2 10 291 https://streetvibesarchive.net/files/original/9dd3f1dce55fa97639f35d11c12a40e1.pdf 2e7e2e9c235a432877dd630d6521f221 PDF Text Text STREET THE TE.'S $1 DONATION A R $1 DONATION BUY FROM B.A D6£D VENDORS ONLY ~vier Ch~rlhf Festiv.:ll i111porls PrDjectC,., 11 pa5~1 0 GREATER CINCINNATI COALJTION F R THE HOMELESS �- - - - - - - - - - - - - APRIL 2001 Ohio Housing Trust Fund Cut Proposed Homeless Think Tank: Continuum of Care Homeless Could Lose Millions in Assistance Homeless and Service Providers Share Insights By Mr. Lee Submitted by COHHIO The Taft Administration is proposing to reduce the overall appropriation for the Housing Trust Fund by $7 .2 mil Hon over the next two years. COHHIO (the Coalition on Homelessness and Housing in Ohio) is recommending an additional $5 million per year of funding for the Housing Trust Fund. COHHIO believes that several reasons indicate the necessity of this increase. Housing Development A~istance Shut Down: Prior to the beginning of this fiscal year, Ohio's Affordable Housing Development Assistance Program was shut down due to the fact that all funds available for the year had already been committed. The extra appropriation of $9 million to the Trust Fund was needed to be able to fund just a portion of the backJog of housing development projects needing assistance. Sharp Increase in Housing Demand: With the tax credit increase, demand will sharply rise in the next two years. Ohio has a real opportunity to expand the supply of affordable housing because Congress approved the first major increase in the Low­ income Housing Tax Credit Program. The 40% increase will be phased in during 2001 and 2002. Investor equity from the Housing Credit' is combined with convenft<5na1 private4financing and 1 funding from the Housing Trust Fund and other sources to construct or preserve affordable rental and lease-purchasing housing opportunities. Affordable Housing Need Outpaces Supply: There is no county in the state where a full time min imu m wage job pays enough to 'afford ahaverage'two­ bedroom apartment. ln fact. Ohio workers must earn al least twice the federal minimum wage, or $I 0.30 per hour, if they are to afford the rent for this same apartment. Housing needs for young potential homeowners, elderly Ohioans, those with special needs and homeless people could also be better addressed with increased funding. Trust Fund, continued page 19 The pizza was good. The dialogue was better. The process was best. Michelle Budzek, coordinator of the Continuum of Care, facilitated this dialogue involving service providers, clients, advocates, homeless and formerly homeless men and women. Mjchelle explained the Continuum of Care and how and by whom services were provided and funded. A continuum of care was defined as a single, coordinat(1d, inclusive homeless assistance system designed by the community to support homeless persons in their movement from h_omelessness to permanent housing and. self-sufficiency. This system looks at the path and processes and asks whether everything is in place so that all homeless persons within a community can move from homelessness to permanent housing and self-sufficiency. Are · there enough shelter, transitional housing and service enriched permanent housing? Is there enough support sE'.rvices for all people - children, families, men, women, the mentally ill, chemical dependent. veterans, persons with AIDS - everyone who is homeless? The Continuum of Care for the Homeless Assistance Program is reaJly three separate governmentfunding programs under the coordination of the department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). The three programs are: Supportive Housing Program (SHP) Shelter Plus Care (S+C) Section 8 Moderate Rehabilitation Program for Single Room Occupancy Dwellings for Homeless Individuals (SRO) The purpose of the Continuum of Care is to fund projects that will FILL IN THE GAPS in a locally developed Continuum of Care system to assist homeless persons move to self-sufficiency and permanent housing. A good Continuum of Care system consists of four basic components: Outreach & Assessment: Work which determines the needs and conditions of individuals and fami lies who are homeless. Emergency Think , continu ed page 18 Mexican Workers Confront KY Company by Dan La Botz Two women workers from the Duro Bag plant in Rio Bravo, Mexico, Margarita Rincon Jimenez and Maria Francisca Orozco, came to Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky on Feb. 26 to confront their employer, demand their rights, and tell their story. The two women, together with scores of other workers at Duro Bag in Rio Bravo had been fired, threatened, and beaten because they attempted to orgaqize a union that. would represent workers in the pJant. p~ro.l3ag, ow~ep ~y tl1e Shqr f~l]'lily,.is based ii} Ludlow, Kentucky. Hosted by Local Union 5-0832 of the Paper, Allied-Industrial, Chemical & Energy Workers (PACE) in Ludlow, spe;aking at a press conference in Ludlow on Feb. 26 the women told of their long fight for the right to organize a union. "We want to put pressure on Duro Bag Co. so they will let us have a free and fairelection," said Rinc~m Jimenez. The workers' tnp to Cincinnati was sponsored by the Coalition for Justice in th.e Maquiladoras (CJM), a 12-year old coalit!on of religious, environmental, and labor organizations fonn Canada, Mexico and the United States ~pich st1pports the right for Margarita Rincon Jimenez, Maria Francisca Orozco ' and Anacela 0 Cassanova march toward the Duro Bag company to protest for the right to orgaillze a union of their own choosing. Photo submitted by Dan La Bot:. workers' right in the maquiladoras which are manufacturing plants · located along the U.S. Mexico bqrder. After explaining at the press conference that Duro Bag had fired workers and threatened to close the plant, and that the company had cooperated with gangsters and the police in having workers beaten and jai!ed, the two, Mexican women led a delegation of some 60. tp 80 Cincinnati labor unioni s,ts, church members, and environmental activists to the Duro B ~g h~adquarter.s in Ludlow. They attempted to speak to management. Duro Bag locked the front door, and employees filed out the back door attempting to avoid both the Mexican women and the press. When the women and their supporters confront Duro Bag executives, requesting a meeting with the women, Workers , continued page 16 �Vendor Profile: Deborah Anderson By Mr. Lee Deborah Renee' Anderson is a vendor who almost always seems to be in a good spirit. She has a positive word and an expression of blessing for ~veryone. Deborah has a sj.111ple lifestyle and dai~y . routine. ·she usually has her hair neatly braided, and her appearance reflects the time spent in carefully applying her make-up as she prepares for her day. Deborah has been a vendor since September 2000. Deborah was born in Cincinnati and grew up in the Walnut Hills area. She has four younger siblings, two brothers and two sisters. Deborah speaks freely about her happy childhood, and her attendance of Withrow High School. She shares her experience of being a happy carefree and popular student She also speaks about hanging around the wrong crowd. This led to unhealthy childhood diversion of drinking, smoking, "skip parties" and experimenting with drugs. Deborah Anderson flashes a grin for her vendor badge photo. from the Streetvibc s archives She shares that as a teenager she had acid slipped into a drink, which had a long lasting and negative affect upon her life. She honestly states that she has had mental and physical health · problems that have cause her to be hospitalized more than once beginning at the age of 16. Deborah regularly attends and enjoys the services at City Gospel Mission. Deborah shares that she is "getting her act together" and is happy to have God in her life. She expresses a de,sire to learn to operate the computer and to maybe return to work some day. She exudes and attitude of gratitude for the people who support her in her life and says she loves to seIJ Streetvibes ! Deborah may not have much materially, but she is grateful for what God has blessed her with and finds joy in her life in spite of her hardships. Deborah is a real person. Her life has at times been a "rough stretch of road". Some days are better than others but she remains ·grateful for her blessings. Many might not see the courage and heart this woman possesses. God bless you Deborah Renee Anderson! Vendor Profile: Earlene Moreland and Grady Cook Writers Dan Marschner Ron Carter Dan La Botz Susan K:nigh Mr. Lee Deborah Locke Blaine Reynolds Don Allen, JR. Staughton Lynd Warren Perkins Dawyna femandsen Paul Lawrence.Dunbar Antliony Watkins _Streetvib-es accepts letters1 poems, -storieS", e~says, original graphics, j>hot9s.... We will,:ptint evpcy­ tbing we tlave room for. giVing preference to those wbQ ~ homeless,or vendo~. &d>scriptions to Streetvibes can bt purQhased for $15 per~ year. 'i/o (!rea~r Cindnnati Coalition - for the H~ (GCCH) 1506 Elm Street Cindnaati, OH 45210 (513) 421-7803 faX! (5J3) 421-7813; e-mail: streetvibes@juno.com or homeci>al@primax.net web page: http://cinci.com/gcch by Ron Carter Two of our best Streetvibes vendors, Earlene and Grady, are celebrating their fourth anniversary. They are very dedicated to the paper and have contributed a lot of their time getting the word out about homelessness. We have received a lot of very positive comments from our readers about Grady and Earlene. I call them Bonnie & Clyde because they are always busy passing the word to the fo1tunate to help the unfortunate. Grady and Earlene contribute great ideas for the paper, and their dedication is wonderful. They want to thank all those who have supported them and the paper over the past four years. ~ Earlene Moreland, Grady Cook a n d one of Cincinnati 's mounted police outside of M u sic Hall. from the Streetvibes archi ves Streetvibes Vendor Code Each vendor has to sign the following code to be able to sell the paper. 1. Streetvibes will be distributed for a $1 volun­ tary donation. I agree not to ask for dona­ tions more than $1. I also understand that I will be able to keep 80 cents of each dollar . collected. Future issues of Streetvibes will be purchased from the Homeless Coalition for 20 cents. 2. I agree that I will never distribute Streetvibes while under the influence of drugs or alco­ hol. 3. I agree that I will not ask for donations after 12 midnight. 4. I agree to treat others with respect. I will not use abusive language or force someone to give a donation. I will not give a "hard sell" or make someone feel threatened. 5. I agree that I will not supply copies of Streetvibes to persons who are not regis­ 6. 7. 8. 9. tered distributors. I agree not to deceive the public by saying that I am collecting for a not-for-profit charity or that I am collecting for the "homeless" in general. I will be honest in stating that all the profits from the sale of Streetvibes will go to the individual vendor. I agree that I will not contest territories with other distributors. I understand that Streetvibes strives to be a self-supporting paper created by people who are homeless or formerly homeless. To help in this effort, I will try to spread the word and write stories if possible. I understand that failure to comply with any of the above statements will result in me no longer being able to distribute Streetvibes. �LOCAL NEWS STREETVIBES Page 3 Grant Helps Obtain Medical Coverage Provider of the Month: Andy Hutzel Submitted by Legal Aid Laura Salter spoke publicly· last November about leaving the welfare system in 1995 for several temporary jobs. For more than · two years, she lived without health insurance, despite lifelong problems from childhood rheumatic fever. After a heart attack required open-heart surgery, she was unable to work. With $10,000 in medical debt, she had to file for personal bankruptcy. "I was uninsured for two years," Salter stated. "It ruined my health, and it ruined my credit record. I was one of the 44 million Americans who do not have health insurance. I hope you figure out a way to bridge the gap for the uninsured." The Legal Aid Society of Greater Cincinnati is responding to Salter 's plea. Thanks to a $235,000 grant from _the Health Foundation of Greater Cincinnati, Legal Aid has launched a threeyear Health Access Ad\'.ocacy Project. According to Senior Attorney Trey Daly, the Health Access Advocacy Project win offer community education, advocacy and individual reP,resentation .. "We...wilJ give healthcare providers and social service providers ' general training," he says. "'We will also work directly with particular providers (such as hospitals) to train their staff." In the new year, Daly says, "We're off and running. We've always done a lot of training in the community on Medicaid issues. Now we'll .do more directly with the provider community." The Stat~ of Ohio is restoring Medicaid, coverage to thousands of people who lost it when they stopped receiving welfare payments. "The idea was that, when they stopped getfing cash, they were still supposed to be able to get medical coverage, but that didn't happen," Daly explains. After lengthy negotiations, an agreement has been reached to send out a three-month Medicaid card for immediate needs. "People will also be allowed to re-apply for (ongoing) Medicaid in a streamlined fashion," Daly adds. The Health Access Advocacy Project will reinforce this process by working with the Ohio Hospital Association to let healthcare providers know about the reinstatement and explain processes for obtaining payment of unpaid bills incurred by people who sh~uld have been eligible for Medicaid. Tens of thousands of G;.incinnati residen.ts will 'be affected by this initiative. "We're delivering' services in a new way, focusing on community ~ducation." Legal Aid's website will_give people more information . at>o.utacce$s tO'.'pealthcare'. _ - . , ... "There's a crisis in access to healthcare," Daly says. "Thi.s is Legal Aid's effort to respond to that crisis. Working collaboratively with the healthcare provider community and public medical problems, we think we can make a real impact." Drop Inn Center's Administrative Coordinator By Dan Marschner on a broader community level. He thinks that the DIC has reached a relative limit on new programs and facilities, and fundi~g for .P.rojects should be more difficult to obtain with the Bush administration. Andy says, "The problem doesn't seem to change, but the government solutions seem to change rapidly. Everyone seems Andy Hutzel has never been homelessness personally, but he has spent the last seven years helping to hold the Drop Inn Center together. He started as a bookkeeper after his graduation from Xavier University in May 1994, and began to assume more . . Bonnie Neumeier, Andy H utzel a nd Ginny Frazier take a mom.e nt to rel ax. photo submitted by Andy Hutzel responsibilities after Pat Clifford left the Drop Inn Center to direct the Greater Cincinnati Coalition for' ilie'Hdme less in 1995. He' became an official employee after being a ReSTOC intern and volunteering at the DIC. Andy says that the best part of working at the Drop Inn Center is the "diverse community working together toward a common goal." He says the most rewarding aspect --------------------------~ ~~wmkisfucli~li~be~ IMPACT Over-the-Rhine Family Freedom Gardens This community service project provides compact, raised bed gardens to inner city families. This opportunity encourages sustainability and independence for families to grow fresh, nutritious vegetables in their own yard. IMPACT Over-the-Rhine provides design consultation, all materials (timber, soil, seeds and bedding plants), installation.and follow-up support Over-the-Rhine Families provide yard space, a desire for fresh, "'sty vcg~bla, and nurturing care. This is a community enrichm.en~ program available at no cost. Only Over-the-~hine residents ar- eligible to .apply. making an impact. Andy greatly enjoys the leadership structure of the DIC: "As big as we are, I think that we do a good job to maintain our grassroots support." He says the greatest challenge of the DIC is weighing the need for institutional structure with their desire to have input from all levels. Out of more than 40 employees, only four have college degrees. Andy finds the diversity of the staff to be a major asset. He says that his biggest personal challenge is to know people at·the DIC without losing himself in the details of his work. Andy also believes that it is difficult to see long term changes to have a new solution." Andy feels th~t his greatest str.e!.1gtq~~F.~tRitl~~~c~:,p~.JiMf,,111?~ skills, and his persistence. He believes that "the white middle class need to understand how to leaq1 within other cultures. Most people are afraid to 4o that or don't have the desire." Andy believes that the greatest accomplishment that has occurred at the DIC during his tenure is "buddy's place." The leadershi.p of the DIC worked incredibly hard to overcome long odds to raise the tremendous amounts of money. In the process, they earned the credibility needed after Buddy Gray's tragic demise. Andy believes that Buddy lives through the staff at the DIC. "He empowered people to come out of homelessness, and many of those people continue to be staff . members after 15 or 20 years." Andy provides an inspirational example to those who choose to follow their hearts and work for change. To nominate someone for provider ofthe month, contact Streetvibes at 421-7803. For an application please contact: , Eco-d•r.~en ~oordinator Impact_Over the RMllc I t 1718 Pleasan~ Str~;;~. Cincinnati, Ohio 45!1' (513) 141-8924 ,, (513) 141..5564 Fu ,.I ~ • DISC .JOCKEY SE l~VlCE Cli.f.ford Jones ::::;!• (513) 761-3464 Office (5 13) .230- 635 3 t f1tt.'o0 \ .ne e-_r?>ail: jonesaC:V • w""'w Voicemail ·C'~ ~~I) ~ticxchange· cP �- ' STREETVIBES LOCAL NEWS : Page 4 . Xavier Raises Awareness About Homelessness By Dan Marschner - Shantytown 2001 was a week­ long program to educate Xavier University students and the general public about homelessness. Shantytown involved speakers and opportunities for community service, and perhaps its most enduring symbol is the cardboard houses constructed by Xavier student groups. Unlike in years past, the shantys did not house students braving the elements while sleeping outside. Rather, the dwelbngs became billboards for infonnation about homelessness. The statistics indicated on the shanties provided a grim reality about the pervasiveness of homelessness. Their flimsy construction helped depict the pathetic living conditions of many homeless people. The speakers in Shantytown addressed several different issues including domestic violence, homeless children, international homelessness, and affordable housing. The speakers ranged from Cincinnati City Council members to residents of the Drop Inn Shelter. Students who attended also had the opportunity to eat in a simulated soup kitchen. The week ended with an opportunity for community service through Community Action Day Xavier students went to sites throughout the city to work with an. agency for a few hours. Community Action Day allowed students to put the knowledge gleaned from Shantytown into practice. Shantytown was an important educational tool to make Xavier students and the Sllt"fOunding community more aware of the reality of homelessness in Cincinnati and worldwide. Streetvibes salutes their efforts in the battle against homelessness. Rachael Napolitano, one of Sha ntytown' s student coordin ators, next to a shanty. photo by D an M arsch ne r Are you looking for the opportunity to have a positive impact in the lives of homeless people with mental illness? CR! and Tender Mercies are teaming up to provide outreach and referral services to the homeless, mentally ill population in.Hamilton County. This is a program funded by a PATH grant that seeks to break new ground in servicing this population. OUTREACH WORKER RESPONSIBILITIES ..,._ Seek out and assist persons who are homeless and mentally ill by providing community outreach, assessment. and linkage to appropriate services. Position involves making one on one contacts with homeless persons as well as maintaining communication and collaboration with other service agencies 1n order to identify potential PATH Project participants and coordinate service provision. Connect individuals to services aimed at addressing mental health issues as well as basic needs. Submit reports and service documentation. Minimum of 2 years education/ experience required. Must possess good written and oral communication skills and commitment to aiding an at risk population. Must be able to work a flexible schedule. Must be a licensed, insurable driver and provide own vehicle for transp01tation within two months of employment. Excellent salary and benefit package. Send resume to: Tender Mercies Attn: HR-PATH Outrea0h 21 w~ 12th Cinti, OH 45210 · FAX (513) 977-5328 equal opportunity employer �STREETVIBES Reprinted from the Family Services Report Congress should renew supplemental grants to 17 states deemed worthy of additional help under the Temporary Assistance for Needy Families program, says Wendell Primus, director of Income Security at the Center on Budget & Polity Priorities. Those grants expire this year, even though TANF itself is not due for reauthorization until 2002. Even with such help, poorer states receive $733 in TANF funds per poor child, compared to $1,773 received by the other states, Primus tells the House Budget Committee. Not really supplemental The term "supplemental" is a WELFARE NEWS Page 5 Grants to be Renewed misnomer, Primus says. In reality, the I:>errants are an attempt to correct reauthorization rather than treated as new spending, Primus says. In his testimony, Primus criticizes the 1996 welfare-reform law. _ Even though the proportion of single mothers in the workforce has jumped from one-third to one­ half since 1992, he notes, the poorest fifth of this group had 4% less to spend after meeting basic needs in 1999, compared to 1995, even though their earnings increased. In addition, 700,000 families have significantly less income in 1999 than their counterparts in 1995, he says. Figures for young black males in the labor force between are another source of concern, Primus says. Between 1993 and 1999, their rate of participation dropped by 6 percentage points, he says. For more information, contact: Primus, Center for Budget & Policy Priorities, (202) 408­ 1080,www.cbpp.org the historical disparities between the states in welfare spending, beyond any difference in the cost of living. As such, the additional sums should be folded into the baseline fundin g for the purpose of TANF States Using Welfare Funds For Unrelated Fiscal Burdens Reprinted from the Family Services Report To get their block grants under the Temporary Assistance for Needy Families program, there are two ways states can try to dodge a requirement they spend 75% of what they spent on welfare in fiscal 1994. One involves counting money spent on programs not in the 1994 baseline toward the "maintenance­ of-effort" requirement. The other involves using TANF dollars for unapproved purposes. The Health & Human Services Dept. does its best to prevent such cost-shifting, but the problem remains, says the National Campaign for Jobs & Income Support. In Virginia, for example, Gov. Gilmore sought to use TANF funds for make up for a cut in the car tax, the campaign says. Other states flouting the rules include Connecticut, Oregon, Texas and Wisconsin, the campaign says, while a Michigan plan to use TANF to offset a property-tax cut for low-income families led HHS to prohibit such uses unless people got back more than they paid in taxes. States have failed to spend $8 biJiion in TANF dollars as of Sept. 30,2000, the campaign says. For more information, consult www.nationalcampaign.org. LEGAL SUPPORT NEEDED!! During the TABD protests, November 17-19, 2000, 53 arrests were made, hundreds more were searched illegally, and still others were beaten or gassed by the Cincinnati police force. CONCERNS REGARDING: ILLEGAL SEARCHES IN ORDERTOSETFOOTONFOUNTAINSQUARE­ PUBLIC PROPERTY, ILLEGAL ARRESTS AND POLICE BRUTALITY, ALL MUST BE ADDRESSED! $15,000 FOR LEGAL EXPENSES Expenses include all legal fees/counsel Checks can be made payable to: N16 Legal, c/o Molly Mail to: P.O. BOX 3415, Cincinnati, Ohio 45201-3415 Updates can be found at CHE-2000.org Or please call 513-929-4102 Nobel Peace Prize Nominees speak out against sanctions against Iraq. Kathy Kelley of Chicago, cofounder of Voices in the Wilderness, was nominated in 2000. Ms. Kelley spoke as part of a panel at the Cincinnati Mennonite Fellowship (1301 E. McMillan). Berta Lambert walked across the United States in 1986 as a member of the ?reat . Peace March for Global Nuclear Disarmament that was nommated m 1987. For nearly a decade he has been a regular protestor at the Cincinnati Federal Building, opposing U.S. policy toward Iraq. photo submitted by Berta Lambert STREETVIBES TELEVISION Streetvibes TV 1s produced Live, the Second Tuesday of each month, 7 - 8 PM, at Media Bridges, 2114 Reading Road, Cincinnati Ohio. If you would like to participate in making an episode of Streetvibes TV, please call us at 421-7803. April Schedule Re-Broadcast Dates for April's Show on Channel 24: (Please check your schedule) Tuesday, April 2, at 9 AM Friday, April 13, at 5. PM Saturday, April 21, at 9 PM Tuesday, April 24 at 9 PM Friday, April 27, at 5 PM Broadcast schedules are subject to change ­ Consult your local TV directory. �School: Homeless Kids Bridge to Survival By Deborah Locke From Pioneer Planet What is it 1ike to be a homeless child? Two sisters - Tina, 8, and Marcie, 9 (not their real names) ­ sat on the lap of or near their mother as I asked them questions and strived to get to know them. Neither girl was shy, not in the least. It wasn't hard to detect signs of sibling rivalry. Each wore cotton pants and an olive-colored t-shirt. You could imagine them wearing .those clothes outside the State Fair in August, but not on a cold December day. Tina is in the third grade; Marcie, in the fourth. When they were serious and tried to honestly answer questions, they sometimes soullded wise beyond their years. The two homeless sisters transferred to a Minneapolis elementary school from the suburb where the family was evicted from an apartment. Before eviction, they lived in a hotel. They've been in a homeless shelter for two mo nths. That's where we talked . Marcie and Tina are undergoing adjustments in their new surroundings. Other kids J o, (1 1 f, 1f' I'• make fun of them, because tney are new·at school, said Marcie, "They tell jokes about me all the time. They kinda made fun of me when .I lived in the hotel. They made fun of my clothes." To children who are homeless, school provides the greatest stability in their lives. For some of the luckier homeless kids, adults go to great lengths to ensure that a child can stay in his or her school after a family moves. For example, one child whose fam ily moved to a Minnetoka ho meless shelter still attends his Minneapolis Phillips ne ighborhood school. He begged to stay there . His bus fare is p aid from a private donation fu nd the school principal set up. In St. Paul, an I l-year-old homeless girl sobbed after several teachers quizzed her about waiting outside her school before it opened. The van from the suburban shelter drops her off almost an hour before the school doors open. She has nowhere to wait but at the front door, but she's adamant about wanting to stay in that school. As of September 2000, 361 children ages 5 to 10 received services for homeless children throughout the St. Paul School District, according to Ellie Seifert, coordinator of the Title One program for homeless children. The program has served 391 children in, the 11 to 18 age range. T he tot~i is ~n\be con~ervative side because homeless families are not always identified and because the total excludes the older children. In Minneapolis, from June 1999 to May 2000, some 3,076 children in grades kindergarten through 12 were horn~less. The number has hovered around 3,000 for the past three years, according to Bill Price, director of the homeless/ Title I program in that city. More than 1,700 of the Minneapolis children are in grades ki ndergarten through grade 4, or age 5 through 9. The 1i ght mix of teachers, social workers, principal, peers, pol icies and tutors can and do form a foundation of stability that permits a child to whether homelessness. In the lives of these children, the only setting that remains constant in their lives is the school. The only people who remain constant are the faculty and staff at the school. That's why the St. Paul School District's Tit le I Program paid $ 17 ,000 in bus tokens this year so homeless children can stay in their own schools. Transportation consistently provides the greatest challenges to people who are homeless, Seifert said. Getting to schoql is just the start of serving these kids well, however. Smaller gestures count, said Ann Masten, a University of Minnesota professor who has studied homelessness and resiliency in children for more than a decade. A school nurse could discretely provide a homeless child with hygiene products including a toothbrush. Quietly, metropolitan teachers continually pay for these products from their own salaries. They ask for school supplies and clothing donations from fa mily and friends because it's critical that a homeless child look like the other children. "I've been a principal, and know that if a child is ho meless, you guard that information," Bill Price said. "When kids get hold of that information, they will be mean to the ho meless kids." Some teachers never learn that the child is homeless, partly because the stay in a shelter is brief. Many, however, know that their students live in a car or a shelter, that the children's dads are in j ail , that their moms are in drug rehab most of the time and that kids get shuffled around. Younger children, especially, will confide in a teache1; when h e me life is exchanged for shelter survival. The obvious solution is stable housing. But even with that, one working parent known to Price works two jobs to pay the steep Bridge , c ontinue d page 19 High Court Kills Ban on Legal-Aid Welfare Cases From the Family Services Report The Supreme Court struck down a rule preventing attorneys at agencies funded by the Legal Services Corporation from challenging welfare laws, but supporters of the LSC say the action may reopen debate on whether tbe corporation deserves continued funding. "The fight will shift over to Congress," said Donald Saunders, director of civil legal services at the National Legal Aid and Defender Association. In his budget outline, President Bush requests $329 million for the LSC. Current funding is $220 million minus a multi-agency 0.22 percent across-the-board cut. Although the LSC has fought off attempts to kill it, the price of survival has been a host of ADYIRTISI IM STlllTVlllS restnct1ons, the rest of which the Supr~me Court let stand b~ refusmg to hear an appeal m a related case. . . . Th.e restnc~1ons, adopted m . 1~96, mclude ba~s on representmg pnsoners or certam classes of immi~rants, on filing cl~ss-action ~awsmts and o~ ~tte~ptmg to mfluence admm1strat1ve rules. In addition, the LSC-funded agencies may not lobby or participate in abortion-related cases. In practice, the rule struck down by tbe court prevented attorneys at LSC-funded agencies from arguing state welfare laws violated federal law or that a welfare law, state or federal, violated the U.S. Constitution. Attorneys for the LSC and the Justice Department said the ban was no more restrictive than a law prohibiting doctors at federally funded family-planning clinics from discussing abortion with their patients, which the Supreme Court upheld in Rust v. Sullivan. Writing for the majority, Justice Kennedy says the LSC ban is different. "An LSC attorney speaks on behalf of a private, indigent client in a welfare-benefits claim while the government,s message '.is delivered by the attorney defending the benefits division," he writes. Of little practical impact The decision is a victory for welfare recipients, but don' t expect a lot of new lawsuits on their behalf, says Alan Houseman, director of the Center for Law & Social Policy. '1 don' t think it has any Business Card.Size s1gmf1cant impact on welfare refo.rm,," he says. "The practical reality 1s most c~allenge~ are .not ~ade on th~ basis of an mvalid . . higher l~w. David Udell, drrector of the poverty program at the Brennan Center for Justice at the New York University School of Law, which brought the case on behalf of a woman named Carmen Velazquez, says the decision is significant even if it doesn't lead to more lawsuits. Lawyers at LSC-funded agenci~s can now "have conversations with judges and colleagues without fear of running afoul of the problem," he says. "In the long run, Jess injustice will result." Henry Freedman, director of the Welfare Law Center in New York, agrees, calling tbe decision a "major victory." Two Business Card Size 4 x 3 1/2 2 3 1/2 ~~ $15 per montf:I . ~ $30 per month Send your add copy to Streetvibes, 1506 Elm Street,Cinti, 45210 , homecoal@primax.net , or call 421 -7803. 11 11 11 ){ (Larger Adds Also Available) 11 �STREETVIBES RECOVERY NEWS Page 7 Recovery News Mission The Recovery News page will focus primarily on recovery issues that most impact the homeless: recovery from chemical dependency. mental illness. all forms of spiritual illness and of course recovery from homelessness. It is the editorial staffs' hope that the Recovery page will appeal to a broad based constituency and will attract contributions from those who are in recovery as \veil as those whose lives have been affected by their own as well as others struggles with these issues. The recovery news will be about the good and bad: faith and faithlessness: hope and hopelessness: problems and solutions. It is our vision that contributions to the recovery page will come from many walls of life. Submissions from the secular and non-secular recovery community are welcome. Announcements. meetings. programs. etc. related to recovery or the issues that the homeless are struggling with in the identified areas are welcome. Recovery: The Good, the Bad and the Ugly By Blaine Reynolds the religious life and the spiritual life advocated in any l 2 step program. They are convinced by In the addiction community, their own experience and that of there are basically three classes or thousands who came before them, types of alcoholic/addicts. I sort that using any kind of mood of classify them as the recovering(good), struggling(bad), altering chemicals will result in devastation to their lives and and suffering(ugly). eventually lead to jails, institutions The recovering (good) addict and death. The recovering works a 12 step program of alcoholic and/or addict has found recovery and/or is involved in church and as best he can, lives his that only by working a daily program of spiritual maintenance life on spiritual princip1es. These can they begin and continue to men and women follow a daily lead a productive and reasonably plan of spiritual maintenance to happy life. Only by total stay clean and sober and to abstinence from drugs and alcohol progress in recovery. Failure to follow this plan of action will lead is this possible. They have them back to drinking and/or using admitted defeat .a nd surrendered drugs. Most learn this simple plan their life and will to a Higher Power to help keep them sober. If in a treatment program or in a 12 they don't stay focused on step recovery program, and they execute the plan. Thjs simple plan themselves and their problem, it will only lead back tp drinking or is ( l) don' t pick-up any drink or ' ' using drugs. · ' · ' ' drug, (2) read the Big Book/Basic The struggling (bad) alcohoiic/ Text, (3) go to support meetings on addict is successful for a some a regular basis and (4) obtain and period of time in his or her work with a sponsor (who will recovery. Then for some reason, guide him/her through the "steps"). usually unknown ~o them, chooses Many get into a formal on to drink, or drug. They may stay informal relationship with some sober for a period of time, but church body. For the person truly repeat this cycle of relapse, trying to live his life on a spiritual institutions, and jails until basis, there is no conflict between ultimately they either get into long term recovery or they die. While permanent or long term sobriety eludes them, there their life is extended by the fact that for whatever period of time he/she is no longer killing themselves. They know how to stay clean and sober but are reach some stuck point that requires a different level of working the 12-step program. Possibly they are constitutionally incapable of being honest with themselves. For various reasons they stop practicing the simple program of recovery. They stop living by spiritual principles or stop growing. They give nothing back. They continue to be selfish and self-centered. They fail to enlarge upon their spiritual lives. They fall. If they are fortunate, they make it back. They forget to talk to others in the program whkh is wnere they get tfieir experience, strength and_hope. They are not willing to work with others and willing do the things that kept them from using drugs. When you don't keep practicing the things you know are a solution to your problems you go b41ck to that destructive behavior. Now there is the suffering (ugly) addict. They are in complete denial of their problem · of addiction, regardless of their circumstances. They believe something is wrong with others, but js not the drugs or alcohol; they believe that a better job or break in life and everything will be better. Until they admit that they have a problem they will not change and they will continue to use drugs. They are the hopeless and helpless types: they live in a world of shame, g uilt and remorse; their only relief is to use drugs and alcohol. They rely on their own self-will and self-knowl ~dge to stay clean and sober. They live in the problem instead of the solution. They live in a world of self-delusion not knowing the truth from the lie. The only thing in their future is jail, institution and inevi ~bly ...death. , 'frie"oilly thing that sephrates . them all is a drink or drug. Every one has the chance if they have the desire, willingness and are honest with themselves. Only God knows who will succeed and who will fail. You stay clean and sober if you follow the plan of action. It's not complicated, but for most it is hard. The Power of Recovery of the individuals who are currently using alcohol and drugs would lead us to believe. It is designed to help individuals develop the tools and skills they need to remain sober. The desire of every family member of an alcoholic, drug addict, and even addicted individuals themselves is that they would JUST NOT USE. That is a tall order when an individual has become consumed by the behaviors, feelings and lifestyle of the alcohol and drugs · that have taken control of their life. By Don Allen, Jr. . Counselor, Center for Chemical. Addictions Treatment I sat in my office today and talked with a volunteer that had just completed teaching a morning lecture on the "Effects of Alcoholism/Drugs, and the Benefits of Remaining Sobq.,','_ IJ~ shared with me. again his wonderful story of completing treatment at the Center for Chemical Addiction Treatment <;::enter (CCAT) in Cincinnati, Ohio where he now volunteers when not attending classes at a local college working on his Bachelor of Social Wo rk. He has given me the privilege of being his mentor as he works toward credentials and a career in the substance abuse counseli ng field. Kevin 's story is not unique: there have been hundreds of li ves that have come through our treatment program and many other programs like it that have found recovery and not looked back. We shared about the excitement of staying sober, and the wonders of what the future holds. There is no doubt in Kevin's mind tl1at he can make it in this lifetime challenge called recovery if he will keep his focu s on God,' the twel~e s~eps·> and the valuable principles that he has learnqd while in treatment. Kevin believes that the hardest pa.rt of recovery is helpi,ng the non­ addict or individual that has never used alcohol or drugs to understand what is important. To help them understand what must be happening in the life of the i ndividu ~l in recovery·from a life­ controlling problem, and how we who have never used can help them in this challenge. Treatment is not designed as punishment as some of the professional community and some Kevin stated three very important truths that are cri tical for recovery. "The focus on God is a foundation for recovery ; r was taught in Bible College where I received my education as a counselor that.there is a difference between religion and a relationship. Religion is man's attempt to get to God; relationship is loving and personal relationship with God," The twelve steps . encourage an individual to find 8: Recovery, continued page 19 ' . . buddy's place Permanent Housing for formerly homeless individuals at 1300 Vine Street. For more information, call Connie Martina orAgnes Mack at (513) 784,0800 �PRISONERS' NEWS STREETVIBES Page a . Death R9w Case Raises Re~sonable DoubtS'fi By Staughton Lynd On March 14, 1994, John Byrd Jr. came within hours of'execution before federal court issued a stay. Byrd ha'J1b'~~~ ~n Death Row in Ohio f~r e,ighteen years. Now he faces execution in Spring 2001. Unlike a number of highly publicized death row cases involving new DNA evidence, /• DNA evidence isn't relevant in Byrd's cak~. But tlie absence of DNA material in death row cases, including this one, doesn '.t . necessarily mean that the~e aren't prisoners being wrongly convicted and sentenced to deatti. Sometimes guilt or innocence depends on the testimony of a single prisoner informant, who may be rewarded by the prosecution for his testimony with a reduced charge or a letter to the parole board._ These are the essential facts: Byrd was arrested with two co­ defendants for the robbery of a convenience store near Cincinnati and the stabbing of store clerk Monte Tewksbury on April 17, 1983. Byrd was the only one of the three to receive the death penalty. T,he victim, , .before his death, , was able to tell his wife that only two masked men had come into the store. Bloodstains on Byrd's clothing were inconclusive. A footprint on . the counter of the store was conceded to be th~t of John Brewer, a co-defendant. The murd~r weapon could not be found. When arrested, Byrd had very little money in his possession, whereas Brewer and the third accomplice had large quantities of cash . . The state obtained Byrd's ,. conviction on the basis of r ,. · testimony by prisoner Ronald ,,. Armstead µiat, three weeks after ·the crime, Byrd supposedly confess~d the murder to Armstead while the two of them watched a TV program about the Tewksbury family. Byrd's case dramatizes the problem of the jailhouse "snitch". Armstead .was presented to the jury as a man who had nothing to gain by testifying; he was merely moved by conscience. However, at the time of Byrd's trial Armstead had a pending parole violation and faced the possibility of three to fifteen years in prison. Neither the prosecutor nor Armstead disclosed this fact to the jury. The jury had no way of knowing that after Byrd's trial and conviction, the Cincinnati prosecutor's office would reverse its previous opposition to Armstead's parole, and Armstead would be set free. The record contains affidavits from men who were in the County s Writing is a prison,e r best means ofcommuni<;ation to the outside world. The typewriter is a forceful weapon against the injustices ofthe prison system. One prison has severely limited the number oftypewriter ribbons available to prisoners each month. This action effectively acts to quiet the voice of inmates. For people who want the prison at SCI-Dallas to reverse the very restrictive rules on typewriters and ribbons, petition: Deput~ Superint~ndent Thomas Lavan SCI-Dallas 1000' Follies Road Dallas, PA 18612­ Workhouse with By.u:l.iit and Armsted. , One . . ,i 11 states that "it was ·., · ;· , known by everyone in. A-block that Armstead ... and others were out to get Byrd to get themselves some play on their cases." A three-judge panel of the Sixth Circ,uit·Court of Appeals affirmed Byrd's conviction and sentence. Judge Nathaniel J©nes pa$sionately dissented, citing wh~t he tem1ed " unpardonable constitutional improprieties present in this record." Byrd asked the entire Sixth Circuit Court of Appeals to review the panel's 2-1 decision. Six judges voted to hear the case, five not to hear it. Because two judges abstained, the motion was denied. In January 2001, Byrd's final appeal to the Supreme Court of the United States was denied also. Nothing remained but for the Supreme Court of Ohio to set an execution date. Then, the Public Defender filed a motion for new trial with the Ohio Supreme Court. Attached to the motion were two affidavits by co-defendant John Brewer, one · dated May 1989, the second dated January 200 l. In both affidavits, Brewer states under oath that it was he, not Byrd, who stabbed and killed Monte Tewksbury. Byrd was notin the store, Brewer says, but SO' intoxicated that he could barely stand. Brewer makes it clear what it may' cbst him to come forward: "I afu'ellgible for parole ifr1015 and realize that I have a lot to lose by signing this affidavit." The prospect of executing people for crimes they did not commit has prompted state legislatures across the country to introduce bills to halt executions. The governor of Illinois declared a moratorium on executions, and a bill to prohibit state executions was passed by the Nebraska legislature last year. To stay the execution of John Byrd does not require a belief in his innocence. Tliat is not the test. The test is whether he is guilty beyond a reasonable doubt. If John Byrd is executed, it will be because of the testimony of one witness who had a lot to gain (Armstead) is credited over that of another (Brewer) who bas a lot to lose. Knowing this - as the jury at John Byrd's trial did not - how can the Ohio Supreme Court, or Governor Taft, or you and I, not have a reasonable doubt? Attention Prisoners Those who want to join the class action law­ suit against the supermax prison, Youngstown, ~onta~t: Staughton & Alice Lind 1694Timbers Court Niles, Ohio 44446 or for more information call (513) 241-8014 collect Prisoners News contains news about the justice system and the writings of persons incarcerated in our nation's jails and prisons. Subscribers withinthe walls receive Streetvibes free. If you want to support us in this effort, please sponsor someone on the inside by sending us $15 for a year's subscription Send your comments and questions to streetvibes@juno.com mail : STREETVIBES, 1506 Elm Street Cincinnati, Ohio 45210 �STREETVIBES PRISONERS' NEWS Page g Selective Security Results in Second Successful Suicide By Dawnya Ferdinandsen. were left loc~ed in with no the light at the end of this dark tunnel I am lost in!" Her heart answers and no one to talk to us or broken, her pride crushed by the calm the women crying because continuol!S humiliation endured they knew someone had just died. everyday for the last 10 years of :&s we went to get our food we her life, dignity stripped away like heard bits of what was going on leaves falling from a tree preparing from other inmates already at itself for a cruel winter. In her C.F.S. Upon returning back to our mind I am sure she asked "Why? cottage we were also told "Ladies, Why should I keep going?" The you need to think about what you system again failed to help another are going to do next year, not lost soul. worry about what's going on out here." At this same time none of us We were the only cottage where aware that Monica had left placed on lock down for the several letters in her cell and was about to end her life here in our remainder of the night. By 8:00 cottage. After we came back from a.m. of 1-1-01, the women of JG lunch, around 1:20 p.m., we were hysterical! We were angry simply paid no attention ·to and confused. We asked why no . whether or not Monica had left our one came to our rooms to check on cottage. While we were watching any of us except for count time? This type of unprofessional T. V., playing cards, ironing, and treatment is very common here. just talking, Monica was 10 feet away all alone in a walk in closet Locking down is the answer to ending her life! At 4:00 p.m., the everything! Around 12:30 p.m., phone rang. It was H-1 's second 24 hours after Monica entered our shift officer; be informed our cottage, the institution decided to On December 31, 2000, approximately six months after the sad and successful suicide of 20­ year~old Carol Ann Bell, yet another successful suicidal death of a 41-year-old lady named Mary (Monica) Acree happened. Monica was a lifer here at the Ohio Reformatory for Women who had served approximately to years of her 15 to life sentence and had only 2 years left until her first board. Monica was said to have made the comment that she could not bear the thought of the board issuing her a cold-hearted, flat, 10­ year flop, after,she would have given them more than 14 years. This left her feeling helpless, as it did Carol Ann Bell, and all w.omen facing the same. Monica was a small woman but had so rriuch to give! Even though Monica was meek and slightly withdrawn, she would always step right up to help others! In prison, we are constantly reminded we made a She tutored those ladies less fortunate to be as educationally mistake somewhere in our lives and I 'm sure that inclined as she was. She was the very people reminding us have some willing to help anyone who may have needed her, single-handedly skeletons in their closet. doing what the system could have send a psych to JG to see if anyone second shift officer that he was cared less about! was upset. At this time we were missing Monica Acree. He said Monica was best remembered told no one else's cottage was she signed out at 12:25 p.m. and by most of us here as the "Card locked down and the psych was was not signed back in. Our Lady". She volunteered her time under the impression that Monica officer informed him no one was in to sell cards to population for her lived in our cottage. The psych hjs cottage; everyone was locked lifer group. She would pull her also informed us that H-1 inmates in their rooms for count, but he cart from her living area in H-1 to promised to look. He then went in were consoled that night; however, our living area (JG). It was not she took her life in our cottage. So the old Literacy room to check a unusual to see her in our cottage. I guess O.R.W. must have felt that door that leads outside. When he So on 12-31-00, while we all the suicide would not affect us waiteq in our rec room to be called went to tum from the door he because she did not live here! noticed the closet door cracked. for lunch, we thought nothing of At this time we learned that He went to shut it, noticed it was Monica coming into our cottage. Monjca arrived in our cottage (JG) heavy, and then he looked and saw Monica had hung for at least 2 hours before she was found. We around 12:30 that day. She signed Monica. He immediately pressed learned of the suicide notes. We his man down button. The next in and went straight to the room thing we knew, yard patrol came, also learned that no one learned a formerly used as the Literacy damn thing from the senseless office, but had been changed to our then the squad, then the coroner, State Highway Patrol, Chaplain death of Carol Ann Bell! ice machine room and where Bing and several others. At It was said Monica's body was lifer 's put their puzzles and games still warm when they found her. around 6:00 p.m. we watched the for population in a walk-in closet This was not true! Instantly the coroner bring Monica's lifeless that sits in an alcove off the actual attempt to cover up the real started. room. She must have then opened body out our front in a body bag The staff seemed to be saying, and placed her in the coroner's the combination lock to open the "Let's just lie, it is only an inmate, squad. door to the walk-in closet and 2 down, 1,800 to go. After all, At the time we were informed walked in, looked around thinking who will care? No one hears their we were on lock-down. Not one "I can't go on like this, where is cries for help, so we can say of the staff would talk to us. All whatever we want to say - no one we knew was a body had been taken from will challenge it!" First shift said our cottage. We did PENPAL WANTED second shift was negligent and not know if it was a dear friend or Siddique Abdullah staff and we never imagined it was vice versa. The bottom line was a woman from an entirely different that entire system failed again, not Hasan # R130-559 cottage! just a shift. But as usual the buck OSP must be passed; blame the family, Needless to say we were 878 Coitsville­ escorted to eat, yelled at, told to friends, girlfriend, however never blame the system. Don't blame a shut up, and just to get our food Hubbard Road and get back in our rooms NOW!!! system that constantly allows Youngstown, Ohio human life to fall through the After we got our food we were 44505 bottomless cracks that swallow our immediately locked back in. We souls. No, instead we will blame anyone that gives them hope, that gave them love, that cared. . We are all God's precious children regardless of our mistakes and no one has the right to judge us! We will all have a judgment day! It is said that once we walk through these gates we are expected to stop feeling, caring, living and needing! Unfortunately for us our numbers are not just attached to a name, but also to a human being! . Society is quick to judge others and overlook their own faults and sins because they have not yet been confronted with them, but one day they will and I pray God shows them all a little more mercy than they show their fellow being! In prison we are constantly reminded we made a mistake somewhere in our lives and I'm sure that the very people reminding us have some skeletons in their closet. Carol Ann B ell and Mary (Monica) Acree succeeded in their suicides because no one who could have helped cared to hear their constant cries for help! Society must try to remember those of us locked away are still huntan beings and ~e need to be heard to. We hurt and feel ju.st like those on the other side of the fence. When Carol Ann passed away, the women begged for the institution to start paying attention to us, that it could happen again. You can see bow much attention they paid us! I personally have requested several meetings with our warden to just reason all this out. To date this request bas not been recognized. We need help! The huge sentences issued, like giving lottery tickets out, has to stop. It is not all the prisons' fault; the courts are at fault too. The entire money making system is at fault. Incarcerating people until they are too old to be of use to society has got to stop! When a judge says, "I sentence you to life," he is actually sentencing society to life with them. Life in prison is not the answer, it is just the easiest and quickest way for the system to keep moving forward at reckless speed and never take the time to stop and look at their hand built road of destruction. Please hear our cries now so that there won't be any more Carol Ann Bell's or Mary (Monica) Acree's in prison! Feel free to contact me: Dawnya Ferdiandsen #27006 at 1479 Collins Avenue, Marysville, Ohio 43040. �STREETVIBES FEATURE SECTION Project Connect and S Page 10 KA: Charity Festival Raises Funds and Awareness By Dan Marschner Project Connect is their after school tutoring program. Volunteers work with children to address their remedial knowledge needs. The tutors and the children can get fru strated easily, however, with the sheer amount of need there. Reinhart hopes to create a comprehensive support network for homeless children: "O ur dream is to create a central location Project Connect, Greater Cincinnati 's o nly education program for homeless children, has been the principal advocates of homeless children in Cincinnati for five years. Their record of helping homeless children in Cincinnati is unparalleled. Project Connect was created due to the McKinney Vento Homeless Assistance Act, legislation that mandated that ho mele s children and youth have access to appropriate public education. Debbie Reinhart, d irector of Project Connect, started as an administrator with the Cincinnati Public Schools. She was asked to create a program that wou ld serve the CPS' growing numbers of home less chi ldren. The goal of the program was to address an alarmi ng statistic: homeless children on average are two to three years behind in school. The number of homeless children also increased drastically due to Welfare Reform. Once she began to where homeless kids can come in comprehend the amount of need, the morning, and we could then Reinhart realized that Project . work directly with a few schools to Connect had quite a large transport the kids and provide for challenge ahead. The primary purpose of Project their needs." The program of Project Connect is to inform homeless Connect that the children like the fa milies about their rights. "If a most is the S ummer Fun Camp. fami ly goes to a shelter outside of the school district, the children still For eight weeks every summer, the program incorporates have a right to attend the same Americorps*VISTA volunteers, school," she says. "We work with local university students and school districts to ensure that certified teachers to work with a transportation can be arranged." She advocates that children remain smaJI number of kids to provide individualized attention. The in the same school; statistics is open to children who are camp indicate that homeless children homeless or are formerly change schools seven to eight homeless. Children are picked up times per year. "Lack of each day from shelters and g iven continuity in schools hurts the individualized attentio n, leaving child's ability to learn," says their parents the opportunity to rest Reinhart. and address the needs of the family Project Connect also helps to without having to bring their assimilate children into the public school system. If a parent contacts children everywhere they go. The kids also have a field trip once a Project Connect, the staff act as week, often to destinations they intermediaries between the CPS probably would never have gone. and the parents. The staff at These field trips include visits to Project Connect ensure that the Sunlight Pool at Coney Island, a particular school understands the trip to the Cincinnati zoo, a dude circumstances surrounding a ranch, and a trip to the Forest Fair particular student. "We ensure that Mall. Kate Yo ung, a Xavier the school understands the child's University senior, worked in the particular needs, especially camp last summer. "The kids were because homeless children crazy sometimes, and keeping typically need extra attention," track of them was exhausting, but according to Reinhart. the camp was really rewarding for Another major component of all involved." She especially enjoyed working with Reinhart: "Debbie is amazing because of how much dedication she has for the kids." One child recently expressed how much the Summer Fun Camp meant to him: "He said he was so glad that he was homeless, because if he wasn' t be would not have been able to go to camp," says Reinhart. friends who were part of the program . When Keeshin took over STYUKA, he realized that the charity festival had not been as successful as it could have been in past years. After discussions with the staff at Project Connect, he decided that ST YUKA's goal for the 2000-200 l school year would be to fu nd the transportation costs of Project Connect's S ummer Fun Camp. Previously, STYUKA had been primarily a festival at the end of the school year that generated minimal revenue for charity. He believed that the best way to raise the money needed was not to produce a si ngle event; rather, he dec ided to stage a series of smal1er events. These events included the Near Naked M ile (where students paid to run through the snow in their underwear), a performance by Don't Tell Anna (a Xavier improv comedy group), and the Peanut Butter and Jelly Lecture Series. The speakers in the series included Streetvibes ·' own evangelist Rodney Sutton, Through its highly successful representatives from Project programming, Project Connect has Connect, Xavier president Fr. served over 6,000 children during Mike Graham and local activist Sr. its existence. Funding is the Alice Gerdiman. STYUKA will largest chal1enge to tbe program 's conclude with the festival at the success, says Reinhart. "The end of April. McKinney-Vento Homeless Act Keeshin felt that previous bas never been fully funded, and in festivals did not take advantage of the last year our funds dropped their potential. "Rather than about $20,000 to $ 108,000." bringing performers with a minor Project Connect is supported by connection to the university, I felt the Project Connect Children 's that STYUKA would be better Foundation, yet fin an.cial needs are served as a celebration of student always significant. Like many achievements. Student groups will other agencies, the staff at Project have the opportunity to showcase Connect have a wealth of their achievements throughout the dedication and a lack of resources. year, and the performers all will be Xavier Uni versity's Xavier groups. Even our relationship with Project Connect headliner, local band Over the stems primarily from its Summer . Rhine, has a long-standing Service Internship program. relationship with Xavier." The Xavier students are placed at festival will have several booths several sites throughout the showcasing student groups. Greater Cincinnati area, and Performers will be students, Project Connect has been one of faculty and staff of Xavier before the program's best and most Over the Rhine captivates the challenging sites since the crowd. inception of the program, STYUKA is already well on its according to the program's way to completing its goal. director, Dr. Gene Beaupre. In Keeshin couldn' t be more pleased addition to service work program s with the results: "I am so pleased sponsored through Xavier 's to work with Project Connect. Dorothy Day House, Xavier We've been able to raise money sponsors a charity festival each for a great cause. I hope that we year called STYUKA. Brooks can exceed our goal and provide Keeshin, director of STYUKA, Project Connect with some means learned of Project Connect through to continue their excellent work." Did You t.:now? �FEATURE SECTION STREETVIBES Page 11 XAVIER UNIVERSITY INVITES You To THE 7thAnnual , Ct-lAQirv MU5iC f £SriVAL SATURDAY, APRIL 28 1 :00 PM TO 10:00 PM SUPPORT PROJECT CONNECT AND HAVE FUN AT THE SAME TIME! GREAT FAMILY ­ ENTERTAINMENT: CARNIVAL GAMES, ~ FOOD, INFLATABLE FUN ALL DAY LONG! 6:20 7 :20 CHEAP SUITS DON'T TELL ANNA a:oo MUSIC . . BY ' OVER THE RHINE A -L L STYUKA PROCEEDS DONATED TO PROJECT CONNECT �. '. '· EDITORIAL PAGE STREETVIBES Page 12 Welfare Budget Cuts ~oming By Mr. Lee Does anybody really know what time it is? Does anybody really care? Chicago "Hamilton County's poor are about to get poorer." That was the first line in a recent article (3/ 19/0l) written by Dan Klepal of the Cincinnati Enquirer. The article gave the details on an expected budget cut of $25 million dollars from the Department of Human Services (DHS) - the county operated agency that provides welfare, food stamps, job training and counseling to "the poor". That equates to 3.4 percent of DHS's $725 million budget, which covers administration and direct payments to cUents for welfare, foodstamps and Medicaid, according to Mindy Good, DHS spokeswoman . · Here' s how it works. The Federal government gives the money to the states. The states give the money to the counties. 1 The counties spend or contract for services with the money. According to county officials they have been encouraged to spend by the state. So, they spent. Now the available funding is drying up, and the pressure is on to reduce spending. The kicker is that the state has a $300 million rainy day fund and is under pressure from welfare rights advocates and Hamilton and Butler county officials to release more of those funds. Thus the struggle is on, and will probably not end until the budget is set in June. Katy Heins, director of the Contact Center in Over-theRhine, said the surplus money needs to be spent. The Contact Center is an organization that lobbies for changes in the welfare system. "It's irresponsible on the state level because money could be lost this coming year when they reauthorize (welfare) dollars," Ms. Heins said. "I do understand the budget problems, but there is federal money there and it should be spent." Strangely enough, in reading the article, my thoughts did not go to the programs that would b~ cut. I wondered, what happens to the people who will not receive the benefit of the services the dollars would fund? Aren't the people who would be served by this program Just a step or ~wo away , from being homeless? Look at it this way. You're struggling to survive on public assistance. Your hope to rise above or improve your quality of living is based upon the assistance that one or more of the program services that are ended due to the budget cut. Your way out appears lost. From hope to hopeless. What happens far to often is we think about the dollars or the programs. It's not about the dollars, or the programs. It's about the people. Faces, names and lives. Hopes, dreams and hurts. · There was a time that I thought that the old style of community organizing was dead. That the peopJe had become too broken to rally around issues. That marching, protesting and rallies were passe. That swaying public opinion was useless, because ~o one really cared. Have we become so jaded, that our demonstrations of compassion and charity are only ingrained reactions rather than heartfelt compassion? Do we really care about our fellow man, or just about how others perceive us? At times it seems that the problems of hunger, homelessness and poverty.are insurmountable. Maybe they are in our lifetimes. What we do about them as and how we do it may be more important. If we don' t demonstrate love and compassion in our treatment of our neighbor who is less fortunate, what do we expect if our lives or the lives of our loved ones take a turn that puts us in a position of requiring help? What does it say about our character? It's more than how much we give. It's more than how many we individually help. It has a lot more to do with what were really about. Do we really care? If we do, then maybe we need to find out what's really going on and what time it is. Homelessness: The Multi-Headed Beast By Dan Marschner Homelessness would be so much easier to solve if it was a simple problem. The solution may even sound easy. If all homeless people need is a decent place to live, then build dwelling places. Once people had homes, then homelessness would no longer be an issue and other problems could be attacked. Unfortunately, the answer to ending homelessness is much more complicated. Homelessness is not an isolated problem. The complexities involved in homelessness dictate that addressing one aspect is not enough. Simply building more homes will not have impact if the right mix of services does not support the development. Providing housing for someone is inconsequential if he or she cannot find a job that will provide the resources to support the housing. Therefore, any solution to homelessness must address the lack of living wage jobs. AGcording to the Department of Housing and Urban Development, nowhere in the United States can someone afford an appropriate level of housing payment on a minimum wage job. Most people who are homeless cannot find work outside of minimum wage jobs or temporary services that pay no benefits for the workers. Any homeless person with a criminal record faces an even tougher fight to find a living wage job. The rehabilitation, educatior{ and job training needs of prisoners are often ignored, making an inadequate return to society probable. Former prisoners who cannot reintegrate themselves into society often become homeless. Mental illness' impact upon a homeless person must also be considered. The National Coalition for the Homeless estimates that 20-25% of homeless people have some form of mental illness. Someone with significant counseling needs probably will be unable to keep their home if these needs are not addressed. Alcohol and drug usage must also be considered in the solution to homelessness. People with addiction needs but inadequate support most likely will be unable to keep their homes. Recovery for homeless people must be a major part of their attempt to leave their life on the street. In addition to these immediate needs, the more global aspects of homelessness must be addressed. U.S. overconsumption of resources, for instance, directly affects international homelessness. Economic policies that promote the exploitation of cheap labor lead to lost domestic jobs, and the lack of livable wage does not allow foreign workers to escape their own poverty. Homelessness is clearly quite an imposing monster to slay. For this reason, Streetvibes will continue to address all the aspects of homelessness, not just those connections immediate) y clear. Extra! Extra! Advertise to Socially Conscious Readers! Call 421-7803 for more information about how adv~rtising in Streetvibes will work .for your business Streetvibes exists as a forum for the expression ofthe views and opi,nions ofour readers antJ, supporters.- The opinions expressed herein are not ne_cessarily those ofthe Streetvibes staffi , or the Greater Cincinnati Coalition for the Homeless. �t STREETVIBES EDITORIAL PAGE Page 13 The West End .Uncler Siege · By Heather Cincinnati Refuse and Resist The gentrification issue in the West End is not an issue to be ·taken lightly. The low income housing of Lincoln ., Court and Laurel Homes is under attack. This project housing was founded in l 932, and is the oldest project housing in our community. Generations have built lives there for the past seventy years. Now the neighborhood built by the people is being destroyed by the city. Lincoln Court, now a pile of rubble, was once the home of about 7,000 occupants. This misplacement of these families and children is ludicrous. The city has not funded or helped keep track of these families, even though they promised them better homes. Laurel Homes is next. Approximately 2,500 people still live there, and all these people wilJ also lose· their homes to the city. The city has already begun to build new homes. The people forced to move were told they would receive new and improved housing for the same amount of rent or a Section 8 voucher. These new houses range from $150,000 to $240,000,'and only a minimum of housing i~ left for low-income fami'Jies. Lincoln Court had 885 units for lowincome families to occupy. . Recent reports show· that where Lincoln Court once stood, 250 houses, 400 apartments and 86 units for low-iricdme'fahiili'eS will stand. That takes away 90% of the housing that _once was there. When tenants were asked to leave, they were given only two weeks notice arid $50 to move ­ by far, not enough time or financial support. These homes are not being prepared for enough low income families to move back in. They are being prepared for middle and upper class white people. It is pure racism and classism. The Section 8 housing in the West End is not the only part of the community under attack. The West End Community Council (WECC), schools, parks, grocery stores, pharmacies, and more are being destroyed. The city has cut off all funds to the WECC. They no longer have heat or electricity in their office. This lack of support also prevents them from working hands on in the community with other organizations. City Council member Phil Heimlich is the main creator of all this destruction. He has a~cused the WECC o~ mishanaling funds. The City Council meeting on Febru~ 6, 200 I proved that the accusation was untrue. The FBI and the city both conducted investigations and nothing was found. Even though the city manager accepted the report, he is still not • recommending finan_cial' support. Council member Heimlich still insists that investigations should continue. The money used to support these investigations could be used to help the families and children get new homes. Five schools in the West End have been shut down. Grocery stores and pharmacies have been closed. Most of the residents a.re elderly and must walk to the nearby stores to get their groceries and fill their prescriptions. Fami}jes relied on these stores for their basic supplies, and closing the stores creates a large difficulty for tbose who do not drive. These families now must use public transportation just to get groceries. The closing of these stores is another example of the city trying to make people leave their homesi making it too difficult for them to live there. Helicopters are constantly hovering over the West End to cause an under siege atmosphere. The city has also added cameras to the·neighborhoods. These cameras are another example of the city trying to scare residents out of their homes. · The city h~s used millions of•-·:. dollars towards the drug war in ;_, ' the West End. The resulting discoveries have been Vf?ry, minimal. The city ha&put $15 million in addition to the federal oovernment's $ 130 million to tear I:> . • down the community that belongs to the pe0ple. With all the money available, why couldn ' t the families in the West End been helped more? Cincinnati's Refuse and Resist is working with the people of the West End to help keep the rights of the people. We will not stand for this disgusting treatment of people in the West End. If you would like more information about the efforts of Cincinnati's · Refuse and Resist on behalf of the people of the West End, please contact us at cincyrnr@hotmail.com. Also, meetings are held at St. Joseph's Church at the comer of Linn St. and Ezzard Charles every Monday from 7 to 9 p.m. All are welcome to attend. Refuse and Resist can also provide contacts to other organizations in the West End. Please join us in the struggle. We will not stand alone; we will refuse and resist. . Remember, dear...we never pickup strangers. u. CONOMY '· �ART & POETRY STREETVIBES WE WEAR THE M ASK TOMORROW HOMELESS Homeless can I find my way back home in this crazy storm Feet (tired) of walking to this beat in the street Misery and grief when will it decease Blood, sweat, tear, eye fuU with p~in and a soul black as night Why should the world Is this the end of my life? be otherwise, In counting all our tears and sigh? No nuts no glory, is this the end of my story Nay, let them only see us, whjle Ball till I fall We wear the mask. you know I'm down with that, y'all, but I'm homeJess, We smile, but, tirnd of telling lies to get by 0 great Christ, our cries, Tired of talking to people To thee from tortured souls arise. that's fake We sing, but oh, the clay is vile, Wishing that they blow away Beneath our feet, like sands on the beach and long the mile; But let the world dream otherwise; or be buried six feet deep for I can never hear them We wear the mask! speak or weep sometimes my anger burns with PAUL LAWRENCE DUNBAR passion and fi re like earth, wind and fire, with warm hot desire POOR STRANGE BOY a house is not home when a soul's become so cold Poor Strange Being sometimes I feel like I'm living in Set apart Set aside, and out of a cardboard box. Different by choice or Is thls what life is all about? circumstance? Sometime~ ,I feel like . Poor strange 'boy, I'm driven off into space ~ ·. ever incteasing uncertai·nty If you follow my words, Poor strange fellow, you can relate. . searcher in mirrors Tired of sitting on my ass. Honest child of liars. I'm ready to go, Poetic soul in a house of filth toe to toe Torture self-imposed. no less real I thought you know, No less inescapable I wish I knew what I know now Entreat to your God for Maybe if I cJ ick my heels two forgi veness times, just just maybe I will be Have courage to forgive yourself back home for all time Until tomorrow But this is not the wizard of OZ I dream only of today and ain't funn y to be cold and Reconciled to each other alone and see people die with ties that bind day by day Bound for grievance sake While people at home, Unwilling participant in madness sit warm and C?ZY, Along for the tide never having no feelings. the tlip turns for the worst I wonder, if the Lord took Fall away little man, fa ll away everything from them in the Find solid truth in a liquid world? twinkling·of an eye, I don ' t think so. how would they get by, We all have to surf our dreams would they live or die. Solid things are meant for rest We wear the mask that grins and lies, It hides our cheeks and shades our eyes, This debt we pay to human guile; With torn and bleeding hearts we smile, And mouth myriad subtleties. I I WARREN PERKINS 'f ..,, ' Page 14 Don' t look at me that way! It wasn't that bad. I said I was sorry. It won't happen again ... Why? Because. Don 't think bad about me! It was just bad luck. It could happen to anyone. I was in a lot of pain. It's behind me now ...What? If. Don't talk bad about me! I didn't do it. It wasn't my fault. It was just one of those things. I'll do better. . ..How? Work. Don't look at me that way! Don ' t talk to me Like that! Don ' t think bad about me ! I'll do better! .. . When? Tomorrow. MR. LEE RE'SUME' Razors pain you, Rivers are damp; Acids stain you; And drugs cause cramp. Guns aren' t"lawful; ,J Nooses give; Gas smells awful; You might as well live. . l \ • ' - ANTHdNY WATKINS <dluf]bLu~ 3722 €amden Avenue Cincinn'ati, Ohio 45202 573-708-2228 bgeaster@fuse.net www.theglasscharmer.com Economy and deluxe wedding invitations, birth announcements, parties and custom work. The-Pipe Fitters Union VA. Local 392 (1228 Central Parkway, Over-the-Rhine). �T - STREETVIBES Page 15 Homelessness and Free Trade By Susan Knight Understanding the link belween global economics (free trade) and lo~al economics is difficult. Related issues that revolve around Lhe di scussion of homelessness, such as health care and hunger, are entering into the "Free Trade" discuss ion. AJthough these policies and regulations are impacting the poorest nations first, they have begun to affect the Uni ted States. The affects of globalization ar e fe lt most profoundly in our impoverished, minority communities. In order to understand this process, it is necessary to dissect the institution known as free trade. The forces behind its implementation are the same forces that promote the tragedy of homelessness. The United States is at the forefront of the "free trade" agenda. President Clinton spearheaded the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFfA), an agreement with Mexico, Canada and the US that opens up borders to the free flow of goods. lt_a!so ~lows for corporations to sue governments directly (Chapter 11), in a NAFfA tribunaJ , instead of a corporation needing governmental representation. Now, the US is taking a lead role in developing the Free Trade Area of the Americas (FfAA), expanding NAFfA to the entire Western Hemisphere, except Cuba. It is easy to talk about free trade with reference to the U.S. in academic terms, but real-life application seems difficult. When talking about homelessness, however, there are some very concrete connections. premise, denied employment because of a past record , the obstacles to housing people become enormous. In addition, inmates very often leave prison with their mental illness exacerbated. Homelessness and crime very often seem the most viable alternative for individuals with such difficulties. The p1ison industry is lobbying for the passage of the FTAA What does the prison industry have to do with free trade? The prison industry is now a profit making industry. The more beds filled, the more money the corporation running the faci lity receives. It is profitable to keep people in prison and to ensure their return. Private prison companies received approximately $35 billion of tax dollars in 1998. Moreover, Corporation profited from forci ng their in mates to do unpaid labor in Kentucky. Moreover, the stake holders in the prison industry are the same stake holders in the global economy. In Texas, pri vate prison investors ranged from Allstate Insurance and Merrill Lynch to American Express. There is profit to be made in this industry, but there are ramifications, and we see that in our shelters and under bridges every day. Labor Probably the biggest connection between free trade and homelessness is found within the labor movement. If the FfAA is adopted, jobs will move througout the entire hemisphere and job security and wages lessen. According to the Department of When corporations have an interest in maintaining two ofthe biggest obstacles to ending homelessness, a livable wage and a means ofaccessing housing, the struggle is elevated further. rehabilitation is expensive. Sixty to eighty percent of the American inmate population has a history of substance abuse, yet drug treatment opportunities have declined. Drug treatment is now available to just 1 in ten inmates. FfAA would open up the markets even further to the private prison industry (to the entire Western Hemisphere). Moreover, under NAFfA rules, if a state contracts out for one private prison, they have to open the bidding process for all inmate populations. A state may not comply, but the minute a Prisons corporation wishes to pursue One of the biggest obstacles to business in an area, they can use that regulation and take the US to housing for the homeless is a the NAFfA Tribunal and force the criminaJ record. Moreover, the state to comply. US' largest mentaJ institutions are In addition, private state now our prisons, with almost Y:z of prisons have little regulation. If our 1.8 million prisoners abuse happens, there is no diagnosed as mentally ill. We regulatory body to oversee imprison more people than any changes. When abuse happens, the other nation in the world, even affect on individuals, especially China, whose population is enormously larger than the US. In the mentaJ ly ill, is profound. A few cases of horrific treatment the I 990's, our prison population have been brought to the media's doubled and continues to increase attention, specifically in Texas, but 50,000 to 80,000 a year. Finding affordable housing is a the daily issues such as food and cleanliness are not often addressed. major challenge itself. However, Labor abuse among private when a person is denied the ability to receive subsidized housing (as is prisons has aJso been documented, but is still considered a source of the case with most fe lony convictions with our local housing cheap non-union labor. For instance, the US Corrections authority), and on the same Housing and Urban Development, there is no city in this country where minimum wage is a livable wage, in other words that afford an individual their basic needs. And yet, as the borders become less and less clear, companies are leveraging fear of job loss for lower wages and benefits. The Temporary Labor industry is one of the fastest growing industries in the country. Temporary labor provides no benefits and often offers workers less than minimum wage (subtracting transportation costs, equipment rental, etc.). Locally, according to a 2000 study by the Coalition for the Homeless, 40% of Greater Cincinnati's homeless population work temporary labor. As this happens, local policy making bodies are promoting displacement of the poor, claiming a rapidly disintegrating tax base is to blame. Fundamentally we are looking at the consolidation of a cheap, exploitable labor force, here in the United States. As in Mexico, individual ownership of the land and food is being turned over to corporations, unions are losing ground (in the private prison industry, much of dollar savings occurs by using non-union labor), lacking the leverage to maintain li vable wages and benefits that keep people healthy and housed. The private market benefits those with the comparative advantage. Primari ly, mi norities and the poor lack that comparative advantage and arc forced into a race to the bottom. The global market forces are multinational corporations, who also engage themselves in domestic issues such as prisons, health care and labor. These domestic forces reflect in the myriad of issue that each homeles person carries with them. The homeless population is growing. Poor people are remaining poor. The prison population continues to grow (despite drops in crime). In a period of unprecedented prosperity, poverty continues to consolidate itself. The issues of hunger and disease are a reality for developing countries. But the forces at iplay there are the same forces, with the same interests, at play here in the United States. And, under the WTO, NAFfA, and potentially the FfAA the rules protect corporate interests. Power continues to be consolida\ed, wages continu~ t<;t drop relatively to the cost of living, prisons continue to expand and profit, health care becomes further out of reach for more people, and our ability to raise environmental standards continues to be hindered. Homelessness did not begin with free trade. But the issues we see manifesting themselves on the streets of Cincinnati are not the same issues that existed in 1920. Homelessness is growing just like the prison industry. As free trade continues to expand, developing viable solutions becomes increasingly difficult. When corporations have an interest in maintaining two of the biggest obstacles to ending homelessness, a livable wage and a means of accessing housing, the struggle is elevated further. Free trade hurts everyone but the shareholders in our largest corporations and politicians depending on corporate financing .. It not only about, what is for many a faceless but struggling third world nation, it is about our neighbors and community here in the US. There are people challenging the free trade concept throughout the world and especially in developing countries as it hurts people everywhere in every nation. The homeless in the United States are not aJone. �STREETVIBES Page 16 Workers, from page 1 arrested several on trumped up union officials told workers that charges (later dropped), and one the Duro Bag plant would close worker leader's house and move if they voted for the mysteriously caught fire and independent union, and the would burned. In the Duro Bag plant, lose their jobs. Individual manageµlent threatened and Duro Bag, the Maquiladoras, workers were threatened with . being fired if they supported the intimidated workers who the CTM independent union. Just before continued to support the the election the CROC brought in indep~ndent union. Rincon Jimenz and Orozco scores of gangsters and put them · With support from the explained that workers first AFL-CIO, from Canadian unions, up at the local. hotel. The attempted to organize an and from independent Mexican gangsters, armed with brass independent union back in April unions such as the Authentic knuckles, clubs, and guns, 2000. Workers were unhappy ~~~~--------------- including automatic weapons, with the National began to follow independent Paperworkers Union affiliated union supporters from work to with the Confederation of their homes. Mexican Workers (CTM), a A couple of days before notoriously corrupt labor the election, the gangsters and federation. Orozco and their automatic weapons were Rincon Jimenez explained that brought into the plant, and the union would not fight for walked through the workplace higher wages, would not deal threatening workers. Finally, with safety issues, and did not on the day of the election, improve conditions in the workers who still wanted to plant. Workers wanted such vote for the independent union amenities as bathroom breaks, ' had to nm a gauntlet of CROC basic safety equipment, and hooligans, and then vote out sanitary food service to loud before union and eliminate the insects and company officials. While the rodents found in food. They independent union bad also wanted a raise from their requested a secret ballot approximately $4.00 per day. election, the company, the The CTM union, they Wish List company officials ran off hollering that they had "no comment." complained, collaborated with Maria Francisca Orozco and Margarita other unions involved, and the Duro Bag, rather than Rincon Jimenez are turned away at the government refused to support that demand. representing the workers, and Duro Bag company in Ludlow, Kentucky noth ing in the plant improved. where they had come to seek justice in Not surprisingly, the Such low ages are typical their fight for an independent union. union lost the election by a photo submitted by Dan La Botz vote of 494 to 4. The very of the conditions of some 1.3 million workers who work in - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - ' lopsided nature of the vote testifies to the unfair character approximately 4,000 of the election. For the moment, Labor Front (FAT), the workers maquiladoras located along.the workers at the Duro Bag plant finally succeeded in forcing the U.S.-Mexico border. Owned have been defeated, but the fight State of Tamaulipas Mexico to mostly by U.S. multinational for independent unions along the recognize their independent corporations, and also by Korean, union. But the Duro Bag Workers U.S.-Mexico border continues. Japanese and European capital, Independent Union still had to the plants typically p·ay machine compete in a union operators and other unskilled representation election workers about $4.00 per day. against the CTM union Since the negotiation of the North and against an even American Free Trade Agreement more corrupt and (NAFTA) the number of plants violent paperworkers has grown, while Mexican union affiliated with the · workers' wages have fallen. Revolutionary Many of the plants were formerly Confederation of based in the United States where Workers and Peasants with union representation they (CROC). The typically paid wages between $7 representation election and $ 15 per day, plus benefits. was scheduled for March 2 at the plant in Workers Fired, Beaten, Rio Bravo. Burned O ut When the Duro Bag workers sought first to democratize their CTM union, and then to create an independent union beginning in April of last year, Duro Bag fired union leaders and activists. Consequently, on June 12 workers struck the plant to demand recognition of their independent union. But Duro Bag and the CTM union called in the Rio Bravo police who beat workers, o Supplies for vendor's lounge (paper towels, "cream an(il sugar,etc.) o 0ffice and Cleaning Supplies o Photography Help - film (400, 800, 1600), devel­ oping help, digital and/or film camera(s). o Computers/components for Streetvibes story­ writing, editing, research. o A new vehicle (van?) If you can help!, contact us (1,t: ~treetvibes, clo (;rearer Cincinnati Coalition for the Homeless, 1506 Elm Street, .Cincinnati, OH 45210 pli: (513}421-7803, fax (§t3) 421-78l3 e-mail: streetvibes@juno.com Captive Audience Meetings The Duro Bag company then began to work closely with the CROC paperworkers union to intimidate supporters of the independent union. At captive audience meetings, company and Get your G re ater Cincinnati Coa\ition for the Home\ess Year JOO I CA LE ND AR Now! Examining Home\ess ness from a kid 's point ·of v iew Featuring photos by Jimmy Heath . �MENTAL HEALTH NEWS STREETVIBES Page 17 Homelessness and Mental Illness A Fact Sheet ofthe National Coalition for the l;!<?.e'!lf.!.~~s Approximately 20-25% of the single adult homeless population suffers from some form of severe and persistent mental illness (Koegel et al., 1996). However, only 5% of the estimated 4 million people who have seriou? mental illness are hom~less at any given point in time (Federal Task Force on Homelessness and Severe Mental Illness, 1992). Despite the disproportionate number of mentally ill people amono the homeless population, the in homelessness is not attributable to the release of seriously mentally ill people from institutions. Most occurred in the 50's and 60 's. The vast increase in homelessness did not occur until the 1980's, when incomes and housing options for those living on the margins began to diminish rapidly. However, a new wave of deinstitutionalization and the denial of services or premature and unplanned discharge brought about by managed care arrangements may be contributing to the continued presence of seriql!.sIY mentally i}l p~J~qn_s withlii the home1ess population. Mental disorders prevent people from carrying out esse ntial aspects of ·dally life, such as self- : care,__household management and · interpersonal relationships. gr~wth Homeless people with mental disorders remain homeless for longer periods of time and have le~s contact with !amily ~nd fne~ds. They encounter more bar~ers to empl~~men~,· ten? ~o be m P9,0rer phys~cal fiealth, and have more contact with·the 1egal system than homeless people who do not suffer from mental disorders. All people with mental disorders, including those who are homeless, require ongoing access to a full range of treatment and rehabilitation to lessen the impairment and disruption produced by their condition. According to the Federal Task Force on Homelessness and Severe Mental Illness, only 5-7% of homeless persons with mental illness need to be institutionalized; mo·st can live in the community with the appropriase supportive options. Unfortunately there are not enough community-based treatment services, nor enough appropriate, affordable housing, to accom,modate the number of people disabl~q l?Y mental disorders in the ·u.s. Findings also reveal that persons with mental disorders and persons w~th addictive disorders share rp.apy ot the sam~ treatm!'.'.n t needs, inc;la~ihg careful designed ~ervices Do you find your self oh t he outside·of ·the job · market, looking in? ,' Do you want a self-motivated, low-pr~ssure job? Sell Streetvibes! The monthly newspaper with news from the str eet: · homelessness, poor people's issues, poetry, prose, and articles with their feet on the ground. cbent engagement ~nd ca~e management, housing options, an~ long-term follow-~p and support _service_s. Studies also emp~as~ze the i~portance of service mteg,:-at1on, outreach and engag<?ment; the use o~ case management to negotiate care systems; the need for a range of supportive housing and treatment options that are responsive to consumer prefe1·ences; and the importance of meaningful daily activity. When combined with supportive services, meaningful dai ly activity in the community (including work), and access to therapy, appropriate housing can provide the framework necessary to end homelessness for many individuals. Policy Issues Low-income people with mental disorders are at increased risk of homelessness. A variety of approaches must be employed to help them obtain and retain stable housing to prevent homelessness. In addition, programs that assure access ,to mainstream and targeted , community...based services for homeless people with serious mental illness should be · expanded. Streetvibes Classified Amer icorps VISTA P ositions Available! The NortheastOhio Coalition for the Homeless (NEOCH) has positions available in Canton, Akron, Cleve­ land, Columbus, and Cinci nnati with the Homeless Children and Youth Project. Contact the NEOCH for more inforniation. NEOCH 2012 West 25th Street $717 Cleveland, Ohio 44113 (2 16) 241-1104 email: neoch@bbs2.rmrc.net www.neoch,org GCCH Position Available Vendors buy the paper for 20 cents and sell it for a $1 donation. First 10 copies f ree to new vendors! Come in todqy ~o si~~ !:fp! Outreach Coordinator will direct the Speaker's Bureau. The Outreach Coordinator will recruit cites and speakers for the GCCH Speaker's Bureau. This coordina­ tor will also assess the speakers .in ' .the Speaker's Bureau. The Greater. cir.lt innati Coatitibn 'for ·the E!Gmetess 1506 Elm Str eet Cincir.matJ-, Ohio 45210 (513) 421-7803 Income (SSI) benefit levels must be increased so that disabled Americans are not forced to live in poverty. In 14 states and 69 metropolitan areas, ~he entire maximum SSI grant does not cover the Fair Market Rent for one-bedroom apartment (Kaufman, l997). In most states, even if the SSI grant does cover the rent, only a few dollars remain for other expenses. Benefit levels have not kept up with increases in the cost of rent and therefore do not provide disabled individuals with adequate allowances for housing. Finally, the commitment to making deinstitutionalization work as it was intended must be renewed. People with mental illness must be able to live as independently as possible with the help of expanded comprehensive, community-based mental health services and other supports. It is crucial that policies be proactive rather than reactive. Services such as crisis intervention, landlord-tenant lnterv;ntion, continuou~ · ­ treatment teams and appropriate discharge planning in jails and inpatient facilities must be made available in all communtties . Interested applicants should cont.act the Greater Cincinnati Coalition for the HOmeless, 1506 Elm Street, Cincinnati Ohio 45210 or call (513) 421-7803. AVOC Position Available Social Work Case Manager For Homeless/HIV+ Responsibilities incl ude: F.T. Case manager for caseload of homeless, HIV affected individuals and fa milies, and participation in related agency and community activities in busy AIDS Service Organization. Requirements: Minimum LSW; Experjence with HIVI AIDS, case management, the homeless and/or substance abuse preferred. Send resume by '315101 to: Case Management Position AVOC 2183 Central Parkway Cincinnati, Oh 45214 AVOC is an Equal Opportunity Employer and encourages all minorities to apply. �STREETVIBES Page 18 Think, from page I Supportive services may be provided to help residents maintain the housing and provide them with the support they need for maximum .self-sufficiency. The Think Tank is part of the community wide process involving all the people who are important to the Continuum. Representatives from nonprofit organizations, government agencies, homeless providers, housing developers, service providers, banks, private foundations and neighborh<?od groups were present. Most important to the process is the inclusion of homeless or formerly homeless persons to ensure that the process is grounded in reality, that all gaps are identified, and that proposed solutions make sense to those people who will use them. The Continuum must address the needs of all the homeless within a community. It must address the specific needs of the various sub-: populations including: the jobless, veterans, homeless persons with · · serious ment(}l illnesses, substance Emergency Shelter: A temporary place to stay with appropriate support services to ensure that homeless individuals and faffiilles receive adequate shelter and referrals to needed services and h'ousing assistance. Transitional Housing: A housing program, with a maximum stay of 24 months which assists homeless individuals or families to move froin shelter to permanent housing. A transitional housing program must have a full range of appropriate support services avai lable to it's residents to help prepare a person making the transition to permanent housing and independent Jiving. Permanent Housing: Permanent housing is just that ­ housing you li ve in as your own for an extended period of time. Service Enriched Supportive Housing is designed to help meet the long term needs of t9e disabled homeless individuals and.families. .. . . abusers, persons with IDVI AIDS , persons with m1,1ltiple diagnoses, victims of dorirest1c·violen.ce\':·.. runaway youth and others·/' .. :;.. ·.~· Key to unders~anding the proc.e.ss is the knowledge that.the ~UD's definition of homelessness ·is · different than one we In.i.ght use. That is .. . those persons living on the streets, iii shelters, in transitional 6r homeless housing, or are being ev1cted within one week and tiaye no place to go and no resources· to house them: HUD does not allow this assistance to help what they call "at risk" persons, including those living doubled up with family or friends­ but still have no place to call home. The specifiGobjectives of the planning process will be to: l. Identify the existing housing and service capacity. 2. Identify gaps in housing _ and services. 3. Place a " relative priority" on each item of housing anti serv ices that is within the Continuum. 4. Create new housing and/or service programs for the homeless~ which meet the HIGH priority needs. 5. Rank all programs proposed for funding this year in·priority order (e.g. numbered one through twenty). Wfiat was most important about the process was not that every recommendation.or observation was profound or unique, but that the process was dynamic. People really gave freely from their own real life experiences. There were pearls of wisdom in the solutions offered. Their feelings and thoughts were received, processed, recorded and respected. The homeless in attendance felt that they were really a part of something and that the profess ionals really cared what they felt and said. Hey, maybe it really does work.. . New ·study Examines·Honieless Healthcare · By Blaise Maccaronne reprinted from Spare Change Ihe.J.auma.J ;ofithf!'.Am:rfr:iii:IJn. ::; Medieal Association (JAMA:.). has ' recently published a study examining the varying degrees of healthcare available to, and used by, the homeless population of America. The authors of this study, Margot B. Kushel, MD, Eric Vittinghoff, PhD, and Jennifer S. Hass MD, has examined interviews conducted by homeless assistance programs with a total of 2,974 homeless people around the country, in both rural and urban areas. From these interviews they have concluded that a homeless person's health coverage, or lack of coverage, has a lot to do with the kind of medical care they are that they had not had contact with able to receive for their illnesses, which are often more frequent antl any type of.medical care in the past year .br more. Qne fou.r~ said severe thari those of the non · t}l~t they need~\d 'm<?Clic~l. ~~e..in : ~ homeless·p6p\itatitin'. fn facrthe .. · the past year and ~hey had not be~n study observed that ·•··r~ theUn ited able .to receive it. Just under half States, only persoi:is older than 65 of those studied said that they were . years of age had a rate of supposed to be talcing a hospitalization as those in our prescription medication, but most study, whose median age was 37 If you are unable to get or afford health insurance often your only option is to wait until your illness gets se~ious enough for you to go to the emergency room for treatment. years." The study group exhibited high rates of mental illness~ chronic health problems, and drug and alcohol abuse. , More than half of the people interviewed said that they were uninsured and over one fourth said of these people were not able to get the medication that they needed. The conclusion of all of this is something that homeless people, and those who work with them, have known for a while: if you are unable tc5 get or afford health insurance often your only option is to wait until your illness gets serious enough for you to go to the emergency room for treatment. While the mainsti:eam Amer'ican can afford at least doctdr's visits, if not rehabilitation climes, and mental heal£!1 care, the homeless have th-e moi;e ilmoediate.concerns -Social Security/SS! Denied? Call John M. Keegan · · Attorney at Law Practice ~oncentrated in Social Security/SSI · · Disability La~ NO FEE UNLESS WE WIN ~ (513) 65.1 -9222 ' . 4l FREE INITIAL CONSULTATION of obtaining food and housing before they get the luxury of thinking ·about their illness. .Though this study: ma~ not ~ave contained many revelations for the homeless community about the state of their health-care, the fact that it was published in JAMA, a widely read and highly respected journal, may be a great step toward nation-wide recognition of this problem. The study concludes with these thoughts, "These data suggest that improving insurance rates amongst homeless persons will require not - only expansion of eligibility, but also improvement in identifying and enrolling those who qualify. The provision of medical insurance may ... decrease the tendency among homeless persons to delay needed care. This, in turn, may contribute to decreasing high rates of emergency department use and inpatient hospitalizations and may (have a favorable impact on lessening) morbi.dity among homeless persons." Maybe now that the doctors have completed this study more people will take notice of homeless heal th care issues. Are; ,you a dedicated individual with a desir~ "to edu~at~ ~he public about · I · tionieles~ness? · Votunt~er at Str.eetvibe.9. "" We need writers, photograpers, editors, any help you can provide. Call 421-7803 for more information. �STREETVIBES Page 19 Trust Fund, from page 1 Fundin~ for Key Housing Programs Thansi~ional and Supportive Housing~ April 1 EarthSave Dining Our, 6:00 p.m. at a restauran.r co be determined. . Call EarthSave at 929- 2500 or Mary Ann Le~erer at 591­ .3003 for mare ·5 17 Over the Rhine Parks and Recreation Committee Meeting, 12 :15 p.m. at the Contact Center. CalJ 381-4242 for more information. 19 Greater Cincinnati Coali­ tion for the Homeless General Body Meeting, 1:30 p.m. at the Drop Inn Center. Call 421-7803 for more information. 21 EarthSave Vegetarian Pot Luck Dinner~ 6:00 p.m. at St. John's Unitarian Church, 320 Resor. For wore infonnation, call EarthSave at929-2500 or call Mary Arin Lederer •591-3003. The Health Foun(hfti9n of G.reattr Oincj.nnati presen "/lchie\thig Heafth Cate Access t-ot ~;n· a health ·• care acce~ jQrum. The forum will go from 8:00 am. Uu:Qqgb 1:30 p.m. at the Best~WememllJlue Ash Hotel and'Conference Center. • Funded with General Reveµue Funds, th.ese resources . . are used to. help provide critical matching grants for operating and ser\'.ice .co.sts in supportive ho.using for ho~eless people and.others with spe~ial ne~ds. This .pr9gram coulQ .be suppleJ.llented\~ith · suq)Ius 'TA.NF funcis to as.sist families. An increase would help cover a portion of the service costs currently funded by the Housing Trust Fund. An increase to the Recovery, from page 7 personal and caring relationship with God. Becoming involved in a local group of believers of like faith is a very important step to help keep the sanity of recovery intact. What are the steps? I remember as a non-using individual the first time I heard about an individual ''working thy steps." I started to look to see what steps he was working on and I didn' t see any. Then as I spent time working with individuals in recovery like Kevin and my patients I have.found the step to be along with ihe relationship with God the most valuable tool in their recovery. The steps help the individuals along with the help of Bridge , from page 6 $1,100 monthly rent for a two bedroom apartment. S hift work at odd hours keeps parents from school conferences and fro m overseeing their children 's homework, he added. Still, even as they cope with the stress and fear that homelessness brings, many parents are staunchly supportive of their child's academic progress. They walk their kids to the school bus every morning and meet them at the bus in the afternoon. They schedule regular homework time no matter how hectic the temporary shelter environment. They return calls from the child 's teacher. "Parents don't have to be Governor's budget of $2.4 million over the next two years in GRF is needed to assure that supportive housing projects serving single adults continue to receive ·support. Emergency Shelter Grants: . · the Governor's budget of $1 .5 million over the next two years is needed to keep pace with current demand. Community Development Corporations Grant Program: Funded with GRF, these resources Funded with GRF, these resou.rces are used to help provide matching are l!Sed to provide funds for 'pie­ grants to·operate basic Emergency development assistance and linked Shelters for homeless families and · deposits for affordable housil)g adults. This program has not seen : projects, grants for micro­ increases for many years. The Taft enterprise and economic Administration is proposing a cut dev~lopment projects and trairiing of $428,000 in appropriations for .. and technical assistance for · the Emergency Shelters despite nonprofit housing developers. An rising demand and costs. This increase to the Governor's budget program could be supplemented of $2.8 million over the next two with surplus TANF funds to assist years is needed due to the demand homeless families. An increase to for these resources. a sponsor (an individual that has been in the process of recovery for a long period of time) to start the process of developing an understanding of their addiction and behaviors that have led them down the path of destruction. The behaviors that have not just destroyed their lives, but lives of their spouses, children, parents, and countless other people.' The prineiples that each in9ividual who is involved in treatment and recovery is encouraged to learn is that addiction is a destructive force in their lives, but there is hope for recovery. We have a lot of wonderful churches in our community and throughout the country that believes that with prayer and power everyone can recover. Besides serving as a substance abuse counselor, I also serve as associate pastor of a local congregation, and no one would love to see individuals prayed for and never use again more than I do. ls recovery within reach? Kevin is a prime example of an unequivocal yes. What can we do as non-using friends and family? The best thing is to become · informed about what addiction is and how it effects their life. Prepare to help in whatever matter is appropriate for the individual, including tough love if need be. Develop a plan to stay.healthy.at ·,. any cost for yourself. Finally, keep the faith that it can get better, with God '-s help and the right help for the addict. wealthy to provide high quality parenting," M asten said . ."I' ve seen many children in shelters who do fine in school." Ray Aponte, principal .of Andersen Elementary School in the Phrnips Neighborhood of Minneapolis, said that it's hard for most of the school's homeless families to get aro und. He set up a special fond from private donors so children who must move frequently but want to stay in that school can do so through public transportation. The boy who arrives from Minnetonka is 45 minutes to an hour late to school every day. "But he' ll be here, and that's the most important thing," Aponte said. "I'm not spending thousands of dollars for extra transportation costs. It 's rare that a parent will ask for bus tokens. Maybe $200 buys 10 monthly passes, so figure that's the cost to keep a child in school." Families learn soon that absenteeism isn' t tolerated , and that their children's education is critically important. "The parents may get runarounds and forked tongue answers on shelters and on jobs, but when they deal with us, they know we' re honest and come from a power base of love because that is all we can do," Aponte said. "Some have been burned and hurt. Over time, they see things our way." Streetvibes is a proud member of the North American Street Newspaper Association (NASNA), a coalition of street papers throughout the U.S. and Canada. www.speakeasy.org/nasna . �Need Help or Want to Help? IBEATMENI: Men If for some reawn you find yourself homele.~. contact a Coalition Member .\JtMCY for Shelter. Treatment, Housing or Senices. If you have any questions, feel r1-ee h> call tile Gttllter Cincinnati Coalition for tl1t- Horuel~ ~1-IERS: ~ CMHA Excel Development Miami Purchase 721-4580 632-7149 241-0504 Charlie's 3/4 House Prospect House Starting Over 784-1853 921 -1613 751-3260 OTR Housing Network 369-0004 Women and tbllclt~JJ YWCA Battered 421-2437 St. Francis/St.Joseph House 381-4941 Mt. Airy Center 661-4620 Volunteers of Amer. 381-1954 ~J,.IER: 591-2246 Cincinnati Health Network 961-0600 Both Caracole (AIDS) 761-1480 821-5100 Chabad House Friars Club 381-5432 Drop Inn Center(Singles) 721-0643 Haven House {Hamilton) 863-8866 Interfaith Hospitality Ntwk 471-1100 Lighthouse Youth Center (Teens) 961-4080 St. John's Temp Housing 651-6446 ReSTOC Tender Mercies Tom Geiger House TREATMENT: Womftll O.D.A.A.T First Step Home 5.5..0.z. WD.-40 Lubricant 381-1171 639-7056 961-4555 32-0al. True Value Trash Can 221-6937 961-4663 569-1840 381 -4242 Contact Center 241-2563 Emanuel Comm. Center 241-1064 Freestore/Foodbank 771-4800 Goodwill Industries 421-7803 G.C. Coalition for the Homeless Hamilton Co. Mental Health Board 621-7149 632-7186 Ha!Tiilton Co. TB Control Health Resource Center 357-4602 Homeless Mobile Health Van 352-2902 221-3619 House of Refuge Mission 241-9400 Legal Aid Society Madisonville Ed. & 271-5501 Assistance Center 721-4811 Mary Magdalen House Oral Health Council 621-0248 621-6364 Our Daily Bread Peaslee Neighborhood Center 621-5514 Project Connect -­ 357-5720 Homeless Kids St. Vincent De Paul 562-8841 The Emergency Food Center 471-4357 Travelers Aid 721-7660 United Way 721-7900 859-572-6226 VA Homeless Program Women's Crisis Center 859-491-3335 872-9259 Women Helping Women Thank you for your support. � Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource 2001 Text A resource consisting primarily of words for reading. Examples include books, letters, dissertations, poems, newspapers, articles, archives of mailing lists. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre Text. Original Format The type of object, such as painting, sculpture, paper, photo, and additional data Newspaper Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource April 2001 Subject The topic of the resource Homelessness Description An account of the resource Pg 1: Homeless Think Tank Mexican Workers Confront KY Company Pg 2: Vendor Profile Pg 3: Grant Helps Obtain Medical Coverage Pg 4: Xavier Raises Awareness About Homelessness Pg 5: Welfare News Pg 6: National News Pg 7: Recovery: The Good, the Bad and the Ugly Pg 8: Prisoners’’ News Pg 9: Selective Security Results in Second Successful Suicide Pg 10: Project Connect and STYUKA Pg 11: Xavier University STYUKA Pg 12: Welfare Budget Cuts Looming Homelessness: The Multi-Headed Beast Pg 13: Editorials Pg 14: Arts & Poetry Pg 15: Homelessness and Free Trade Pg 16: Workers Continued Pg 17: Homelessness and Mental Illness Pg 18: New Study Examines Homeless Healthcare Pg 19: Trust Fund Continued Recovery Continued Bridge Continued Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Streetvibes Archive Project Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Streetvibes Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Greater Cincinnati Homeless Coalition Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource April 2001 Contributor An entity responsible for making contributions to the resource Alicia Beck Susan Knight Tom Billman Dan Marschner H.L. Bowen Pat Mitchell Mary A. Gaffney Mary Taylor Sonny Williams Mr. Lee Blaine Reynolds Staughton Lynd Warren Perkins Paul Lawrence Dunbar Dawyna Fernandsen Anthony Watkins Deborah Locke Don Allen, Jr. Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource PDF Alicia Beck Anthony Watkins Arts & Poetry Blaine Reynolds Budget Dan Marschner Dawyna Fernandsen Death Row Deborah Locke Don Allen Editorials Free Trade Gaffney Grant H.L. Bowen Healthcare Jr. Legal-Aid Mary A. Mary Taylor Medical Coverage mental illness Mr. Lee National Coalition for the Homeless National News Pat Mitchell Paul Lawrence Dunbar prisoners news recovery Sonny Williams Staughton Lynd Suicide Susan Knight Tom Billman Warren Perkins welfare Xavier University https://streetvibesarchive.net/files/original/ccc087ef26276b33608cb746928059c4.pdf 9fd71dea49106fc1108b47d1fe7afa72 PDF Text Text @ ..u Greater Cincinnati Coalition for the Homeless �April 2003 Cover Story ReSTOC celebrates 25 years of Over-the-Rhine Neighbor­ hood Development Grassroots agency leads Vine Street development improving the cond.itions on Vine Street? Maybe there is .s ome hope after alt Continuiµg my walk, I cross Thirteenth Street to find the by Michael Flood same sign on another building. The Walking north along the scaffolding on the front of the west side of Vine Street I pause to building holds workers above the street fixing the facade of another listen to the sounds ofbanging and bashing and knocking. Is someone vacant building. Before I reach the corner of working inside this building? As I listen closer, I hear the sounds of Fourteenth Street I find another building with the same sign, but saws ripping and zipping through this time, instead of watching out wood. I am suddenly·startled by the thump of something thrown from above, I have to be careful to into the bed of a truck, another avoid walking beyond a barricade load of demolition debris ready to and into a trench where workers have just finished up connecting a be hauled away for reclamation. I look up to see a sign on the shiny new copper pipe to the water building, "Coming Soon : H istoric main for service to a building Building Reha bilitation: A which is well beyond the demolition phase and very much Com munity Rehabilitation under construction. This building P roject by ReSTO C" as well as another sign that says the City of is being sheetrocked, after the plumbers, .electricians and HVAC -----~i~cinnati is he~pin?. ~building is ~-*b..,. 1'"'m""g-"rrm1gP"fba'.'"""cti-k--'"""1Tu'!11a<:fme""Cls--+Jr.oia,.,.ve-r+dnnone their first steps. housing to the City's " most I can't help but wonder, important street" - Vine Street. Is "who, or what, is ReSTOC?'1 someone listening to the Mayor I walk west on Fourteenth and dQing something about Street, then continue north on Republic Street. As I approach Fifteenth Street, I see for the fourth time an identical sign to the earlier ones_ proclaiming that this building, on the northwest corner ofFifteenth and Republic, is a project of ReSTOC. This building is the furthest progr.essed of all. It is being painted inside, a sure sign of the last stages of rehabilitation. Now I know for sure, I have to find out about ReSTOC. ReSTOC, short for Race Street Tenant Organization Co­ Operative was chartered in 1978, having begun with one property on Race Street in 1977. 2003 marks the 25th anniversary of the neighborhood housing co­ operative. It now owns forty­ seven properties in Over-the-Rhine. Most ofthe properties ReSTOC owns are in the Washington Park area. Its buildings and lots are o Vine, Republic, Race, Pleasant, Elni, Thirteenth, Fourteenth and Fifteenth Streets. The mission ofReSTOC to provide decent, safe, racially integrated, sanitary housing at th most reasonable cost possible in tenant-cooperative manner that i financially sustainable. ReSTOC works on the principle of a co-operative. Afte member/tenant has been with ReSTOC for one year, they are allowed to join ReSTOC's board owners and have a vote on how ' ReSTOC .... Cont. on page 10 Hate Against the Homeless National Coalition for the Homeless Ranks Ohio as the 4th Most Dangerous State for Homeless Citizens by Andy Erickson Kenny Segrest lived on the Ohio River just outside of Huntington, West Virginia. One evening in July, three teenagers walked through his campsite. One threw a beer bottle on the ground. Mr. Segrest asked them not to litter, because this was his home. The three teenagers responded by beating Mr. Segrest with their hands, feet, and sticks until he was dead. Unfortunately, this isn't an uncommon occurrence. According to a report soon to be released by the National Coalition for the Homeless (NCH), in the past four years there were a total of 125 reported acts of violence against homeless men and women that resulted in death. There were 161 reported acts ofp.on-lethal violence against homeless men and women. Many more ofthese violent crimes probably went unpublicized and unreported. Often, homeless people do not report crimes committed against them because ofmental health issues, substance abuse, fear of retaliation, past incidents, or frustration with police. These hate crimes against the homeless occurred all over the Ricky White, 45, was followed down an alley by a group ofteens in country - in 286 different US Galveston, Texas and hit in the back ofthe head with a hard object. Photo cities - over the past 4 years. Many occurred here in Ohio. In courtesy of The Daily News, Galveston County. fact, you might be surprised to surpassed by California (3 2 that occurred in our state happer know that NCH so far has ranked separate incidents in 1.8 cities in Springfield. Ther~, inAugust, ­ Ohio as the 4th most dangerous resulting in 20. deaths and 15 non­ Denni~ R. Wade, a homeless mai state for homeless people to live. lethal acts), Colorado (13 separate was sleeping on the porch of an Over the past four years in incidents in 2 cities resulting in 11 abandoned house when he was s Ohio, according to NCH's deaths and 4 non-lethal acts), and on fire. He suffered burns on ov forthcoming report, there were 11 Washington State (13 separate 80% ofhis body. T hough initiali separate incidents in 5 cities . incidents in 5 cities resulting in 10 resulting in 8 deaths and 4 non­ Hate deaths and 3 non-lethal acts). lethal acts ofviolence against The most recent act ofviolence homeless pe~p le. Ohio was only cont. on page 3.... C NI A I ·I T �STREETVIBES Local News April, 2003 Exploring Change Since April, 2001 by Jimmy Heath Almost two years ago, the summer after Cincinnati's civil unrest, my friend Reggie and I were hosting a display of some of our art during the Over-the-Rhine Community Festival in Washington Park. Organized by the Ov~r-the­ Rhine Community Council, the Contact Center and many other grassroots organizations in the neighborhood, the festival is held each year during August to celebrate the community and bring neighborhood people together. Because ofthe civil unrest a couple months earlier, this particular neighborhood Festival gathering was especially important. It was still a hot time in Over-the-Rhine. The memories ofthe unrest had not begun to fade. City Hall was still reeling from the consequences of that disturbing weekend, (and still is to this day) the news media was still watching, and community residents were trying to figure out how to ease the tensions so that normal everyday life in the neighborhood could resume. The Over-the-Rhine Community Festival was like a temporary oasis, a retreat, in a troubled inner­ city community. I ran into Reggie recently and we talked about our .shared experience in the p~k on that summer day two years ago. On that hot afternoon in August of2001 , Reggie and I were standing near our art. displays, talking and watching the children and adult crnwds moving about the various festival booths. The civil·unrest and it's implications was the main subject of our conversation. There were a lot of folks from the news media wandering around the festival booths to witness the gathering, looking for a story. It wasn't long until a newspaper reporter, photographer in tow, approached us and began a conversation with Reggie. "What do you think is the current state ofOver-the-Rhine?" asked the eager reporter, note pad ready in hand. "Well, I'm not sure I'm qualified to talk about that. I live in Hyde Park," was Reggie's reply. Pointing to me Reggie continued, "But Jimmy here lives in Over-the-Rhine, maybe you should talk to him." "Oh," replied the newspaper reporter, after glancing at me. Reggie and I both immediately sensed that something was wrong with this meeting. It was unspoken, but we both sensed it. It didn't take .us long to figure out what the problem was. You see, Reggie is black, and I'm white. The newspaper reporter; with a story possibly half written in her head, saw her ideas and her stereotypes challenged by Reggie, Page 2 the black dude from Hyde Park, a neighborhood that is perceived as white and '.'upscale", and Jimmy, the white dude from the predominately poor and African­ American neighborhood ofOver­ the-Rhine. "We need to find someone else," the reporter said to the photographer, and they both walked away. Reggie and I share an indignant laugh over the memory of this encounter every time we run into each other. Maybe I was too white, or Reggie wasn't "black" enough. We still haven't got it completely figured out. Eventually, the reporter found a suitable person for the interview because I saw the piece in the newspaper the following day, along with a photograph. It wasn't a bad report - it told the story of an Over-the-Rhine resident and the frustration of living in the neighborhood surrounded by so much turmoil. But what Reggie and I found through this experience too was a (Continued next page...) . Childrens booth at the Over-the-Rhine Community Festival ·Streetvibes Vendor Code Each vendor must sign and agree to abide by the following code of conduct... the sale of Streetvibes will go to the individual vendor. Falsely stating intent or otherwise mis­ donation. I agree not to ask for donations of representing is a violation of a city ordinance and more than $1. I also understand that I will be may be cause for arrest. able to keep 80 cents of each dollar collected. 8. I will always present my badge when purchasing 2. Streetvibes may only be purchased from the papers, and I will display my badge at all times Greater Cincinnati Coalition for the Homeless while vending. Replacement badges are $5 each. (GCCH). Purchasing or selling unauthorized 9. There are no territories. I agree that I will not papers, or from other vendors, will result in contest territories with other distributors. I will termination from the program. not sell on private property without permission. 3. I agree that I will not ask for donations or attempt 10. I understand that Streetvibes strives to be a self­ to vend after 12 midnight. supporting paper created by people who are 4. I agree to treat others with respect - other ven­ homeless or formerly homeless. To help in this dors, customers, and GCCH personnel. effort, I will try to spread the word and write 5. I will not sell Streetvibes while under the influence stories ifpossible. of drugs or alcohol. ·6. I will not give a "hard sell" or make someone feel 11. I understand that failure to comply with any of the above statements will result in termination threatened. from the Streetvibes vendor program. GCCH 7. I agree not to deceive the public by saying that I reserves the right to terminate a vendor at any am collecting for a not-for-profit charity or that I time as deemed appropriate. am collecting for the "homeless" in general. I will be honest in stating that all the profits froin 1. Streetvibes will be distributed for a $1 voluntary �STREETVIBES April, 2003 Page 3 sense of how many stereotypes " mission offenders," who believe Hate there are about who lives in what they are on a mission to cleanse the cont. from page 1 ... neighborhoods here in Cincinnati. ~orld of a particular evil. Others Segregation lives even in the are " scapegoat offenders," who Mr. Wade was in stable condition, subconscious mind ofCincinnati project their resentment toward the his brother reported, "He has no giowing economic power of a citizens. We assume and expect skin. The damage is done. He is particular racial or ethnic group black people and white people to not going to Qiake it." His brother through violent actions. Still come from certain communities in was correct. Wade eventually others are "thfill seekers" - those this city. On the surface this may succumbed to his injuries. who take advantage of a vulnerable not seem like much, but it reveals In October of 2001, a homeless and disadvantaged group in order the inherent and subtle racism that Cincinnati man was sitting in Piatt to satisfy their own pleasures. lingers in the white community of Park when a group ofyouths came Thrill seekers, primarily in their · Cincinnati. I think these up behind him, hit him with bricks teens, are the most common assumptions are at the core of the on the back of the head and then perpetrators of violence against the city's problems with race relations, ran off Two days later, a police homeless population. the quiet and unspoken racism that officer saw the back of the man's Donald Whitehead, director resides in the minds of the head and took him to the hospital of the National Coalition for the uneducated or uniformed. In our where he was given stitches. The Homeless, said in a press relea.se, minds, the miricfs'ofwhite folks man later had a series of strokes "Our country is in its darkest hour. especially, these minute notions and died as a result of the injury to As more and more men, women grow. We become guilty of covert his brain. and children are forced into segregation and racism. For some Because of stories like these, NCH poverty by worsening economic it may only be subconscious is calling on Congress to add conditions and the widening and racism. For others we know, housing status to pending hate growing gap between the rich and racism does not linger below the crimes legislation. In 1968, the the poor, their cries for help are not surface. U.S . Congress defined a hate crime being gre:eted with kindness or So much of what I read and as a crime in which the defendant benevolence, but are instead being hear about Over-the-Rhine makes intentionally selects a victim, or in greeted with apathy and hate. It is reference to my neighbors as the case of a property crime, the time that we expose these "those people." And it isn't only property that is the object of the cowardice acts against people about poverty, or the politics of crime, because of their race, color without homes. It is time we bring downtown Cincinnati; it's about or national origin. . this darkness to light." race. Hate crimes are commonly called At the time ofthis issue's As long as we refuse to bias-motivated crimes, referring to publication, NCH's hate crimes examine our relationships with the prejudice or partiality of the report had not been officially ~ple ofdifferent cultures, and perpetraJo_r against the victim's real released . For more information learn to understand how we or perceived grouping or about hate crimes and other issues subconsciously harbor certain circumstance. According to NCH, surrounding homelessness, please notions and prejudices, we will most hate crimes are committed visit NCH's web site at never learn to appreciate and love not by organized hate groups, but www.nationalhomeless.org. our neighbors. We will always be by individual citizens who harbor a separate, and we will certainly strong resentment against a certain never heal a community. group of people. Some are I'm sure that the next time I see Reggie this conversation will continue! Courage is,what it takes to stand up anH speak. Courage is aJso what it takes to sit , down ·and listen. fflnstomChurchill The cause of viol~nce is not ignorance~ It is self-interest.•• Only reverence can restrain violence - reverence for human life and the environment • Rev. William Slo@ Co/ji1f., Jr. ReST(!)C is now ee/ebrating 25 years of ·b11iltling a strong, community in ·o ver- Write Us! · ~. . . the-Rhine! Join us for ReSTOC's 25th Anniversary Dinner & Fund raiser We'd lihe to hear ~· frOm IJOU- jill~I' Send letters ol'. comments (o: ' Streetvibes@Juno~om, or Write the Coardion office attn: Streetvibes Letten, I 506 Elm Street Cincinnati, Ohio,45202 * Blank € D - RW Disks - For Streetvibes. Sunday, April 27 at Elder High School Reserve your seat todayl * Supplies for Vendor's Lo'Unge (paper towels, cream and sugar~ snacks, etc.) * Cleaning Supplies * Office Supplies - floppies, copier paper and other supplies ·email: inffJ(#)Jiationalhomeless.org. http:!! www. nationalhome1ess.or.g If you can help, c01!tact us at: Streetvibes, c/o Greater Cincinnati Coalition for the Homeless, 1506 Elm Street, Cincinnati, OH 45202 (513) 421-1803 e-mail: streetvibes@juno.co1J! Call 513-381-1171. . and James Barber Race Street Tenant Organization Co-Operative 114 West 14th Street Cincinnati, OH 45202 (513) 381-1171 (voice), (513) 381-1314 (fax) �STREETVIBES April, 2003 by Molly Rhodes something else." A new exhibit in San President George W. Francisco's city hall celebrates Bush's 2004 budget request still the skills of the panhandlers fails to meet the needs of . Americans most in need, according to a statement issued by the National Coalition for the Homeless. While Bush claims·his budget provides the federal department ofHousing and Urban Development with the resources to help low-income families to buy homes, it does little for people who cannot even afford any kind of home, rented, bought, or otherwise. "The budget fails to include any significant resources for large scale housing production and is marked by level funding of programs serving homeless, disabled, and elderly populations," reads the statement. "President Bush's proposal thus continues the tragic historical trend that created modern homelessness and remains at its root. In a sad illustration of this fact, the Administration's proposed FY2004 HUD budget represents a 63% reduction since the last year of the Ford Administration; over the same period of time: requests for new Section 8 vouchers alone dropped from over 400,000 to a meager 5, 500 this year. " . Bush's budget also fads to help people meet their basic healthcare needs and provide for their children. As the statement concludes, "We call on the President to translate the "courage and enter.prise" ofhis rhetoric into meaningful, measurable actions to end the unnecessary disgrace ofthe most severe form of poverty in the richest nation in the world." Helping the homeless could become as easier as feeding a parking meter­ ..._ literally - in a new plan proposed by the Athens, Georgia, Downtown Development Authority, in which four refurbished parkipg meters would collect money for the homeless. The idea is supposed to be an alternative to giving money directly to panhandlers on. downtown streets, and instead put it in the meters which would then have their wares distributed to local service organizations, according to the Athens Banner-Herald. A similar program in Nashville, Tenn., has garnered the city $200 a month in homeless services donations. "I think it's worth a try," Athens­ Clarke Mayor Heidi Davison told the Baner-Herald. "We' ll see if it works, and if not we' ll try most people go out of their way to avoid. Local artist Dianne Platner paid homeless people for more than 1po homemade cardboard signs- the kind of signs homeless people are often seen holding up by the side ofthe road - and used them to erect a miniature makeshift tent city next to the elections department in city hall, according to the San Francisco Chronicle. Platner is not trying to make a political statement about how homeless people should be helped; as she told the Chronicle, " I just hope [this exhibit] exposes the depth of the problem in another way and raises awareness about the complications involved in caring for people who are disenfranchised." Page 4 Asian poverty rates are as high or sometimes even higher than other ethnic groups, they manage to find ways to care for or find help from people from their local communities and families. "I don't know what we would have done without family," one Chinese immigrant told the Mercury News. "It allowed us to survive." Dwight Henson is poised to make Denver history as the first homeless person to run for mayor in the city. The 41­ year-old former rancher and cab driver has been introducing himself to as many Mile High City residents as possible, including a get-out-the-vote event for area high school stUdents. He surprised some students by announcing that, ifelected, he would actually reduce money for homeless programs because these programs contribute to homelessness rather than help end it. Yet most students were thrilled to open the debate to someone who had experienced a different side oflife. "He may not win, but he'll open a lot of people's eyes to the homelessness in Denver," said Michael Schaus, a Santa Monica is quickly senior at Denver School of the learning that just because you Arts, told the Denve~ Post ban sleeping on the streets (www.denverpost.com).. "He doesn't mean you've solved the, shows anyone who is willing can run for mayor. " problem of homelessness. A To look on the bright neighborhood in the eastern part of side, it's encouraging that th~ city has gotten together to figure out what to do about people wanted to give money homeless people who continue to to help the homeless. Ofcourse, sleep in their business doorways no homeless people will ever and alleys, according to the Santa benefit from the money collected Monica Mirror. However, rather by two women who instead than consider the fact that the high pocketed it all for themselves. No­ cost of housing the area means one at the Northeast Ohio people have no where to live, Coalition for the Homeless in residents are instead convinced that Cleveland is sure just how much liquor sal~s and the high quality of money the two managed to trick garbage put in alleys by locaL out ofpeople, though it's believed restaurants are the true source of they've been soliciting false their problem. With such a donations for the past six years, perspective, there's litt!e odds of according to the Cleveland Plain them solving their problem any Dealer (www.cleveland.com). time soon.. . Most recently, the two are believed While homelessness continues to be a problem in Northern California's Santa Clara County surrounding San Jose, it appears some ethnic groups have found ways to minimize the suffering. Although Asians make up 25 percent ofthe county's population, they make up just 4 percent of people who sought emergency shelter last year; nationally, they make up 3 percent ofthat group. In a report from the San Jose Mercury News, (actors such as the shame offailure and access to housing with relatives, even in tight living situations, appeared to be the main reasons Asian communities are shielded from experiencing as much homelessness. Even though to have duped people mere blocks from the Coalition's headquarters. The two women used to sell the Coalition's homeless street newspaper, the Homeless Grapevine, but switched to asking for charity donations - and kept those donations - when they realized how much more money they could make for themselves. "People who donate to these women will be hesitant to donate again," the Coalition's executive director Brian Davis told the Plain Dealer. "Certainly, this harms all homeless organizations." After three years of federal funds reforming and supporting hundreds of homeless shelters and related projects across the country, the Canadian government has now placed its focus - and $405 million Candian dollars - on the next layer of the struggle to get out of homelessness: transitional housing. What's more, provinces like British Columbia have decided to match the money from the national homelessness initiative with their own funds, according to the Vancouver Sun (www.canada.com/vancouver). The Supporting Communities Partnership Iriitiative has already helped 216 projects in British Columbia and the Yukon with $52 million in funding that has gone to cre~ting new shelter beds, . renovating crumbling shelters, and improved support sevices like food banks and soup kitc~ens. "The communities said to me, we have enough shelter beds, what we need is transitional houses," B .C. Labour Minister Claudette Bradshaw told the Vancouver Sun. "We are going to save these kids." The announcement about money for transitional housing comes-as housing advocates have been gearing up for a big battle over Vancouver's ofd for the 2010 Winter Olympics. The advocates fear a repeat of the scene during the 1986 Expo, w~en low-income, long-term tenants were booted out ,,. of single-room-occupancy hotels,,.t o make .room for short-term tourists. Wary that the stereotypical image of homeless is a single male, the Salvation Army launched a new campaign in Tuscan, Ariz., to highlight the plight of homeless children. Posters with pictures oflocal homeless children, statistics ab'out homeless, and ways. for the local community to get involved can be found on everytliing from buses to businesses. The Salvation Army estimates over one-third ofthe approximately 5,500 homeless people in Tuscon - or 2,000 . people - are children, accordmg to the Tuscon Citizen (www.tusconcitizen.com). The campaign is not just to raise awareness but also money for housing for homeless families with children. The charity is currently looking at sites located near services and public transportation, but is already facing opposition from local officials and the greater community. The charity hopes educating the public on who really suffers from homelessness will alleviate their concerns about helping them in their own backyard. This news report is reprinted courtesy ofReal Change News, Seattle, WA. �STREE TV IBES April, 2003 Page 5 Formerly Homeless, Ri.sing Up To Help Others by Nasira Tullah I'm from Dayton Ohio and I'd like to share my story with Streetvibes. Seven years ago I was homeless with children coming out of an abusive relationship. I ended up living with my parent's in a room that a child's bunkbed could barely fit in with my four children. The Creator made a way where I landed a j ob working at a local newspaper as an assistant administer security guard. Soon after that one job became tWo. Realizing that two j obs would only take care of two children I appli~d for another job at the local battered women 's shelter as a security guard. The three jobs led to four. With that the Creator blessed me with a house under the (Dfvf.HA) Dayton Metro Housing Authority. I know it was the Creator that watched after my children because the landlord requested that no more than two children be allowed into the home. That day I cleaned all my children up and we headed out to the interview. Out of all the people there my family was chosen for the home. About a month later after settling in, God came to into my life and changed my heart and I was guided to use my home to help the community. Not less than one year after getting into my home I gave many of my personal items away and things left over. I sold them to help the needy. Since 1996, I've been feeding, clothing and sheltering those in need. I funded everything from out of pocket expenses or through donations from area businesses, fami ly and friends. I eventually quit working to support my mission on earth but soon the funds ended. I turned to the Montgomery County Job & Family Services for support. I received public asstistance for a time but the 36 month time limit had taken effect. I removed three of my children from the Dayton Public School System to homeschool which lead to no support from them. So things had developed to the point where no support came from that department. With no or little business knowledge I began to search for a way to help myself to become self sufficient. With that in mind I started developing programs for the youth ofthe Dayton community, working with parks and recreation, metro parks, etc. Anyone or anything that could support my efforts in the community. Rockdale Temple has announced the release of the latest in its series of Community Resource Cards. The new one, printed in Spanish, is customized for the needs of Cincinnati's rapidly growing Hispanic/ Latino population. The tri-fold, plastic cards are funded by the Health Foundation of Greater Cincinnati as a project of Rockdale Temple, in consultation With Bienstar, Su Casa and The Greater Cincinnati Coalition for the Homeless. In addition to the Hispanic Resource Card, the Resource Card Project has also produced cards for senior citizens, the homeless, and public school and Catholic school students covering the Tri-state area. Cards can be ordered from: cc 5300 Hamilton Avenue, #210 Cincinnati, Ohio 45224 or send a fax request to: (513) 541-0099 When I went to the Department OfHuman Services, they refused to see my need to help those in the poverty area where I lived nor what I was trying to achieve at that point. I applied for asstistance some time in 1999 and they refused me because they said I should stay home and be with my children for working was not a part of the plan. I received social security for a little while but that soon was cut off. Today I receive less that $300 a month. I'm still striving to support the homeless of my community. I've asked the F&J services for some support and this very day they won't return my call. I've become a grassroots community center. I'm not sure where God is trying to lead me with this but I believe I was chosen to make a difference in the I ives of people whether or not if its to provide shelter for a day, a meal or a listening ear. Today I'm known in the community as Movement 19, home of Euphoric Earth Healing. I seek help with food, clothing, etc. Right now, with the help of those that .believe in me this will manifest into something great. "I have a dream" of having my own grassroots non­ profit community center in the center of where its needed the most. Today I sit with and protest for the rights of the poor along side Streetvibes, OEC and many other interest groups. I'd like to thank you for your consideration and for reviewing my story. - - Know Your Rights Brochure Available! The Know Your Rights Brochure is now available at the Coalition's office. The brochure is a legal guide for Cincinnati's homeless and covers a person's basic rights when interacting with the police, as well as some local 'IL"- •• laws that might be ofinterest to the fJ ~ homeless population. If you are a j homeless person or if you work . with homeless people and would r, Like to obtain free copies of the ~ , brochure for yourself or your ' agency, please call 421-7803 , or stop by the Coalition office and pick , one up. �ST R EETVIB ES P age 6 April, 2003 Talking About Panhandling, Poverty and Homelessness earning the minimum wage would a lot oflime and a lot ofwork. have to work 99 hours per week in Many trends will have to be order to afford a two-bedroom reversed in order to do this. But apartment atfair market rent in we at the Coalition for the Cincinnati. Homeless believe that it can be Because ofthe state ofthe done. economy, many people are living Andy Erickson in poverty. Because ofthe Andy, state of the economy, many Thanks for your return people can~ find jobs. email. I was really happy to hear Because ofthe state of the from you. I am returning this Your Progressive News Source 8\IYfltOM IAOGfO VfNDOl!S omv Hnrdf :Z/)()J economy, the jobs people email because I don't want you 'it do find often won~ pay a think that I don' t care about the living wage. For many homeless problem that we have people, in times like these, here in Cincinnati. I just believe there is no choice that before I start to panhandle I sometimes but to askfor would give up so much to keep my change on the street. standard ofliving a little bit better I appreciate your than the streets. comments, but I think the When I was makiilg less problems surrounding than twelve dollars an hour it was panhandling are more never a difficult time. I never complex than what you are suffered nor did my children who ,,,.... saying. In your letter, you both are now in college. I was just seem to be arguing that if not willing to spend my money on you were able to make it, parties, cigarettes or fast food. I other people should be able paid market rent, I owned a car, I to make it, too. This argument get a job. " I must not have made had a checking and savings doesn ~ take into account the many this clear in my article: I do have account, and both of my children different circumstances that lead a job. I work at the Greater wore named brand clothes. people to poverty and Cincinnati Coalition for the I grew up in the 60's and panhandling. Nor does it take into 70's. I have seen what it was like. Homeless, where Streetvibes is account the different circumstances My parents had well paying jobs, published I work on their that keep these people from getting and they saw to it that all their Homeless Civil Rights Project. I out ofpoverty. Unexpected dabt, children had college educations so do not panhandle because (fortunately) I don t find myself in loss ofhousing, loss ofjobs, loss of we wouldn' t have to live without a situation where I need to. I work transportation, addiction, - - - - - - - - - - - - - - ­ "It's not drink that with people who do need feelings ofhelplessness and "Just because you only to panhandle from time many other such problems causes p eople to panhandle, to time, though, and I c~ easily make things more as not all panhandlers drink. make seven dollars an hour difficult for one person than , • write from that doesn 't mean you have to another. Getting out of It s not laziness that causes perspective. panhandle or beg for money to Also, /feel poverty and offthe streets people to panhandle, as not comfortable placing the often requires navigation all panhandlers are lazy. It's make a living. " around enormous obstacles. blame on the state ofthe For someone to ''just get a poverty that turns people to best ends up first best. economy. The current minimum job ,, is often difficult, and panhandling, as all Andy, do you panhandle wage is $5.15 per hour. because you don' t look like you are Throughout most of the 60s and sometimes not enoug~. . panhandlers live in poverty. " You also menllon m making more than twelve dollars an 70s, minimum wage 'could keep a y our letter that "all you see are But I have seen the effects of family of three out ofpoverty. hour? poverty. People back then had Mrs. Juanita E. ifynn Today such a family is 24% below dnmks and dirty men " on the street. This is a stereotype. Not all more pride about themselves. You Mrs. Jfynn, the poverty line. The cw:rent panhandlers have an alcohol First ofall, I want to thank unemployment rate in the nation may have been poor but you were problem. Those that do will clean and you didn't beg openly. y ou f or your letter. It 's always right now is the highest it :S· been certainly have a rougher time good lo hearfrom our readers ­ You did odd jobs around the since 1994. Housing costs in gelling out ofpoverty. Addiction is neighborhood to help keep your . even if they disagree with what Cincinnati are nearly 15% higher we 're saying. I also want to say self-respect. than they were last year. A p erson a disease andpeople who experience addiction need help to Now, I know that things happen and they could happen to National Ho.meless Civil Rights Organizing end ii. Punishing or chastising p eople who have addiction anyone. There has always been a Project (NHCROP) problems will not help them. problem with the economy since 1506 Elm Street It's not drink that causes the world began, but you can't let people to panhandle, as not all that take you under. I feel instead Cincinnati, OH 45202 panhandlers drink. It's not of panhandling from time to time, homelesscivi lrights@yahoo.com laziness that causes people to get a part time job from time to (513) 421-7803 panhandle, as not all panhandlers time. Panhandling doesn't pay as are lazy. It's poverty that turns much so a part time job shouldn't people to panhandling, as all be that bad. If a person can deal panhandlers live in poverty. Only with being in the cold, beat, and by decreasing the amount of for a few dollars from Permanent Housing for formerly homeless people who live in poverty will we rain begging, then a part time job be able to reduce the amount of individuals at 1300 Vine Street. should be heaven. p eople askingfor money on the You have a full time job For more information, call Agnes Mack at street. It 's something that will take but is it really enough? What Ed Note: The following is an email dialogue between Andy Erickson, author oflast month's article on panhandling and Jaunita E. ifynn, Streetvibes reader. .. I just read the story that Andy Erickson wrote concerning the panhandling problem and was a bit concerned about his views as to why a person has to panhandle. Just because you only make seven dollars an hour doesn't mean you have to panhandle or beg for money to make a living. If you have a desire for a better way of living, panhandling will not be a choice for you. If you are getting help for Hamilton County and panhandling, too, you are breaking the law because those funds have to be reported. You can make it on less than twelve dollars per hour. I did for years with two children and I have never panhandled. Andy, stop placing the blame on the state of the economy and just get a job. It's not a stereotype to say they drink and are lazy when all you see are drunks and dirty men sleeping on the sidewalk. Your panhandlers spend over forty hours a day begging on the street instead of spending forty hours filling out job applications. A part time job is better than no job any day. What starts out second that it's remarkable that you were able to raise two children on less than $12 an hour. I'm sure it must have been difficult al times. You say in your letter that I should "stop placing the blame on the state ofthe economy andjust s treetVibes ... . buddy's place (513) 784-0800 > �STREETVIBES Page 7 April, 2003 happens when you run short from time to time? Will you panhandle? I know that times are tough for some more than others. I know that shelters are full of people who have medical problems and families that have fallen into some misfortune. I donate food and clothing all the time. The condition that creates poverty and keeps people in poverty is the greed ofman. Ask our mayor why he hasn't been more pro-active in t he homeless problem in Cincinnati. Why do11't we have enough low income housing for our poor? But we build more condos for the rich where the poor used to live. You will never be able to end poverty. It will never go away and neither will panhandling. It is an on going job. What gets me is the ones that smell and drink. They can't stand up and they beg me for money that J have worked hard for. I don 't want to see nasty, dirty men laying around on the ground begging me for anything. Now, t-0 help a homeless family? Yes. To help the Coalition for the Homeless? Yes. To help the Free Store? Yes. I give back as much as I can now that I make more that $15· an hour because you have to give back. But to aid a panhandler? No. Once again, thanks for getting back. And your work and fight to help the homeless is commendable. This city needs more people like you. I just don't like the idea of panhandling substituting a job no matter what the pay. Take care Andy~ I'm wishing you all the best in your fight to help the poor. Mrs. Juanita E. Wynn Mrs. Jfynn, I think I understand where you 're coming.from a little better now. I agree that having a job is better - in almost all situations - than panhandling. I don't recommend that someone start paf_!handling rather than getting a traditional job. The point I want to stress is that some people don't have much choice but to panhandle - because the jobs aren 't there. You say that ''you can 't let the economy bring you down, ,, but in times like these, people will sometimes be brought down no matter how hard they fight to stay out of poverty. For a lot ofpeople, a part-time job would be heaven, but even a part-time job can be hard to get. Searching environment. I have to admit that I had for a job costs money - busfare, a strong family backing. I had for example - and ifyou have no friends and family to give me an income, you might need to example and let me see that you panhandle for that money. can make it. Even though I was a Mrs. Jfynn, ifyou don't want to give money to spoiled child, I am a strong woman panhandlers, you don't have to. by nature and I wanted more than my parents could give me. I didn't Its your right to say no, just like it s their right to askfor money. care how hard I had to work, just Just keep in mind that a lot of as long as I met my goal. I guess I forgot about the those people on the street ­ drinkers or not - are 11ying _- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - ­ to get to a better life, but it "I guess I forgot about the can be a hard road to travel. .• . . • might not be able true conditions that life can we to find a way to end all put a person in. The beat ­ downs that poor people have t t k d .1 Th t I 0 a e a1 [V. e men a pain offailure. Being between a rock and a hard place. I do understand " po~er1y. But w~1h the p~oper actions and allltudes. I m confident we can find a way 10 greatly reduce it. Volunteering and donating to agencies that.fight againsL poverty are great ways to help, and l 'm encouraged to hear that you are doing these things. Sometime, you might want to also L1y talking to the people who panhandle on the street. They could tell you a lot of things themselves. Andy Erickson · Andy, You are right about not having enough money to even try to get a job, or catch the bus or buy clothes to go on an interview. I do understand that. When you have nothing and no one to extend a helping band, it is so hard to stay focused. When you live in an area where all you see is drugs and alcohol it's hard to stay positive. People get caught up in their true conditions that life can put a person in. The beat - downs that poor people have to take daily. The mental pain offailure. Being between a rock and a hard place. I do understand. Panhandlers give true homeless people a bad rap. I do think, however, that the men and women who do panhandle need the same type of education on how to handle life's ups-and-downs as every one else. If they want to drink and drug don't ask any one to support your habit. People in general need to be more informed on the homeless issue, and on how to help. Then the misrepresentation ofthe homeless will no longer happen. Our cify officials need to address the issue more in their meetings. The leaders need to take a stand and help the poor men and women with medical needs who can't think for themselves. The only issues we see and hear about are the issues surrounding the panhandlers and what laws we have set up to keep them out of downtown. What about the stories of the families with children who go to school every day and have to return to a_ shelter? What about the elderly who walk around cold and hungry with no were to go? One day about 10 years ago at night on my way to work, I saw this old Lady standing in a doorway on 6th street where CVS is now. It was so cold and the wind was really blowing hard and to top it off it was snowing. There she was holding all she had trying to stay warm. And to beat all, she had to use the bathroom. I took her to my job and got her some hot chocolate and let her use the bathroom. I wanted to get her a room at a nearby hotel but she wouldn't let me. So I called the police to take her to a shelter because I could not take it that she ::. would be out in the cold. I cried all night. She could have been my family member. She could have been yours. My heart goes out to the true homeless people, but panhandlers I just can't see it. Cincinnati as a whole should take a stand on helping the poor. Mrs. Juanita E. Wynn "That :S· nothing. I can make my ·whole paycheck disappear just by standing in the supermarket checkout line." �- STREETVIBES April, 2003 Page 8 l2isnatch:>from Portland .& Trespassing Laws Against Homeless Intensified , on the street. In the end it punishes people for being homeless." The Portland Police This is not the first time Department recently announced policies criminalizing the homeless plans to intensify enforcement of have been implemented in Portland. trespassing laws on Oregon The camping ban in 2001 and the Department ofTransportation sit-lie-stand ordinance of 2002 are lands. Senior neighborhood two projects Mayor Vera Katz has Officer Jeff Myers presented the project he developed to homeless overseen. At the meeting, Myers indicated that increasing pressure activists at JOIN headquarters, a on trespassers oflands along the 1­ local organization that works to 405 corridor would reduce car bridge the gap between homeless prowls near those areas. and housed members ofour community, on Janunary 15. Audience members said People found on Oregon they appreciate the efforts Myers took in meeting with them and DOT lands will be given warnings and entered intQ a Police database. hope to build an ongoing dialogue. Iffound in these areas- again they "Building relationships with allies is will receive criminal trespass II easy. Building relationships with someone who disagrees is difficult citations with potential fines ofup to $600. but not impossible," said Steel J Fixler, director ofoperations and The action raised concerns among homeless activists that large organizational development for numbers ofpeople will be displaced Sisters of the Road, a grassroots and pushed into downtown organization that empowers poor and homeless people by providing business doorways. This situation could aggravate an already strained opportunities to work. An Oregon Department of relationship between downtown Transportation spokesperson David businesses and the homeless Thomson was unaware ofthis community. "It is wrong," said Rob project but did say the Oregon Justus, executive director of JOIN. Department ofTransportation did "Its timing could not be worse. We not initiate it. Mr. Thomson are anticipating a lot more people expressed concerns about syringes and other garbage being left in New York City discussing plans for these areas. He said that it is a a major league baseball team to come to Portland. Three of the hazard to both traffic and the proposed sites for a $400,000,000 people cleaning up. Sleeping under a freeway stadium,.would be over or next to overpass is not ideal, but some the I-405 corridor. people have no alternative. "A lot "Time and again law of homeless people are enforcement and city officials tell overwhelmed by the challenges of us that these laws will direct people getting off the street, and now the experiencing homelessness through state1s slamming the door shut on the community court system and to some ofthe few opportunities left," social services that will get them said Bob Durning, a former pro­ off the streets," said Rachel baseball player experiencing Langford, a volunteer with homelessness. "I guess the city crossroads. "At the same time they thinks it 1s easier to chase us out of admit that these social services are overburdened, under-funded, and town. Problem is we got no place to go." unable to meet the needs of many "Sleeping should not be homeless citizens." against the law. The lack ofsleep When contacted by Street leads to psychosis and Roots newspaper Myers declined hallucinations," said Jeff comment and referred questions to Sgt. Brian Schmautz, Portland Roundtree, himself.formerly homeless. "Sleep deprivation was Police Department 1s public used as a torture technique by relations officer. Schmautz said Japan on P.O.W's during WWII. this is not a part ot a solution to This law does not address the root homelessness. He said he was not cause ofany problems. It just aware who was trespassing on shifts them to other areas." ODOT land, nor was he aware of Jamie Manuel, project any data directly connecting associate for crossroads continues, homeless with larcenies. However "Resources for the poor are he said, "I have talked with officers overloaded. One night last winter and most perceive a connection 445 people requesting shelter were between transients and larcenies."· turned away." Crossroads teaches When asked if concentrated people to organize and peacefully enforcement in these areas will would like to advertise in out simply move people to other areas, advocate for their sisters and paper, we offer v~.cy comp~titive brothers. During the wihter Schm.autz said, '.'I don•t know, I rates for ads that reach about months there are only 630 cannot predjct the future." 15,000 people per month. emergency shelter beds available Activist Christian Parenti OU.r dream voloo~eer would for those seeking shelter. comments, "The government has a be a self-motivated volunteer that choice, either treat people well or A one-time street count would :like to fundraise for our . conducted last April by JOIN. incarcerate them." Jerry Martin, orga.aizaiion. This could ipclude showed 1,672 people sleeping also formerly homeless said, "Well ask'ing your friends and family for outside. Asked about the impact of it looks like the city ofPortland is donations to researching and displacement, law enforcement moving toward sheltering the poor writing grants for our excellent officials told crossroads that their in jail. Although this solution is progra!TI.Sjob is to enforce the law within probably the most expensive, it TheStreetvibes newspaper does have the allure of not Th-ere are numerous project~ always in need of people their jurisdiction. 'They do not consider themselves responsible for · requiring much thought." opportuniti.es for volunteers at the interested in connecting with the displacing the homeless into other This news report is reprinted Gremer Cincinnati Coalition for vendors and helpil)g them write courtesy ofStreet Roots newspaper neighborhoods. the H omeless. · we are willing to articles on socialjustjce/povercy in Portland, OR. Ultimately it is the police work with each individual in issues, poetry, or personal stories. , commissioner, Mayor Vera Katz, choosing a set'Vice opportunity w~ need help in the The fi rst principle of non-violent who is responsibJe for police that is righJfor them. The afternoons at the.front desk, action is that of non-cooperation policies. Mayor Katz was not following are a few of the areas in answering pl\ones and h~dling with e'Verything humiliating. available for comment, she was in Cesar Chavez which the €oalition. could use transactions with our Streetvihes your help: Vendors. This person wiij address Designing~ web site for ., the needs ofvisitors, having direct Local Schizophrenia/Schizo-affective our National Ci~'Rights contact }\Tith homeless individuals Research Study Organizing Project. ThiS would and should be available one include working with the afternoon a w~ek. ,. . Financial Compensation Americorp Vista volunteers on how . There 1s.al~ays ane~~ for · to pre:vent further criminalization · ~elp wit.b:bulk mailings. M~hgs ofhomeless individuals as well as mcludethe annual report, quarterly 45 years and over preventing the increasing hate n~wsletter, arid various capitol «rimes against tliem,. ' crunpaigns. Symptoms ofdepression To erihance our Streetv.ibes Ifyeu are interested in :volunteeO,ng at the Greater program, we are searching for 13 visits volunteers to s.olicit advertisements Cineinnati Coalition for the (513) 861-31 00 ext4187 from local businesses. Ifyour Homeles~, please _c?ntact the offiee business or a business you know of at 421-7803, or visit us at 150~ or toll free (888) 267-7873 ext 4187 Elm Street in Qver-the~Rh,ine. by DanNewth ...--.--.....-.......--.--.....--.,...-.......,,....,.-.....-.....-.....~-.....~--..,..-.....-.....-.....-...,.-.....-.....~.....----. ./ Cincinnati Coalition·:for the Homeless * * * * �STREETVIBES April, 2003 Page 9 I We Can Be Proud! Judge MARK PAINTER Ohio Court of Appeals The Most-Published Hamilton County Judge Ever! ~- Fighting Over Dirt - The War you would have others do unto Inside by Brian Garry War within War without War without a face War without end, Amen. Why do people fight? What are we fighting for? All things, all material things, comes from dirt, from the Earth. Nothing is made or brought here from outer space, so it all comes from the soil, from dirt. So why is the Federal Government fighting over oil, dirt. Money is liken to dust. All this war is dirty. It is soiled it is stained. Dirt is land and there is dirt in the heart of this American land. It's all one attack. There is one problem and one solution. Humans have two emotions: love and fear. Am I being loving or fearful right now? Collectively as a country and as a world we have collective emotions. I must conquer the war within first before I got out and expect peace in the world. How can I expect peace outside if I don't have peace inside? Collective fear and hate and collective love, trust and good will. It's our choice. The fear causes people to act selfishly and self-centeredly and inconsiderate of others. Others then react fearfully and selfishly and a vicious cycle in then tn effect. Injustice is caused by fear: generally people not trusting, taking from others to provide for their own physical or emotional security. People want dirt (land), material things oil, cars, money etc. (all of which comes out of the land). Why are we fighting over things? There is enough dirt for everybody. Why do I need a car? Why do I need oil? As within, so without. The exterior war is only a manifestation ofthe internal war in each of us. If each of us were at peace then the world would be at peace. No? " As you sow, so. shall you reap." What about "tum the other cheek", "do unto others as you", "Love your enemies?" "Forgive 7 X 7 times"? This is supposedly a Christian country and these are Biblical Christian principles. Would you have "others" bomb you? So why is the American Federal Government concerned about Iraq at all? Is it because a madman is in power? Or because they have nuclear warheads? The US seems to have these same problems. Perhaps the US should attack itself Why is it OK for America to bomb people but it i.s not OK for the Palestinians? Bonibs are bombs, killing is killing. Is America concerned about human rights violations in Iraq? Why didn'tAmerica go and intervene in Rwanda when Hutus and Tutsis were hacking each other to death with machetes. Could it be because there is no oil in Rwanda? Are we freedom fighters or terrorists? We found the enemy and the enemy is us. The Bush administration is scared s@#$less and they're gonna get us all in trouble if we don't stop them. Does anyone under the sun really believe that Bush is concerned with helping the peasants in Iraq? Is he not concerned with what he and his family have always been conc.erned with? Big Oil, getting more and more oil and money = greed. Gandhi said that religion is supposed to take us into the world (politics) not make you make you withdraw from it. "Until the color of a man 's skin is ofno more significant than the color of his eyes, there will be war" - Emperor Haile Selassie I. I want to take a good hard look at America, to look it in its guilty eyes and ask it - why is it so damn fearful? Humanity is marching . onward to better things despite the evidence to the contrary. The people ofthis world are turning out in record numbers - 30,000,000 in recent weeks have protested this dirty war. We are waking up and giving our time to save this Earth and turn things around. People have the Power! Our own Judge Mark Painter reached a milestone in November - 250 of his decisions (now 261) have been published nationally. He is the most-published Hamilton County judge ever, and one of the most-published Ohio judges in history. Judge Painter has: • Served on the Court of Appeals for eight years, after 13 years on Municipal Court. His opinions have been recognized as legal precedent more than 2000 times-in cases, textbooks, and encyclopedias. • Written 55 articles on appellate practice, sentencing, DUI, contempt, and legal ethics. He writes a monthly column on legal writing for Ohio Lawyers Weekly. • Taught 91 seminars for judges, lawyers, and police officers, and is an Adjunct Professor of Law at U.C. • Authored the textbook Ohio DUI law, now in its 12th edition. His other book, The Legal Writer: 30 Rules for the Art ofLegal Writing, was published in June. • Is writing two more books to be published this fall: William Howard Taft-President and ChiefJustice and a new edition of Ohio Appellate Practice. www.Judgepainter.org Pa.id for by Tl\'& JUdge Painter Comm~ Gr&g Ruehlmann, Clleir, 312 Walnut St~Cincinnati 18" X 24" poster print: Washington Park, Over­ the-Rhine, Winter 1999. Each print is individually signed by OTR photographer Jimmy Heath. Purchase benefits the children's Literacy Through Photography program at Peaslee Neighborhood Center in Over-the-Rhine. Posters are $10 each, plus $3 for shipping. Send your order and check to: Peaslee Neighborhood Center Attn: Photography Program 215 East Fourteenth Street Cincinnati, Ohio 45202 or call (513) 621-5514 for more information �STREETVIBES April, 2003 Cover Story Page 10 ReSTOC .... Cont. from page 1 organization is run. ReSTOC's by­ laws call for at least 51 % of the board to be tenants. Other board members come from the wider community, with broad backgrounds, for example, a high school teacher, an electrician, a college professor, an employee of a large multinational corporation. The fees tenants pay into ReSTOC stay in the community. The co-op fees pay for maintenance, salaries ofthe staff, the utility bills for the common areas ofthe buildings, taxes, insurance and other costs. Tenants can see where their money goes, into their own buildings, not into the pockets of someone they do not know. ReSTOC serves people from all backgrounds, many of whom have limited resources. A longtime ReSTOC member, recently said "I live on a limited income, getting by paycheck to paycheck, I wouldn't know what I'd do without ReSTOC. " Three of ReSTOC's properties are reserved for people with specific needs. Recovery Hotel, with twenty units of transitional housing, is for men in the process of recovering from the diseases of alcoholism and other addictions. All residents of Recovery Hotel have been through a program to help them overcome their addictions before being A building in the Vine Street Development Project, at the corner of Republic Street and 15th, in Over-the-Rhine. accepted for an apartment. While making their homes at Recovery Hotel, they attend daily·meetings of AA or NA to continue their recovery and strengthen their chances of overcoming the huge obstacles they face. One half block north of Recovery Hotel, on Vine Street, is buddy splace, also with twenty units. It is reserved for people who have been homeless, most being referred directly from local shelters. ReSTOC owns a building occupied by Joseph House, a program for Veterans of the United States Armed Services. The remainder of ReSTOC's properties are market rate apartments with low rents for people of limited means. ReSTOC accepts people who hold Section 8 vouchers, which allows the tenant to pay a lower rent with the balance subsidized through the Section 8 program. One way ReSTOC 's co-op fees are kept low is by using the help ofthousands they simply want to help. One regular volunteer is the international services director of a world wide service organization. He has traveled the world helping others in his everyday work, but he volunteers many weekends at ReSTOC because he wants to make a difference in a local community as well. For many of the young people coming downtown from the suburbs or small towns volunteering provides them with an opportunity to interact, communicate with and learn from people they don't normally meet. Any stereotypes they may have are frequently challenged by their work in Over-the-Rhine. ReSTOC co-op members also learn from the volunteers by working with the volunteers as crew leaders, taking a small group ofvolunteers to work on a task for the day. ReSTOC has frequently been accused of"stockpiling" buildings in Over-the-Rhine and preventing development ofthe neighborhood. Nothing could be further from the truth. In fact, ReSTOC only owns 2% of the property in Over-the-Rhine. There -· Donna Richards, from the City ofCincinnati Department ofDevelopment and Planning on a recent "walk through" · ofthe Vine Street Community Development project. of volunteers. Miss Jane, a longtime ReSTOC tenant and OverThey he\p the-Rhine resident. ReSTOC are hundreds ofbuildings, both perform normal maintenance such as cleaning lots, landscaping and occupied and.vacant, owned by many others. None of the other cleaning and painting apartments property owners are blamed for after a tenant leaves. Some volunteer groups have "adopted" a the plethora ofneighborhood abandonment issues that long single apartment or an entire predated ReSTOC's existence. building, providing not only the labor to renovate units, but also the ReSTOC has moved slowly and steadily through the years to materials and supplies needed for develop its properties while always their project. striving to maintain a presence in Volunteers come from all the market place for the people of over tile Cincinnati Metropolitan Cincinnati who have the least area as well as places such as resources. There is ·room for Dayton, Wapakoneta and beyond. everyone, the poor that ReSTOC Some groups come from Illinois, serves, as well as every other rung Michigan and Tennessee. They come from high schools and church ofthe economic ladder. As ReSTOC celebrates its groups, others from colleges. twenty fifth birthday, it is not Some come as individuals because > �STREETVIBES April, 2003 content to stand for the status quo. It is currently participating with the City of Cincinnati, the State of Ohio and private investors to use Low Income Housing Tax Credits to develop twenty five units of housing in five buildings, four on Vine Street and one on Republic Street. The development is called the Vine Street Community Project. Construction began in May of2002 and is scheduled to be complete at the end of2003. Affordable Housing Construction, Inc. is the general contractor. Roger Sexton, one of the partners ofAffordable Housing, Inc. recently stated, "we have the same aims as ReSTOC; to provide safe, decent, affordable housing and "to preserve the old buildings." At all stages of construction and rehab of each building, there are regularly scheduled "walk throughs" attended by the general contractor, the city of Cincinnati, the architect, and ReSTOC representatives. Each "walk through" affords all parties involved the opportunity to ensure that what is being funded is actually being done. What is being done is remarkable. Each building is gutted of all old systems, abated for lead and asbestos hazards, and rebuilt with new plumbing, electrical) heating and central air conditioning systems. Sections of the buildings are rebuilt where there had been water damage and up to date smoke and fire alarm systems are being added. Recently, Cincinnati City Councilman David Pepper toured the project. One of the many questions he asked, after seeing how much progress had been made, was, "where do I sign up?." ReSTOC tries to take a holistic approach to its involvement in the community. It has worked to provide green space for the neighborhood by organizing the Pleasant Street Garden in which raised planting beds can be rented; some neighbors grow vegetable gardens, others grow flowers, other grow both. The Civic Garden Center collaborates with ReSTOC to manage the Pleasant Street Garden as well as the Children's Garden on Race Street. Residents on Republic Street meet regularly at ReSTOC around issues that affect their lives and to plan activities to better their living environment. For example, each year, the Republic Street Block Club has several clean up days to clear out the trash on the vacant lots, most of which are owned by others, including the City of Cincinnati. ReSTOC also built and maintains the "Superheroes Playground" on Republic Street. As I walk through the neighborhood that I now call my home, and I hear the discussions about the need for development, I know that ReSTOC is helping to lead the way for revitalization of Vme Street in Over-the-Rhine. This year, ReSTOC celebrates 25 y ears ofworking in the Over-the-f!.hine community developing safe, affordable housingfor our neighborhood families. It has struggled to do this on minimal funding. As the organization moves forward into its next twenty five years, it plans to celebrate its accomplishments on April 27 with a fundraising dinner at Elder High School. Anyone interested in joining the celebration should contact Melissa at ReSTOC by calling 381-1171 for more information or to make a reservation. Donations may also be made direclry lo ReSTOC lo 114 West 14th Street, Cincinnati, OH 45202. Streetvibes Wish List is published monthly ona ~hoe-.st.ring budget from the offices of the Greater Cmcinnatj Coalition for the Homeless. Can you help us with S,O!JW· of the following items? Streetvib~ new·spap er o Blank CD-RW Disks - For Stree!Yihes Archives o Supplies forVendor 's Lounge (page.rtowels~ cream ana sugar~ $nacks, etO:). o Office and-Cleaning Supplies If you can help, contact us a(: Streetvibes, c/o Greater Cincinnati Coalition for the Homeless 1506 Elm Street, Cincinnati, OH 45202 {513) 421-7803 e-mail: streetvibes@juno.com Page 11 The Peace Village is happening with "your" seeds in this major peace effort qf ours. I The Peace Village continues know that peace work, at our local to inspire me with so many gifts levels, has real meaning, changes from our team members. I want to ourselves and others into thinking share these with you as examples with greater clarity and hope about of an ongoing peace process that growing peace in our own areas. persists at an' unprecedented time Hearing about your efforts, even of terror. Yesterday, I sat with the new and fledging ones, adds beauty and color to what is a other members of a little peace process of caring that is powerful. support group called, "Peace I do not know what has slowed the Keepers." The Rev. Ray war machine in Washington down Wooddruff, another activist that is approaching 90, if he hasn't passed other than the increasing loud that age, opened our meeting with concerns of the peace movement. I a full agenda of concerns about do not know what has opened the how we could "resist" when the possibility ofa fundamental change in policing and war starts. He brought wonderful materials to community responsibility other hold a workshop .with us if we had little to than our local peace movement for a just talk about that was agreement, an more pressing. And, so this question floated agreement that stops around the group as we • the killing ofAfrican heard about Cincinnati . Americans and the Dr. Steve Sunderland reckless treatment of .and world plans to police and communities. meet at Spm at our Federal I don't want to ignore that I Building to show solidarity against the war, joining others in the world am scared about what is facing us who would be using Spm as some as a city and a nation. I live in a local "hot spot," in a country about kind ofrallying time. to make the world a "hot spot." I This is the first time in my life that I have asked myself this am afraid that too litt le is being question and thought about some done too late and that my efforts are only empty gestures, grandiose, choices for what I would like to do. I was inspired that people and ignoring the reality of what is truly out of my control. I am were already working on this question, seeking to find steps that scared for my children and might return peace to the world. I grandchildren and what kind of asked the same question today at world and city they are facing. As the morning service ofthe Clifton a trauma specialist I know that United Methodist Church and wounds from hatred and violence heard that the church would be are not easily coped with no matter open the evening of the attack for what age we are when they happen. community participation, thanks to So much seems on the line right team member, Reverend Jerry Hill. now, as humiliation and behaviors ofviolence seem to be ascending Reverend Bob Weaver, team member from Twin Towers and the voices of compromise, repair, and justice get lost in the Retirement Community told me he anticipation's ofglobal horror. I · would work to have the chap~l open for the. community, too. I am not comforted by false gods, false movements based on would be interested if other ignorance, or, comforted by .members ofthe Peace Village wilt be making plans and ifyou could bashing anyone, including the share them and I will send the info president. The success ofthe· to others. I know that some of our peace movement, to this point, is team have children in the armed historic and nonetheless, we face forces and they are either being the bullets and violence ofthe unknown. readied and/ or already in the Middle East. I want to be in I am comforted by what the support of these members of the Peace Village is doing and I want Peace Village, too. I remember the to share, now, what I am reading great lesson ofthe summer meeting and hearing you do. I share not with the Vets for Peace that said only because you are educating me in the planting of a peace they were not "welcomed" home after the Vietnam War or when they movement, or, because by sharing I joined the peace movement. can gain some momentary Yet, there are lots of distraction. I share because the inspiring signs, both here and efforts at peace are the threads of the present and future that tie me around the world of our Peace Vtllage, that the seeds are being into a coat of hope, a shawl of possibility, and warm me with your planted ahd nurtured. I want to encourage everyone to share what by Steve Sunderland �Page 12 · April, 2003 Peace Village (cont) over Zach :s entire project, his father was very moved and ve1y efforts. proud ofhis son. A child's heart Lisette writes from the Netherla"nds, from Doctors Without can teach us all. (ed. note; Zach s poem, MY ENEMY, MY FRIEND is Borders, that over 100,000 names included in the poetry section, are on a petition for the doctor missing in Russia. I hope you have page 14 and 15.) Team member, Paul Davis, joined this effort. We await further Cincinnati counselor, social news ofthe doctor's life chances. Thanks Lisette. worker, Vietnam Vet, returned to the place where he stepped on a Rabbi Naamah Kelmen, land mine. Paul writes: Jerusalem, Hebrew Union College, "Tomorrow I hope to find the site writes of a breakthrough in planning to use Posters 4 Peace where I was wounded in 1966". I with rabbinical students and a high was wounded and one American school in Jerusalem. I hope this is was killed by a land mine (one of ours that was captured by the the beginning ofa great exchange "enemy.") Over the past few days I with some our students in Cincinnati and throughout the US . have been composing a poem Eventually, with the addition of (using a structure common to Islamic youth, I hope we can have Vietnamese poetry) - I use the a peace conference using our voice of the mine.to capture the posters as a beginning. Thank you moment. (Please see Pauls poem in the poetry section ofStreetvibes) Naamah for your brave work. Team member, Shine, Team member, Karen writes from a NY hospital of Hordinski, Cincinnati Hills · gaining strength in calling up the Christian Academy, writes ofher words ofGandhi, a spirit that lives unusual family member. Please in her: "The good part of my read and be in awe, too: Hi Steve; journey...people! So many I have something I want to encounters with people who share with you and see ifyou have needed so much but were help~d by any direction. ..My 10 year old so little ... a smile, a patient ear, a nephew, Zachary Karabatak, from friendly voice. There were Centerville, Ohio chose to c(o an moments of peace and for moments Independent Research Projectfor that were a little more his school. The topic he chose is challenging...breathing came in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. very handy... " Ofall ofher Gandhi My nephew is Muslim. His father quotes, the one that I especially is from Syria. His mother like is: "For me, humanitarian converted to the Muslim faith from service, or rather serVi<?e of all that Christianity about 7+ years ago. lives, is religion and I draw no So this project has deep meaning distinction between such religion to Zach and his parents. When and politics." So much ofthis Zach first started this school battle for peace has been within the project, his father thought Zach language ofreligion, a language was being partial to the Israelis that polarizes and calls on deep and was very upset. After looking wellsprings in many people. Shine .... 4 J ~ <;. We left flushed with reality: our sees something very important by work made visible arid thereby, quoting Gandhi's perspective: she somewhat more caring. sees that.t here is a deeper religion Finally, some good words within both politics and religion. from team member, Ed Irvin, now· How do we reach for this, with off to England for a while, but respect, and widen our understanding of a prime source of connected to the pulse of compassion: You've identified an energy in all religions? interesting and potentially critical I was taken aback by some of my graduate student co-teachers insight when you say that we shy away from studying and discussing last week in class as they decided to "welcome" the voices of dissent. peace. We talk about "studying war no more" and all the other A team of co-teachers drew a anti-war diches, but you are "soap box" on the floor of the correct, I don't recall ever classroom with duct tape and invited any and all to come forward participating in an exercise to and share, to get off their chests "imagine peace" and actually what was hidden there, waiting for thinking through what that would entail nor how it might be encouragement. And so we did, with applause following each organized. Competition, anxiety, frustration, fear, and the battles that presentation. Out exploded the frustrations connected with doing result seem to be natural·human tendencies (original sin some good work in social work as resources are being drastically cut, would say, though I'm not a proponent ofthat terminology). workloads unilaterally increased, Peace, love, forgiveness, and hours extended, and shame about turning the other cheek when productivity not being met in this offended are not as easy to do. We new climate. Cutting into many can talk about them, but even in people who spoke was a common peace communities there are theme of having to face, day after day, the culture's humiliation about competitive schisms - just look at the history ofthe Christian church, working with the poor, the for example. Living in a "godly disabled, the needy, and the manner" takes tremendous effort homeless. The thin shield that protected these new workers, many on behalfof all participants, and a spoken and unspoken contract in their 40s and older,_is no:w gone that's very hard to create and as the state retrenches and life is sustain. even more precarious for those in greatest need. This story, ofthe Perhaps this is something the Peace Village can undertake. It war before the war, the old war, may be that, above al1, we need a needed voice and as people gained model to follow. Let's imagine confidence, a ki:nd ofcourage, a restoring of the.faith in what peace together... "Imagine there's no countries, Gandhi meant by love, was slowly It isn't hard to do, restored. We went around the Nothing to kill or die for, circle twice, finding deeper levels of story, good sto.ries that could be . No religion too, . better to listen to than the anger. Imagine all the people Photo Corner living life in peace..." Dr. Steve Sunderland, professor of Social Work at the University of Cincinnati, is the Director of The Peace Village, a group of individuals from the national and international community committed to examining all issues ofPeace in the world Dr. Sunderland also heads up Posters­ /or-Peace which engages people in expressing their visions ofPeace, in their own words, through the creation ofposl.ers. Write Usl _... We'd like to hear ..• from you .... Smitty's on Vine Street in Cincinnati's Over-the-Rhiii.e business district is an institution with a SO-plus year history of providing Cincinnatian's and others the very latest in snazzy, unique, one-of-a-kind, unparalleled fashion. Even the.windows ofSmitty's are smartly dressed! _... ~ STREETVIBES Send letters or comments to: Streetvibes@Juno.com, or write the Coalition office att.n: . Streetvibes Letters, i506 Elm Street Cincinnati, Ohio 45202 �STREETVIBES April, 2003 Page 13 Ohio Empowerment Coalition Organizes To Living Wage took me down another long Stop The .Race to the 'B ottom they Campaign hallway to another room and interrogated me on my mental on an escalator or an elevator by Lynn Williams News health. 'Do you ever feel before. We made it to speak Seventy Ohio Empowerment Coalition members climbed the long stairs to Senate President Doug White's Statehouse office on OEC's annual Lobby/Action Day March 11th. Because of our large number, his office moved our people to a nearby Senate hearing room where Senator White came out to greet us. Leaders in the OEC spoke on points in the OEC and presented him with a WAGES "race car". The race car, calling attention to one of the Senator's most loved hobbies, demonstrated the "race to the bottom" that families in Ohio are facing. The Senator agreed to meet with the Ohio Empowerment Coalition the next week to discuss the WAGES ("Work After Good Education is Success.") Campaign. He acknowledged that he lived in one of the poorest areas of Ohio, Adams County, and that many of his neighbors were hurting. "I'm aware of the deep poverty in my county." he stated. The OEC called on him to not only meet with the Ohio Empowerment Coalition but also to visit with families in his district who are affected by the state cutbacks in social services and Medicaid. Immediately after the action on White's office, the OEC members dispersed to attend many Lobby Day appointments with their legislators. For this Lobby Day we had representation from Cincinnati, Dayton, Oxford, Cleveland, Columbus, Adams Coi:mty, Athens, Lorain, Clermont County and Toledo. Pushing our WAGES Platform was the.main purpose of the Day, but urging was also done to stop the cuts in Medicaid for working parents and in child care vouchers. Later that evening at the conference, ~eynote speaker Shirley McClain , statewide. organizer of North Carolina Hunger Network, spoke of her work on behalf of the Nutrition Act of 2002 and her work ensuring that low-income children are fed in school programs across the United States. She shared how she began organizing low-income women in her state. "I took twenty-five women to Congress. This was the first time they had ever been to Washington, D .C. For some, it was the first time they had ever been out of North Carolina. They had never ridden paranoid? Do you ever feel before Congre~s and it made a anxious.' Yes, I was thinking, difference!" She continued to especially about how you are speak on today's issues. "We interrogating me now. It felt like need to be fighting a war on the Gestapo coming after me. I poverty in this country, not a war had to go through all this in order on Iraq. We must unite the war to get the cash assistance that I protesters with us so we can desperately needed because of a together fight to end poverty in job loss. I felt like I was treated as this country!" less than a human being. It She concluded, "We shouldn't have to be this cannot be quiet and polite in the dehumanizing to get help." face of our people's suffering! We need to be outraged! As long The second day was a full day of workshops on issues as there is poverty in this rich connected to the WAGES country, we must be outraged! Campaign. Participants We must keep on the struggle to brainstormed on. ideas for moving change things in this country!" Other speakers on opening the Campaign forward. In the night were people directly immediate future the Ohio affected by welfare policies who Empowerment Coalition will be testifying before the House shared how it feels to be in the Human Services Subcommittee welfare department applying for the last week of March. We are help. Priscilla Cooper of positive there will be plenty of Cleveland spoke on her experiences when she applied for opportunity to attend hearings throughout April and May as the assistance in Cuyahoga County. "They sat me down in a room and state budget bill is debated! For started questioning me fast and more information on hearings furiously. 'Do you ever drink? and/or the WAGES Campaign, Smoke? Do drugs? Have you ever please contact the Ohio Empowerment Coalition at 513/ taken another drink when you thought you would only have one? 381-4242. If you are outside the Do you ever have a hard time 513 area code, call toll-free 1­ 877-862-5179. getting up in the morning?' Then February brought support from national arenas when ROCK THE VOTE - comprised of students organizing to get out the vote across the nation, moved to support the campaign. In other national support, the Rainbow/ Push Coalition also lent its considerable influence when it too endorsed the Universal Living Wage Campaign. Today, 700+ organizations have pledged support to the ULW campaign which is based on the moral premise that anyone working a 40 hour week should be able to afford basic rental housing wherever that work is done throughout the United states. The Universal Living Wage initiative is considered the Economic Cornerstone ofthe National Coalition for the Homeless: Campaign to end homelessness- BRING AMERICA HOME. To view the Universal Living Wage formula, endorse the campaign on line and learn details ofour April 15th National Night Out at ·our Nation's Post Offices, go to the Whats New button at www.UniversalLivingWage.org "Money ~ill be raining on wealthy neighborhoods across America. Other areas can expect prolonged periods ofdroughf' �STREETVIBES Art & Poetry April, 2003 Page 14 Calamity Onion Poe,m by Steven Lansky got my onion. my onion, see. a pain. a hurt. pain, maan, see, hurt, see. the man want my onion. i say NO. NO you take pain. take pain. leave my onion. leave my onion alone, see. there's a window. a window, see. don' break no window, see, windowfrarne paint, need to paint my windowframe, see. ain't the same, man. -ain 't the same, man, see, i ain't been the same, pain. pain, man, the pain i feel, man. see, you do n' understand, see. so, i' m leavin '. gonna get on the plane and go away. not gonna live here no more, take my onion an' go, go, see. go away where there ain ' t no pain, see. where, see. where, see, sinners gonna drive me away, so many sinners drive me away, take my onion and go across the sea, where have all th e flowers gone? long time passing? flowers in the w indowbox. cactus flowers on the windowsilL red and pink and purple. lovely bruise. lovely, paint my onion pur ple. by James Curry I once sat upon, a shelf, al dusty and alone. No one cared to call my name, no place could I call home. I once sat lonely and neglected, sitting there all alone. No one stopped, no one looked, no one my pretty hair would_comb. My hair once pretty, my clothes once Oh so delicate, so fine. Had become all dusty, and dirty now, and hard to believe, were mine. My face once porcelain white, and rosy pretty plus. Now became all dirty, and my nose a cake of dust. But then one day, someone stopped and looked. They noticed me hig h upon that shelf Then had me taken down from there, to see fo r myself ..Some Jjttle girl loved me close, a little girl once held me dear." If I could cry I' d shed a tear, fo r bent I am and forgotten. Ifl could smile, I'd smile for her, even through my tears I'd gotten. And so these tears I can afford, for sharing so much with me. Her Life and my departure, were a disaster, as anyone can see. So that is why I'm called ... YOU SEE, they call me " CALAMITY ..." hello? hello? (my fri end hands me a cell phone) it's george W. bush for you ! george? how do i know it's you? dubya for warmonger? yeah, t hat's what i say. he says, "steve, couJd i use your onion for a few days?" no . "steve, you still hanging with that folksinger crowd?" my friend george, W'!- got two words for you. REGIME CHANGE! we want the same thing, just for different countries! lees disarm the USA. let the UN monitor US elections, and inspect US weapons of mass destruction. the phone goes dead. george is gone. gone. he don't know no onion. i had a mad dream that we snuck into the White House and removed the top three floors so there was just an empty shell and dubya was another homeless man. he had to waJk to another town ' cause all of DC was closed. morally bankrupt, socially stratified, politically isolated, and we all sat back, turned off the TV rattle of war and watched the children grow. »'atched the flowers grow. sat around in the onion patch hand in hand, peaceful as the wild city critters, squirrels, raccoons, pigeons, and robins. February 14, 2003 Miss Me .... But Let Me Go Author Unknown When I come to the end of the road, and the sun has set for me, I want no rites in a gloom fi lled room. Why cry for a soul set Free? Miss me ~ little, but not to.o long, and not with your head bowed low. Remember the love that we once shared. Miss me, but let me go . For this is a journey that we all must take, and each must go it aJone. It's all a part of the Master 's Plan, A step on the rainbow to home. When you are lonely and sick of heart, got to the friends we know, and bury your sorrows in doing good deeds, Miss me, but let me go. The Man in the Glass by anonymous When you get what you want when you struggle for self And the world makes you king for a day, Just go to the mirror and look at yourself And see what that man has to ·say. For it isn't your father or mother or wife Whose judgment upon you must pass, the Fellow whose verdict counts most in your life ls the one staring back for the glass. You may be like Jack Horner and chisel a plum And think you' re a wonderful guy, But the man in the glass says you 're only a bum 1f you can't look him straight in the eye. He's the fellow to pleas, never mind all the rest, For he's with you clear up to the end, And you've passed your most dangerous, difficult test If the man in the glass is your friend. You may fool the whole world down the pathway of years And get pats on the back as you pass, But your final reward will be heartache and tears If you've cheated the man the man in the glass. Message From a Black Man by Charles Bailey To all my brothers and sisters Who use drugs and crack and @#it How can you get what you want When you won't quit.using it You blame the white man for all the Things he did and did not do But you put the drugs in your body And it is making a fool out ofyou I'm a black man And my life is filled with nothing but hope I might be able to achieve whatever I want Because my body is not filled with dope But you want to sell this dope to the Brothers and Sisters Because you say you have no shame You let them out it in their systems And now you are destroying your Brothers and Sisters brains So ... Please quit it ! �STREETVIBES April, Art& Poetry ~003 Page 15 Diversity by Wanda (OTR Resident) The money people are attacking my hoine. On the west, they' re tearing down homes and the symphony wants Washington Park, in the name of cultural diversity. On the east, the business men and the rich landlords push for a ballpark and intervening districts, in the name of economic diversity. On the south, the downtown council wants to expand north and change all the streets to two-way, in the name of diversity. Bright morning Summer sun warms the ground. Under a blanket of earth I wait. Arms of wire exposed to the sun. Mindlessly, Marines approach unaware of my presence. Children laugh and play at a distance. Patiently I wait knowing there are others. Shadow ofboot blocks out the sun. As my hands come together I explode. Free from the earth I am transformed. I am wind pushing metal without thought. I meet flesh then bone and stop. Death, my purpose and destiny now complete. Be well - Love to all, Paul My Enemy, My Friend · In the center is my home and yours, the po.o r, working poor, handicapped, homeless, all live and survive, day to day. The powers want diversity. We already have it. They should help, not attack. I will stand up for the right to live where I want, I won't be in the middle of diversity. Inadequate by Zachary Karabatak she makes us all feel free we can't see any wrong she's done but we know why she's in alderson prison god had sent this woman of courage to help calm the fears the women were grateful and so was i she makes me feel worthy as she gets through the day she spoke of a brighter future everyday i thank the creator for introducing her to me it doesn't matter that i am locked up she makes me feel free. Lorry Thomas-Swain by Sonny Williams, London, Ohio prison, April, 1987 We met one day out on the street I never thought our worlds would meet. He said "Hi" and asked me to play. I didn't know ifl should stay or run away. Before I could.decide he kicked me the ball. I kicked it back with no effort at all. We played outside together all day. Until it was time to go our separate way. My parents say he cannot be my friend. But I knew in my heart this was not the end. We are different but we do not hate. We will not accept conflict and war as our fate. We know we can make a difference for tomorrow. If we could just stop the bloodshed and the sorrow. We could be friends forever if there was peace. What can we do to make this fighting cease? Leaders must look to us for the solution. Two states with peace is our resolution. by Lisa Weber It smells like something had just died. Down o'n hands and knees, I search the rug. My fingers rake the plush. Under these nails There is some dirt and blood, but no hope. Shutter ·speed Digital and vacant, a voice reaches me. Solace to silence. It reminds me how close I am, to becoming a simple whore. I want to tear that need from my skin, to expose what lies beneath. It just gets muted by a desperate quiet that even scares me. I bring my knees to the floor, come eye to eye. Rolling and rolling, covering myselfwith something, more pure. Something perhaps, human Protestors at CAFTA meeting (Central American Free Trade Agreement}, downtown Cincinnati.... �ST REETVIBES April, 2003 Seattle's Spare Change Newspaper celebrates ten being challenged. He started years showing up to work late, hung Early struggle turns into success by Timothy Harris When I started Spare Change, I was thirty and thought I knew everything. " Starting a streetpaper," I said confidently, "is easy. Put the homeless in charge, teach skills and democracy, and let empowerment take its course." In less than a year, I was out of a job and on the verge of a nervous breakdown. Spare Change wasn't doing so hot either. The "Tale of the Two Tims" has been told here before. In the early 90s, I was at Boston Jobs with Peace; a little terrier of a group that thought it was a rotweiler. We were just about the grittiest grassroots organization in Boston. Our idea oforganizing for the peace dividend was to hold a three-day tent city ofhomeless people outside the Federal Building. We became expert at the logistics of cots, blankets, soup and security. Our role, we thought, was to make homelessness visible and draw attention to the underlying issues: misplaced federal priorities, scarce affordable housing, and low wage labor. In truth, we mostly staged a series of media events. After awhile, it began to feel like nothing, really, was happening. . We asked ourselves, "what else?" Homeless ·people told us they couldn't sit in the Boston Common without being harassed by cops. Burger King on Tremont refused to serve them at all. We formed the Homeless Civil Rights Project, which initially consisted of college students heading to shelters and soup kitchens in search of documentation. Our strategy was to build a pressure campaign on the basis of affidavits. Oddly, it worked. We got a sadistic cop transferred. We signed a public agreement with Au Bon Pain. We got great press. We looked much bigger than we were. We built a core ofhomeless and formerly homeless people to run the campaign. It wasn' t long before the underside of"empowerment" began to show. The HCRP devolved into a core group of middle-aged alcoholic homeless white men. The leader didn't like News & Editorial honeymoon, stormy ash was, came to an end. Members of the project complained to me, their organizer, about serious problems within Spare Change. The newspaper was being run by the rules ofthe street, with the toughest and most ruthless over, and, inspired by the United people in charge, and that wasn't Mine Workers, wearing combat working out very well. "It's not fatigues. As a peace organization, my role to fix this," I would say. we found this problematic. Into "You need to organize others who this odd assortment of characters think the yvay you do to challenge walked a smart, charismatic homeless man named Tim Hobson. things from the inside." For all my helpful organizing hints, people Being black, he stood out found me pretty useless. immediately. Tim also had the Meanwhile, Tim Hobson single thing that most defines a decided that our various self­ leader: a following. interests were very much at odds, In the late eighties, during and I was informed that my what I now refer to as my "boiled destruction was imminent. Things potatoes and shoplifted cheese" went downhill from there. To sum phase, I edited an obscure Boston publication called Street Magazine. up, Spare Change terminated the relationship with Jobs with Peace. We affected a certain amount of hipness while writing mostly about Tim broke in one night and stole all the computers, and drug addicts poverty issues, and, toward the had access to the bank account. end, even had homeless people selling it on the street.. New York's The results were predictable. By the end, the homeless­ Street News had by that time invented the idea of the streetpaper, led Spare Change was expelled from Boston Jobs with Peace to·go and, though we wouldn't have screw up their own organization. I admitted it at the time, we got the went on unemployment and played street sales idea from them. I a lot of SimCity. To add interest, asked Tim if he'd like to start one I'd print my cities out, glue the out ofthe Civil Right Project. He tiled pages together, and color loved the idea and so did his them in with felt-tip pens. I friends. The problem was, the covered my walls with maps. For leadership of the Civil Rights several months, this became my Project wanted nothing to do with life. them. · Yet, we both survived. This is not the time or place Spare Change had too much for the story of the long, sad, community support to qie. Slowly disintegration ofthe HCRP. and painfully, the newspaper Simply put, the whole thing was horrible, and, if I'd had my head on evolved to adopt a more stable model. I took a variety of straight about "empowerment," more or less avoidable. The lesson organizing odd jobs and soon after moved to Seattle to start over. I should have learned was that if Everything I saw in Boston empowerment goes unmanaged, convinced me that street people get hurt. It would be a few newspapers were the most more years before I got that. powerful tool for homeless I probably should have organizing I had ever seen. I still realized that Hobson was a thought I could do it. I just needed problem leader the day he to not screw things up. threatened to smash a computer Eight years later, Seattle's monitor over my head. In those Real Change is one of the most days, I was a little slo\.\'. on the stable and effective homeless uptake. Nonetheless, we managed organizing projects in North to keep things together for more America. Here's what I learned at than six months. Tim evangelized Spare Change's expense: the good news ofSpare Change Empowerment is for while I led liim and his following everyone. Empowerment is not a througli the process of building a mission and a business plan. I sold private revolution. Decisions constantly need to be evaluated on the ads, produced the paper, kept the basis ofwhether they move the things glued together, and, like a whole organization forward. The good organizer, gave all credit to goal is to build power as a group, the homeless. When the Christian not as individuals. Is it more Science Monitor did a full-page empowering, for example, to have color story on the launch, Tim an unreadable newspaper produced Hobson was cast as the founder. entirely by untrained homeless It wasn't long before the Page 16 people, or to have professionals working with the homeless to produce a quality product? You don't have to answer that. It's a rhetorical question. Power is up for grabs. Organizers should not be deluded about power. My biggest mistake at Spare Change was the decision that, as an organizer, I had to shun formal power. This left behind the scenes m~nipulation as my next best option. My hands-off attitude left a clear field to some very ugly internal politics. Homeless people, I learned, were .often very vulnerable. When confronted by a bully, most will either shut up or leave. I learned that ifl avoided power, others would take what was up for grabs. More often than not, their intentions were not benign. Clear ground rules need to be established and enforced. People need fairness and consistency, and the organizer's job is to make that happen. Homelessness is an economic condition, not an identity. Before we all got screwed up on identity politics no one needed to say this, but here it is: There is nothing especially great about being homeless. Homelessness does not, in and of itself, confer any great wisdom or insight. It is a shattering, degrading experience that far too many people are forced to endure. Homelessness is not an ideal to aspire to. That said, homeless people are often their own best spokespersons. Sometimes, however, homeless people make terrible representatives. Know the difference. This leads me to the biggest insight of all, namely, Homeless people are not alone. The idea that homeless people, acting by themselves, will solve homelessness is simply insane. It takes a lot of people to challenge capitalism. The good news is that plenty of people who have far more personal resources than the homeless are as disgusted as you are. They would love to walk out their door without confronting third world poverty on every street corner. Organizing homeless people is absolutely necessary, but it's not the answer. For that, we need all of us. Timothy Harris is Executive Director of the Real Change newspaper in Seattle, www.realchangenews.org. He can be reached at rchang~peakeasy.org. Streetvibes exists as a forum for the expression ofthe views and opinions ofour readers and supporters. The opinions expressed herein a:re not necessarily those ofthe Streetvibes staffor the Greater Cincinnati Coalition for the Homeless. �STREETVIBES April, 2003 The Ten-Year Plan by Rodney L. Sutton, Sr. , The Evangelist News & Editorial Homes, and having police kick-in my door while I was in class. To be accused of being a drug dealer because I wore suits and carried a briefcase going to and from Cincinnati Bible College. I remember moving to 14th Street between Walnut and Vine, because at least there I was allowed to pursue my goals without opposition even when there was derision. Yet with the support and encouragement from Ms. Arrington a four-inch thick bound folder containing almost fifteen years of an incarcerated life, then you have It was March 23, 1993. I a·picture of what was placed before stood at 2121 Vine Street before Charlie's% House. I looked up at. Ms. Arrington. She declined to look at the offered record. She the warm sun and marveled at the events that had brought me to this simple said, " Let me talk to the man." city of Cincinnati. When I met Ms. Arrington I I was born and raised in learned quickly she was a no­ Akron, Ohio fo what most would nonsense kind ofperson. She came consider a low-to-middle income straight to the point. working family. We were What can you tell me to dysfunctional as most families tend convmceme to be in one form or another. I you are have four siblings and we finished with experienced the alcoholism, divorce, poverty and other factors a life of drugs, and . of our lives in different ways. My crime?" she experience led me to a life in the asked. streets, alcohol, drugs, gangs, Asl crime, and eventually to prison. During my fourth year of a looked across the l 0 to 25 year sentence for the Ohio Department ofRehabilitation table at her I could not and Correction, I received a help but Christmas card from my notice my Grandmother that changed the file there course of my sentence, and my between us life. If you have been to prison in the center of the table, Rodney Sutton in front 01 Charlie s 314 House then you understand the sense of hopelessness that can overcome and in you when your freedom is in the seconds I reviewed my life and the and my Grandmother I successfully hands ofsomeone else. I lived my many things that had gone before. completed two years of parole, I formed my reply to Ms. Arrington graduated from Cincinnati Bible life with no thought of the future, because it had not been my very carefully. "Ms. Arrington," I College & Seminary with a began, "While I was in prison I experience that the future held Bachelor's Degree in Bible, anything good for me. Then recommitted my life to Chr.ist, and married and began a family. during the last five and a half years suddenly my Grand!llother However, in the midst of God has given me a plan for the remi.nded me ofher love, and these successes I was shot while next ten-years ofmy life." God's love for me. doing a Youth Ministry Internship " A ten-year plan," she As I began to recall my in North Fairmount, lost my early upbringing in the church, ~nd replied, "I've never t~ed with a Grandmother, was arrested and felon before who had a ten-year my Grandmother continued to spent several days in the Hamilton encourage me I began to develop a plan." She listened. patiently as I County Justice Center, and then different view of the future. My began to outline for her the goals I found myself unemployed and homeless. Had it not been for my future in particular. Over the would work.to achieve upon my course of the next several years I release: I would first.get a job, ten-year plan I might have given up went before the parole board enroll in college, and get my own in despair, yet I forged on, and by several tim~s and was denied each apartment. This I would do in the the grace of God I found time, but I continued to put· first ninety days. employment and housing, and together the ten-year plan God When I had finished she again stepp~d into my future. was giving me. Here I was simply said, " I'll have you out in Altho~gh, at this point I planning my own future. I could · - thirty days, and I'll do what I can thought I would readjust my plan envision a future that held promise to help you reach those goals." and forget about a life in the for me. Ten years later and here I ministry. I did some sales and I began to realize that my stand before Charlie's % House. I catering, since cooking has always remember arriving in Cincinnati an future would be what I would been a hobby of mind that I find hour late, and Ms. Arrington make it. very relaxing. God was set on the coming to my defense against a original plan, because I was led Therefore, when I finally received a parole I was almost Parole Officer who was ready to back to the ministry with the devastated to learn I could not send me back to prison. I recall my development ofAW.O.L. (A Way return to Akron, and because of first job as a cook at Barleycorn's ofLife) Ministries. A ministry with on 6th Street, I recall ninety-days my criminal history there was not a mission to help all an alternate city in Ohio willing to after coming to Charlie's moving disenfranchised individuals with ·referral, support, and counseling into my own two-room efficiency have me either. Finally the coordinator of the pre-release on 13th Street between Walnut and services. program made contact with Vine, and I recall being accepted I found myself homeless again and questioning God about Juanita Arrington who was then into Cincinnati Bible College & the Director of Charlie's % House Seminary. I had stepped into my my lot, but I forged on and now at here in Cincinnati. She agreed to future. Yet it was a future that was the end of ten years I am asking come and ifiterview me. to be as unpredictable as a God, "What will the next ten-years Prior to talking with me rollercoaster ride. Because I also hold for me?" I ask this because I recall the objections of my parole know that it is only by the grace of Ms. Arrington was offered my prison record. If you can envision officer. The moving to Laurel the Creator that although I stray Page 17 from the course on occassion the guidance of the Spirit has corrected my steps. Currently attending Lexington Theological Seminary, serving the United Church of Christ locally as the Director ofthe Racial Justice Youth Ministry, serving as a Coordinating Committee Member ofthe Greater Cincinnati Coalition for the Homeless, and renting a house in Silverton I have come a long way from the ex-felon who shared a ten-year plan with Juanita Arrington. I would like to take this time to thank Juanita, and all those who along the way gave an encouraging word or set me straight when I needed someone to do so. I would like to say to you, ex-felon, recovering addict, alcoholic, and homeless individual first and foremost. find God, then ask for a plan, and find someone who will support you in the development and pursuit of that plan. A ten-year" plan to end homelessness is a reality, but it must be done one individual at a time. If you cannot find help, call A.W.O.L. Ministries, 513-349­ 5119, and we will help you find that way of life that can help you step into your future. Peaslee Neighborhood Center. 215 East 14th Street Over-the-Rhine Cincinnati, Ohio 45202 (513) 621-5514 Empowering our neighborhood children through peace, art and education �STREETVIBES April, 2003 Editorial Cincinnati City Council ­ Show me, don't Tell me Domination War? Could it be that most of the people parading around as "Democrats" on Council are really just Republicans in disguise? move in the right direction. With Then Council passed giving Two years in review ­ due respect to Valerie, she has 6.6 million dollars to Sax Fifth No Fundamental spoken up on a few occasions, Avenue, a huge corporation. Yes, Changes. which is good, but more often than that is a priority for me, to by Brian Garry not she has remained silent at times subsidize private companies to sell As City hall touts its' expensive furs downtown. Yes I when what was needed was, to set · the example by speaking out progress of"moving forward" I agree - let all the rioters wear fur against such atrocities as that will solve the problem. laugh so hard, I fall off my chair. Excuse me I think I'm going to Huntington Meadows and the Does the City forget about vomit. What's wrong with our removal of Citizen input from the the "Great White Boycott" of local city administration? Have downtown that has been going on CitiCable broadcast . they moved the city forward in the Later the Panhandling for y~ars before the "Rebellion of past two years? Ifso in what 2001"? Cincinnati's downtown has Ordinance was passed. This nasty specific areas have they done so? little, hate-filled piece oflegislation been struggling for years and white Are they fu)tjl)ing their job people have been terrified and seeks once again to attack the weakest link in our societies chain, fleeing a way from the black people description - that of executing the Will of the People? Where is the to the suburbs for years prior to people who have no place to call "home" -many ofthem mentally ill. tangible evidence that they have 2001. Lack of free parking and too done something? Show me how Why don't the pick on somebody many parking tickets is one of the their actions have translated into their own size like Chiquita, or P& reasons for these folks not going actually helping working-class G or, Cintas, 5"'/3<d, UDF or downtown. people. Ifhelping people were a Provident Bank. Address The Demands! Obviously Why? Because the the city should not be digging in crime, would their be enough evidence to convict them? If powerful corporations run this city their heels. They should be dealing helping corporations were a crime, and to attack them would be for with and re~koning with the our city leaders to attack their I feel that there would be a demands ofthe boycotters. The preponderance of evidence, (to use REAL bosses, - rich corporations. City has, as an excuse, and a one their legalistic terms.) Our Council and Mayor are mostly distraction, made the Boycott the As a celebrated American obstacle, instead ofthe demands. puppets to these International Corporations who happen to have statesmen put it, "Let's look at the The boycott is not the issue, the record". demands are. The boycott is a their Head Quarters in Downtown One ofthe first things our city Cincinnati. With a few exceptions, tactic, a means to an end - that end being meeting the Demands. (The administration did, after the they are punks, sell-outs, they do not represent you nor I. They demands can be found at forming ofthe CAN Commission, www.cincyboycott.org.) was to fire Rev. Damon Lynch, (the represent the upper-classes, as is only co-chair representing the What did the City evidenced by their voting records. But I digress. The "common people") off the Administration do for its citizens Impaction Ordinance encourages who live in Huntington Meadows committee. the police (troops of the rich) to Apartments? They gave nothing Soon after, Council passed arrest people for asking others for because they do not care. To them, the Impaction Ordinance. The these people are not Human. Impaction Ordinance is an evil law money. Theref9re the City The City gave Lazarus prohibiting the use ofgovernment Administration ought to arrest Department store $27 million. funds for the building oflow­ itself for strong arming money out Meanwhile, the City claimed that income people's houses and of it's residents. How can they limit the free speech ability of one the reason that they did not help its apartments. This law destroys Citizens at Huntington Meadows chances for the building of homes person to ask another person for was because the city did not own and apartments for people of low­ money? Why did Council not follow Huntington Meadows. Does the income within the city limits. The City claims that the the suit of Cleveland and Columbus City own Lazarus? The City offered Channel 9 hiring ofValerie Lemmie was a to oppose this Oil and World Page 18 $?million to pay for moving costs. The city offered the people of Huntington Meadows - Nothing for moving costs. The City also gave the Hyatt Hotel 2.3 million, while cutting funding for the GrassRoots Leadership Academy and teen mother counseling. I spend my money on my priorities. Looking at the City's expenditures, I say that the City's priorities a bit screwed up. OK, so maybe they got issue 5 on the ballot. I give them that. That was a good move, but it didn't go far enough. This latest move, with certain city council people entering the boycott fray, demonstrates an Administration which concerns itself greatly when white performers cancel, or mainstream white groups support the boycott, is another example ofinsecure politicians feeling the need for more attention. Not caring for the people which they serve but only for a story in which they are mentioned in the local Cincinnati newspaper. This seems to give them that necessary, extra self­ esteem they seem to be lacking. They seem to be using the boycott for notoriety for themselves, stepping on the backs ofthe boycotters to gain a name for themselves. White bread councilmen and their police chief buddies from Elder are just an obstacle to Justice and change in this great city of Gurs.. They boycott groups and any thinking person would agree that few ifany ofthe demands of the boycott have been met. So please, prove me wrong and Show me, not Tell me, where this City's Administration has made FUNDAMENTAL changes in relation to addressing the root causes of the Rebellion of2001 . Support your local Streetvibes Vendor! here Vendor: 80 cents Printing and Production: 20 cents Your oll.a r oes The Streetvibes program maintains a minimal overhead cost so that our vendors can keep as much of the proceeds as possible. Please call our office at 421-7803 for more informa­ tion about the program. Many thanks for your support. Your vendor keeps 80 cents ofevery dollar..... �STREETVIBES April, 2003 Page 19 Food Research and ~.ction Center (FRAC) Report THE HOUSE BUDGET CUTS IN NUTRITION AND OTHER LOW-INCOME ENTITLEMENTS (Center on Budget and Policy Priorities, March 20, 2003) The budget plan passed by the House Budget Committee includes more than $159 billion in cuts, between 2004 and 2013, to key low-income programs such as Medicaid, the State Children's Health Insurance Program, SSI, EITC, Food Stamps, TANF, child nutrition programs, foster care and adoption programs, child care, and the Social Services Block Grant. This report includes a state-by­ state table that provides estimates of how the $159 billion in cuts in these key low-income mandatory programs would be distributed among states.http:// www.cbpp.org/3-20-03bud3.htm COLUMN: PRESIDENT BUSH'S TAX CUTS AND THE LONG-TERM BUDGET OUTLOOK put forth by the House Budget Committee, saying that the plan forces the federal government to drastically curtail vital programs in order to pay for tax cuts aimed at a wealthy minority ofAmericans. Two-thirds ofthe deficits throughout the coming decade will be caused by the tax cut proposal. The big tax cuts for the rich and the $12 billion cut in food stamps as well as cuts in Medicaid and Medicare proposed by the House Budget Committee are representative of how the House Budget Committee proposal provides "a boon for a fortunate minority while taking a cleaver to programs vital for most tax payers." http://www.nytirnes.com/2003/03/ 16/opinion/16SUN1 .html (free registration required) REPORT: FAMILIES COPING WITHOUT EARNINGS OR GOVERNMENT CASH ASSISTANCE benefit from the academic performance and student elementary schools in the CutlerOrosi Joint Unified district gets free breakfast in their classrooms, regardless of income. The food service director says most schools could afford to feed everyone breakfast for free. The schools have seen remarkable improvements in tardiness rates, behavior problems, and nurses' visits, and a jump in state test scores. In an attempt to make breakfast more accessible and reduce stigma associated with it, school districts and the task force are looking at ways get students to participate. Ken Hecht ofthe California Child Nutrition Task Force points to serving meals on the bus, offering packaged foods that can be grabbed quickly, and eating in the classroom. c;tassroom breakfast is the prefef!ed means. http://www.fresnobee.com/local/ story/63 82146p-7329879c.htm1 REPORT: STUDY OF "ABAWDs" LEAVING THE FOOD STAMP PROGRAM IN SOUTH CAROLINA (New York Times, March 21, 2003} Columnist Paul Krugman suggests that the administration's 2001 and proposed tax cuts win create future fiscal problems that are far greater than the budget deficits expected from Social Security and Medicare. He notes that "the latest official projections acknowledge (ifyou read them carefully) that the long-term finances ofthe U .S. Government are in much worse shape than the administration admitted a year ago." A new study by the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities compares the size ofPresident Bush's tax cuts with the prospective deficits in Social Security and Medicare. The report finds that Social Security faces an estimated actuarial deficit of $3.8 trillion over the next 75 years; Medicare will face a $6.2 trillion shortfall. At the same time, $12.1 to 14.2 trillion in total revenue is estimated to be lost through the tax cuts. http://www.nytimes.com/ 2003/03/21/opinion/2 lKRUGhtml (free registration required) The Center on Budget and Policy Priorities report: http:// www.cbpp.org/3-5-03bud.htm (Urban Institute, February 2003) This report examines what the poorest families need in order to work and what supports they need when work cannot be found. Interviews with about 100 families with children, all with incomes below 50 percent of the poverty level, show how very poor health, limited skills, and the lack ofjobs, transportation and child care raise serious barriers to employment. They also illustrate how sanctions, time limits, and other administrative hassles can prevent welfare participation for many families without work. Food stamps provided a base of support for about halfoft he families, but 50 percent ofthose not receiving food stamps had their benefits terminated for administrative reasons. Interviewed families coped by combining in-kind government support, child support, help from family or friends, "side jobs," and charity. http ://www.urban.org/ url.cfm?ID=410634 EDITO~: (Fresno Bee, Fresno, CA, March 17, 2003) The California Child Nutrition Task (News Channel 8, Portland, OR. Force, headed by Sharon Davis, the March 17, 2003} governor's wife, is pushing better Oregon state Senator Bill utilization ofthe federal School Morrisette (D-Springfield) has Breakfast Program so that schools sponsored a bill that would place PRESIDENT BUSH'S TAX CUTS HURT PROGRAMS FOR THE POOR (New York Times, March 16, 2003) This editorial strongly criticizes President Bush's tax cut plan, and the subsequent budget proposals CALIFORNIA SCHOOL DISTRICTS USING SCHOOL BREAKFAST PROGRAM SUCCEED (Economic Research Service of USDA, March 2003) This report presents the findings of a study of certain childless jobless adults between ages 18 and 50 (so called " Able Bodied Adults Without Dependents," or " ABAWDS") in South Carolina who left the Food Stamp Program between October 1998 and March 2000. South CarolinaABAWDs, including thos~ willing to work but unemployed, are limited to 3 months of food stamp benefits in a 36-month period unless they work or participate in an approved work or training program. Ofthose who were unemployed at the time ofthe survey, two-thirds appeared, based on income, to still be eligible for food stamps. Forty percent were food insecure and 23 percent food insecure with hunger evident. http ://www.ers.usda.gov/ publications/efan03002/ LEGISLATORS IN SEVERAL STATES PROPOSE BANS ON SODAS, CANDY SOLD IN SCHOOLS (OREGON, MARYLAND, MAINE) OREGON PROPOSAL nutritional restrictions on foods available at school in an attempt to limit consumption of non-nutritious foods in favor offruits and vegetables. At one high school in the state, vending machines are turned off during lunch, but soda and high-fat snacks are still available through the student center's a la carte window. Student groups also sell snacks (e.g. doughnuts and cookies) throughout the day. http://www.kgw.com/ sharedcontent/AP Stories/stories/ D7PQ013Gl.html (free registration required) MARYLAND PROPOSAL (Washington Post, March 17, 2003) The Maryland General Assembly is con~idering legislation that would require at least half ofthe vending machine products sold in schools to be healthful. Also, non-nutritious snacks and beverages sold in vending machines would have to be at least 25 percent more expensive than their more nutritious counterparts. http ://www.washingtonpost.com/ wp-dyn/articles/A35565­ 2003Mar16.html MAINE LEGISLATIVE COMMITTEE REJECTS SCHOOL JUNK FOOD BAN (Portland Press Herald, Portland, ME, March 18, 2003) In Maine, a bill banning candy and all soda sales in most schools was unanimously rejected in a legislative committee, and carried over into next year, pending suggested nutrition guidelines for foods sold in schools to be drafted by education, health, and food industry officials. http://www.pressherald.com/news/ statehouse/030318obese.shtm1 To view the News Digest archives and the latest issue in HTML format: http:// www.frac.org/htmVnews/ newsdigestldigestmenu. htm ­ Our web site is http:// www.frac.org - To subscribe to the weekly FRA C News Digest go to: http:// capwiz.comlfraclmlml Ben Winter, Food Research and Action Center 1875 Connecticut Avenue, NW Washington, DC 20009 (202) 986-2200 x3019 phone (202) 986-2525 fax Email: bwinter@frac.org �Need Help or Want to Help? If you need help or would like to help please call one of the Greater Cincinnati Coalition for the Homeless members listed below. SHELTERS: Women and Children YWCA Battered Women's Shelter 872-9259 (Toll Free) 1-888-872-9259 Bethany House 557-2873 Salvation Army 762-5660 Welcome House 859-431-8717 Women's Crisis Center 859-491-3335 SHELTER: Men City Gospel Mission 241-5525 Garden St. House 241-0490 Joseph House (Veterans) 241-2965 St. Francis/St.Joseph House 381-4941 Formed in 1984, The Greater Cincinnati Coalition for the Homeless is a membership organization. Our member groups serve the homeless through emergency sf)elter, transitional living facilities, permanent housing, medical services, social services, soup kitchens, and mental health/addiction services. The Coalition also consists of individual citizens who want to take an active role in ensuring that Cincinnati is an inclusive community, meeting the neeas of all of its citizens. Join the fight to end homelessness; contact the Greater Cincinnati Coalition for the Homeless at (513) 421-7803, 1506 Elm Street Cincinnati, Ohio 45202 .....,,.... ~ Cocll'-IG n. ·M!Qnwtl• • ,,, Mt. Airy Center 661-4620 Volunteers of Amer. 381-1954 SHELTER: Both Anthony House (Youth) 357-4602 Caracole (AIDS) 761-1480 Friars Club 381-5432 Drop Inn Center 721-0643 Haven House 863-8866 Interfaith Hospitality 4 71-1100 Lighthouse Youth Center (Teens) 861-1111 St. John's Housing 651-6446 HOUSING: CMHA 721-4580 Excel Development 632-7149 Miami Purchase 241-0504 OTR Housing Net. 369-0004 ReSTOC 381-1171 Tender Mercies 639-7056 Tom Geiger House 961-4555 IBEATMENT: Women First Step Home 961-4663 Full Circle Program 721-0643 TREATMENT: Men Charlie's 3/4 House 784-1853 Prospect House 921-1613 961 -2256 Starting Over TREATMENT: Both N.A. Hopeline 820-2947· A.A Hotline 351-0422 C.Q.A.T. 381-6660 Talbert House 684-7956 Transitions, Inc 859-491-4435 VA Domiciliary 859-559-5011 DIC Live-In Program 721-0643 OTHER SERVICES: AIDS Volunteers of Cincinnati 421-2437 Appalachian Identity Center 621-5991 Beech Acres 231-6630 Center for Independent Living Options 241-2600 Churches Active in 591 -2246 Northside Cincinnati Health Network 961 -0600 Community Action Agency 569-1840 381 -4242 Contact Center 241 -2563 Emanuel Center Freestore/ 241 -1064 Foodbank Fransiscan Haircuts 651-6468 Goodwill Industries 771-4800 Coalition for the Homeless 421-7803 Hamilton Co. Mental Health Board 946-8600 Mental Health Access Point 558-8888 Hamilton Co. TB Control 632-7186 Health Rsrc. Center 357-4602 Homeless Mobile 352-2902 Health Van House of Refuge Mission 221-3619 Legal Aid Society 241 -9400 Madisonville Ed. & Assis. Center 271-5501 Mary Magdalen House 721 -4811 McMicken Dental Clinic 352-6363 Our Daily Bread 621-6364 Peaslee Neighborhood Center 621-5514 Project Connect Homeless Kids 357-5720 St. Vincent De Paul 562-8841 The Emergency Food Center 471-4357 721 -7660 Travelers Aid 721-7900 United Way VA Homeless 859-572-6226 Women Helping Women 872-9259 MIDDLETOWN/HAMILTON (Butler County) St. Raphaels (Food Bank/Soup Kitchen) 863-3184 863-i445 Salvation Army Serenity House Day Center 422-8555 Open Door Pantry 868-3276 New Life Baptist Mission (Soup Kitchen) 896-9800 Hope House (Homeless Families/Singles) 423-4673 � Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource 2003 Text A resource consisting primarily of words for reading. Examples include books, letters, dissertations, poems, newspapers, articles, archives of mailing lists. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre Text. Original Format The type of object, such as painting, sculpture, paper, photo, and additional data Newspaper Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource April 2003 Subject The topic of the resource Homelessness Description An account of the resource Pg 1: ReSTOC Celebrates 25 Years of Over-the-Rhine Neighborhood Development Hate Against the Homeless Pg 2: Exploring Change Since April 2001 Pg 3: Hate Continued… Pg 4: Homeless News Digest Pg 5: Formerly Homeless, Rising Up to Help Others Pg 6: Talking About Panhandling, Poverty and Homelessness Pg 7: Talking About Panhandling, Poverty and Homelessness Continued Pg 8: Trespassing Laws Against Homeless Intensified Pg 9: Fighting Over Dirt- The War Inside Pg 10: ReSTOC Continued Pg 11: The Peace Village Pg 12: The Peace Village Continued Pg 13: Ohio Empowerment Coalition Organizes to Stop the Race to the Bottom Pg 14: Arts & Poetry Pg 15: Arts & Poetry Continued Pg 16: News & Editorial Pg 17: The Ten-Year Plan Pg 18: Cincinnati City Council-Show Me, Don’t Tell Me Pg 19: Food Research and Action Center (FRAC) Report Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Streetvibes Archive Project Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Streetvibes Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Greater Cincinnati Homeless Coalition Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource April 2003 Contributor An entity responsible for making contributions to the resource Georgine Getty Andy Erickson Brendan Goodwin Steve Shockley Mary Taylor Virgil Tuttle Jimmy Heath Jerome Manigan Elain Coffy Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource PDF Andy Erickson Arts & Poetry Bienvenidos Brendan Goodwin Cincinnati city council Elain Coffy Empowerment Evangelist Food Research FRAC Georgine Getty Jerome Manigan Jimmy Heath Laws living wage Mary Taylor News & Editorials Newspaper Ohio Over-the-Rhine panhandling Peace Village poverty Reader Mail ReSTOC Seattle Steve Shockley Virgil Tuttle War https://streetvibesarchive.net/files/original/bf7a26f633262f050c13593529a23908.pdf 093dcd7d75849e538c12eb3a5b2eece8 PDF Text Text April 2004 ~----------~~~~~~ . VI Protesting the Iraq War - Around the Globe, Millions Gather on One-Year Anniversary Hundreds of thousands of people worldwide rallied March 20 against the war in Iraq. Hundreds gathered in downtown Cincinnati on the one-year anniversary of the American-led invasion. There were over 300 events in the U.S and protests in more than 60 countries, In more than 600 cities and towns around the world, people took to the streets to say yes to peace andno to pre­ emptive war and occupation, calling for an end to the occupation oflraq and President Bush's foreign policies. Hundreds of thousands of activists al.so raised their voices at rallies in London, Cairo, Tokyo and other cities in Europe,Asia and e lsewhere. in the United States, Chicago police in full riot gear lined downtown streets as thous ands of war opponents marched about two miles to the city's Federal Plaza. The Rev. Jesse Jackson told Chicago demonstrators to express their opposition to the war by voting against President Bush In Europe, one of the biggest protests was in Rome, where up to 300,000 marchers jammed the streets. Protesters demanded that Italy withdraw its 2,600 troops from Iraq. And in London, two protesters climbed the Big Ben clock tower. Early Saturday morning, the two anti-war demonstrators weari}\g climbing notable protests included a 100,000 person march and rally in New York City. The event was peacefu~ unlike a demonstration one year earlier that drew 100,000 people and produced several clashes between demonstrators and police. An event in held in San Francisco was attended by more than 50,000 people. In Crawford, Texas, where President George Bush owns a ranch and often vacations, 1000 protesters converged to repudiate his militaristic policies and call for a diversion of the billions of dollars that are being spent on war to domestic programs like schools, health clinics, housing and homelessness. Military families and veterans led a protest that drew 1500 to Fayetteville, North Carolina, outside the Fort Bragg military base. gear scaled the Big Ben clock tower at the Houses of Parliament and held up a small bannerthat read "Time for Truth" before coming down several hours later. (The Big Ben stunt sparked concerns about ,,.,.-7,. security around the cap ital's landmarks, which is supposed to be at a high level to guard against a possib le terrorist attack) London's Metropolitan Police estimated that some 25,000 people took part in the rally between Hyde Park and Trafalgar Square in the center of the British capital. In Cincimati, hundreds ofprotestors story andphotos by Jimmy Heath met downtown at Cincinnati's Fountain Square to join the March and Rally Against 'VVar and Occupation. The message cb.lring the event in downtown Cincinnat i was that even though rally organizers support US troops, they do not support US policies that sentAmerican troops into Iraq. The war in Iraq has claimed the lives of two tri­ state residents - over 500 American soldiers have died since the invasion, and I 0,000 Iraqis have been killed in the conflict. Banners listing the names of individual soldiers who have died in Iraq were disp layed on Fountain Square. The rally program included a series of speakers, a memorial to those who have died in Iraq, and a short march followed by another gathering on FoW1tain Square. Rally participants marched around the block to the Federal Building and then back to Fountain ,,, i- . ' :::.. Square while pounding on drums and chanting anti-war slogans. Although police estimated the crowds ize at 250, organizers say the numbers were much closer to 800. Over three do:z.en groups were represented at the rally. The collaborative effort was intended to give strength to individual organizations participating in the event. " Each person at the rally represents someone else who could not be here," says Sister Alice Gerdeman CDP, of the Intercommunity Peace andJustice Center and coordinator of the event. "I was pleased with the spirit of the participants, and with the energy generated by this event. The real measure of success will be when people take this energy and are able to change policy," said Gerdeman. (For more information call the Intercommunity Peace and Justice Center at (513) 579-8547 �STREETVIBES The Tri-State's Homeless Grapevine Streetvibes, the Tri-State's alternative news source, is a newspaper written by, for, and about the homeless and contains relevant discussions of social justice, and poverty issues. It is published once a month by the Greater Cincinnati Coalition for the Homeless. Becoming a Streetvibes Vendor is a great way for home­ less and other low-income people to get back on (or stay on) their feet. Streetvibes Vendors are given an orientation and sign a code of conduct before being given a Streetvihes Vendor badge. All profits go directly to the vendor. The Greater Cincinnati Coalition for the Homeless is a group of shelters, agencies and individuals committed to ending homelessness in Cincinnati through coordinating services, educating the public and grassroots organizing. GCCHStaff Georgine Getty - Executive Director Brendan Goodwin - Administra­ tive Coordinator Andy Erickson - Education Coordinator Elizabeth Linville - Civil Rights Coordinator Janice Faulkner - Receptionist Mar y Gaffney- Receptionist Streetvibes Jimmy Heath, Editor Photoi:raphers Mary Burke, Anthony Dent, Jimmy Heath, Be1ta Lambert Cover Iraq War protesters march in Cincinnati, March 20, 2004 - photo by Jimmy Heath Streetvibes accepts letters, poems, stories, essays, original graphics, and photos. We will give preference to those who are homeless or ven­ dors. Subscriptions to Streetvibes, de­ 1ivered to your home each month ' can be purchased for $25 per year. Address mail to: Streetvibes Greater Cincinnati Coalition for the Homeless (GCCH) 117 East 12th Street Cincinnati, OH 45202 (513) 421-7803 e-mail: streetvibes@juno.com web: http://bomeless.cinci.com STREETVIBES Reader Mail My daughter and I go to Findlay Market almost every Saturday. We have met two very nice vendors there that we talk to every week. One is Julie and she tells us about her new grandchild and we give each other a hug. She always has a smile for everyone. The other vendor is Robert Manassa. He is always very nfoe and tells us when he has a new poem in the Streetvibes. We have quite a collection on our refrigerator. He always has an uplifting message. When we don't see them we look for them. We feel like they are our friends. Inge & Sandy Seybold Greetings, Over the last 25 years of my adult life, I have been homeless about 10 years. Sometimes it was by choice, but quite often by necessity, so I have a pretty good feel about the issues involved. Whether it be poverty, drug abuse, alcoholism, fear of the authorities, or any other reason, homelessness has become a cancer in our society. As a spiritual man, my life revolves around helping others better themselves, and any contribution to your newspaper may help achieve that for some people. Please add my name to your mailing list, and if possible, I would like to submit some articles for your consideration. Unfortunately, I am not able at this time to send either money or stamps to help defray your costs. Hopefully, my future submissions will help counter that problem. Gary Hallford California State Prison Vacaville, California Mr. Hallford will be placed on our mailing list. Unfortunately, we don 't have the resources to fill all subscriptwn requests from Prisoners. Ifyou would like to sponsor a prisoner for Streetvibes, subscriptwns are $25 per year. If you like, you can designate a prisoner or we willpick one for you - editor. Dear Streetvibes Community: After more than 1 Y2 years paper and continue to educate as the Administrative Coordinator others about the pressing problem at the Greater Cincinnati Coalition of homelessness in Cincinnati. To for the Homeless, r have decided to the vendors- you are the heart of move on. I' ve decided I wanted to this program and I have enjoyed getting to know each of you. You try life in a new city and was offered a great job in Boston always liven up the office and provide great insight into the coordinating a fair trade program for an organization that works in El development of this program. Best Salvador. So as I begin to wrap up of luck to all of you and thanks for your dedication to my business here and pack up my the Homeless apartment, I keep Coalition. finding myself To the reflecting on my time donors, funders, here at the Homeless members, Coalition. As the supporters and all Administrative the homeless Coordinator, I was advocates of always the guy in the Cincinnati: Yours back of the office is not an easy job in sitti ng in front of the this city. I am so computer all day - I proud of the Brendan Goodwin would tell people diversity in our membership and that I had the boiing job at the Coalition, but I really supporters-it truly represents a have loved every minute of it. I am strong grassroots effort of endinae continuously amazed at what this homelessness and is unique to this small organization has been able to city and this country. Thank you, accomplish throughout its history, thank you, thank you for your but especially in the past year. donations, volunteer work and There are so many people to say support of the work of the goodbye to and to thank that I Homeless Coaljtion. In a city that think I have to break it into groups. continues to crimjnalize and shun To the Streetvibes those experiencing homelessness, Community: Thank you for your your efforts and your voice are support of this newspaper- I hope what is making real, systemic that you take the time to learn more change in our community. about the program so that you To Over-the-Rhine: This neighborhood has been my place of understand exactly how you are affecting people's lives through work as welJ as my home for three your support. Additionally, I hope years now. Thank you for welcoming me into your you take what you read in this April, 2004 Streetvibes Vendor Comment Cards She [Streetvibes vendor] was very well groomed and spoke up so everyone could hear her. Keep up the good work. God has people out here who will hear our cry l I always buy Streetvibes 'cause it wouldn't take much to be homeless. AH it takes is to miss the rent. I always give money to street persons. Streetvibes is a great tool for those who need money for food, etc. All the vendors I have met were polite and never pushy. ~ Write Us! We 'd like to hear from you.... Send letters or ·} f, comments to: \ ~, Streetvibes@Juno.coni, ,,. or write the Coalition office attn: Streetvibes Letters 117 East 12th Street Cincinnati, Ohio 45202 ' , commLtnity full of history, struggle and activism. I am proud to have been a resident of th is neighborhood that never gets the respect it has earned. You, my neighbors, have taught me so much about life-its struggles and its rewards and I will continue to look for neighborhoods as diverse and rich to call my home. To the staff of GCCH: Thank you for the support, the laughs, the crazy made-up games that we played to relieve stress and for your un-ending dedication and compassion. I will miss coming into the office on a Sunday afternoon to finish up some work and finding half of the staff is there as well. I have never worked with a more talented, fun (and funny) staff before. Thank you for your friendship and I look forward to continuing to support your work here at the Homeless Coalition. l just realized that the only other time I have contributed to Streetvibes in the form of an article, was my introduction Jetter when 1 first started. You have seen me behind all of those fundraisinae ads each month asking for you to attend an event, or buy our book, or donate money, so this is a little different. BUT .. . in the true spirit of my job at the Homeless Coalition, I have to do it one more time .. . please go to page l1 of your Streetvibes and show your suppo1t through a financial donation. Thank you again, everyone. I will miss you all and l wish you the best in your work in the future. Sincerely, Brendan Goodwin Page 2 �Lesson on Vine Street ordinary as to slip easily from memory, others so extraordinary as a bright, bittercold day to stay in mind for a Jong, Jong in C incinnat~ some winters ago. I time. And I have carried the image saw a woman and four children of this woman and these children. almost photographically. for over gather to cross at Fourteenth and Vine. Around them were the traffic two years now. They stay with me. in motion on Vine. the traffic at rest in part, I suppose. because of a on Fourteenth. the vigilant and little riff of drama between the reposed dope boys leaning against woman, who was tipsy. and the oldest of the children, a girl with a the boarded windows of the pool hall the walkers with their canes or proud. wary eye. The woman was white. the their strollers or their bags of children were black, and it seemed groceries. Around them all was a maze of brick and neon, the woman was an interloper in this scene. She looked like someone's signboards, walk lights. glass. vinyl p lywood. chrome. paper. grandmother. but she did not look like theirs . And the oldest girl asphalt, plastic. and. in the path of who may have been twelve. was a passing truck, a p Jume of diesel smoke descending. clearly in charge. She had the smaller children linked. hand to The comer of Fourteenth and Vine in Cincinnati is a busy hand. lined up at the curb like marchers. They were packed. corner. one of the busiest. at the heart of the ghetto that erupted in identically. in bright insulate d coats. Apri l 2001 in response to the hooded. bundled. and immob ilized like fine china packed for shipping. police killing of Timothy Thomas. Thomas, an unarmed Black man They were bright -colored beauties, admirably protected and prepared wante d fo r traffic offenses. die d for the bitte r cold air of Vine just a few short blocks away in an alley off Republic Street. a darker. Street. quieter place where you will see But the woman was bare­ fewer people. But at 'Fourteenth handed. dressed shabby, out of and Vine. at any hour of the day or season and out of fashion in a night, it is not at all uncommon to camel-colored cloth coat with a see women and children and all kerchief knotted at her chin. Twenty years ago. she would not manner of people crossing or waiting to cross. many of them so have looked out of place. for she by Gray Dog On would have looked like many Vme. Some of them are the major. get-in-the-news terrible, but most women among the thousands of are the small usual. almost Appalachian migrants who shared this neighborhood with growing manageable, easily unnoticed sort numbers of African-Americans. of terrible. Two blocks down She reminded me of women I have seen in coal camps. or in country Fourteenth is Washington Park stores, or outside storefront School; two blocks up Vine Street is Saint FrancisSeraph. Qiildren churches on Wednesday nights are on these streets much of the after services. These are knotty. ti me. And it seems to me a terrible strong-minded. sharp-tongued women, hard-scrabble matr iarchs, thing that a childshould witness. the moral and emotional centers of day after day, such physical and struggling displaced families. They moral damage. such a daily are woman of great density. The corner ofFourteenth and Vine in made solid by Cincinnati is <t busy corner, one ofthe grief and wisdom. busiest, at the heart ofthe ghetto th<tt But this erupted in April, 2001 in response to the woman had lost police killing of Timothy Thom<tS.. . that soIidity; she had not that focus. disillusionment in which She was the center. it seemed. of nothing. She teetered unsteadily to matriarchal figures are made either the right, then back to the left, tlien pitiab le or fearsome by addiction, men drift hollowly toward the next again to the right as she leaned fi x. young men waste arrogantly on toward the youngest child. the wide .eyed one, and extended a the comers, the young women shaky hand to take him by the become young mothers become mitten. For a moment. the old prostitutes . woman wobbled. and it seemed she This of course is not the might mislead this wide .eyed one whole story of Vine Street. I have fr iends up the street who are a into the teeth of the traffic . hard-working, church-going family The girl. from her end of the line, watched with a dubious eye. Gray Dog,,,, Many terrible things happen cont on page 7 at the corner of Fourteenth and Because over 8,000 childen in Cincinnati are without a home every year. Homeless Awareness Week May 10 -14, 2004 Schedule of Events Gtealer ] Cincinnati Codition For 1heHomeless Monday, May 10 - Join us for a screening of Dark Days, an award-w inning docume ntary depicting the lives ofh omeless me n and women liv ing in abandoned train twme ls in New York City. A d iscussion by forme rly h omeless Cinc innatians will follow. 7 -9pm at Ka ldi's Co ffee House (12 04 M ain Street, Over-the-Rhine). Tuesday, M ay 11- H omeless Civil Rights D ay. The rights of homeless individuals are being disregarded in m any c ities across .the U.S. Cincinnati h as been ranked the 6th Me anest City for its treatme nt of h ome less in div idu als. Help us spread aware ness t o combat the criminalization o f h omelessness. M eet us at the G CCH o ffices on Tuesday at 11 :30 am (117 East 12th Street). Wednesday, May 12- Book Club. P ick up a copy of The St reet Lawyer by John Grisham and join us for our b ook c lub . We ' ll d iscuss the book and how it re lates t o re al homeless issues right h ere in Cincinnati. 6 :30 - 8:3 ~m. Meeting Room 3A at the Cinc innati Pub lic Library (800 Vme Street). Thursday, M ay 13 - A rmchair Advocate Day. Fight to end homelessne ss without leav ing y our own h om e. Educate yourse lf and others by s urfing the internet and letter writing. Visit ww w.nationa lhom ele.ss.org, www.hom eless.cinc y.com and othe r we bsites to fm d out h ow y ou can become involve d. Write le tters t o the e ditor, coWlCihnembers and state re presentatives stressing the need for a fford able hous ing to e nd homelessness. Friday, Ma y 14 - The Homeless Aware ness Music Extravaganza! Enj oy the S oul Mission Chorale, W inton Woods High Sch ool Choir, Stepp' n Out and Nu-Vue, Jake Speed and other gre at performers. 7 - 9pm at Christ Emmanuel Christian Fellowship (2324 M ay Street in Walnut Hills). All events are free and open to t he public. For m or e information, call the Homeless Coalition - 421-7803 STREETVIBES April, 2004 Page 3 �April, 2001 Did Cincinnati's Civil Unrest Change City Politics? story and photos by Jimmy Heath 19year-old Timothy Thomas was wanted o n misdemeanor arrest warrants and running from police in Over-the-Rhine on S aturday, April 7th, 2001 when he was shot by a C incinnati policeman. Police O fficer Stephen Roach, who had never fired his weapon on duty, shot a nd killed Thomas in a dead-end alley off Republic Street. Thomas appeared to be reachi ng for h is waistband during a confrontation with the policema n in the alley, accordi ng to ea rly police Man on 12th Street with picture ofMal,colm X and Maron Luther King III. reports. Timothy Thomas was the fourth black man killed by Cincinnati said Rev. Damon Lynch IIL pastor of Over-the-Rhi ne's New Prospect police si nce November of 2000, and the fifteenth such victim since Baptist Church, referri ng to the latest shooting death. Hamilton County Prosecutor Mike Allen, who denounced 1995. Tho mas was the father of a three-month-old son. participants as "law-b reaking thugs who should be prosecuted This month is the third anniversaiy of the shooting of Thomas. His death fueled nearly a week of civil unrest and rioting in uiban vigorously," an nounced he was indicting 63 people arrested o n felony C incinnati. charges, ranging from aggravated rioting, breaking and entering, Violence erupted on Monday, April 9th. 2001 following a police weapons possession, inducing panic and other misdemeanor offenses, news conference about the Thomas shooting. Angry residents crowded such as resisting arrest and disorderly conduct. Cincinnati City Hall targeting their rage All of these events led the evening news programs - the against the Mayor, C ity Council men:bers, and violence. the fear, the images of rampaging "thugs" and buming police representatives. The protesters filled the dumpsters. The media continued to descend on the scene to reco rd the counci l chambers, some standing on tables and mayhem throughout the week - eventually the whole world knew what was going on in Cinci nnati. chairs screaming at city leaders, almost preventing them from leaving during the th ree­ Local and nationally recognized civil rights activists came to hour confrontation. Over-the-Rhine calling for peaceful discussions and an end to violence Thomas's mother, Angela Leisure, took on the streets. It made for good TV and painful politics. The death of Thomas was the shot heard around the w orld, with Cincinnati suddenly the podium at one point and demanded an explanation for the shooting of her son. "You thrown into the international spotlight. His death was a rallying point 'Timothy Thomas took h im from his family and his so n and we for national discussio ns o n police violence, poverty and racism. want to know why. And don't get me w rong, even when you tell me why, it's not going to make it better." The lack of answers fueled additional anger and frust ration in the assembled crowd and the waiting comm.mity. That evening, (Monday night) after a makesh ift march from City Hall hundreds of angry protesters assembled outside police headquarters in downtown C incinnati. Police in riot gear and on horseback sprayed the crowd with a chemical irritant and fired at the protesters with beanbag shotguns. A brick was thrown, breaking the glass front door of police headquarters. Ten arrests were reported. The rioti ng became more serious Tuesday afternoo n and evening as crowds took to the streets agai n. Clothing shops, restau rants and convenience stores were bro ken into and looted. The fire department stayed busy putting out building and garbage can fires. Most of the unrest was focused on the downtown, West E nd and Over-the-Rhine neighbomoods - some of the poorest communities in the city. C incinnati NAACP President Norma Holt Davis said the fatal shooting of Thomas by a Cincinnati police officer lead her to only one co nclusio n. "It appears the police force has declared war on African-Americans," she said. " Fifteen black males have died at the hands of C incinnati police in the past six years. Before the Protestor confronts Cincinnati policeman on Central, Parkway, Over-the-Rhine. healing p rocess can ever finish, the w ound reopens," STREETVIBES April, 2004 Civil Unrest Page 4 �When protesters first took to the streets, the events in Cincinnati were put in the context of a "race riot." However, when the discussions turned to racism, the frustration of the oppressed and the poor, the g leam of the story started to wear thin. A lot of people on the streets saw themselves as fighting the oppressor white society which is not quite the same as fighting against white people. Is it possible that Timothy Thomas would have never been shot in the first p lace if he had been white? Nearly 800 people were eventually arrested for violating the four-day curfew imposed by Mayor Charlie Luken when he declared a state of emergency on Wednesday, April 12. Over 1,000 people attended the funeral on Saturday, April 14 for Timothy Thomas at New Prospect Baptist Church in Over-the­ Rhine. More than a funeral, it was a media and political show-and-tell event. The Mayor was there and so was the Governor of Ohio, along with other political bigwigs and throng,s of reporters. Following the service, mourners joined with hundreds outside the church and marched peacefully through the Over-the-Rhine neighborhood where Thomas was shot. Some 1,000 people of all races participated in the march. Conspicuous ly absent from the march were the politicians. Politically, nothing much has changed. The poor neighborhoods, predominately African-American communities, still feel the frustration of being black in a white dominated City Hall and police force. Some inner-city residents are just as frightened of the police as they are of the drug thugs and street-comer-gangsters Many of the thugs and looters, who were "vigorous ly" prosecuted three years ago have long-since been released from j ail after serving out their sentences, only to return to the street filled with prison-anger and resentment. Many businesses in Over-the-Rhine, even after three years, continue to struggle with the stigma of the event with many fearful Ms. Fa1111y SWvall, from her apartment at 15th md Republi.c St.reel, money-spending white suburbanites staying away from the downtown Over-tlie-Rlut1e. Her raisedftsl, she later I.old me, wru- 11ot a11 act of area in droves. def11111ce, bllt ofresolve a11d delerminaikm. People frequently ask me if things in Over-the-Rhine have returned to normal. Sadly, things have slowly returned to the same as how tenuous the relations are between the police and the African­ American community. And it reveals dissatisfaction in the areas of before- if "normal" is a war zone, a crime zone, and a drug-filled education, jobs and economic opportunity, housing and community zone. The most obvious thing is the slow and agonizing lack of leadership. Wtlh this crisis has come the opportunity for improvement. progress in community and police re lations. Although the police have Cincinnati must make rea l changes in each of U1ese areas if the city is adopted less lethal methods for subduing suspects (they are now armed to grow beyond the turmoil of that fateful week three years ago. with the recently approved Taser stun guns), the sense of isolation and Many Americans, particularly white Americans, are quick to lack of communication dominates the relationship betwe.en the police deny race as the primary motive in almost any negative act against a and the community, even to this day. person of color (unless the person committing the act is wearing a The police division's leadership has been criticized as white sheet). Police brutality cases are just a symptom of the illness. Cincinnati city government continues to struggle with the ' distasteful' unresponsive and uncaring. It is simplistic to dismiss the deaths of black people at the hands of police as unfortunate and unavoidable symptoms of poverty and racism, confronting the issue.with window dressing, sound bites and half-hearted attempts at reconciliation. In aspects of police work. The police must come to understand the frustrations and fears that these incidents engender in the communities Cincinnati government, denial may be the most serious affliction. • it patrols. Even more significant from the perspective of black Cincinnatians is that no city police officer has ever been convicted of a killing. (There has been only one reprimand.) Sadly, all that makes the.news is the drama of life on the streets in the inner-city. We don't often hear the stories of the families and the senior citizens and the majority of residents in Over-the-Rhine and other poor Cincinnati neighborhoods that are law-abiding and working hard to support their families - trying to build something for themselves and their neighbors. V./e only hear the horror stories of shootings, robbery and drug dealing. The drama that feeds the evening news is taken as truth by middle-class Cincinnati. Even in the face of overwhelming historical precedent, American denial about the role that race or racism plays in these, and similar events, remains strong. Despite repealed warnings from civll rights leaders and black police officers in Cincinnati, the police department's official response was that the shootings must be considered individually rather than as a pattern. Tragic as the death of Mr. Thomas was, the rioting that swept the city was about more than the loss of one young man. It was about the deep rifts that Oiildren <»1 Vine Street, last s11111.rner. separate citizens and city government. It shows just .. - STREETVIBES April, 2004 Civil Unrest Page 5 �A similar path of ignorance invo lves Jewish by Dr. Steve Sunderl<uzd education about the uniqueness of being a Jew and the similarities, Teaching and Leaming in a roots, a nd connections to Minefield Christian history. Jewish The reactions to the education of Christianity and movie, 'The Pass ion of the Christian education of Jewish Christ," have been and cont inue religious complexities is almCIS't to be remarkable, a nd not only in non-existent. How many the press and our letters. Many educators are realizing that a large Christians u nderstand why so me Jews cont inue to have faith in and impa-tant part of Western education has bee n poorly done, if religious values? Being a Jew is a complex hu man act ivity that can done at all. Just recently, many te defined a nd d iscussed if there educators acknow ledged that we is an interest and if there can be a knew almost noth ing about Islam form of respect and welcoming. and that it was time to begi n to How many Christia ns have place ourselves into curricula into Jewish synagogues ventured studies and experiences in to learn about the roots of their mosques, along w ith talking to !mans a nd others interested in teaching about this great religion and its many interpretations around the US and the world. This educational e ffort has teen thr illing for many of us w ho have teen conscious of the impact of ignorance king transformed into e ducation about religions in the daily life of learners and Dr. Steve Sunderland wors hipers in our faith in Judaism and/or just to midst. ience the critical and exper What many of us have not realized, unti l this movie revealed defining holidays of Jew ish people? How many Jews have it so sharply and painfu lly, is that feel "invited" in observing in a there are also e xplosive reactions non-religious way the Easter to being a Jew and teing a experience? The absence of Christian based o n ignorance. As educators, many of us have taught comfort in e xploring these major faiths adds to the fr iction in our about intolerance a nd avo ided religious communit ies, lays the certain negat ive themes in groundwork for perpetual Christian history and docu ments misundersta ndi ngs, a nd conti nues and their p owe r in the formation to explain why simplistic of Western attitudes toward generalizations, often offensive people who believe and don't and v iolent, persist amongst many telieve in Christianity. It has Jews a nd Christians about each teen an u nwritten law that other and each other's religious Christian brutality and Chr istian teliefs. examples of heroism and Where there is ignorance tolerance be slighted and even of basic human a ctions, we can ignored, especially in p ublic expect the creation of stereotypes education. that keep people "content" in their What has also been lost rxejudice. Where bias is a cted and avoided has been an upon in the form of friendships understanding of the values of denied, e mploy ment lost, or Christianity, the reasons that many negat ive acts going u nchallenged, people have teen draw n to this the reality of peace is last and we faith and the meaning of te ing a are all wa lking on a "minefield." Christian in the be.>t ofsen.res. Our "=vivaI," many of us Educators do not know how to telieve, is determined by holding teach about faith and spirituality onto our prejudice a nd keeping without fearing that the close "to our own ki nd," hopi ng "teachin~" will be interpreted as that our group can protect us. proselytizing. As a result, the Know ing that courage to venture basics of Christia n life, the ways the holidays define and illu minate too far away may w ind up in pain faith, and the ultimate concerns of and wounding, or worse, keeps many people from any form o f a Christ ian believer are j ust movement. Many leaders outside the general education of reinforce this situation, retelli ng most people. The Peace Village STREETVIBES Apri/J 2004 know either what is reing sa id and/or what to say in return. This is the rea lity that many of us are in because this is often the first peaceful discussion with others who may d iffer from our bel iefs. Asking questions that commun icate our interest, our confusio n, and our feeli ngs of being in some danger can be asked in w ays that promote peace and friendship if we ask ourselves, if we can, "Just how am I aski ng this question?" O ften many of us change a question into a statement, and may slip into this form and need to be self-caught, if we can. Questions to and w ith each other are steps in the minefield. When we see ourselves e xploding and others Listening 'Kith tlze Ears of exploding. we need to stop a nd <l Peace Friend - Discussions of pause, repair, address the wounds, this movie in general and and prooeed w ith caution. Christian and Jewish religion in I love reading letters from specific has worked best when the my old students remind ing me of liste ning assumes an attitude of what ki nd o f teacher I was. I peaceful frie ndliness. I try and wince when I read them, knowing what I left out, or chose to avoid start by alerting us to the tecause of my fear, or, what I was minefield of not hearing what is ofte n said, teneath the words and j ust ignora nt about that would in the words, and not heard have made a differenoe. Most of because our e ars are stuffed with. us as teachers are learners, riding our tongues read ied to respond. the waves of the u ncertain and The listening that I am reaching e njoying the ride toward glimpses for may not involve a n immediate of. u nderstandi ng in the eyes of our stude nts, friends, and co­ response; sometimes going around a circle and just teachers. We return to teach ing introducing one's self from a faith and learning tecause we have position is e nough to unclog our faith in the co nnection between ears. Somet imes we test listen education and peace, just as we when some one who has teen or is search the Scriptures tecause we frighte ned has a chance to spea k have faith in the connection to with support of the group, w ith peace that arires in the beauty of a phrase. Now, we stand o n a the stated realization that the group supports their right to say different ground, perhaps a what has hurt or frightened them . minefield, and we are called to Listeni ng to these words, in make the connections again. peaceful attitudes, often allows Shalom, Salaam, Pa z. others to join in and s hare what Dr. Steve Sunderland, they might have been hidi ng in professor ofSocial Work at fear. Whenever this form of the University of Cincinnat~ disclosure happens, it is often is th e Director of The Peace useful for the people who didn' t know that such feelin~ of fear Village, a group of individuals could exist, to make stateme nts of from the national and not know ing. Peaoe Friends do international community not wa nt to cover up their feel in~ committed to examining all or their areas of not knowing issues ofPeace in the world. people and there can be fruitful Dr. Sunderland also heads up ti me used to listen to just the Posters-for-Peace which themes o f fear and support. stories of the.re who have been "blown up" by trying to as k about the best path toward safety and freedom . Many people choose to be a 'by-stander" in the minefield, choosing to wait for others to lead or protest the conditions. Some people refuse to accept the conditions of immobility and seek to find new grou nd for j ourneyi ng to safety. Ste p by step, we can = these .people moving toward knowledge, risking that each step can be followed by the.re behind with safety. I wa nt to write about an e ducational process that helps us move together, with safety, with guidance, and with the faith that through e ducation an important new experience of peace can be ach ieved. Quali.J:y QriestWns are Acts- of Peace <uzd Not War ­ engages people in expressing their visions of Peace, in their own words, through the creation ofposters. S ometimes it is shocking that people feel so deeply and so differently about their rel igions and the religious Only $25 per month ... beliefs of Call Streetvibes @ 421-7803 others. Some people have (Business Card Size, ad ready copy) never heard Reach 18,000 customers per month! such remarks and do n' t Rent This Space! Peace Village Page 6 �Proposed federal funding will devastate voucher program by Elb;abdh Linvilk The Federal Budget for 2005, released by the Bush Administration in Febru3!}'. calls for huge cuts in the funding for housing vouchers. The voucher program. which is commonly referred to as Section 8, allows families to move into rent al housing and pay 30 percent oftheir inccme for rent, while the government subsidizes the rest. The city ofCincinnati has nearly25,000 individuals experiencing homelessness each -year. Currently, there are only around 7,000 vouchers available through CMHA. This new budget will hurt the program in a variety of ways: it will reduce the number of households that will be assisted by a voucher, it could increase the amount of rent tenants are required to pay, and it may force housing authorities to shift their assistance to higher income families. This budget will result in the loss ofapproximately250,000 vouchers nationwide. In Ohio, we will lose 12 % of our vouchers. This means a cut of I0,340 frcm the 85,300 vouchers in use today. It currently takes some households over a -year to receive a voucher. With the new cuts. the time on a waiting list could drag on even further. In addition. the budget proposal calls for policy changes in the administration of the vouchers that cou ld damage the program even further. Public Housing Elizabeili LUtvllk Authorites will be given flexibility in determining how to administer the voucher program. In order to administer the program. the budget proposal will allow them to eliminate the requirement that tenants pay no more than 30% of their income for rent. Increased rent could force families to live in overcrowded, substandard housing or to tum to the shelter system for housing. Another change the HousingAuthorities may have to m3ke because of the budget cuts is to focus the voucher assistance on higher income families. These families would require less fmancial assistance than lower income households. 'What dces this mean for Cincinnati? The Center on Budget and Policy Priorities recently released this information. As of July of2003 , Cincinnati had 7 ,375 vouchers. The proposed cut will decrease voucher funding by .$5,062,417. Ifthecuts are made by eliminating available vouchers, 894 would be lost. If they are made by increasing the rent burden to voucher holders, the annual rent would increase an average of $672 foreach household. There is a growing housing crisis in this country. Over 2 million households utilize housing vouchers across the country. 40% ofthe individuals utilizing vouchers are elderly or disabled; the majority of the rest are low-income families with children. According to a recent survey of Ohio shelters, there has been a 30% increase in the need for shelter. This number will likely increase even further with these budget cuts. The current administration may think that they cannot afford to continue to fund this program, but can the elderly, the disabled and children afford to lose this housing assistance? If you are interested in helping raise awareness on this is.sue, go to www.cohhio.org to send an alert to your representatives in congress. National Homeless Advocate Censored by Assistant Secretary of HUD Donald Whitehead, the first formerly homeless African. American Executive Director for the National Coalition for the Homeless (NCH). was barred from a HUD meeting, on Tuesday March 16th, in which he had been invited to spe3k on the Continuum of Care consolidation plan. Senior members of the Department's national office elected to censor Mr. Whirehead, asking him to leave the meeting. NCH provides a wealth and diversity of knowledge that represents a perspective shared by many in the advocacy world, but not by HUD. NCH has been highly critical ofHUD's controversial Chronic Hcmeles.snes.s Initiative as well as their proposed FY2005 budget that seeks to eliminate 250,000 section 8 vouchers, due to the detrimentaleffect these programs and cuts will have on the growing numbers o fh orne less children and familie.s. NCH joined in a letter signed by other prcminentnational, state and loca l advocacy groups including. NAACP, National Organization of Women, Volunteers ofAmerica, and Child Welfare League of America raising concerns regarding HUD's present position on the provision ofhorneless assistance funds. The fact that Donald Gray Dog... . and loud music, and in a thousand other turnings frcm her path. So she had aver<; adult duty and she would have to answer to someone if anything went wrong. She was wise to be W3!}' of such a wcman. It seemed at that moment, delerence, fear, anger, suspicion, and deftroice all warred within her as she studied what that unstable woman might do next. And that is all I can tell you. 'What more do I know of them? Nothing at all. I had a task tefore me at the time. I jaywalked past them to the hardware for a pound of nails and I did not look back. I stood in line to pay my money and didnot think, as I think now, that I had witnessed a mcment of afflicted grace. What do I mean by calling such an ordin3!}', fragment of living by such a title? Only this We make a misl3ke ifwe look for sanctity and respectability only in the Mother Teresa mode. We make another mistake ifwe see in the failures of a place like this comer only failures. There is tote foundherescmething ofsanctity and something of failure in almost evetyone. This toddling. someone's­ grandmother-looking wcman has. I think, a sad, unknowable story. It would seem her grandmother brain h3s been unmoored by cheap wine or maybe OxyContii). Her addled angels have failed to protect her ro1d she has been marked and shamed in ways I cannot know. Perhaps, in the way of the intoxicated, she hoped, in that bright and penitential day, to bring herself a moment of resurrected wholeness. Perhaps she was trying awkwardly to do right, a saintly inebriate, blind guide, unprotected protector, a broken Bodhisattva, a being holy and deluded in a place where even blessedness is lhctured. We here, after all, to do such kindness as we can. We are here to guide each other through perilous crossings. But the corner of Fourteenth and Vine is a place of conflicted blessings. \'k are wise to be wary ofeach other. The corner of Fourteenth and Vme is a sad place, full of wounded people. But there is brightness, even sanctity, a grace in affliction, even here. cont. from page 3 with no pull toward any of this. In the streets around, there are a numter ofhalfway houses, treatment centers, and transitional housing units where the work of recovery hums along. There are innocence and strength in these streets. but they are in the background, and quiet. Little of this is out on the street; none of it is as vivid and compelling as what is out on the corner where damaged and corrupted life staggers, weaves, toddles, struts, pimp walks, and cruises by at every hour. This girl, with her defiant, almost adolescent eye, had a task: to weave these children from one place to another through the color and danger of the street. And was that damaged woman one of their dangers? Thegirlseemed to think so, and she knows her world much betterthan I. She knows her world much tetterthan a child should know it. There are dro1gers in the dope boys, in the traffic, in the sexual predators cruising day and night, in the distractions of neon STREETV/BES April, 2004 Whitehead, one of the nation's most well respected homeless advocates, was denied the opportunity to address advocates who are designing a plan to address hcmeles.sness in the DC Metropolitan area is surprising. Whireheadsaid, "If we are to move focward, and achieve notable progress in our goals for strengthening the social fabric of America, this type of censorship must end." 20 YEARS SERVING THE NEIGHBORHOOD Empowering our neighborhood c hildren through peace. art and education Peaslee Neighborhood Center 215 East 14th Street Over-the-Rhine Cincinnati, Ohio 45202 (513) 621-5514 Page 7 �by Adam Holdorf, Patty L<me Three 11-year-olds got caught up in a lie that sent a homeless man to jail fo1· eight months. According to the Contra Costa Times, the girls didn't want to get in trouble for being late to school, so they covered it up by saying they were attacked by a homeless man in a park in Garden Grove, California. Eric Nordmark, a 36-year-oldself­ described nomad, was jailed for eight months on assault and child molestation charges be fore one of the girls finally ca me forward to say she and her friends made up the story. Nordmark maintained his innocence while in j ail and recalls his incarceration as " very terrifying." While Nordmark says he doesn't hold a grudge against the girls, he has not decided on whether he will sue them or the city. The girls are be ing referred to Juvenile Court. A federal class-action lawsuit filed on behalf of homeless children and their parents says that welfare programs in Suffolk County, NY, move homeless children from school to school, and schools resist enrolling and busing them. The suit claims local schools are failing to provide homeless children with suitable clothing shoes, b ooks, food, and transportation to enable them to attend school and is "depriving homeless children of a chance for a better future," according to the New York Times. The state receives millions of dollars in federal aid to educate the home less, according to advocates. The suit also addresses a prerequisite for school requiring proof of a permanent address for school enrollment, which "results in children be ing turned away at the school house door," say the plaintiffs. The suit seeks compliance, not monetary damages. Eight homeless veterans received full military honors at a special fwieral service held outside San Diego. According to theSan Diego Union Tribune, local Vietnam veterans,members of the 82ndAirbome, and e'•en Pearl Harbor survivors came to show respect for their military ''family" •some serving as honor guard, others as pallbearers. 1!1e number of home less veterans dyrng in the re gion has increased, although no one knows why. The Homeless Veterans Burial Program gave more than 80 homeless veterans dignifie d services and funerals over the last several years. Other cities have similar programs. '1 think we all fear dying alone," says Al Pavich, president of the Vietnam Veterans ofSan Diego. He attends many of these memorials and tells the lJnion­ Tribune that his organization offers treatment, job training. and counseling to homeless veterans. An estimated 270,000 ve terans are homeless. The health ofsome homeless workers in Florida may have been put at risk when the owner of a downtown St. Petersburg building hired them for a demolition job. The Tampa Bay Tribune reports that county officials may levy more than $15,000 in penalties against the owner, who is accused of hiring a number of homeless to remove crumbling asbesto.s pipe insulation without proper safety precautions. Asbestos can cause life-threatening problems, including cancer or scarring in lung tissue. Regulations require that workers wear protective clothing and treat asbestos before stripping it off pipes. 0 fficials discovered the violations last year while inspecting the apartments. Dignity Village, the 60­ person tent city placed on the outskirts of Portland, Oregon, was designated a legal campsite by a four·to·one vote of the Portland City Council on Thursday, February 26. According to KOIN-TV (koin.com). the new legal status gives the camp the right to stay at its current site next to the Portland Airport. In public testimony before the council's vote , homeless residents of the tent camp .spoke out in its favor; before the camp, " when I became homeless, I went into the woods," said village treasurer Tim McCarthy. '1 was a ll alone - this was the first chance I had to be around other people in the same s ituation." Campers have requested a 10-year lease on the city-owned land they currently inhabit, which is also used as a leaf­ recycling yard; the council will respond in a few months. The delay in the lease negotiation "made it possible .. , for the council to skirt the [issue of the] inadequacy of the site," charged the Oregonian in an editorial, "and its own ethical responsibility to clean it up ifthe city intends to become > the camps sponsor.» Story, Editorial and Art Submis­ sion Deadline/or the May. 2004 edition of STREETVIBES is Fridav. April 9th v . Support your local Streewibes Vendor! Yourvendorkeeps70 cents ofevery dollar..... WLO;]L&' l sing the song ofhope, wishing for peace and Ju1pp iness. Of spiritual feeling and IU1pp iness. For God's wisdom and Salvation, kindness and freedom ofprayer. And in the minds and hearts ofmen, they dre<1m ofbrothers <1nd fathers and ofson :S­ respect. Honoring hum<1nity is to be tile keeper of Lbve, and to redeem yourself of temptation ofsin. To renew the soul of d<1mn<1tion, so they be right, and of Heaven. l:tj Ronald English, Streetvibes Vendor Nonviolence is not a garment to be put on and offat will. Its seat is in the heart, and it must be UJl inseparahle part ofour being. Mahatma Gandhi You cannot shake hands with a clenched fist. Indira Gandhi �Keep The Faith and Never Give Up through his biography, but his teaching. I sit at my desk as usual, His story is not only about his biographical talking to my friends, the homeless, who I am around r-----:::~=:::---i life, but about life through faith every day - it seems today that some are in God and His heavy laden, down unchanging with personal hand. Suffering problems. Thinking through cancer that they may have and radiation found a job or a therapy over the place to stay, they im!I0"-....;;;;....1 years has not sometimes feel Ms. Mary Gtiffney stopped him from defeated when things don't come through. accomplishing his goals. He earned his Doctorate of Education I talk to my friends about this person who I am now going to from theUniversity of Cincinnati, speak about. This gentleman I along with his wife, Monia Posey, have known since a young child. who also received her doctorate. He was reared in church - St John They hope to start a charter school A. M. E. Zion Church. He is for urban children. known all over the city and in every For it is said, "I can do all neighborhood. He is Reverend Dr. things through Christ, who Michael Posey. strengthens me." He has been the pastor now As I close this for this for many years at the church. 'vVith month -to my friends, the readers hope and faith In God he has and especially the homeless accomplished many things, not only children; never say '1 can't do." !if by 1l4ary Gtiff1iey you say that, have you really kept the faith? It is said that before His word falls, heaven and eaith will pass away. As we enter the Lenten season and celebrate the sacrifice of his death and raising, like the blooming of the flowers and trees, we celebrate new life for the coming new year. The ultimate measure ofa person is not where one stands in moments ofcom­ fort and convenience, but where one stands in times ofchallenge and contro­ versy. Martin Luther King, Jr Buy Streetvibes From Badged Vendors Only! Streetvibes Vendors are required to sign a code of conduct and agree to abide by all the rules of the Streetvibes Ven­ dor Program. If a Vendor misrepresents or breaks the rules, she/he may be removed from the Program. To report a Vendor, call 421-7803. ext. 16 The GCCH would like to thank Starbucks for their generous donation of coffee and pastries. Streetvibes Vendor Code of Conduct All Vendors Sign andAgree to a Code of Conduct Report Any Violations to GCCH- 421-7803 1. Streetvibes will be distributed for a $1 voluntary donation. If a customer donates more than $1 for a paper, vendors are allowed to keep that donation. However, vendors must never ask for more than $1 when sellingStreetvibes. 2. 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GCCH reserves the right to terminate any vendor at any time as deemed appropriate. Badges and Streetvibes papers are property ofGCCH, and must be surrendered upon demand. April, 2004 ''Judge Palntc.r's book is already a classic in its field." 40 Rules fr>r the Art of Legal Writing Pl' rfixl 801m(f - l 34 J.unJycc &. f.imJ~·u; ri""" C>iv1<ln11 o1 r~A t'1m..d 1ing lr1<:. 24-19 l',1u•vit•w A\'Cnue Cinnnn.1ti, (lh1(l-l!'ill 'I JOM!ph P 1Cmi.1m, D1:an Co lh.-gc u1 L,rn university ot dn~matt pngt·~ l - 9 wplto!i l .5-1 1"~ -t 1 41• !>.~1 1 ilo21 .9~ -t ~ $21).\1~ ,..., JO t1t 111 0 ~ 'Sl'I ~. 1.40 ... ~ t ltl(I ~ti . $2)93"" ~·1.d rnr <»pt"" n1 TH'E I FGAI WRffEJ( Ch.."C'\. lor _ _ _ _ _ cn.:l1>e!4!J Nnmr U t1 Page 9 �Out With The Old, In With The New.... story and photos by Mary Burke In February, a three story brick building at 302 Mulberry Street in Over-the-Rhine was demolished. Earlier in the week several bricks had fallen off the building onto the street and sidewalk below, which might have prompted the owner or the Cincinnati Building Department to take action. According to the Hamilton County Auditor, the building was constructed in 1875. Douglas M. Spitz is the owner. County records show he purchased the then 122-year-old Before.... building on February 27, 1997 for $12,000. Simultaneous to this demolition, five new townhouses are being constructed at 126 through 134 Mulberry, just a block west of 302 Mulberry Street. The townhouses are listed for sale at a price range of $209,900 - $259,500. Each townhouse boasts a view of the city and brick & stone facades. The brick walls at 302 Mulberry were 3 bricks thick and the building, now demolished, provided a view of the city. After.... 5. Single Family Homes . City Vlews Open Floor Plans Two Car Garages Will Customize Several Floor Plans Two and One Holl Baths lox Abated Q11,i/i1_1 /311i/t llJ 1·111cJ111!/ /l•,11/1 I C¢1 f 01 )\)IC ij • MICHAELSWEENEY· ~e , . .c,.,01111.t 241 3400 00 Vine)1ard* lf(>l1E.I. le•. For Free Pre-Approvol Contact: Joanie Rees TravisArd 563-2021 521-1653 New condo up the street National Homeless Civil Rights Organizing Project (NHCROP) We'd like to hear from you.... Send letters or comments to: Streetvibes@Juno.com~ or write attn: Streetvibes 117 East 12th Street Cincinnati, Ohio 45202 STREETVIBES · •;, 117 East 12th Street Cincinnati, OH 45202 homelesscivilrights@yahoo.com Greater Cincinnati Coalition for the Homeless (513) 421-7803 April, 2004 Sensitivity to the immense needs ofhumanity brings with it a spontaneous rejection of the arms race, which is incom­ patible with the all out struggle against hunger, sickness, un­ der-development and illiteracy. Pope John Paul II Page 10 �Mother's Day is May 9. Whetl'er she is a mother, a grandmother, an aunt, a wire, or a.s;ster, Motl'er's Day is our chan:e to show the special women in our lives how much they really mean to us. Mother's Day is also a chance to honor tl'e spirit of motherin~ Mothers are there to make sure we are clotl'ed, clean,fed,safa, and warm. They are tl'ere to tuck us in and kiss away tears. They are there to read to us, to listen, and to steer us down the right path Nationally, 3.5 million people experience horrelessress over tl'e course of a year. Homeless families make up over 40% of that population. lhisyear in Cincimati alore, over 5,000 families and over 8,000 children will experien:e homelessness. The above drawing was created by Asherah, age nine. She was one of many participants in our Mother's Day card contest for homeless youth. Children across Ohio participated in tl'e comest. Asherah was a resident ofthe SalvationArrey Family Shelter in Cincimati at the time she drew this picture. Her family is one of 5,000 in Cin:innati that will experience You can honor your mother by helping the families who need it tl'e most. The Greater Cincinnati Coalition for the Horreless has been working for 20 years to eradicate horrelessness in Cincinnati. "vVe firmly believe that by coming together as a community, we can reach this goal. Please help us as we work to erase homelessness from the childhoodrremories of 8,000 kids in Cincinnati this year. r--------------------------------------------------, I By sending this corqileted form along with your donation, Asherah's Mother's Day card will be sent to the person you de.s;g­ lnate below. The card will inform the recipient that a donation has been made in his or her name to tl'e Coalition for tl'e Home­ lass. Donor's narre, address, and phore number N arne and address of the person to whom we should address tl'e card Who should the donation be placed in honor ofAn memory of! Who should we say the card is from? If you would lika the card sent to an additional person, please indicate on another sheet of paper 1he same information as above. Send this form along with your donation to: 'The Greater Cincinn:ali Coalition for tile Homeless, 117 East 1 ZSlred, Cincinn:ali, Ohio 4520Z ~--------------------------------------------------4 STREETVJBES April, 2004 Page 11 �Family Violence Option Campaign Builds Momentum by Lynn Williams well over halfofthe women receiving welfare have experienced OEC Organizer physical abuse by an intimate partner at some point during their From Rep. Jean Schmidt; adult lives, with as many as 30 "!wish the Family Violence Option would have been percent ofthese women reporting in place when !was going through abuse in a current relationship. a domestic violence crisis. It Many ofthese women want would have helped me get my life to escape the cycle ofabuse, to begin anew, and yet they find back together much sooner, " stated Catrina Weber, a member of difficulty in doing so because of the Ohio Empowerment Coalition requirements on our state welfare Steering Committee who spoke at system. ln the coming months I the OEC's Press Conference held at the Statehouse on February 17'» plan to introduce legislation that The Press Conference was held to will allow Ohio to adopt the draw public attention to the need Family Violence Option. This for the Family Violence Option in permits the waiver ofrequirements Ohio. Rep. Jean Schmidt, who has for a victim ofdomestic violence agreed to introduce the FVO when complying with those legislation, was unable to be requirements would make it more present due to campaigning in her difficult for the victim to escape domestic violence or would Distric~ but she released a public unfairly penalize the individual. statement for the Press Conference. Her aide, Ben Additionally, the bill will Larocco, was present to read Rep. address the need for a state system Schmidt's statement as fol/,ows: that will screen victims of domestic "The effects ofphysical, violence and refer them to mental and emotional abuse affect appropriate counseling and supportive services. Al/,owing hundreds ofthousands offamilies these individuals to escape the each and every year, sadly many in Ohio are included in that count­ environment ofabuse is essential and those are the ones we know in their return to healthy, fully about-likely hundreds more productive citi<Pts. silently endure this trauma, hoping I look forward to working with all involved on this one day for a glimmer ofhope. It is my intent to try to help legislation and I am honored to be these victims- victims ofabuse and involved in the effort to break the neglect, ofphysical battering and chain offamily violence in Ohio." emotional conflicts - victims The Press Conference through no fault oftheir own have followed a day long Presidents Day become part ofa destructive cycle Training to build media skills of that tears away at the very heart leaders from the OEC. The leaders offamilies today. then participated in the Press Conference the next day. Groups I am told that currently included Appalachian People's Action Coalition (APAC) of Athens; Stop Targeting Ohio's Poor (STOP), Cleveland; Empowerment Center of Greater Cleveland; Community Organizing Center, Columbus; Cincinnati Welfare Rights Coalition; Miami Valley Full Employment Council, Dayton; Bethany House Family Shelter, Cincinnati; Drop-Inn Center Full Circle Program, Cincinnati; and endorser group Action - Ohio Coalition for Battered Women, Columbus . The FVO is a state option that the Federal welfare law, otherwise known as Temporary Assistance to Needy Families or TANF, permits states to implement to protect domestic violence victims who apply for public assistance. Forty states, including Ohio's neighbors Kentucky and Indiana, have ah'eady adopted the Family Violence Option. Many studies have shown that domestic violence is prevalent in a majority of families who apply for public assistance. (Source: Welfare Information Network) As many as 60% ofwomen receiving pub lie assistance have been domestic violence victims as opposed to 22% in the general population. (Source: "A Review of Research on Welfare and Domes'tic Violence," Journal ofSocial Issues, 2000) The Family Violence Option will: o Ensure that public assistance recipients are screened for domestic violence by tJ:ained caseworkers Possible House Hearings on Exempt Status for 501(c) Groups Know Your Rights Brochure Available! In a March 2 speech to the Federation ofAmerican Hospitals, House 'vVays and l\i.Teans Committee Chair Bill Thomas (R-CA) said he wants the committee to investigate the benefits tax exempt groups give taxpayers, and consider whether more specific requirements shoold be imposed in exchange for exempt status. A committee spokesman said nothing has been scheduled. Thomas' speech raised the issue ofsimilar activities by nonprofit and for-pro.fit entities, such as credit unions and banks, saying, "Frankly there's been a lot of activity over the last decade in the tax-preferred area - the 501(c)(3)s, (c)(4)s, (c)(6)s - that requires a broader examination of just what is it the taxpayers are getting for their money." He said the issue was raised recently in a dispute between the American Hospital Association and the Department ofHealth and Human Services over hospital charges to uninsured patients. A committee spokesman said the scope of any inquiry would be broad, and not confined to credit unions and hospitals. Rent This Space/ (Business Card Size, adready copy) Reach 18, l.XX2 customers IDer month Only $25 per month. __ Call Streetvibes @ 421-7803 STREETVIBES April, 2004 o Make support services available to recipients o Allow recipients affected by domestic violence to be eligible for exemptions .from welfare time limits and work requirements by participating in alternative programs to help put their lives and the lives of their children together. "Right now there is no requirement that domestic violence victims who apply for welfare in Ohio will receive suppot'tive services to assist in overcoming this barrier." "Some counties provide a lot of help, but unfortunately, other counties do little or nothing. The FVO would improve this situation by requiring counties to assist domestic violence victims," said Katy Heins, Director of the Contact Center. The Ohio Empowerment Coalition is urging the Ohio Assembly and Governor to protect domestic violence victims in Ohio by adopting the Family Violence Option. A statewide Mobilization Conference/Lobby Day will be held on :tvlay 6 at the Trinity Episcopal Church, 125 E. Broad Street, in Coltunbus tocontinue mobilizing on the FVO Campaign. For more information about the Conference and/or the Family Violence Option Campaign call the Ohio Empowerment Coalition at 1-877­ 862-5179. Rep. Jean Schmidt may be contacted at 614466-8134 or ·write her at 77 South High Street, Columbus, 43215. The Know Your Rights Brochure is now available at the Coalition's office. The brochure is a legal guide for Cincinnati's h omeless and covers a person's basic rights when interacting with the police, as well as some local laws that might be of interest to the homeless population. If you are a homeless person or if you work with homeless people and would 1ike to obtain free copies of the brochm·e for yourself or your agency, pleasecall 421-7803, or stop by the Coalition office and pick one up. Politics Page 12 �Manifest Destiny by Adam Holdorf, Real Change newspaper UC Berkeley International Studies professor Chalmers Johnson has been a Cold Warrior for much of his career. When the Soviet Union crumbled, he expected the United States ­ declaring itself the winner of the US-Soviet face-off - to pack up its Cold War military outposts, consummate its nuclear disarmament treaties, and devote itself to peacetime pursuits. Appalled by U.S. foreign policy in the 1990s, he began to wonder: had America's arms race against the Soviets masked some more fundamental purpose? The result of those musings was his 2000 book, Blowback: the Costs and Consequences of American Empire, which ignited a brush fire among foreign-policy wonks over to what degree U.S. citizens are endangered by their country's foreign policy in places such as the Middle East. Then came September 11, 2001. People asking "Why do they hate us?" had, in Blowback, an answer. The network of American military bases on every continent except Antarctica; the secret and not-so­ secret wars which have taken civilian lives from Panama to the Philippines - the price of American hegemony, he had warned, is terrorism against its citizens. Now, writes Johnson in The Sorrows of Empire, "it no longer seems necessary to issue warnings; instead a diagnosis, even an autopsy, may be more appropriate." The American Empire - the military's untempered and untethered operations, the Bush doctrines of "preventive war" and unilateralism - is all about us. And no regime change in the White House will make it go away. "A revolution would be required," he writes. But Johnson finds hope, too - in the millions of marchers who opposed the Iraq War; in the anti­ globalization movement that debuted in Seattle in 1999; in the vehement disagreement of 30 percent of the American public to our nation's policies. RC: You have said that you began thinking of the United States' foreign policy as one of empire when you visited Okinawa. Johnson: I was invited by the governor of Okinawa, the poorest, most southerly island of Japan, after the incident of September 4, 1995, in which two Marines and a sailor had abducted, beaten, and STREETVIBES raped a 12-year-old girl. The When George Bush says we nuclear weapons [with regard to Iraq]. are the greatest force of good in Pentagon would have you believe Third, a tradition of deceit the 1995 rape was a single, unusual history, or when he says "You're incident. The truth of the matter is either with us or against us," which by the government in speaking to is a line Lenin liked too, but it the public. I would cite above all that the rate of sexually violent February 5, 2003, when Secretary crimes in Okinawa leading to court actually comes from the Bible ­ we're talking about a passionate martial is about two per month. of State Colin Powell sat in the One of the things I remember most ideological error that is leading us United Nations Security Council into, my opinion, very very vividly is the locals' deep and and issued a long statement that, as we now know, was an utter tissue dangerous straits. abiding belief that they were being Security of Defense victimized by both the Japanese of lies. Our Secretary of State has Rumsfield in October said that "we simply no credibility left on earth. government and by the Pentagon. Fourth, bankruptcy. The island was essentially a military don't have a metric" - his phrase, meaning a measure - we don't have Everyone knows what is happening colony between 1945 and 1972. The Japanese government, which to the American federal deficit; it is a metric for whether we are wishes to have the alliance with the succeeding against terrorism. But I catastrophic. As Herbert Steinman, who was once Chairman of the United States but does not want to think we do have a metric: in the have American troops located very eight years between 1993 and Council of Economic Advisers once close to its own citizens, essentially 2001, including the attacks of 9111, said, "Things that can't go on forever don't." Whatever you dumps them all in the equivalent of Al Qaeda carried out five major think of the Constitution, I Puerto Rico. bombing incidents around the guarantee you an economic crisis is My first in reaction was that world. Since that time, in just two something that everyone will have Okinawa must be exceptional. As a years, down to including the to come to grips with when it suicide attacks in Istanbul against result of studying American bases around the world, I concluded that the British consulate and the HSBC occurs, and it could happen at any Bank, Al Qaeda has carried out 17 time. the real tragedy of Okinawa was not that it was unusual or atypical ­ major bombings. The situation of RC: You're saying that the fault it was far too typical of the sexually terrorism is clearly worse now lies deeper than with the current violent crimes, environmental since 9/11, and reveals the administration. Do you see hope pollution, noise, bar brawls, drunk inappropriateness of an overly for change in your lifetime? driving accidents that are militarized response to terrorist Johnson: I think it's perfectly associated with our overseas bases. incidents. possible to imagine the removal of President Bush and his RC: Are there lessons for our RC: You say it would take "a administration. He seems well on occupation of Iraq in this? revolution" to return to some of Johnson: It's really interesting how the principles that were his way toward discrediting himself. But no matter who much the American press has tried expressed in the Declaration of replaces him, we'll have enormous to suggest that our bringing Independence - a declassified difficulties standing up to the democracy to Japan under General CIA budget, for example. Is it vested interests of the Pentagon, MacArthur after World War II is a too late for the democratic the intelligence agencies, and the model for our activities in Iraq. principles that founded our military-industrial complex. If you I've wanted to always say that if republic? you believe that, then you've got to The Pentagon would have you believe the 1995 rape was a leave Okinawa single, unusual incident. The truth of the matter is that the entirely out of the rate of sexually violent crimes in Okinawa leading to court discussion, because the last martial is about two per month. One of the things I remember thing we ever did most vividly is the locals' deep and abiding belief that they was bring were being victimized by both the Japanese government and by democracy to the Pentagon ... Okinawa. It's certainly a place Johnson: That's what we're going where no one thanks the United ask me right now whether I think that's going to happen, I'm sorry to to find out, in a very short period States for its presence. say I really don't. I think the polls RC: Your very first quote in The of time. My last chapter called "The Sorrows of Empire" has a strongly suggest that 70 percent of Sorrows of Empire is President Bush saying "Our nation is the the public endorses the Bush discussion of four main sorrows. Administration and the war policy; One is perpetual war: Bush and greatest force for good in Cheney have mentioned between history." You trace that 30 percent is adamantly opposed. 50 and 60 nations on earth that And 30 percent in a country as big sentiment back to Woodrow Wilson and his League of as the United States is not a small they would like to bring about number. Nations, and show it's led many a regime change through preventive One of the things that war. leader astray. Where did we go Second, the end of the appalls me about the current wrong this time? Republic, in the sense of the political situation is how none of Johnson: The United States has hollowing out of the Constititution: the Democrat [presidential made potentially a fatal mistake James Madison, easily the most candidates] seem to be offering an after the demise of the Soviet important author of the alternative to what American Union in 1991 in starting to Constitution, declared that the behavior in the world should be. convince itself that it is a new None of them have any real single most important article in it Rome. That we are a colossus afoot in the world, no one can was that the right to go to war had criticism of the size of the Defense possibly resist our military power, budget, the amount of money to be in the hands of those elected by the people, never in the hands of spent. Some of them - that is, we are beyond good and evil, we a single man. In October 2002, our most of them - voted for war do not need friends. We begin to sound like the Roman Empire, Congress voted to give that power powers to be transferred to the to a single man when he felt like it, President [in the case of Iraq]. which of course was a military on his impulse, including the use of dictatorship. April, 2004 GCCH News Page 13 �Spring Within These Walls .... by Michael Henson First hints: A red haze among the maples. A great clutter of branches thrown down by a storm. A row of daffodils that raise their baffled heads out of the cold beds of the garden. The light, stretched back by the black fingers of the trees at the horizon, stretched back by the rooftops at the head of the alley, ekes out the lingering days. The winter rains become the spring rains, cold and persistent. The rivers rise to their banks; they darken with silt. They boil coldly in their drive to the Gulf bearing downstream anything loose in their path. Then, a day that ignites green fires at the tips of the sycamores. A day when the earth shimmers with a dim mammalian pulse. After the million deaths of winter, partisan births, clandestine cadres, in tens and twelves, here, and here, and in the hedges. Everything swells. Everything grows more numerous. New hungers arise, some small as the belly of a vole, some neatly small as thought. Others large as a field of wheat. Still others larger than we dare name. Everywhere the hungers assert themselves. They stretch among the root hairs in the compost. They call from the nests tucked in the branches of the cedars. They quiver on the dark floor of every pond. They weep themselves known in the houses of the poor. by Reenie Ware Gadsden Correctional Facility, Quincy, Florida I've developed a relationship with God; I've put all my trust in Him, It is God, and only God who can help me conquer sin, We're all God's children and we all fall short, Only God can judge us for He truly knows our heart. I've met different people from all walks of life, We're all fighting sin, to stop doing wrong and instead do right. I've learned to care, love and respect myself, I've learned that I am more important than anyone else. I've had a chance to realize just how valuable my life is, A chance to realize it's not better to receive than give. Give to one another because it is the right thing to do, To give to those who are less fortunate than you. I've lived, I've learned and I've changed for the better, I've learned that change brings on new challenges. Within these walls is not where I want to be, However, within these walls is where I've regained my sanity. Tell Me Who? by Robert Manassa Who woke me up this morning? Who stops my heart from yearning? To do the things I know is wrong Who keeps me safe from all harm? Tell Me Who? Who puts shoes on my feet? Who gave me food to eat? Who stops me from living a life of crime? Who keeps me in check, walking a straight line? Tell Me Who? Some may say it's Emanuel, The man who met the woman at the well, I need to find an answer soon, Before I'm met with doom Tell Me Who? CHILD OF THE UNIVERSE We See You by Merry Ferrell Hey you, standing over there. On every corner, everywhere. Dealing drugs to your family and friends, Give your brother a hit, he'll never quit. Can't you see, they are losing their mind? Her looks are gone, his teeth are missing. They've lost their hope and dreams and their Homes. You think you're Kool. I know you are a Fool. I tried it once, I tried it twice. I don't like it. You say you are looking for the ultimate high. You'll never find it, you will slowly die. The Crack drug slowly eats you from the inside out. The dealer eats your money and leaves you alone. No love. No joy. He's gone. God held my hand and He held on tight. He showed me what was wrong and what was right. I'm never alone. He shares my Home, my Dream my Joy, my Life. I firmly believe that mother universe will provide all that I am in need of to sustain this life of mine. Each of us can harness the talents and energies to accomplish everything we set for ourselves as a goal. We are each in the space and place we belong in. Where we are and where we are headed is already pre-destined. It has been determined by the seeds we have sewn in this life and by those of the past. Its success depends on how well we attend to the crop we have planted within us. when in doubt we must speak truthfully...... .in all matters love every one with a open hand ...... even when it is painful to do so ..... .look into tomon-ow and do what is for the good of all ...... .including you Great care should be taken of what you manifest. Do not speak or act anything negative into existence ... Knowingly refrain from these activities. STREETVIBES April, 2004 Art & Poetry Page 14 �Always with you, Always with me Brick by Brett Zwoli11ski byjh mountains we climb and seas we traverse time we buy and life passes by in my mind there is but only one thought .. madden ing horror. pent up fear illusions, inebriating crimes told again and again, the story of mine whose life are we seeing? how and when did it all begin? lt is the famous bricks, pinning our hopes to cold concrete. broken glass. and scattered dreams. Because. it is real, it.becomes a triumph, breaking the calm with deliglltfulsounds and hope from a child's vo ice. ti mes immemorial, deathunveiled e mpty and bleeding, caroused and cheating Please understand my fear I' m the only one standing here When I woke up. I didn't know what to do f do remember I prayed to you This time and place is new to me There's no instruction for me to see Please God can I hold your hand At least I won't be lonely as I stand My feelings and goals are hard to do But God. deep in my heart, there really for you Their paths you make and choices you give Are.those that I chooe to live You are my master, I am your servant I seek you. l submit to you Even without you in my view With your grace and mercy everyday l can face fear and doubt in every way As everyday goes past My faith in you. I know will last Thank you God in every way Thank you God just for today to let go ... Now we hold on even tighter grasp for breath of fres h air; ahhh... the spirit released... earth inhaled to our nostrils becoming one with yourself in passionate fit rage and rancor, tearing at flesh killing me softly, taking my breath love is liberty, love is freedom love is mercy, love is justice Sendyour poetry to Streetvibes 117East12th Street, Cin, 0 45202 lt is, because there is a dream. cloaking the desperation with denial and a foolish dance, tapping the broken concrete, like a broken hammer. lt comes to us, because it never dries your eyes, but breaks your heart There is enough pain to consume your spirit. And then it dies because the ancient mantra fortifies the dreadful discourse, allowinghumans to pass in the street, asleep. Gregory Payton _____ ,,_ ' r:..f_ _:__ by Jimmy Heath ..........=.......,...---· • Window Jesus, Over-the-Rhine STREETVIBES April, 2004 Art & Poetry Page 15 �Spinning the Past, Threatening the Future fusl within themselves. Pl:llilical aphorisms don' t Perhaps such steeliness has been almost ooilerplae in gal any more c oganl: "Who oonlrols the post cont ras the history; excuses for ~gressive future; who cont ras the present w ar have never been hard to come oonlrols the past." by. Jn this c ase, no amount of Georga Orwell's famous gaopdilical analysis - from media pundits, acaiemics and observation lJ"'S a long way toward e xplaining why- a full other commentators - CC1Uld year after the invasion of Iraq ­ really do more lo shed light than the m edia battles oorer prewar lies the l ight bulb comprehension that lhese people in c harge h:rl from are so ferccioos i n the United lhe o utset macre the determination Slates. Top oimini.stralion officials are going all out to that war ii would be. airbrush yeslen:lay's creceplions on So, e very attemp t al civic l:ehalf of lcdays. And tomorrow's. engagamenl and demonstrations The future they want most against the war £ enario was, in effect, trying to impede '1eaiers" to conlid starts on Election Day. And with scarcely seven months who h :rl already gone aroond the bend .A very big berrl. One of the to g<> in the presid2nlial American m ass media taboos was campaign, the past that Bush officials are most eaga to obscure lo serious!y suggest the possibility that the Joi of them - Bush, is their own record. Jn late 2IXl2 and e arly last year, wheneorer the Cheney, Rumsfeld, Rice and, yes, drive to war hit a bump , they I'bwall - were, in lheir purs uit of w ar on Iraq, significantly maneuvered carefully to keep the w~ car<Nan moving ste.adil y deranged. Wetting b a:;k from their forw ard. There was no doobt; they conclusion of war's necessity, lop were a hard.driving bunch. The Bush aiministraliono fficials ­ mo.st powerful .oi.u :rl of the Bush with assistance from many foreign-policy team rano n the reporters and pundits - were fuel o f certitucre at such a reading t he c alendar backwazds, prodigious rate that e""' their hell-bent en gaiting lhe i nvasion uncrerway well before the e>.treme momentum had momentum ­ mayte, in p art, because their heal of summer. lives' trajectories seemed to T here was ilio pdilical cremand it. War h:rl been declared weather lo be naoigated. Though by Nomum,Sclomon, powerful than munitions." L ater, m uch mare susceplibbo lo any and all words were to be m anipulation than the four vasll y outma1ched by the big guns se..ons , the electoral storms trained on lrtq. would be starling for the 2004 One afternoon, 14 mcnlhs prasidenlial contest, and a secured ago, inside a little shop in v ictory o<rer Iraq well in aiv ance Baghdad's crowded souk, a young seemed aivisable. boy sat behind an old de.sk, l:row n The pea:;e-saeking e yes wicre, quielly wat hing his pretense w as dripping with father unfurl carpets far polenlial charaie in the moolhs before t he c us\\:l:ners, and I woncrered: «Will invasion. Journalists kepi wriling my country's missiles kill you?" and talking about the chances of Key questions of the past war as though Presid2nt Bush are also crucial far the future. For instance, c an the United Stales h ain't alreaiy m aie up his mind lo o rd2r ii. Yet w hat Bush said in c redibly wage a " war on public w as e xa:;lly opposite to terrorism.. by engaging in warfare reality- a «one.eighly."When that terrorizes civilians? he t alked about preferring lo find Clo... lo 10,000 lrtqi an <eceptabbo alternaliva lowar, c ivilians haoe died because of the he was det>rmined lo bypa.<s and war during the past year. destroy every allernati"8 to w... Does the mix of mendacity R alional arguments would and deadly violence from the Oval not Work lo forest all the Office really strike against terrorism . or does ii fuel terrorist presidential order to unlea.sh the Pantagon. Despite the obstacles, cycles? which included vital a:;livism arrl Arrl, i n the realm of news p rotests for pe.,e , the c hief media, how many journalists are execuli"8 easily gpt to have his willing and able to go beyond war - the best kind, to be fought reliance on official sources and endUied on! y by others . e nough lo bring us truth about lies that result in creath? Eighteen months agp, looking out at Baghdad frcm an Nonnt0t Solhrrt.on wrU s a: upper story of a hot>!, I thought of sy»dicatetl colllmn o n mdiaa>>i poleics. He is co-avthor (weh something Albert Camus once w rote. « And henceforth, the only Reese Et!ich) of' Targa Iraq: What the N ews M edia Didn't Tell honorable course will be lo sl ake everything on a formidable Yoa," pablishetl in 2003 by g amble: that wards are more Co >Uxt Books. story, Editorial "A1aybe we could get a betrer pricejor 1he car ij'we hired a real estate agent." and Art Submis­ sion Deadline/or the iWav. 2004 edition of STREETVIBES is Friday, April 9th Streetvibes exists as a f orum for the expression of the •·iews a11d opinions of our readers and supporters. The opinions exp ressed herein are not necessarily those of the Streetvibes sta or the Greater Cincinnati Coalition for the Homeles-s. STREETVIBES April, 20-04 Editorial Page 16 �have allocated an entire ly Buy Me Love manufactured romantic symbo lism of"reality" te levision, but the cyberspace? Why are we so profits are undeniable. Te levision accepting o f this marketplace of networks don' t have to pay to these objects. human product? According to one by Hannah Kane Stranger still isthe fact that study, conducted by Andrea Baker enormous sa Jaries to reality The Beatles proclaimed in 1964 that money can't buy me te levision "stars;•and .advertisers we buy into the diamond industry's of Ohio University, Lancaster, the love. J-Lo echoed that S€lltiment in messages about the relationships are anxious to get the attention of average commitment time for 2001 when she argued that love between men and women and couples who meet online is theyoung demographic that has latched onto the genre. In fact, the accelerated- they tend to fall in don't cost a thing. In 40 years, pop money. The diamond industry's advertising is unabashedly sexist, love and marry within a year to a popu larity ofthese shows have music has maintained its belief in year and a half. As is the case with c aused executives to rethink the the sacredness oflove. Love is heterosexist, and materialistic. sO!llethingthatshouldn' tbe Feminist, GLBT, and anti­ many other new technologies, we way television is made. Reruns are purchased. It should remain consumerism movements, however, can' t get enough of those gadgets, out, new "casts" are in. And this have failed to prevent diamonds , a inventions, and inn ovations that means there will be no shortage of untainted despite our culture of frivolous luxury, from somehow capitalism and commodification. help us to maximize our time. Why "reaf' television love stories for us But love has fallen victim to glittering their way into mainstream should it be any differentregarding to gossip about, or to participate in our quest for love? the same consumer culture that consciousness. Perhaps the true for those who are inclined. turned religion into glow-in-the­ irony of the diamond industry is the So, if anyone is looking to An even more recent prove the Beatles wrong, there is a fact that, despite c'laims that "a addition to the love industry dark Jesus keychains and major diamond is forever," diamonds can arrived with the reality television deP3ftment store sales that wealth ofevidence to point to that commemorate formerly religious boom of the past several television supports the theory that love is in fact be shattered, chipped, holidays. discolored, or destroyed. seasons. Picking up where "Love indeed for sale. Nowadays, one can There's more to peddling Love is the final frontier in Connection" and "'The Dating buy love via romance novels, love love than just diamonds. Game" left off, hit shows like "The Before song c ompilation albums, dating the war between what we hold you even consider giving or sacred and what we are willing to Bachelor:· "The Bachelorette," services, personal ads, lingerie, manufacture, brand, and bargain wearing a ring, you have to find the "Joe Millionaire," "Average Joe," romantic comedy films, sex toys, for. And the truth is, it's a losing right person.And the masterminds "B!ind Date," "Elirnidate," "Who magazines, and more. And that behind internet dat ing want to help "Wants to Marry a Multi­ doesn' t include the abundance ofe­ battle. Millionaire?," "Who Vtants to solicitations that appear in our In a world of internet dating you. For a fee, services like and television marriages, love is match.com and love.com will allow Marry My Dad?," (are you inboxesevery day, inviting us to becoming decidedly less romantic. you to enter your specifications and exhausted yet'!) are changing the grow, augment, join, and other less-than-pure verbs , all of which But we first took the he art out of find the perfect mate. If you're the way America dates. Dating is no love long ago. In 1948, De Beers longer a private affair between two will make us more attractive to type ofperson who already knows what you' re looking for (no taller people, as millions of viewers tune others. For those of us looking for told us that a diamond is forever and we , blinded by the 14 sparkly than 6' 2" , no shorter than5'10"; a more conventional form of love , in each week and discuss around carats of a history-making PR perhaps 'Ille can find comfort in J­ the water cooler the next day. brown eyes, please; smokers need campaign, agreed. not apply; wanting to adopt Dating is no longer a personal Lo's heartfelt lyrics-provided, of In 1888, De Beers children), then you might as.weII matter as some shows give the c ourse, we can get past the glint viewing audience the power to speed up the Darwinian process from her $3 million 6.1 carat Harry Consolidated Mines, Ltd. was created to capitalize on the and get on with the virtual determine the romantic fates of the Wmstonpink diamond engagement lovelorn. Dating is no longer ring. enormous diamond mines that had matchmaking. recently been discovered in South romantic as cameras zoom in on HatZJtah is a senior at This is more than a niche Africa. Before 187 0, diamonds first kisses and microphones market - some people are getting Emerson Co!kge, and doesn't rich off of other people's desire for arnplifythesweetnothing,s. No, were truly a rare commodity; the watch as much TVas one might only known sources were in the romance. Singles looking for love dating is not what it used to be. assume. Reprinted from the riverbeds in India and the jungles of spent over .$300 million on online Reality television has made it Febmary 2004 issue of Vl'hat's personal ads in 2002. weird, perverted, voyeuristic, Brazil. After the South African Up, Baston. mines were discovered, De Beers Why are people so willing cynical,clicM, and profitable. to put themselves on sale in People question the reality quickly monopolized the g loba I industry and organized a massive advertising campaign in an effort to maintain the now mythical perception that diamonds are precious and scarce, and thus maintain a high market value. Much has been written about "conflict diamonds" or "blood diamonds;' detailing the horrific labor and human rights abuses that characterize the diamond industry. Despite the controversy, 85 percent of American women own a piece of diamond jewelry. The industry's advertising campaigns consistently and effectively portray the diamond as themostmeaningfulexpress ion oflove and devotion. Considering the fact that diamonds serve an entire ly utilitarian purpose (industrial precision-cutting) and have little intrinsic monetary value, and that the diamond industry has managed to maintain its extraordinarily high prices all these A wire wall Sculpture, 1821 Race Street, Findlay Market in Over-the-Rhine years, it's a.Jmost bizarre that we Berta's Art Corner STREETVIBES April, 2004 Editorial Page 17 �Handling of Huntington Meadows a Crime by Brian Garry "high level." It's the black church against the black people. It's the black church against poor people. Where were those churches during the whole scandalous, criminal, and planned closing of Huntington Meadows? This community of people surrounded their churches. The churches should have stood up for the residents. Search the newspapers and see if there are any quotes from these pastors (Ed. Note; The former Huntington Meadows housing complex was closed last year and low-income tenants were moved out. New condominiums are planned with neighborhood churches taking the lead in development of the site.) In Huntington Meadows we have black on black crime on a "standing up for" their defenseless neighbors in need. Now the churches are pawns in the hands of politicians and "developers" that are part of a racist and classist plot to rid the city of poor and black people. Our city council said that they "had no money" for the former residents, yet they have 13.5 million to wreck it down and build expensive single family houses? The closing of Huntington Meadows was criminal, as will come out the in lawsuit filed in federal court. The deal with the churches developing the area is hypocritical at least. These churches did not stand up to fight the immoral closing of Huntington Meadows and they are now reaping the benefits ofthis hideous mass eviction. Show me a quote from that time period from one of those pastors advocating that the people not be kicked out of their homes. The church should protect the rights of the poor, not stand on their backs to climb up the economic ladder. A Broken Promise: the limits of work in the new economy by Timothy Harris A recession, the old joke goes, is when your neighbor is out of work, but when you lose your own job, that's a depression. So what happens when one in four full time workers often has to choose between rent, food, and utilities, and at least that many more are excluded from the economy altogether? That's when the joke really stops being funny. Two recent books offer an fresh look at the demise of the American Dream. Beth Shulman's The Betrayal ofWork examines the trend toward low wage work and how all of us, in the long run, pay the hidden costs. Keeping Up with the Dow Joneses, which describes the growing equality gap, the burgeoning prison state, and the system of workfare, is more ambitious but ultimately over-reaches. Its critique of neo-liberalism offers less of a unifying theme than a long list of things we' re against. It is this tone of "we leftists" against the world that undermines this book's appeal. The Betrayal ofWork, on the other hand, begins with the common sense notion that a fair day's work should draw a fair day's pay. While this hasn't been the case for at least two decades, the problems of low wage work, says Shulman, go far beyond the minimum wage. Benefits in the low wage service sector are mostly non­ existent. The work is often demeaning and dangerous with management by intimidation being the norm. There is little to no flexibility to deal with sickness, childcare, or family problems. Little training or chance for advancement is available. Shulman brings what could be a dry policy discussion to life with by allowing three workers to speak for themselves. Single mom Linda Stevens once dreamed of being a business lawyer, but now stmggles to raise a daughter while working full­ time in a food court and part-time as a clerk. "I work hard," she says. "I take care of my customers. But I feel like I'm being stabbed in the back. The owner keeps telling me that we are family. But this is no way to treat family." Janitor Flor Segunda supports a disabled husband who is only able to work occasional day labor and three children on $6.00 an hour. She has worked for the same employer for six years. Bob Butler sharpens knives at a poultry processing plant. At $8.20 an hour, he is one of the factory's most highly compensated workers. "They care about the chickens more than us," he says. The Betrayal ofWork makes three arguments for a more just economy: Low wage work is not just somebody else's problem. We all pay because society subsidizes low wage industries by picking up the social costs of widespread poverty. Similarly, we all benefit by low wage work in ways that are deeply unfair. A moral society does not maintain cheap prices in the midst of affluence at the expense of the most desperately poor. Finally, bad jobs do not have to remain bad jobs. The manufacturing sector was filled with lousy jobs as well before organized labor created the 40-hour week, benefits, and the family wage. There is no reason, she argues, that the service industty cannot be unionized as well. In fact, this is the only strategy likely to yield results. The service sector needs to organize, and the more privileged middle-class needs to move beyond single-issue fragmentation to support the stmggles of the working poor. The alternative is a never-ending race to the bottom in which we all lose. Keeping Up With The Dow Joneses documents a divided society as well, where the growing gap between rich and poor is buttressed by a system geared to profit for the few at the expense of the many. Author Vijay Prashad unites the attack on organized labor, the expanding prison-industrial complex, and the rollback of welfare that was completed under the Clinton administration under the rubric of neo-liberalism. The book veers from the overly general to the weirdly specific. For example, Prashad takes the militant Kensington Welfare Rights Vendor: 70 cents Printing and Production: 30 cents Union to task for not having a "program for the transformation of the state." This sort of sectarian squabbling, however well meant, is probably interesting to a couple dozen people, and no one - outside of those few who have actually used the phrase "this historic juncture" in the course of casual conversation - cares what they think. Real social transformation requires a broad­ based movement that has appeal beyond the left ghetto. If practical program is what you're looking for, Shulman offers specifics. Where Prashad merely instmcts us to "build socialism," the final chapter of Betrayal of Work offers a "Compact With Working Americans." This includes policy recommendations as broad as strengthening the right of workers to organize and as specific as expanding the Earned Income Tax Credit. While much of the platform goes well beyond what mainstream Democrats would now support, it's amazing what can happen when enough people shove hard in the same direction. Reprinted from Real Change Where Your Dollar Goes .. . The Streetvibes program maintains a minimal overhead cost so that our vendors can keep as much of the proceeds as possible. Please call our office at 421-7803 for more information about the program. Many thanks for your support. Streetvibes exists as a forum for the expression of the views and opinions of our readers and supporters. The opinions expressed herein are not necessarily those of the Streetvibes staff or the Greater Cincinnati Coalition for the Homeless. STREETVIBES April, 2004 Editorial Page 18 �FRAC-Food Research and Action Center News One of the most disturbing and extraordinary aspects of life in this very wealthy country is the persistence of hunger. The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) reports, based on a national U.S. Census Bureau survey of households representative of the U.S. population, that in 2002 , 11.1 percent of all U.S. households were "food insecure" because of lack of resources. Of the 12.1 million households that were food insecure, 3.8 million suffered from food insecurity that was so severe that USDA's very conservative measure classified them as "hungry." Since 1999, food insecurity has increased by 3.9 million individuals: 2.8 million adults and more than one million children. In 2002, 34.9 million people lived in households experiencing food insecurity, compared to 33.6 million in 2001 and 31 million in 1999. See FRAC's analysis of and a link to the full report: Household Food Security in the United States, 2002 Definitions: What Do Hunger and Food Insecurity Mean in the United States? Very simply, hunger is defined as the uneasy or painful sensation caused by lack of food. When "hunger in America" is discussed, people are referring to the recun-ent and involuntary lack of access to sufficient food due to poverty or constrained resources, which can lead to malnutrition over time. In some developing nations where famine is widespread, hunger manifests itself as severe and very visible clinical malnutrition. In the United States hunger manifests itself, generally, in a less severe form. This is in part because established programs help to provide a safety net for many low­ income families. While starvation seldom occurs in this country, children and adults do go hungry and chronic mild undemutrition does occur when financial resources are low. The mental and physical changes that accompany inadequate food intakes can have harmful effects on learning, development, productivity, physical and psychological health, and family life. STREETVIBES New phrases have emerged over the last two decades to describe the widespread but less severe hunger problems we typically face in the United States. Food security is a term used to describe what our nation should be seeking for all its people ­ assured access at all times to enough food for an active, healthy life, with no need for recourse to emergency food sources or other extraordinary coping behaviors to meet basic food needs. In a nation as affluent as ours this is a readily achievable goal. EDITORIAL: EFFECTS OF FOOD INSECURITY ON PATIENTS (American Academy of Family Physicians, March 1, 2004) In this editorial David H. Holben of Ohio University College of Health and Human Services and Wayne Myles of Ohio University College of Osteopathic Medicine, discuss the role physicians can play with patients who may suffer from food insecurity or hunger. The editorial suggests ways in which physicians can determine if a patient experiences food insecurity or hunger, the effects food insecurity and hunger have on health and development, and which federal food assistance programs physicians can refer patients to if a patient is thought to be experiencing food insecurity or hunger. http://www.aafp.org/ afp/20040301 I editorials .html#3 TEXAS AGRICULTURE DEPARTMENT REVAMPS RULES ON WHAT FOODS SCHOOLS CAN SERVE TO STUDENTS (US A Today, March 4, 2004) The Texas Depaitment of Agriculture released new regulations for school food service to reduce the fat and sugar content of foods eaten by students at school. The regulations include limiting the number of times foods such as French fries ai·e served, limiting portion sizes (e.g., 12 oz limit on soft drinks), and the sugar/syrup content of foods such as flavored milks and canned fruit. In August 2003, Texas Agriculture Commissioner Susan Combs banned "foods of minimal nutritional value" from Texas elementary schools and during lunch time at middle schools. The new rules will affect some 4.2 million school children. These regulations will go into effect in August 2004 at schools that participate in the National School Lunch Program, School Breakfast Program and After School Snacks. http:// www.usatoday.com/news/health/ April, 2004 2004-03-04-school­ nutrition_x.htm The link to the regulations is: http:// www.agr.state.tx.us/foodnutrition/ policy/food_nutrition_policy.pdf BERKELEY, CALIFORNIA MIDDLE SCHOOL STUDENTS GROW, PREPARE OWN MEALS (New York Times Magazine, March 7, 2004) On the campus of Mm.tin Luther King Jr. Middle School, in Berkeley, California, students grow and prepare their own school lunches, getting a "seed to table experience" that reinforces the connection between the earth and the food we eat. The program is part of the "Edible Schoolyard" program inspired and led by Alice Waters, organic chef and owner of Berkeley's Chez Panisse restaurant. Waters hopes that these predominantly low- to middle-income students will learn about the food they eat and consume more fruits and vegetables. http:// www.nytimes.com/2004/03/07 I magazine/07WATERS .html (free registration required) REPORT FINDS THAT PUBLIC ASSISTANCE DOES NOT COVER BASIC EXPENSES FOR MICHIGAN FAMILIES (Grand Rapids Press, Grand Rapids, MI, March 8, 2004) A study by the Michigan County Social Services Association, designed to measure the buying power of people receiving public assistance, found that families enrolled in TANF and food stamps ended up about $900 short each month when trying to cover basic expenses. These expenses include rent, utilities, food and transportation. The 2004 Market Basket Survey found that a family of three needed to pay $1,733 in basic expenses each month, more than twice what the average family receives in benefits. http://www.mlive.com/news/ statewide/index.ssf?/base/news-3/ 1078440003205080.xml NORTHWEST INDIANA FOOD PANTRY OFFERS ETHNIC FOOD CHOICES, SERVICES TO SPANISH­ SPEAKING CLIENTS (Times, Munster, IN, March 11, 2004) The Village Food Pantry in Valparaiso, Indiana staited a weekly Spanish Food Pantry on Fridays in order to assist Spanish­ speaking clients by serving them staple foods from their native countries (e.g., pinto beans, rice, com flour and jalapenos). The Spanish Food Pantry also assists FRAC News families in obtaining benefits like food stamps, health care and other services. The food pantry is also working to translate its client paperwork into Spanish. The first Spanish Food Pantry night was attended by 21 percent of the pantry's regular clientele. http:// nwitimes.com/aiticles/2004/03/ 11/news/porter_county/ fa546ff4355c93318625€Je540006re04.txt NEW HAMPSHIRE STATE LABOR COMMISSIONER URGES LEGISLATORS TO RAISE MINIMUM WAGE (Portland Press Herald, Portland, ME, March 9, 2004) Labor Commissioner James Casey tried to salvage a bill that would increase New Hampshire's minimum wage to $6 an hour, pointing out that, at $5 .15 per hour, the state's minimum wage is at least $1.10 below all other states in New England. Casey said that an increase would be "the right thing to do, the compassionate thing to do." He also noted that no other New England state "has reported higher unemployment as a result" of a minimum wage increase. An estimated 31,000 workers in New Hampshire earn minimum wage. http://news.mainetoday.com/ apwire/D8 16E9GG2-67 .shtml WISCONSIN FOOD PANTRY SEES INCREASE IN NEEDY PEOPLE (Wisconsin State Journal, Madison, WI, March 8, 2004) The St. Vincent de Paul Society food pantry in Madison has seen a significant increase in the number of needy people. The number of clients at the pantry has increased 35 percent in one month and more than 20 percent over the previous quarter. According to society director Ralph Middlecamp, the reasons for the jump in need are because many people who were working two jobs to get by have lost one in the slow economy, and an increasing number of Chicago residents ai·e moving to Madison. "Chicago is undergoing some hard times economically, and the city is also tearing down some of its housing projects," Middlecamp theorized. http:// www.madison.com/archives/ read.php ?ref=wsj : 2004:03 :08:345387:FRONT To subscribe to the weekly FRAC News Digest go on the web: http://capwiz.com/fraclmlml. Ben Winter Food Research and Action Center (202) 986-2200 x3019 phone (202) 986-2525 fax Email: bwinter @frac.org Page 19 �$1 Donation Need Help or Want to Help? Mt. Airy Center 661-4620 Volunteers of Amer. 381-1954 Ifyou need help or would like to help please call one of the Greater Cincinnati Coalition for the Homeless members listed below. SHELTER: Both Anthony House 357-4602 (Youth) Caracole (AIDS) 761-1480 Friars Club 381-5432 Drop Inn Center 721-0643 Haven House 863-8866 Interfaith Hospitality 471-1100 Lighthouse Youth Center (Teens) 861-1111 St. John's Housing 651-6446 ~~fulle~RS: Women and YWCA Battered Women's Shelter 872-9259 (Toll Free) 1-888-872-9259 Bethany House 557-2873 Salvation Army 762-566 O Welcome Hse. 859-431-8717 Women's Crisis Center 859-491-3335 HOUSING: CMHA Excel Development Miami Purchase OTR Housing Net. ReSTOC Tender Mercies Tom Geiger House SHELTER: Men City Gospel Mission 241-5525 Garden St. House 241-0490 Joseph House (Veterans) 241-2965 St. Francis/St .Joseph House 381-4941 TREATMENT: Women First Step Home 961-4663 Full Circle Program 721-0643 Formed in f984, The Greater Cincinnati Coalition for the Homeless is a membership organization. Our member groups serve the homeless through emergency shelter, transitional living facilities, permanent housing, medical services, social services, soup kitchens, and mental health/addiction services. The Coalition also consists of individual citizens who want to take an active role in ensuring that Cincinnati is an inclusive community, meeting the needs of all of its citizens. Join the fight to end homelessness; contact the Greater Cincinnati Coalition for the Homeless at (518) 421-7808, 117 East 12th Street Cincinnati, Ohio 45202 ~ Greater ,Cincinnati Coalition For The Homeless a 721-4580 632-7149 241-0504 369-0004 381-1171 721-8666 961-4555 TREATMENT: Men Charlie's 3/4 House 784-1853 Prospect House 921-1613 Starting Over 961-2256 TREATMENT: Both NA. Hope line 820-294 7 AA Hotline 351-0422 C.CAT. 381-6672 Tai bert House 684-7956 Transitions, Inc 859-491-4435 VA Domiciliary 859-559-5011 DIC Live-In Program 721-0643 OTHER SERVICES: AIDS Volunteers of Cincinnati 421-2437 Appalachian Identity Center 621-5991 Beech Acres 231-6630 Center for Independent Living Options 241-2600 Churches Active in Northside 591-2246 Cincinnati Health Network 961-0600 Co mm unity Action Agency 569-1840 Contact Center 381-4242 Emanuel Center 241-2563 Freestore/ Foodbank 241-1064 Fransiscan Haircuts 651-6468 Goodwill Industries 771-4800 Coalition for the Homeless. 421-7803 Hamilton Co. Mental Health Board 946-8600 Mental Health Access Point 558-8888 Hamilton Co. TB Control 632-7186 Health Rsrc. Center 357-4602 Homeless Mobile Health Van 352-2902 House of Refuge Mission 221-5491 Legal Aid Society 241-9400 Madisonville Ed. & Assis. Center 271-5501 Mary Magdalen House 721-4811 rvlcMi cken Dental Clinic 352-6863 Our Daily Bread 621-6864 Peaslee Neighborhood Center 621-5514 Project Connect Homeless. Kids 357-5720 St. Vincent De Paul 562-8841 The Emergency Food Center 471-4857 Travelers Aid 721-7660 United Way 721-7900 VA Homeless 859-572-6226 Women Helping Women 872-9259 MIDDLETOWN/HAMILTON (Butler County) St. Raphaels (Food Bank/Soup Kitchen) 863-3184 Salvation Army 863-1445 Serenity House Day Center 422-8555 Open Door Pantry 868-3276 New Life Baptist Mission (Soup Kitchen) 896-9800 Hope House (Homeless. Families/Singles) 423-4673 treetvi BUY FROM BADGED VENDORS ONLY I Who Would Jesus t Bomb? Greater Cincinnati Coalition for the Homeless � Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource 2004 Text A resource consisting primarily of words for reading. Examples include books, letters, dissertations, poems, newspapers, articles, archives of mailing lists. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre Text. Original Format The type of object, such as painting, sculpture, paper, photo, and additional data Newspaper Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource April 2004 Subject The topic of the resource Homelessness Description An account of the resource Pg 1: Protesting the Iraq War- Around the Globe, Millions Gather on One-Year Anniversary Pg 2: Reader Mail Pg 3: Lesson on Vine Street Pg 4: April 2001 Did Cincinnati’s Civil Unrest Change City Politics? Pg 5: April 2001 Continued Pg 6: The Peace Village Pg 7: Proposed Federal Funding Will Devastate Voucher Program National Homeless Advocate Censored by Assistant Secretary of HUD Gray Dog Continued Pg 8: Homeless News Digest Pg 9: Keep the Faith and Never Give Up Pg 10: Out with the Old, In with the New… Pg 11: Mother’s Day Pg 12: Family Violence Option Campaign Builds Momentum Pg 13: Manifest Destiny Pg 14: Arts & Poetry Pg 15: Arts & Poetry Continued Pg 16: Editorial Pg 17: Buy Me Love Pg 18: Handling of Huntington Meadows a Crime A Broken Promise: The Limits of Wok in the News Economy Pg 19: FRAC Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Streetvibes Archive Project Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Streetvibes Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Greater Cincinnati Homeless Coalition Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource April 2004 Contributor An entity responsible for making contributions to the resource Georgine Getty Andy Erickson Brendan Goodwin Mary Gaffney Elizabeth Linville Janice Faulkner Jimmy Heath Berta Lambert Mark Burke Anthony Dent Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource PDF Andy Erickson Anthony Dent Arts & Poetry Berta Lambert Brendan Goodwin Cincinnati Editorials Elizabeth Linville Federal Funding Food Research FRAC Georgine Getty Huntington Meadows Iraq Janice Faulkner Jimmy Heath Mark Burke Mary Gaffney Peace Village Protesting Reader Mail Vine Street https://streetvibesarchive.net/files/original/28347d59a20ceea1a28d76170aaf41fe.pdf f6885a57d4518a11346c7bb3bf625b0a PDF Text Text April 2005 STREETVIBES Casualties of War - Impact of Iraq War is Felt in Cincinnati Day Of Protests Mark 2nd Anniversary Of Iraq War and failed to uncover weapons of mass destruction — a major reason for the March, 2003 invasion. “A nation whose natural resources and reconstruction all belong to U.S. corporations can Story and photos by Jimmy Heath never truly be sovereign,” said Treven It was a chance to get their La Botz, a 17-year-old Walnut Hills voices heard as an estimated 300 High School student and a speaker at people gathered on downtown the rally. “This war hasn’t come home Cincinnati’s Fountain Square on to many people and so they don’t see Saturday, March 19, the second the great tragedy that it is.” anniversary of the Iraq conflict. Cincinnati Councilman David The rally was organized to be Crowley, speaking from the podium, one of hundreds taking place around said that the war has a high cost for the world for a “Global Day of citizens in Cincinnati, adding that he Action” against the war in Iraq. supports the troops, but not the Holding signs, braving rain policy that has them fighting in Iraq. and thunder and a cold wind, the The war affects the city’s poor, who group listened to a series of speakers are looking at a reduction in federal who urged the U.S. to pull out of Iraq aid the city usually gets. Crowley and denounced the war effort as concluded that the war is causing illegal, immoral and contrary to steep reductions in Medicaid, funding world-wide public opinion. for first responders, and money that In his weekly radio address, could be used for services for lowPresident Bush defended the war, income people. saying it took place “to disarm a Over $185 million dollars of brutal regime, free its people, and the $207 billion dollars spent so far defend the world.” on the war in Iraq could be targeted “Now, because we acted, to serve the city of Cincinnati, Iraq’s government is no longer a according to the Washington, DC threat to the world or its own based group, National Priorities people,” Bush said, during the weekly Project. (http:// radio address. www.nationalpriorities.org) But across the globe, “That’s the price we all are demonstrators congregated to protest paying to conduct this savage war,” the U.S.-led actions, which they said Crowley, a Navy veteran. assert has caused needless bloodshed Cincinnati City Councilmember David Crowley speaks at rally Walnut Hills High School student Treven LaBotz addresses protestors on Fountain Square Protests marking the second anniversary of the “shock and awe” bombing of Baghdad were held in cities worldwide; Tokyo, Istanbul, Athens, Stockholm and cities throughout the United States. More than 750 rallies were held across the globe. An estimated 45,000 people marched past the U.S. embassy in London. Two former British soldiers placed a cardboard coffin bearing the words “100,000 dead” outside the embassy. “George Bush, Uncle Sam, Iraq will be your Vietnam,” marchers chanted. About 350 people listened to speeches near the United Nations in New York before marching down 42nd Street. On the eve of the Day of Protest in Vermont, 48 town meetings voted to condemn the war in Iraq and to call on political leaders to bring home the state’s National Guard. Vermont has lost more soldiers per capita than any state, and has the second highest mobilization rate for its National Guard and reservists. (Ohio ranks 7th in the rate of fatalities by state.) More than 4,500 people marched in Tokyo during a visit by US Secretary of State Condoleeza Rice. In Sweden, about 300 protesters filled up Sergel square in downtown Stockholm, chanting: “USA, out of Iraq!” Media outlets also took stock of the war’s death toll. But the national newscasts undercounted the most dramatic loss of life: the deaths of Iraqi civilians. On the March 18, CBS Evening News, reporter Byron Pitts gave these figures: “Today, U.S. deaths number more than 1,500. There are no exact figures for Iraqi fatalities, but estimates are for every American killed, 11 Iraqis died.” In other words, more than 16,500 Iraqi deaths. NBC’s Brian Williams offered a slightly higher estimate: “So far, 1,513 American military personnel have been killed, 11,344 injured, and many of those are War cont. on page 8 Greater Cincinnati Coalition for the Homeless �Streetvibes Streetvibes, the Tri­ State’s alternative news source, is a newspaper written by, for, and about the homeless and contains relevant discussions of social justice, and poverty issues. It is published once a month by the Greater Cincinnati Coalition for the Homeless. Becoming a Streetvibes Vendor is a great way for homeless and other low-income people to get back on (or stay on) their feet. Streetvibes Vendors are given an orientation and sign a code of conduct before being given a Streetvibes Vendor badge. Vendors are private contractors who DO NOT work for, or represent, the Greater Cincinnati Coalition for the Homleess. All profits go directly to the vendor. The Greater Cincinnati Coalition for the Homeless is a group of shelters, agencies and individuals committed to ending homelessness in Cincinnati through coordinating services, educating the public and grassroots organizing. GCCH Staff Georgine Getty - Executive Director Allison Leeuw -Administrative Coordinator Andy Erickson - Education Coordinator Rachel Lawson - Civil Rights VISTA Kate McManus - Civil Rights VISTA Mary Gaffney - Receptionist Streetvibes Jimmy Heath, Editor Photographers Jimmy Heath, Ben Boswell Cover 2nd anniversary of Iraq war ­ protesting on Fountain Square, downtown Cincinnati Jimmy Heath photo Streetvibes accepts letters, poems, stories, essays, original graphics, and photos. We will give preference to those who are homeless or vendors. Subscriptions to Streetvibes, delivered to your home each month, can be purchased for $25 per year. Address mail to: Streetvibes Greater Cincinnati Coalition for the Homeless (GCCH) 117 East 12th Street Cincinnati, OH 45202 (513) 421-7803 e-mail: streetvibes@juno.com web: http://cincihomeless.org Page 2 Streetvibes Letters Dear Editor, I was shocked and confused why anyone supporting recovery of women at the Nannie Hinkston House would put that house at risk of being ripped down for a wealthy corporation and the likes of Erich Kunzel and company. These major moves have been made by people who call themselves leaders of the poor. I challenge if any poor or homeless people voted on these issues. Please think twice before collaborating with the rich! S. Williams Dear Jimmy Heath, I have been buying your paper from Randy (sic) for years at Bellermine Chapel and I have agreed on many things you have written about…this one I did not! The Taser gun is great – we have far fewer shots on citizens than ever before and that is good. The number of fatalities is small and the use of it here in town is great. It was not designed to be used against kids. It is for bad guys, and we have a lot of them. Just last week, there were four people here in town shot with a Taser…no harm was done, but they were people going after a cop with a lethal weapon and they were stopped…No harm done and no cop killed. Report with a sense of responsibility and the facts not slanted. Kinny McQuade Send your letters or comments to Streetvibes, 117 East 12th Street, Cincinnati Ohio 45202, or email to Streetvibes@juno.com Writers! Submit your Poetry to STREETVIBES ­ email your writing to Streetvibes@juno.com Our View: A Victory for the Homeless by Scott Samuel J. Call it a fitting conclusion, or maybe even karmic justice. Three years after releasing the video “Bumfights: Cause for Concern” and two years after pleading guilty to misdemeanor charges and receiving a sentence of community service, “Bumfights” producers Ryan McPherson and Zachary Bubeck are finally heading to jail to serve a six-month sentence. Regular readers of this paper may remember that we spearheaded a campaign in 2003 to urge Newbury Comics to stop selling “Bumfights” and “Bumhunter” videos in their local stores. The videos were made by coercing homeless individuals – including two Vietnam veterans – to perform violent acts, such as pulling out one’s own teeth or breaking another’s leg, in exchange for food or small amounts of cash. While the producers claimed that the participants all consented to the actions on the videos, this claim essentially equated consent with exploitation. If someone is desperate – with no place to stay; possibly traumatized, addicted or ill; or needing a few bucks, a meal or exploited poor men and women. But this time someone – perhaps it was Deputy District Attorney Curtis Ross or Superior Court Judge Charles Ervin – kept an eye on this case. Last month, McPherson and Bubeck asked the court to release them from their probation because they claimed they had completed the Rufus takes one for the camera community service. Ervin denied the request after shelter officials said they friendship – is this ever a fair trade? had no record of the two men Luckily, prosecutors saw completing the required work. While through the producers’ defense and the pair blamed the shelter for poor filed seven felony charges against record keeping, the judge sentenced them in 2002. The next year, them to six months in jail and put McPherson, Bubeck and two other them on probation for an additional producers of the videos – Michael Slyman and Daniel Tanner – struck a two and a half years. For the next two years, the deal and pled guilty to a lesser charge of conspiracy to incite violence. They idea of becoming beaten or humiliated for the pleasure of others were sentenced to 280 hours of may become a more personal issue community service at a homeless for McPherson and Bubeck. We shelter. All four were young men in hope this time behind bars will teach search of profits. Estimates are that them that hurting and exploiting the video has sold more than vulnerable people is no laughing 300,000 copies over the Internet, matter. And perhaps other steelygarnering the producers millions of eyed opportunists out there will think dollars. That plea bargain might have twice before seeking to use a homeless person for profit. been the end of that story – a bit of community service and a whole heap of profits for young men who The Zen of Streetvibes by Jimmy Gipson, Vendor I would love to express the need of homelessness in the Greater Cincinnati area. This is a heart warming and heart breaking thing that is happening. First of all, 30% of the homeless are children. There is uncommon suffering and pain. They are abused emotionally, physically and repeatedly. Then you have women who are addicted to drugs and alcohol. They are easily influenced because of their gender and abuse is common. Then you have the men whose lives are hopeless and to them, seemingly useless. The mental state of these people is that they will stay homeless and will spend their lives no other way. Their needs are great – greater than you can imagine. The love they need is, and should be, unconditional. Love that Jesus expresses in the writings of the bible. He will acknowledge these blessings that you give from the heart. The need is there. Streetvibes is a publication for spreading the word of giving and kindness. Vendors share monthly that the hopeless can become hopeful. Each day, Streetvibes vendors go out and sell the paper and spread the word. They need your support and patronage to become successful. Give, and be blessed for a cause well deserved. You can make a difference. Streetvibes exists as a forum for the expression of the views and opinions of our readers and supporters. The opinions expressed herein are not necessarily those of the Streetvibes staff or the Greater Cincinnati Coalition for the Homeless Streetvibes �Homeless News Digest Compiled by Jimmy Heath On the ninth floor of Miami-Dade County’s main jail, a tall, naked man with matted hair paces back and forth in his cell, bowing his head and muttering to himself. “It’s just sad,” says Judge Steven Leifman, through whose court this man has passed many times. “We’re incarcerating people in cells, and they’re sick. We still treat people with mental illnesses like criminals, as opposed to treating their illness.” Miami-Dade has the highest percentage of people with mental illness of any urban area in the United States — 9.1 percent. On any given day, 30 percent of the county’s jail population is mentally ill — and up to 30 percent of those inmates, like the schizophrenic man on the ninth floor, are homeless. Sad as it might be, the courts have become one of the key vehicles to getting people off the streets. About 45 percent of the county’s homeless suffer from some sort of chronic mental illness, substance abuse problem, or both. Leifman says that about 30 percent of the people that his courts divert to the mental health system were homeless when they were arrested. Started in 1989, this is the first and oldest drug court in the country. This day, 11 of the “clients” on the docket are being considered for the county’s HART program — Homeless Assessment, Referral and Tracking. Nonviolent offenders who are willing to fight their addiction get access to education programs, free transportation, job training and even housing loans. The re-arrest rate for successful drug court participants is 4.2 percent — five to six times lower than for defendants who refuse to participate or drop out. Home is not a safe haven for hundreds of thousands of Americans. It’s a street corner, an empty park bench or a mattress in a shelter. There are an estimated 500,000 to 700,000 homeless people in America. Some have mental illness and substance abuse problems, but others have simply been beaten down by life. A Cincinnati man said he’s lived in a “homeless camp” since his 1996 divorce. The man, who identified himself only as Jeff, said his ex-wife “took everything.” Harleigh Marsh is a former Navyman who could strip and rebuild cockpits. Now, he lives in a homeless shelter in West Virginia. He said his nursing home job doesn’t pay enough to cover child support and an apartment. In Chicago, the Rivera family has been without a home since the apartment building they lived in burned down in 1998. Eileen Rivera said when she’s sad, her four kids make her “feel like there is hope.” What do homeless people cost American society? Here are some figures from a nine-city survey done for the Corporation for Supportive Housing: In Atlanta, a bed in a shelter costs $11 a night. In Columbus, it’s $25. In New York, $54. A bed in a facility that helps people get treatment and social services doesn’t cost much more. A night in jail is much more expensive, and a night in a hospital can cost more than $1,000. Researchers at the University of Pennsylvania found that a mentally ill homeless person can use about $40,000 in services in a year. These researchers concluded that society has two choices if it wants to help the homeless: continue to spend money on existing programs, or spend nearly the same amount to provide permanent housing. A poll taken for The Associated Press suggests the great majority of Americans think homelessness is a serious problem. Eighty-nine percent of about 1,000 adults surveyed said homelessness is a “very” or “somewhat serious” problem. Only 11 percent believe it’s “not too” or “not at all serious.” Just over half of those polled said people who are homeless for long periods of time are “victims of circumstances beyond their control.” Thirty-eight percent said those who are homeless are “responsible for their own situation,” while six percent said they were “not sure.” The poll was conducted last month for AP by Ipsos-Public affairs. Its margin of error was plus or minus three percentage points. Forty-year old Paul Hernandez spends his days overturning New York City trash cans for a living. In some ways, it’s just what he used to do when he was homeless. But since he entered a program called Ready, Willing and Able, there’s a world of difference. Some 2,000 men have come through the program. In Hernandez’ case, he gets a dormitory bed in a Harlem shelter, three meals a day and $7 an hour to empty trash cans. And though he’s working, Hernandez has strong memories of being down and out. The isolation was the worst, he said. Begging on the street, he said, you might get money. But the donor’s attitude is, “please don’t touch me. Touch the dollar.” San Francisco’s Mary Elizabeth Inn represents changing views on attacking the problem of homelessness. The inn’s approach is called “supportive housing.” More than emergency shelter, it’s intended to help its 25 resident women with the problems that have made them homeless in the first place: They get medical attention. Learn job skills. Go through drug rehab. Get help with child care. A charity has pledged $37 million toward creating 150,000 supportive housing units nationwide. That’s double what exists now. . Some South Korean homeless are dressing in style after the government gave away thousands of fake designer garments confiscated by customs agents. The Korea Customs Service distributed more than 3,500 fake pieces in the southern city of Pusan this month with the permission of the fashion houses whose designs had been pirated. A customs official declined to name the designers whose ripped-off creations are now being worn by the homeless but said both they and the state prosecutors had approved giving away the jackets, blouses, shirts and pants. “We hope this will be of some help to the poor who need practical assistance in such hard times,” the official said. Customs agents removed the labels from the clothes before giving them to a welfare agency for distribution. South Korea has a vibrant illegal market in pirated designer clothing and customs officials said there would be more handouts. Each year Staten Island comes a little closer to understanding the city’s singularly elusive homeless population. On a frigid February night last winter, it conducted the first-ever homeless count here, deploying hundreds of volunteers into the borough’s endless shadowy nooks. That night, homeless advocates were surprised to learn that an estimated 216 people sleep in the Island’s parks, abandoned cars, remote woods and marshlands, more than twice the number they Streetvibes suspected. Added to that are the roughly 120 people who bed down in Project Hospitality’s drop-in center, Island churches and the lobby of Borough Hall. To increase public confidence in the survey’s accuracy, about 150 college students, some dressed as homeless people, will act as decoys to test volunteers’ thoroughness. In Rapid City, S.D. figures from a new statewide survey of homeless people probably aren’t realistic, according to Jim Castleberry, assistant director of the Cornerstone Rescue Mission. Castleberry said he thinks South Dakota has twice as many homeless people as the 1,029 that the South Dakota Housing For the Homeless Consortium counted on Jan. 25. One-fourth were children. When survey workers went to various locations, many homeless did not want to talk with them for purposes of the survey, he said. “One of the problems we had this year is the Housing and Urban Development folks wanted us to do a survey,” said Castleberry, a member of the consortium. “So we sent teams to various locations, and we had folks that didn’t want to participate in the survey. So they didn’t get included, at least in entirety, in that count.” Numbers of homeless people would be more accurate if the counts were done more than once a year, Castleberry said. Also, survey workers would have more access to people in the summer, when it’s warm, he added. The Jan. 25 tally showed 143 homeless adults living in hotels, 240 living temporarily in shelters and 328 living in transitional housing. On a recent night in Tallahassee, FL Karu Bytth and her mother Annette Farina didn’t think they could endure another night of being homeless. The only place they could call home was a 1982 white van that served as semi-reliable transportation and a refuge from frigid nights and safety from street crime. But Bytth, 62, received word Friday afternoon she wouldn’t have to worry about which parking lot she would call home for the night. She and her mother would be two of 60 residents to move into a new familydorm facility erected by the Tallahassee Coalition for the Homeless and HOPE Community. Each room was decorated by a group, church or volunteers topped with gold-plated individual themes and names. Some of the rooms include a “Garden of Hope,” “Tranquility,” “Pink Panther” and “Omega.” The ribbon-cutting ceremony attracted more than 150 supporters, sprinkled with city and county officials and volunteers. Page 3 �“One of the main reasons that it is so easy to march men off to war,” says Ernest Becker, is that “each of them feels sorry for the man next to him who will die.” Annie Dillard There’s a graveyard in northern France where all the dead boys from D-Day are buried. The white crosses reach from one horizon to the other. I remember looking it over and thinking it was a forest of graves. But the rows were like this, dizzying, diagonal, perfectly straight, so after all it wasn’t a forest but an orchard of graves. Nothing to do with nature, unless you count human nature. Barbara Kingsolver There never was a good war or a bad peace. Benjamin Franklin Religion and science both profess peace (and the sincerity of the professors is not being doubted), but each always turns out to have a dominant part in any war that is going or contemplated. Howard Nemerov It is essential to know that to be a happy person, a happy family, a happy society, it is very crucial to have a good heart, that is very crucial. World peace must develop from inner peace. Peace is not just the absence of violence but the manifestation of human compassion Dalai Lama Peace is not a relationship of nations. It is a condition of mind brought about by a serenity of soul. Peace is not merely the absence of war. It is also a state of mind. Lasting peace can come only to peaceful people. Jawaharlal Nehru All Terri, All the Time Show your support! Get your STREETVIBES T-Shirt Today! (Back shown here. Shirt not actual size) Only $15 We will send your Streetvibes T-shirt to your door ­ All proceeds benefit the Greater Cincinnati Coalition for the Homeless and the Streetvibes newspaper. Call 513.421.7803 x 16, or come in to our office at 117 E 12th Street in Over-the-Rhine Page 4 Streetvibes Quickly searching the “Major Papers” selection in Lexis-Nexis the term “Schiavo” in the headline or lead term produced 549 hits. Searching “Iraq” and “War” produced 597 hits. That the two issues are even close in the amount of hits is mystifying, despite the fact that the Iraq War is seemingly “old news” to many editors. Last month saw the 2nd anniversary of our invasion, largescale protest, and the announced withdrawal of troops by Italy - who have the third-largest contingent of troops in “coalition of the willing” behind Britain and South Korea, according to GlobalSecurity.org. Let’s run down some major television and radio outlets: ABC: Iraq War, 4; Schiavo, 40 CBS: Iraq War, 10; Schiavo, 36 NBC: Iraq War, 12; Schiavo, 45 CNN: Iraq War, 33; Schiavo, 121 Fox News: Iraq War, 10; Schiavo, 56 NPR: Iraq War, 19; Schiavo, 42 Basically taking at face value all of the institutional flaws that the press possesses - I can entertain the notion that the stories be covered roughly the same amount. But for the major American broadcasters to decide that a Florida woman in a permanent vegetative state, whose cerebral cortex is filled with spinal fluid, is about four times as important as the 1500 or so American troops and 100,000 or so Iraqis dead for no good reason is a grave abuse of power and responsibility. On a side note, what if Terri were black? Poor or homeless? A recovering heroin addict? Would the Bush family and it’s “culture of life” be rushing to save her? �in the same way. There are good of lies for you about how or when he intentions with some people though can have more for you etc. Few of circumstances and situations can lead those who hang in the alley are honest by Riccardo M. Taylor hustlers. It is so often that I find room a person astray. The difference is With this in mind lets take a for change, or have the opportunity to what one puts into it. As that may be I want to introduce you to the way I tour down the alley. The first thing change the way things are, or at least see things. we have to do is to get a spot. In the make the changes which I need to In this first writing in a series alley there is always trash, so we enhance my life, yet when my vision is of essays that I would like to share I have to pick up an area that we will set in the direction of this want to take you with me to hang in stand in. This is our spot. We enhancement I always seem to get the alley. This is an area where all are already know whose back here and distracted. I am very much invited, yet only some whose coming, perplexed as to how I continue to belong. It’s a place smoking dope, repeat the same mistakes over and drinking beer, or over again, it’s like I just don’t get it! where ritual, sadness, and apathy rule. It’s a urinating. Huddled I go through this scenario hustlers ground. up to one side, time after time, I look to the right I Everybody has some reaching and look to the left, I search high and I kind of scheme they grabbing, passing search low for the answers to my things. Someone’s dilemma without ever seeming to find are working, so anything goes. always talking; the direction. It’s as if I am on a Hustlers come in two “watch for the boys,” treadmill, moving forward without Riccardo Taylor distinct categories the watch yourself! getting anywhere. It’s almost Anything honest ones and the impossible to relate the feelings of goes, back here, everyone is on their dishonest ones. discouragement and I am often left own. From time to time robbery and The honest hustler is of the wondering if, how, or does it effect best. I see a guy working for potato violence is a part of the tour, yet even others the way it does me? I am the mark is a part of the game, so this chips and cans of pop. He resells talking about those who live, the quarter chips from his pay and makes can be expected. Back here where same way as I do, those who are in a few dollars! Working for quarters, only hustlers and slick broads hang the life of the street person. you have to have a mouthpiece. The Even though most of the way imagine that! That is an example of an honest hustler - still, sometimes the faster you can tell a lie the more you we live seems to me to be out of order, I realize that there are so many distinction between the two is hard to can get; that’s of whatever you’re things missing in the lives of the street figure. An easy way of putting it, here your back here for. Here’s a typical scene. Two is a guy who sells you something and person that chaos rules and the idea then before you can take your guys hustling all day with a cart, of the norm differs from what others merchandise away he’s trying to steal collecting metal, they make a dollar, see. Yet, I cannot believe that all its off to the alley, buy a small hit and street people are or can be classified it back from you, or he has a bunch Street Life it all happens. Someone followed, or was back here. They get right in the mix. Hand out for a share of the product. Constantly telling you they have a ‘lick’ up i.e. a score. Making promises without sustenance. You can always be sure that a crowd will gather. Coming out of buildings, yards, and wherever else. You always get stuck for a minute, but you can be sure that when you leave you will be broke! Then there’s the pair who are on the slick s@#*. Got one dollar between them, trying to sell you a pipe that they want back when you are done. Trying to drink up all the beer; they will get on your nerves, constantly telling you this or that or asking about your pocket. They’ll follow you until you’re broke. Too often they cannot be trusted, they will walk out of the alley with your bag if you are not paying attention. For the honest hustler the alley scene is pathetic, yet alluring. Well I’m out of the alley, back up front. Take a look up and down the street choose a direction and down the block we go. The alley has always attracted me though I know I don’t belong. So, I know that I will visit again. If you would like to go then catch the next issue of Streetvibes and we will visit there again. So until next time, be safe. St. X students help low-income families become homeowners by Grady Cook and David Hastings St. Xavier High School students volunteer once a month at the Community Land Cooperative of Cincinnati, a non-profit affordable housing provider that helps low-income families become homeowners, primarily in the West End. Students have been cleaning out and painting vacant houses, doing yard work, and performing other rehabilitation activities since the school year began. They are part of a long tradition of community service that St. Xavier students have been involved in for years with organizations like the Community Land Cooperative. Grady Cook, one of the Coalition for the Homeless’ current Streetvibes vendors, has been working with the Community Land Cooperative for 15 years. He was recently asked to supervise a group of St. Xavier students during the rehabilitation of a house on McMicken Avenue. “I was so happy to work with this group of young people from St. Xavier,” said Cook. “I think that they are a big asset to the community. I’m looking forward to continuing to work with them and possibly other high school students in the area.” Matt Kemper is the Community Service Director at St. Xavier High School. Matt indicates that the Housing Rehab program “provides students with an opportunity to leave their comfort zone and serve those in need. Ideally, these types of experiences are the hallmark of transformative Jesuit education that seeks to create students who will become ‘agents of change.’ Ideally, these young men draw on their high school service experience to create systemic change for our world.” Bob, a St. Xavier senior who has been a regular volunteer with the Community Land Cooperative/St. Xavier Housing Rehab program says, “The world is a classroom, and I feel that I have learned the most through volunteering for the Community Land Cooperative. I feel that by participating in this program I have grown closer to becoming the person I am supposed to become.” The staff at the Community Students at work Land Co-op say they enjoy working with the Xavier Students. “I couldn’t be happier with the work that they’ve done,” says David Hastings, Executive Director. “They play a vital role in keeping our housing affordable for co-op families.” To find out more how you can become a homeowner through the Community Land Co-op or to volunteer, call 721-2522. Grady doing some painting Streetvibes Page 5 �Remembering a Friend Nourishment for the Soul To the readers and friends of and bereavement. She has been there when my family was going Streetvibes, I missed my article last month – sorry about that. through hard times. She has always I am dedicating this month’s served in a quiet way, involved with article to a very gracious lady whom I the church, and friends and especially have known since she was 9 years children. She can no longer participate old. She and her family had just in all of these duties that she did for so many years. I want to thank you, joined Saint John A. M.E. Church. Gussie Bell Jefferson, and God be the Her name is Gussie Bell Jefferson, also known as Mother Jefferson. glory, for all you have done for your She was honored in February by fellow man, and you will always be radio station WAIF remembered for with a benefit program. your care and love, This lady, down not only at St. John’s through the years, has but in Cincinnati too. been a friend and a I say many mother to many a thanks also to person – children and Reverend Perkins the elderly. She has for your love and worked for the concern for my dear Christian Education friend, Gussie Bell Miss Mary Gaffney Department serving the Jefferson. sick and shut-in’s. She May God has tended to all the needs of these bless each and everyone one of you at radio station WAIF. people, making sure they get to the To our readers and my doctor, etc. Her concern for her fellow man is one of her joys. homeless friends, as I have always She has been with WAIF for said, remember that whatever many years going back to the days of hardships come into your life, God loves you regardless of who you are. the Alms Hotel, working with Reverend Stewart to the present with Until next month - Peace. Reverend Columbus Perkins. Sadly, shortly after I She has been a dear friend to finished this story for Streetvibes, me and my family and has always Gussie Bell Jefferson passed been right by my side during illness away. She was 65 years old. The most fascinating story for by Rachel Lawson me was the tale of an older sibling I recently sat down to a who every Thanksgiving created a delicious meal that consisted of humus and crackers, Mississippi style feast for not only their immediate family but friends of the family as fried chicken with hot sauce, mixed well. The story was an exact bean soup, green salad, German mirrored image of my mother’s goeta, and mint jelly. family; my aunt and uncles plan a Of course that might sound huge meal every Sunday and major like a combination of dishes that holiday that allows us to come doesn’t go all that well with one together in unity and celebration. another, but in reality, that could not “Women Change America” be further from the truth. allowed me the cherished opportunity On March 10, to reflect back on my Peaslee Neighborhood own family and the Center held an event important women in my entitled “Women life who have been Change America,” beacons of light. The which celebrated the evening ended with two significance and the role inspirational written of women in our word pieces, both individual lives. Rachel Lawson encouraging the belief Each individual and understanding that through it all was encouraged to bring a dish that dignity, hope, strength, and had some significance and to later share why that dish was important to perseverance have been key factors him or her. Not only were the meals in the life and role of women. Most importantly, although women have distinctive, so were each of the come this far, we have so much individuals who provided them. further to go. While I was dining and learning about the invigorating women who created these unique dishes, I 20 YEARS was able to learn more about SERVING THE individuals in an hour than I have gathered in 5 months. NEIGHBORHOOD We were given the opportunity to not only gain nourishment for our stomachs, but also for our minds and souls. After the meal ended, we were invited to share a story or two, whether it was about the person who made your dish, or simply an individual who had an influence or empowered you in some way. Some of the stories were about a grandmother whose cooking style was as untouchable as her loving memory or a mother who enforced Empowering our not only cooking skills but also cultural understandings. neighborhood children The stories shared were more through peace, art and than just spoken words; they were education the entrance to the soul. We discussed the role of women from a Peaslee Neighborhood variety of cultural aspects, from the Center “olden” days of passing along 215 East 14th Street traditional understandings of the Over-the-Rhine “women’s role” to the current Cincinnati, Ohio 45202 position of being the provider, mother and father in the household. (513) 621-5514 Food Stamp Participation Increases to More Than 25.4 Million Persons Participation in the Food Stamp Program in December 2004 (the latest data available) was 25,487,768 persons, an increase of 2,207,685 persons from December 2003. The Food Stamp Program growth in recent months reflects continuing joblessness, state actions to improve access, and the effects of the food stamp reauthorization implementation. The number of people participating in the Food Stamp Program in December 2004 was 8.6 million more persons than July 2000, when program participation nationally reached its lowest point in the last decade. Caseloads dropped through 1998 and 1999 as the economy improved and many states failed to get food stamps to low-income families who had left cash welfare for low-paid work. Caseloads then stabilized and began rising in 2000. Increases in participation since 2001 likely have been driven by improved access to the program in states, including most recently for legal immigrants, and by the weakened economy. Participation has risen in 44 of the last 48 months. Participation in December 2004 rose in the District of Columbia and in 47 of the 50 states compared to a year earlier. Nonetheless, research suggests that nearly half of all eligible people are not receiving food stamp benefits. Looking for a Second Chance Lynda Russo I have made mistakes in my life, but I’m still trying to fight for my kids. I haven’t given up. I want you to understand my side of the story. When I was about four years old, my mother was never home. I had to take care of my little sister and myself because my mother was drinking and drugging. My oldest sister was always out. I never had any fun, and I never got to go out with my friends. I did all the things Page 6 that a mother was supposed to do, but I was just a kid. My oldest son was born in 1987, when I was 19 years old. I was pregnant when I graduated from Wakefield High. My second oldest, a daughter, was born a year later. I was raising them alone while working and going to school. I was on welfare, living off of $560 per month and food stamps. My rent was $500 per month. I spent the $60 cash on diapers. In 1991, I met “Horace,” and he moved in three months after we started dating. We were happy at first, getting along well. In 1994, we got married, and, over the next five years, we had ended up with six kids – two girls and four boys. All of my boys have Coffin-Lowry Syndrome, which is similar to Down’s Syndrome, a form of mental retardation. My son Tyler also has Stridor Syndrome, which can affect his speech. I loved raising my kids. I Streetvibes loved being a mom and had always wanted a big family. At the very beginning, Horace wasn’t working, so he helped take care of the kids while I worked at McDonalds and took classes at Charlestown Community Center. Soon, however, things began to change. One day in 1992, I was at school. Horace was supposed to get Mike (my oldest) onto the bus for the Second Chance cont. on page 9 �for those who died this year A Marathon Run candle due to homelessness and giving by Jac-Lynn Stark February 14 was a raw and chilly winter night with occasional snow flurries and periods of intermittent rain. Outside Columbus House, a homeless shelter in New Haven, Connecticut, Jeremy Weir Alderson sat in a plastic tent he called the Tabernacle of Truth. This was the temporary studio for the eighth annual Homelessness Marathon, which was broadcast from 7:00 p.m. to 9:00 a.m. on over 80 radio stations nationwide, as well as the Internet. In Boston, the entire broadcast was aired on WMBR 89.1. Alderson founded the Homelessness Marathon in 1988 as an offshoot of his weekly program “The Nobody Show” on WEOS, a public radio affiliate in Geneva, New York. From the beginning, the marathon broadcasted outdoors to dramatize the plight of homeless people. The number of listeners has grown each year. The webcam at the marathon’s website, for example, received over 350,000 hits during this year’s broadcast, seven times more than last year. Alderson began the broadcast by lighting a memorial listeners two call-in numbers. “This program is dedicated to getting homeless people into houses,” he said. The Homelessness Marathon includes short, pre-recorded segments on topics related to homelessness and poverty, longer discussions and interviews with experts, as well as questions, comments and stories from people who called or walked up to the broadcast location. During the broadcast, people of all ages and backgrounds told how they had become homeless. Some read poetry. People talked about living in abandoned buildings and “tent cities.” Again and again, people discussed how much they hated being looked down on or blamed because they were homeless. Maggie, whose father kicked her out at 12 when she came out as a lesbian, said, “When I was first homeless, I didn’t understand what homelessness was. Out on the street, people looked at me and crossed the street. Even a smile can make someone’s day when you have no place to go.” Katherine, a caller from Ohio, emphasized that when people say the homeless have chosen their situation, they need to think about why they made those choices. “Wondering if you’re going to be hungry is better than worrying who’s gonna climb into bed with you when you’re 12,” Katherine said. The Homelessness Marathon was a wide-angle lens that panned the broad landscape of America and focused on aspects of life that are ignored by the mainstream media. It painted a picture of an America where affordable housing is scarce to non-existent, where people who work hard are unable to afford to keep a roof over their heads, and where struggles over adversity are common. Many panelists and callers talked about the shortage of affordable housing. “I can’t afford to pay rent, but I work full time,” said Philip, a caller from a tent city in New Haven who makes $7.10 an hour. “Living in a tent gives me freedom, but I don’t want to live in a tent the rest of my life.” “The most important thing the marathon demonstrates is that the homeless are ordinary people,” said Alderson in an interview. “Politicians often portray the homeless as a bunch of crazies and drunks, but that is not true. All kinds of different people can become homeless.” The broadcast showed the wide variety of people affected by homelessness. Throughout the night, callers from all over the country made it clear that homelessness cuts through a wide swath of our population and occurs for many reasons. “There is nothing more important than low-income and poor people finding their voice,” Boston Emergency Shelter Commission acting director Jim Greene said of the program. “The marathon is an annual exercise in providing people the opportunity to speak out from their experience so decision makers in society understand their points of view and make decisions accordingly.” Alderson plans to continue the Homelessness Marathon even though it is increasingly difficult to raise funds for the show. He compared the marathon to trying to bail out a boat that is sinking. “As long as there is some hope, you keep trying,” said Alderson. The Homelessness Marathon’s website is at http:// www.homelessnessmarathon.org. Reprinted from Spare Change News, Boston, MA, March 2005 Rural Homelessness Hits Washington State by Israel Bayer Last month volunteers counted more than 1,050 individuals experiencing homelessness in Clallam County, Washington. 322 were living on the West End of the peninsula. Nearly one in four counted where children. “Homelessness is a problem in our community,” said Jackie Windle, a case manager with West End Outreach Services, an organization offering mental health, chemical dependency, and employment services. The organization also has 3 shelter locations in Forks. More than 20 people are currently on the waiting list. “I’m not sure everyone understands what a big problem it is.” Homelessness in Wasington State rural areas has seen a dramatic increase over the past decade with the loss of employment, the outsourcing of jobs, the cost of housing, and the lack of a living wage. “It’s not like the big city,” said Ruth King with West End Outreach Services. “People go into the woods and camp.” 188 individuals in the Forks area and 77 in La Push were identified as being homeless - families and veterans were the most at risk population. The state of Washington considers anyone who is living in substandard housing, shelters, or sleeping outside to be homeless. Substandard housing would include not having cooking facilities, a working bathroom, running water or heat. Domestic violence, drug addiction and mental illness have also been attributed to the surge in homelessness throughout the county. King said many people are falling through the cracks that have bad credit, a felony or are unemployed. “There are no jobs in the community right now. It’s hard out there for many people, especially families. We are seeing single mothers with young children who have no place left to go.” King went on to say that many of the individuals are from out of town. “We had one woman with a child from Arkansas who had looked up Forks on the Internet. She was in a bad situation, so she came to town hoping to find work because she thought the cost of living was lower here. The problem is there are no places to rent, no jobs and still people are coming to town looking for opportunities.” “We have a lot of people stealing from Peter to pay Paul,” said Sharon Ryan, the workforce specialist for the state in Forks. “Even people who are working can’t afford everything.” Hope is on the horizon in La Push though, according to Grafstrom, who said that the tribe is shifting its focus to economic development and building a stronger, healthier community to create more jobs. The number of people experiencing homelessness in Washington is unknown. In Seattle, more than 8,000 are experiencing homelessness. 3.5 million people are estimated to be on the streets nationwide, according to the National Coalition for the Homeless in Washington D.C. More than 500,000 of those individuals are U.S. veterans, many from the Vietnam era. “Some say Clallam County has the best services, and that’s why people are coming,” said Mike McEvoy, a veteran outreach worker in Portland Angeles. “But there are more services in other counties, so who knows.” “We are seeing a lot of people who are dealing with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder and mental illness,” said McEvoy. Post Traumatic Stress Disorder is a term used for psychotic stress caused by an event. Earthquakes, tsunamis, tornadoes, airplane crashes, and shock during battle are common events causing what is otherwise known as “shell-shock.” “It’s hard - we have vets living in cars, living in the forest, and people in shelters,” said McEvoy. “The forgotten vets are the Vietnam vets. We need to make sure none of our vets are forgotten, and treated with respect, even those who are homeless.” Streetvibes And while the community is struggling with the current surge in homelessness, there is another kind of homelessness effecting Forks as well - caused by domestic violence. “We see people who are stressed out by their life circumstance,” said Nancy Rohde, a legal advocate with Forks Abuse, an agency in town offering shelter, advocacy, and legal advice for people affected by domestic violence. “They have no safety net,” Rohde said referring to people coming through the shelter. “They don’t have family or a place to go. Most of the homelessness we see are men and women who have to flee home because of safety, and they are homeless because they don’t feel safe at home. It’s a transition.” Advocates in the community are hoping by raising awareness about people experiencing homelessness in the region that community members will be more understanding, tolerant, and help by donating to organizations working to transition people into housing, like Forks Abuse, and West End Outreach. “We are really a giving community,” said Ryan. “We are going to have to figure something out. I think we can do it though.” Reprinted from Street Roots, Portland, OR, March 2005. ©Street News Service: www.street­ papers.org Page 7 �War cont. from page 1 amputees. Estimates of the Iraqi death toll are hard to come by officially, but the civilian toll is thought to range from 17,000 to nearly 20,000 dead and beyond.” Earlier last month, ABC’s World News Tonight anchor Peter Jennings reported: “There are no official numbers of Iraqi civilian casualties, but Iraqi Body Count, an independent web-site that compiles media reports of the deaths there, says as many as 18,000 Iraqis may have been killed.” According to a study published in the respected British medical journal The Lancet, about 100,000 Iraqi civilians have died as a result of the war. The majority of deaths were due to violence, primarily as a result of U.S.-led military action. One of the researchers on the project said that the estimate is likely a conservative one. It’s certainly a more scientific estimate than the Iraq Body Count figure cited by ABC, which is, as that project’s website notes, a “compilation of civilian deaths that have been reported by recognized sources.... It is likely that many if not most civilian casualties will go unreported by the media.” (http:// www.iraqbodycount.net) Recent polling indicates that the vast majority of the American public believes that U.S. casualties in Iraq are unacceptable. One can only wonder what Americans think about the level of Iraqi civilian casualties; unfortunately, the media’s count dramatically minimizes that death toll. But for certain, American death tolls are reported every night on the evening news broadcasts. A Thumbnail of US Homeless (Top) banner displayed on Fountain Square stage. (Above) Protestors gather in the rain. (Below) Protestor on the Square. Page 8 The National Law Center for Most people, including the Homelessness and Poverty reports homeless, are not inherently lazy. But that over 3 million men, women, and the US economic system does not children were homeless over the past adequately support those at the year – about 30% of them chronically lowest skill levels, even if they are and the others temporarily. In many willing to work – leading to cases people are in and out of the unemployment and millions of homeless system, which includes “working poor.” Incomes for the shelters, hospitals, the streets, and poorest Americans have not nearly prisons. It is these chronic users of kept pace with rising housing costs. the system that utilize up to 90% of Therefore, millions of hard workers the nations resources devoted to the are shut out of the private housing problem. market. Job training, education, Homelessness can be caused trade schools, and other systemic by a variety of problems. The main economic incentives and welfare cause is unaffordable housing for the disincentives should be applied with poor. Secondary causes include whatever funds are available from mental illness, physical illnesses, foundation or government sources. substance abuse, lack of incentives to This will raise income levels overall work and lack of a decent education. and make housing more affordable. This, coupled with the benefits poor On top of the 3 million who were homeless or marginally and homeless receive like homeless there are an additional 5 Supplemental Security Income (SSI), food stamps, and TANF (welfare), million poor people that spend over half of their incomes on housing, should lower the overall future level of homelessness. leaving them on the verge of homelessness. A missed paycheck, a For mayors, city councils, health crisis, or an unpaid bill can and even homeless providers it may easily push poor families over the seem that placing homeless people in edge into homelessness. shelters is the most inexpensive way It has been reported that the of meeting basic needs. This is types of assistance homeless adults deceptive. The cost of homelessness felt they needed most were help can be quite high, particularly for finding a job, help finding affordable those with chronic illnesses. Because housing, and help paying for housing. they have no regular place to stay, However, the main types of people who are homeless use a assistance they usually received were variety of public systems in an clothing, transportation and help with inefficient and costly way. Preventing public benefits. Few homeless a homeless episode, or ensuring a actually receive help finding housing, speedy transition in to stable likely because caregivers know it’s permanent housing can result in a unaffordable or otherwise significant overall cost savings. unattainable. According to figures provided by the US Departmeny of Health and Human Services up to 600,000 men, women, and children go homeless each night in the US. In New York City alone, city officials estimated that there were 30,000 people utilizing the shelter system on a daily basis, more than at any other time in the city’s history. A survey of 25 U.S. cities found that in 2000, families with children accounted for 36% of the homeless population (U.S. Conference of Mayors) Streetvibes �Second Chance cont. from page 6 special school he attends for mentally delayed children. The bus driver reported that she saw Horace kick my son’s back in the hallway of the apartment building as the bus driver was beeping his horn. At this point, I wasn’t sure what to think. Part of me felt he couldn’t have done such a thing. Part of me worried that he had. Because of his developmental delays, my son couldn’t tell me what really happened. A 51-A was filed with DSS as a result of the bus driver’s charge, which meant a social worker came out once a month for an hour to ask questions about what happened and about our parenting in general. We had to attend parenting classes, and Horace had to go to a battering­ men’s group. We were psychologically tested by a doctor. They also tested my kids for sexual abuse. We were allowed to keep our kids at that time. In 1993, Horace’s mother died, and he began drinking a lot. I also found out he was smoking dope. One day he took my daughter to school, and a teacher heard him call her stupid. Another 51-A was filed, and DSS did more research into our background. I wasn’t sure what to think. When I was around, he treated the kids like a father. He was respectful to them; he’d play with them and take them places. But then, after hearing the concerns of the teacher and bus driver, I didn’t know what to think. Over time, my worst fears were confirmed. Horace began beating, harassing, and mentally and physically abusing me. The first time it happened, he came home really drunk and began yelling at me. He pulled my hair and kicked me in the stomach. He had been in the army, so he knew how to hit without leaving marks. He told me that if I told DSS or anyone, he would hurt me and my kids. One day when I was at my DSS parenting class, a social worker took away my three kids while they were in school. They told me there was evidence that the children were neglected and abused, and that I would have to do parenting classes to get them back – even though I was going to parenting classes and had passed them all with flying colors. That same month, Horace and I lost our apartment. After a brief shelter stay, we found a new place. I continued my parenting classes, as ordered, and I collected letters of support from my counselor, the parenting class teacher, and my psychiatrist. All of them wrote in strong support of me getting my kids back. My school and work offered to write me letters, but DSS didn’t want any letter from them. They said they shouldn’t be involved. DSS allowed us to keep our younger two children – as long as we kept up parenting classes and counseling appointments. One day, I went to a friend’s to do laundry. I told Horace to watch the baby; she was about nine months old and asleep in a crib. I told him I’d be back within an hour. When I came home, I heard my daughter screaming and crying . I looked in the bathroom and the backyard, but there was no one in the house but the baby. I called Horace on his cell phone to find out where he was. He told me he was “out.” Things were calm for a while, but a few years later Horace got arrested for allegedly exposing himself in the park to a mother and a child. The day he got arrested – August 12, 1999 – I went into labor with my youngest child. Horace had to leave the house, and I filed a stayaway order against him. He had to be tested to see if he was a pedophile, and the results indicated that he wasn’t. He was staying with his brother at this time, and I was alone with my new baby and two children. A month later, Horace went to court. The judge ruled that he could return home since he had passed the test. I didn’t want him home, but the judge said he had a right to see his kids. Horace showed up at the house. I wasn’t in court. Horace said he was allowed to come home. I asked him for proof, and he couldn’t present any. I asked him to leave. He said “no,” and we got into a big conflict. My friend, Chere, was staying there, helping me take care of the kids. She asked Horace to leave, and he said, “Who are you to tell me to leave?” I called the police, and they said he had a right to stay there because the lease was in his name. I was looking for some place else to go, but I had two kids and a newborn and no place to go with them. He said that, if I left, he would hurt me and the kids. I contacted a lawyer, and she was filing motions to try to get him out. Another 51-A was filed against Horace for exposing himself again – this time to the social worker visiting the house. Because of this incident and our past history, DSS took my three youngest children away from me, even though I tried to keep Horace away. Not long after, we got evicted from our apartment. Horace said he “spent all his money on other things.” He said it was his money, and he could do what he wanted. I was working, going to school and paying all the bills. Everything I made went to my kids. I was meeting with DSS at that time, and they gave me a psychological test. They said I had a learning disability – only one side of my brain worked well. When we lost our place and DSS had my other kids, I went alone to a shelter. Horace asked me where I was going, and I said, “Getting away from you and trying to get my kids back.” He said, “You can’t get your kids back without me.” Once I got into the shelter and away from Horace, I started talking to staff and other residents about Horace’s abuse and how I might leave him. I told DSS about his violence and threats, and even though they said they suspected abuse, they blamed me for not coming forward sooner. I told them I was afraid to say something because DSS never spoke to me alone. Horace always made sure he was there and answered the questions when they interviewed us. I told DSS that I had never done anything to hurt my children – other than not get away from Horace sooner – and they didn’t believe me. Horace and I had been separated for six months when I finally met up with James, a friend at the shelter. He helped me file for divorce and make my break from Horace for good. Even though I left Horace – and even though no charges had ever been filed against me – DSS still kept my kids away. Again, I went to parenting classes, a counselor and a therapist. Now DSS said I should not be allowed to parent because I could not read or write well and wouldn’t be able to read to my kids. Today, my sister is helping me to fight for my kids. I don’t even have visitation rights, and I only get a letter once a year from foster parents. My sister is getting court records and trying to understand the paperwork. I hope she can help me get a hearing before a judge and, at least, get visitation rights for my children – and maybe someday get them back. I want them to know they have a mother. I know it was a mistake not to leave Horace sooner, but it’s a mistake I would never repeat. I would never put my kids in jeopardy again. Why does everyone else have more than one chance to raise their kids, but I can’t? It is not fair. All I am looking for is a second chance. Got The Vibe? This beautiful, original artwork depicts the vibrant role that Streetvibes plays in downtown Cincinnati and neighboring communities. Created by local artist and activist Mary Ann Lederer in collage form, this colorful 18" X 10" reproduction can be yours to own for only $10. Commemorating Streetvibes 100th issue, proceeds from this limited time offer will go to support the Streetvibes Program and Vendors. To order, call the Homeless Coalition at 421-7803 Streetvibes Page 9 �tell me their “oaths of office” that they took on the same day that president Bush took his oath. Their great oaths of justice, compassion, and safety were offered, one after another, with by Steve Sunderland pride, seriousness, and good feeling. While we all drew, a child would Recently, I had the great come over to me to draw with me. pleasure of visiting the library at Taft Or, hold my hand. Or, to say to Elementary School in Cincinnati to me,”thanks,” and, “I love you.” One meet with children from kindergarten asked if it were possible to walk with to the 7th grade. We have been me to the door and to say good by to meeting to do posters about Martin me more formerly. Luther King’s dream and their own These children, the youngest, hopes and dreams for were the most eager to work, to this world. Taft is a share their stories, and to draw their school made up of all pictures of King and their dreams. inner city kids, all poor, Jerome and I were overwhelmed by largely African the quiet kindnesses, gestures meant American. The for private discussion and shared with librarian is Jerome our whole group and with a stranger Madigan, long time like me. These children came from friend and master the same neighborhoods of trouble as teacher in the Cincinnati the older children, many from the school system. Jerome same families and streets. But the is a tall and imposing hopeful spirit was alive and well, free person, possessed of a flowing, and unchecked by the poison dramatic deep voice, that affected the older ones. It carrying a no nonsense Dr. Steve Sunderland seemed like two different schools, attitude toward any two different locations for the library, “foolishness” in his discussing King, learning about his life two different worlds that were being library or presence, and, as much as revealed to us. and death and beginning the process he sometimes tries, Jerome cannot Before I left the younger of finding their own dreams to follow. hide his immense love for these grades, I took some pictures of the Most of the posters were about children when they appear in his flashy cars, homes for the mother, lots kids holding their posters. You can setting. His library is not very large see the seriousness on some faces as but able to easily handle a class of 20 of money and almost none about they hold their “dreams.” Most are improving society, or going on in children. Old books, newspapers, just so eager to get in the picture, to school. The conversations that each maps, and graphs are arranged show off their energy and creativity. poster generated were valuable. throughout the borders of the library These are Peace Village kids while nine tables dot the center of the Sometimes, quite amazingly, a somehow holding onto their energy, quietness fell over the room as room. joy and strength. So, I ask myself, children really worked hard on their Our format was to bring what happens in the 4th grade to posters, concentrating on making classes of children to the library. these children, to these students, to something important. These times Jerome introduced me as someone these citizens of a failed democracy were followed by the artist standing who was in MLK’s civil rights and a callous educational system? up and describing his or her poster, movement and that wanted to share What has broken down their interest very often in a barely audible voice, stories and ideas about what King indicating a little about how private believed. After a short talk, we would all draw posters on cardboard and secret their dreams and ideas might be. The feeling of pride in the with markers about what we felt drawing, making their “mark” and about King’s dream to be still telling its story carried each speaker important. The posters would be and infected the next one ready to hung on a wall outside the library for jump up and talk in the quiet whisper all of the school to see. A class of that had become our method of students would be brought in for sharing. about an hour for the whole But my great surprise came in experience. the experiences with the kindergarten to fourth graders. One group of the Don’t be Squirrelly! youngest listened in deep attention, interrupting to tell me their details about King’s life when I seemed to omit what they knew. Eager to draw their ideas, they immediately went to work, using lots of colors, and sharing markers, and treating both interesting posters and stories. I started one group by telling them about our song sessions in the civil rights movement and asked, “Who knows the song, “This Little light of Mine?” Lots of hands went up and immediately we were into choruses of this wonderful song as a prelude to drawing and sharing the stories. Another first grade group wanted to The Peace Village We started with the upper grades and found out very quickly that neither the topic nor my teaching style could make much of a dent in the attitudes of the 7th and 8th graders. King and his ideas were not important. A few posters were drawn, several children were sent out of the session to the principal’s office, and the experience was disheartening. 5th and 6 graders were almost at the same point; only, there were more people interested in both Buy Streetvibes! Page 10 Streetvibes in dreaming of a future that holds out some of the passion and spirit that is so abundant in the early grades? Some of the survivors of the upper grades “helped” out with my classes with the younger grades, as Jerome found service opportunities that gave the older ones a chance to reflect on where they had come from just a few years ago. My “aides” took their jobs seriously and both helped the younger ones and drew their own versions of the dream they couldn’t draw just a week earlier. Whatever had been lost or uried in these “aides” reappeared for a moment, was captured in drawings of seriousness, and then, equally suddenly, disappeared as they ran out of the library. I shall not easily forget the faces of all of these children, both those caught in a trap that awaits their early escape, and those kids who have that wonderful spirit of joy, love, and hope that makes teaching and learning in the early grades such a satisfying experience. Big eyes, little faces, long smiles, unlimited energy, and a song voice that sings: “Let me dream, let me dream.” Dr. Steve Sunderland, professor of Social Work at the University of Cincinnati, is the Director of The Peace Village, a group of individuals from the national and interna­ tional community committed to examining all issues of Peace in the world. Dr. Sunderland also heads up Posters-for-Peace which en­ gages people in expressing their visions of Peace, in their own words through the cre­ ation of posters. �Bush Pushes Private Accounts as Public Support Drops President Bush has recently increased his efforts to sell the American public on his plan to privatize Social Security despite continuing evidence that more and more Americans are rejecting his proposals. Yet even while launching a “60 cities in 60 days” tour, the president and other administration officials have been carefully maneuvering to allow whatever reform is adopted to be seen as a victory for the administration. Congress began a two-week recess on March 18 and many Senators and Representatives will devote much of their time in their respective districts to the Social Security issue. Republicans in particular will continue to gauge their constituents’ feelings on reform options. The president’s failure to generate overwhelming support for his proposal among the general public has increasingly made congressional Republicans nervous. Recent polls have shown very weak public support for the president’s approach to Social Security reform. An ABC News/ Washington Post poll conducted from March 10–13 revealed that only 35 percent of respondents approve of the way Bush is handling Social Security, and 55 percent stated they “oppose” Bush’s proposals on Social Security. Forty-nine percent of the respondents in opposition were between the ages of 18 and 29 — a key demographic group from which Bush hopes to receive tremendous support Another poll conducted by USAToday/CNN/Gallup from Feb. 25–27 found similar results; only about 35 percent of respondents approved of the way Bush is handling Social Security. This poll shows a marked drop in support from one conducted three weeks earlier which had found that 43 percent of respondents — eight percent more — had supported the president on Social Security then. Bush continues to stress that with increased education on social security and the problems the program faces in the future, the public will come around to his plan. Reiterating his standard Social Security tagline, Bush recently said, “I’ve got a lot of educating to do to convince people not only that we have a problem, but we need to come together and come up with a solution to Social Security.” Police Abuse of Rev. Donald Tye by Brian Garry Rev Donald Tye recently suffered abuse at the hands of several Cincinnati Police officers. Tye is a well respected, middle class business owner in Walnut Hills. Reverend Tye has been very active in giving back to the community; he sat on the Alcohol and Drug Addiction Services Board, as well as the Black Male Coalition, NAACP and others. Tye runs the family-owned body shop, Tye Collision. On the afternoon of March 13th, 2004, Reverend Tye was doing business as usual at the body shop, when the Cincinnati Police showed up. The police said that there was a junk car with expired plates sitting on the street in front of Tye’s shop. They also stated that the church across the street had complained about Reverend Tye parking cars in the church lot. (The church, Christ Emmanuel, which has close ties with Rev. Tye, has since written a letter stating that they have never made a complaint against Rev. Tye.) The car in question, a freshly painted and restored 1957 Camaro belonged to another local business owner and altruistic community member Stan Beck of Beck’s Hardware. The historic car was dropped off to Rev. Tye without plates, as it was being restored and would receive plates after restoration was completed. A police officer approached Thomas Tye about the car which had only been on the street for a few minutes. At this point, the officer began calling for back up. A few seconds later, when back up arrives, the officer immediately jumps on the back of Rev. Tye’s son, Thomas Tye. Thomas, as can be seen on police cruiser video, then walks outside into the light of day with the officer on his back. During the time when the police were jumping on Thomas Tye his father, Rev. Tye, had been moving the restored car onto his private parking lot. After attacking his son, the officers then turned on the father, Rev. Tye himself. The Police officers violently slung Rev. Tye down the steps injuring him. The officers threatened to taze Tye, jamming the tazer painfully into his side but not engaging the electrodes. They also threatened to mace him. During this period, the officers threatened to taze the mailman, Postman John Vickers. Thomas, Tye’s son, was illegally detained after being attacked by two Cincinnati Police officers. After the violent incident, the officers were caught on police radio transmissions discussing how they could cover up the abuse of throwing Tye down the steps. One officer was also recorded saying that he enjoyed throwing “the old man” (Rev. Tye) down the steps. Mr. Beck’s restored Camaro and another car were towed during the fiasco. Mr. Beck, who is white, was given his car back free of charge. However, the owner of the other vehicle, a local woman who is black, was not able to get her car without paying. She was also told by the Cincinnati Police that they would help her sue Rev. Tye. Another issue brought to light as a result of this incident, is the fact that the Cincinnati Police Department Adventures in Irony with Dr. Wes Browning by Wes Browning Let’s continue to talk about people who make controversial statements in public! Larry H. Summers, research economist and Harvard University president, made a little speech (you can read it yourself at www.president.harvard.edu/speeches/ 2005/nber.html) to a conference of the National Bureau of Economic Research in January which got a few feminists more than a little angry, and now they want him to lose his job, or, failing that, be gently dismembered. Ha! I was just kidding about the dismembered part. But they ARE ticked off, mainly because Summers said that he thought that one reason why women are underrepresented in science professions is the “different availability of aptitude at the high end. “What he said sounds awfully close to “different aptitudes” and that sounds like saying women are dumb, but actually what he’s saying is that men are statistically more likely to be freaks. This theory isn’t new. It was even discussed back when I was teaching college math back in the olden days, when the internet existed mainly to pass raw data around colleges and nobody ever dreamed it could someday help make your penis bigger. The theory is based on the true observation that for a large number of measurable attributes, women’s measurements tend to be less extreme than men’s. So in any large random population most of the freaks will be men. This applies to all kinds of freakdom. In a large random population, for example, it will be the men who will exhibit most of the freakishly high IQs. It will also be the men who will exhibit most of the freakishly low IQs. So the same theory used by Summers to explain women’s under-representation in the sciences also has been used to explain why it’s also mostly men who win Darwinian Awards for dying stupidly.The important thing is he had the nerve to talk about it at all, and now because of that people are thinking about it more. Maybe the discussion will result in better ideas coming out than Larry’s, and maybe he’d welcome them. I think I have a better idea. I got my idea in 1980 when I was teaching basic algebra to a community college class that was three-quarters female. I had a problem. I was explaining algebra the way the book explained it, which generally introduced new ideas by relating them spatially. Most of the class wasn’t getting it. It occurred to me that it might make more sense to just say what algebra really is and leave the geometry out of it. So I explained how algebra is just talking about numbers. Equations are sentences, x’s and y’s are names, etc. The class had an amazing Streetvibes has a Point System, wherein officers get points for such things as getting junk cars towed and getting people cited for weeds in their yard. On the point score sheet there is specific mention of getting 30 points, the maximum number, for having cars towed from May St. in Walnut Hills, were the Tye family operates their shop. The abuse of Rev. Tye and his son is unacceptable. There was no cause for the violence against Rev. Tye and his family at the hands of the police. Rev. Tye and his son did not resist questioning, nor did they break any laws. It is clear that the treatment of Rev. Tye, his family and his business was unjust. The evidence is clear - based on police actions, their recorded words, and their point system. The Citizen Complaint Authority has confirmed that the police acted wrongly and now the final fate of this case lies in the hands of the City Manager , Valerie Lemmie. *** turnaround. Before, most of the boys understood the geometric approach and only a couple of the girls. Now, it was most of the girls who got it, and only one of the boys! I started using both approaches to try to get through to everyone. Now the bad news: a senior professor with control over my job found out what I was doing and told me to stop. His objection was, “The girls don’t need to know math. They’re just going to either get married, or be nurses.” Worse, the senior professor had co-written the book, and he was going to get me fired if I didn’t follow it word for word. So here’s my idea. I think that for about 25 centuries, math and science education has been deliberately geared to the interests and learning styles of boys, even at the cost, at times, of distorting content. I think it’s time to find out what science would look like if women did it. It could be an experiment. Page 11 �Streetvibes Vendor Code of Conduct About the Greater Cincinnati All Vendors Sign and Agree to a Code of Conduct Coalition for the Homeless and Report Any Violations to GCCH - 421-7803 Streetvibes.... 1. Streetvibes will be distributed Vendors must not tell customers earned. This program has helped for a $1 voluntary donation. If a customer donates more than $1 for a paper, vendors are allowed to keep that donation. However, vendors must never ask for more than $1 when selling Streetvibes. 2. Each paper purchased from the Greater Cincinnati Coalition for the Homeless (GCCH) costs 30 cents. Papers will not be given out on credit. Old papers can not be traded in for new papers. 3. Streetvibes may only be purchased from GCCH. Never buy papers from, or sell papers to other vendors. 4. Vendors must not panhandle or sell other items at the same time they are selling Streetvibes. 5. Vendors must treat all other vendors, customers, and GCCH personnel with respect. 6. Vendors must not sell Streetvibes while under the influence. 7. Vendors must not give a “hard sell” or intimidate anyone into purchasing Streetvibes. This includes following customers or continuing to solicit sales after customers have said no. Vendors must also never sell Streetvibes door-to-door. 8. Vendors must not deceive customers while selling Streetvibes. Vendors must be honest in stating that all profits go to the individual vendor. that the money they receive will go to GCCH or any other organization or charity. Also, vendors must not say that they are collecting for “the homeless” in general. 9. Vendors must not sell papers without their badge. Vendors must present their badge when purchasing papers from GCCH. Lost badges cost $2.00 to replace. Broken or worn badges will be replaced for free, but only if the old badge is returned to GCCH. 10. Streetvibes vendor meetings are held on the first weekday of the month at 1pm. The month’s paper will be released at this meeting. If a vendor cannot attend the meeting, he or she should let us know in advance. If a vendor does not call in advance and does not show up, that vendor will not be allowed to purchase papers on the day of the meeting or the following day. Five free papers will be given to those who do attend. 11. Failure to comply with the Code of Conduct may result in termination from the Streetvibes vendor program. GCCH reserves the right to terminate any vendor at any time as deemed appropriate. Badges and Streetvibes papers are property of GCCH, and must be surrendered upon demand. The mission of the North American Street Newspaper Association (NASNA) is to support a street newspaper movement that creates and upholds journalistic and ethical standards while promoting self-help and empowerment among people living in poverty. NASNA papers support homeless and very low-income people in more than 35 cities across the United States and Canada. Streetvibes Vendor: 70 cents Printing and Production: 30 cents Page 12 The Greater Cincinnati Coalition for the Homeless (GCCH) was formed in May of 1984 for one purpose: the eradication of homelessness in Cincinnati. What started out as a coalition of 15 volunteers meeting weekly in an unheated church basement has since grown into a Coalition of over 45 agencies and hundreds of volunteers dedicated to improving services for homeless individuals, educating the public about homelessness and empowering homeless individuals to advocate for their civil rights and housing needs. Streetvibes is a tool of GCCH used to help us achieve our goal of ending homelessness. On the one hand it is a selfsufficiency program geared towards the homeless and marginally housed individuals who are our vendors. Streetvibes vendors buy the paper for 30 cents per copy and sell it for a suggested one-dollar donation, keeping the profit that they have hundreds of people find and maintain housing. The vendors also sign a code of conduct stating that they will behave responsibly and professionally and they proudly display their official Streetvibes badge while selling the paper. Our vendors put a face on “the homeless” of Cincinnati and form lasting friendships with their customers. On the other hand, Streetvibes is an award-winning alternative newspaper and part of the international street newspaper movement. Focusing on homelessness and social justice issues, Streetvibes reports the often-invisible story of poverty in our community. Streetvibes is also proud to include creative writing, poetry, articles, photography and interviews written by homeless and formerly homeless individuals. Streetvibes enjoys a loyal reader base that respects the honest portrayal of the joys, sorrows, and challenges facing the people of Cincinnati. Streetvibes is a member of the: The International Network of Street Papers (INSP) unites street papers sold by homeless and people living in poverty from all over the world. INSP is an umbrella organisation, which provides a consultancy service for its partner papers and advises on the setting up of new street papers and support initiatives for marginalised people. Where Your Dollar Goes... The Streetvibes program maintains a minimal overhead cost so that our vendors can keep as much of the proceeds as possible. Please call our office at 421-7803 for more information about the program. Many thanks for your support. Streetvibes The side effects of Medicine by Linda Corey Heart burn, upset stomach bleeding, liver damage and breathing problems. You take a pill to cure one thing and the side-effects are worse than the medicine the doctor ordered for you. Is there really a cure for anything? I’m not a doctor as Marcus Welby says, I just play one on TV. All of us who attempt to heal the wounds of others will ourselves be wounded; it is, after all, inherent in the relationship.” -from “Healing the Wounds” by David Hilfiker, M.D �Bush Budget to Increase Deficits $1.6 Trillion over 10 Years The Congressional Budget Office released its estimates March 5 for the cost of President Bush’s fiscal year 2006 budget, showing deficits increasing by $1.6 trillion over the next 10 years. The CBO report will greatly impact the way the House and Senate budget committees write their FY 06 budget resolutions set for markup this week. CBO, the nonpartisan agency of Congress that regularly estimates the cost of legislation and policies, projects federal deficits would grow by about $200 billion annually for the next decade. It also changed its estimation of the FY 05 deficit to $395 billion and FY 06 deficit to $332 billion. CBO also lowered its estimate of how much the president’s proposed changes to mandatory spending would save in FY 06, to $26 billion from the $38.7 billion cited by the president and for savings in Medicaid and State Children’s Health Insurance programs from $45 billion to $27 billion — almost half of the amount projected by the White House. Because the president’s budget only considers the next five years, it hides the worst effects of his proposals. Over the next decade, the changes to all mandatory spending proposed by the president, including tax credits, will actually put the government more into debt by $16 billion, not save $70 billion as the president claimed in his budget. Perhaps the most damaging conclusion in the report for the president, coming only two months into his second term, is that he will fail to keep his promise to cut the deficit in half by 2009. CBO projects a deficit in 2009 of $246 billion, fully $40 billion short of his goal. Further, neither Bush’s budget nor the CBO report include many expensive policies likely to be enacted in the future, such as costs for overhauling Social Security ($1 to $2 trillion over 10 years), fixing theAlternative Minimum Tax ($754 billion over 10 years), increases in the cost of the 2003 Medicare prescription drug benefit (hovering around $750 billion over ten years), or supplemental military costs for the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan this year (currently $82 billion for 2005). Despite this grim forecast, the administration and Republican leaders in Congress are steadfast in their support of making CBO’s projections a reality by extending tax cuts to the wealthy without offsets to pay for them. To that end, the House and Senate will most likely push two sets of reconciliation instructions in their budget resolutions this week, one to deal with reductions in mandatory spending and one to extend expiring tax cuts. (See Congressional Leaders Begin Negotiations on Budget Resolution). In the past, Congress has used reconciliation instructions as a deficit reduction tool — protecting legislation lowering entitlement spending, or raising taxes from being filibustered in the Senate. In recent years, the Bush administration has hijacked this process to fast-track huge tax cuts that are not offset and have consequently caused deficits to soar. It appears this process will be used again during the 109th Congress to continue cutting taxes for the wealthy and spending on programs such as Medicaid that benefit mostly low-income Americans. This misuse of the reconciliation process by a few in Congress is damaging to the federal government’s ability to meet its funding obligations to theAmerican people and should be rejected. Car Crash The following quotes are actual statements from insurance forms where car drivers tried to summarize accident details in as few words as possible. Such instances of faulty writing serve to confirm that grammer bloopers can be highly entertaining. The other car collided with mine without giving warning of its intent. I collided with a stationary truck coming the other way. In my attempt to kill a fly, I drove into a telephone pole. I had been shopping for plants all day and was on my way home. As I reached an intersection, a hedge sprang up, obscuring my vision and I did not see the other car. I had been driving for forty years when I fell asleep at the wheel and had an accident. I was on my way to the doctor with rear end trouble when my universal joint gave way causing me to have an accident. My car was legally parked as it backed into the other vehicle. As I approached the intersection a sign suddenly appeared in a place where no sign had ever appeared before, making me unable to avoid the accident. “Don “Don’’t Leave Home W ithout IIt...” t...” t...” U.S. Ranks at Bottom for Child Poverty households with income below 50 per cent of the national median. The report emphasizes the capacity of governments to reduce child poverty rates and demonstrates that higher government spending on family and social benefits is clearly associated with lower child poverty rates. I was sure the old fellow would never make it to the other side of the road when I struck him. The indirect cause of the accident was a little guy in a small car with a big mouth. I was thrown from my car as it left the road, and was later found in a ditch by some stray cows. To avoid hitting the bumper of the car in front, I struck the pedestrian. Str ee The guy was all over the road. I had to swerve a number of times before I hit him. tvib es “Child Poverty in Rich Countries 2005” UNICEF, 2005 A new report published by UNICEF finds that the proportion of children living in poverty has risen in 17 out of 24 industrialized nations of the OECD over the past decade. This amounts to some 40-50 million children growing up below national poverty lines in the world’s richest countries. Denmark and Finland rank best, with child poverty rates of less than 3 per cent. At the bottom are the United States and Mexico, with child poverty rates of more than 20 per cent. The figures refer to relative poverty, defined as I told the police I was not injured, but upon removing my hair, I found that I had a fractured skull. The pedestrian had no idea which way to run, so I ran over him. Support Your Vendor An invisible car came out of nowhere, struck my car and vanished. Buy Streetvibes I pulled away from the side of the road, glanced at my mother-in-law, and headed over the embankment. Streetvibes Page 13 �Something Like a Prayer The Homeless Are The Strongest by Michael Henson by David Cummings For whatever it is has set the stars to arc across the sky that lifts the crow over a field of corn that charges the mole to mine the lawn of the park that charts the clay pipes of the mud dauber’s nest that lends the sea its salt and fecundity that places and replaces the damp oxygen of these lungs that stirs the caddis in the gravel of the creek that fits the vegetal lances to the tips of the maples that drives the winter rains that washes the street with amber light, the light that ignites the windows of the laundromat and draws the radiant weeds out of the brick dust and broken glass of the vacant lot: All praise. All praise. The homeless are the strongest through thick and thin. Lets face the facts, this is a harsh, tormenting, world were living in a tremendous sin, what some police portray the homeless in as if all the poor is belligerent criminals, what’s wrong with them! Whether they are beggars or not, they should not be under contradiction. Many of the poor are bona fide, they need benediction, often excluded from society, and life isn’t a fair game. With no food, you get arrested for asking for spare change. Now drugs are becoming a problem, because some people are getting desperate. There are homeless shelters, but the families are getting separated. Through cruel intentions pride, some police rarely showed this. But they still overcome, that’s why the homeless are the strongest. Woman by Nikki Giovanni she wanted to be a blade of grass amid the fields but he wouldn’t agree to be the dandelion she wanted to be a robin singing through the leaves but he refused to be her tree she spun herself into a web and looking for a place to rest turned to him but he stood straight declining to be her corner she tried to be a book but he wouldn’t read she turned herself into a bulb but he wouldn’t let her grow she decided to become a woman and though he still refused to be a man she decided it was all right Off now, children! Off to war! Kill in your country’s name! For murder on behalf of kin is what allows our boys to win And rest someday in cherished lore. So off now, off to war! Off now, children! Off to war! Make your fathers swell with pride! For though you’re young, they love to hear that you’re a splendid bombardier And dodge death like a matador. So off now, off to war! Off now, children! Off to war! Bring smiles to your mothers’ eyes! They hate to lose you, sure that’s true, but if flags of red, white and blue Are at your funeral, souls will soar. So off now, off to war! Page 14 No-name Poem by Steve Kors III Coke is white and grass is green. But I liked to drink Because it made me mean. I drank from the left And drank from the right. I drank all day. And drank all night, I drank in the sun, I drank in the rain. I would get burned Or soaked with no pain. I have a shot of Beam In that stinky bar. Feels like a wet dream, Then I have to find my car. When I was drinking I got real numb! The Dayton police Knew I was dumb. I was real dirty. I had lost my pride... Sometimes I would wake up, And wish I’d died. I was like a fish. I thought I drank well. But it all turns out I was a cracked bell. The devil had owned me To where I was beat. I lost all my family. And lived on the street. I have a new family who helps me stay dry And when I’m with them I sometimes cry. Now that I’m sober And all is well I found Jesus Christ who keeps me from Hell. The Wind of a New Day by Tony Cavalli The house of racism over there Have people inside With the most peculiar stare That house not like mine It’s built to stand alone Long past it’s time… Long live the wind That blows down the divisions You can’t stop the wind That knocks down the fences, flags, and borders No matter where I go It’s the same old story… Everyone’s working for the house A house that has no foundation… If there was one thing that I prayed for In this crazy mixed up world That we somehow join together Men and women, boys and girls I want to do right Is it too much to ask I want to do right Make up for my past Better the past – better the future Riding the winds of vision We’re going to build a new house for the seekers It is a new day New day It’s a brand new day It is a new day Teacher; it’s a brand new day for the seeker… Seeker; it’s a brand new day for the teacher… Teacher; it’s a brand new day for the seeker… Seeker; it’s a brand new day for the teacher… The words of the newest CD, “New Day,” by the reggae group, Big Mountain, were twisted, and manipulated by Tony Cavalli to bring you this Poem/Song. Streetvibes �Epiphany Right Now by Robert Blanchard by Rachel Lawson You know what I honestly hate When someone gives you advice that you really don’t appreciate If you aren’t in my situation than you have no idea what I’m going through And it easy to say, “to thine own self be true” But it’s a completely different story when its something you have to do Repeatedly making the same mistakes I promised I’d never make again It’s as if I’m dragging along my old faults and thinking of new ones I can create Finding out the hard way it’s easier to be weak than to be strong And it’s harder to start over and learn to let go Advice such as let go and let God really sounds nice when you’re full of faith Unfortunately it doesn’t help when you’re unsure of your future It’s something no one knows Sometimes I’d rather be that preacher telling his congregation what to do Instead of being the indecisive follower fidgeting in the pew But what’s really ironic is when you just want to let it all out Simply have someone you can vent to Someone always wants to speak up and tell you what to do Sometimes you just need an ear to hear your pain And sometimes you want to be selfish and have all attention focused on your situation You don’t want to hear about someone else’s motivation You don’t want to hear about what they did when they faced a moment like yours Because right now they’re not, you are Dawn pinked but briefly in the eastern skies, ‘til it surrendered to the blue. Sleepy street lights dimmed and closed their eyes, it was the time to make it through. Staccato accents bleated to traffic’s roar and smoke, silencing the soft shuffle of feet. Broken men in broken shoes listened and in turn spoke, of their epiphany in the street. “I found a loaf of wheat bread,” pointing to a door, “I got us some sardines to share.” Here were loaves and fishes reverently eaten by these poor, in a communion of brotherly care. The day was slowly passing in its concession to the night, the world wound down still to rest. A single star was shining brightly as flowing light, surely, tomorrow, again would be blessed. One Day Soon by Robert Manassa Just to Justify by Fran Yeager On the campus The place we call U.C. They were in need In need of a reason To spend money Clearly now you must see The structure was ‘spose to be About moving free So, they decided to take it up racially When the truth be known It really wasn’t about black or white It was people being people Moving fast and tryin’ to be on time But, money is money And it’s all a big play So, they got to have a reason For the bills that must be paid While you and me are the puppets Left with the pain The tension from the speed And wanting everything yesterday For as much as we gain Is as much as we can lose For they’ll starve us all To take it all away Just to justify Spending money today It’s love and war And we all got to hold our own pain And keep on working together No matter what any man say They’re fighting it all On needful things! I’m trying my best to reach higher ground. In this life of mine, I’ve been up and down. Reaching for the sky, beyond the stars, I’m heaven bound One Day Soon I’ve been told; don’t put off today for tomorrow ‘cause tomorrow will bring sorrow. I’m going to a land that’s full of milk and honey I’m sure to reach that land, without any money One Day Soon God said, Come unto me, I’ll give you rest, especially when you’ve done your best. I’ve done a lot of good things down here on earth, I’m ready for God to call me home. Hoping one day for being reborn One Day Soon “Steps Closed” Streetvibes by Ben D Boswell Page 15 �TREATMENT: Both N.A. Hopeline 820-2947 A.A. Hotline 351-0422 C.C.A.T. 381-6672 Talbert House 684-7956 Transitions, Inc 859-491-4435 VA Domiciliary 859-559-5011 DIC Live-In Program 721-0643 TREATMENT: Men Charlie’s 3/4 House 784-1853 Prospect House 921-1613 Starting Over 961-2256 TREATMENT: Women First Step Home 961-4663 Full Circle Program 721-0643 HOUSING: CMHA 721-4580 Excel Development 632-7149 Miami Purchase 241-0504 OTR Housing Net. 369-0004 ReSTOC 381-1171 Tender Mercies 721-8666 Tom Geiger House 961-4555 Dana Transitional Bridge Services, Inc 751-9797 Caracole (AIDS) 761-1480 Friars Club 381-5432 Drop Inn Center 721-0643 Haven House 863-8866 Interfaith Hospitality 471-1100 Lighthouse Youth Center (Teens) 961-4080 St. John’s Housing 651-6446 Need Help or Want to Help? If you need help or would like to help please call one of the Greater Cincinnati Coalition for the Homeless members listed below. SHELTERS: Women and Children YWCA Battered Women’s Shelter 872-9259 (Toll Free) 1-888-872-9259 Bethany House 557-2873 Salvation Army 762-5660 Welcome Hse. 859-431-8717 Women’s Crisis Center 859-491-3335 357-4602 SHELTER: Men City Gospel Mission 241-5525 Garden St. House 241-0490 Joseph House (Veterans) 241-2965 St. Francis/St.Joseph House 381-4941 Mt. Airy Center 661-4620 Volunteers of Amer. 381-1954 SHELTER: Both Anthony House (Youth) Formed in 1984, The Greater Cincinnati Coalition for the Homeless is a membership organization. Our member groups serve the homeless through emergency shelter, transitional living facilities, permanent housing, medical services, social services, soup kitchens, and mental health/addiction services. The Coalition also consists of individual citizens who want to take an active role in ensuring that Cincinnati is an inclusive community, meeting the needs of all of its citizens. Join the fight to end homelessness; contact the Greater Cincinnati Coalition for the Homeless at (513) 421-7803, 117 East 12th Street Cincinnati, Ohio 45202 OTHER SERVICES: AIDS Volunteers of Cincinnati 421-2437 Appalachian Identity Center 621-5991 Beech Acres 231-6630 Center for Independent Living Options 241-2600 Churches Active in Northside 591-2246 Cincinnati Health Network 961-0600 Community Action Agency 569-1840 381-4242 241-2563 Contact Center Emanuel Center Freestore/ Foodbank 241-1064 Fransiscan Haircuts 651-6468 Goodwill Industries 771-4800 Coalition for the Homeless 421-7803 Hamilton Co. Mental Health Board 946-8600 Mental Health Access Point 558-8888 Hamilton Co. TB Control 632-7186 Health Rsrc. Center 357-4602 Homeless Mobile Health Van 352-2902 House of Refuge Mission 221-5491 Legal Aid Society 241-9400 Madisonville Ed. & Assis. Center 271-5501 Mary Magdalen House 721-4811 McMicken Dental Clinic 352-6363 Our Daily Bread 621-6364 Peaslee Neighborhood Center 621-5514 Project Connect Homeless Kids 357-5720 St. Vincent De Paul 562-8841 The Emergency Food Center 471-4357 Travelers Aid 721-7660 United Way 721-7900 VA Homeless 859-572-6226 Women Helping Women 872-9259 MIDDLETOWN/HAMILTON (Butler County) St. Raphaels (Food Bank/Soup Kitchen) 863-3184 Salvation Army 863-1445 Serenity House Day Center 422-8555 Open Door Pantry 868-3276 New Life Baptist Mission (Soup Kitchen) 896-9800 Hope House (Homeless Families/Singles) 423-4673 $1 Donation April 2005 STREETVIBES BUY FROM BADGED VENDORS ONLY cover story Casualties of War Greater Cincinnati Coalition for the Homeless � Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource 2005 Text A resource consisting primarily of words for reading. Examples include books, letters, dissertations, poems, newspapers, articles, archives of mailing lists. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre Text. Original Format The type of object, such as painting, sculpture, paper, photo, and additional data Newspaper Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource April 2005 Subject The topic of the resource Homelessness Description An account of the resource Pg 1: Casualties of War Pg 2: Streetvibes Letters Pg 3: Homeless News Digest Pg 4: Vendors Pg 5: Street Life St. X Students Help Low-Income Families Become Homeowners Pg 6: Remembering a Friend Nourishment for the Soul Food Stamp Participation Increases to More Than 25.4 Million Persons Pg 7: A Marathon Run Rural Homelessness Hits Washington State Pg 8: War Continued A Thumbnail of US Homeless Pg 9: Second Chance Continued Pg 10: The Peace Village Pg 11: Bush Pushed Private Accounts as Public Support Drops Police Abuse of Rev. Donald Tye Adventures in Irony with Dr. Wes Browning Pg 12: Streetvibes Vendor Code of Conduct About the Greater Cincinnati Coalition for the Homeless and Streetvibes… Pg 13: Bush Budget to Increase Deficits $1.6 Trillion over 10 Years Pg 14: Arts & Poetry Pg 15: Arts & Poetry Continued Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Streetvibes Archive Project Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Streetvibes Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Greater Cincinnati Homeless Coalition Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource April 2005 Contributor An entity responsible for making contributions to the resource Georgine Getty Alison Leeuw Andy Erickson Rachel Lawson Kate McManus Mary Gaffney Jimmy Heath Ben Boswell Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource PDF Alison Leeuw Andy Erickson Ben Boswell Budget Bush Cincinnati Dr. Wes Browning education Food Research food stamps FRAC Georgine Getty Iraq Iraq War Jimmy Heath Kate McManus Mary Gaffney Peace Village police brutality Rachel Lawson Rev. Donald Tye St. X Street Life Students War Washington State https://streetvibesarchive.net/files/original/7f6af13bce6ed9354608be86466fb8ab.pdf 1d031016c3ead567a4ebc7e387da96a9 PDF Text Text April 2006 STREETVIBES CityLink offers opportunities for people who want real life “CityLink will change connect people to Just like any other city in the U.S., Cincinnati has its own poverty issue. Cincinnati is ranked 16th, ahead of Los Angeles and New York, for percentage of residents living in poverty. One-fifth of Cincinnati residents live in poverty. One-third of Cincinnati’s children live in poverty; simple statements describing a complex problem. Enter CityLink Center, a new proposal to join the fight against poverty in Cincinnati. CityLink is made up of four experienced service providers, dozens of visiting service providers, and hundreds of volunteers who are working together to provide health and wellness recreation, life skills and employment and education services. The four permanent service providers—City Gospel Mission, Jobs Plus, the Lord’s Gym and Crossroad Health Center— believe that they can have greater impact by working together under one roof and coordinating services, rather than providing services independently in their current Over-theRhine locations. concrete, lifechanging programs and a support network,” says Mark Stecher, Director of CityLink. “It is a place for people to learn how to get a different and better life.” “In our experience with CityCURE and City Gospel Mission, we found two key things: first there are many people who are hoping that a better life is just around the corner, and second, there are hundreds of organizations, donors and volunteers scattered across the city who want to help, but just don’t know how,” says Roger Howell, President of CityCURE. “This center provides a place where these News From the Drop Inn Center First Day of Spring?: Unfortunately, we are dealing with what will hopefully be the last blast of winter. One night recently there were 249 people who stayed with us. Let’s hope warmer weather is on the way. New Mats for the Men: A Grant from the Helen Steiner Rice Foundation for new mats for the Men’s Dorm as well as bus tokens for Advocates to use for the next year. Thank you to the Helen Steiner Rice Foundation as well as the staff of the Greater Cincinnati Foundation for making this possible. Funk for the Whole Family: Please mark your calendar for Friday, April 28 from 7-10 PM at the Starlite Ballroom. Be there for a Benefit Concert for the Drop Inn Center featuring the Clark Montessori Steel Band. For a mere $15 you can enjoy co-hosts Bootsy Collins and Tracy Wilson, “Name That Jam” Emcee Tori Turner from MOJO 94.9 and much more! For more information or for tickets visit www.hoxworth.org/ clark (as of now, still under construction) or call 363-7184. Drop Inn Center 5K Run and Walk: This year’s run and walk is themed “A Celebration of Life and Hope” and will be held on Sunday, April 30th at Spring Grove Cemetery. The run starts at 8:30. You can register online by following the link at www.dropinn.org. We will be mailing fliers soon to past participants. If you want to be sure to get a registration form, send an e-mail to amerritt@dropinn.org. Congratulations to Staff Worker Arthur Gerald!: Arthur was the winner of the Entree Competition at Guys, Griddles and Grub— a fundraiser for Community Shares. He prepared people can be linked together to help each other.” The vision is to create a place for people who want to work towards real life change. “You have to want real life change,” says Keenan Robbison, who went through multiple agencies to get on his feet. “CityLink is necessary for this change.” CityLink brings together experienced service providers to offer employment and education, health/wellness, life skills and recreation services under one roof. CityLink also provides the infrastructure to mobilize volunteers and connect individuals to meaningful ways to utilize their skills. Volunteers can offer discussions, greet clients, help with ongoing research to develop best practices or just be a friend. “I grew up in the West End, and my family had to travel to every social service in the city just to meet our basic needs,” says Aaron Jones, who is now a successful mortgage/life insurance broker in Cincinnati. “CityLink will make it easier for families to get help. It will be an asset to the community and force people to acknowledge the West End.” Not only will CityLink make it easier for people to coordinate true, life-changing services, it will also provide them a strong support network of caring friends that will last for a life time. CityLink desires that all people coming to the center will find a friend who will partner with them and support them in meeting their goals. pork crown roast, stuffed with his special dressing. Truly one of a kind! Streetvibes exists as a forum for the expression of the views and opinions of our readers and supporters. The opinions expressed herein are not necessarily those of the Streetvibes staff or the Greater Cincinnati Coalition for the Homeless Greater Cincinnati Coalition for the Homeless �Streetvibes Streetvibes, the Tri­ State’s alternative news source, is a newspaper written by, for, and about the homeless and contains relevant discussions of social justice, and poverty issues. It is published once a month by the Greater Cincinnati Coalition for the Homeless. Becoming a Streetvibes Vendor is a great way for homeless and other low-income people to get back on (or stay on) their feet. Streetvibes Vendors are given an orientation and sign a code of conduct before being given a Streetvibes Vendor badge. Vendors are private contractors who DO NOT work for, or represent, the Greater Cincinnati Coalition for the Homleess. All profits go directly to the vendor. The Greater Cincinnati Coalition for the Homeless is a group of shelters, agencies and individuals committed to ending homelessness in Cincinnati through coordinating services, educating the public and grassroots organizing. GCCH Staff Georgine Getty - Executive Director Allison Leeuw -Administrative Coordinator Monique Little - Education Coordinator Kelly Carr - VISTA Chris Dourson - AHA Coordinator John Lavelle - VISTA Melvin Williams - Reception Susan Smith - Volunteer Streetvibes Jimmy Heath, Editor Photography Jimmy Heath, Berta Lambert Cover Proposed site of CityLink Center in the West End Streetvibes accepts letters, poems, stories, essays, original graphics, and photos. We will give preference to those who are homeless or vendors. Subscriptions to Streetvibes, delivered to your home each month, can be purchased for $25 per year. Address mail to: Streetvibes Greater Cincinnati Coalition for the Homeless (GCCH) 117 East 12th Street Cincinnati, OH 45202 (513) 421-7803 e-mail: streetvibes@juno.com web: http://cincihomeless.org Page 2 Homeless Empowerment Project by: Mike O’Neill from the National Coalition for the Homeless We are grateful for the Catholic Campaign For Human Development, Archdiocese of Washington which gave the National Coalition for the Homeless a grant to assist us with our Homeless Empowerment Project mission of empowering those who have or are experiencing homelessness through trainings and skill-building workshops on various issues surrounding homelessness and poverty. The first workshop, “Know Your Legal Rights on the Streets of DC” was led by Tulin Ozdeger, Civil Rights Attorney, National Law Center on Homelessness and Poverty. Twenty-five homeless and formerly homeless individuals attended this workshop. At this workshop Ms. Ozdeger discussed the D.C. antipanhandling, anti-sleeping and other ordinances targeting the homeless population. Street rights cards were given to each of those attending the workshop-the street rights cars talk about how “vagrancy” or loitering is not a crime-one can’t be stopped or arrested by the police for simply being on the street, a sidewalk or in a public park and police do not have the right to tell you to move from a particular area if you are doing nothing illegal. You also have a right to panhandle in D.C. as long as you are not within 10 feet of an ATM or 15 feet of Metro property and as long as you aren’t aggressively panhandling.” The second workshop had 10 participants and was led by Michael Stoops, Acting Executive Director, National Coalition for the Homeless and Tulin Ozdeger, Civil Rights Attorney, National Law Center on Homelessness and Poverty. The workshop was titled, “Criminalization of Homelessness” and was aimed at discussing the various laws that target the homeless population not only in the District of Columbia, but across the country. NCH and the National Law Center on Homelessness and Poverty surveyed 224 cities across the country and ranked the “Twenty Meanest Cities” based solely on the laws targeting the homeless such as curfew laws, restrictions on feedings, sweeps and raids of homeless encampments, anti-sleeping and antipanhandling laws. The various laws were discussed, as well as verdicts that have been reached in various court cases on these issues. The most recent workshop was led by Richard Troxell, National Chairman, Universal Living Wage and Board Member of the National Coalition for the Homeless. Nine participants attended Mr. Troxell’s workshop where they learned about the Living Wage formula and how if put into effect, it could end homelessness for over 1 million homeless citizens and prevents economic hardship for all 11.8 million minimum wage workers. The goal of the Universal Living wage campaign is to fix the Federal Minimum wage so that someone working forty hours a week can afford a place to live in their community. Statistics were given on the average amount one would need to make to afford a one bedroom apartment in the United States. The goal of these workshops and the Homeless Empowerment project is to provide the opportunity for people who have or are experiencing homelessness to use their voices and faces to dispel stereotypes, personalize homelessness and inspire involvement through volunteerism and advocacy. The project also aims to serve as a training, skill-building and empowerment tool for those who have experienced homelessness. The Homeless Empowerment Project works in conjunctions with the Faces of Homelessness Speakers’ Bureau which recruits currently and formerly homeless individuals to share their personal stories dealing with homelessness to groups throughout the country. Please check our website at www.nationalhomeless.org for more information on the Faces of Homelessness Speakers’ Bureau and the Homeless Empowerment Project. Information on future workshops and activities, as well as pictures and recaps from our events will be posted on our website. Stay tuned for information on Hill lobbying visits and other projects. Group’s goal: Housing for all homeless in 10 On any given day, there are years an estimated 792 homeless people in states largely on their own to deal Muskegon County by 2016. Grand Rapids, Michigan It’s an ambitious goal, but officials involved in the effort said they will pull it off by changing the way social service agencies assist the chronically homeless. A coalition of social service agencies plans to attack the problem by getting homeless individuals and families into permanent housing much faster than in the past. Under the current system, the chronically homeless are shuttled between emergency shelters and transitional housing for two to three years before they are placed in permanent housing. “We can’t afford to have solutions that take three years to provide (housing) stability,” said Jane Johnson, director of the state Department of Human Services office in Muskegon. “We’ll house people first and then help them solve their other problems.” Muskegon’s effort is similar to an initiative started last year by the city of Grand Rapids and Kent County. Officials there also hope to end homelessness in 10 years. Muskegon — 394 of them children, according to government data. Of those 792 individuals, 126 are chronically homeless, which means they are living on the streets, in shelters or regularly moving from one temporary residence to another. Grand Rapids Mayor George Heartwell spoke to a group of about 60 social service providers Tuesday to kick off Muskegon’s effort to end homelessness by 2016. “We got into this problem of homelessness relatively quickly and we can solve the problem quickly if there is a community will to do it,” Heartwell said. The number of homeless families in America soared in the early 1980s, Heartwell said, when former President Ronald Reagan’s administration “eviscerated” funding for the department of Housing and Urban Development. Funding for HUD, the primary source of assistance for the homeless, has been reduced by every presidential administration since Reagan, Heartwell said. Federal budget cuts for subsidized housing have left cities and Streetvibes with the homeless, Heartwell said. Bolstering the safety net for the homeless will require support of local, county and state agencies, as well as faith-based organizations and philanthropists, he said. Johnson said homeless individuals often need help dealing with other issues, such as substance abuse and mental illness, before they can hold a job and pay for housing. Don’t be Squirrelly! Buy Streetvibes! �Homeless News Digest Compiled by Jimmy Heath In Boston last month a homeless man sleeping in a park was attacked by two men who kicked him in the stomach and then set him on fire, police said. No arrests were made and police gave no indication of what might have provoked the attack. The 30-year-old homeless man, whose name was not released, told police he was awakened by the men kicking him in Langone Park in the city’s North End. He drifted back to sleep after the assault, but the men returned, drenched him with a flammable liquid and set his legs on fire, police said. A 911 caller reported flames in the park, and firefighters found the man wrapped in a blanket after he had ripped off some of his burning clothes. “He was shivering and was partially dressed,” said police spokesman John Boyle. The park is a short walk from a cluster of downtown bars. The victim was treated at Massachusetts General Hospital for burns to his legs. Nationally, the number of assaults against the homeless has risen dramatically since 2002, according to a recent report by the National Coalition for the Homeless. In 2005, 73 homeless people were assaulted nationwide and 13 died, the report said. Last August, a 40-year-old homeless man died in Boston after he was beaten. Two teenagers have been charged with manslaughter. In Fort Lauderdale, Fla., a surveillance camera captured two people beating a homeless man to death with baseball bats, the same night two other men were seriously injured. Three teenagers have pleaded not guilty to charges of murder and attempted murder. In Cleveland homeless men and women snooze in the early morning hours inside Hopkins International Airport, the occasional boarding call the only disturbance to their peaceful slumber. They’ve been coming here and to airports in Chicago, New York and other cities for years, seeking quiet, warmth and safety, while blending in with weary travelers. “It’s relaxed and they don’t really bother you here,” said James Miller, who recently became homeless after losing a restaurant job. “It’s kind of comfortable.” Cleveland airport officials have tolerated the presence of the roughly 20 people who sleep on cushioned seats in the ticketing and baggage claim areas on any given winter night. But now they’re joining other airports around the country in looking for ways to help relocate homeless people because of concerns about security. Although the homeless haven’t caused problems, Fred Szabo, the airport’s commissioner, said that because of the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks, airport officials need to make sure that anyone at the airport has a legitimate reason to be there. Cleveland Hopkins has joined LaGuardia Airport and John F. Kennedy International Airport in New York in inviting outreach workers to the airport to help the homeless with the goal of relocating them. “We’re not looking to arrest anybody,” Szabo said. More than 50 area agencies participated in a 24­ hour count earlier this year of homeless people in St. Joseph County, South Bend Now the numbers have been added up: The count found 560 people living in shelters and 93 homeless people who weren’t living in a shelter. That’s similar to last year’s count, where there were 523 in shelters and 100 out of shelters, said the project’s coordinator, Beth Morlock, who directs residential programs at Hope Rescue Mission in South Bend. It isn’t an exhaustive count. Folks may have been at work, at a friend’s house or somewhere away from the counters. But this “snapshot” proves to federal officials that — in general — the community still needs money for homeless services, said Marzy Bauer, who coordinates a local committee of services that sets goals and plans to meet those needs. The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development requires the annual count of each community that receives money for homeless services. Homeless people were found in about a dozen shelters. And those living outside of shelters were interviewed at AIDS Ministries/AIDS Assist, St. Augustine’s church soup kitchen, Broadway Christian Parish, St. Margaret’s House, Hope Rescue Mission, First United Methodist Church soup kitchen and the Center for the Homeless. In British Columbia a vacant home that may have been occupied by squatters has been destroyed by fire. Fire crews were called to the western portion of Abbotsford last month, and arrived in the 27700-block of Fraser Highway to find a house fully involved with fire, said Capt. Steve Oldroyd. With the help of Langley Township fire crews, Abbotsford firefighters established a water supply from the hydrant and worked to put out the fire. “The house appeared to have been occupied by squatters but was vacant at the time of the fire,” said Oldroyd. As there was no power or natural gas connected to the house, investigators are considering the cause of the fire suspicious. The incident remains under investigation. In Eureka, Calif. two teenage boys were charged as adults last month in the murder of a 38-year-old homeless man near Humboldt Bay. Fifteen-year-old Keyontae Lamar Taylor and 16-year-old Joaquin Fitzgerald appeared before a Humboldt County Superior Court judge, but their arraignment was postponed. Both were arrested this week in the death of Tracy Daniel Reynolds. Authorities say Taylor and Fitzgerald encountered Reynolds along the railroad tracks and the three drank some beer together before the teens left. They allegedly returned a short time later to rob Reynolds. The victim was shot once in the leg and once in the chest. In Newark N.J. a homeless man with a history of suing government agencies has dropped a federal lawsuit against the city of Summit. Richard Kreimer, 55, had alleged he was wrongly ejected from train stations, and he sued the city, NJ Transit and others. He signed court papers on Feb. 10 to drop the suit, and it was dismissed in court last month. Kreimer did not list a reason for dropping the lawsuit. Last month, Kreimer settled another lawsuit against a bus company that he said barred him and other homeless people from Streetvibes riding. Kreimer said he was prohibited by the settlement from revealing its terms. Summit Police Chief Robert Lucid said city officials felt his case against Summit had no merit. “The city feels relieved that the issue has been resolved,” he said. “We feel completely vindicated. We never did anything to violate Mr. Kreimer’s rights or any homeless person.” Kreimer, who uses a post office box in Morristown, could not immediately be reached for comment. He received $230,000 in 1991 when he sued Morristown and the Morris Township Public Library for ejecting him because of his body odor and a habit of staring at patrons. He spent that money. In New Delhi, India while President George W. Bush was busy with his official engagements in the Indian capital, First Lady Laura Bush visited homeless children at a juvenile center. Laura visited the Prayas Juvenile Aid Centre, a charity run by a nongovernmental organization for homeless and trafficked children, and interacted with the children at a round table conference. She later enjoyed a Rajasthani folk dance performance by the children. Dressed in an ash-grey suit, Laura accompanied by Jennie Mulford, wife of US ambassador to India David Mulford, took stock of the alternative educational centers run by the center located in Tughlaqabad, south Delhi. “The First Lady interacted with the children without the help of a translator and was impressed by their courage to take life positively,” said Rajib Haldar, executive director of the NGO. Haldar said Laura interacted with five children about children’s problems and patted them for studying despite facing several obstacles. The children had queries on whether there is any gender bias in the US and do all children get equal education. They also asked about women’s empowerment in the US and the situation on the education of the girl child there. In reply, Laura said the women’s workforce in her country was more than that of men but admitted that trafficking of children was still prevalent. Laura was given a glimpse of a village council which the NGO presented through puppets under a tree. The First Lady asked the children to write to her regularly, and promised to reply. Page 3 �Remembering Cincinnati’s 2001 Civil Unrest Did Cincinnati’s Civil Unrest Change City Politics? story and photos by Jimmy Heath . 19 year-old Timothy Thomas was wanted on misdemeanor arrest warrants and running from police in Over-theRhine on Saturday, April 7th, 2001 when he was shot by a Cincinnati policeman. Police Officer Stephen Roach, who had never fired his weapon on duty, shot and killed Thomas in a dead-end alley off Republic Street. Thomas appeared to be reaching for his waistband during a confrontation with the policeman in the alley, according to early police reports. Timothy Thomas was the fourth black man killed by Cincinnati police since November of 2000, and the fifteenth such victim since 1995. Thomas was the father of a three-month-old son. This month is the fifth anniversary of the shooting of Thomas. His death fueled nearly a week of civil unrest and rioting in urban Cincinnati, the effects of which can still be felt in urban neighborhoods, especially Over­ the-Rhine. Violence erupted on Monday, April 9th, 2001 following a police news conference about the Thomas shooting. Angry residents crowded Cincinnati City Hall, targeting their rage against then Mayor Luken, City Council members, and police representatives. The protesters filled the council chambers, some standing on tables and chairs screaming at city leaders, almost preventing them from leaving during the three hour confrontation. Thomas’s mother, Angela Leisure, took the podium at one point and demanded an explanation for the shooting of her son. “You took him from his family and his son and we want to know why. And don’t get me wrong, even when you tell me why, it’s not going to make it better.” The lack of answers fueled additional anger and frustration in the assembled crowd and the waiting community. That evening, (Monday night) after a makeshift march from the confrontation at City Hall, hundreds of angry protesters assembled outside police headquarters in downtown Cincinnati. Police in riot gear and on horseback sprayed the crowd with a chemical irritant and fired at the protesters with beanbag shotguns. A brick was thrown, breaking the glass front door of Page 4 police headquarters. Ten arrests were reported. The rioting became more serious Tuesday afternoon and evening as crowds took to the streets again. Clothing shops, restaurants and convenience stores were broken into and looted. The fire department stayed busy putting out building and garbage can fires. Most of the unrest was focused on the downtown, West End and Over-the-Rhine neighborhoods ­ some of the poorest communities in the city. Cincinnati NAACP President Norma Holt Davis said the fatal shooting of Thomas by a Cincinnati police officer lead her to only one conclusion. “It appears the police force has declared war on African-Americans,” she said. “Fifteen black males have died at the hands of Cincinnati police in the past six years. Before the healing process can ever finish, the wound reopens,” said Rev. Damon Lynch III, pastor of Over­ the-Rhine’s New Prospect Baptist Church, referring to the shooting death of Thomas. Hamilton County Prosecutor Mike Allen, who denounced participants as “law­ breaking thugs who should be prosecuted vigorously,” announced he was indicting 63 people arrested on felony charges, ranging from aggravated rioting, breaking and entering, weapons possession, inducing panic and other misdemeanor offenses, such as resisting arrest and disorderly conduct. All of these events led the evening news programs – the violence, the fear, the images of rampaging “thugs” and burning dumpsters. The media continued to descend on the scene to record the mayhem throughout the week - eventually the whole world knew what was going on in Cincinnati. Local and nationally recognized civil rights activists came to Over-theRhine calling for peaceful discussions and an end to violence on the streets. It made for good TV and painful politics. The death of Thomas was the shot heard around the world, with Cincinnati suddenly thrown into the international spotlight. His death was a rallying point for national discussions on police violence, poverty and racism. When protestors first took to the streets, the events in Cincinnati were put in the context of a “race riot.” However, when the discussions turned to racism, the frustration of the oppressed and the poor, the gleam of the story started to wear thin. A lot of people on the streets saw themselves as fighting the oppressor white society which is not quite the same as fighting against white people. Is it possible that Timothy Thomas would have never been shot in the first place if he had been white? Nearly 800 people were eventually arrested for violating the four-day curfew imposed by Mayor Charlie Luken when he declared a state of emergency on Wednesday, April 12, 2001. Over 1,000 people attended the Thomas’ funeral on Saturday, April 14 at New Prospect Baptist Church in Over­ the-Rhine. More than a funeral, it was a media and political showand-tell event. Mayor Luken was there and so was the Bob Taft, the Governor of Ohio, along with other political bigwigs and throngs of reporters. Streetvibes Following the funeral service, mourners joined with hundreds outside the church and marched peacefully through the Over-the-Rhine neighborhood where Thomas was shot. Some 1,000 people of all races participated in the march. Conspicuously absent from the march were the politicians. Politically, nothing much has changed. The poor neighborhoods, predominately African-American communities, still feel the frustration of being black in a white dominated City Hall and police force. Some inner-city residents are just as frightened of the police as they are of the drug thugs and street-corner­ gangsters. Many of the thugs and looters, who were “vigorously” prosecuted five years ago have long-since been released from jail after serving out their sentences, only to return to the street filled with prison-anger and resentment. Many businesses in Over­ the-Rhine, even after five years, continue to struggle with the stigma of the event with many fearful money-spending white suburbanites staying away from the downtown area in droves. Many businesses in Over-the-Rhine left the neighborhood, never to return. In a recent TV news show it was reported that some businesses lost up to 90% of their sales after the unrest. Patrons of the Main Street �Entertainment District still feel fearful of the neighborhood and many have never returned. People frequently ask me if things in Over­ the-Rhine have returned to normal. Sadly, things have slowly returned to the same as before - if “normal” is a war zone, a crime zone, and a drug-filled zone. The most obvious thing is the slow and agonizing lack of progress in community and police relations. Although the police have adopted less lethal methods for subduing suspects (they are now armed with the recently approved Taser stun guns), and we now have an African-American mayor, the sense of isolation and lack of communication dominates the relationship between the police and the urban community. The police division’s leadership continues to be criticized as unresponsive and uncaring. It is simplistic to dismiss the deaths of black people at the hands of police as unfortunate and unavoidable aspects of police work. Since the unrest, the deaths of black men at the hands of the police have dropped dramatically but the police must come to understand the frustrations and fears that these incidents continue to engender in the communities it patrols. Even more significant from the perspective of black Cincinnatians is that no city police officer has ever been convicted of a killing. (There has been only one reprimand.) Sadly, all that makes the news is the drama of life on the streets in the inner-city. We don’t often hear the stories of the families and the senior citizens and the majority of residents in Over-the-Rhine and other poor Cincinnati neighborhoods that are law-abiding and working hard to support their families - trying to build something for themselves and their neighbors. Many of these families have packed-up and left the neighborhood long ago. Maybe that’s the plan. To rid the downtown area of the “less-desirable” poor. We only hear the horror stories of shootings, robbery and drug dealing. The drama that feeds the evening news is taken as truth by middle-class white Cincinnati. Even in the face of overwhelming historical precedent, American denial about the role that race or racism plays Unrest cont. on page 8 OHIO EMPOWERMENT COALITION MAY MOBILIZATION DAY Thursday, May 11, 2006 Trinity Episcopal Church 125 E. Broad Street, Columbus Ohio (across from Statehouse) 10:00 a.m. – 2:30 p.m. OEC’s Annual Mobilization Day brings together low-income people and advocates from around the state to mobilize to impact Ohio’s policies that directly affect our lives. The Mobilization Day focuses on our Safe and Stable Families Campaign: Win Back Health Care This year we are raring to go to win back health care programs that are essential to keeping our Families (both single adults without children and parents with children) Safe and Stable! We refuse to be silent when we are being terminated out of essential lifesaving health care programs. Health Care is essential to be Safe and Stable! Win Increase in Minimum Wage We will also raise the banner cry for a raise in the minimum wage in Ohio. No one who is working should be forced to live in poverty on poverty wages. A livable wage is essential for Ohio Families to be Safe (from bankruptcy & homelessness) and Stable. Win Protections for Domestic Violence Victims Thirdly we continue to raise the cry for those who are crying and so far Ohio’s Legislators turn a deaf ear! It should be a no-brainer for the Ohio Assembly to adopt domestic violence protections in the “Family Violence Option” so all domestic violence victims in Ohio are humanely treated. Why is Ohio one of ONLY 3 states that has not adopted this? We won’t be quiet until we get it so that more Ohio Families can be Safe and Stable! If you care about these issues join us May 11th in Columbus. Fill out registration form on back so we will know how many lunches are needed. Also if you have special needs or need child care. For more information call Ohio Empowerment Coalition at 877-862-5179. Streetvibes Page 5 �Spring is Near! new hope will enter into your life of by Ms. Mary Gaffney employment and a place to call home. Hello there, my Streetvibes And to the monthly friends. purchasers of Welcome to Streetvibes, my the first month of heartfelt thanks. Each spring. I do hope purchase of a dollar that the flowers and paper helps to trees soon begin to maintain things that bloom, bringing with are needed – food, the smell of new life clothing and shelter. to the New Year. Without you, some Miss Mary Gaffney And to my vendor’s lives would homeless friends, as be very bleak and the opening days of spring appear, stormy. I know personally, they could Dear Editor: In the article appearing in the Post on Wed. March 8th, “Panel OKs Minimum Wage Hike”, Rep. Flowers (Rep) from Columbus who voted for the increase is quoted as saying raising the minimum wage is “the right thing to do.” I agree with the Representative. However raising Ohio’s minimum wage to merely $5.15, as the Ohio General Assembly recently did, is a slap in the face of low wage workers. The wage of $5.15, set by the Federal government nine years ago in 1997, is woefully low! At $5.15 a full time worker who works every week of the year Peace Village by Dr. Steve Sunderland The Peace or Hunger Conference is coming together as the planning team, the UC Peace Village student organization, the UC Just Community and the University of Cincinnati’s Facilities and Campus Scheduling staff all have added their very valuable pieces. We are doing a conference for the first time in the city’s history, really, in the region’s history. Students, high school and college, can come together to reduce hunger in our community by direct action and service provided by teams of schools and colleges. We meet to deepen our knowledge of just what is needed and what is possible. We meet to offer spiritual support and food to those in our community who are in greatest need. We will meet and conference on 4/29-30/2006 at the University of Cincinnati’s Campus Green. This is a large and flat green space that we will be able to seal off with tape, bike barriers, and other ways that secure our space. It is a very large space, with room for lots of cardboard “houses,” and room for groups to meet and discuss local, regional and national issues of hunger, and room for other activities that heighten our understanding of hunger. Ms. Kathleen Armontrout, UC Administrative Support Page 6 not make it. That is why I give thanks each month for your generosity to my friends. Until next month, enjoy the first days of spring and remember, it doesn’t take much to give a smile to help a person through their day. Until next time, also remember to be kind to your fellow man, for this person could some day return and lend you a helping hand. Enjoy the sunny days to come. will make a paltry $10,712. Poverty level for a family of three is $16,600. As an organizer for Let Justice Roll Ohio, I have heard countless stories of low-wage workers who are playing by the rules, but don’t get paid enough to afford rent, utilities, rising prices at the pump, daycare. I’ve talked with homeless families working for full-time for $5.25/hour and can’t afford housing. Ohio needs to truly support its workers. Most Ohioans agree. We believe a good first step is to raise Ohio’s wage through a ballot initiative that raises the minimum wage in Ohio to $6.85/hour and indexed to inflation. Yes, Rep. Flowers, it is “the right thing to do,” but it is also the moral thing to do. Katy Heins No Honor in Bush’s War With the 2004 election farce behind us and spewing out the kind of politics the Republican party has come to known for, I was initially surprised at the level of my anger at Bush’s contest over who is the better Vietnam veteran, Bush or anti-war veterans of previous wars. To understand the “veteran” question in 2006, it is important to understand what is at stake with the Republican party’s attempts to define themselves as loyal veterans. Bush served in the military during the Vietnam War and, he opposed the war with his National Guard stint. Through involvement of thousands of veterans against the war, with actions like the Winter-Soldier Specialist for Campus Scheduling, informs me that we will be very secure with 6-8 campus police. Karen will be checking with campus security for special bracelets for every participant that will permit each person to enter into our conference. We hope to be able to issue each team a bracelet either before or when you arrive at the conference. We would expect people to arrive at UC’s Campus Green with their boxes/ houses and set them up between 8­ 10am on 4/ 29/06. We are hoping that the Clark Montessori High School Steve Sunderland Steel Band will open our conference with their great music. We will have a morning of orientation, meeting new people, introductions and welcome by officials of the conference, the city and the university. We thought it would be great if everyone brought a small lunch, peanut butter and jelly, or whatever, to eat at the end of the morning. We will leave for Over-the-Rhine service activities via either cars and/or city busses. The Greater Cincinnati Coalition for the Homeless is placing teams at various agencies. The service events take place between 1-5pm. Then we return to UC’s Campus Green for an “Empty Bowls” dinner, discussion about our service activities in regard to what we learned, and then we will have an evening of discussing many of the issues connected to hunger in our city and world. Our seminars will end around 11. We will then enter our “Shantytown Houses” for an evening of rest. We have a breakfast in the morning and proceed to discussions about what are the key ways we can bring the “message” of reducing hunger back to our schools and colleges. We are planning to end by noon on Sunday. Some part of our closing will be the making of posters that can be used both back at schools or colleges and loaned to a “Peace and Hunger Exhibit” at Xavier University. We might want to turn our “houses” into art for the exhibit, too. Streetvibes War Crimes Tribunal, Dewey Canyon III, and throwing back of medals and ribbons on the Capital steps, the Vietnam War changed the image of what it meant to be a veteran in the US. No longer was the image of the veteran that of the flag-waving VFW. Rather it was now one of an anti-war activist veteran speaking out and acting in opposition to militarist policies and actions of the government. Simply put, to be a Vietnam veteran was to be against the Vietnam War. This understanding was a key component to our opposition to the overt and covert operations in Central and south America in the late 70’s and 80’s. Anti-war veterans were among the first to oppose the first Gulf War by Bush the Elder, calling it the immoral and illegal invasion it was. Today’s war in Afghanistan and Iraq should also be opposed. Sonny Williams Send your letters or comments to Streetvibes, 117 East 12th Street, Cincinnati Ohio 45202, or email to Streetvibes@juno.com We are asking high schools to form teams of 7 people, 6 students and a teacher and/or parent. Each team will bring a case of food for the FreeStore and pay a team conference fee of $25.00. This money will cover any related conference expenses and, if not completely used, be donated to the FreeStore FoodBank. College students are also to be pre­ registered and in teams of 7 people. Teams will travel to the service agencies on Saturday afternoon. Everyone needs to pre­ register. This is important for figuring out our community space, food needs, security needs, service agency participation, seminar formats, and written materials. Forms for pre-registration will be sent to everyone on our email list. Todd Forman of Moeller High School is developing a web page for our conference. Please go to: http://homepages.moeller.org/ pastmin/peacevillage. We will update this page as needed. Contact ­ sundersc@email.uc.edu for any questions about any of the conference. I am director of the Peace Village, professor of educational foundations and peace studies, University of Cincinnati, and co faculty advisor for the UC Peace Village. �Pontiac, Michigan to hear plan for homeless Late last year, Pontiac officials gave the cold shoulder to a $1-million state grant to provide housing for homeless people. The officials carried on a refrain heard for years in their city: They were tired of Pontiac being a dumping ground for homeless people. Since then, two deadlines for getting the grant, set by the Michigan State Housing Development Authority, have come and gone. But hope is not lost, say leaders of the nonprofit group Lighthouse of Oakland County Inc. — whose headquarters and symbolic 2 1/2 -story lighthouse sit on Woodward Avenue a few blocks from Pontiac City Hall. They expect to meet today with new Mayor Clarence Phillips to show him that the grant wouldn’t create a magnet for street people. Lighthouse officials, charged with implementing the grant from the state housing authority in Lansing, are enthusiastic about a new way to use the money — an approach called supportive housing, said John Ziraldo, president and chief executive officer of the 34-year-old service agency. Supportive housing provides permanent shelter backed by intensive social assistance — from family and financial counseling to job training, mental health care and addiction treatment, Ziraldo said. The idea is working well in Philadelphia, Grand Rapids, southwest Detroit and on a small scale in scattered Oakland County communities. Those include Royal Oak, Waterford and even Pontiac, where supportive housing has been quietly implemented in cases where the city’s approval wasn’t needed, Ziraldo said last week. To Pontiac officials’ demands that the $1-million state grant be spent elsewhere, Ziraldo said the situation is one of use it or lose it: “The state is clear that this grant is intended to serve people who are homeless and in Pontiac.” The Lighthouse proposal would use the grant to lease apartments in existing buildings in Pontiac, then set up social programs to qualify homeless candidates and begin counseling them, Ziraldo said. Phillips could not be reached for comment. A spokeswoman for the mayor said she thought Lighthouse would face obstacles in getting the city to approve the plan, although she couldn’t elaborate. Also at the meeting at City Hall, Ziraldo and Lighthouse Executive Director Joseph Heaphy plan to ask Phillips to bless another of their plans — to build or renovate about 40 apartments in the city’s Unity Park area, where Lighthouse has its headquarters just east of downtown. That plan would use city money dedicated for housing to match a low-income tax credit that Lighthouse is seeking from the state, but the match would not require that any dollars be taken from the city’s deficit-ridden general fund, Ziraldo said. “We are going to apply for this tax credit in March, and part of that process is the state asking us, ‘What kind of local support do you have?’ “ he said. Homeless Man Attacked in Boston In Boston last month police were searching for two people who attacked a homeless man as he slept in a park and set his legs on fire. The 30-year-old victim, whose name was not released, was being treated for burns at Massachusetts General Hospital, officials said. Mayor Thomas M. Menino promised that the attackers would be tracked down and arrested. “We’re going to find you,” he told reporters. “We’re going to lock you up. We’re going to hope the jury and the judge throw the book at you.” The homeless man told police he was awakened early in the morning by the men kicking him in Langone Park in the city’s North End. He drifted back to sleep but the men returned, drenched him with a flammable liquid and set his legs on fire, police said. A 911 caller reported flames in the park, and firefighters found the man wrapped in a blanket after he had ripped off some of his burning clothes. The park is a short walk from a cluster of downtown bars. Nationally, the number of assaults against the homeless has risen dramatically since 2002, according to a recent report by the National Coalition for the Homeless. In 2005, 73 homeless people were assaulted nationwide and 13 died, the report said. “It’s the perception that it’s someone insignificant that doesn’t matter,” said Emmanuel Smith, a The Provider You have people who want to rob you, other suppliers who don’t want the competition, the police who want to shut your operation down, and the uncertain hours which are mostly late night and early morning. Combined, it causes family problems. It’s not that you’re not providing for them. It’s every time they hear a gunshot, or an ambulance go by, or a telephone ring late at night or early in the morning when you’re not at home. By you being out all times of the day and night, you’re not spending enough time with them. They’re also worried about what might happen to you. Then it gets to the point you’re expendable. They would rather you go than live the way they’re living. And you wonder why. Didn’t I provide? Didn’t I take all the risk? Wasn’t I the one in constant danger? But when it all boils down and you think about it, they lived in fear thinking about what might happen to you. So this was a way to distance them away for you. Like the old saying goes, “out of sight, out of mind.” by Luther K. Being a provider! How do you provide for someone when you’re having a hard time providing for yourself? You know it’s your responsibility despite the circumstances that put you in that position. You try to do the right thing. You look for a job. You do the temporary services. It’s just not enough. The work isn’t steady and they make it seem like you’re making a lot of money. After taxes, lunch fee, and transportation cost, you’re basically working for them. They’re making a whole lot of profit off of you. Then someone tells you there’s a better way to make money. You listen to their pitch. It seems like a good idea at the time, so you become an independent contractor with an unlimited supply of product that’s in popular demand. You make your own hours, your own base. But there’s also a downside. What you’re doing is dangerous and illegal. counselor at the Pine Street Inn, a Boston homeless shelter. In the overwhelming number of cases, the attackers are teenagers, according to the national report. Last August, a 40-year-old homeless man died in Boston after he was beaten; two teenagers were charged with manslaughter. In Fort Lauderdale, Florida, a homeless man was beaten to death the same night a surveillance camera captured two people assaulting a homeless men with a baseball bat. A third homeless man was bludgeoned nearby with a golf club. Three teenagers have pleaded not guilty to charges of murder and attempted murder. 21 YEARS SERVING THE NEIGHBORHOOD Empowering our neighborhood chil­ dren through peace, art and education Peaslee Neighborhood Center 215 East 14th Street Over-the-Rhine Cincinnati, Ohio 45202 (513) 621-5514 Streetvibes Homeless Count Completed Overnight In New York, more than 2,000 volunteers spent the night out in the freezing cold as they participated in the fourth annual homeless count. They scoured the city’s parks, streets, and subways, counting the number of homeless they saw. The annual count helps the city track its progress in getting New Yorkers off the streets. For the first time last year, all five boroughs were included in the count. “It’s a good way for the city to take account of the homeless people and I feel like I’m helping people, doing something worthwhile,” said volunteer Tom Facchiano. Volunteers also offer help to any homeless person they encounter, but it isn’t always accepted. “Like Malcolm X said, ‘If you need help from your enemy, then you’re in trouble,’” said a homeless man. “I don’t view the government as helping people. The government is part of the problem.” Results of the count are expected in about a month. Critics, however, say the count itself is inaccurate because it doesn’t include people living in cars, abandoned buildings, or other hidden places. Last year, volunteers counted 4,400 homeless people. The mayor has set a goal of reducing that number to less than 1,500 by 2009. Page 7 �Unrest cont. from page 5 in these, and similar events, remains strong. Despite repeated warnings from civil rights leaders and black police officers in Cincinnati, the police department’s official response was that the shootings must be considered individually rather than as a pattern. Tragic as the death of Mr. Thomas was, the rioting that swept the city was about more than the loss of one young man. It was about the deep rifts that separate citizens and city government. It shows just how tenuous the relations are between the police and the African-American community. And it reveals dissatisfaction in the areas of education, jobs and economic opportunity, housing and community leadership. With this crisis has come the opportunity for improvement. Cincinnati must make real changes in each of these areas if the city is to grow beyond the turmoil of that fateful week three years ago. Many Americans, particularly white Americans, are quick to deny race as the primary motive in almost any negative act against a person of color (unless the person committing the act is wearing a white sheet). Police brutality cases are just a Show your support! Get your STEETVIBES T- Shirt Today! Only $15 We will send your Streetvibes T-shirt to your door ­ All proceeds benefit the Greater Cincinnati Coalition for the Homeless and the Streetvibes newspaper. Call 513.421.7803 Page 8 Streetvibes symptom of the illness. Cincinnati city government continues to struggle with the ‘distasteful’ symptoms of poverty and racism, confronting the issue with window dressing, sound bites and half­ hearted attempts at reconciliation. The gap continues even after five years. In Cincinnati government, denial may be the most serious affliction. Minimum Wage Campaign Let Justice Roll Cincinnati is sponsoring a forum along with many others on the Minimum Wage campaign in Ohio. The forum will be Sunday April 23rd at 2:00 pm at the Schiff Family conference center on Xavier University campus (in the Cintas Center). The goal of the conference is to educate people on the issue, hear testimony from workers, businesses and religious leaders and gather signatures. We hope you will come out in support of this great event. Show Cincinnati and Ohio that we support the increase in Ohio’s minimum wage!! If you belong to a church or an organization who would co­ sponsor the event, please contact Betsy or Bill at ljro_interns@hotmail.com Cosponsorship responsibilities are to have your name on the flyer and press releases, circulate the information in your church or organization, a representative of your church or organization attend the event. We hope to have a long list of co-sponsors to again show the wide support of the Cincinnati Community in raising the minimum wage! �The Firecat Review Firecats Review the Oscars: Firecat Chameleon: Did we only watch it because Jon Stewart hosted it? Firecat Black: I did. Firecat Blue: I always watch it. Firecat Turquoise: I didn’t watch it. Oh! This yogurt is think and creamy. Black: She’s a robot. Also, who else was I thinking’s a robot? Bob Barker! Chameleon: She’s like 60. She’s a few months older than my dad. Blue: She could be you dad! Chameleon: You mean my mom? Blue: No. Chameleon: I don’t even know what Oh! I don’t like this. I AM picky. that means. Damn. Turquoise: Yoplait, you and me ain’t Chameleon: So what else happened, doing so well this week. besides Three 6 Mafia? Chameleon: Is it bad? Black: Dolly performed. Turquoise: No – it’s like pudding. Blue: She looked weird. It’s the consistency. It feels funny in Black: Kind of proof that Barbie my mouth. There’s something about could walk. food you don’t have to chew… Blue: I was thinking the same thing! Blue: Okay, so back to the Oscars. Turquoise: On her show she came I thought it was really funny that they out on a swing. I loved that! sat Keira Knightly next to Jack Nicholson. Black: Oh yeah! She looked terrified. Chameleon: He looked like a pederast. Turquoise: I like Jack Nicholson. Black: Don’t they usually sit with friends and families? Got The Vibe? Turquoise: Maybe they’re all dead. He’s old. Or they don’t like him. Blue: What about her? Black: She’s from England. Maybe they didn’t come over to L.A. She probably lives in L.A. Blue: She does…I don’t stalk her… Black: I only know Harry Potter and American Idol (brief fight erupts over “R.A.B.’s” identity in book 6). Turquoise: I saw American Idol. Black: Did you like any of them? Turquoise: There was one Simon says set the bar. And the white girl with bleach blonde hair sang the hell out of her song. Black: She’s the one from ass- nowhere in like Arkansas. Turquoise: I knew watching it would come in handy. Blue: Why was Lost another repeat? I watched “Little People, Big World” – so good! Turquoise: I saw a show on them! There’s twins and one’s a little person and one’s average height. Blue: So good! I LOVE TLC. National Homeless Civil Rights Organizing Project (NHCROP) 117 East 12th Street Cincinnati, OH 45202 homelesscivilrights@yahoo.com Greater Cincinnati Coalition for the Homeless (513) 421-7803 This beautiful, original artwork depicts the vibrant role that Streetvibes plays in downtown Cincinnati and neighboring communities. Created by local artist and activist Mary Ann Lederer in collage form, this colorful 18" X 10" reproduction can be yours to own for only $10. Commemorating Streetvibes 100th issue, proceeds from this limited time offer will go to support the Streetvibes Program and Vendors. Buy Streetvibes From Badged Vendors Only! Streetvibes Vendors are required to sign a code of conduct and agree to abide by all the rules of the Streetvibes Vendor Pro­ gram. If a Vendor misrepresents or breaks the rules, she/he may be removed from the Program. To report a Vendor, call 421­ 7803. ext. 16 Visit the Greater Cincinnati Coaltion for the Homeless website at - http://www.cincihomeless.org Visit the Streevibes archives at - http:// www.cincihomeless.org/content/streetvibes.html Streetvibes Page 9 �Six Months After Katrina: Who Was Left Behind - Then and Now by Bill Quigley Nearly six months ago, my wife Debbie and I boated out of New Orleans. We left five days after Katrina struck. Debbie worked as an oncology nurse in a New Orleans hospital. She volunteered to come in during the hurricane so that other nurses with children could evacuate. There were about 2000 people huddled in the hospital ­ patients, staff and families of staff and patients. Plate glass windows exploded in the lobby and on crosswalks and on several floors. Water poured in though broken windows, ceilings, and down the elevator shafts. Eight feet of brown floodwater surrounded us. The entire city immediately lost electricity. Soon the hospital backup generators located in the basement failed. No lights. No phones. Even the water system stopped. No drinking water. No flush toilets. You can imagine a hospital with 2000 people and no electricity, water, food, or flushing toilets. Breathing machines did not work. Cell phones did not work. Because the computers stopped working medicines were unavailable. Elevators in the 8 floor building did not work. We quickly ran out of food because the cafeteria and food were also in the flooded basement. The gains of 21st century medicine disappeared. Over 40 people died in the hospital over the next few days as we waited for help. Now imagine an entire city with no electricity, water, food or flushing toilets and tens of thousands of people left behind. Debbie and I left five days later by way of a small fishing boat, the back of a garden truck, and the kindness of strangers. We returned 15 weeks later. Many of those left behind then who evacuated with us have yet to return. The Katrina evacuation was totally self-help. If you had the resources, a car, money and a place to go, you left. Over one million people evacuated - 80 to 90% of the population. No provisions were made for those who could not evacuate themselves. To this day no one has a reliable estimate of how many people were left behind in Katrina - that in itself says quite a bit about what happened. Who was left behind in the self-help evacuation? In the hospital, we could not see who was left behind because we did not have electricity or TV. We certainly knew the 2000 of us were left behind, and from the hospital we could see others. Some were floating in the street - face down. Some were Page 10 paddling down the street - helping older folks get to high ground. Some were swimming down the streets. We could hear people left behind screaming for help from rooftops. We routinely heard gunshots as people trapped on rooftops tried to get the attention of helicopters crisscrossing the skies above. We could see the people trapped in the Salvation Army home a block away. We could hear breaking glass as people scrambled to get away from flooded one story homes and into the higher ground of several story office buildings. We saw people swimming to the local drugstore and swimming out with provisions. But we had no idea how many were actually left behind. The poor, especially those without cars, were left behind. Twenty-seven percent of the people of New Orleans did not have access to a car. Government authorities knew in advance that “.100,000 citizens of New Orleans did not have means of personal transportation.” The sick were left behind. Some government reports estimated 12,000 patients were evacuated. I estimate at least an additional 24,000 people - staff and families of patients ­ were left behind in the twenty-two hospitals which were open at the time. The elderly were left behind. The 280 plus local nursing homes remained mostly full. Only 21% evacuated and as a consequence 215 people died in nursing homes, at least six people died at a single nursing home while they waited four days for busses. The aged who lived at home also certainly found it more difficult than most to evacuate as they were more likely to live alone, less likely to own a car and nearly half were disabled. A physician reported hundreds of people in wheelchairs were in front of the Convention Center. A comprehensive study of evacuees in Houston shelters found one in seven physically disabled, 22% physically unable to evacuate, 23% stayed behind to care for someone physically disabled, and 25% had a chronic disease such as heart disease, diabetes or high blood pressure. There were no provisions made for their evacuations. Children were left behind. While there are no official estimates breaking out children left behind, I know from what we saw during our evacuation that many, many children were among those left behind. About one-fourth of the people living in the areas damaged were children, about 183,000 kids, including 47,000 children under the age of 5. Over half of the children displaced were African-American and 30% of children in the damaged areas were poor, nearly double the 2000 national census rate for child poverty of 16.6%. These children were almost twice as likely to live in a femaleheaded home than children nationally. Prisoners were left behind. Local prisons held 8300 inmates, most on local minor charges awaiting trial and too poor to post bond. Thousands were left behind with no food, water, or medical attention. Jails depend on electricity as much as hospitals do - doors of cells and halls and pods and entrances and exits are electronically opened and closed. More than 600 hundred prisoners, one entire building, were left behind once the prisons were evacuated - left in chest deep water, locked into cells. Ultimately as many as 40,000 people took refuge in the Superdome which lost power, lost part of its roof, the water system failed and the toilets backed up. Another 20-30,000 people were dropped off at the Convention Center. Conditions at the Convention Center were far worse than at the Superdome because the Convention Center was never intended to be used for evacuees it did not have any drinking water, food, or medical care at all. Ten people died in or around the Superdome, four at the convention center. Unfounded rumors flew about rapes and murders inside these centers - and the myth that rescue helicopters were fired upon - have all been found to be untrue. But those rumors so upset military and medical responders that many slowed down demanding protection from the evacuees - only to be greeted by “a whole lot of people clapping and cheering” when they arrived. Debbie and I left the hospital after five days. Helicopters finally came and airlifted out many patients, their families and staff. Others, like us, left in small fishing boats piloted by volunteers. The Coast Guard reported it rescued 33,000 people and the National Guard reported rescues of another 25,000 people. Louisiana Department of Homeland Security said 62,000 people were rescued from rooftops or out of water - not including those already in shelters. Many, many others, like us, were rescued by volunteers in boats and trucks. Some people never made it out of metropolitan New Orleans. February 2006 reports from the Louisiana Department of Health and Hospitals show 1,103 bodies were recovered from the storm and flood, with over 2,000 people still reported missing. About 215 people died in local hospitals and nursing homes. Where did the survivors end up? According to FEMA, evacuees Streetvibes ended up all over - applications came in from 18,700 zip codes in all 50 states - half of the nation’s residential postal zones. Most evacuee families stayed within 250 miles of New Orleans, but 240,000 households went to Houston and other cities over 250 miles away and another 60,000 households went over 750 miles away. Who ended up in shelters? Over 270,000 evacuees started out in shelters. The Washington Post, the Henry J. Kaiser Family Foundation and the Harvard School of Public Health surveyed 680 randomly selected adult evacuees in Houston shelters on September 10-12, 2005. “Hurricane Katrina likely made one of the poorest areas of the country even poorer. Both those who were poor before the storm and those who have become poor following the storm, are likely to face a particularly difficult time in reestablishing their lives, have few if any financial resources upon which to draw.” Congressional Research Service 2005. Debbie and I ultimately ended up spending several months in an apartment in Houston while New Orleans started its recovery. Loyola Law Clinic, where I work, moved into the Disaster Relief Center in Houston and our clinic students interviewed and gave assistance to over a thousand evacuees. We were able to come back to New Orleans for good in midDecember because our house was located close to the University and only sustained roof damage. Very few of the people who were evacuated with us have been able to return. It seems clear that most of the same people who were left behind in the evacuation for Katrina are being left behind again in the reconstruction of New Orleans. In fact, now there are even more being left behind. Hundreds of thousands of people have not been able to make it back. Drive through the city away from the French Quarter, Central Business District and the St. Charles streetcar line and you will see tens of thousands of still damaged and unoccupied homes. Hundreds of thousands of people have not made it back. There were 469,000 fewer people in the metropolitan New Orleans area in January 2006 than in August 2005. Most of the City was still without power in early 2006. About two-thirds of the homes in New Orleans did not have electricity in early 2006, even fewer had gas. Seventy-three percent of the homes in New Orleans were in areas damaged by the storm. But, as the �Brown University study concluded “storm damage data shows that the storm’s impact was disproportionately borne by the region’s African-American community, by people who rented their homes and by the poor and unemployed.” The little reconstruction that has started is aimed at home-owners. Louisiana is slated to receive $6.2 billion in Community Development Block Grant money and the Governor says $1 billion “could be used to encourage the rebuilding of affordable housing.” So with 45% of the homes damaged occupied by renters, affordable housing “could” end up with 16% of the assistance. Public housing is politically out of the question in early 2006. There is no national or local commitment to re-opening public housing in the city. U.S. Congressman Richard Baker, a longtime critic of public housing in New Orleans, was quoted in the Wall Street Journal after the storm saying “We finally cleaned up in New Orleans. We couldn’t do it, but God did.” As the Brown study politely observed “people who previously lived in public housing seem to have the least chances to return, given current policy. All public housing has been closed (and special barriers bolted to the doors).plans for reopening the projects or for constructing new affordable housing have not become public.” Debbie lost her nursing job when her hospital failed to reopen. She is not alone. There are now 200,000 fewer jobs in the area than in August. The sick are not likely to return anytime soon. Healthcare in New Orleans is now difficult even for those with insurance but nearly impossible for the poor without it. While there were 22 hospitals open in New Orleans in June, in early 2006 there were 7, a 78% reduction. Before Katrina there were 53,000 hospital beds in the area, in February 2006 there were 15,000 - waits of more than 8 hours in emergency rooms are not uncommon. With so many hospitals closed, people needing regular medical care like dialysis or chemotherapy cannot expect to return. Worse still for the poor, there is no public hospital in New Orleans any more - the Charity Hospital that over 50% of the people in shelters went to has not been reopened. Many of the disabled are still in the areas where they evacuated to, causing financial and medical concerns in those states. Others of the disabled, who lived at home prior to the evacuation, fear being institutionalized. Children have not returned to New Orleans. Most public schools remain closed or have been converted into charter schools. Before the storm there were 117 public schools with 60,000 students. In January 2006, there were 19 open, including 8 new charter schools, serving about 13,000 students. Houston alone has nearly 20,000 evacuated students. The failure to reopen public schools in New Orleans has prompted litigation to force the charter and public schools to accept children. Even among homeowners, it is much more likely that white homeowners will have the chance to rebuild than black homeowners because of deep patterns of racial disparities in income - white median income is $61,000 compared to black income of $25,000. Black businesses were severely impacted by Katrina. Rebuilding by homeowners in mostly black lowlying neighborhoods is much less likely at the time of the writing of this article because of bulldozing plans by the city and because rebuilding in those areas depends heavily on planning and homeowners insurance and flood insurance issues, many of which have yet to be resolved. As a result, because renters, poor people and those without work are overwhelmingly African-American, “New Orleans is at risk of losing 80% of its black population.” There is not a sign outside of New Orleans saying “If you are poor, sick, elderly, disabled, children or African-American, you cannot return.” But there might as well be. The people left behind in the evacuation of New Orleans after Katrina are the same people left behind in rebuilding of New Orleans ­ the poor, the sick, the elderly, the disabled, and children, mostly African-American. Now that we are back from Houston, Debbie has just started a new job at another hospital. I am fortunate enough to work at one of the universities which was not severely physically damaged by the storm and floods. We are back. But where are our neighbors, the people we rode out of the city with? Where are the hundreds of thousands of our neighbors and will they ever be allowed to return? Where is New Orleans now, and more importantly, where is it going to be? Finally, if all levels of government and corporate power allow this to happen in New Orleans, do you think it will be any different in your city? Bill Quigley is a civil and human rights lawyer and Professor of Law at Loyola University New Orleans School of Law. He donated this story to the Street News Service. All opinions held in the article are the author’s-you can reach him at Quigley@loyno.edu Agencies Mislead the Public on Katrina State and federal government NRDC senior scientist who oversaw officials are misleading the public about potential health hazards from toxic contamination in New Orleans, according to a Feb. 23 report by the Natural Resources Defense Council (NRDC). Hurricane Katrina’s winds and floodwaters released heavy metals and other industrial byproducts throughout the area, according to the report. These hazardous materials then deposited in homes, yards, and schools across the region, in what is now a cracked layer of toxic muck. The Environmental ProtectionAgency (EPA) and Louisiana Department of Environmental Quality (LDEQ), however, state that contamination levels in the city pose no “unacceptable” health risks — a statement disputed by the NRDC report using EPA’s own data. EPA took hundreds of soil samples in the New Orleans region from Sept. 10, 2005 to Jan. 15, 2006. While EPA has posted its testing data online, the agency has provided no comprehensive analysis of that data. The hundreds of data points are too complex to be useful to the average concerned citizen trying to determine if it is safe to return to his or her home, or what precautions should take before returning home. Without analysis of the data, residents are left with little other than EPA’s and LDEQ’s vague press statements about environmental conditions in the area. The NRDC, for the first time, analyzed the hundreds of EPA soil samples, connecting the data to create the missing overview for the area. The NRDC analysis found high problem,” said Dr. Gina Solomon, the the analysis. “More than a third of the EPA samples in New Orleans had arsenic levels that exceed the Louisiana threshold level requiring an investigation or cleanup. Federal and state agencies have to clean up this toxic mess to ensure returning residents are safe.” The report identified eight hot spots where levels of diesel fuel ingredients, which can cause kidney damage, increased blood pressure, and decreased ability to form blood clots, are more than 100 times higher than the LDEQ’s standard for residential neighborhoods. These hot spots are located in Bywater, Lakeview, Central City/Garden District, and Mid-City, as well as in Chalmette and St. Bernard Parish. In the absence of meaningful state and federal warnings against possible chemical exposures, community members in St. Bernard Parish are taking matters into their own hands. The Louisiana Bucket Brigade, and the St. Bernard Citizens for Environmental Quality held a March 4 training to distribute and instruct on the use of sampling kits for residents to take soil samples on their property. The samples collected by residents will be shipped to a laboratory to be tested for heavy metals and diesel fuel ingredients — called diesel-range organics. Environmental groups are pressing EPA to remove toxic sediment and contaminated soil from yards, fully inform people of the precise scope and nature of the health threats, and provide detailed information about what precautions citizens should take to protect themselves and their families. “Don “Don’’t Leave Home W ithout IIt...” t...” Streetvibes Page 11 �Streetvibes Vendor Code of Conduct About the Greater Cincinnati All Vendors Sign and Agree to a Code of Conduct Coalition for the Homeless and Report Any Violations to GCCH - 421-7803 Streetvibes.... 1. Streetvibes will be distributed Vendors must not tell customers earned. This program has helped for a $1 voluntary donation. If a customer donates more than $1 for a paper, vendors are allowed to keep that donation. However, vendors must never ask for more than $1 when selling Streetvibes. 2. Each paper purchased from the Greater Cincinnati Coalition for the Homeless (GCCH) costs 25 cents. Papers will not be given out on credit. Old papers can not be traded in for new papers. 3. Streetvibes may only be purchased from GCCH. Never buy papers from, or sell papers to other vendors. 4. Vendors must not panhandle or sell other items at the same time they are selling Streetvibes. 5. Vendors must treat all other vendors, customers, and GCCH personnel with respect. 6. Vendors must not sell Streetvibes while under the influence. 7. Vendors must not give a “hard sell” or intimidate anyone into purchasing Streetvibes. This includes following customers or continuing to solicit sales after customers have said no. Vendors must also never sell Streetvibes door-to-door. 8. Vendors must not deceive customers while selling Streetvibes. Vendors must be honest in stating that all profits go to the individual vendor. that the money they receive will go to GCCH or any other organization or charity. Also, vendors must not say that they are collecting for “the homeless” in general. 9. Vendors must not sell papers without their badge. Vendors must present their badge when purchasing papers from GCCH. Lost badges cost $2.00 to replace. Broken or worn badges will be replaced for free, but only if the old badge is returned to GCCH. 10. Streetvibes vendor meetings are held on the first weekday of the month at 1pm. The month’s paper will be released at this meeting. If a vendor cannot attend the meeting, he or she should let us know in advance. If a vendor does not call in advance and does not show up, that vendor will not be allowed to purchase papers on the day of the meeting or the following day. Five free papers will be given to those who do attend. 11. Failure to comply with the Code of Conduct may result in termination from the Streetvibes vendor program. GCCH reserves the right to terminate any vendor at any time as deemed appropriate. Badges and Streetvibes papers are property of GCCH, and must be surrendered upon demand. The mission of the North American Street Newspaper Association (NASNA) is to support a street newspaper movement that creates and upholds journalistic and ethical standards while promoting self-help and empowerment among people living in poverty. NASNA papers support homeless and very low-income people in more than 35 cities across the United States and Canada. Streetvibes Vendor: 75 Cents (75 cent profit goes directly to the vendor) Homeless Coalition 25 Cents Printing and Production: 25 cents (this cost does not cover expenses) The Greater Cincinnati Coalition for the Homeless (GCCH) was formed in May of 1984 for one purpose: the eradication of homelessness in Cincinnati. What started out as a coalition of 15 volunteers meeting weekly in an unheated church basement has since grown into a Coalition of over 45 agencies and hundreds of volunteers dedicated to improving services for homeless individuals, educating the public about homelessness and empowering homeless individuals to advocate for their civil rights and housing needs. Streetvibes is a tool of GCCH used to help us achieve our goal of ending homelessness. On the one hand it is a selfsufficiency program geared towards the homeless and marginally housed individuals who are our vendors. Streetvibes vendors buy the paper for 30 cents per copy and sell it for a suggested one-dollar donation, keeping the profit that they have hundreds of people find and maintain housing. The vendors also sign a code of conduct stating that they will behave responsibly and professionally and they proudly display their official Streetvibes badge while selling the paper. Our vendors put a face on “the homeless” of Cincinnati and form lasting friendships with their customers. On the other hand, Streetvibes is an award-winning alternative newspaper and part of the international street newspaper movement. Focusing on homelessness and social justice issues, Streetvibes reports the often-invisible story of poverty in our community. Streetvibes is also proud to include creative writing, poetry, articles, photography and interviews written by homeless and formerly homeless individuals. Streetvibes enjoys a loyal reader base that respects the honest portrayal of the joys, sorrows, and challenges facing the people of Cincinnati. Streetvibes is a member of the: The International Network of Street Papers (INSP) unites street papers sold by homeless and people living in poverty from all over the world. INSP is an umbrella organisation, which provides a consultancy service for its partner papers and advises on the setting up of new street papers and support initiatives for marginalised people. Where Your Dollar Goes... The Streetvibes program maintains a minimal overhead cost so that our vendors can keep as much of the proceeds as possible. Please call our office at 421-7803 for more information about the program. Many thanks for your support. Hungry not only for bread - but hungry for love. Naked not only for clothing - but naked for human dignity and respect. Homeless not only for want of a room of bricks - but homeless because of rejection. Mother Teresa Buy Streetvibes Page 12 Streetvibes �Gunshot victim waits 32 hours for help The Oakland, California police answered call but didn’t see homeless woman. The graveyard-shift dispatcher at Veteran’s Cab in Oakland heard gunfire and called the police, but more than a day passed before anyone peered into the bulletriddled car on the street and saw the homeless woman inside with a gunshot wound to her head. She was still alive after spending 32 hours wrapped in blankets and slumped in the back seat of the abandoned Oldsmobile she had called home. Police had been alerted to the shooting moments after it occurred. “It’s a real miracle that she stayed alive so long,” the dispatcher, Linda, said that day, asking that her last name not be published for fear of retribution. “There was a bullet hole above her right eye, and the whole (right) side of her face was swelled up. It was shocking. How did she survive like that?” Oakland police, who insisted they promptly checked out Linda’s report of gunfire early Sunday morning and found nothing amiss, had not determined a motive and had few clues in the shooting, which occurred in a desolate industrial stretch of East Oakland. “It just appears to be a random incident,” and Oakland police spokesman, Officer Roland Homeless problem hardly swept away In Hawaii homeless advocates say it will take more than “sweeps” to clear areas where homeless are reappearing About a year ago, police officers swept through the Lake Wilson area, removing homeless people living there. One of the homeless who moved before police got there was Owena Hooks. But after staying away for a week, she returned because she didn’t want to be a burden on her friends and family. Today the 47-year-old woman lives in a neatly kept tent by the bank of the lake. The tent — with a small living and kitchen area, coffee table and couch — is hidden from view, unseen by passing motorists on the road above. Hooks has worked hard over the past year to make it “homey.” Holmgren, said. “It’s under investigation.” Although police were called to the scene moments after the shooting, no one spotted her until 9:30 a.m. the following Monday, when employees at Veteran’s Cab and an auto body repair shop across the street found her sprawled across the backseat of a silver 1987 Oldsmobile 98 on 54th Avenue. “I saw the gunshot holes on the (driver’s) side of the car, and then I looked inside,” said Alberto, who was the first to see the woman. He was opening his auto repair shop when he wandered over to check out the Oldsmobile, which the woman had lived in for three months. “I saw her and the gunshot wound in her face. I thought she was dead, then she moved. I was surprised she was alive.” Alberto, who also did not want his last name published, called 911. He said it seemed to take forever for help to arrive. “There was a big bullet hole in her forehead, and I thought she was going to die any minute,” Alberto said. “It took police 20 minutes to get here. I was praying they would be faster. I didn’t realize she was there just hanging on for two nights.” Police said the woman told them she did not know who attacked her or why. Investigators do not believe anyone witnessed the shooting because it happened in the early morning in an area filled mostly with small auto-repair businesses that are closed nights and weekends. “It’s a desolate area,” said Holmgren, who spent five years patrolling that neighborhood. “There’s no real reason to be there in the late hours of the night and the early morning. There’s really nothing there.” Linda, Alberto and several employees of Veteran’s Cab said the homeless woman was quiet and kept to herself. She would return a greeting or smile, they said, but would never initiate a conversation and often kept her eyes downcast. They said she would sleep in the car at night but leave the block during the day. No one knew where she went. Her return underscores Oahu’s homelessness problem and the ineffectiveness of sweeps. A year after law enforcement cleared the homeless from Wahiawa, Ewa Beach and Mokuleia, some have returned simply because there is nowhere else to go, homeless advocates say. “There’s nowhere to go and the numbers are increasing,” said the Rev. Jack Smith of the Wahiawa Community Church of the Nazarene, among those who assist the homeless at the lake. “The success rate is one out of 100. There are other areas in Lake Wilson that we have not begin to touch yet.” Smith stressed that education is necessary for the homeless to maintain jobs and manage their own finances. “Unless they are taught responsibility and management, they will return back to where they have been taken from,” he said, noting there are about 50 people he assists in the area. Forcing them to move from one place to another is not the solution, according to Darlene Hein, director of the Waikiki Health Center’s Care-A-Van program, which provides food, clothing and medical care to the homeless around the island. More low-income housing is needed, as well as treatment and services for the homeless, said Hein, who recently testified at the state Legislature in favor of repealing a law that makes it a petty misdemeanor to trespass at public parks and recreational grounds. A report compiled by the Joint Legislative Housing and Homeless Task Force made recommendations to lawmakers that include a five-year plan that calls for developing more affordable housing, repairs to vacant public housing units and additional services for the homeless. According to one recent study, nearly 6,000 people statewide are homeless at any given time, said Sen. Ron Menor, co-chairman of the task force. In Ewa Beach, near Oneula Beach Park, a hibachi, two mattresses and other personal items partially covered by tarp crowded the side of a van parked along a small, rocky edge. Several other vehicles lined the edge where some fishermen go to cast their lines. “She was living in that car, and I think she didn’t want anyone to complain about her,” Alberto said. “She wasn’t friendly or unfriendly. She was trying to keep a low profile.” The car was not registered in the woman’s name, police said, and witnesses said it had been there since last fall. It was unclear why the wounded woman didn’t seek help or honk the car’s horn. She may have been unconscious for much of the time, witnesses said, or may not have realized anyone was at the taxi company to help. “I darkened the lights and looked outside, and I saw a green car drive away and then turn onto San Leandro Way,” Linda recalled . “I didn’t hear any shouting or screaming or anything, so I just called 911. I was afraid to go outside.” Streetvibes Linda said she never saw a police officer, but Holmgren said an officer checked the area but didn’t see anything out of the ordinary. Linda said she called 911 again just before her shift ended at 9 a.m. Sunday to report what she’d heard, then left. She didn’t see bullet holes on the driver’s side of the Oldsmobile until she was driving away. She knew the homeless woman lived in the car, but it didn’t occur to her that she might be lying wounded inside. “I didn’t see anyone inside, I just saw blankets in the back seat,” Linda said. “I didn’t realize she was in there.” When Linda arrived at work at about 11 p.m. Sunday, she called the police again ask what had happened and if the homeless woman was OK. “I got frustrated because the police didn’t seem to know what I was talking about, and it was my third call,” she said. Then, as she was getting ready to leave work Monday morning, Linda heard a commotion outside, and Alberto and several mechanics who work for the taxi company urging her to call 911. She made the call, then ran to the Oldsmobile. She opened the door and saw the woman looking back at her. “I told her that an ambulance was on the way, and she just nodded at me. I think she was in shock,” Linda said. “I’m so glad she’s alive. I can’t believe she made it.” About 30 homeless people have returned to the beach park, according to Jeff Alexander, member of the Ewa Neighborhood Board. “They live in their cars. They’re setting up tents on the beach again,” Alexander said. On March 2, 2005, police evicted about 100 homeless people from the park. And as in other places, some slowly trickled back after the sweep. At Lake Wilson, Jody Celoza has been camping for a month after leaving a transitional home in Waipahu. Celoza, 34, said she overcame a five-year habit of abusing crystal meth, or “ice.” She has been drug-free for six months. Celoza learned about the campsite near the Wilson Bridge through a friend, and said she is staying there temporarily. Though she has family members on the island, Celoza said she doesn’t want to burden them with her problems. “I don’t want to be homeless. But I am,” Celoza said, smoking and standing under the tarp to protect herself from the rain. “Hopefully, I’ll get back on my feet.” Page 13 �Friendship in Over-the-Rhine by W. McLindon Hey man, give me a dime. How about letting me have half-a­ dollar? Come on man, you can do that for me, can’t you? Most of the time I hear words of this nature from total strangers. But more and more they are the echoes of the mouths of people I have thought of as – if not friends, at least as being close. I can not help but wonder has the situation in this part of town come to measuring all emotions on the scale of what one person can give another. So everyday I am going to see how much friendship I can buy with a halfa-dollar. Maybe I can buy enough to last until I make it to the next block on the street. Friendship – such a strong, powerful word; yet how often have we misused it. Put it in such a small, unimportant position. Be my friend doesn’t appear to mean the same thing as it did when I was a kid. Now to say we are friends don’t have to mean anymore than we know (knew) each other for more than 5 or 6 minutes. Have the financial means (meaning 5 or 6 dollars in one’s pocket) in Over-theRhine one can purchase friendship, but only 5 or 6 dollars worth. Yet friends do exist; someday even we may become friends. The Color of my Skin by George Herrell I remember when I was younger, some kids couldn’t be my friends They’d said their parents had said something , about the color of my skin We had laughed together often, and we got along fine. We just figured that as time went on They would surely change their minds. But is seemed as we got older, we grew further apart I found their parents opinions of me had polluted their minds and hearts THE FLOOD OF ’83 Alough that was many years ago Not very much has changed I would have sworn that time would overcome, And yet prejudice remains by Sarge Lintecum One time when city livin’ Became more than I could afford, I took my wife and children To a place with free room and board. How could people be so ignorant? And have so much hate within? That thy would judge me not by heart but by the color of my skin? We moved out in the boonies And in case a ranger came, So we could be there legal, I decided to stake a claim. We made our camp at the junction Of Temporal and Gringo Gulch. The scenery was breathtaking And the soil felt like mulch. I stacked stones at each corner Till they were three feet high. I didn’t have a measuring tape So I did it all by eye. For two months we were happy; The kids had room to run. I made them bows and arrows; Our days were filled with fun. Then the sky turned black with thunder And lightening crashed all around. We brought our two dobie guard dogs In the truck so they wouldn’t drown. Four days and nights the rain came down But we stayed dry inside, Till some town folks came sayin’ we should come in Before the stream’s too wide. We got a rope across the water So we could all hang on, ‘Cause if you were to fall on a slippery rock In a second you would be gone. Well we all made it out to safety And soon we were dry and warm, But you know when I think back on those days I don’t hardly think of the storm. I can see my wife smile by the campfire; I can hear her sweet laugh in the sun. She made us prickly pear jelly To go on a freshly baked bun. I’m Back by Robert Manassa I made a vow to self and to you To sell you Streetvibes on Saturday Though someone else had something else in mind They thought evil thoughts about me, they thought I was in the blind I’m Back I’m proud of you , you have fait in me, you are on my side. You helped me to hold to hold on to my dignity and my pride When you are right, you are right, and when you are wrong you are wrong I’m here now and forever I’m not ready to say so long I’m back Sure, my given name is Robert, that I won’t change From this day forward I will tell the story You call me Robert need more You won’t find me in any store I need more of this, more of that I need more of everything, and that’s a fact I’m back STREET DOG by Sarge Lintecum I was brought up to be just a big puppy, Then they trained me to be an attack dog. After my career as an attack dog They said I didn’t fit back into the pack any more, And they wanted to have me put to sleep, So I ran away and became a stray dog, Looking for a kind handout, but expecting a kick. I tried to get a job as a guard dog, But after a few days I wouldn’t even let the owner in. Being a stray dog is no picnic, But being old and a stray is a bitter fate for any dog, Especially since I’m not a dog at all; I’m an American veteran. You could say back then we were homeless, But I just remember the fun. When the worst times leave you fond memories, You know that you’re with the right one. Page 14 Streetvibes �Song of Wounds by Michael Henson I look at you, my friend, and I see nothing but wounds. Just one wound, and you might still be with us. We might tell stories, we might embrace as friends. But no, there are far too many wounds. The blood, broken from its familiar channels, is naked and confused. Muscles, unstrung, will not stand. Nerves throw up their pale hands in surrender, for there are just too many wounds. I press my fingers to the lips of each. I note the contours closely. I see them in their intimate and parasitical relations. I give each one a name: the one that tore at the moorings of the lungs the one that cut at the roots of the liver the one that frayed the ropes of the intestines the one that broke through bone like an axe the one that shattered the beating heart: For today, I see nothing but wounds. Wounds in the alley Wounds in the park Wounds blackened in the asphalt of the beltway Wounds with the marks of the teeth of the wind Wounds in the bellies of small brown children. Wounds sleepless at four in the morning Wounds in the disordered ladders of the cell: Five wounds, and I ponder over them within me. Five wounds, sharp as a hammer Five wounds in the shock of morning Five wounds and there is no escape Five wounds and five curses My friend! My friend! I see nothing today but wounds! Spring by Michael Henson First hints: A red haze among the maples. A great clutter of branches thrown down by a storm. A row of daffodils that raise their baffled heads out of the cold beds of the garden. The light, stretched back by the black fingers of the trees at the horizon, stretched back by the rooftops at the head of the alley, ekes out the lingering days. The winter rains become the spring rains, cold and persistent. The rivers rise to their banks; they darken with silt. They boil coldly in their drive to the Gulf bearing downstream anything loose in their path. Then, a day that ignites green fires at the tips of the sycamores. A day when the earth shimmers with a dim mammalian pulse. After the million deaths of winter, partisan births, clandestine cadres, in tens and twelves, here, and here, and in the hedges. Everything swells. Everything grows more numerous. New hungers arise, some small as the belly of a vole, some neatly small as thought. Some hungers large as a field of wheat. Still others larger than we dare name. Everywhere the hungers assert themselves. They stretch among the root hairs in the compost. They call from the nests tucked in the branches of the cedars. They quiver on the dark floor of every pond. They weep themselves known in the houses of the poor. Berta’s Art Corner Writers! Submit your Poetry to STREETVIBES ­ email your writing to Streetvibes@juno.com Painted Circles on Glass, Cincinnati Streetvibes Page 15 �357-4602 Formed in 1984, The Greater Cincinnati Coalition for the Homeless is a membership organization. Our member groups serve the homeless through emergency shelter, transitional living facilities, permanent housing, medical services, social services, soup kitchens, and mental health/addiction services. The Coalition also consists of individual citizens who want to take an active role in ensuring that Cincinnati is an inclusive community, meeting the needs of all of its citizens. Join the fight to end homelessness; contact the Greater Cincinnati Coalition for the Homeless at (513) 421-7803, 117 East 12th Street Cincinnati, Ohio 45202 SHELTER: Both Anthony House (Youth) SHELTER: Men City Gospel Mission 241-5525 Garden St. House 241-0490 Joseph House (Veterans) 241-2965 St. Francis/St.Joseph House 381-4941 Mt. Airy Center 661-4620 Volunteers of Amer. 381-1954 SHELTERS: Women and Children YWCA Battered Women’s Shelter 872-9259 (Toll Free) 1-888-872-9259 Bethany House 557-2873 Salvation Army 762-5660 Welcome Hse. 859-431-8717 Women’s Crisis Center 859-491-3335 If you need help or would like to help please call one of the Greater Cincinnati Coalition for the Homeless members listed below. OTHER SERVICES: AIDS Volunteers of Cincinnati 421-2437 Appalachian Identity Center 621-5991 Beech Acres 231-6630 Center for Independent Living Options 241-2600 Churches Active in Northside 591-2246 Cincinnati Health Network 961-0600 Community Action Agency 569-1840 Contact Center 381-4242 Emanuel Center 241-2563 TREATMENT: Both N.A. Hopeline 820-2947 A.A. Hotline 351-0422 C.C.A.T. 381-6672 Talbert House 684-7956 Transitions, Inc 859-491-4435 VA Domiciliary 859-559-5011 DIC Live-In Program 721-0643 TREATMENT: Men Charlie’s 3/4 House 784-1853 Prospect House 921-1613 Starting Over 961-2256 TREATMENT: Women First Step Home 961-4663 Full Circle Program 721-0643 HOUSING: CMHA 721-4580 Excel Development 632-7149 Miami Purchase 241-0504 OTR Housing Net. 369-0004 ReSTOC 381-1171 Tender Mercies 721-8666 Tom Geiger House 961-4555 Dana Transitional Bridge Services, Inc 751-9797 Caracole (AIDS) 761-1480 Friars Club 381-5432 Drop Inn Center 721-0643 Haven House 863-8866 Interfaith Hospitality 471-1100 Lighthouse Youth Center (Teens) 961-4080 St. John’s Housing 651-6446 Need Help or Want to Help? MIDDLETOWN/HAMILTON (Butler County) St. Raphaels (Food Bank/Soup Kitchen) 863-3184 Salvation Army 863-1445 Serenity House Day Center 422-8555 Open Door Pantry 868-3276 New Life Baptist Mission (Soup Kitchen) 896-9800 Hope House (Homeless Families/Singles) 423-4673 Freestore/ Foodbank 241-1064 Fransiscan Haircuts 381--0111 Goodwill Industries 771-4800 Coalition for the Homeless 421-7803 Hamilton Co. Mental Health Board 946-8600 Mental Health Access Point 558-8888 Hamilton Co. TB Control 632-7186 Health Rsrc. Center 357-4602 Homeless Mobile Health Van 352-2902 House of Refuge Mission 221-5491 Legal Aid Society 241-9400 Madisonville Ed. & Assis. Center 271-5501 Mary Magdalen House 721-4811 McMicken Dental Clinic 352-6363 Our Daily Bread 621-6364 Peaslee Neighborhood Center 621-5514 Project Connect, Homeless Kids 363-1060 St. Vincent De Paul 562-8841 Travelers Aid 721-7660 United Way 721-7900 VA Homeless 859-572-6226 Women Helping Women 872-9259 10 Years in Publication! Streetvibes Exclusive - Page 1 CityLink ­ “Right or Blight?” BUY FROM BADGED VENDORS ONLY April 2006 STREETVIBES $1 Donation � Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource 2006 Text A resource consisting primarily of words for reading. Examples include books, letters, dissertations, poems, newspapers, articles, archives of mailing lists. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre Text. Original Format The type of object, such as painting, sculpture, paper, photo, and additional data Newspaper Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource April 2006 Subject The topic of the resource Homelessness Description An account of the resource Pg 1: CityLink Offers Opportunities for People Who Want Real Life Change Pg 2: Homeless Empowerment Project Group’s Goal: Housing for All Homeless in 10 Years Pg 3: Homeless News Digest Pg 4: Remembering Cincinnati’s 2001 Civil Unrest Pg 5: Remembering Cincinnati’s 2001 Civil Unrest Continued Pg 6: Peace Village Pg 7: Pontiac, Michigan to Hear Plan for Homeless Homeless Man Attacked in Boston Pg 8: Unrest Continued Pg 9: Vendors Pg 10: Six Months After Katrina: Who Was Left Behind- Then and Now Pg 11: Agencies Mislead the Public on Katrina Pg 12: Streetvibes Vendor Code of Conduct About the Greater Cincinnati Coalition for the Homeless Streetvibes Pg 13: Gunshot Victim Waits 32 Hours for Help Pg 14: Arts & Poetry Pg 15: Arts & Poetry Continued Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Streetvibes Archive Project Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Streetvibes Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Greater Cincinnati Homeless Coalition Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource April 2006 Contributor An entity responsible for making contributions to the resource Georgine Getty Alison Leeuw Monique Little Kelly Carr Chris Dourson John Lavelle Melvin Williams Susan Smith Berta Lambert Jimmy Heath Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource PDF Alison Leeuw Berta Lambert Boston Chris Dourson Cincinnati CityLink Civil Unrest Drop Inn Center Georgine Getty Gunshot Victim Homeless News Digest Jimmy Heath John Lavelle Katrina Kelly Carr Melvin Williams Michigan Minimum Wage Monique Little Peace Village Pontiac Susan Smith https://streetvibesarchive.net/files/original/65539c96124a361c1f640e93cab5ae03.pdf 6fe40478c3d53ff2ec2588bc00a949c0 PDF Text Text April, 2007 STREETVIBES Poor Little Rich Me By Kathy Y. Wilson - Guest Columnist “I just wanna pay my rent. Trying hard to maintain this stasis But I’ve got so many friends Always talkin’ ‘bout I’m gonna make it” —”Demise,” Georgia Anne Muldrow I am right now the poorest I have ever been as an adult. There are two $1 bills on my kitchen table; a faux African, fishshaped dish with about $3 is on my bedroom dresser. My USBank checking account has less than $50 in it and if I do not hand $180 over to Duke in five days my utilities will be disconnected. There are months when there are more bills in my mailbox than there are checks. When I say I am as broke as the Ten Commandments, that’s what I mean; “broke” does not mean cash poor. There are no retirement funds to raid, no secret rainy-day accounts, nothing under the mattress or tucked in a rusted Folger’s can buried in the sideyard. I am 42 years old and sometimes when I am tricked by consumerism into surveying and judging the quality of my life according to my money I grow depressed, fooled into thinking I’ll die in obscurity and abject poverty. Why not me? Other great black women like Zora Neale Hurston and my mother, Gladine Rosetta Hill, died that way: worked to death, exhausted and spent from spending everything on other people. A funny thing is happening on the way to my not-as-poor-as-I-think-I­ am-self. I have community. Comprised mostly of other women, it transcends race. There are non-family folks committed to my well being who understand that for me to thrive they must reach out to me in real ways that count. And in America, that means with money. Let’s be real, cash is sustenance. Sharing it is humane. We refuse to share it as we should in America and this stinginess is how we’re most inhumane. A few weeks ago I borrowed money from two friends. I knew they would lovingly help. Ahoo slid me a $100 check, $70 of which I used to pay half my Verizon bill. Dean loaned me $20 to pay for my insulin prescription. Since last April when I was fired from CityBeat after nearly a dozen years Michelle has diligently paid my monthly $285 COBRA payment for my health insurance. Not 48 hours before this sentence Richard wrote a check for my rent which was two months late. See, community. The existence of community is what sets the stereotypical poor apart from the working, visible and “functioning” poor people like me. The insanely wealthy and those aspiring to them have allowed—engineered, even—the obliteration of the American middle class. There’s rich. There’s poor. And the strangely beautiful aspect of poverty for folks like me is it’s hidden in plain sight. We clean-cut, walking-about, acceptably poor folks don’t pretend to be something we aren’t. We’re unhassled/unjudged because we’re benign. We’re the “good ones.” Still, we’re separate. My outrageously wealthy landlord who owns one entire side of the block he lives on and much of the block where I live will never know that I use rent money to pay Duke Electric, Verizon Wireless, car insurance and to put five to seven dollars gas in my dead mother’s 13-year-old Mercury Sable because he doesn’t even know what StreetVibes is, let alone that poor and homeless people read or have a publication. He doesn’t have access to the realm he knows nothing about; yet, the trappings of my landlord’s world constantly bombard the poor. The very act of panhandling is self- subjugation and self-flagellation no less dehumanizing than prostitution itself. My landlord and I have an unspoken and dysfunctional relationship. He only knows that my rent is always late and yet, he does not evict me. I say this not to gloat but to illustrate just how close to the curb I am. My poverty, my desperation, feels vindicated—no, eased—by this don’t ask/don’t tell tango. I like the way one side does and does not have any idea what the other’s doing; it feels subversive and secret. Strangely, I also like the dichotomy of appearing to have wealth because of my comportment and pride, but still being poor enough to sometimes happily eat Ramen noodles and drink grape Kool-Aid for dinner. Why happily? Because I know that because of my community tomorrow Vinnie will cook a gourmet-caliber meal she’ll share with me and that if, the next day, I’m still hungry I can sit at Linder’s table at 6:00 when she serves her family dinner. I may be jeered from the poverty bleachers by saying that I have a key to turn in a lock that opens a door to my own possessions or that I have a cellular phone plan and utilities. But I am one of the working poor—an unevenly educated black woman with a proven skill set whose unemployment ran out just before Christmas. So now I hustle. Just like the single mothers selling their Ohio Welfare Cards for cash; just like the bootleg cabbies posted in front of every Kroger in poor black and white neighborhoods in this city; just like the couch-surfing dope boys with packs to move. I sling sentences like crack rocks/I keep verbs stuffed in my socks/I got similes two for five: “like” and “as,” nigga/I call on my regulars and peddle my wares/I make my way through Main Street galleries while rich white people stop to stare/editors throw me work like Wilson.... cont. on page 2 The effects of Hurricane Katrina still being felt by Andy Freeze HUD estimates that there are three quarters of a million people homeless every night. But we know that is not true. What HUD does not take into account is that 19 months ago hurricane Katrina forced over one million people into homelessness. I had the opportunity to spend a week down in New Orleans in the beginning of March. If you only spent your time in downtown or the French Quarter you would never know that one of the biggest natural disasters to hit this country occurred just under two years ago. The French Quarter is once again bustling with tourists. The street performers have returned. But if you venture outside of downtown you would have thought you were in a third world country. There are no words to describe what I saw. The best that I can do is to describe it as utter destruction. I remind you that I visited New Orleans nineteen months after the hurricane hit, yet you would have thought it was a month ago. “But if you venture outside of downtown you would have thought you were in a third world country.” While in New Orleans I spent the week with ten other college students learning about the effects the hurricane has had on the Gulf Coast as well as removing furniture and gutting the inside of homes. It was an eye opening experience to say the least. I consider myself to be fairly well informed about the events going on in our country. However, the media has failed to report on the devastation still being felt in New Orleans. Because no one reports on this issue, I assumed that things were getting back Katrina.... cont. on page 6 Greater Cincinnati Coalition for the Homeless �Streetvibes Streetvibes, the Tri­ State’s alternative news source, is a newspaper written by, for, and about the homeless and contains relevant discussions of social justice, and poverty issues. It is published once a month by the Greater Cincinnati Coalition for the Homeless. Becoming a Streetvibes Vendor is a great way for homeless and other low-income people to get back on (or stay on) their feet. Streetvibes Vendors are given an orientation and sign a code of conduct before being given a Streetvibes Vendor badge. All profits go directly to the vendor. The Greater Cincinnati Coalition for the Homeless is a group of shelters, agencies and individuals committed to ending homelessness in Cincinnati through coordinating services, educating the public and grassroots organizing. GCCH Staff Georgine Getty - Executive Director Johm Lavelle - Administrative Coordinator Andy Freeze - Education Coordinator Lynne Ausman - VISTA Matt Cohen - AHA Staff Melvin Williams - Receptionist Linda Pittman - Receptionist Susan Smith - Volunteer Streetvibes Jimmy Heath, Editor, Layout and Design, with Andy Freeze and Georgine Getty Wilson.... cont. from page one addicts hand over crumpled singles/on the 31st I stalk the mailman from my kitchen windows/checking his hand for my check. I have been poor before. I was once 23 summers ago temporarily homeless in Denver with my mother, sister and stepfather. Even then, we knew we had a way out, that there were jobs and an apartment. Still, after the money ran out we moved from a cramped hotel room to a dirty and shabby house owned by Traveler’sAid until that first payday. I’ve yet to go all the way there: tattered-clothes-soup-kitchen-sleeping­ in-a-doorway-panhandling-selling-sex­ for-a-hotel-room-by-the-day-there. I know how poverty and homelessness can sneak up when a job gets yanked away or housing falls through and bills run away with your sanity. I watch my pennies by depriving myself of the luxuries of my former self: books, magazines, CD’s, movies, eating out, new clothes and shoes when the ones I have suit me fine. In short, I’m over unnecessary consumption and I’m weaning myself off excess. Surprisingly, I walk around with the same folded-over $20 bill for weeks without breaking it and when I finally do, that last $10 lasts equally as long. I buy what I need and not to satisfy manic lusts. I eschew the diet of the poor— fast food, soda, candy. Why kill yourself with toxins when the very stress of poverty alone is enough? I’m revealing my solo poverty to show that the postmodern face of the poor isn’t the monolithic one America shows us. I also offer hope. To declare that we do not have to go the way of so many poor people in America; to reassure those living on the verge of emotional and spiritual disintegration that hope and redemption are free and to urge those same people to start right now building community. It’s not easy. Surrounding ourselves with hope and not despair, love and not bitterness, responsibility and not fingerpointing and choosing help instead of dwelling among a barrel of crabs requires the same focus, strength and energy it takes to find and keep a job or to pay bills. It’s hard getting off the streets, I know. We must choose hope and humanity. I do not write this brand-new. I write this having emerged from the depths of isolation, despair, depression and self-doubt, all fuelled by poverty and by being on the brink of disconnection and eviction. That was the winter, though. Now spring replenishes. I can beat poverty back like my mother because, like her, I am resourceful and I am blessed. This spring I’ll be having a sidewalk sale to trim away a lifetime of acquisitions—all the crap I thought I had to have but that now feels like weighty clutter collecting dust. There’s wanderlust, an unromanticized notion of freedom to this type of poverty. The restrictions of it—of knowing precisely how much money how much food, how much work—make life easier because having too much makes me drunk with too many choices. I do not begrudge the wealthy their wealth; neither do I envy it. I really have a great life. I do not dislike myself because I cannot bask in excess. Photographers Jimmy Heath, Berta Lambert, Andy Freeze, Georgine Getty Cover Lower Ninth Ward, New Orleans by Andy Freeze Streetvibes accepts letters, poems, stories, essays, original graphics, and photos. We will give preference to those who are homeless or vendors. Subscriptions to Streetvibes, delivered to your home each month, can be purchased for $25 per year. Address mail to: Streetvibes Greater Cincinnati Coalition for the Homeless (GCCH) 117 East 12th Street Cincinnati, OH 45202 (513) 421-7803 e-mail: streetvibes@juno.com web: http://homeless.cinci.com Page 2 Are legs “calves” spelled like Firecats Review Blue: baby cows? Firecats Review: Springtime for Firecats Firecat Blue: What should we review? Firecat Silver: Warm weather. Firecats Blue and Chameleon: Spring! Silver: Yeah, fun outside activities. Blue: Outside? I don’t understand. Silver: We put chairs – outside – on our balcony. We sit outside. On chairs. On our balcony. Chameleon: That’s an activity? Sitting outside on the West Side? Anti-Cat: Outside activities? It works well with our many windows (referring to our windowless lair). Chameleon: I like springtime because I can wear shorts and show off my sexy calves. Chameleon: Yes. Firecat Beige: I like your baby cows. They’re hairy. Chameleon: Eww. Beige: I like that there’s more daylight so the days are longer and you have more time to fight homelessness. Chameleon: Are you any good holidays in April? Silver: April Fools! Anti-Cat: Anzac Day (Australia & New Zealand). Silver: Youth Empowerment Day in Cincinnati! (April 20th) Beige: Earth Day? Chameleon: Administrative Professionals Day! Who’s excited about Administrative Professionals day? Beige: I want a present. Streetvibes We need to reverse our priorities. Materialism is like sugar. It’s hype at first but it makes you tired when it wears off. I am determined and committed to living poor well. I am surrounded by people who look out for me. Community is the new currency and freedom is the new bling. Spend it. Wear it. I’ll admit sometimes even in this fragile peace I still wake up in the middle of the night to walk the floor, panicked by outstanding money and the outstanding bills outnumbering it; I obsess over whether I’ll be out standing on the sidewalk, my beautiful things acquired during a wildly creative life stacked on the curb waiting for Rumpke and picked over by salvagers. Then, I lull myself back to sleep comforted that panic and anxiety are coconspirators against my progress. I now have a new regard for work; I do it at my own pace according to the ebb and flow of my survival instead of the dictates of a boss who doesn’t see the textures in my talent, only the exploits of my skill and truthtelling. I hold more hope than I have ever had. That’s right. Being poor gives me hope. I am not my things/I am not the double digits of my bank account/I am not my bills/I am not my creditors. I am poor but not a statistic because those government guidelines neither account for my spirit nor align with my possibilities. I am right now the wealthiest I have ever been in my adult life. copyright Kathy Y. Wilson March 12 and 18, 2007. All rights reserved. Ownership reverts back to the author after first publication in Streetvibes. Chameleon: I’m an Administrative Coordinator. Blue: No one is getting a present. Silver: I think we should have pie that day. Blue: That’s a given any day. Chameleon: I like wearing skorts. That’s my favorite springtime activity, NOT. Blue? Blue: The HBO spring series line starts. Big Love! Anti-Cat: I went around with a group of plungers this weekend. Blue: Plungers? Beige: Wait, I’m confused. Oh, they weren’t actual toilet plungers. I’m thoroughly confused. I’ve been confused since I got here. Anti-Cat: (walking out door) Can you put in the last line from Anti-Cat as “I hate Valentine’s Day?” (editor: see February Firecat Review) Beige: After he leaves, put that he hates Valentine’s Day because he’s lonely. Anti-Cat: I hate Valentine’s Day. Beige: (in hushed tone) He’s lonely. �Homeless News Digest Compiled by Jimmy Heath Foundation Reminds Residents, Not All Homeless Are Adults Greenville, SC - -When most people think about the homeless, adults probably come to mind. But, for Lisa Hall, with Anderson District Five, she thinks about students. “As far as being serious it’s very serious. And we have 111 identified this year so far, that’s what we know of,” Hall told WYFF News 4’s Kisha Foster. The district recently received a $10,000 dollar grant from the Abney Foundation. The mission of the foundation is to aid organizations that are operated exclusively for educational, religious, charitable, scientific and literary purposes. The money will be used to continue work with homeless students. Hall added, “My goal is to remove all barriers for children to receive an education. If it’s for them to dress like other students or have school supplies they need.” Students defined as homeless are those living in shelters, hotels, motels, cars, streets, campgrounds, substandard conditions or abandoned. “We are blessed to be back into a home and we thank God and the district,” said Dianne Schultz. In December, Schultz, her daughter and granddaughter were homeless. A fire destroyed their apartment just days after Christmas and they had to stay in hotel for a week. Schults biggest concern was for her granddaughter Heaven McMullen. “We wanted to try to keep Heaven on a normal schedule as possible. Heaven was able to stay in school. She didn’t have to miss a day had clothing and the school district has been a blessing.” DENVER - Denver Mayor John Hickenlooper and Public Works director Bill Vidal this morning unveiled a retired parking meter that will be used to collect coins for the homeless. The Donation Meter Project will collect money for Denver’s Road Home, the 10-year Plan to end homelessness. By dropping a coin in the slot, you don’t get a parking space, but can feel that you’ve contributed to the effort to give help to homeless people. “The Donation Meter demonstrates yet another innovative way in which this community is responding to Denver’s Road Home and our commitment to ending homelessness,” Hickenlooper said. “We are fortunate to live in a city where public officials, including Bill Vidal at the Department of Public Works, are willing to work on a project that will substantially increase public awareness and resources for the homeless in Denver.” “The Donation Meters provide a creative way for everyone, even if they only have a nickel, to help.” There will be 35 refurbished and redesigned parking meters placed at various areas throughout downtown so people can easily donate spare change in the effort to end homelessness. “Denver’s Public Works is delighted to be part of this growing community wide effort to end homelessness in Denver,” Vidal said. “Starting today with 36 meters, citizens will have a new way to donate to an important cause. Recycling our older meters as donation collection sites is an innovative use of retired equipment.” The donation meter program is part of a widespread effort to redirect the money that people use to give to panhandlers, most of whom are not homeless, into efforts that provide meals, job training, substance abuse counseling, housing and other programs for those in need. Businesses and individuals around the metro area “sponsored” all 36 meters for $1,000 each. said that its “snapshot” study based on a three-month period in 2005 showed that two-thirds of the homeless population are men, 16 percent are women, 59 percent are ethnic minorities, 41 percent are in the 31-50 age range and 21 percent are children. It also said that nearly one in five of the adult homeless are military veterans. However, Philip Mangano, executive director of the United States Interagency Council of Homelessness, said that the snapshot survey does not represent the full extent of homelessness across the country, as measured throughout the year. “There is a divergence of opinion among researchers about the number of people who are experiencing homelessness in the course of a year,” Mangano said. “Some say it might be as high as one percent of the US population (three million people); others say it might be as high as two million. NASHVILLE - Charges were dropped against 16 homeless advocates last month. Organizers of the Nashville Homeless Power Project had more than a dozen people gather outside the Metro Courthouse to raise awareness about the struggles of homeless Nashvillians. Demonstrators were arrested when they refused to leave. The Power Project is asking Mayor Bill Purcell to provide money to build 200 units for the homeless. SAN JUAN - Homeless advocates on Monday condemned a video posted on the Internet that showed homeless people in Puerto Rico engaging in degrading acts, such as eating cat food or wearing a G-string, in exchange for money. The 45-minute video depicts 18 different homeless people performing acts for money, but those filming the video and handing over the money are not shown, several nonprofit groups said. One of those filmed vomits off screen after eating a hot pepper. Another is shown running around in a G-string and grabbing his buttocks while music plays in the background. ”Independent of what may be the condition of a homeless person, that does not give anyone the right to violate their rights. ... This brings me a lot of pain and sadness,” said Luz Davila, a former homeless woman who now works in a nonprofit group helping those on the street. It is not clear who made the video. A phone call and e-mail to Teflon Studios, which is listed in the credits of the film, went unanswered. Homeless advocates said the video had been posted on the studio’s Web site, but it did not appear there later Monday. Puerto Rico’s Family Department also denounced the display. ”We repudiate the content, the connotations and the concept of using the homeless for this type of practice,” said Felix Matos, department secretary. In recent years, the Internet site Bumfights.com has shown homeless people fighting one another and engaging in dangerous stunts. The site says its creators are trying to call attention to problems such as poverty and violence. A man in Los Angeles was convicted in July 2006 for beating two homeless men with a baseball bat in August 2005 after watching a “Bumfights” video. WASHINGTON - On any given night 754,000 people across the United States are homeless, according to a new government study on the problem released Wednesday. The Department of Housing and Urban Development, in its first study of the scope of the national homelessness problem in 23 years, Streetvibes Page 3 �This is the second in a Streetvibes series on; Rich or poor, there is only at risk for physical survival; plenty of wounding to go around. he or she has been pushed to the But to add poverty into the mix is margins of a society. to layer another tissue of wounds identify what is the normal Poverty, then, is a wound onto the child. For not only must standard in a particular place at a to the psyche. the child cope with the failures particular time. We It is not the and wounds of her own parents, can calculate the only possible but in poverty, she must cope minimal costs for wound, nor even with a whole new source of maintaining those the most deprivations and exclusions standards and devastating. But it which, in an unconscious design, assign a number to is a wound. This is seem guaranteed to teach her she it and find where a not news, is not to be nurtured, comforted, person stands in particularly to or granted affection to the same relation to that anyone who has extent as others. She looks number. We can been poor. But around, he looks around, and sees therefore identify what this a world full of barriers and practical terms for definition gives us difficulties that are not present measuring poverty is the source of for others and, at the extreme, in time and place the wound. appear to threaten their very Michael Henson and across time A child is existence. and place. born expecting to be accepted, Cast over whatever For poverty is relative in nurtured, and bathed in affection. genetic assets or liabilities this two directions. One is poor in He expects that his cry will be child may have inherited, and relation to those who are heard; she expects that she will over whatever strengths or prosperous and who is not. be fed, warmed, surrounded by failures of the parents he has Therefore, we talk about rich admiration at any time she selected, poverty, which is a (including super-rich and just demands it. In the best of socially constructed force, plain rich), middle-class (upper situations, this is an irrational strikes the child with yet another and lower), working poor, urban expectation, for no one can meet impediment to becoming whole, and rural poor, flat-out poor, and the exorbitant demands of the complicates her life with nearly destitute. All these measure child. But the child is born with insoluble tasks, and confronts the themselves one against another. It these demands anyway and so, child with an insult with which he is possible for an individual to even in the best of situations, the will struggle for the rest of his look up and down the social child is disappointed again and life. scale, with or without such a again. Psychic wounding is a This is a monstrous thing. definition, and say, I am not as primary experience. And we should end it. well off as this one with his It is primarily the task of But even our best efforts mansion (or condo or penthouse the parents or whoever may be in will not end it soon. And we are or hacienda), but I am much the role of a parent to see that far, very far, from making even a better off than this person down this child’s wounds are minimal half-hearted effort as a society. the road in his tenement (or and that they are transformed into But say, just to dream, that, by shack or patchwork tent). It is strengths. How else do we grow some miracle, we were to abolish also possible, by these measures, but by transforming pain into poverty with the next presidential for a sociologist or economist to livable wisdom? term (not that anyone is even look up and down the social scale Parents are either well suggesting we try), the wounds of and place people in their prepared for these tasks, or they poverty would not leave. Many millions, thousands, and hundreds are not. And in the preparation people have had the necessary on a scale of poverty, prosperity, for this task, wealth, prosperity, combination of luck, opportunity, or wealth. or poverty seems to make little and resilience to emerge from But they can also help us difference. I have known many poverty. But that does not mean understand something of the parents who came out of or they were not wounded by their particular pains and individual remained in poverty who had a poverty. And these wounds will struggles of a person in poverty. wonderful earthiness and not leave even though we have What speaks to that concern in humanity and who grow not found a way to list them in these definitions is not just a wonderfully resourceful and the Diagnostic and Statistical totaling of the material assets humane children. And of course, I Manual. Is it any wonder that the available to a person, but how have seen many cases of spoiled person wounded by poverty looks well (or how poorly) the assets and confused suburbanites raising to something to ease the pain? (or lack of assets) of that spoiled and confused children. To be continued. individual human person allow We all know this story. him or her to participate in the Research on Prescribtion Opiate Dependence “the normal patterns and Are you an adult activities” of a particular society. and concerned with your use of prescribtion opiates? Do One is poor, not simply because you want treatment for prescribtion opiate dependence? she does not have enough to eat East Indiana Treatment Center is conducting a research study of or has trouble paying the rent, but because she is excluded from full medication and behavioral interventions to treat prescribtion opiate dependence. Eligible participants will receive free buprenorphine, participation in society. Poverty nalozone (Suboxone) treatment. All information will be kept means an inability to meet the confidential. Compensation will be expectations of one’s provided for time and travel. community, to do all the things The research clinic is coonveniently located at that are understood to be a EITC in Lawrenceburg, IN. For more information normal part of life in a particular please contact 812-537-1668. society. The poor person is not Poverty and Addiction by Michael Henson No one disputes that the victims of absolute poverty are poor. When we see the homeless man on a heat grate or a displaced child in a documentary and know that these people have nothing to keep them from starvation or exposure from one day to the next, we can be sure these people are poor by any definition. Some may dispute the numbers or deny that they exist in our particular place. Or they may dispute who is to blame. They may wish to see them better hidden. They may wish them jailed. They may even wish them dead. (Think of the murdered children of Rio). They may institute policies that move them on, to become someone else’s problem. But no one disputes their poverty or wonders whether they meet a federal guideline for poverty. But above that level, there is a great deal of confusion as to what constitutes poverty. For, beyond the level of minimal survival, poverty is a matter of the relationship of an individual, a family, or a caste within a broader society. Poverty is only partly defined by what person does or does not own. It is only partly defined by a person’s distance from the desperation of minimal survival, although these concerns are important. Poverty is also primarily defined by how a person is able to function within a particular society. The late Michael Harrington’s book, The New American Poverty, quotes from a United Nations document, “Those individuals and families can be considered poor whose resources are so small that they find themselves excluded from the mode of life, the normal patterns and activities of the countries in which they live.” There are other definitions around, but they say, I think, virtually the same thing. Such definitions are the basis for the federal poverty guidelines in the united States, for such a line is set by a determination of how much in cash or assets a person requires to meet these needs for living something like the “normal patterns and activities” of life in one’s particular place. They tell us the minimal standards not only for physical survival, but social needs as well. These definitions have the merit of being concrete. We can Page 4 Streetvibes �prohibited from ticketing people who sleep on the city’s public sidewalks and doorways at night as part of the settlement of a lawsuit brought by homeless advocates. Under a new regulation, people are free to sleep on city property from 9 p.m. to 6 a.m. unless they are committing a crime, such as being drunk or a public nuisance. The change does not cover sleeping on private property (Steele, San Diego Union-Tribune, 2/21). California: Senator to Introduce Bill in Response to ‘Homeless Dumping’ State Sen. Gil Cedillo (D) is expected to introduce legislation that would make it a misdemeanor for any hospital facility or worker to transport patients anywhere other than their residences without their informed consent. Those who disobey the regulation would face up to two years in jail and a fine of up to $1,000. The legislation coincides with investigations homeless patients by hospitals on L.A.’s Skid Row (Blood, AP/ Contra Costa Times, 2/22). Optimus Health Care, which serves the homeless, poor and immigrant populations in Stamford, Conn., is hiring a Stamford Health Department HIV prevention specialist on its Homeless Outreach Team to provide HIV testing at area homeless shelters and soup kitchens. The arrangement was funded by a $45,000 Optimus Health grant that will pay for the HIV specialist to work with the outreach team 30 hours each week (Pinto, Stamford Times, 2/26). The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development awarded several agencies in Lee County, Fla., $2 million over the next year to provide housing and supportive services to homeless families and individuals. County officials said the grants will go to help homeless individuals and families find emergency shelter, transitional housing and permanent homes (Southwest Florida News-Press, 2/21). The federal government has renewed more than $1.5 million in funding for 16 programs for the homeless in Acadiana, La. The grant recipients said the money will go to fund such services as job training, health care, substance abuse treatment and housing (KATC3 News, 2/26). Homeless advocates, who spent the night camped in tents and cardboard boxes outside the Nevada Legislature, recently testified before a House committee in support of legislation that would dispense $20 million in state funds for homeless services. The amount is more than double the $9 million that was appropriated in 2005 (Mullin, AP/Las Vegas Sun, 2/19). The 1,001-bed Camp LaGuardia, New York City’s largest homeless shelter, is about to close after 73 years. City officials said the facility, s California: Advocates Win ‘Homeless t Free Zones’ Lawsui San Diego officials are into alleged dumping of be and Australia. Almost 500 homeless individuals were able to travel and compete in the Homeless World Cup. Teams are made up of eight players (all male, all female or mixed): four players on the field at one time and four substitutes. Russia won the 2006 Homeless World Cup: past winners include Italy and Austria. The 2006 American team was selected from a three day tournament in Charlotte, North Carolina. Players came from all over the USA including New York, Pennsylvania, Georgia, Virginia, Washington D.C., North Carolina, and Texas. In 2003, the American team ranked ninth – their highest rank in the Homeless World Cup. In 2005, the American team was awarded the Fair Play Award. The 2007 Homeless World Cup will be July 29 ­ August 4, 2007 in Copenhagen, Denmark. For more information about the Homeless World Cup visit: www.homelessworldcup.org tvi Following the 2005 Edinburgh Homeless World Cup, research revealed that 94% of the players had gained a renewed motivation for life. In addition, 77% of the participants believe that the event had changed their lives. Players are able to regain some control over their lives while having fun. Participating on a team creates a sense of belonging and players are able to build self-esteem with the support of coaches and teammates. Players reported that following the Homeless World Cup that they were able to end their drug or alcohol addictions and access employment, housing, and educational opportunities. Overall, the Homeless World Cup is not only a fun event in which homeless individuals participate, but it is an inspiring and empowering tool. In the Cape Town 2006 Homeless World Cup, fortyeight teams from all across the globe participated, including teams from North and South America, Africa, Europe, Asia, ee by Lynne Ausman The World Cup is probably the most popular sporting event in the world. Every four years, millions of people tune in to watch their national soccer teams compete to be the best team in the world. Thousands flock to the games and pay hundreds of dollars to see their favorite teams and players. However, there is another World Cup. It is smaller and the games do not draw in millions of fans, but the Homeless World Cup is a life changing and inspiring event for some. The idea for the Homeless World Cup started in 2001 following the International Network of Street Papers Conference. The first Homeless World Cup was in Graz, Austria, in 2003, followed by Gothenburg, Sweden in 2004. Edinburgh, Scotland, hosted the 2005 cup and Cape Town, South Africa hosted the 2006 cup. This year (2007), the Cup will be in Copenhagen, Denmark, followed by Melbourne, Australia in 2008. Str Homeless World Cup Support Your Vendor ALMOST 30 YEARS SERVING THE NEIGHBORHOOD Empowering our neighborhood children through peace, art and education Peaslee Neighborhood Center 215 East 14th Street Over-the-Rhine Cincinnati, Ohio 45202 (513) 621-5514 surrounded by farms and trees on a 300-acre parcel 70 miles away in Chester, N.Y., is too far from jobs and medical and other services in the city. They also said the city wants to move away from temporary shelters to subsidized housing with services for the city’s 35,000 homeless men and women. The shelter opened in 1934 on the site of a women’s prison and was expanded greatly in the 1980s with the growth of New York’s homeless population (Hill, Redding Record Searchlight, 2/27). The federal government has awarded 23 Portland, Ore.­ area homeless programs nearly $5.7 million in renewal funding. The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development also has earmarked more than $538,000 for a new Transition Projects program to provide permanent housing with services for disabled, chronically homeless adults and youths (Green, Oregonian, 2/21). Streetvibes exists as a forum for the expression of the views and opinions of our readers and supporters. The opinions expressed herein are not necessarily those of the Streetvibes staff or the Greater Cincinnati Coalition for the Homeless Streetvibes Page 5 �Katrina from page one...... to “normal” and that people had begun to return to their homes. I thought we would be working on building homes, not tearing them down. I thought we would be painting, or laying tile, or finishing walls. Nope. There are so many homes down there that have not been touched in the past 19 months. It is a tragedy that we are still removing personal items form people’s homes. At first the volunteers and donations flew into the Gulf Coast. But the hurricane is no longer on the forefront of our minds. Nor is it on the mind of our government. Our government has decided that rebuilding Iraq and Afghanistan are more important than rebuilding parts of our own country. Our government and many of our American companies are pouring billions and billions of “He told stories of searching homes after the waters had receded to look for bodies.” dollars into rebuilding the Middle East, yet many Americans can not get help from their own government. While my group was gutting the inside of a house in the Lower Ninth Ward, a gentleman pulled up and got out to speak with us. He worked for the government and had responded to Katrina three days after the hurricane made landfall. For the next eight months we worked as a logistics organizer for the government Volunteers remove rug from house in Lower 9th Ward to oversee the coordination of the many different operations. He told us that when he first got to New Orleans he did helicopter rescues. He explained that it was a scary experience because people would get so upset that they were not being rescued that they began to shoot at the helicopters. He told stories of searching homes after the waters had receded to look for bodies. He described that as the waters rose, people moved to their attics to take cover. It was devastating to see so many bodies stuck in the attics because people could not get out. We had the opportunity to hear from a home owner. His house was the only one still on its foundation. Houses from two streets down landed behind his. Everything around him was gone. Tombs and graves from more than 50 miles away were now in the town. His house had nothing removed from it and he was Writers and Artists! Donate your Writing, Poetry And Art to STREETVIBES ­ Streetvibes@juno.com Page 6 still going through the items he had and cataloging it. Each person we encountered had a different story. Each person had hopes and dreams to move back to their “home.” Yet it has becoming increasingly harder to get help. In St. Bernard Parish alone less than a quarter of the population has been able to return. Only 50% of Orleans Parish has returned. People want to return because it’s their home, but are unable to because there is not enough help. During the first week of March while we were in New Orleans, we ran into many other college students down along the gulf coast offering their help. If the government put the resources its putting into rebuilding the Middle East into rebuilding the Gulf Coast region, the people of our nation that need help would be getting it. Instead we choose to overlook those who have been affected by the hurricane because they are poor and are now homeless. Let’s hope that the people of our country realize that there is a lot of work to be done and continue to pay attention to one of the worst natural disasters this country has seen. Markings left by search and rescue workers, weeks after Katrina hit. SODUKO Puzzle Fill in numbers so that each column, each row, and each of the nine 3x3 boxes contains the digits 1 to 9. There is only one solution! The ANSWER is on Page 10 Streetvibes �My experiences in Baltimore by Jacki Sprinkle Since my arrival at Xavier, I have had service opportunities galore, either through a club, as part of a class requirement, or some other extracurricular program offered here. The multitude of service programs offered at Xavier has become my favorite aspect of this school, and one which I feel truly separates it from many other universities. Therefore, when I learned about the Alternative Breaks program I was especially excited to get involved. Alternative Breaks is a service learning organization dedicated to giving students hands-on opportunities with service work during their Spring and Summer breaks. This year, the group in which I participated traveled to Baltimore, where we learned about homelessness and hunger, and were able to work directly with people affected by this issue in their daily lives. We began our service on the morning of Monday, March 5th, at a soup kitchen in downtown Baltimore called Our Daily Bread. ODB is open every day of the year, and serves lunch from 10:30-12:30 to anywhere from 500-900 guests daily. One characteristic of this kitchen which distinguished it from many others is that when guests come in, they sit down and are served instead of standing in a line. It is as if they are at a restaurant; I would venture to say, though, that the service at Our Daily Bread is much better than that of most restaurants. Our group members occupied a myriad of positions during our service there: serving tea, carrying a basket of assorted bread to distribute, cleaning tables, running meals from the kitchen to the server, and washing pots and pans. After we finished cleaning up after the meal, we traveled back to our place of residency for the week, Sarah’s House. This group of buildings functions as a homeless shelter and transitional housing unit for families and individuals who are struggling financially. However, much more than housing is afforded to the residents at Sarah’s House. A daycare is offered for working parents, as well as after-school program where kids are assisted with homework. There is a tutoring program offered every night, and even a yoga class once a week. In talking with several of the mothers living there, I learned that even though the rules at Sarah’s House were strict, they felt that the services provided were invaluable to the families’ quality of life. We continued our service at Our Daily Bread and Sarah’s House on Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday. On Thursday, however, we changed our routine by spending a day at Gallagher Services, a facility for people with developmental disabilities. I participated in an art therapy class with a few of these individuals, and discovered, to my dismay, that I apparently held some stereotypes about people with developmental disabilities. After working with some of the residents I realized just how similar we all are to one another, no matter what disability we may have. Later that night we ventured to the Hispanic Apostolate of Baltimore, where we helped to tutor several individuals in their English speaking skills. This ended up being one of my favorite parts of the trip! The service opportunities during this trip were phenomenal; I met so many interesting people and was able to break a lot of stereotypes that I did not even know I held. However, just as important as the service, for me, were the conversations that I shared with other members of the group, as well as the nightly reflections that we had together. I had a fantastic time getting to know all of these wonderful people, but more importantly, I learned something from each and every one of them. This trip has been truly eye-opening in so many ways. I have become even more aware of the severity of homelessness and hunger in the United States, but I also learned more about so many wonderful organizations that fight to solve this issue. As a social work major, this trip was priceless in that it reassured me that I am studying something about which I am truly passionate. It is strange to think how much one week can change your life. However, in my short time in Baltimore, I gained an even greater appreciation of the opportunities I have been afforded, and a stronger drive to help others who have not had these opportunities. FROM THE FRONT DESK Hello. I guess our longawaited Spring has arrived. That means more people are out and coming into the Coalition for their morning coffee break. We are trying to recruit donations for coffee supplies which we desperately need. Our poor old coffee pot is on its last legs because it is used so much. A new 12-cup coffee pot would be nice. We always have a need for cans of coffee, sugar (packs or regular), creamer (packs or regular) and medium Styrofoam cups. Any inexpensive brand will do. The individuals I serve are not Starbucks people. We have to totally rely on the kindness and goodness of people like you to provide this coffee service, since we are a non-profit organization and do not have the funding for this extra service. The volunteer who brings donated goodies from Panera Bread to us every week, Susan Smith, and I try to donate supplies whenever we can. But we sure can use some help. You may either donate the products themselves or drop them off Monday through Friday between 9 a.m. and 5 p;.m. at 117 East 12th Street, or send a check to GCCH and mark it for coffee supplies. Thank you very much. Linda Pittman, GCCH Receptionist Hey, College and High School Students! Interested in Serving Others? Want to Change the World? —Alternative Breaks —Homeless Curriculum —Arrange an Awareness Event on Campus —Visit from our Speaker’s Bureau Contact Andy Freeze, Education Coordinator, Homeless Coalition, to learn more 421-7803. ext. 14 Streetvibes Page 7 �Mother’s Day is May 13th. Whether she is a mother, a grandmother, an aunt, a wife, or a sister, Mother’s Day is our chance to show that special woman in our life how much she means to us. Mother’s Day is also a chance to honor the spirit of mothering. Mothers are there to make sure we are clothed, clean, fed, safe, and warm. They are there to tuck us in and kiss away the tears. They are there to read to us, to listen, and to steer us down the right path. The picture above was drawn by 9 year old Asherah, one of many participants in a statewide Mother’s Day card contest for young people. Asherah won the contest because of her touching ability to capture the sprit of support, love and family. Asherah was a resident of a local shelter at the time she drew this picture of her family. Her family is one of 5,000 in Cincinnati who will experience homelessness this year. Nationally, 3.5 million people experience homelessness over the course of a year. Homeless families make up over 40% of that population. This year in Cincinnati alone, over 8,000 children will experience homelessness with their mothers. The Greater Cincinnati Coalition for the Homeless has been working for 23 years to eradicate homelessness in Cincinnati. We firmly believe that by coming together as a community, we can reach this goal. We need your help to erase homelessness from childhood memories. This year, truly honor the mothers in your life by making a special donation in their honor. We will send Asherah’s Mother’s Day card to the honoree before Mother’s Day, along with a notification that a donation has been made in their name. What better way to appreciate the woman who raised you than by helping other women raise themselves and their children out of homelessness? ----------------------------------------------------------------------------By sending this completed form along with your minimum donation of $10, Asherah’s Mother’s Day card will be sent to the person you designate below. The card will inform the recipient that a donation has been made in her name to the Greater Cincinnati Coalition for the Homeless. Your name, address, and phone number ___________________________________________________________________________________________________ Name and address of the person to whom we should send the card ___________________________________________________________________________________________________ Who should the donation be placed in honor of/in memory of? Who should we say the card is from? ___________________________________________________________________________________________________ If you would like the card sent to an additional person, please indicate on another sheet of paper the same information as above. Send this form along with your donation in the enclosed envelope to: The Greater Cincinnati Coalition for the Homeless, 117 East 12th Street, Cincinnati, OH 45202 This Mother’s Day, how will you show your mother that you really care? Page 8 Streetvibes �Venice on Vine: Pizzas and Hoagies 1301 Vine Street Open 11-7 Monday- Friday. West End Catering: lunch and dinner catering services for local organizations and businesses. 221-7020. COUPON Venice on Vine 1301 Vine Street Buy one get one free. Buy any hoagie, small or medium pizza or salad, get a second of same or lower value free. One coupon/customer. Offer good through April 30, 2007. Power… Inspiration… Progress... Meaningful Employment... A Living Wage Brenda Green’s “French Villa” Room New Cincinnati Health Van Visits Shelters by Georgine Getty On March 20, at a special reception hosted by Impact 100 at the Wyoming Fine Arts Center, the board and staff of the Cincinnati Health Network got their first glimpse of the brand new Mobile Medical Van. The Mobile Medical Van of the Cincinnati Healthcare for the Homeless program is staffed by three physicians, Dr. Susan Montauk, Dr. Bob Donovan and Dr. Nancy Elder, one family nurse practitioner, Brenda Greene, and a variety of medical students and residents who use the training they receive on the van to hone their skills and learn the importance of providing care to all people. Currently, the van visits a number of local shelters; the Drop Inn Center, Mr. Airy Shelter, Tender Mercies, Anna Louise Inn, Volunteers of America, First Step Home, the YWCA, and Interfaith Hospitality Network. Care is provided for men, women and children, with adult men making up the largest portion of patients. Acute care is provided for short-term problems (like infections, pain, and injuries) chronic care for long-term problems (like diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease) and some mental health care (depression, anxiety, drug and alcohol abuse). In addition, there is a focus on preventive care, including immunizations, pap smears, blood pressure and cholesterol screening, TB testing, HIV testing, infectious disease testing, and referrals for mammography screenings. The mobility of the van is what makes it unique. Often, homeless individuals are left without healthcare, forced to wait until problem becomes life-threatening enough to justify a visit to the emergency room. The Mobile Medical Van parks outside of the shelters and offers door-to-door no wait services to the clients inside. In addition, clients praise the warm and understanding staff who serve them capably without passing judgment. The van has been in operation since 1992, but the old van had seen better days, spending more days in the shop in 2006, than it did on the streets due to an aging engine, generator and a host of mechanical problems. But all that has changed. In October, 2006, Impact 100 a local non profit organization, made a donation of $110,000 towards the purchase of a new Medical Van. Impact 100 is a group comprised of women who each donate $1,000 a year, pooling their money so that they can make donations on a large scale to better the community. Impact 100 gives two grants each year and this year’s gifts went to the Cincinnati Health Network for the purchase of the new van and to the Wyoming Fine Arts Center’s Touchstone Project which provides stringed instruments to at risk elementary students. Armor was then contracted to construct the van. Armor is the company that created the McMicken Dental Van and the Jewish Hospital Mammography van. The van was designed by the health professionals who will use it and contains several features added for the comfort of the clients and the easy flow of movement throughout the small space. These details range from the nice, such as the radio and ornate doorknobs, to the necessities like the two exam tables, the refrigerator for storing medications, the easy to clean vinyl floors and the filing space for client records. Brenda Green, Bob Donovan and Nancy Elder who will staff the van, eagerly rushed from room to room in the new van, talking about what would go where. “This is my room, the French villa!” proclaimed Green, laughing as she walked into the exam room decorated with flowered wallpaper. “I can’t believe this. This is really great,” Green concluded. “It is so wonderful. It is of the quality that our patients deserve. We can store more things and it’s so much easier for our patients to get in and out of,” added Dr. Elder. Kate Bennett, director of the Cincinnati Health Network is excited to see the van up and running. “It’s so rare that homeless people get something that is new, not a hand-me-down from somewhere else,” she said. After the completion of the van’s exterior paint and the ironing out of a few details, the van should be up and running on the streets of Cincinnati in early April, treating nearly 2000 patients at over 8000 visits each year. The doctors, nurses and staff of the van are eager to get back to work on their new van. Said Dr. Donovan, “It is exactly what taking care of them (homeless clients) should be. It’s what the people we serve deserve.” Goodbye, Cicadas! Dr.’s Donovan and Elder and CHN board member Kay Atkins enjoy the new van. Streetvibes Page 9 �72 Hours (Real Change News, USA) by Rosette Royale SEATLE - Usually, Michael Brooks would have taken the bus home. But on the evening of Feb. 5, he decided to walk. After all, the 62 year old reasoned, the exercise would do him good. Stepping out of Seattle Central Community College (SCCC), where he’d just finished up in the Computer Center, he took a gander at his watch. 9:35 p.m. And under a nighttime sky blanketed by clouds, he began his journey to Madison Valley. Brooks headed north on Broadway. When he got to Denny, he turned right, traveling east. As he ventured homeward, he passed Cal Anderson Park “As I proceeded to walk,” says Brooks, “[a] police officer shined his flashlight on me, and he asked me stop.” He says the officer requested identification; Brooks handed it over. Then, he says, the officer spoke into the microphone attached to his shoulder strap, saying something to the effect of, “I think we have a suspect here.” Asked by a number of officers where he was coming from, Brooks says he told them SCCC. Then he says he heard one officer say they wanted to bring the victim by. That’s when Brooks, a Black man who’s called Seattle home since 1980, says he began to get worried. Soon afterwards, a squad car pulled up. Brooks says he couldn’t see through the glass, but heard a female voice say, “Affirmative.” Brooks says after that he was handcuffed. When he asked what the crime was, he says he was shocked to hear the officer’s response: “Attempted rape and assault.” He was read his rights, he says. Then he was placed in the back of a squad car and driven to the East Precinct, where he was held for an hour and a half. From there, he was taken to King County Jail. Given scrubs to wear, Brooks says he visited a nurse, and after having his blood pressure taken and responding to a few of her questions, he was placed - for no reason he can determine - on suicide watch. The next afternoon, in court at a first appearance, a judge, upon examining a police report determines whether there’s probable cause in an alleged charge - bond was set for $25,000. Unable to raise the funds (Brooks works as a dishwasher at Elysian Fields in SoDo, bringing home $9 an hour), he was left to share a cell with close to 20 others, where he remained, until he was eventually released on Feb. 8. No charges were filed at the time. All told, from the moment Brooks was picked up to the moment he was set free, he’d been held for just shy of 72 hours. That was over a month ago. But for Brooks, the humiliation and confusion surrounding those three days remains fresh. He says he’s got questions for the police. “I want to know why I was arrested, and why I had to stay in there so long,” says Brooks. “And why I was just dropped off in the system.” To help ferret out answers, Brooks has obtained pro bono legal assistance from Sunil Abraham, staff attorney at the Racial Disparity Project, which sits within the Defender Association. Abraham says that they’ve tried to obtain a copy of the incident report from the police in order to view their perspective. But they were informed, says Abraham, with the case still being open, that the only way to release the report is for Brooks’ legal counsel to initiate a discovery process. But such an undertaking, counters Abraham, represents a Catch-22 as Brooks would have to be charged with a crime in order for the discovery process to be set in motion. “It’s not clear what it’s going to take [to obtain the report],” says Abraham, who adds that Brooks has written to the police specifically requesting parts of the report that pertain directly to him. A media relations officer for the SPD says police investigators have sent the case across the street, to the prosecutor’s office. Senior deputy prosecuting attorney Dan Donohoe acknowledges his office has received the case and that it’s under review. As there’s still some follow-up investigation going on, Donohoe says, as of March 20th, that no decision has been made as to whether charges will be filed. Abraham says that even though Brooks was told he was not being charged at the time, he wonders what will happen if Brooks, at any time in the future, is arrested again. Will the arrest be expunged from his record, or, asks Abraham, “Is this incident going to come back to haunt him?” Haunting Brooks now are his feelings over how he was treated during those three days from arrest to The Verdict is in. Streetvibes ROCKS! s ibe v t ee Str Page 10 Streetvibes Answers To Soduko Puzzle on Page 6 release. He says that when he was being driven to the East Precinct ­ during which time Brooks says an officer commented that he had a “squeaky clean record” - he suggested to the officers they take him to SCCC, to have someone in the computer center verify he’d just been there. “But that never happened,” says Brooks. Even with all his concerns, including the monetary strain produced by two days’ lost wages, Brooks says he wants people to know about what happened to him, so that people are aware how race played a part in his arrest. “I want people to know,” says Brooks, “that innocent Black men and AfricanAmerican men in the community are being stopped for nothing and just being taken off to jail.” Seattle police picked up but never charged Michael Brooks, 62, who spent three days in the King County Jail on the basis, he says, of his race. Quotes Individuals have international duties which transcend the national obligations of obedience... therefore [individuals] have the duty to violate domestic laws to prevent crimes against peace and humanity from occurring.” - Nürnberg International Military Tribunal “One of the penalties for refusing to participate in politics is that you end up being governed by your inferiors.” - Plato “They that can give up essential liberty to obtain a little temporary safety deserve neither safety nor liberty.” - Ben Franklin “First they ignore you, then they laugh at you, then they fight you, then you win.” - Mahatma Gandhi (1869-1948) �Federal Minimum Wage Increase Gains Momentum by David Lohr The November elections were a resounding success for advocates of increasing the minimum wage nationwide, with six states passing ballot measures for a wage hike and Democrats taking control of Congress. Citizens in Arizona, Colorado, Missouri, Montana, Nevada and Ohio voted to raise their states’ wages above the federal minimum of $5.15 per hour set in 1997, with annual increases tied to inflation. Established by the Fair Labor Standards Act of 1938, the federal minimum wage has not been raised in nearly a decade, the longest period without an increase since its inception. Adjusted for inflation, the rate is at its lowest since 1955, and its purchasing power has decreased 20% in the last 10 years, according to the Economic Policy Institute (EPI). In fact, an employee working 40 hours per week year-round would earn just $10,712 at the current rate; the federal poverty threshold for a family of four is $19,157. Still, only 28 states plus the District of Columbia will have minimum wages over the federal level in 2007. With voter opinion surging in favor of the changes, Congressional Democrats want to raise the federal minimum wage to $7.25 per hour over the next two years. Congressman-elect Keith Ellison (DMinn.) told the Minnesota Daily in November that a wage increase should not even be a debate because it goes to the core of our values. “In America, there is a sort of social contract that says if you work hard and play by the rules, you can get ahead,” Ellison said. “Raising the minimum wage makes sense.” According to the Economic Policy Institute, a nonpartisan, nonprofit think tank in Washington, D.C., a raise to $7.25 would have a tremendous impact on “disadvantaged” workers, the segment of the population who needs it the most. The institute’s research shows that the benefits of the increase help the poorest segment of the working class the most. While the households in the bottom one-fifth of wage earnings only make up 5% of national income, 38% of the minimum wage increase benefits would go to these workers. Supporters of the increase argue that, while it is a step in the right direction, much more needs to be done to bolster the low-income American worker. The Association of Community Organizations for Reform Cincinnati Youth Empowerment Program Gets Proclamation conversation with a request From Mayor minute that Mayor Mallory proclaim April by Lynne Ausman Cincinnati Youth Empowerment Program (YEP) has been meeting on a regular basis. At the last Mayor’s Night In, homeless youth and advocates spoke with Mayor Mallory about youth homelessness in Cincinnati. The youth ended the five 20, 2007 as “Youth Empowerment Day.” Mayor Mallory gladly accepted this request. The proclamation states: Be It Proclaimed: Whereas, between 30 and 35 percent of all homeless Now (ACORN), the nation’s largest community organization of low- and moderate-income families, organizes campaigns nationwide lobbying for higher minimum and living wages. “On November 7th, we did the job that Congress refused to do by taking a pay raise to the people,” ACORN President Maude Hurd said. “We want elected officials at all levels to pay attention to the mandate that voters laid down: hard working families deserve a better deal—that should be the first order of business.” Small business owners, however, are not happy with the changes. According to the National Federation of Independent Business (NFIB), raising the minimum wage will result in job losses as small businesses, responsible for two-thirds of the new jobs created nationwide, struggle to absorb the increased labor costs. Randel K. Johnson, U.S. Chamber of Commerce vice president for labor, immigration and employee benefits agrees. “Small businesses cannot simply wave a magic wand to create more revenue when lawmakers pass these types of bills,” Johnson said. “It is these businesses, the backbone of our economy, which will be hurt the most by this proposal.” According to David Neumark, senior fellow at the Public Policy Institute of California, an increased minimum wage would act as a tax of sorts on the use of unskilled workers, so employers who do not want to pay unskilled workers more than current wages would simply replace them with more qualified individuals. “Policies that encourage employers to hire low-skilled workers, that encourage work and most importantly that raise skill levels, need to be considered as essential components of the policy mix,” he said. While being forced to pay a higher wage may cause employers to be more selective in their hiring, other leading scholar’s dispute arguments that increased wages will lead to a decrease in jobs. In October, 650 leading economists, including five Nobel Prize winners, released a statement through the Economic Policy Institute in support of the proposed federal increase. “[T]he minimum wage helps to equalize the imbalance in bargaining power that low-wage workers face in the labor market …,” they wrote. “While controversy about the precise employment effects of the minimum wage continues, research has shown that most of the beneficiaries are adults, most are female, and the vast majority is members of low-income families.” Though there is research to support both sides of the minimum wage debate, if November’s election is any indication, wages will likely continue to rise nationwide as the movement gains public support. individuals in Cincinnati are youth between the ages of zero and twenty-four; and, Whereas, Cincinnati’s youth who experience homelessness are among the most vulnerable of becoming homeless adults and empowering these youth will greatly reduce this vulnerability; and, Whereas, Cincinnati Youth Empowerment Program will enable homeless youth to be their own self-advocates and develop leadership and teamwork skills; and, Whereas, the City has an enhanced image because of their acknowledgement, understanding, and concern of the barriers which homeless youth face and the City has given its support for the Cincinnati Youth Empowerment Program; and, Whereas, the youth involved with the Cincinnati Youth Empowerment Program have demonstrated a passion and a desire to help each other overcome homelessness through advocacy and community service; and, Whereas, the Cincinnati Youth Empowerment Program members also have a desire to make Cincinnati a safer, better community for all its citizens, but especially youth citizens; and, Whereas, today April 20, 2007, the Cincinnati Youth Empowerment Program will be hosting a peaceful rally to inform the public about youth who experience homelessness and poverty. Now, Therefore, I, Mark Mallory, Mayor of the City of Cincinnati do hereby proclaim April, 20, 2007 as “Youth Empowerment Day” in Cincinnati. IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand and caused this seal of the City of Cincinnati to be affixed this fourteenth day of March in the year Two Thousand and Seven. Streetvibes Cincinnati YEP meeting is every other Thursday at 5:30pm at Elementz. Elementz is on the corner of Liberty and Central Parkway. All youth are welcome to attend our next meeting on April 12, 2007. Check out the Cincinnati YEP Myspace page at: www.myspace.com/ youth_empowerment_program, Page 11 �Streetvibes Vendor Code of Conduct All Vendors Sign and Agree to a Code of Conduct Report Any Violations to GCCH - 421-7803 1. Streetvibes will be distributed for a $1 voluntary donation. If a customer donates more than $1 for a paper, vendors are allowed to keep that donation. However, vendors must never ask for more than $1 when selling Streetvibes. 2. Each paper purchased from the Greater Cincinnati Coalition for the Homeless (GCCH) costs 25 cents. Papers will not be given out on credit. Old papers can not be traded in for new papers. 3. Streetvibes may only be purchased from GCCH. Never buy papers from, or sell papers to other vendors. 4. Vendors must not panhandle or sell other items at the same time they are selling Streetvibes. 5. Vendors must treat all other vendors, customers, and GCCH personnel with respect. 6. Vendors must not sell Streetvibes while under the influence. 7. Vendors must not give a “hard sell” or intimidate anyone into purchasing Streetvibes. This includes following customers or continuing to solicit sales after customers have said no. Vendors must also never sell Streetvibes door-to-door. 8. Vendors must not deceive customers while selling Streetvibes. Vendors must be honest in stating that all profits go to the individual vendor. Vendors must not tell customers that the money they receive will go to GCCH or any other organization or charity. Also, vendors must not say that they are collecting for “the homeless” in general. 9. Vendors must not sell papers without their badge. Vendors must present their badge when purchasing papers from GCCH. Lost badges cost $5.00 to replace. Broken or worn badges will be replaced for free, but only if the old badge is returned to GCCH. 10. Streetvibes vendor meetings are held on the first weekday of the month at 1pm. The month’s paper will be released at this meeting. If a vendor cannot attend the meeting, he or she should let us know in advance. If a vendor does not call in advance and does not show up, that vendor will not be allowed to purchase papers on the day of the meeting or the following day. Five free papers will be given to those who do attend. 11. Failure to comply with the Code of Conduct may result in termination from the Streetvibes vendor program. GCCH reserves the right to terminate any vendor at any time as deemed appropriate. Badges and Streetvibes papers are property of GCCH, and must be surrendered upon demand. The mission of the North American Street Newspaper Association (NASNA) is to support a street newspaper movement that creates and upholds journalistic and ethical standards while promoting self-help and empowerment among people living in poverty. NASNA papers support homeless and very low-income people in more than 35 cities across the United States and Canada. Streetvibes Vendor: 75 cents Printing and Production: 25 cents About the Greater Cincinnati Coalition for the Homeless and Streetvibes.... The Greater Cincinnati Coalition for the Homeless (GCCH) was formed in May of 1984 for one purpose: the eradication of homelessness in Cincinnati. What started out as a coalition of 15 volunteers meeting weekly in an unheated church basement has since grown into a Coalition of over 45 agencies and hundreds of volunteers dedicated to improving services for homeless individuals, educating the public about homelessness and empowering homeless individuals to advocate for their civil rights and housing needs. Streetvibes is a tool of GCCH used to help us achieve our goal of ending homelessness. On the one hand it is a selfsufficiency program geared towards the homeless and marginally housed individuals who are our vendors. Streetvibes vendors buy the paper for 30 cents per copy and sell it for a suggested one-dollar donation, keeping the profit that they have earned. This program has helped hundreds of people find and maintain housing. The vendors also sign a code of conduct stating that they will behave responsibly and professionally and they proudly display their official Streetvibes badge while selling the paper. Our vendors put a face on “the homeless” of Cincinnati and form lasting friendships with their customers. On the other hand, Streetvibes is an award-winning alternative newspaper and part of the international street newspaper movement. Focusing on homelessness and social justice issues, Streetvibes reports the often-invisible story of poverty in our community. Streetvibes is also proud to include creative writing, poetry, articles, photography and interviews written by homeless and formerly homeless individuals. Streetvibes enjoys a loyal reader base that respects the honest portrayal of the joys, sorrows, and challenges facing the people of Cincinnati. Streetvibes is a member of the: The International Network of Street Papers (INSP) unites street papers sold by homeless and people living in poverty from all over the world. INSP is an umbrella organisation, which provides a consultancy service for its partner papers and advises on the setting up of new street papers and support initiatives for marginalised people. Where Your Dollar Goes... Buy STREETVIBES! Check Vendors Badge Don’t be Squirrelly! The Streetvibes program maintains a minimal overhead cost so that our vendors can keep as much of the proceeds as possible. Please call our office at 421-7803 for more information about the program. Many thanks for your support. Buy Streetvibes! Page 12 Streetvibes �Gordon Maham – A Man of Peaceful Intent by Mary Ann Lederer Gordon Maham is an organic farmer; a retired civil engineer; an inventor; a collector of junk which he rebuilds and recycles; an animal lover and protector; a vegetarian; an environmentalist; a widower; a father of 4 and grandfather of 2. He is one of the kindest, most gentle people I have ever known. And he is the only person I know personally who really knows how to live in peace and harmony with nature, how to live directly from the land. He knows how to survive there, and he treats insects and buzzards with the same love and respect he shows all people. He has a disposition that never ceases to amaze. He spends almost no money on himself, gives to anyone in need and then gives more. At age 89 (90 in January, 2007) he continues to work actively for a peaceful planet and a kinder distribution of resources. It’s over 45 years since Gordon Maham choose to spend 3 years in Ashland Federal Prison by refusing to report for induction into the military. He had registered for the draft as a conscientious objector, but the draft board refused to grant him C.O. status. He took several military jobs that he hoped would be of peaceful intent, one building the Panama Canal, another with the Manhattan Project. He did this to avoid the draft board. When he realized the Manhattan Project in Oakridge, Tennessee was actually a nuclear bomb production plant, he quit. He made the decision that a jail sentence was preferable. Now he returns frequently to Oakridge to continue his protest against nuclear weapons. Since that time he has lived a wonderful life in sync with his heart and his conscience. Gordon is the most helpful person I’ve ever known. He has long lists of people he helps with all kinds of problems. For a number of years he built me a vegetable garden every summer to help me with health problems. Brian Garry describes Gordon as “a person who has taught me how to live correctly… a measuring stick…almost perfection. Buy nothing. Stop the bomb. Who cares what others think. Kindness. Gentlest. Utterly peaceful. Anti war, anti racist, anti-war on the poor. Anti roots of homelessness, anti-poverty. Peaceful Planet Person…child friendly. Mac’s right hand man.” Gordon helped me home school my son. He teaches me how to laugh, how to get along with people. I’ve traveled with him around the country to DC, New York, Tennessee and Georgia spreading the message of peace and non-violence. Gordon is a true example of a life well lived for others. An inspiration, a shining beacon for us all. Gordon believes in helping others. He helps people with: food for the hungry, (he grows it himself (organically!) friendship to the friendless, love for the loveless, homes for the homeless (literally) has bought people homes and kept many from becoming homeless, including me! Clothes for the naked. Helps the violent with non-violence, the penniless with money from his small monthly social security checks – he spends the entire amount each month on people in need, he offers joy to the depressed, visits to those locked up, shut-in, in the hospital or in nursing homes. If he has a fault it’s in helping others too much. Gordon also recruits others in his mission to help and serve. In the past I’ve described him as “a person who has taught me how to live correctly… a measuring stick…almost perfection. Buy nothing. Stop the bomb. Who cares what others think? Gordon has meant the world to me. Edging me to do the right thing when I’m being tested or tempted to do something not so right. Like an Angel he calls at the opportune moment to step in, as if from God. He calls this serendipity, although lately he has been calling it Psychic. He has a supernatural relationship with animals, buzzards, horses, cats, birds, Great Horned Owls, and Coyotes all of which he feeds, Gordon is sent from God. We’ve built squirrel habitats, healed horses, and attended funerals, he testified at my trial. He has had me help him in his mission of serving those he cares for, driving all over the country-side for their sake. He especially enjoys the company of people coming to weed the Garden, Garden Gordon. In a sense that’s what Gordon does, he weeds out that which is bad or unnecessary in us and in the world and all that is left are beautiful helpful productive things to grow in our hearts and in the world So if you want to do something for him or spend time in his company then stop by and weed the Garden figuratively or literally. ‘Black Widows’ to stand trial for murder of homeless men LOS ANGELES - Helen Golay, 76 and Olga Rutterschmidt, 74, have been dubbed the “Black Widows” for the scheme, which allegedly saw them befriend two homeless men and take out life Insurance policies on them before having them killed. Los Angeles Superior Court judge David Wesley said after a four-day preliminary hearing there was enough evidence for the two pensioners to stand trial on murder and conspiracy charges. The women are alleged to have killed Kenneth McDavid, 50, in June 2005 and Paul Vados, 73, in November 1999, according to prosecutors. Both men died in hitand-run crashes. Prosecutors told the court Golay and Rutterschmidt paid rent on behalf of the two men along with life insurance premiums for two years in order to create the impression of close ties to their victims. The women lied to insurance investigators about their relationship with the dead men, claiming to be a fiancé or a cousin in several cases, in order to secure multiple insurance policies, prosecutor Shellie Samuels said. Lawyers for the women had called for the case to be dismissed, claiming that the evidence of “inappropriate insurance practices” did not prove involvement in the victim’s deaths. The women are alleged to have killed Kenneth McDavid, 50, in June 2005 and Paul Vados, 73, in November 1999, according to prosecutors. Both men died in hitand-run crashes. Prosecutors told the court Golay and Rutterschmidt paid rent on behalf of the two men along with life insurance premiums for two years in order to create the impression of close ties to their victims. The women lied to insurance investigators about their relationship with the dead men, claiming to be a fiancé or a cousin in several cases, in order to secure multiple insurance policies, prosecutor Shellie Samuels said. Lawyers for the women had called for the case to be dismissed, claiming that the evidence of practices” did not prove involvement in the victim’s deaths. Program helps homeless cope GASTONIA, N.C. — Project Connect began in San Francisco and quickly spread to cities across the nation. On Friday, Gastonia held its own version, giving the area’s homeless one place to find services they need to get back on their feet. From haircuts to services, food, clothes and just a person to talk to, Project Connect had it all under one roof at First United Methodist Church. “We’re trying to help the homeless find jobs, get back on their feet, find housing and get them back in the mainstream of life,” said Gastonia Mayor Jennie Stultz. From haircuts to services, food, clothes and just a person to talk to, Project Connect had it all under one roof at First United Methodist Church. Stultz says the city has a 10-year plan to end homelessness and Project Connect is just part of the agenda. It has proven successful in other cities across the country. National statistics show that 1 percent of any community can be calculated as homeless. Stulz says right now many people she encounters are working poor who can’t afford rent, and that needs to change. Wanda Stevens says although she has a home, she still Streetvibes struggles, but events like this give her hope. “Everything is just so high, it’s hard for people to make it,” she said. Gastonia plans to put together another event like this in October. Asheville held Project Connect in December. Project Connect also works hard in Cincinnati to provide services to homeless youth. Page 13 �Without Blues WRITTEN FOR THE THREE HOMELESS WOMEN WHO LOST THEIR LIVES TO A SERIAL KILLER IN SEATTLE, WASHINGTON We come today contrite yet compelled, confused yet confident, alone and in pain. In this the process of healing we are the puzzles whose pieces have vanished, we are the Jesters whose antics mask pain. We are the ghostly stampede of dying Buffalos across the arid plains mammoth and unruly, furied and bold, majestic and free. Cabin Fever Virginia Conn I’m freezing, so I tack flannel sheets under the blinds, discovering the frost has resurrected the finger oils of someone named Linda. Twice the precise lettering appears, well out of reach of a child’s hand. The window overlooks the street. I’ve stood there, impatient for mail or visitors, yet this is the first I’ve heard from her. I scan my studio for other traces, blaming her for the erratic nails, especially one eye level screw, dead center, that no painting hangs from comfortably. I start to attribute other mischief We do not die easily to her; misplaced keys and night knocks, but bellow out in rage the names of slain ancestors then fear she may be trapped, the bitter who speak from darkened dreams of more glory-full days. cold compelling her to contact me. ”I never got out. It never warmed up.” We I keep checking the pane for further word. are not dead but merely unseen. I remind myself: It is winter everywhere. On shadowy mountains, along desolate rivers, Outside, Buffalo trudges past, layered in amongst fleeting consciousness and the kindness of clothes like shuck on corn. Like that screw, strangers an act of defiance, Linda versus concrete, these ghost-like spirits run free. in relief of the wide white wall. Lonnie Nelson For all those who have seen drugs, alcoholism and abuse tear their families apart. Without the stub of crocus, the breeze through cedar and hills to climb in the soft light of January I would be lost. Without the picket lines’ “How you doing?”— friends sitting around at the table while November rains, I would wash away in tears. Without my pencil, the work that must be done, the brothers and sisters in the strong August sun, I would go over the edge. Wolf The Soup Song A depression era song, to the tune of “My Bonnie Lies Over the Ocean”. Words updated by Ruth A. Fox I’m spending my nights in the shelter, I’m spending my days on the street, I’m looking for work and I find none, I wish I had something to eat. Soo-oop, soo-oop, they give me a bowl of soo-oo­ oop. Soo-oop, soo-oop, they give me a bowl of soup! I spent twenty years in the fact’ry, I stayed home and raised up the kids. My man beat me one time to often; I left him and then hit the skids. Galaxie You could call me a night owl, or you could think of me as the wolf. You won’t see me much during the day, but alas, when you are asleep, I’ll be there in your dreams, sometimes to comfort, sometimes to torment you, for I am your nightmares. I am your dreamscapes, I am the things that you fear and fail to understand. I am the night, I am the darkness. I come and I take away the pain, though I can also make it worsen. Do not cross the night. Because the night, like the wolf, has no fear of the dark. by Kris Schon To Be, to Become To be, to become to believe in yourself the inner voice that propels you forward Soo-oop, soo-oop, they give me a bowl of soo-oo­ a waterfall of wisdom of life oop. fears and rejections Soo-oop, soo-oop, they give me a bowl of soup! triumphs and tragedies I fought in the war for my country, laughter and hope I went out to bleed and to die; belly button stuff I thought that my country would help me, the main course But this is my country’s reply: at life’s banquet for those wishing to attend. Soo-oop, soo-oop, they give me a bowl of soo-oo­ grateful are the many who stand firm oop. in a brisk breeze Soo-oop, soo-oop, they give me a bowl of soup! head up, eye to eye I fell on my knees down at Welfare; with the dragon. I swore to be honest and good; Flickering stars I begged them to renew my benefits; candles lit And now I’ve received my award. from your strength your courage Soo-oop, soo-oop, they give me a bowl of soo-oo­ your hope your faith, burning on. oop. MOON art by Darcie Day If, in a moment frantic my mad beauty, I, tiny moan could see you then, when it felt honeyful live, ache, drunk still after love. My delirious goddess we worship a moon lake rain and blue; The summer gift. A woman some enormous power less part delicate sleep. Soo-oop, soo-oop, they give me a bowl of soup! Page 14 Streetvibes Sycamore on the Ohio Gaunt and precarious, a sycamore leans out over the winter Ohio. In the flood season, when the waters tear at the banks, the black reptilian bodies of oak, cottonwood, catalpa float downstream, half-submerged. But this sycamore holds fast, for now, its place in the earth. The roots on the eroded river side reach out, dig their mottled heels in the sand, and brace themselves among the beds of the mussels and the gravelly nests where catfish spawn. Stripped bare by the floods, these roots are like the granite buttresses of cathedrals or, like great vegetal pythons, or, like the knees of gods at rest. Behind them, the bank side roots, curtained in silt, set out to explore the interstitial corridors of the subsoil. They cast their nets wide in the darkness. They pass along the stations of the mole and follow the paths of the worm and the nematode. They sift with their white fingers through the mineral amalgam of sand, leafmeal, shell, fish scale, rusted hook, and chips of mica. They penetrate the caskets of clay and tell no secrets. They press into the crevices of the layered limestone and trace the flutes of the scalloped fossil. They pore over shards of the Adena, splinters of brick, and fragments of broken glass polished like discarded jewels. They pry among the bones of the hanged man and touch, as if it were a relic, the pierced heart of someone’s drowned daughter, �This is where it begins... Second Home Madeline Lewis When you call me YELLOW, WIMP, FINK (this feels like abuse) I will forgive you When you call me SNAKE, SLIME, WORM (this feels like abuse) I will forg i v e Stan Buriss (Thanksgiving Day ’97) to: Planet Hollywood Folks & Restaurant You could stand. Then you would stand alone! Not without friends, you understand—with When you call me CLOD, CLOWN, C#$% (this feels like abuse) I will turn When you call me PIG, SLOB, SLUT (this feels like abuse) I will turn away When you call me WHORE (this feels like (IS) abuse) I will turn away from you this circle beneath your eyes, far from a real center. Broken from the ends! Sharp, where the best ends are broken for the last time (if you call it the last). Only then, if you use your real name. Is this how you treat your women, children, people surely I’m not the first, nor will I be the last will the next issue become physical or perhaps someone will die I can not change the world do I even want to try maybe someday we can stop the lie sing a song of violation equivocation demarcation supplication tribulation and truncation sing a song of subterfuge a deadly ruse loving abuse and splitting in twos and no way to choose sing a song of fighting free a warrior’s creed survival fees ptsd and healing mes. Standing with Dignity Paul von Kempf, JR. Standing here with dignity waiting through all kinds of weather selling Real Change Newspaper Waiting for those smiling eyes hopeful wanting to be helpful to say paper please Can you see that your generosity is appreciated? Standing here with dignity I see another kind of eyes Cold cruel and full of contempt Walking past me without seeing Taking the long way around Can you see my pain? Change will come when that is your CHOICE I only have a VOICE Remember to look in the mirror and see the images of yourself in the labels you put on others Do I jerk you out of your coccoon,when I say hello? do I jerk you back to reality? When your words are used in haste you take the warm loving feelings I had and turned them cold you wonder why there is no response I turn in disbelief for it is of no use I did not deserve your ABUSE Standing here with dignity I have time to reflect on why I am selling Real Change Newspaper In another time and another place I have had several jobs I have lost them to accident, illness, disease or my bigshot ideas Society deals harshly with people who have bigshot ideas where is the forgiveness? It has nothing to do with forgiveness but of ABUSE Battle Plan I Shall Die Heather’s Page Jose Ornelas I am Indigenous. I am a conquered peoples, one of many. What next? Will I be bitter? Who will I try to conquer? My women, or child? You? No, brothers and sisters, I will surrender so that I may rise. Surrender to my hunger. Accept my humanity. Embrace...us. My nation became a gang, now it will be a nation again. Heart to heart Love to love one two three nations under a groove. We will marry each other and see all the children as our own. I am lucky because I am not the inheritor of the legacy of the overseer. I don’t hold the whip, I never did. When it is finished we will bury the past; weep for it and then sing for the future. today I am standing here with dignity selling Real Change Newspaper Waiting for those smiling eyes to say paper please I hope you can see my gratitude for your generosity. Berta’s Art Corner Uncovered Ceiling, Carew Tower, Cincinnati Elizabeth Romero The woman coming toward you is trying to hang on. You can see it in her eyes, her wary sidelong glance. The woman coming toward you is trying to hang on. Her clothes flap loosely in the wind. Her red shoes clash. The woman coming toward you carries the patient rage of her mother and her mother before that like that cracked plastic handbag. Streetvibes Page 15 �357-4602 Formed in 1984, The Greater Cincinnati Coalition for the Homeless is a membership organization. Our member groups serve the homeless through emergency shelter, transitional living facilities, permanent housing, medical services, social services, soup kitchens, and mental health/addiction services. The Coalition also consists of individual citizens who want to take an active role in ensuring that Cincinnati is an inclusive community, meeting the needs of all of its citizens. Join the fight to end homelessness; contact the Greater Cincinnati Coalition for the Homeless at (513) 421-7803, 117 East 12th Street Cincinnati, Ohio 45202 SHELTER: Both Anthony House (Youth) SHELTER: Men City Gospel Mission 241-5525 Garden St. House 241-0490 Joseph House (Veterans) 241-2965 St. Francis/St.Joseph House 381-4941 Mt. Airy Center 661-4620 Volunteers of Amer. 381-1954 SHELTERS: Women and Children YWCA Battered Women’s Shelter 872-9259 (Toll Free) 1-888-872-9259 Bethany House 557-2873 Salvation Army 762-5660 Welcome Hse. 859-431-8717 Women’s Crisis Center 859-491-3335 If you need help or would like to help please call one of the Greater Cincinnati Coalition for the Homeless members listed below. OTHER SERVICES: AIDS Volunteers of Cincinnati 421-2437 Appalachian Identity Center 621-5991 Beech Acres 231-6630 Center for Independent Living Options 241-2600 Churches Active in Northside 591-2246 Cincinnati Health Network 961-0600 Community Action Agency 569-1840 Contact Center 381-4242 Emanuel Center 241-2563 TREATMENT: Both N.A. Hopeline 820-2947 A.A. Hotline 351-0422 C.C.A.T. 381-6672 Talbert House 684-7956 Transitions, Inc 859-491-4435 VA Domiciliary 859-559-5011 DIC Live-In Program 721-0643 TREATMENT: Men Charlie’s 3/4 House 784-1853 Prospect House 921-1613 Starting Over 961-2256 TREATMENT: Women First Step Home 961-4663 Full Circle Program 721-0643 HOUSING: CMHA 721-4580 Excel Development 632-7149 Miami Purchase 241-0504 OTR Housing Net. 369-0004 ReSTOC 381-1171 Tender Mercies 721-8666 Tom Geiger House 961-4555 Dana Transitional Bridge Services, Inc 751-9797 Caracole (AIDS) 761-1480 Friars Club 381-5432 Drop Inn Center 721-0643 Haven House 863-8866 Interfaith Hospitality 471-1100 Lighthouse Youth Center (Teens) 961-4080 St. John’s Housing 651-6446 Need Help or Want to Help? MIDDLETOWN/HAMILTON (Butler County) St. Raphaels (Food Bank/Soup Kitchen) 863-3184 Salvation Army 863-1445 Serenity House Day Center 422-8555 Open Door Pantry 868-3276 New Life Baptist Mission (Soup Kitchen) 896-9800 Hope House (Homeless Families/Singles) 423-4673 Freestore/ Foodbank 241-1064 Fransiscan Haircuts 651-6468 Goodwill Industries 771-4800 Coalition for the Homeless 421-7803 Hamilton Co. Mental Health Board 946-8600 Mental Health Access Point 558-8888 Hamilton Co. TB Control 632-7186 Health Rsrc. Center 357-4602 Homeless Mobile Health Van 352-2902 House of Refuge Mission 221-5491 Legal Aid Society 241-9400 Madisonville Ed. & Assis. Center 271-5501 Mary Magdalen House 721-4811 McMicken Dental Clinic 352-6363 Our Daily Bread 621-6364 Peaslee Neighborhood Center 621-5514 Project Connect Homeless Kids 357-5720 St. Vincent De Paul 562-8841 The Emergency Food Center 471-4357 Travelers Aid 721-7660 United Way 721-7900 VA Homeless 859-572-6226 Women Helping Women 872-9259 Greater Cincinnati Coalition for the Homeless Kathy Y. Wilson ‘Poor Little Rich Me’ Guest Columnist T April 2007 Katrina Clean-up Continues Cover Story BUY FROM BADGED VENDORS ONLY STREETVIBES $1 Donation � Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource 2007 Text A resource consisting primarily of words for reading. Examples include books, letters, dissertations, poems, newspapers, articles, archives of mailing lists. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre Text. Original Format The type of object, such as painting, sculpture, paper, photo, and additional data Newspaper Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource April 2007 Subject The topic of the resource Homelessness Description An account of the resource Pg 1: Poor Little Rich Me The Effects of Hurricane Katrina Still Being Felt Pg 2: Wilson Continued Pg 3: Homeless News Digest Pg 4: This is the Second in a Streetvibes Series on; Poverty and Addiction Pg 5: Homeless World Cup California: Advocates Win ‘Homeless FreeZones’ Lawsuit Pg 6: Katrina Continued Pg 7: My Experiences in Baltimore Pg 8: Mother’s Day Pg 9: New Cincinnati Health Van Visits Shelters Pg 10: 72 Hours Pg 11: Federal Minimum Wage Increase Gains Momentum Pg 12: About the Greater Cincinnati Coalition for the Homeless and Streetvibes Pg 13: Gordon Maham- A Man of Peaceful Intent Pg 14: Arts & Poetry Pg 15: Arts & Poetry Continued Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Streetvibes Archive Project Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Streetvibes Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Greater Cincinnati Homeless Coalition Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource April 2007 Contributor An entity responsible for making contributions to the resource Georgine Getty John Lavelle Lynne Ausman Andy Freeze Melvin Williams Linda Pittman Matt Cohen Jimmy Heath Berta Lambert Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource PDF addiction Andy Freeze Baltimore Berta Lambert California Cincinnati Cincinnati Youth Empowerment Program Free Zones GCCH Georgine Getty Gordon Maham Health Van Homeless News Digest Hurricane Katrina Jimmy Heath John Lavelle Linda Pittman Lynne Ausman Matt Cohen Mayor Melvin Williams Minimum Wage poverty https://streetvibesarchive.net/files/original/87dbe37abddde66659961dcc25f51e2d.pdf fe5a2441d0a4187f4874fd8b7149d92f PDF Text Text Empty Shirte. LostUves" $·f THE TRI-STATE'S ALTERNATIVE N"EWS SOURCE r=tNSIDE :; THlS ISSUE ,Local News Ne\V'hotline number saves homeless families time when looking for shelter. - page4 Community News One more thing the poor can't afford is a visit to the courthouse, l...paoe 7 "' ' Columns A culture o~ poverty? CM ichael Henson discusses the controversial theory. ~page 10 l'{ational News Veterans of Iraq and Afglrnnistan hope to reprise Vietnam-era event. I - page 12 Students Help on CUE Volunteering could be the best spring break of all Bv A NDY F REEZE STAFF WRITER W hile many college studentsgo to die beach or go hom e for spring break. a small percentage volunteer their time on an al!emative spring break. Many collegesand univer­ sities around the country have· groups ofstudents who spend spring break giving back lo communitiesand learning about social issues. This is the first year the Greacc.rCincinnati Coalition for the Homeless has hosted stu­ dents from around the country to help them learn abou1 issues of homelessness and poverty. Cincinnati Urban Experience (CUE) is a weekloug service­ learning program. Students spend their days work ing at agencies in Cincinnati, and in the evenings they leam from speak­ University ofPennsylvania swdenls vol11r11eer with Joseph House while 011 c1 service trip ro Cincinnali. residents while i:elaxing. Thegroup trom 1he Univer­ sity of Vermont helped at Over-the-Rhine Comm unity Housing, work ing to clean an apartment that someone had recently vacated. Afewstudents from Lehigh helped Over-the­ Rh ine Community Housing organize and clean its ware­ house to get ready for the 45 volunteers expected the follow­ ingmoming. "It wasjust little stuffto help the staff run ll1ings more effec­ tively,"s.1ys Mike Chu, a student at Lehigh University. Sec CUE page 6 New transitional hot1sing is step away from substance abtlSe Bv L vNNt:AUSMAN STAFF Wi\ ITllR ver-the-Rhine Commu Scott Goebel looks nity Housing (OTRCH) into a recent Enquirer unveiled new transitional hous­ a1ticle on the Drop ing 45 and 47 E. McM icken fnn Center. Si. on March 27. The agency collabornted with tht: Drop .--page 14 O Lies my governemnt told me. ~page 15 ersand activities about the di I~ ferent face-s ofhomeles.~ness. The Homeless Coalition hosted three grnups ofstudents from Lehigh University, 1he Uni­ versity ofPennsylvania and the University ofVermom.Thestu­ dents spen t the ir brea k volunteering at organizations such as the Drop Inn Cemer, Joseph House, Wa lnut 1-Jills Soup Kitchen and Over-the­ RhincConununiry Housing. At the Drop Inn Center.stu­ dents from the Univcrsi1y of Pennsylvan ia helped sort clothe.s in the storage room. While at the Walnut Hills Soup Kitchen, students prepared and served meals; after lunch, they helped by handing out bags of groceries to individuals and families in need. At the Joseph House, stu­ dents helped paint a fence as well as an inside wall but took time to interact with some ofthe A New Way to Live Guest Golun111 Opinion www.cincihomeless.org Inn Center, the Model Group and the City ofCinci1111ati on this pr~ject. Last yea r the Drop Inn Center negotiated with Ci n­ cinnati Public Schools and the city ofCincinnati, agreeing to sell transitional housing units on the corner ofEhn and 12'" streets, in order to accommo­ date the new School for the Creativeand PerfonningArts. In return for selling the transi­ tional housing, the Drop Inn Centeracquired an equal num­ ber of units on McMicken in a refurbished and upgraded " This is such a pivotal moment for the OTR community and shows what remark­ able goals can be accomplished when community leaders work in partnership," -Sarah Allen, project managerforOTRCH. building. The city helped to fa­ cilitate the agree ment by supplying funding for the re­ development and relocation of the housing units. "This is such a pivotal mo­ ment for the OTR community and shows what remarkable goals can be accomplished when community leaders work in partnership," says Sarah Allen, project manager for OTRCH. Transirional housing plays a hu ge role in end ing homelessness. The most re­ cent Housing and Urban Development progress report on Over-the-Rh ine·found that 90 percent ofpeople complet­ iag the program moved into permanent housing. Transi­ tional housing is often the first step to self-sustainabi lity for a fonnerly homeless individual; clients are still eligible for homeless assistance programs while they improve on the lrfe skills needed to manage per­ manent housing. The new units are conve­ niently located across the street from the former NuBlend Paint Building. The building houses the Drop lnn Cenler's Homeless Individu­ als Partnership Team - an intensive case-management See HOUSING 1>age 7 �Streetvibes 1l7 fa\s t 12th Street Cincinnati, OH 45202 phone: (513) 421-7803x 12 fox: (513) 421-7813 streetvibes2@yahoo.com www.cincihomeless.org STREETVIBES About Us 2 STREETVIBES April 2008 Our Mission Streetvibes is a newspaper tha t provides relevant discussions of homelessness, poverty and other related social justice issues. It is published once a mo11th by the Creater Ci:nci11natiCoalition for the Homeless. The GreaterGncinnati CCJ'aliti0n for the homeless is a group of she! ters, agencies and inclividuals committedto ending homeless in Gncinnati through.coordinating services, educating the public, and grassroots organizing. Our Vendors Streetvibes Staff Editor Alfred Woolfolk Anthony Williams Antonio Hodge Mark S hca1·s Grady Cook J ames Bybee Juli e Walker L.eonard Jackson Mark Campbell Raeshawn Gipson Riccardo Taylor Sam Jackson Ke011etb Stonil'sch Jotm Terrence Gaines Williams Ber ta David Lambert Cko ·wombk s Watkins Quinlion Williams Jon Darby J osephi ne Baskerville Nell \ Villiams Tonia Haley Silvia Collins Tony Dnimmond Raynard .Jones Charles Cole Milton Hawkins James DauyoII G REGORY FLANNERY Contributing Writers M1CHA~l H ENSON, S TEVE SUNDERLAND, ANDY F REEZE, CREC 0 LKHOVSKV, H OLLY PARKER, ALYSSA KONERM•\NN, Cl.ro WOMB~ES, Scon COF.BEl., CYDNEY GILLlS, NJ\NCY STONE, ADAMHYLA, L YNNBAUSMJ\N, ROilE~TTRAlll'MAN Photography A NDREW ANDER.<;();~ A NDY F'REEZE B ERTA LAMBERT L YNNEA USMAN l<AVO'A V INEJ<AR Artwork ANTONIO H ODGE i\NlllONY W ILL11\MS Advisory Committee fO E W ESELS STEVE N OVOTNI ANDY F REEZE G EORGINE GETTY MICHAEL H F.NSON 5 TEPHANTE DL"NLAP S TEVE GIBBS Cover S TUDENTS VOLUNTEER AT WALNUT H11.1sSouP K ITCHEN WHILE ON CUE. We are members of: 75 cents goes tlirectly to your vendor 25 cef/fs pays for pri11ti11g costs No rth America n St reel Newspaper Associal'ion JN SP ./ lnt'ernational Network of Street Papers Readers! Do you have a favorite Vendor you would like to non1inate for Vendor of the Month? Please send your nontinations to streetvibes2@yahoo.coni. or Streetvibes 117 E 12th St. Cincinnati, OH 45202 513.421.7803 x 12. �STREETVIBES The Vibe April 2008 3 Shutter Speed By the Numbers - li.u lOO Ameticausare t10wbebind bars --1.6 million adUltsare JiO\V in prison with another 70-0,000 in local jails. ~TI1e imprisoned population has tripled in the"past 30 years. ....onein 15Afri<>an American males are behind bars ~The U.S. imprisons more p~ple than any 0the:r GQllntry in the world (both by Sisler Lynne Staken, Alison /vlerce1: and Sis1er Leslie parlicipale in Emply Shirts. Lost Lives in Clifton. Pbotograhp by Andrew Anderson. percentage and sheer o.un1ber). Mr. and Mrs. Homeless Downtowner i\'lr. Homeless Downtowner l\ilrs. Homeless Downtowner Name: Edward Johnson Hometown: Cincinnati, OH Neighborhood: Over-the-Rl1ine Favorite interest:: Helping people I can ' t stand ii when: I can' t.get any work lfl won the lottery I would: Donate to the church, help peopleou1, and then treat myself The one thing I would change aboutthe world would be: Nothing, it is perfect lfl could have done it all over again I wou ld have: Went back to school Lo"e to me is: Paul, Corinthians, and the Bible Name: Phyllis Hometown: Cincinnati,OH Neighborhood: Downtown Favorite in terest·: Readingand dancing I can't resist: Seeing a crowd and being nloved by it I can'tstand it when: People look down on the poor justbecause they don 't have money If I won t·he lottery I would: Invest in youth development programs such as education for the youth. The one thing I would change about the world would be: Misplaced values l ove to me is: Unconditional ,...The Unjted S~s imprisons more people thanebina (l.5 nrillion)~ a.inuch Lnore p9pulous (and autocratic) country. -States now spend $44 billion on correctipns (a 127 percentincrease since 1987). FromThe Pew O:ntei;;qn the Stiltes. (~----------------------------------------------------~ Donate to Streetvibes : You eaa clonate online 1 The more support we have from the con1munity, the f!:rrther our effors.reach. Our w0rl~ is possible only with the h.elp of generous indiv idual gifts. : Please consider making a:contribution toaay ! Enclosed is my ta,»-deductabfo contribution of: : WW\¥.cincihomel~s.org N ~me: I _____________~ $25 _ $50 _ $1QO _ $150 _ Otber $_ I I Onnake cheeks.payable LC:>' Streewibes 117 &\st 12th Street, Cineinnati, OK 45202 Address: -------------- City I State/ Zip: _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ J Tllank you for dtjn1 ienevously! I I I I I ~-------------------------------------------------------~ �STREETVIBES Local News 4 April 2008 Shelter Just a Phone Call Away for Homeless Families BY GR£·C 0LK!IOVSKV STAFF Wrul'ER T t's now much easie~ f~r ho.meless J.fam1hes mGreaterCmcmnati tofuid shelter: Just call 381-SAFE (381-7233). The new Central Access Point (CAP) hotline will serve as a one-stop clearinghouse for informationonspace availabiljty at the area's five family shelters. CAPwent into operationMarch 17,launched by tl'le Cincinnati/Hamilton County Continuum of Care for ihe Homeless Inc. in collaboration with the FamilyShellerParu'lership. The previous system required homeless families to c:ontact nearby family shelters to see ifthere was any available room. Jfthe shelter were full, families had to test their luck al'tl1e next shelter. This process often resulted in missed calls,gamesoftelephone tag wil11 theshelters and constantlytrying to find vacancies. CAP is a major improvement becauseofits convenience. Families can now call one numberand be connected 10 a homeless preventionspecialisl The specialist will place families into ashelter based on bed availabitiry, household structure and history with the family sheltersystem. Thinkofit as booking a flight: The specialist will search the database and assign a family 10 one of the five shelters. TheSalvationAnny hosted a Feb. 29 presentation on the oew CAP program. Speakers included Jacqueline Thomas. social services director for the SalvationAm1y; and JoAnn Mcintosh, theSalvation Arm's emergency shelter supervisor. ··we ate all extremelyexcited to be serving tile homeless inan innovali.veand effective fashion,'" says Sister Mary Stanton, ex>-ecutive directorofBethany House Services. "The CAP program underlines the outstandingcollaboration among social service agencies in our city." TheInterfaith Hospitality Network, SalvationArmy,Mercy FranciscMat St. John, YWCA and Bethany House, serving as the lead agency, are the participatingorganizations inCAP. Specialists will answer calls at381­ SAFEfrom I0 am. to 8 p.m. weekdays and f:rom I0 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays. During offhours,caJl.e.rs can leave recorded messages. Surviving Is Not Enough Women Helping Women combines service and advocacy Bv ALYSSA KoNNERMAN STAFF WRITER Drwomen who find themselves tile victims ofsexual assault, domes­ ticviolence and stalking, it oftenseems t11ere is no place to turn orto escape. This sense ofhelplessness is exactly what Women Helping Women aims to change. The agency serves people in Southwestern Ohio, providing crisis intervention and support services for both direct and indirect victims of tl1ese crimes. In addi ti on, the c'enter takes a leading role in educating the comnnmity, promoting awareness and seeking to help prevent these types of abuse. r Until recently called the Rape Cri­ sis and Abuse Center, the agency has reverted to its original name, Women Helping Women. The agency provides a variety of services, allowing it to assist victims in diverse situations. First, the center operntes a 24-hourcrisis line, connect­ ing women witl1 specially trained staff and volunteers who perform crisis in­ tervention and make referrals to other community services. Women Helping Women offers hospital accompaniment in order to support rape victinls and operates sup­ port groups. The agency is active in victims' advoca<..-y in courtand with Jaw enforcement, accompanying victims to court. l.n its work with victimized women, Women Helping Women rec­ ognizes the absolute importance of privacy and takes special care in mat­ ters regardjng personal mformation. Women Helping Women also works to educate the community about sexual assault, domestic violence and stalking. Central to thls mission is the Date Rape and Dating Violence Pre­ vention Program, which the center offers in local junior and senior high schools. The program explains to stu­ dents the dynamics ofdate rape and dating violence, focusing on identify­ ing potentially dangeroussituations imd providing them with tools to protect themselves. The agency also offers training programs for tlmse who work directly witl1 victims ofsexual assault and do­ mestic violence. Women Helping Women began its work in I 973 and since that time has consistently provided assistance and advocacy for women victimized by these crimes. "Women Helping Women provides the Cincinnati region impressive ser­ vices and support to assist people in healing from intimate-partner v io­ lence," says Jennifer Wies, director of Xavier University Women's Center. Women Helping Women is at 215 E. Ninth St., downtown, and can be contacted al 513.977.5541 , or www.rapecrisisandabusecenter.org. The 24-hourcrisis hotline is 513-381­ 5610 or toll-free at 888-381-5610. ISSUES 2108 WHAT'S AT STAKE? JOIN US for DAYS OF DIALOGUE. What better time than an election year to dialogue on the critical issues that affect us all Education May 17 OUR PURPOSE is to create an environment where people with differing views can listen and be listened to, and civil discourse can occur. WHEN: Each dialogue will be held on Saturdays from 9am to 12 noon WHERE: First Unitarian Church (536 Linton St) at corner of Reading ~ Free & Open to the Public~ Reservations Requested. RSVP to 513-579-8547 www.ijpc-cincianati.org mm lg ration July 19 <> �STREETVIBES Local News April 2008 5 Peace Activists Turn Out in Force B Y GREGORY FLANNERY STAFF WRITER ive yea rs o·a , th e peace movemen t got a measure ofits support in Greater Cincinnati when activists planned to line Clifton Avenue with T-shirts representing American soldiers killed in lraq. lt could have proved embarrassing. The cold and rain seemed likely to limit turnout March 19, not to mention the kind ofdiscouragement that can set in after five years of struggle. But neither the weather nor moral fatigue were a match for the enthusiasm that greeted Empty Shirts , Lost Lives, a commemora ti on of the fifth annive rsary ofthe U.S. invasion of lraq. Organized by the lnte rcommu.aity Justice and Peace Center (JJPC) and MOVEon.org, the non-violent demonstration drew more than 700 participants, according to Kristen Barker, a staff member al JJPC. " I am fee ling so encouraged about the peace movement in Greater Cincinnati," she said in an e-mail after the event. "As we' ve said, wars don ' t end by themselves. Yesterday we saw the ty pe of commitment, the persistence and the visible. creative action that keeps the pressure on the politicians to do the right thing and end war." Empty Shirts. Lost Lives was part ofa nationwide series of anti­ war events March 1.9, including non­ violent civil disobedience in other parts ofthe country. Pe,ople stood along Cl ifton A'1en11e from McMillan Street to Ludlow Avenue, with a small break in the Burnet Woods section, holding T-shirts in the cold rain. Bui they weren' t the only people who helped, Barker s ays . Even passe rsb y showed their support. F 111e cold and nasty weather could 1101 keep Randy Bruins.from lining C(fiton Ave. in pro/est ofthe wt11: Photograph by Andrew Anderson. "Tlranks to those of you who honked," She wrote. "Thanks to those of you who attended the interfaith prayer service, to those of you who vigilled with MOVEon. Thanks t0 all who prayed or made phone calls to legislators. Thanks to 1hose who wrote letters to the editor. A sincere thanks for al I you do to end this war and bring more pea.cc. to our world." The peace activists' efforts prompted widespread news coverage, including a mention in The New York Times ·and stories in Cincinnati's dai ly newspaper and on three local TV stations. Within days of the anniversary, the United States announced the death t011 for its troops had Nached 4,000, with more than 29,000 so ldiers injured. The Pentagon claims nor to count the numbe.r of Iraqi civilians killed in the.war. Peace Village Joins San Francisco Peace Protests Bv STEVE SuNot.RLANJ> Coi<tr.R.IBUTING WRITER housands of' people met at 7:30 a.m. March 19 in a fog-swept inner city neighborhood to start a day ofprotesting the fifth year ofthe war in l raq. A very large crowd gathered with great costumes, musical instruments. and great spirit to walk in the rirs1 of many protests throughout the city. I joined an orientat ion and heard the important words ofthe organizers to ..Keep it Non-violent." In th e corner at Sansone and Market. three street actors dressed in masks of Bush, T Streetvibes Subscriptions Do you have trouble reading? Seeing people's faces? Doing everyday tasks? Are you interested in having Streetvibes delivered to your mailb()X every ffi()nth. Send a check for $25 with your name and address to: Streetvibes 117 E. 12th St. Cincinnati~ OR45102 Cheney and McCain danced to Hip Hop whi le a large and smiling aud ience converged. A be autiful gro up . Brass Liberation Organization (BLO) finished LUning up and led the march at 8:20 a.m. up and down the hills or San Francisco. We chanted. sang, and raised ou r vo.ices to the grey skies. Thousands or pol ice marked Lhe way and led the march and withom incident. The Peace Village was deeply moved to be a part orsuch a great day. Peace had taken over the city, 1he cable cars and 1he sidewalks. This was a day to remembe.r. There is hope. There is help. We can help you or someone you know who has: •No Vision • Loss of Some Vision • ~ Cincinnati Association for rhe , , ~ Blind & Visually Impaired ~ 2045 Gilbert Avenue Cincinnati, OH 45202 A not-for-profit agency For information call 513-221-8558 and ask for Adrianne. �Community News 6 STREETVIBES April 2008 CUE from page 1 In the evenings, the kamingcontin­ ued as groups heard from a variety of speakers about the iss ues of homelessness and poverty. On the first night, each2roup heard from afonn.erly homeless individual from the"Voiceof the Homeless" speaker's bureau. One of the speakers was Mark Teegarden, a formerly homeless indi­ vidual who spent three years livingon the Ohio River bank. He talked about the dit'l:icultyofmaintaining work.so he and his friends could survive. He shared his story ofovercoming his bouts with substance abuse and fighting for the homeless in the city ofCovington. He challenged the students, saying, "Stand tq>, suit up and don'tshutup ifyou know Mike Chu and.fellow swdemsfrom Lehigh University prepare.food ar what you arc talking about'' Over-the-Rhine Soup Kitchen. The studem volunteers stayed in apartmentsowned how friendly their stayanywhere else.·· Elyse Gambardella, a Vermont stu­ by Over-the"I would like to make neighborswere. Rhine Community Jill Engels, a dent who helped plan the trip, says she senior at Lehigh, wassurprised how friendly and genuine Housing nc.ar people more aware and Washi ngton Park. encoura.ge them to says she enjoyed the people were. in Over-the-Rhine. Manysaid staying help out in our own "gelling to live in The last reflection thestudents took inOver-t11e-Rhioe communities." Ove r-the-Rhine part in was a discussion of ways they was one of their - Amanda Chary and really seeing could get involved in the light against favorite parts of and experience the homelessness and poverty in their own CincinnatiUrbM Experience because of community. I would nothave wan.led to communities. "We are excited to take action and create change in Burlington. Vermont," says Maggie Donin, a Vcm1ont student. ·'J would lil'c to make people more aware and encourage them to help out in ourowncommunities.'· says Amanda Chary. Mostofthe students enjoyedspend­ ing their spring break doingservice and learning. "It was the best way I could have decided to spend my spring break; · says lfe Oydele, a student at the University ofPennsylvania. Xavier University isoneofhundreds ofschools that send students to various parts of the. country and the world 10 learn about social issues and to volun­ teer their time. During this year's spring break, Xavier's Alternative Breaks club organized 22 different trips to all parts ofthe UnitedStatesand five international trips to Ukraine, El Salvador, Domini­ can Rcpubl ic, Jamaicaand Mcx.ico. For more infonnation on alternative breaks, cncck out the national organi­ at zation. Break Away. www.altemativebreaks.orgorcheckout the Cincinnati Urban Experie.nce at www.cincihomeless.org/contentfcue.hm1l. Standing Up to Assembly Line Justice One more thing the poor can't afford is a visit to the courthouse nvG RitGOR\' F t.ANNl ; RY STAFP W RITER awyers are un iquely situated to relieve the suffering of poor people, but1QO often they don't try hard enough. ll1at's the messag.e a grolip of law srudcnts heard March 25 at Northern Kentucky University's Chase School o:FLaw. Stephen .A. Bright, president ofthe Southern Center for Human Rights, reminded the audience ofafact too easily ignored. "The criminal courts deal almost exclusively with poor people ... Ifyou go to coun, nom1ally whal you're going to see is a procession ofpoor people," he said. Bright spoke about what it's like to be poor, in trouble with the law-and represented by a public defender. "Beinginjall is terrible,"hesaid."IL's dru1gerous. Peopleget raped injail. Tiiey get beat up injail. A few days in jall can niin your whole lifu." Then he gave an example: A man suffering from schizophrenia was arrested on a warrant for loitering. The warrant \Vas deficient-but he spent two weeks in jail before anybody checked. ·wlien tl1e man was released, he found his possessions th.rown on a curb, andlle'd lost his job. "Here.'s this guy living barelyon the edge," Brightsaid. "He's trying to make L it. He gets arrested, and now he 's from Ke.nton County, remarkable homeless and now he's living in the. because it featured a defense lawyer woods or on a park bench or in a who had 1ro law office. whose business cardboard box.He wasn't convicted of card listed the phone number for a bar anyth ing - but he sure was punished." near the courthouse and whose law 111e Southern license had been Center for Human " In this country today, it's suspendedseveral Rights, in Atlanta, times. When the better to be rich and challenges defendant asked guilty than to be poor unc.onstitutional the trial judge to and innocent and conditi·o ns and appoint a dffterent practices in that's not equal justice,'' lawyer, the motion - Stephen Bright, lawyer prisons ru1djails. It was denied. After his also works to improve legal representation ofindigem conviction, the man appealed on grow1ds clients. ofin.clfectivelegal representation. Buttlie Bright cited cases that, he said, U.S. Siklh Circuit Court of Appeals, suggest we should sandblast the words seated in Cincinnati, turned down the engraved on the U.S. Supreme Court appeal, concluding that.. because the man building: "Equal Justice Under tlie Law." had been " unc-0operative" with his "In this country today, it's beuer to lawyer, he had practically represented be rich and guilty than to be poor and himself:That me.ant he couldn't claim he innocem-and that's not equaljustice," had inetl'Cctivecounsel. he said. In another death-penalty case, an Bright decried the inadequate appeals court mled that having a pubIic t'unding for legal c.ounsel for poor defender sleep during part ofLhe trial people, invoking the phrase o'll.en used wasn ' t grounds for bvertuming the 10 describe the way some publ ic com~ction. defenders work: "lvleet 'em and plead ··1t's a disgrace to our profession, 'e111.n and there's caseattercaseatlercase like "Literally, J talk to public delenders that:· Bright said. "We' ve had people who don' t know their c'Jients' names," executed because the lawyers didn ' t he said. "Are we representing people, make the filing deadIine:· or are we processing them?" Racism also influences Lhe The law students heard a litany of administration ofjustice, according to horrorstorie.s, including a capital case Bright. ··we know beyond any question that a person of color in this society is more likely to bestopped by the police, more likely to be abused by police during that stop, more likely to be arrested and more likely to bedenic.il bail a few days later, more likely to be convicted and morelikely to begivenaseveresentence at the endofthe process," he said. Last 111ontl1 d1e U.S. SupremeCou1t overturned a death sentence in a Louisiana case argued by Bright. The court niledthara prosecutor in Je1forson Parish, La., had eliminated all black jurors because of Lheir race· ­ unconstitutionally prejudicing the ease against theAfrican-American defendant. Vlhile some call such rul ings ..technicalities." Bright t1rged the·Jaw students to remember what's really at stake. "I hope, atler you graduate from this lawschool, that you ·11 never let ru1yone tel lyou that the protections in theBill of Rights are acollectionoftechnicalities.,'' he said. Bright called for increased funding for legal representation for indigent clients. "\Ne' re talking about a country tl1at can afford to send a trillion dollars dropping bombs on Iraq," he said. ·'Surely we can afford a few million dollars to make sure everybody gets justice: · �STREETVIBES April 2008 Community News 7 Housing from page 1 program for chronically hom~less in­ for Over-the-Rhine Com­ div.i.duals - as well as McMicken munity Housing,thecityof Dental Clin ic and a FreeStore/ Cincinnati, the Model FoodBank program. The NuBleod Group and others who Building is also the proposed site ofa have co Ilaborlltively non-profit labor hall and new offices stepped up to the plate in for the Interfait h Workers Center. away thatbenefrts the resi­ The new transitional units on dents," says Pat Clifford. McMicken will house individuals who general coordinatorofthe have recentlygraduated from the Drop Drop 1nn Center. " ! am Inn Center's substance abuse pro­ very excited co see the new gram. 1l1e building boasts a spacious facility, and I koow the fu­ interi.or Iiving space, abundant green ture residents arc eager as space and highly qualifie.d ar0tmd-the­ well." clock support. Located at the comer Split between two buildings. all. of of 12th and Elm, the Drop the un its arc efficiency apartments InnCenter is in the middle ranging from 350 to 568 square feet of redevelopment orga­ each. With bamboo wood floors and nized by the Cincinnati tile i.n the kitchen and bathroom. these Center City Development w1its look more like luxury apartments Corp., better known as than trans itional housing. Each apart­ 3CDC. These new trans itional hous­ Above: Cu111rt1c101':f put the ji11/shi11g Wuc'h"° 011 a 11t1w apar1111e111.for the Drop !1m Cu11N!r~~ trau.\'itinnt.1{ /i\·ing. 8e/1nt "Fl1i! 1ra1u·ltin11al housi11g i.o:t located at ./5 and -17 E. ment has its own full bathroom and an ing un its are only the first steps in a Jv/c1Vlicke11 S1it!1H. Pho1ographs by Lynne Ausman. equipped kitchen with a stove. refrig­ long lineofimprovcments occurring at erator, and circulating hot water pump. the Drop Inn Center. Each unit also The center is has two closets "The Drop Inn Center is making a concerted and rcsident­ effort to be good grateful for Over-the.­ c on tr o 11c d neighbors as they Community Rhine heating and begin planning for Housing, the city of cooling. The ca1>ital improve­ Cincinnati, the Model ments with Miam i units arc wel­ coming, with University arch itec­ Group and others who many windows ture students. which have collaboratively thatbring in lots stepped up to the plate in would move the front door. create ofnatural light. a way that benefits the office spaqc in the In add ition residents." basement and con­ to these ameni­ ,,._ tie.s, the units - Pat Clifford, general coordinator strucr a courtyard of the Drop Inn Center for residents. The also have some impressive se­ Drop Inn Center is curity features. Strategically placed also expanding its services to iucl.ude I cameras wi.11monitor the entire prop­ on-site ease management for longer­ 7 erty. Each unit is also equipped with tenn residents. double-hung windows that open from Overall, it seems that moving the the top, allowing air to circulate but transitional housing units is a win-win preventing anyone from easily fall ing situation.The new school will be situ­ out - or climbing in. In addition, ated on the entire block from Race to ") ,., rather than a trad itional metal key, the Elm and Twelfth to Central Parkway, ·~ entire building is equipped with key and the new transitional housing is lo­ cards, such as those used in hotels. cated in an upgraded faci lity nearother On-site staff wi ll program key cards. services needed by the new residents. "The Drop Inn Center is grateful 1 : - I _j - ·I Place Your Ad Here! Come and have a cup of coffee and enjoy a relaxing atmosphere at 1506 Elm St. Monday - Friday 5:00 pm - 9:00 pm Saturday 8:00 a m - 5:00 pm Sunday 12:00 pm - 5:00pm Phone # (51 3) 381-3368 With sales ofStreetvibes continuaJJy on the rise, and circulation reaching 5,000 monthly in the Downtown and Clifton area, now is the time to advertise. Rates are as cheap as $50 for an advertisen1ent this size. Discotu1ts available for non profits and paying up front. Streetvibes is sold by vendors which n1eans that nearly every paper we print gets into the hands of readers Interested in advertising with Strectv ibes. contact 513.421.7803 x 12 or email Slfeetvlbes2@yahoo.com �8 STREETVIBES Vendor Artwork and Poetry April 2008 Where do I go? uv Hou,v P,rn1<1:11 promise afterpromise ihcar some did draw me near o1fi ran rightotl'rhctrain otl'thcbus into what i 1hought was a friend's heart my boys i brought with new hope knowing no matter whm we could cope justto get there whileeveryonedid stare to find outjoke for i1 was all broke you ciu,.tstay ra11gall 1hcway lo the homeless sheller for no1hing better now what where do i go. whm do i say. Cosmic Star BY ANTONlO H ODGE S TREETVJBES V ENDOR Cleo's Joke Corner There was a Christian lady, who quoted scriptures day and night One night athie:f came into rob her, and she said Acts 2:38 five times. So the thieffroze in his foot steps, a little while later a policeofficer showed up and asked thethief why he didn'lleave. The thiefsaid I thoughttheold lady said she had an ax and two 38's (guns). Cleo selling at 5th and Wa/11111 \Nhen I was six years old, I was in my mother's kitchen. I was staring at ajar of orangejuice on top ofthe table for 10 hours. My brother asked me what l was doing, Tsaid can't you see I am looking at the jaroforangej uice on lop of thetable. He said yeah, but why I0 hours. Tsaid can' l you re-ad the label on the jar says " I 00% <.'Oncentra1e., There was a Christian who went into tbeforest to shoot a bear. \~'hen he spotted a bear he sliot him th.rec times but it did not die. He took off running and the bear chased him. When he foll hesaid, ·'Oh God let t11is be aChristian bear." TI1ebear fell on his knees and said "Oh God tbank you for this food.,. There were 3 1omatos - mamma tomato, daddy lomalo, and teenage tomato. They were walk ing up ahill and teenage tomato always kept getting out ofline. Daddy 10111ato said ifyou keep doing that l an1 going to give you a whipping. He did it again. so daddy 10111ato look a stick and smashed him all over the place. Daddy to111a10 said now he will catch up. �STREETVIBES Vendor Artwork and Poetry April 2008 9 Abstract ball To Scott BY A NTRONY \V 1.LJJAMS Writers !~ submit your poetry to Streetvibes ­ email your writing to streetvibes2@yahoo.com r:a:JI The hunt is on .... UY llOLLY pAllKER 111c hunt is on.... roofi mustflnd tecls Like looking foragold mine no car can ' tgo too for two littlemen in I.ow which wav, do we "0 "' promise this promise that tl1ey say then it"sjustgo away so where do we stay in school theysay kids must be whalaboutme ifi don 'ttojail igo but address i must have paper this ru1d paper that to prove here i live somed1ing no one wants to give a Faith in God i must hav.: for no othercan deliver anew place new face just a part ofthe hwnan race promises were made be.fore we came now il's just a slmme for now homeless we are............ Berta's Art Corner "Ohio River Skyline" CtNClNNATl, 0 HJO �Columns 10 STREETVIBES April 2008 A Culture of Poverty? Controversial theory has some usefulness for addiction ack in the '60s, peopl e be_gan to kick around a concept known as the Michael culture of poverty. The notion was that Hen.son is the poor. because of the ir condition. live aufhor of a se_parate 111anner of existence fro111 the Ransack, A rest of society, that poverty creates i ts Small Room own culture and the dynamics of that cul­ with Trouble ture can be identified and measured and 011 My Mi11cl, that th is culture is identifiable across what Tlze Tao of we th ink of as cultures. Longing, and According to thi s notion, you might Crow Cal.I. look at New York City and Mexico City This colu.mn and see, in the ghetto and i n the barrio, is part of a the sa111e essential dynamic i n spite of di.f­ mo11thly fere-nces in the larger cu ltures. Poor series on co.m111unities, the theory said. arc poor in poverty and the same way; poor people-, th e theory addiction. said. are Iikcly to relate to each other and the wor ld in the sa me way, north and south. east and west, if they arc part of the cuIture of poverty. lt makes sense. i f you consider th e notion that rich pco1,1c, too , tend t o op­ erate in the same manner worldwide. that there cou ld be a l'arallel culture of wealth , which would help explain why people fro111 cultures as disparate as Texas and Saudi Arabia can get along so well. why George Bush and Prince Faud arc such great pals. The term was created by anthropolo­ gist Oscar Lewis. who studied poor comm unities i n New York, Mexico, Puorto Rico and "When you have that Cub\l. In spite of combination of addiction obvious differences in relig ion, social and poverty, it is almost structure. econom­ impossible not to feel ics and language, powerless, marginalized Lewis found that and helpless , because in there we re strong!y some measure, you are." similar patterns in each community as the poor struggled to survive. " The people in the culture of poverty;· he said. " have astrong feeling ofmargin­ al iry, of hel plessncss, of dependency, of not belonging. They are like aliens in the ir own country, convinced that the existi ng institutions do not serve their interests and needs. A long w i th lh is feeling ofpowcr­ 1essnes s is a widespread fee ling of inferiority, ofpersonal unworthiness. ·'This is true of the slum dwel lers of Mexico C ity, who do not cons titute a dis­ tinct ethnic or racial group and do not B Poverty and Addiction by Michael Henson suffer from racial discrimination. In the United States, Lhe culture of poverty of the N egroes has the additional disadvan­ tage of racial discrimination. People wiih a culn1re ofpoverty have very little sense of history. They are a marginal people who know only their own troubles, their own local condi tions, their own neighbor­ hood, t.hcirown way of life. Usually. they have neithe.r che knowledge, the vision nor the ideology to sec the simi larities be­ tween their problems and those of others like themselves elsewhere in the world. I n other words, th ey are not cl ass con­ scious. although they arc very sc,nsitive indeed to status distinctions. ·· v.·11en the poor become ·class con­ sci ous or members of trade union organizations, or when they adopt an in­ ternationalist outlook 011 the worl d they are. in my view, no longer part of the cu.1­ turc ofpoverty although lhcy may still be desperately poor." So111e of thi s might sound l ike gross stereoty ping, and Lewis and his culrnre of poverty thesis have taken a beating over the years from critics who consider hi m (and others who have taken up rhe notion) as blaming the poor for their pov­ erty. Lewi s, they said. focused on rhe tlaws ohhe poor rather tban on the struc­ nires of society that demand rhat so111e be made poor so that others be made rich. Lewis was a man of the l eft, though. and his sympathies were w i lh the poor. He is notable for the way he presented his research. More often than not, he gave us the stories of the families he studied in their own words. His wr i tings are more like novels than anthropological srudies. I recall , for example, the story of a young secretary in Mexico City and her beloved typewriter. Lewis comes offin these writ­ ings as compassionate and non-judgmental. People who might oth­ erwise bavc no voice tell their own stories Interested i11 helping with Streetvibes? Are you a writer, poet, attist, orphotographer'? Do you want to help Streetvibes? Call 513.421.7803 xJ 2 or e1naiJ streetvibes2@yahoo.com through his work. Lewis also sta ted clearly that not all who arc poor are in the cu lturc of poverty. The secretary with her typewriter. for ex­ ample, wou l d be among those who arc ..no longer part of the culture ofpov­ erty although they may still be desperately poor." He found that in Cuba people were desperately poor. blll they were cn.ergized ai1d empowered and not at all in the static, discmpowercd culture ofpoverty. So what can we make of all thi s? We have a cl ose student of po verty with a great empathy for the ir cond ition, yet many thinkers dispute his principle notion as t1awcd, stereotypical and judgmental. Herc·s where I go w ith it. I don ·1 bc­ 1ieve Lhat such a thing as the culture of poverty exists. .l bel ieve that what Lewis was looking at was the intersection of povert y and addiction . If you substi tute theterm " people in addiction" for " people in the culture of poverty." you don' t get a perfect match, but you get one close enough to get you think ing. The addict or alcoholic feels power­ less. unworthy, marginalized. though he or she might appear to be the most social of all humans. Add the obstacles of poverty into the mix. and it can seem that people are em­ bedded in their poverty. l n one of his essays, Lewis srrings a long list of char­ acteristics of those in the culture of poverty, and yoi1can sec an almost onc­ to-one match with fain ilics and individuals struggling with alcoholism and addiction l fthere is such a thing as poverty w ith dignity. it can only be when the fami ly in poverty is nol impacted by alcohol and drugs. w·hcn you have that combination of addiction and poverty, it is almost im­ po ssible not to feel powerless. margi nal iz.ed and. helpless, because i n some measure. you arc. Not totalIy - - no oneever is. But fro111 this point of view. there is no real culnire of poverty . There is on ly poverty im­ pacted by addiction. There need never be an y such thing as a seeming cu l ture of poverty if we as a society cou l d develop the capacity to address poverty and ad­ diction together. Please be sure to only purchase a Streetvibes from a vendor wearing a white or yellow badge. �STREETVIBES Columns April 2008 11 Plenty of Fear to Go Around rifice.d? T h e spread of fear through­ out the nation is c rodi ng Sunderland our l10pe for a predictable American fu­ narc. In every m:\jor city, average citizens, going to work, face outrageous fuel prices 'tor their cars on top of ridiculous heat­ ing fuel prices. · Anyone going to the grocery store knows that the cost of food has jumped to high levels. In every neighborhood, any citizen knows that people are just walkirrg away from their homes, unable to pay their mortgages and unable to bear the reality of dramatica ll y falling home prices. The newspapers and TV news say chat the worst is n'CH over. Banks, with or without federal help, might Peace Village by Steve T he. events of the past weeks, days and minutes are downright scary. Who is in charge of our economy when U1e banks fail? Who is in charge ofour universities wbea American students are blocked from getting financial aid? What accounts for the failure of the employment sector to generate jobs for average people? Can the c.an d id ates for president do anyU1ing exeept add to the fear that U1e world cannot be led by an American? On the fi~b anni­ versary of the wa r in Iraq, can anyone clearl y say why one more Iraqi or American life should be sac- not stem the slide toward confusion. The basic question comes back to this: Who will stand against fear? Now is the time for local leaders to come together and face the housing, heating, college cost, unemployment and leadership crisis affecting every community. The bottom has been falling out for some time. Middle-class people, 47 million, have been without health care for quite some time. TI1c mort­ gage crisis has been serious in our neighborhoods bu t who has taken it seriously? Poverty and hunger are up in our city, an d the FreeStore FoodBa.nk has been trying to meet the need with every creative ea m­ paign it could launch. But the lines are getting longer and the pcopl·e more frustra ted. College students are graduating with ·tens of thou­ sands of dollars of debt. Ne'ither national leaders nor local officials have attended Lo this de.pressing news. Our situation is dire: The middle and poor classes are now in the same boat, and it's leaking. Now is thctime to stop fear from spreadiog one more block. Instead, a new leadership coalition of business, col­ leges, banks, neighborhood groups and city leaders must come together to lead a way through the minefield ofdanger. ll1ere can be no peace in such a sin1ati on if it is unattended. Leaders, awake! Dr. Sunderland. fo rmerly Dean of the UC College of Community Services and a Professor of Social Workfor the past 21 years ~11 UC, is Director and Founder of The Peace Village. a Cincinnali based peace network fo unded after !he riots and expanded after 9111 to work on peace and hettling. For more information on !he Peace Village programs. please write: sundersc@emaiI.uc. ed11 Lack of Leadership Deep-Sixes City Sweeps Policy The city of Seattle's sweeps policies are 1noving toward finality. Now the state, not to be outdor1e, is getting into the act Bv AOAM H YLA SritEST News SERVICE It was a ma5ter case ofbad timing. Persistent questioning by Real Change revealed th is month that the state of Washington was working on guidelines to make sure the kind ofaccident that killed Tsaac Palmer June 2 didn't hap­ pen again.When they outlined what U1e.y were up to, people at the Washington State Department of Ttansportation (WSDOT) were upbeat Here was the agency on whose watch U1e rotary blades ofa brushcutter stnrck Palmerin tJ1e head. killing him in­ stanlly, as he lay out ofsight beneath 1-5 on Sat. June 2, 2007. Palmer's death by machine was a horrid instance ofwhat happens when aggressive policing pushes the poorest members ofourCQ111munity outofsight 111cscguidelines, released eight monlhs later, were supposed to be evidence or lessons leamed. On Feb. 14 WSDOT called to say the guidelines were ready. Then, that same momi11g, U1eycalled back. Another homeless man had been killedon thesite of a freeway project. Ralph Edward Vantine, 61 , of Snohomish, was crushed under a 60­ toot man Irft- dcad, said the Snohornish County Med ical Examiner, ofhead in­ juries. Another homeless man killed this yea r by WS DOT neg Iigence. Disturbing news. The guidelines, re­ leased a fuw days Imer. didn 't make me feel any better. r sbould have known trouble was coming when WSDOT described the city of Seattle's recently drafted en­ campment clearance protocol as its model. Mostly,the agency is telling contrac­ tors involved in construction work in areas where homeless people are known to camp to post signs 72 hours before work begins. Social-service workers need not show up; ihough the city and local shelters will be contacted. there 's IitUe reason foranyone Lo walk up to m1 underpass and get to know its inhabit­ ants. Where would they tell them to go? City officials and social-service work­ ersalike know-though the fom1erhas spent untold time denying this - t11a1 there ·s not enough s.helter. There is also the obligatory pickup-truck sized loophole. "Crewscheduling,emer­ gency repairs mid removal ofnuisances" will send advimce notice sailing out the window."'Sites where maintenanceoc­ curs on a frequent but rm1dom basis will be posted ·No Trespassing..,. Tnmslation: Never mind the Fourth Amendment protection against the sei­ zme ofyour things or the state law that provides for the storage and reposses­ sion ofproperty ·'abm1doned" in public spaces. We' II take your stuff when we foel we need 10 . ll1e NoTrespassingsign spray-painted to thisco11erete abutments is waming enough. Which th ey already do. Real Change staff witnessed one of those operations Feb. 12where1-5 cuts un­ der Pike and Pine s treets. as court-assigned community service workers took and loaded into unmarked trucks poor people's survival gear. Mat­ tresses, sleeping bags, pillows, clothing and otl1er personal effec-ts went into the tuunarked trucks. No signs ofany kind had been posted to warn people ofan upcomingsweep. Everything went to lh.c landtill. A little north ofthat spot, a "clean­ ing" crew had been d1rough twicea week earlier t<> oust a group of campers. Amon.g the bunch were t\•O Real Change vendors, both ofwhorn wound up hospitalized for health problems re­ lated to exposure. Department ofCorrections (DOC) personnel have expressed some moral ambivalenceabounhis work. Throwing away personal articles is ·'ki nd of a waste," one staffer told me last year. If itsticks in the DOC's craw, YOlJ know it's adirtybusiness - andone that, one can't help speculating, took smnc toll on city 1-1 uman Services Department head Patricia Mel nturff, who announced her reiirement Feb. 22. Mel nturffhas been the city's desig­ nated shit-taker on the beete.d-up sweeps protocol that's moving toward its final iteration. It was a ham-handed and sardonic move by Team Nickels to putihe kinder, genilcr vis.ageofthe city's social-service bureaucracy in nominal charge ofwhar"s basically an actoflaw enforccmcnL I suspect Mel nturff is try­ ing to exither 30-yearcareer with a whit ofintegrity and has omoaded the taskof issuing a new policy ofcriminalization to someone with less to lose. Mclnturtrs departure highlights the absence ofother publicly designated voices ofconscience.Absent prominent public criticism, tl1e cicy is being propped up as a standardbearer for a process that WSDOT wi ll soon enact across the state. The silence ofthe Committee to End Homc.le&~ness makes th is possible. That's a searing reminder that ending homelessness is a task for al Iofus. The message from city and state agen­ cies as prosaic as City Light and WSDOT, as they develop their '·proto­ cols" and their "guidelines," is that unshelt.cred homeless people are now on the map: Homelessness is not a break­ down of our commonwealth but an impediment' to be worked around, a (to use Team Nickels' preferred phrase) public health and public safety hazard. A thing not to be ended, but managed. Reprintedfrom Real Change Ii,) SlrrJet N!!ws Service: www.sireet-papers.org �12 In The News New Hampshire: National News STREETVIBES April 2008 "Winter Soldier" Converges on Washington Veterans of Iraq and Afghanjstan hope to reprise Vietnam-era event nv CvDNE\' G11.,1,1s Homeless Man.in·D umpstcr En·d sup in T.rash..Iruck sonalilies in our plaroon who were they were lnJpefu l," Manzel says. regu larly being brutal with regular ·'After months of no runn ing water, citizens,'" he says. Soldiers "were it became clear to them that (the in­ &hQmeless man whoi.1ad been uring March 13-16 2008 , beating up people on the street for vasion) was a sham, that we were s.leeping in a'C0ncord dumpster for Winter Soldier: Iraq and Af­ n·o reason." not going to rebui ld Iraq and had no lwo-,vee.ks>was.suddenlyawakehed ghanistan , a first-of- its-kind That's j ust the start of what intention ofdoing so. That's when as he was being tossed into a trash­ conference·oflraq Veterans Agains1 Manzel has to say about what's they turned aga inst us.,. compacting truck. P:oJjce s:ay 41­ lhe War (IVAW) took place near wrong with the U.S. occupation of One task that Manzel's unit was year-.old Guy Stevens had been Washing1on, D.C. Veterans gave Iraq. Manzel flew tcra college near assigned to didn ' t help. With gaso­ sleeping i11tbedowntown dumpstef lestimon ies on various panels, to be Washington, D.C., to give testimony line in shortsupply, many Iraqis wait for about two weeks, and he,had thus streamed Iive on th e Internet and at Winter Soldier: Iraq and Atghani­ in line and fill up c·onrainers to resell fii,r managed~o:getoot Qi:jfuretlieirnck reco rded for later presentation to stan, named after a historic I 97 I gas on the street, providing some arrived. This particular morning, members ofCongress. gathering of Vietnam veterans in cash in a nation running. at 70 per­ however, it arrived early. Stevens· The conference aimed to open Detroit. cent unemployment. But the suffered n:iinor Injuries and was American eyes to Plans called black-market sales weren' t legal, so spo~ed limping.d6wn thestreetafte't the regular and for 100 IVAW in Mosul, ·•rt was our job to make " After months of no jumping aut ofthe truck. (Concord systemic atrocities members to sure people didn ' tdo !hat,.. Manzel running water, it Aifonito.r. 31 L) lhat soldiers com­ speak, including says. " We would go andlell them to became clear to them Man ze l. An- stop scllin.gg·as·and put ho les in the mit in Iraq - acts lhat are commit- that (the invasion) was other l 50 gas can, but after a whi le people a sham, that we were California: 1ed by soldiers planned 10 at­ were doing this habitually and (some tend as soldiers) started getting brutal." Google to P.rovide Free Phone trying'to survive not going to rebuild an urban guerilla witnesses be­ In a couple ofsituations, he s·ays, Numbel"S and VoicemaiJ for Iraq and had no war that the fore var ious stray bullets tired by soldiers killed Romele$S intention of doing so. United States is panels. civilians. Another rime. "They took That's when they Like the a kid and poured gasoline on him Projeet CA RE, ereatedin 2006 . involved in only turned against us." for private profit Viecnam veter- and were threatening to set him on byGrandCentral COmmu1\icatioos­ ans before him, fire. sinee aequired t>y Google-works and needs to exit immediately for its own securi1 y Manz.el hopes his words he lp open ..Tc's not as though the people to provide·pe1111anent phone numbers Seth Manzel isn' t a bad man. He. American eyesto the atrocities that doing th is were bad people - they and voicemail services to the homeJess. Craig Walker, a· senior was just a soldier caught up in a bad so.ldiers commit in Iraq. Such inci­ were all good guys, they had fam i­ projecl manager .a.r doogle, war. That·s how the 28-year-old dents are notthe isolated work of lies - but they were being misused. recognizes this as "one way that former Army sergeant regards the " bad apples,,. he and others say, but When you· re having soldiers who've GramiCe ntral can help San violence he says someofhisfellow part and parcel ofsoldiers 1rying to been tra ined to fight a conventional enemy and you put lhem in basically Francisco'shemel'essstayconnected soldiers inflicted on civilians in Iraq, survive an urban guerilla war. "We make more terrorists every­ a law-enforccment·situation, this sort with family,:friends,,social workers, where he served from November health care providers and potential 2004 co Sep1ember 2005 with the day," says Manze l, a Tacoma ofthing happens." security guard who says he joined ''It's a narural consequence," he employers." Google !auncbed·a Web 25th lnfantry Division. After being sta1ioned in the city the Army because he was out of adds, of a war being fought not ro siteth(ough which homelessshelters and agencicsariross the citycsan create of Tali far - where he says lraqi work and had no way to support his rout Al Qaeda terrorists - who are few and far between in Iraq, Manzel new accounts an<! ultimately hopes"to rebels outnumbered U.S. troops 600 wife and child. Neither do most people today in says - but to enrich contractors provide the5e.invaluableservieest0 · to 200 - lhe men on his patrol c:ities1111<1 shelters·across theieountry." didn't have the luxury ofdistinguish­ Iraq, where he describes horrib.le such as KBR and Halliburton. ·'Even if yo u're for the war," he (Soott C301pooll, Chan11elWeb, 2f19) ing between friend or foe and had conditions: cities with I ittle eleetric­ curned brutal with every Iraqi they ity, hospitals with few doctors or says, ..there's probably more active encountered. supplies and people bathing and A I Qaeda in New York City than in It really showed up, Manzel washing dishes in what are essen­ Iraq:· New York: says, when he was transferred to the. tially open sewers running down Subway Ad Campaign SaysNo much calmer city ofMosul, where streets and ravines. Reprinted.from Real Change to Spare Change for Homeless he and others experienced a sudden "When we first got there, people \~) Stree t News Service: www.street-paper.1'.org A new ad campaign displayed in "reality check" that "there were per- were positive about us being there, tile eity's subways rells New Yorkers not fo giveaoy spare change to the SO I TOOi( (QMfl(JTER 1MADE $Z2 PER HOl,JR (I.ASSES ANO NOW I 110n1eless, butratherto call 31 I. Mayor IN THE STEEl Mill VNTlL EARN $7 PER HOU~. Bloombergsaid, "Ci ivingn1oney to a I WAS LAID~OFF. panhandlermay ~m compassionate, Learn but (is-) really not helping,that person long-term:· There ·has been a 12 about -percent decrease in the number of other street homeless people on the streets and subways, though many of'the new newspapers shelters,thataccoum for this decrease l''v'E A(J.llE'v'Et> SOON A MORE SOPHISTiCATEt> have been created in illegal at STATE-OF-THE-ART­ (QMfl(JTER Will 'boardinghouses. In reality, "the only UNEMPLOYMENT. ELIMINATI MY JO~. WWW. genuine soluli0n ... is the creati011 of additional -permanent supportive nasna housing for homeless New Yorkers." (K:l'isten'Danis, Daily News, 315) .org STRP.ET N EWS SP.RVICr: D �S TREETVIBES Apri l 2008 International News All In the Mind: Who Cares? ll\' NANC\' STONE STREITT N EWS SERVICE ancy Stone is exhausted and des perate. Why? Her husband bas bi­ polardisorder.She wants to dispel some myths about mental illocss. The word is ' carer'. Sounds kinda ... caring, doesn 't it? lt's a five-letter word thai describes someone wilh a nurn1riog soul, saint-like patie.nce and buckets ofpositivity. Well,"f'm sorry to breakthe myth but itjust ain' t likethat. As ·it isfor lhose under ourcare, we car­ ers fo1d ourselves thrown into a bowl, covered in shit to the pointofdrowning aod tben,justwheo we think we've risco to the surface to take some air, we are gobbled up bysome otherdrama We are nonnal peoplc.ll1eones you probably work next to, the ones you consider your friends, the people you ti.link you know. Not everycarer has his or her life on display and attends open supportgroups. ll1e.re are maoy"closet carers"just like me, and by die way r·m not elderly aod nor do Jstay at home all day ·'caring."(Why d~ everyone tl1ink ti.us?) My husband and l arc bod.1 in our late30s and we hold demandingjobs, but my husbaodsuftcrs from bipolardis­ order.1-lis condition swings up and down as we.search for the elusive mixofmedi­ cations that actuall y work for him, and tliere's tbestruggleofaccepting d1e fact that hccan' tselfmedicate as hes;,-es fit. Some carers. like me, are not an­ gels- far from it. As tbr patience, mine runs out frequently and is replaced with anger, tears and a head that spins faster tl.1ao Unda Blair's in The Exorcist. Oh, but 1'm notsupposed to admit that, am l? l' m supposed to be a cahnfog inilu­ ence with the poise of Florence Nigbtiogale as J care for my charge. I hate tO dispel lhe myth, bui caring for someone with a mental ii lness such as bipolar is a ~hecr fuck.ing nightmare at the best oftimes. Far from having the patience ofa saint, I have often contem­ plated tlic amountofspace in my freezer and the typeofmacbinery 1wouldneed to dismember my husband. Thjnk I' m joking? Toften wonder whether it's me or b.iJn wid1 the mental iUness. Because ofhi.s condition, my hus­ band swi.ngs from depression to a state of mania (a bipolar high). when he be­ lieves he is trulygifted aod will dinewid.1 pre.sidents. Many "bipolars" can feel ti.icy are Cltrist-like figures. But I can be the same. l honesti y believe l 'rn gi:lted evenjustto survive a day. After all, 1' m the one who keeps tl.1ings on track, who goes to work, gets him to work, keeps the day under con­ troland keeps tilings moving. Bipolars, when "cycling" through their moods, are often useless in daily life. Fortunately, my husband is able to work without anyone noticiogb.is con­ ditionor how it migh1 be impacting upon h.is work.. But for me, the care.r, there is the const11nt worry and the anal <mnver­ N sations that dissecteach day to ensure up. I"mexhausted and mentally fucked he is not threatenir~ his job. So much before I leave the front door. for·' Hi honey, how's your day?" Acarer It's a painstaking climbfrom "I just doesn 't even get that much. When my can't seethe point in living" to ''Yeah, husband is beading i.oto mania, be will today wasn'ttoo bad." AJJ in all we Iive a good I ife, good sleep less and manage to do ri­ holidays, agood mix " Some carers, like me, d i cu I o us Iy offriends, two great unproducti ve are not angels - far from petS that we.love,so stuff such as it. As for patience, mine there is so much for vacuuming the runs out frequently and my husband to Iive garage, but he for. is replaced with anger, can't be practi­ Therein Iies rny tears and a head that eaI enough to conundrum. I-las spins faster than Linda deal ing with his make the bed or Blair's in The Exorcist." mental illness made wash the dishes, letalone contrib­ me just as mental? ute to a'·' nom1al relationship." As a carer, 1often d1ink I've tipped over The sad tb.ing is that wbcn be is u1 a tbc edge. I have days wheo l can be state of mania, he is able to do things optimisticand think wewrn find die an­ oorrnally beyond his abiUty- liencc the. swers and my husband will 1.iveafulfilling attraction ofwanting to come offmedi­ life and that I will gel rewarded for my cation. He can read a menu and loyalty in sticking by h.im, watching bi rn remember everything we 've ordered, get better and stay better. ingredients included: he is able to hold Butthoseare tlie positivelycharged intelligent conversations with peop.le. days and they are interspersed widi die TI1.is, ofcourse. makes him foe! llke lie is negative, down-the-fuck.iJ1g-gurgler an interesting person and tliat peoplelike days. llie days that youjust don 'thave h.iot Tmet 11.im wbeo hewasslightly de­ tbe energy to fight anymore. The days pressed, butas he cycled iJ1to astate of when people unlmowinglysay,"Smile, mania I teU in love with hlm ancl although precious, tbe world won' t end today!" I knew about his illnes,s, I had no idea And you srnneextravagantlyto shutthem how much he was affected byselt:medi­ up when you actually want to traosplant eation. So, in reality, l maiTiedsomeone them instantly into your lifeto 1ive with a I dido't really know. It's ironic because. self-medicatingfruit loop and see how 1tumcd down several other.greatguys well they react because l thought he was ' tbc right one' So why do I stay? Well, after six years I' m having a hard time finding a ... Sowho's thc.fruitloop then? Patience d.irough h.is mania is as ex­ reason. Ts .it because J hate failurc.and hausting as it is heartbreaking. He will won' t give up, or am I just bloody stu­ ask me to "'hang lo diere with bim," tell­ pid? How dumb is it to stay with ing methrough the tears that"he knows someoneyouhave no controlover whil.e bestand th.is time will be different- be tbey arcshaping- and ruining- your has beaten tl1e illness." As the carer, J lira? know too well that, when th.ings turn People oJtcn say, "\\'here there 's again, I ' II be needing a secure patiem life, there's hope." Butwhat kind oflife room i.1.1 the ..closed ward." and there's arc they talking about? TIJ.is is not the the fact d1atthei:earcn'1enough beds at kind ofl ife I had pemicd for myself. A11 any given pointin time.And what about l know is that I feel raw paio aod guiJt the mortgage'! And what about keeping for having hated my husband lately­ hisjoh? Oh, the Jjes 1've told (ilus and really hated h.inl - for what be has put other nasty dilemmas), but not"sorry, 111Cand hisfamily through. Butdie heart­ my husband has a mental illness .. . 1'm breaking thing is be hates bimsclfmore ~urc you 'll understand" because,sadly, than any of us could. I know they won 't. Sadly, most of us Mental ilJJ1ess breaks more than don' t. minds; it breaks hearts and makes Fortuoatelyfor me, Ill.istune.arouod dreams disintegrate. It destroys hope (his cycles are appro-ximately every six and ruins fam.ilies. Iknow there arc very months - maniaand then depressioo few pt.'Ople who could give my husband andaroundagain likedie fucking mcrry­ the future we originally had in mind, and go-round from hell) l have the support eveu fewer with the stamina to keep of his family. We weren'i always onthe going. sao1e page, but now we are, d1ank God. [would .like to have ended on a Although my husband has only been positive note. Bunoday, Iike many days hospitalised tour times (twice sincervc as a carer, I just don 'tfoel positive. and been with him) the last time really took Tdon't care who knows it. its toll and 1· ve realised how exhausted and broken I am. * 'Nancy Stone' is a pseudonym; Atthe moment my husband isgoiog all else is rca.I. through depression, and it's debil itating for bothofus. He struggles to sec area­ Reprintedfrom The Btg son to get out of bed and I spend my Issue Australia time trying- gently at first, pleading, © Street News Service: crying and then screaming- to get him www.street-papers. org 13 In The New s - Cont Louisiana: "Homeless Czar" '.iburs New O cieans. Prom,ises No Funding For tbeJitsttime'since Hurrie:ruie Katrina, the Btt~h administration's '·HomelessCzar"- Philip Mangruio, executive director of the U.S.. Lnterage1icy Co·uncil 0 11 Homelessness - visited New Orleans. 1-Jetoµred astretclrofaventie· wbere roughly !Sb homeless 1mfo1iduals have beenlivingintents for several months. May(Jr RayNagin ru1dme!11bers ofcity council metwith Mangano to dis:Cuss their plan tobouse tliecolm)y in bar.rack-style living quarter:> that would provide beds, meals andcare as a step in (ecuperation from the devastation ofHmricane Katrina. Mayor Nagin advocates this plan_ beJievi11g_" the.s e are our mos t vulnerable-citizens. and they have to be1reatcd fairly,"espcciallydue:to tlie :fuctd1atthe city's homeless population dpubledas·aresult ofthe:burriCl!lle­ There are now an estimated 12,'000 individual$ experiencir,ig '10111e.lcss1X:SS in New Orleans. Despiteseeing the devastation and need for a5sistance firsthand_ however, Mangano promised no· immediate increase in federal funding_ bnt rather only 9omn1itfed to investigate.the use ofthe money that has been11.umelecLii;itqthe region.since· Katrina (John MorenoGonzales, AP, 3(4) Cl\lifornia: \Vere Targets or Criminal Activity Hornele~s Atkr afour-rnonth investigation into homel.ess camps, Fresno Police arrest ed 25 people who ware tarnet ing the homeless. The investigation begai1 in August \Vhen po.Iice noticed an increase in robberies aud aggravated assaults. Fotl rtcen of the 25 peeple ehar.ged were arre:sted on the suspicion of drug p0ssessioi1 and seJIing drugs. These non-homeless street people who were taking advantage of the homeIess were busted during an investigation on GaliforniaAvenue·and G Stre.et and Montereyand H Streelll. MayorAlanAutry fullysupported the investigation, \Vhich aimed to protect the homeless. Autry said, "Quite hon~tly, in thepolitieal world and everyday life. 11ieoften ig11orcand do not putemphasis onthe public safe.ty for the homeless ... We are here today to make a stateme11t~1at the cjty offrcsno believesevery one ofour ci.ti7.ens is preciou~, including our homeless, and are deserving of public safety." (Vanessa Colon, The Fresno Bee,3124) �Guest Column 14 STREETVIBES April 2008 Enquirer's Hit Job on Drop Inn Center nv SCOTT Go:E11E1. Scott Goebel lives i11 Campbell County, Kentu cky. He is a poet and CoNTR.IDUTlNG WRJTER s 1he Drop Inn Center A cclebra1cd its 30th anniversary a1 2lh and Elm streets, article, "Drop I Lhe In.fl Dropping Out?" by Jane Prendergast appeared in the.Jan. 12 landscaper. edition of The Cincinnati Enquirer. She asked readers to consider how the Drop I.on Center fits with the redevelopmentofOver-the-Rhine. The article assumes readers und e rstand tensions in the neighborhood and infers increased tensions once the new School for the Creative and Performing Arts opens and redevelopment proc<ieds in Over­ the-Rbinc. lt suggested the Drop Jn.n Center holds a primary responsibility to "manage its clie11ts." In suggesting the real issue was whether the Drop Ino Center should vacate Ovcr-the­ Rhine, Prendergast's article was a journalistic failure. An objective article would have presented a topic(redcvelopmcnt) and dis·cussed the issues - new jobs, housing, cultlua l tensions and gentrification ­ from both sides. "The use of language, The Enquire r selective sources and article was not purposeful omissions obj ective. Not show a remarkable bias only d id favoring redevelopment Prendergast forces at the expense of ignore the real the Drop Inn Center and ropic, she clearly came down on Over-the-Rhine the side of the residents." Cincinnati Center retired c t y Development Corp. (3CDC): The best way to el iminate problems in Over-the-Rhine is to "economical ly cle.anse'' the neighborhood (gentrify it), and moving the Drop lnn Center is a good start. The targetaudience for this article can be div ided into two sub-groups. The secondary audience is readers predisposed to sec redevi;lopment as a primary solution, and the primary audience is suburban readers who, though aware of con.tlict. lack a complete understanding ofits nature and depth. The secondary audience is keenly aware oft:he cultural tensions i.n Over­ the-Rh inc as well as a history of controversy surrounding the Drep Inn Center. Their prevailing view toward the Drop lnn Center is negative ­ seeing it as ·enabling homelessness, a.lcoho.lism and drug addiction. It is this audience to whom the article speaks directly - those who see no value in the Drop lnn Ce.nte.r's missinn. They identif)' with 3CDC, and the question ofwhether the Drop Inn Centershould move is a rhetorical one- itshoul-d. The primary audience has a casual understanding ofissues in Ovcr-the­ Rhinc an.d little understanding ofthe Drop Inn Center. The article appears to give insight by quoting voices from the center, Cincinnati City CounciI and 3CDC. While the article's secondary audience has an opinion and is unlikely to change its mind. this primary (and larger) au.dience is seeking infonnation to form an educated position. Jfthc secondary audience is the choir (who don't need to be preached to). then 1he primary aud ience is the congregation. particularly chose sitting some distance from the pulpit (the suburbs). Mo.re important is the audience that is ignored - the residents of Over-the-Rhine, the homeless and empathetic readers who support helping the homeless through the efforts of the Drop Inn Center and other social-service organizations. Understanding this. we begin to see the article has an agenda less to inform readers and more to swaythem to sec the question ofrelocating the Drop rn.n Center as legitimate. The use of language, selective sources and purposeful omissions show a rcniark'able bias favoring rcdevc lopment forces at the expense ofthe Drop Inn Center and Over-the­ Rhinc residents.The article is carefully crafted to be devoid of empath y, particularly toward the c.liems ofthe Drop Inn Center. rt uses much space quoting three redevelopment sources, the Ovcr-the~Rhine Foundation·s Mike Morgan. Councilman Chris Bortz and 3CDC President Steve Leeper, and gives only brief rebuttals from Drop Inn Center Director Pat Clifford. Nowncre are neighborhood concerns discussed. The article emphasizes the Drop Tnn Center's history of raising hackles at City Hall. and the text gets more colorful when describing ihe move lo its ctITTent location as being "'under the cover ofdarkness." While the Drop Tnn·s co-founder, buddy gray, has been dead for over I0 years, he's described in langt1age such as "'controversial," "protests," "allegationsthat he blocked redevelopment." The use of such language has negative connotations co a predominantly conservative reaclersh ip. As well, the text contains the words " development" and "redevelopment" six times- positive terms for her intended audicnce-s. As further proof that it is crafted to ignore readers inclined to defend the Drop Jnn Center and the social concerns of currentresidents. nowhere is the term "gentri:ficatipn" used. These choices serve to sway the primary audience to believe the sh~lter is either incapable or unwilling to make an effort to fit in with a redeveloped ne ighborhood. This leads the audience to conclude tl1e viability ofthe Drop Inn Center's current location should be "Clearly, the editors questioned. are looking for a The art icle knee-jerk response, also suggests the. not a carefully Drop I 1111 's role in considered one." ass istin g the downtrodden is less important than how it fits in with redevelopment efforts. Quoting the homeless Jacquie Eaton. the only homeless person in the arti~l e, would have been a prime. chance to show some empathy. Instead, she is quoted, "J hide in the alleys, anywhere to keep out of sigh1 so I don ' t go to jail." Eaton ·s own words are used to suggest that being homeless is itself a crime. Editorial actions indicate a pandering to the paper 's ta rget audience and an e.ditoriaJ slant agains1 the Drop Inn Center. The subtitle. "Some wonder if homeless shelter hurts Over-the-Rhine development'· invites readers to question the Drop Inn Ce111er's existence. Additionally. the paper 's Web s ite places a comment Iink righr atlcr tli.e text, asking reader ifthe Drop Inn should move. While this seems legitimate. che link appears before the ques tion is discussed. Clearly, the editors arc looking for a knee-jerk response, noc a carefully considered one. The article succeeds in prompting readers to a.grec that the Drop Inn s hould move by depending on testimon y from the force.s of redevelopment and by removing empathy from the discussion. It is effective in presenting 1he Drop Inn as a problematic institution that can only negativel y affect Over-the-Rhine's redevelopment. Its obvious lack of empathy prompted a number of in telligent responses, most notably Torn Dutton·s commentary (republished from the Cincinnati Beacon), which asked readers to consider empathy for the homeless as essential to understanding the complexities of the Drop lnn Center's role. r-------------------------------------------------------~ I I I I I Streetvibes ex ists as a foru1n for the express ion of the views and opi,nions of our readers and suppo11ers. The opin ions expressed here in are not necessarily those of the Streetvibes staff or the Greater C incinnati Coalition for the Hon1eless. I I I I I ~-------------------------------------------------------~ �STREETVIBES April 2008 Opinion 15 Lies My Government Told Me This war, as everyone now knows. was based on a series orlies: vo landmarks present themselve.s Traq possessed weapons ofmass de­ at the start or spring 2008: live struction and threatened world peace. years o.f war in Iraq and 4,000 dead Traq was in the process ofdeveloping American invaders. We find ourselves, nuclear weapons. Iraq had a hand in aner all this time and all thiskilling, with the terrorist attacks on Sept. 11 , 200 I. nothing at all to show for it-and no Now. five years after we attacked apparent way out. this poor, deJenseless nation, other Iies George W. Btlsh's remarks on the are being exposed. These lies Involve deathofthe 4,000th American invader all the basic services we've been told were a lie plain and simple, framed in our country can't afford. the kind oJrhetoricaJgrandiosity that Reports on the cost of the inva­ serves as a faux truth for a nation long sion and occupation oflraq tend to comfortable with hearing lies r:rom its hover around$ I trillion. leader. Imagine lrsomeone hadproposed "One day, people will look back spending one-tenth ofthat amount­ at this moment in history and say, $100 billion to eliminate ' Thank God there were courageous homelessness in the United Stat.es. The people willing to serve, because they notion would be laughed off as reck­ laid the foundations for peace for gen­ less spending. erations to come,·" Bush said. Imagine irsomeone hadproposed Does anyone actually believe that? spending one-tenth ofthat amount­ Bv G 11EGORV F LANNERY T $I 00 billion - to provide free col­ lege education to those· who can·1 afford it. The idea would be cons id­ ered preposterous . Imagine ifsomeone had proposed spending one-tenth ofthat amount­ $ I 00 bill ion- to provide health in­ surance for all Americans. There's no way we could afford it, they 'd say. The great lie ofour time is that this richest, this most powerful ofnations cannot afford to house, educate and care tor all its people. What the war in Lraq shows us is that this nation can damn wel l afford what it sets its mind on. We can come up with$! tri ll ion for acruel and pointless war if' we want it badly enough-or get suckered into it. The National Priorities Project (NPP) tracks the cost of the war and puts hin numbers we can more readily digest. So, for example, taxpayers in Ohio's Isl Congressional District have paid $924 mill ion for the war so far. The same amount ofmoney, the NPP says, could have: · provided 327,623 people with health care or • built 84 new elementary schools or • constructed 8,62 1 affordable housing unilS. It's important to remember, espe­ cially now that the economy is about to take another downturn, that the government has I ied all these years when it said we.cannot afford food , housing. education and health care on equal tenus for all. The problem isn 'I having enough 111oney. TI1e problem is how it's spent. Meanwhile in Cincinnati it's a struggle to getcity government to com­ mit a mere 1.5 percent of its budget to human services. War is hell. Book Review: Modern Day Slavery By Rober tTr autman Street News Service i e mass taking of slaves ended wiih thebanningoftheAtlanlictrat: ficking in humans nearly 200 years ago and, in the United States, legal slave•)' was abolished some 50 years later. But just making something illegal ·doesn' t necessarilyend it. Veteran antislaver Kevin Bales writes that even today. children aresent away into bondage to work 1.6 hours a day so we can have beau tiful rugs in our homes, and women are sold or ren ted forsex. ln"EndingSlavery: How We Free Today's Slaves" (University ofCalifor­ nia Press, 2007) Bales says, " Behind closed doors,in remote places and right underour noses, the slavery ofsome 27 million has continued, making people rich, reeding our liJ:estyles, and buming upourlives.,. But with positive economic trends worldwide and the growingacceptance of human rights, ·'if there ever was a tipping point when slavery cou ld be brought to a IUll stop it is now," hesays. Bales knowsorwhat be speakS. He ispresident ofFree the Slaves, the U.S. sist.er organization ot'Britain's Anti-Sla­ very International and author of " DisposablePeople: New Slavery in the Global Economy." People. by far children and young women, Bales writes, become slaves for money, money to support them­ selves and their fami lies, but little or noneofthemoney they earn goes into their own pockets. lnst.ead. it lines the pocketsoftheir holders. The parents ofa poor filmier arc approached by afactory owner and told hc has ajob for one of the sons; the T child will be cared for and will be able to send money home for rood and medi­ cine. Or a young rural woman is told of awel l payingjob in Ll1e city. which tums out to be that ofa prostitute. They are ill treated and threatened with violence if they should try to run away. They be­ come today'sslaves. Balt:s writ~ that this is notjust hap­ peningin lheThird World. but in ihe First, as well. We have all heard ofthe young girls brought to Tokyo for its ·'eniertain­ ment" industry - read prostitution:or nationalsbrought to Washington to work in embassies but theo virtually locked and stripped oftheir passports: and of Cen tral A111e1icans isolated in the farm fields ofCalifomia and Florida. Bui it is far worse in the Third World. Bales says, "Almosteverywhere you I.incl slavery iJ1 the developing world youfind policeor govemmemoflicialson Uie take or tuming a blind eye." Slavery is being fought by his orga­ nizalion, but far more needs to be done to end this by promoting education, health ruid good govem1m:nt. These are long-term solutions, but fornow. Bales callsfor: • Publicizing U1e work ofanlislavel)' forces in the Third World, which are ot~ ten persecuted or murdered. · Giving the antislavery forces the tools they need. Send money to the lo­ cal antislavers to buy bicycles or Jeeps or cell phones so they can communicate and getaround as quickly us the slavers. Do1i'tgo there yourself or as a group. as you might to help the victims or Katri11a. You younself cim ' Lfight a cor­ rupt bure;iucracy in Africa or Asia. • Makingdeveloping nationsaware ol'lhe extent ofslavery in U1eir countries, and lielping them to write laws to fight it and the tools to prosecute it. When a local liberntor can tum 10 the police and in theUnited States, but it came about point to acl ear violation orantislavery less than a hundred years later. law and when police know exactly how Bales sees thc end ofslavery com­ to enforce that law. "the flow ofslaves ing and quotes Martin Luther King to freedom will dr.imatically increase." Jr.when h.: was asked when equality · Training police in the developed mightcome: countries to step upenforcementoftheir ·1·fow long? Not long, becm1se the own antislavery laws as they have arc of the moral universe is long but it stepped up the prosecution of'narcotic bends toward justice." and computer crime. An estimated .17,000 people are traflicked into sla­ Reprintedfrom Street Sense very in the United States every year. © Street News Ser11ice: www.street­ ·Finding how lit."t!dslaves have been papers.org affected by their captivity and U1en find­ ing ways to trea t them. There arc treatment cen­ ters for victims of torture, but none for freed slaves. Bales may be overly opti­ n1istic that his way 10 encl sla­ very wi ll succeed, but he comes to l(•.11l k~lfitl.1I·" ,,,.,i:i;t;al ollld ll~plt .Jq the cause with b111JI; ,U!il )Vil W1!1 wide experi­ f1f';t'l1\lf::• 1!00 (hll ence, and any i:..-.1'11 hn•:i1 tn IU 'U.t l) tlD HI IU solution 10 a seemingly in­ 1r act ab I e problem must begin w ith a dream. He writes that none of these tasks is beyo11d us and notes that in 1776 few people envi­ sioned the end of the slavery ,\\l(llJ � Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource 2008 Text A resource consisting primarily of words for reading. Examples include books, letters, dissertations, poems, newspapers, articles, archives of mailing lists. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre Text. Original Format The type of object, such as painting, sculpture, paper, photo, and additional data Newspaper Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource April 2008 Subject The topic of the resource Homelessness Description An account of the resource Pg 1: Students Help on CUE A New Way to Live Pg 2: About Us Pg 3: The Vibe Pg 4: Shelter Just a Phone Call Away for Homeless Families Surviving Is Not Enough Pg 5: Peace Activists Turn Out in Force Pg 6: Cue Continued Standing Up to Assembly Line Justice Pg 7: Housing Continued Pg 8: Arts & Poetry Pg 9: Arts & Poetry Continued Pg 10: Poverty and Addiction Pg 11: The Peace Village Lack of Leadership Deep-Sixes City Sweeps Policy Pg 12: National News Pg 13: International News Pg 14: Enquirer’s Hit Job on Drop Inn Center Pg 15: Lies My Government Told Me Book Review: Modern Day Slavery Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Streetvibes Archive Project Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Streetvibes Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Greater Cincinnati Homeless Coalition Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource April 2008 Contributor An entity responsible for making contributions to the resource Gregory Flannery Greg Olkhovsky Michael Henson Steve Sunderland Andy Freeze Holly Parker Alyssa Konermann Cleo Wombles Scott Goebel Cydney Gillis Nancy Stone Adam Hyla Lynne Ausman Robert Trautman Andrew Anderson Berta Lambert Kavita Vinekar Antonio Hodge Anthony Williams Joe Wesels Steve Novotni Georgine Getty Michael Henson Stephanie Dunlap Steve Gibbs Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource PDF Activists Adam Hyla addiction Alyssa Konermann Andrew Anderson Andy Freeze Anthony Williams Antonio Hodge Arts & Poetry Berta Lambert Book Review Cleo Wombles CUE Cydney Gillis Drop Inn Center Enquirer Georgine Getty Government Greg Olkhovsky Gregory Flannery Holly Parker housing Joe Wesels Kavita Vinekar Lynne Ausman Michael Henson Nancy Stone Peace Village Protests Robert Trautman San Francisco Scott Goebel Seattle Slavery Stephanie Dunlap Steve Gibbs Steve Novotni Steve Sunderland Students Washington https://streetvibesarchive.net/files/original/1a17aad2f1bfbb1e6eb1e623ad228f10.pdf e1738a7bf5d4518b68bb8dfc003bb81e PDF Text Text Master Luthier in OTR Page 11 Gap Year Page 8 STREETVIBES $1 A p r i l 2 0 0 9 • I s s u e 1 5 3 • C i n c i n n a t i ’s A l t e r n a t i v e N e w s S o u r c e Healer and Brother Marianist doctor’s specialty is caring for homeless people By Paul KoPP Contributing Writer is located in an old mansion on Washington Avenue in Avondale, once owned by “some Brother Bob Donovan, kind of steel tycoon,” as DonM.D., has been giving medi- ovan puts it. Walking up the cal care to the homeless com- grand staircase, one can almunity in Cincinnati for 16 most imagine what the interior years. He was “instrumental of the house must have looked in starting like. the healthThe cen“A lot of times you know care syster sees exactly what the person tem for the about 130 needs but it’s just so patients homeless hard to get them in.” in Cincinyearly, the nati,” ac- - Br. Bob Donovan, M.D. majority of cording to whom are treated by Mary Beth Meyer, executive director of Donovan unless he is out of the Respite Center in Avon- town. The illnesses he treats dale. most often at the center in“He is such a gentle person, volve recovery from surgery, so humble that you wouldn’t broken bones and cellulitis, a necessarily ever get any of skin infection that usually octhat information from him,” curs in the legs, he says. Meyer says. “You really kind The second floor is where of learn about him from other Donovan sees patients, in a small wing directly off people.” The Respite Care Center, a the staircase. The halls are 24-hour medical and nursing cramped, and the air feels facility for homeless people, slightly oppressive, in stark contrast to his demeanor. Raised in Cincinnati, Donovan attended St. Xavier High School, received his undergraduate degree at the University of Cincinnati, then studied at the Medical College of Ohio in Toledo, returning home to start a private practice in the suburbs, which he held for four and a half years. “I loved my practice but I felt like I wanted to do something different, to help people with less access to health care,” he says. At the same time Donovan was beginning to explore the matter of his own spirituality. Though not quite sure what he was looking for, he began to learn about the Marianist community through a recommendation from the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Cincinnati. He says the Marianist mentality clicked with him largely due to its “prayer life“- a group prayer twice a day. “It’s a time for us to come together and in a sense remind ourselves that God is a part of all of our day,” Donovan says. See Healer, P. 4 Brother Bob Donovan, M.D. dedicates his life to caring for homeless people without insurance. Photo by Andrew Anderson. Treatment Center Under Attack In the face of tragedy, city council lashes out By GreGory Flannery editor Do you want to live near sex offenders? Too late. You already do. What do you want to do about it? Hamilton County is home to about 1,500 people who have been convicted of sex offenses. There is only one residential treatment center for sex offenders in the county, and Cincinnati City Council wants the state to “shut it down,” as its letter to Ohio Gov. Ted Strickland put it. Last month a former resident of the Pogue Rehabilita- tion Center, where sex offenders and other former prisoners receive treatment, allegedly killed a 13-year-old girl. In response, six of council’s nine members demanded the facility be closed. Raw emotion seldom makes for sound public policy, and no one made the point better than the victim’s father, who in the midst of his grief said that city council is wrong, and the Pogue Center should remain open. ‘Vote pandering’ The Pogue Center in Overthe-Rhine houses 90 to 100 former offenders, about half of whom have been convicted of various crimes classified as sex offenses, according to Chris Lohrman, president of the local chapter of the VOA, the non-profit agency that operates the facility. On March 7 Anthony Kirk- the Cincinnati community,” land allegedly strangled Esme the letter to Strickland says. Kenney. The Pogue Center “Please shut it down.” had evicted This is, him eight as MarRaw emotion seldom days earlier gie Slagle makes for sound for strikpoints out, public policy, and no ing another an election one made the point resident. year for The center better than the victim’s city councalled the father, who in the midst cil. An atCincinnati torney with of his grief said that Police about the Ohio city council is wrong, Justice and the incident and the Pogue Center Policy Cenbut Kirkshould remain open. land wasn’t ter, she says charged. c o u n c i l ’s The center notified Kirkland’s position ignores facts about parole officer the next business sex offenses and the most efday, as state rules required. fective response to them. But as public outrage over “The politicians really love the girl’s death mounted, city to blow it out of proportion,” council responded by blaming she says. “It’s vote pandering, the facility that had tried to and they rely on the fact that treat Kirkland. their constituents don’t know “VOAhas, at the least, failed what’s going on.” miserably in their mission and Research in the past 10 destroyed all public trust with years shows that, contrary to public perceptions, most persons convicted of sex offenses don’t repeat the crime, according to Slagle. Repeat offenses decline significantly when offenders receive the kind of treatment offered by the Pogue Center, she says. “What we should learn from this is there aren’t enough programs like this in the state,” Slagle says. “If the VOA is closed, most of those folks are going to become homeless.” Which is, of course, the state Kirkland was in the night he allegedly committed murder. If the city wants to protect public safety, closing the Pogue Center is the wrong step, according to Josh Spring, executive director of the Greater Cincinnati Coalition for the Homeless. VOA is a member of the coalition. See VOA, P. 6 �2 News Briefs Name it What it Is The upscale shopping and residential district planned for nearly a decade along the Ohio Riverfront in Cincinnati hasn’t had much construction activity but at least it had an apt name for a long time: The Banks. That’s fitting for the nearly $1 billion project. But it seems banks are none too popular these days, and so the Atlanta-based developers overseeing the 18-acre site asked for public input on a new name. The deadline has passed, but the survey was pretty limited anyway, with participants asked to pick between Riverfront District, Park District and Parkside or keeping the original name. Apparently no serious consideration was given to Rich People’s Enclave, Wealthy Village or We Got Ours Town. Cincinnati Judge Gets U.N. Post Hamilton County Appeals Judge Mark Painter has been named to the new United Nations Appellate Tribunal. A longtime supporter of Streetvibes, Painter has been on the local appeals court for 14 years. He has acquired an international reputation for teaching lawyers how to write in ways that lay people can understand. But more important, Painter has distinguished himself as a judge who requires respect for the rights of defendants and insists on prosecutors playing by the rules – qualities not often in evidence among his fellow Republicans, who have long dominated the local judiciary (see “Eight Minutes with an Honorable, Jan. 1 edition). Next issue: When Painter leaves for the United Nations, will Hamilton County finally break its longstanding racial barrier? We’ve never had an African-American appeals judge. Correction An article in the March 1 edition (“Fire Damages Grace Place”) incorrectly stated that Grace Place Catholic Worker House charges rent for guests who are able to pay. The house charges no rent but helps residents to save their wages for future housing needs. The article also incorrectly stated how long Grace Place has been open. Joyce Asfour and Sandy McCoy co-founded the facility 10 years ago. The Vibe Streetwise By GreGory Flannery So You Want to Help the Homeless, Do You? The closing of the Vernon Manor Hotel is going to pose hardships for homeless people. It’s not that they’ve found a place to stay there, but rather two agencies that provide essential services will lose their offices when the hotel goes out of business. The overall U.S. economic downturn is pushing the Vernon Manor to close. That means the Cincinnati Health Network and the Greater Cincinnati AIDS Consortium will now be homeless, like many of the people they serve. If your church or organization is interested in helping these non-profit agencies find quarters to continue their work, please call Charles Wallner of the AIDS Consortium at 513-910-5985 or Kate Bennett of the Health Network at 513-961-0600. If you’d like to help an organization that helps homeless people but don’t have office space to share, the Greater Cincinnati Coalition for the Homeless is in constant need of basic household supplies such as paper towels and toilet paper. The coalition serves coffee to homeless guests, so it also needs coffee, sugar and creamer. If you are able to provide office supplies such as copier paper, Lynne Ausman, administrative coordinator for the Homeless Coalition can tell you what kind is needed. To donate supplies, call 513-421-7803, ext. 11. Why, Some of Their Best Friends Are Poor People We mustn’t assume that everyone wants to help homeless people or addicted people or hungry people, their protests to the contrary notwithstanding. The Over-the-Rhine Foundation trumpets its goodwill on a section of its Web page titled, “Improved Social Services”: “The OTR Foundation is not opposed to helping people, feeding the hungry or giving shelter to the homeless. In fact, we want to encourage improvements in social service delivery to assure that these goals are more effectively reached and that increasing numbers of people can find substantive life change.” But the foundation’s real goal is limiting the number of agencies in the neighborhood that help poor people. Michael Morgan, executive director of the foundation, supports Cincinnati City Council’s efforts to use zoning regulations to restrict the places that human-services agencies can locate and to “de-concentrate” the number of agencies in Over-the-Rhine. Unfortunately, some of his arguments are as uninformed as city council’s proposals. “These agencies often function with no intra-organization collaboration,” the foundation’s Web site says. But, in fact, the Homeless Coalition, for example, is a collaboration of dozens of agencies. The foundation says, “The result is massive replication of services.” But, in fact, various emergency shelters specialize in the needs of different individuals; some house homeless men, some house homeless women, some house homeless families. The foundation’s most curious assertion is this one: “Most of these facilities are run by people from outside the neighborhood.” But, in fact, both the past and present executive directors of the Homeless Coalition, to pick just two people, have lived in Over-the-Rhine. More to the point, even if the “outsiders” assertion were true, what’s the point? Unhappy Anniversary to You The anti-war movement isn’t what it used to be. As Lew Moores pointed out in the February edition (“What’s Next for the Resistance?”), a number of factors, including the election of an anti-war president and the focus on the massive U.S. economic crisis, seem to have taken some of the vigor out of the peace movement. A couple dozen local activists gathered March 19 at a corner in University Heights to mark the sixth anniversary of the U.S. war on Iraq. One year earlier, hundreds lined Clifton Avenue on the fifth anniversary of the war. Of course, that was an election year, and the economy hadn’t yet bottomed out. The important point isn’t that the numbers of protesters are down but rather that the war continues and therefore the peace struggle must go on, as attested by the stalwart activists who turned out March 19. STREETVIBES April 2009 Streetvibes is a newspaper that provides relevant discussions of homelessness, poverty and other related social justice issues. It is published monthly by the Greater Cincinnati Coalition for the Homeless. Address: 117 East 12th Street Cincinnati, OH 45202 Phone: 513.421.7803 x 12 Fax: 513.421.7813 Email: streetvibes2@ yahoo.com Website: www. cincihomeless.org Blog: streetvibes. wordpress.com Streetvibes Staff Editor Gregory Flannery Contributing Writers Stephanie Dunlap, Margo Pierce, Lew Moores, Paul Kopp, Alecia Lott, David Heitfield, Dave Scharfenberger, Angela Pancella, Mike Henson, Larry Gross, Lynne Ausman, Andrew Anderson, Ariana Shahandeh Photography/Artwork Andrew Anderson, Lynne Ausman, Paul Kopp, Anthony Williams, Aimie Willhoite Advisory Committee Joe Wessels, Steve Novotni, Andrew Freeze, Georgine Getty, Michael Henson, Stephanie Dunlap, Steve Gibbs The Greater Cincinnati Coalition for the Homeless is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization. Programs include Streetvibes, “Voice of the Homeless” Speaker’s Bureau, Cincinnati Urban Experience (CUE), Homeless Curriculum, and Homeless Civil Rights Organizing Project. All donations support these programs and are taxdeductible to the full extent of the law. We are members of: �STREETVIBES April 2009 Community News Eight Minutes 3 with two ‘Outlaws’ Risking their lives for journalism By MarGo Pierce Contributing Writer I was with three other guys. There was a third person inbetween who actually set us Lack of profits – not death up – I didn’t know the person threats or government raids who was printing the editions. – close down newspapers in It was very purposeful. the United States, but that “We were not supposed to kind of problem is only wish- meet because it was dangerful thinking for Nasim Fekrat ous for us to say we know and Gibbs Dube. These jour- each other. And if one of us is nalists regularly receive death arrested, then it’s easy for us threats, have to say, ‘It’s been beaten published Threats of jail and up when by (somedeath were regular they gave a one else.)’ occurrences. But government ” that didn’t stop them When the or an official unfavorable newsletter from publishing The was just an press and Whirlwind. keep a runidea, Dube ning total of was talkthe number of their peers who ing about it and an American are jailed or killed each year. overheard the conversation. Fekrat, a freelance jour“She said, ‘I’ll find you a nalist from Afghanistan, and person, but you’re not going Dube, a journalist from Zim- to know the person.’ So then babwe, are both in the United she found that person,” Dube States on fellowships to learn says. “After doing the editomore about their craft and the rial, we just give her the maresources available to help terial and she will take the them when they return home. materials. Then later we’d see For Fekrat, that means going the publication on the street. back to wearing a disguise It was really permeating the when walking the streets of urban areas. Unfortunately, it Kabul to avoid arrest. Dube wasn’t getting into the rural might not be allowed back areas.” into his home country. The The men writing the editorigovernment banned his last al copy communicated via enpublic newspaper, The Weekly crypted messages to each othTimes, and his effort to keep er to meet at a specific place to his secret connection to a fol- write their copy and then not low-up publication – equally meet again until it was time to unpopular with the officials prepare the next edition during of the Media and Information the four-year run of the paper. Commission – has probably In between, their personal ofbeen revealed. fices were raided many times “What I did was to form a – they didn’t have an address four-page newsletter, which or phone number for the pubwas underground,” Dube says. lication – and threats of jail “It was called The Whirlwind. and death were regular occur- rences. But that didn’t stop them from publishing The Whirlwind. “At the end of the day it was effective in terms of people reading it and people talking about it,” Dube says. “You hear people talking about it a lot and we’d say, ‘Fine, we are doing a good job.’ It was very popular. “The day we stopped was when I was coming to the (United States.) Those other guys said, ‘Stay safe.’ One of them had to leave the country … because somebody, I suspect, leaked the information to the state security agents. He fled and went to Botswana. The other left and went to South Africa.” Dube told me about his experiences when we were on break between sessions at the Peter Jennings Project for Journalists and the Constitution Conference in Philadelphia in February. His smiles and passion for journalism were as intense as his concern for his family. During the year of his Hubert Humphrey Fellowship at the University of Maryland, Dube’s wife and children had to move in with his brother for a while because she feared for their safety during the police raids on their house. He said the risk is “absolutely” worth it. He believes there is no freedom without a free, independent press. Fekrat, who lives 4,380 miles away in the middle of a war zone, believes the same thing. “I’m writing to inform people,” he says. “If I’m on line I can (bring a b o u t ) change if I am changing the motivation of a person. I’m doing a kind of education, informing people, which is the base of change.” When he Gibbs Dube, left, and Namal Perera. Photo courtesy of the Peter Jennings Project for Journalist and the Constitution. Gibbs Dube. Photo courtesy of the Peter Jennings Project for Journalist and the Constitution. isn’t doing translation work to earn rent money or moving apartments every few weeks to avoid being caught, Fekrat is reporting for the BBC Persian, Radio Free Europe and publications run by NATO and the United Nations. But his true passion is teaching “citizen journalists” how to access digital media (http:// afghanpress.org/) so they can tell about day-to-day move beyond the war. At one session he had 35 people sharing 10 computers. “The mission of launching workshops in different parts of Afghanistan, for me, it was important to bring Afghans to the digital world,” he says. “Why? Afghanistan is now defined as a war country in Western media. But what we’re going to do is we’re going to change this. We have very, very weak media – print and electronic – 95 percent is private. Using new tools – digital photography, Web – informing our society and making a window open to the world and telling from Afghanistan what is going on. “Present Afghanistan through the digital world (with) a different face, not war. We have lots of underground cities discovered. We have Buddhas discovered last year – 17 meters (tall). We’re going to give a real picture of our history, connect people, maybe some people like students will (create) a connection with Afghan people, to know more about the country.” Self-taught in everything digital, Fekrat also taught himself to speak and read English and is now in the midst of a one-year media fellowship at Duke University. Also a Jennings Fellow, Fekrat talked about why he’s risking his life for journalism. “You can’t be silent. You have to write something,” he says. “There’s a lot of domestic violence against women. That’s your mom. Your sister is living this – you feel responsible to tell something to society. “I was also writing about discrimination, which is very sensitive in Afghanistan. Today it’s growing. Now what we’re going to do, we want to bring more Afghan people to the digital world to talk about their own society, their reality about what’s going on, about war, love, hate, music, culture – everything.” So what do two journalists from foreign countries have to do with making Cincinnati a better place? Both men were surprised and pleased to learn that a non-profit organization helping homeless people could and would publish a newspaper. Unpaid journalists offering their time and work to support such as cause, they say, is just like what they do. The comparison feels overly generous when the only threat I’ve ever gotten is a potential lawsuit from a developer (which never happened) and the worst thing the cops do to me is ignore my messages to call back. But the underlying point isn’t lost: A newspaper can serve as the voice for people who don’t usually get to speak or are ignored when they try to express themselves. While the life-and-death struggle for providing that printed voice isn’t as obvious here in the states, Fekrat articulates the importance of doing that work of communication, regardless of where journalists live. “If I have today, I have today and I’m going to spend today for today, not tomorrow because I don’t know that I’m alive tomorrow.” Many people work hard to make a difference for the less privileged in Greater Cincinnati. “Eight Minutes” is an effort to learn who they are and what motivates them. �4 STREETVIBES April 2009 Community News Juvenile Justice Reform Underway Ending excessive force and extended sentences By lew Moores Contributing Writer Court for the Southern District of Ohio in 2008 found DYS facilities around the state The juvenile corrections “overcrowded, understaffed system in Ohio was broken and underserved.” It posited: and now it’s in the process of “Excessive force and the exbeing fixed. cessive use of isolation, some of it extraorA lawsuit “What we’ve created dinarily profiled in 2004 challenged now is a system that is longed, is the way the centered on the youth endemic to Ohio Dethe ODYS and the hope we all partment of system.” have for rehabilitation.” The reYouth SerAl Gerhadstein vices (DYS) port also adtreated judressed how veniles in custody and how DYS employees were treated, it determined the way they’d saying juvenile correctional be released. A settlement was officers complained about reached a year ago. Last month “excessive use of mandated DYS announced a new pro- overtime” driven by undercess for releasing juveniles. staffing. Instead of holding youthful The report went further: offenders beyond their release “The needless and excesdates because of deficiencies sive use of force is engrained in the system itself – such as within ODYS. … We consislack of medical care, lack of tently found flawed training, a mental health system, inade- deficient oversight, seriously quate education opportunities, inadequate reporting and subpoorly trained staff and “arbi- sequent review of ‘incidents.’ trary and excessive discipline” Our findings support the con– DYS will release them on clusion that ODYS youth, time once their minimum sen- with varying degrees of intensity depending on the facility, tences are completed. “Once a youth completes are not provided with the contheir minimum sentence, they stitutional minima relating to will not be continued except a safe environment.” in cases where they are con“What prompted this is that sidered a risk to public safety, it’s part of an overall reorgathere is time added for serious nization of the entire juvenile misconduct while in custody, corrections system,” says Al additional treatment is nec- Gerhardstein, a lead attorney essary or when other special for the plaintiffs. “We have circumstances are determined started from the front door and by the full Release Authority worked our way to the back Board,” according to a state- door. This is the back door.” Gerhardstein says youthment by DYS. A fact-finding report sub- ful offenders are sentenced to mitted to the U.S. District six months but kept beyond that depending on arbitrary factors, which especially included factors such as “institutional deficiencies” – “Oh, you need anger management, which we haven’t had enough staff to give,’ so we’ll flop you for another six months,’” he says. “That was just incredibly counter-productive for the health of the youths and safety of the public. That just creates bitterness.” DYS Director Tom Stickrath said this in a press release from late February: “I want to make sure we are making sound, informed decisions about release that are consistent with public safety. The complexity of the previous system seemed to lead to uncertainty for the youth and their families as to how and when the youth would be released. Under the revised process, there will be increased consistency in the decisionmaking process because the parameters for a youth’s release, or continuance, are clearly defined.” In a stipulation from early last month, the state and plaintiffs agreed that DYS will provide young people entrusted to its care with a “safe and humane environment” and that it will provide treatment in the “least restrictive setting” that is consistent with youths’ transgressions and “generally accepted professional standards of care.” “What we’ve created now is a system that is centered on the youth and the hope we all have for rehabilitation,” Gerhardstein says. “It’s not just a “For me, it’s a way of putting that as an integral part of my day because without that it’s easy to get lost and frustrated over all this stuff that I know could be better.” Donovan lives in a shared apartment building in Overthe-Rhine with several Marianist brothers. Brother Mike Murphy, a housemate of Donovan’s and the manager of the Canticle Café, says the brothers have developed a strong support system. “We both have very active types of work dealing with the homeless,” he says. “There is a lot of personal sharing that is going on. We have a very good relationship. When he’s stressed out, I help him; and when I’m stressed out, he helps with me.” Murphy says Donovan is quiet and introverted, with a tremendous loyalty to his profession and to working with “You have to go through financial systems first; and when you get that done, then you can make the referral, and then it takes anywhere between six weeks or threefour months before the person can get in,” he says. “A lot of times you know exactly what the person needs but it’s just so hard to get them in.” In Kentucky, the situation is much worse due to lack of funding, Donovan says. “It is almost impossible to get a referral over there,” he says. There is a marked frustration in his voice when he talks about the health-care system. Others, however, point to what he’s done to help. Harry Walter Duncan Jr., a patient, recalls first meeting Donovan six years ago. “It was kind of intriguing because he actually cared about the people he was helping,” Duncan says. Al Gerhadstein, attorney for the plaintiffs. speculative hope. It’s a realistic hope based on evidence. We know from an extensive amount of research that, if you use the right type of programming, you will be able to make a positive difference in the youth’s life and into their success for re-entry so long as you don’t lock them up too long. “There are a large number of youth called ‘moderate risk’ in the system, and the research shows that, if you institutionalize them excessively, they will get worse as offenders. Their re-offending rate will go up. So you need to do a good dosage right away and get them out of there. This isn’t something like Scared Straight. This is not built on fear. It’s just built on appropriate programming.” Healer and Brother (continued from page 1) homeless people. On meeting Donovan, one wouldn’t guess that he is a Marianist brother, Meyer says. His faith is more of an internal mechanism, Meyer says. “I think, to him, his faith is what drives his behavior,” she says. “His compassion and his spirituality -- I think that is his motivation for everything that he does.” After resigning from his private practice, Donovan began to fully dedicate himself to serving the medical needs of homeless people. In addition to his work at the Respite Center, he also works a weekly shift at the Pike Street Clinic in Covington, Ky., and sees patients on a medical van. Providing medical care for homeless people, even after they’ve been treated in hospital emergency rooms, is full of obstacles, according to Donovan. Even arranging appointments is difficult. Each youth in DYS gets a unified case plan geared to what’s appropriate to him or her. About 1,400 youths are currently committed to DYS. “If you release (juveniles) who’ve got a chip on their shoulders, who haven’t learned how to behave, you’re going to have more trouble,” Gerhardstein says. “You’re just going to make things worse. So that’s what we’re dedicated to changing. I think this is an excellent plan for getting that off on the right foot. “These reforms will reduce future criminal activities because we are tailoring the treatment to the real needs of each youth. When they reemerge back into society, they will have better skills and better motivation to stay out of trouble.” In the med van, Duncan learned that, in addition to high blood pressure, he was also suffering from diabe- Harry Duncan is one of many patients served tes. Duncan by Dr. Donovan. Photo by Andrew Anderson. was able to that, I had just gotten off to counteract both conditions of drugs; and you know you with Donovan’s help, but still go to ask someone for some has become partially blind due money, and you know the first to not taking his medication. thing they are thinking.” He calmly broaches the topic This isn’t the first time of his vision loss, not blaming Duncan has lost his vision, he anyone else. says. In 2004, after he had a “Every time I would go off stroke, Donovan helped him lagging on what (Donovan) to see and even drive again. said, I had to suffer the re“I’ve got nothing but the utsults,” he says. most respect for him -- and it’s Duncan says the problem not just about me; it’s about was paying for the medicaeveryone,” Duncan says. “Evtion. eryone I see, I tell ’em, ‘Get “You get tired of asking on that dang medical van.’ ” for (money),” he says. “Prior �STREETVIBES April 2009 Community News 5 Slaves Look Like Us Human trafficking is a local and global issue en, would be domestic slaves in the homes of the masters,” he said. “Sometimes these slave workers would tell the If you imagine that slavery masters, ‘I have a child. Would is a crime of the past or is lim- you like the child to stay with ited to foreign countries, con- you?’ sider this: Since the founding “After independence the of the End Slavery Cincinnati term ‘stay-with’remained. The Rescue and Restore Coalition Africans, the former slaves, in September 2007, the group they would go into the rural has received 16 referrals. areas and ask the poor famiSix of those cases are under lies, a family with too many investigation by law enforce- mouths to feed … where there ment, according to Jessica was no school in the area, and Donohue-Dioh, a coordinator they would offer this family, of the group. Half the victims ‘If you let your child to stay involved in the local cases are with me, your child will go school U.S. citito zens and The worst part is that I will take half are care of your the child is not allowed child.’ And foreign nato speak until spoken the family tionals, she to. The child cannot be would say, says. Aw a r e ‘Sure.’ A seen by anybody but ness of the child has to remain ‘stay with’ contempowithin the sound of the defined the rary slavery child.” person’s voice. is growing C a d e t ’s thanks to ordeal beevents such gan when he as a March 5 conference at was handed over by his family Isaac M. Wise Temple. More as a “stay with” at age 4. than 200 people heard the ac“That child really has no counts of two former slaves: value so the child usually Jean Robert Cadet, a native sleeps under the kitchen table Haitian who is executive di- on the floor or on the back rector of the Restavec Foun- porch,” he says. “The child dation, and Theresa Flores, a is the first one to get up in the social worker who grew up morning and the last one to go in the Midwest. While their to bed. The first thing in the enslavement occurred worlds morning, around 4:30-5, the apart, their stories echoed the child fetched the water. Often same sense of fear, degrada- it’s a girl. She goes out and tion, hopelessness and tri- sweeps the yard. She washes umph. the car, she cooks, she empSlavery legally ended in ties the chamber pots. Even Haiti when it gained indepen- though the house may have dence. But the change in law indoor plumbing, the people didn’t eliminate the reality, would have a chamber pot Cadet says. because they’re too lazy to go “During slavery, when the to the bathroom because they slaves would be out in the have a child to do it. fields working, their children “But the worst part is not or other people, usually wom- the chores … it’s not the fact By MarGo Pierce Contributing Writer Jean Robert Cadet, a former slave in Haiti. Photo by Aimie Willhoite. that the child is the last one to go to bed at night … it’s not the fact that the child is beaten. The worst part is that the child is not allowed to speak until spoken to. The child cannot be seen by anybody but the child has to remain within the sound of the person’s voice. When the person says, ‘Bobby,’ the child has to magically appear. So the child usually stays around the house, behind the door or in the corner of the kitchen. They do not talk to the child. If the family goes out at night or spends the day or the weekend (away), they lock the door and the child is in the yard. If it’s raining, too bad. This is the type of slavery that I experienced as a child in Haiti.” The family that Cadet ‘stayed with’ smuggled him into the United States when he was a teenager. When the family learned about mandatory school attendance in the United States, they told Cadet The audience at the Issac M. Wise Temple conference on human trafficking. Photo by Aimie Willhoite. to leave their home. As terrible as it sounds, it was good that Cadet was kicked out in this country, where he was able to get help. High school turned out to be Cadet’s ticket to freedom, but that is where a two-year hell began for Flores. “I lost my voice when I was 15 years old,” she said. “My silence was mandatory and others profited off my silence.” A new student at a high school in the affluent Detroit suburb of Birmingham, Mich., Flores met one of the “others” in school. He went her church so she disregarded warnings from her new friends to stay away from him. The youth drugged her, raped her and then said she had to “earn back” sexually explicit pictures of her. “They threatened to show the pictures to my father,” Flores said. “They threatened to show them to my father’s boss at work. They threatened to post them around school. And they threatened to show them to the priest of the church I attended. This is a typical way that men ensnare girls into human trafficking rings, to this day. They watched my every move – they knew where I was at all times – they were in class with me, even in the same church. They would come by my work and stand in the door. They would find out where I was babysitting and call the house. Cars would follow me home from school.” She would get calls telling here when to meet a car that would take her away to serve as a sex slave for one or dozens of men at a time. “We as Americans often envision trafficking as Indian boys making soccer balls or carpets, girls in Thailand or Cambodia for sex for sale for tourists or African slaves, not prostitutes, not in America – the land of the free – and not with kids living in $300,000 homes in the suburbs,” Flores said. “No one wanted to hear that trafficking looks like me, too. So I remained silent.” Her father’s job transfer to another state along the east coast allowed Flores to escape her captors. For those who think it doesn’t happen in Ohio, Flores had a sobering message. “The FBI has identified Toledo, Ohio, as the numberone recruiting hub for teenage prostitution, which is human trafficking,” she said. “If we … know for a fact it’s in Toledo, we are foolish to believe that it’s not happening in Columbus, Cleveland or Cincinnati.” More people live in slavery today than at any other time in history, according to Julie Arostegui, a coordinator of the End Slavery Cincinnati Rescue and Restore Coalition. “Today there are between 12 and 27 million people enslaved worldwide,” she, said. “It is estimated that 200,000 more are enslaved every year; of that amount, between 14,500 and 17,500 are trafficked into the United States annually. Add to this the 100,000 to 300,000 American youth who are at high risk of being trafficked for forced sexual exploitation – prostitution and pornography. This is a major human rights issue.” To learn more about human trafficking visit the Department of Health and Human Services web site at www.acf. hhs.gov/trafficking/. �6 STREETVIBES April 2009 Book Review Alone Again, Naturally Sheeple Who Need Sheeple Are the Luckiest Sheeple of All By DaviD HeitFielD Contributing Writer When my neighbor Terry Reed asked me if I'd like to read a copy of his latest book, he warned me: “It might piss you off.” It didn't, because I, too, am one of those “lone wolves” who sees more value in writing book reviews for a no-budget newspaper sold by homeless people than engaging in the cliquish banter of what passes for social intercourse. Of Herds and Hermits: America’s Lone Wolves and Submissive Sheep serves up an ironic aspect of our national self-image: While we like to think of ourselves as a culture that values the individual, this is just mass delusion, a mythology employed to hide the banality of our evolving social constructs. We are a nation that worships the team player, the sheep who join fraternal organizations, the company man. We’re LinkedIn and Facebooked. We reward the followers and fear the independent thinkers. Our anti- intellectualism has transmuted that “loners” are maladjusted from a defiant transcendental- and die much earlier than the ist and Romantic tradition rest of the herd. Being alone is found in Thoreau or Emerson implied to be damaging in evto a culture that abhors, rejects ery way, not just to society but and stigmato the individual. Still, it is amazing tizes any“That, of one with course, is egreto think that in a brain. gious stupidity,” this 24-hour news Wa l d e n Reed snorts, apworld, where every provingly quotP o n d story is reported, has been ing Montaigne, blogged, youtubed dammed “The greatby Joe the est thing in the and twittered, I P l u m b e r, don't recall seeing world is to know you betcha. how to be selfone thing blaming After sufficient.” groupthink for our laying the To be fair, one current economic literary could find a lot to mess. foundation quibble about in for the exalthe book. It's not particularly well tation of individualism over collectivism edited. Some rather obscure in the first chapter, Reed starts sources (and sometimes inexmaking his case that despite plicably anonymous sources) our American literary heroes often seem strung together of the 18th and 19th centuries, for no particular reason. One a “loner” is a pejorative term could easily deconstruct the in almost every other context, narrative as a requiem for the be it from literal dictionary loss of the male hierarchy – or, definitions to sensational news perhaps more accurately, as a stories about murderous “lon- lament for the feminization of ers” to modern sociological American culture. and medical studies indicating But that's also what makes much of this fun to read. This isn't so much a dogmatic polemic as it is a heart-felt, impassioned defense of people who just want to be left alone, who just can't see what the big whoop is about joining groups and making new social contacts. Don't look down on people who lack your need for approval from others. And if you think most social constructs are stupid, just go your own way and don't look back. Reed rails against “the sixhour dinner death march,” suggesting that one way out is to argue some wildly unpopular idea at the party, so you may then leave early: “One of the rewards of ostracism is to devote what would have been dinner party time to some far higher purpose, such as contemplating a ceiling.” You probably have to be a hermit to appreciate that line. Even worse than a dinner or party invitation, though, is the dreaded wedding invitation: “Weddings are a dilemma for the lone wolf, because he can find no cause to celebrate what appears to him as a perfectly dismal idea”; and un- See Herds, P. 10 Treatment Center Under Attack (continued from page 1) Chris Monzel “It is far more dangerous for all involved, including our city and region as a whole, to have people who are sex-offenders living on the street. … Without the Pogue Center, the level of possibility for crimes to be committed against others in our area would simply increase exponentially,” Spring said in a statement issued after council’s letter. The city’s response ignores a salient fact: People who commit sex offenses are eventually released from prison. Are the rest of us safer if they receive treatment, including help finding jobs, as the Pogue Center offers? “People who go through appropriate treatment programs re-offend at a much lower rate than people who are imprisoned and never treated,” Lohrman says. State law and a city ordinance restrict former sex offenders from living near cinnati like the Pogue Center, schools, day-care centers and which has been operating for I other places where children don’t know how many years.” congregate. Their job prosThe answer is VOA has pects are dismal. operated a halfway house for “We kick them out of their former offenders in Cincinnati homes, for 50 years, The city’s response away from Lohrman ignores a salient fact: their famisays. lies,” Sla- People who commit sex That’s not gle says. offenses are eventually all that Mon“We won’t released from prison. zel doesn’t give them know about jobs. And the center. then we expect them not to He says he’s never visited it, commit more offenses.” although he allows, ‘I’ve drivAt present, an estimated 40 en by it many times.” He says to 60 homeless former sex of- he’s never read the inspecfenders live downtown, Slagle tions by the Ohio Department says. of Rehabilitation and Correc“If city council insists on tions or the Ohio Department closing the VOA, those home- of Alcohol and Drug Addicless sex offenders are going tion, both of which license the to be right there in downtown Pogue Center. Monzel didn’t Cincinnati,” she says. say whether he knows the facility is accredited by the Monzel doesn’t know American Correctional Association. But it is. The back-pedaling is alMonzel says the Pogue ready under way. Councilman Center – one of only three Chris Monzel, one of VOA’s residential treatment facilities most vigorous critics, now for former sex offenders in says closing the Pogue Center the state – belongs out where isn’t really the point – never there are cows and cornfields mind the letter he signed call- and such. ing for the governor to “shut “This location should be in it down.” a more rural area,” he says. “The correct word is “We’ve done our fair share.” Meanwhile, having exten‘moved,’ ” Monzel says. “We do not want a center in Cin- sively studied public policy on sex offenses, Slagle hopes the public will remember: • Eighty to 90 percent of sex offenses involve someone known by the victim – family members, neighbors, teachers, coaches, priests – not strangers lurking in the shrubbery. “We’re looking at the bushes and not next door,” she says. • Children in the United States are seldom abducted and killed by strangers, as Esme Kenney was. In 2005 that happened to 100 children, compared to 500 killed by drunk drivers and 1,100 killed by parents or other caregivers. “It’s not stranger danger,” Slagle says. “Thank God people like Kirkland are very rare.” • Sex offenders are not all alike. The recent arrest of teenagers in Greater Cincinnati schools for “sexting” – sending allegedly obscene photographs of nude minors to one another via cell phone – constitutes a sex crime under Ohio law. “The first thing the public doesn’t quite understand is that, when you use the term ‘sex offender,’it’s such a broad range of crimes that you can’t make generalities,” Slagle says. “The ‘sexting’ trend is a sex offense, and it’s actually a more serious offense than the one Mr. Kirkland was charged with.” Kirkland was at the Pogue Center for a conviction for importuning – that is, trying to lure a child into sexual activity. That’s a crime, of course, but it’s not the same as physically abusing a child, and it’s a reminder that the matter of sexual offenses is complex and doesn’t lend itself to easy solutions, such as shutting down a center that has successfully treated many former offenders – the ones who haven’t been in the news. “The VOA provides a very, very valuable service to all of us in the community,” Slagle says. “They’re treating sex offenders before they come back into our community. They help them have jobs and save money. The question we should be asking as a community is, ‘Do we want these folks to succeed? Of course we do. We should be creating an environment that guarantees their success.” �STREETVIBES April 2009 Book Review 7 First You Have to Have Your Own Bootstraps Year of experimental poverty doesn’t yield much insight By lynne ausMan Staff Writer Scratch Beginnings is a memoir of one man’s journey into and out of homelessness. This story is nothing like the stories I hear every day at the Greater Cincinnati Coalition for the Homeless. Adam Shepard, the author, did not grow up in poverty, he did not experience violence at home or in the street, he did not suffer any type of drug or alcohol addiction, he did not have a mental illness – or any signs of one. He did not have to worry about money, he had a roof over his head and a college degree, he was the stereotypical college kid. When Shepard graduated from college he felt “disillusioned by the apathy he saw around him and incensed after reading Barbara Ehrenreich’s famous works Nickel and Dimed and Bait and Switch – books that gave him the feeling of hopelessness over the state of the working class in America.” This feeling sparked an idea and a journey, an idea to refute Ehrenreich’s theory that people who start at the bottom tend to stay at the bottom and a journey of self-discovery. Shepard set out to achieve the “American Dream.” He placed his past, including his contacts, his pricey college education, his bank account and even to some extent his family, on a shelf for later use. In addition to wiping his past away (for the year), he vowed not to panhandle, only use services available to everyone and not break the law, aside from illegally sleeping in a park or under a bridge. These parameters are the first clue that this is a book took pity on him and got him in. He was surprised when no one was interested in hearing his fabricated story of how he arrived at the shelter. The police officer gave him four “[My story] is the story of rags-to-fancier rags. My goal is to better my lot and to provide a stepping-stone over the next 365 days for everything else I want to accomplish in my life. I aim to find out if the American Dream is still alive, or if it has, in fact, been drowned out by the greed of the upper class coupled with the apathy of the lower class.” – Adam Shepard about the realities of homeless- pieces of advice: 1. Don’t take ness and poverty influenced blankets from the floor; you’ll by a middle-class background. get scabies. 2. Keep your beShepard took $25, the clothes longings with you or they will on his back and a sleeping bag, disappear. 3. Ignore guys who boarded a train to Charleston, bother you; walk away. 4. Do S.C., to find his way with noth- not work day labor; go to the ing and to make something. employment office and get a At the end of his journey, he real job. hoped to Shepard He blames poverty on measure didn’t listen laziness; he blames his sucto the police poverty on being cess by a o ff i c e r ’s few posadvice and unmotivated to better sessions one’s situation. He has no p r o m p t l y -- an opempathy for such people. went to the erable day-labor automohall for a bile, a furnished apartment job. He caught on quickly to and $2,500 in cash -- and a what day labor is: indentured foundation on which he could servitude. He writes about the exploitation, the bad wages, continue to improve his life. Taking a train from his the rude employees, the extra hometown to Charleston, fees. He eventually found a S.C., Shepard arrived at a job at a moving company. The homeless shelter well past job that allowed him to find curfew, but a police officer an apartment. He furnished it with items that clients no longer wanted. He bought a truck and saved money. He met his goal. The moving company taught also Shepard about low-wage workers. He met Derrick, the extremely hard working mover saving every penny to buy a house. There was BG, who was also a mover and became Shepard’s roommate. BG preferred to skip through life coasting off little work and the generosity of friends. Along with his reflections on his year of “rags-to-fancier rags,” Shepard makes recommendations to help those who are experiencing homelessness and poverty. First, he says, life can be a bitch. Second, there are happy people and unhappy people. The happy people are not necessarily the richest, but they are the ones who are going somewhere. They have a plan, they have a dream, they have a purpose and they are happy with it like that. Third, we need more clean, safe, affordable housing and training in parenting, financial literacy, housing maintenance and other life skills. Oddly, he doesn’t mention better jobs or more jobs. Shepard’s main conclusion, however, is that “moving up” is reserved for the few who are willing to pull themselves up by their bootstraps. But what if they don’t have bootstraps to begin with? What do you pull up from? He calls this the “It ain’t my fault” society. He blames poverty on laziness; he blames poverty on being unmotivated to better one’s situation. He has no empathy for such people. His final plea is to upper-middle class America to donate money, to volunteer, to mentor, to be “neighborhood heroes.” In the end, Shepard’s memoir isn’t really about being able to achieve the American dream when you start at the bottom. It’s just a middleclass perspective on poverty. He says he spent the year not relying on his past success, his college degree, his family or anyone he knows; but in reality, it’s impossible to separate these. He still had his middleclass values, his middle-class pride and his middle-class knowledge. In the first chapter, he was irritated that he’d been asked for money so many times and assumed that the next person to talk to him would ask for money; it almost resulted in a fight. Shepard’s middle-class values told him that he needed to find a job quickly, not rely on others and work his way up. He had bootstraps: the knowledge and values he was taught growing up. There will always be people who defy the odds, like Chris Gardner in Pursuit of Happyness or Jeanette Walls, who wrote The Glass Castle; but the reality is that a vast majority of those who start at the bottom stay at the bottom. It’s a complex issue and there is not a fix-all Band-Aid that we can apply to make everyone middle-class. Creating more affordable housing and intervening when families are at-risk goes a long way to helping end homelessness, but they are not the total solution. We need good jobs with good pay and benefits; we need to help people get bootstraps. Are you interested in helping with Streetvibes? Are you a writer, poet, artist or photographer? If so, contact Greg Flannery at 513.421.7803 x 12 or email streetvibes2@yahoo.com �8 Sexy, Yummy, Veggie Which of the following is true? A) Vegetarians are generally healthier than meat-eaters. B) Vegetarians are generally thinner than meat-eaters. C) Vegetarians spend less on groceries than meat-eaters. Trick question! If said vegetarians avoid processed foods and eat a balanced diet, all three answers are true. Let’s talk about groceries, baby. In addition to being better for our health and waist- Mushroom Curry with Brown Rice Serves four moderately hungry people or two very hungry people Your tour guide into the steamy side of vegetarian cuisine By alecia a. lott Contributing Writer STREETVIBES April 2009 Local News 1 lb. button mushrooms, cleaned and sliced 2 jalapeno peppers, seeded 2 tsp. ground coriander 1 medium onion 2 garlic cloves 1 tsp. ground cumin ½ tsp. chili powder 2/3 cup coconut milk (use light coconut milk to save a few calories) 3 tbsp. canola oil (or other neutrally flavored oil) Salt to taste 2 cups brown rice Photo by Andrew Anderson. lines (among other things) than a meat-based diet, a plant-based diet is also good for our wallets. Let’s face it, meat is expensive. You can pinch those pennies until they scream if you strut your grocery cart away from the deli and dairy sections and toward the produce section of the supermarket. Keep your pantry stocked with inexpensive staple foods and a few basic spices, and you can feast like a king or queen without spending like one. “I can eat veggies when I’m by myself,” you say. “But I have a hot date coming over and I need to make something, well, special.” Not to worry! My mildly spicy, filling mushroom curry looks fancier than it is, and that‘s the beauty of it. Enjoy it whether you’re solo or ready to wow your paramour (or your family), and adjust the spices to your taste. If you hate chopping mushrooms (I do), you can buy them presliced but it will cost more. Brown rice is healthy, but any rice will do. Are you ready? Optional toppings, not pictured: Paprika Chopped fresh parsley Coarsely chopped cashews Cook rice according to package instructions. • Put jalapenos, coriander, cumin, chili powder, garlic, onion and coconut milk in a blender or food processor and blend until smooth. • Pour canola oil into a saucepan, add mushrooms and cook over medium heat until the mushrooms are soft, about five minutes. • Add coconut milk mixture, reduce heat and simmer, uncovered, another five minutes. • Serve the aromatic mushroom mixture over a bed of hot rice. If you’re feeling especially showy, top with a sprinkle of paprika, parsley and/or cashews. Take a Break Some find ‘gap year’ after high school most educational 1 By ariana sHaHanDeH Contributing Writer a few minutes of listening can be to people who don't get out much,” she says. With growing pressure to Although her gap year attend college immediately was so productive, Pratt-Harafter high school, many kids rington’s decision was first are guided toward a path more met with hesitation and low suited to society than the in- energy. dividual. But more and more “Most of the pressure to students are opting to more not take a year off actually broadly explore came from their academic teachers,” “I would say that possibilities by she says, taking time off taking a gap “They were year before definitely helped me happy that I mature and make college. was taking Abbey Prattbetter decisions in the opportuHarrington, a nity, but you the future.” sophomore at could tell - Matt Southworth Wi l m i n g t o n they didn’t College, spent think it was a year before the best opseeking her degree volunteer- tion.” The gap year encounters ing, traveling and participating in humanitarian work. apprehension for many others “I spent three months trav- as well. eling around the British Isles,” “My friends thought it was she says. “I took a few tours, a bad idea,” says Seth Huff, a did sightseeing and got to- recent graduate of Lakota East tally lost on a few occasions. High School. “My brother, my When I got back, I did a little sister thought it was a stupid volunteer service at a local art idea.” gallery and then got a summer Since graduation, Huff has job with Meals on Wheels.” passionately pursued a career Upon her return home, in music, drawing a growing Pratt-Harrington continued to support base for his band, Armake a difference in others’ cher’s Paradox, despite othlives. ers’ original doubts. He started “A lot of my time was spent with a humble myspace page with older people, and that (www.myspace.com/archerwas a learning experience sparadoxmusic). Now he will just to realize how important be featured on episodes of the Seth Huff of bands Archer’s Paradox and Mia and the Retros is featured in MTV’s Taking the Stage. new MTV reality series, Taking the Stage, as part of the band Mia and the Retros. A 2002 high school graduate, Matt Southworth, used time off to enlist in the U.S. Army for two years. He held two part-time jobs after his tour ended, gaining life and work experience before enrolling at Wilmington in 2005. He saw the time off as a useful learning advantage. “I would say that taking time off definitely helped me mature and make better decisions in the future,” Southworth says. The opportunity wasn’t lost on Pratt-Harrington either. “If I hadn't taken a year off, my first year (at college) would not have been much fun,” she says. “I think I would have hated some of my less interesting classes, felt helpless sometimes when facing things in the system I wasn't familiar with and I probably would have been a lot more stressed just trying to deal with all the changes.” Unexpected changes aren’t exclusively a part of college life. Even when plans are made, time away from home and straying from the direct route to college can still inspire a plan to turn another direction. Asked which decision he was most grateful he made in his time off, Southworth says, “I am probably most grateful that I did not reenlist in the Army. I was going to re-enlist in Iraq, giving me a $10,000 tax free signing bonus. But some things hap- pened that made me change my mind. As a result, I ended up in Ohio and so many doors were opened for me.” Sometimes the most rewarding aspect of a gap year can be the surprises a dorm room might not otherwise inspire. That was certainly the case with Southworth. “You can make plans, but life never goes as one would expect it to, so roll with it,” he says. “Go with the flow. You will always end up where you are supposed to be, no matter which road you take.” Time off after high school can be a rewarding adventure when executed with passion and intent. Ultimately, there is a difference between a plan and an endeavor. A plan is a structured account for a goal — ideas and timelines that ideally lead to a specific achievement. An endeavor is an earnest and industrious perseverance to materialize a dream. For some, the gap year isn’t the best direction to take if there isn’t something very specific an individual seeks to attain outside the academic arena. But for others, a rich future is most adequately attained through a seasoned past. And time off after graduation can provide that for those most suited for it. �STREETVIBES April 2009 Poetry/Artwork 9 First Lady By JaMar MalcolM KinG Dear God, please send me a “first lady.” The ones I care about be treating me shady. I need someone to help with all my task. I crave love and understanding. Is that too much too ask? Artwork by Anthony Williams Malcolm had Betty, Martin had Coretta. These strong women made them better. In all the struggle and the pain, These men had love as their gain. Barack has his Michelle. Will I find mine? Only time will tell. Maybe one day I, too, will be a president. I need a lady on my side to represent. Berta’s Art Corner Cleo’s Joke Corner Flamingo, (1974), Alexander Calder, Federal Center Plaza, Chicago, Illinois What did the digital watch say to the grandfather clock? “Look, grandpa, no hands!” 1128 Walnut St Pizza by the Slice Tues and Thurs Buffet($7.00)-11AM-2PM Wed-Thur-Fri-Sat 9PM-3AM �Column 10 Eating While You Can Poverty and the culture of immediacy “It’s the first of the month. You can’t fill ‘em up.” That was Jeanetta, waitress at Tucker’s on 13th Street, surveying the whole families in the back booths. For many years, she served me breakfast at the counter -- eggs, fried potatoes, toast and very strong coffee in white china cups of a sort you don’t see anymore. Jeanetta leaned against the cash register and shook her head, She evidently did not approve of how these people ate so much at the first of the month. They should have been working, for one thing. For another, they should have been planning out how to spend their money. Making it stretch. Budgeting. Prioritizing. Planning. Instead, they were eating. They were eating more than they were likely to eat the rest of the month. They were eating more than it made sense to eat, given how little they had to make it through the month. By the end of the month, they would be coming around to churches to beg a bag of food to carry them through the last week of the month. They would be working under the table and hoping no one called in on them. They would be buying groceries on credit at the stores that would allow for that. They would be hungry. And it happened every month, so you would think they would know. You would think they would do what the social workers told them. You would think they would plan. I think some of them did. I think some of them planned a planned it well, and you made the food stamps stretch across a whole month, that meant you were bound to be a little hungry for the full 30 days. But if your planning were a little bit off, if someone got arrested, or your car got towed out of a 4-to-6 p.m. zone or if you got robbed, your budget would fall apart. Any little bump in the road could derail all your planning. That last week of the month –- or more — might mean real hunger. Any way you planned it, you were bound to be hungry. by MiChael henSon So here you are, with money in your pocket once-per-month feast into their and the chance to be full, rebudgets. But I think, for most, ally full, no stinting, no filling the hunger they had felt in the yourself with beans or macalast week led to the gorging of roni just to keep from starvthe first week. ing, It’s guaranteed, at least And why not? For, no mat- this once, you will be full, satter how well you planned, no isfied, sated. matter how carefully you proWhat do you do? jected, that check would not ***** stretch to the end of the month. No matter how you juggled it, that check would not cover all Payday loans. Instant tax your needs. Something was returns. Scratch-offs. Rent-tobound to be missing. If you own. These are just a few of ammered H Herds: Alone Again, Naturally less the wolf hates the groom, a wedding is “a painful thing to witness.” He includes much colorful language detailing “this insidiously feminine carnival.” Attending religious services is for sheep, naturally, and universities no longer (if they ever did) allow the freedom of thought and speech that the lone wolf requires: “The muddleheaded bureaucrats who mismanage our overpriced universities tacitly endorse thought control.” Reed reminds us that all learning is ultimately a solitary experience, and he traces the roots of political correctness to America's long history of anti-intellectualism. He advocates for a broad, liberal education – obsession with vocational training is just another result of our anti-intellectual culture. He really, really hates television and shopping malls. He later explains (unsurprisingly) that “politics is dirty” and has no place for a lone wolf. Corporations are collectivist, too, and so Reed hates them just as eloquently as he hates all other collectivist atrocities and vents against them in a most endearing fashion in the third chapter. Anyone who has ever worked for a corporation can surely appreciate this assessment: “(Joiners) exact satisfaction in the knowledge that they're a small (if all but Michael Henson is author of Ransack, A Small Room with Trouble on My Mind, The Tao of Longing and Crow Call. This column is part of a monthly series on poverty and addiction. the ways that the poor reach fication will eventually come. what would normally be out But what if nothing in your of their reach. In a society like experience has ever taught ours, the poor see what every- you anything like that? What one else sees on television and if the lessons of your experilearn to want what everyone ence have taught you that, if you don’t else wants. As Rich and poor watch Michael Harget it now, rington said in the same TV ads; rich y o u ’ l l his book, The and poor children learn never get New Amerito become consumers it? Becan Poverty, cause that before they learn to the rich and is precisebecome producers the poor “have ly what or earners. What you the same sopoverty cialization teaches, consume becomes a of desire.” especialpart of who you are. Rich and poor ly when watch the poverty is same TV ads; rich and poor linked to addiction. There are children learn to become con- just too many ways things can sumers before they learn to go wrong. become producers or earners. There are many people who What you consume becomes a buck that trend. Most people part of who you are. work their way out of poverty precisely by doing the right thing. They go to school; they ***** work. It’s a long haul, and ofThe ability to delay gratifi- ten they slide back, but they cation is supposed to be a key keep trying. to achievement, progress, adSo maybe once a month or vancement, success, that house so, they’ll go to a place like in the suburbs with two cars Tucker’s on 13th and enjoy in the driveway. But it helps what’s there. Maybe once to have evidence that, if you a month, it’s nice not to feel delay gratification, then grati- hungry. (continued from page 6) ture on the former site of the World Trade Center. Chapter Four is outing everything fraternal, from the We are a nation that worships the team player, the sheep who join fraternal organizations, the company man. We reward the followers and fear the independent thinkers. useless) part of a big, not especially dynamic, faceless team mismanaged by moronic bureaucrats whose objective is to control whomever and whatever is controllable.” Team players are praised in all forms of our culture – he repeats the “there is no 'I' in 'team'” mantra a few times in the book, as if he still can't get over how banal it is – but Reed reminds us what actually makes up a team in a bureaucratic setting: “A room full of lumbering lard-asses who will require 24 to 36 hours to destroy an excellent idea, far better left in the hand of one individual.” He then almost whimsically reels off recent failures of “teams” who could not save themselves from selfdestruction: the auto companies, Enron, FEMA and that wonderful committee of folks who built that beautiful struc- STREETVIBES April 2009 Greek groups at universities to fraternal organizations outside universities to sports teams to the military to shopping on Black Friday. One imagines the Grinch looking disapprovingly on Whoville, complaining of all the “noise, noise, noise.” The concluding chapter deals with the intellectual loner finding a triumphant place in society. Reed tries to engage some sort of misanthropic optimism, but it is hard for me to read it without thinking of Stanley Fish and his interpretive communities, wherein meaning is found not by the individual, but by the community in which he places himself. “The individual is king,” Reed opines, and thus the soul who chooses to reject the masses and go it alone gains self-knowledge and self-reliance, and hence has fulfilled his duty to life itself. Devote yourself to music and exercise and knowledge, a sort of Platonian self-help assessment. It's a conclusion the hermit would find satisfying … but, methinks, only the hermit. If one of the mindless herd reads the last chapter, he would be overwhelmed with evidence that such a life appears to be quite pointless. The intellectual loner has no place to go except the university, but he hates the university, which has its own corporate structure and is filled with students proud of their anti-intellectual passions, whom the intellectual doesn't want to waste his time teaching. The intellectual could write books, but then he goes on for pages about the number of great alcoholic writers from the loner world. Without stating so, his prose evidences a tautological fact: If you're a hermit, there's no acceptable place for you in society, really. “They like more than anything to discourage, undermine, derail and detract.” Reed is speaking of the herd mentality here, taking one last shot at its utter uselessness. But he just spent an entire book discouraging, undermining, derailing and detracting, and he seemed to enjoy it. The intellectual won't see the irony as a problem at all and in fact would delight in it. But for the herd, it's just further proof that, if he is to find any real meaning in life, it's gonna be through other people. Still, it is amazing to think that in this 24-hour news world, where every story is reported, blogged, youtubed and twittered, I don't recall seeing one thing blaming groupthink for our current economic mess. Credit default swaps, giving worthless assets AAA ratings, convincing everyone that 401Ks are the best way to a comfortable retirement (not to mention the war in Iraq) … It's delusional bureaucratic incompetence at its best and it was conducted by some of the best minds in the country, all of whom were forced to think as a team. It's because of our anesthetized reaction to a clear failure of groupthink that this book serves to remind us that maybe we've overvalued our commitment to committees, our cultural acceptance that two heads are better than one. It makes me mad enough to want to get drunk, sleep with some disgruntled housewife, and howl at the moon. �STREETVIBES April 2009 Column 11 An Artist Among Us Master luthier lives and works in Over-the-Rhine ment in the Mideast, as a child. By anDrew anDerson He quickly found his way to the violin and fell in love. He Contributing Writer made his first violin at 16, and Most people would be then made six more, winning shocked to know that a master a scholarship to study his craft luthier not only lives in Over- in France. the-Rhine Azzi reA shop you would only ceived his but has run expect to find in the a successful, diploma cultural enclaves of world-class from the famed Miviolin shop old European cities for the past recourt or possibly New York seven years. violin-makthrives right here. A shop you ing school would only in eastern expect to find in the cultural France. While there he worked enclaves of old European on instruments for top violin cities or possibly New York soloists including Vladimir thrives right here. Spivakof and Yury Bashmet. A silent buzzer has alerted He traveled to Paris and studthe shopkeeper, Jules Azzi, ied with master luthier Roger that he has a guest. Upon en- Lanne and developed a spetry it takes a moment for your cial talent for copying rare eyes to adjust to the subdued Italian violins. From there he light. You immediately know traveled to New York to refine things are different. The cha- his technique with Jacques otic, noisy, urban landscape Francais for a couple years, of Over-the-Rhine contrasts then opened his own shop in sharply with the silent, still, Brooklyn. In 1996 he won slightly austere elegance of the silver medal at the Violin the shop’s interior. Competition of America for Azzi stands before you his viola, as well as a certifidressed smartly but understat- cate of merit for a violin. ed; his calm and steady voice Andy Wolf, a former bassist welcomes you in an accent who played and toured with you can’t quite place. You the Cincinnati Symphony Orhave entered his violin shop at chestra (CSO) for 39 years, 14th and Elm streets. introduced Azzi to Cincinnati. Azzi is a world-class lu- Their shared passion for viothier, someone who makes or lins and other bowed, stringed repairs stringed instruments. instruments and their friendOriginally from the Lebanese ship resulted in Wolf’s urging Republic, he started playing Azzi to move to Cincinnati. the lute, a traditional instruAzzi saw Cincinnati as a city with a rich musical heritage, a strong orchestra in the CSO, half a dozen other orchestras within a short distance from the city, and no one around with his level of artistry and craftsmanship. He moved to Cincinnati seven years ago and has since started a family here. While the local market is what attracted Azzi to Cincinnati, the unbridled growth of the Internet has changed marketing for almost everyone, including Azzi. He now sells his services to a global market and reaches a geographically wider audience than he did when he had his shop in Brooklyn. Azzi’s main focus now is collecting and selling old and rare Italian instruments and French bows, because those items are the most valued and desired by fine musicians across the world. While these are the facts of Azzi’s story, they only hint at the enthusiasm and genuine warmth that he exudes. He is one of those rare people who has found his passion in life and lives it. “It doesn’t matter what troubles are happening in the world or my personal life,” he says. “When I walk into my workshop, I am happy.” Azzi spent over an hour demonstrating how he lovingly and meticulously crafts his instruments. He showed in detail how he cuts and as- Jules Azzi, master luthier in Over-the-Rhine. Photo by Andrew Anderson. sembles selected pieces of wood that are up to 300 years old and creates masterpieces. He detailed the huge significance of the proper varnish on an instrument and how it can either make or break the quality of sound produced. Azzi is not only an artisan but also a scientist. Azzi is also an example for all of us: When you do what you love, work becomes play, and the days become brighter. Azzi’s shop of violins, violas, cellos, bass and bows is open by appointment. Call 513 665-9663 or visit www. azzi-violins.com. down on my luck these days,” Mr. Westcott replied. “When you’re down, you’ve got to pull yourself back up. You know that, Robert. You’re a banker.” “Yes, sir,” Robert said. “It’s been a rough road for us lately.” “That bailout money – how much did you get?” “Oh, four or five billion.” “I won’t be needing that much,” Mr. Westcott said. “What happened?” “Lost a bunch of money in the stock market, made some bad investments,” Mr. Westcott replied. “You might say everything kind of snowballed.” “Well, let me turn on my computer here and get your current account information,” Robert said. As Robert turned on his computer, he noticed that his old business associate’s hands were shaking. Mr. Westcott noticed him noticing. “I guess it’s a little early for a drink,” he said, “but Handouts and Bailouts A banker’s story At 11:20, Sally buzzed Robert on his office phone and told him Mr. Westcott was waiting in the conference By larry Gross room. That was just like him, Contributing Writer Robert thought to himself. Mr. Robert normally didn’t Westcott was always punctual meet with customers who if not a bit early. Before heading toward the were inquiring about consumconference er loans. He room, Robstopped doing - “Where are you ert grabbed those 15 years currently living?” his laptop and three - “Garfield Park, just in case promotions Westago – but he Bench #6, Cincinnati, Mr. Ohio, 45202.” cott needed remembered to look over Mr. Westcott. some loan It had been a number of years since he’d rates his bank was offering. When he reached the conferseen him. Maybe it was curience room, the door was open. osity that made him agree to He saw a man sitting in one of the 11:30 a.m. meeting. He told his assistant Sally the chairs to the left, next to he would meet with Mr. West- the conference table. Beside cott in the conference room on him on the floor was a beat-up the second floor. This would suitcase. The man’s back was give them a comfortable place to him. Robert wasn’t sure if it to meet and maybe catch up was Mr. Westcott. “Mr. Westcott?” Robert on old times. said, noticing the dirty smell in the room. The gentlemen stood up and turned around. His hair was white and over his collar. He hadn’t shaved in days. He was wearing a tan suit that was wrinkled and dirty. So were his white shirt and tie. Robert sniffed. The dirty smell was coming from Mr. Westcott. “How you been, Robert?” Mr. Westcott said, extending his hand. “It’s been a while.” Robert shook his hand. “Good to see you, sir,” he said stammering a bit. “Please have a seat.” Robert walked to the right of the conference table, taking a seat opposite Mr. Westcott. He looked at his old customer’s puffy face and sad brown eyes. Robert wondered what he was letting himself in for. “What can I do for you?” Robert said, trying to force a smile. “Well, Robert, as you can probably tell, I’m a bit �12 STREETVIBES April 2009 Short Story Handouts and Bailouts (Continued from page 12) maybe after we get this business transaction completed, if you’re interested.” “I’m sorry,” Robert said interrupting, “I have a luncheon appointment.” “Yeah, I used to have those,” Mr. Westcott replied. “Now, are you still at your old address?” Robert said, looking at his laptop. “Oh, hell no.” “Where are you currently living?” “Garfield Park, Bench #6, Cincinnati, Ohio, 45202.” “What?” “You might say I’m currently homeless,” Mr. Westcott said. “That’s why I need the loan, to get started again.” Robert looked at the information on the laptop. Mr. Westcott no longer had any money in the bank except for a checking account with a balance of $4.10. “There’s no way you could personally guarantee that a loan would be repaid,” Robert said. Mr. Westcott laughed. “I guess I could guarantee you my suitcase and the clothes on my back,” he said, “but that’s not what you’re looking for is it?” “Well, no, we need --” “This is what I need,” Mr. Westcott said, leaning forward and putting his shaking hands on the conference room table. “I need a favor. You and I did business for a lot of years. I helped make this bank money. I can do it again if I can just get a little help to get started.” “But you have no capital,” Robert said. “We have nothing we can work with here.” “I’m looking for a loan based on past history,” Mr. Westcott said. “What you’re looking for,” Robert replied, starting to feel annoyed, “is a handout.” Mr. Westcott smiled, leaning closer to Robert. “When you’re forced to wear dirty clothes, forced to try and get yourself cleaned up at the public library and forced to sleep on a park bench, I can see how a banker would think I’m looking for a handout,” he said. “Of course, if you’re one of those bankers wearing a Brook Brothers suit and get down on your luck, you can go to the government and get yourself a bailout. Where am I supposed to go?” Robert stared at Mr. Westcott, not knowing what to say. “Don’t be one of those bankers. Help me, Robert,” Mr. Westcott said. “We’ve known each other for years. You know I’m a man of my word.” Robert continued to stare at Mr. Westcott. He remembered the old days, when he was a proud businessman who always had good ideas as to how to make money. He felt sad for his old business associate. “How much money are you looking for?” Robert finally said, reaching into his suit pocket and pulling out his checkbook. “I’m thinking a couple thousand will get me going.” Mr. Westcott replied. “I’ll write you a check for four thousand,” Robert said. “Give me a couple hours to transfer some money out of one of my savings accounts and put it in my checking.” “Robert, I’m not looking for a personal loan from you.” “It’s the only way I can do it, sir,” Robert said. “You don’t have enough assets to cover a bank loan.” “Robert --” “I know you’re good for it,” Robert said, writing the check. “As you said, I should base this on past history. I trust you.” As he ripped the check from the checkbook and handed it over, he noticed tears in Mr. Westcott’s eyes. “I – I don’t know what to say,” Mr. Westcott said. “Just say you’ll pay it back to me when you can,” Robert replied. “That’s all I ask.” “Well, I most certainly will. You have my word on that. Thank you so --” “Mr. Westcott, I have to go,” Robert said. “Remember; give me a couple hours to get funds into that account.” “Not a problem,” Mr. Westcott replied. “I’ll wait until much later today.” “I’m sorry to rush off, but I’m going to be late for my lunch appointment,” Robert said. “Do you know the way out?” Mr. Westcott said yes. Robert smiled, shook his old business associate’s hand, grabbed his laptop and hurried back to his office. When he reached his office, he called the maintenance department and instructed them to have a cleaning person go to the conference room and spray flowery sprays that would make the room smell better. As he gathered papers he needed for his luncheon appointment, he thought of Mr. Westcott and his bad luck. He wished he could do something meaningful to help him. He also hoped Mr. Westcott’s dirty smell hadn’t rubbed off on his Brook Brothers suit. Before leaving his office, Robert called his assistant Sally, gave her the number of the check he’d given Mr. Westcott and instructed her to stop payment on it immedi- Crossword ately. He also told Sally to call security and have them review the film from the cameras and to write down a description of Mr. Westcott. Robert didn’t want him allowed in the bank again. As Robert left the bank and rushed down the sidewalk, he felt proud. He’d avoided a nasty scene of having to call security to have Mr. Westcott escorted out of the bank; he’d saved an old customer that embarrassment. He’d handled the situation well. Nearing the restaurant, looking at his watch, he thought again of Mr. Westcott and how he was now beyond help. He couldn’t possibly get involved with an old customer’s bad situation, couldn’t open the door to him wanting even more money in the future. It could also lead to others down on their luck knocking on his door for a handout. It was better to stop it now. When he opened the door to the restaurant for his luncheon appointment, he also reminded himself not to get involved with consumer loans ever again. Robert stopped doing those 15 years and three promotions ago. Sudoku 8 Down Across 1. Workers 5. Misty 9. Dope (Southern) 10. Furry 11. Living spaces 13. Go up 15. Most tidy 15. Remove illegally 21. Highland 24. Faint 26. Rustic 28. Dog 29. Bore 30. Henry and Jane ----, thespians 31. Bulks large 1.Bush 2. As well 3. Solitary 4. Renown 5.An act avoiding a loss of dignity (4,5) 6. Slippery liquids 7. Breakfast dish 8. Exercise establishment 12. Mexican general (5,4) 14. Obtain by paying 17. School transport 18. Smooch 19. Oddity 20. Functions 22. Flashy 23. Car 25. World Health Organization 27. Provide with weapons 3 5 8 7 4 6 6 9 8 1 7 8 4 6 1 9 5 3 1 2 4 8 5 Fill in the blank squares so that each row, each column and each 3-by-3 block contain all of the digits 1 through 9. The fundamental goal of a Sudoku puzzle is to use the provided numbers, or givens, to discover which numbers logically fill in the empty squares. The only rule of Sudoku is that each of the nine rows, each of the nine columns, and each of the nine 3x3 subsections must contain all of the numbers from one to nine, and each number consequently can occur in each row, column, and subsection only once. Answers on Page 15 �STREETVIBES April 2009 Short Story 13 Paddy A pound for a pint denied, a proper kiss bestowed 1 By anGela Pancella Contributing Writer at him. "Sex," he replied. The doors of the club would His matter-ofopen at 8; it was now 6. She fact manner caught had gotten to the London sub- her off-guard. She urb of Harlesden purposefully managed to say, early with the intent of getting "Sorry, not interacquainted with the area: the ested," and walk bus line, the route to the club. away without beShe was a very long way from ing accosted furhome and not all that close to ther. But now she where she was staying, either, was leery of findand didn't want to get lost in ing another bench such alien territory. and attempting again to read But she had two hours to kill her Roald Dahl book. before the concert. She walked In the end, her aching feet in and out of the only interest- made the decision for her. She ing shop -- a record store with sat where benches circled the prominent displays of Menu- Harlesden Jubilee Clock, this do albums -- five times. Now suburb's idea of a town square. it was closing, as everything An old wino sat on the bench else was. opposite. She did The old wino had been "Old winos have a book are better joined by a young than young with her, one, a sturdy fellow though. The winos" had with short-cropped trick was been her hair trying to beg finding an reasonmoney for a pint from ing when inconspicuher in a brogue so ous place to choosing read it. thick she could barely this locaReading tion. Maybe understand him. this book with him had gotten sitting there, her in trouble earlier in the no one else would bother her. day in Hyde Park. She'd been She flipped open the book. Its sitting in a garden area by a cover was black, with a large trellis covered in roses when eyeball painted in psychedelic she noticed a man with white colors. and red sneakers passing by "Excuse me, sweetheart," and grinning. He passed by said a voice a short time later. and grinned several times. She Lo and behold, the old left the park; he followed her wino had been joined by a out. young one, a sturdy fellow "Excuse me?" he called. with short-cropped hair trying She turned and glared, more to beg money for a pint from annoyed than frightened. her in a brogue so thick she "What? What do you could barely understand him. want?" She turned him down several "I want to ask you some- times -- he was quite persisthing." tent as well as incomprehen"About what?" she barked sible -- and tried to get back to her book. "Are ye lost?" "No, I'm seeing a show at the Mean Fiddler." "That's just up the road! Can ye get me in, too, love?" "No." "C'mere," he said, patting the bench beside him. The old wino was still at the other end, looking zoned; she wondered if he'd heard any of this exchange or would come to her aid in a time of trouble. She balked about moving for a long time, then finally thought, oh, whatever. As she sat, he leaned in. "In exchange for getting me in to the Mean Fiddler, I'll give you an ipener." "Sorry?" "Look." He pointed to the cover of the Roald Dahl book. "There's an eye, right? I'll give you an eye op'ner." She got it. He grinned. What's the deal with this city, she wondered. "Sorry, not interested." She went to sit on her bench again. He let her sit in peace a few minutes. "What's yer given name, sweetheart?" She told him. "My name's Paddy." She had to laugh. "Could've guessed that." He laughed, too. "It's me red face that does it, isn't it? Look, today's me birthday, so how 'bout a pound to buy me a drink for it?" "You win points for trying, Paddy, you really do, but I'm a mean, nasty person, and the answer's no." A few more minutes passed in silence while she tried picking up the thread of the short story again -- something about a woman and a husband and an elevator. "Know what you remind me of?" Paddy said suddenly. "A turneyose." "A what?" "Ever been in a rose garden? A turney rose." "Oh! Thorny! I get it." Successful conversation was beginning to seem like victory. "I take that as a compliment." "I meant it as one." An old lady came and hailed Paddy. He left for a while as she introduced herself -- her name was Mary, and she had the filthiest mouth imaginable for a grandmotherly type. Paddy came back with two beers -- one for himself, one for Mary -- and a cigarette that he tried to give the old woman. "Stick it up yer hole," she grumbled. "I would, but it's lit. I'm not as kinky as you, Mary." Paddy was somehow less threatening with someone else there. The girl put down Roald Dahl and engaged him in conversation. "I've been divorced, separated from my children, I lost my job, my dog got run over," he told her. As random pedestrians passed, he called out to them. "Sugar Ray Leonard!" he yelled as a skinny black man passed. "I'm beginning to understand your strategy," she remarked. He winked and grinned. A blonde lady walked by next; he yelled, "Michelle Pfeiffer!" She turned with a laugh but kept on. "If they laugh, you've won half the battle," he said seriously, like sharing a trade secret. So the evening passed in a mix of deep but incomprehensible monologues from Mary, who gripped the girl's shoulder like she was her long-lost granddaughter, and dark jokes from Paddy. "See that over there?" He pointed to the Harlesden Jubilee Clock; at its base was a little sign, "DO NOT FEED THE PIGEONS." "Back when I had a job I added a sign o'me own: DO NOT FEED THE TOSSERS. Drunks, y'know. Now look where I am!" He laughed. He had a great laugh, she thought. He used it often. "Things always come back to you, don't they?" "That's the truth, sweetheart. That's the very truth." Concert time. She got a kiss from Mary in farewell. Paddy wanted to walk her to the club. "Stay!" she ordered. "Mary?" The old lady grabbed his arm, and the girl left. But Paddy followed. "Just let me walk you over. Let me walk down the street with a pretty girl. You're wily as a fox, you know? I think you're a few roads ahead of me, and that's saying somethin'. Didn't we have a good time? Don't I get a birthday kiss? Here we are at the Mean Fiddler." He turned his head away like a protest. "If I get a kiss, you better give it to me now." She took his hand and kissed it. They walked to the very door of the club. "Don't I get a proper kiss? How can I go without a proper kiss?" She let him kiss her cheek; she kissed his scruffy cheek in return. "Now go away, Paddy," she said with a stern laugh and a push. He took her hand with a warm smile, almost wistful "God bless. Listen..." His eyes were unsure now, an unusual expression for such a seemingly practiced con artist. "I'm a bum and a tosser, but I'm pretty all right anyway, right?" She shook his hand, holding the fingers tight and holding his gaze. "That's right. God bless, Paddy." He walked off and she never saw him again. �14 STREETVIBES April 2009 Local News Explosive Idea: Food, Not Bombs Volunteers save food from going to waste, serve it free By alecia a. lott Contributing Writer It had never occurred to me that Cincinnati would have its own chapter of Food Not Bombs, the international grassroots movement that works to call attention to poverty and homelessness by distributing free vegetarian food made mostly from ingredients that would have otherwise gone to waste. Formed in Cambridge, Mass., in 1980 by anti-nuclear activists, in books and online, the simple philosophy of Food Not Bombs made me long to join: “Food is a right, not a privilege, and if governments spent more money on feeding their citizens than they do on wars, no one would go hungry.” I thought such a group would only exist in cities notorious for their huge homeless populations, such Los Angeles or New York, until I walked past a flyer on a telephone pole. When I contacted the Cincinnati chapter, which has been meeting on-and-off since 2001, the members invited me to help them cook for their next gathering. The group would be serving food at its usual location, Washington Park in Over-the-Rhine. Eager to assist, I asked what I should bring. “Just bring something you inside had been found in a think would be good in a garbage bin behind a gour- stew,” one of the members, met grocer in Kenwood. Anna Dave, told w a l k e d me. Once the serving area in with a “ S t e w, flower in was set up on a bike huh,” I her hair and trailer draped with a thought, two colorc o n j u r i n g Food Not Bombs sign, ful, though visions of a a hungry crowd quickly s o m e w h a t grey, Dick- grew. About 50 people wilted, bouensian gruel quets, reof various ages and sloshed into trieved from races lined up to be fed. bowls by a florist’s the ladleful. discards. I arrived March 21 at the Charlie played his mandogroup’s cooking location, lin. Shane and Nina quartered which turned out to be a spa- apples and smothered them cious loft where a few of the with sunflower-seed butter, members live. When I walked something I’d never tried but in with my bag full of canned quickly became addicted to. beans and corn, I noticed an Braxton began frying crispy, abundance of fresh vegetables golden-brown potato panand fruit on the kitchen coun- cakes, only a small quantity ter. Dave and another mem- of which actually made it to ber, Chris, proudly told me Washington Park because the food was donated by an everyone wanted to, ahem, eccentric local farmer. inspect them. All the while, Soon, the the stew kept growing until it cooking and reached the top of the pot. socializing The vegetables weren’t began. A large perfect; some of the tomatoes soup pot was were mushy and therefore placed on the difficult to slice. The celery stove, and we was yellow. The eggplant was began chop- overripe, with tough skin and ping carrots, well-developed seeds. But tomatoes, cel- from such humble beginnings ery, eggplant — food that would have othand potatoes; erwise ended up in a landfill opening cans — came a colorful, hearty, of beans and tasty (or so I’m told) meal for crumbling tofu. All were sim- many people. So much for my mered into stew. visions of Oliver Twist. More members showed At 3:30 p.m. we arrived up, greeting everyone with in Washington Park via foot, hugs and stories about what bicycle and, in my case, a trithey brought. Ryan and Mike cycle, ready to share the food. plopped a large cardboard box It was sunny and warm, and on the kitchen island, noting many people were already sitthat the fruit and vegetables ting on the wall surrounding Two women protesting the Iraq War and promoting the Food Not Bombs movement. Photo by Aimie Willhoite. the park. We stationed ourselves on the sidewalk at 12th and Elm streets. Ryan later said Food Not Bombs has been approached by police officers — he used a less polite name for them — because a permit is required to serve food in parks. Once the serving area was set up on a bike trailer draped with a Food Not Bombs sign, a hungry crowd quickly grew. About 50 people of various ages and races lined up to be fed. Some were homeless, some were not. All were welcomed with a smile, possibly a hug and conversation and a plate of food. Members quickly took on various duties, serving, washing plates and silverware, entertaining children with their music. Only purchase Streetvibes from BADGED vendors. Vendors wear their WHITE badges while they sell the paper. Missed an Issue? Check out the Streetvibes archive at www.cincihomeless.org/content/streetvibes I blinked and the stew, along with the rest of the food, was gone, and our little gathering was over as quickly as it began. As the other members packed up to leave and the crowd dispersed, I stared down into the empty pot and was at first disappointed that I didn’t get to taste any of its contents. But then I looked up and saw people who were likely much hungrier than I was, initially approaching but quickly turning on their heels with a frown once they realized there was no more food. Frustrated, I knew I’d be back the following Saturday to help again. If you would like to join or donate food to Food Not Bombs, write to cincinnati_ fnb@yahoo.com or visit www. myspace.com/cincinnati_fnb. �STREETVIBES April 2009 Local News 15 The Crisis Next Door Foreclosure is no longer a hidden problem By Mary MetzMeier Dave scHarFenBerG Contributing WriterS There were 6,673 new foreclosure filings in Hamilton County last year — an increase of 6.3 percent over 2007 filings Marilyn Evans, president and double the statewide avof the South Cumminsville erage increase of 3.1 percent. Community Council, knows In addition, there were 5,382 firsthand the impact that fore- Hamilton County homes listclosures can have on a com- ed in the first week’s Sheriff munity. Listing. This In the county, “South Cumnumber indiminsville is a the communities cates how many proud commu- hardest hit were homeowners are nity,” she says. facing severe fiCleves at 3.84 “Many of our percent and Golf nancial difficulresidents have ties with their Manor at 3.65 lived their whole mortgage loans. percent. lives in the While the neighborhood. area’s larger For some, they neighborhoods are the third or fourth gen- continue to experience the eration in this community. We most foreclosures, smaller have women who are in their neighborhoods are losing 90s and still working. We large numbers of homeowners have a homeownership rate of to foreclosure. For example, in 58 percent. Now that is threat- Cincinnati, the neighborhoods ened by foreclosures.” of Lower Price Hill, South Foreclosures in Hamilton Fairmount and Mt. Auburn County are rising and are par- lost over 5 percent of their ticularly impacting smaller homeowners to foreclosure communities, according to last year. In the county, the a new report by Working In communities hardest hit were Neighborhoods (WIN). Seven Cleves at 3.84 percent and years ago WIN issued a re- Golf Manor at 3.65 percent. port on foreclosures called, Busch tied another con“The Silent Crisis.” That title cern with foreclosures to the wouldn’t work today. gloomy economy. “We’ve move to a very “One of the saddest things loud crisis,” says Sister Bar- about this report is that only bara Busch, WIN’s executive 3.1 percent of the homes were director. “In 2009 there is no sold to anyone but the lender,” neighborhood left that is not she says. “In most cases, the affected by this foreclosure lender retained ownership of crisis. … We have lost almost the property after the sher4.3 percent of all Hamilton iff’s sale. This is the first time County’s housing stock to we’ve seen this trend, and it’s foreclosure — that’s huge.” because the market is bad.” WIN’s new study, “The WIN’s report shows that the Crisis Next Door,” shows that top six lenders with the highHamilton County experienced est number of foreclosures 3,081 foreclosures in 2008. have remained the same since anD 2002. The lenders generating the most foreclosures in Hamilton County for 2008 were US Bank, Wells Fargo Bank, Deutsche Bank National Trust Company, Bank of America, JP Morgan and Chase Bank. Busch called for business and government to take action in order to retain home ownership in Hamilton County. “Much to my despair, we only see mandatory loan modifications,” she says. “Lenders are fearful that they will be sued by the investors if they modify loans. I think the government needs to protect the lenders from this threat.” The foreclosure crisis shouldn’t come as a surprise, according to Roger Davis, president of Communities United For Action and cochair of Citizens Against Loan Sharks. “When we started organizing around foreclosures and predatory lending eight years Marilyn Evans says it’s time for a moratorium on foreclosures. ago, nobody else wanted to Photo courtesy of Working in Neighbhorhoods. admit the problem existed,” he says. “Now everyone is af- moratorium. We have testified eowners to get loan modificafected, whether it affects you in favor of this bill and encour- tions and avoid foreclosure,” age others to do the same.” Busch says. “The support or someone else you know.” In spite of all the bad news, from the city of Cincinnati and Davis endorses a proposed Busch sees Hamilton County has helped moratoriof us reach more families.” um on fore- “We started organizing signs hope. She Working In Neighborclosures. around foreclosures points out hoods, a Cincinnati-based “ W e and predatory lending that the pro- non-profit organization that need a moreight years ago. portion of strives to stabilize neighboratorium on homes sold hoods and families through Nobody else wanted forecloat sheriff’s home ownership, last year, ofsures now,” to admit the problem sales com- fered foreclosure counseling he says. existed.” pared to to 225 families and saved 135 “We are - Roger Davis those listed homes from foreclosure. WIN excited that has steadily also teaches families how to state repredeclined. purchase their first home and sentatives “Certainly, we know that educates neighborhood leadDenise Driehaus and Michael our housing counselors have ers to improve their commuFoley have introduced legislamade a difference for hom- nities. tion to establish a six-month Puzzle Solutions 8 2 1 7 4 6 9 5 3 5 9 6 8 1 3 7 2 4 7 4 3 2 5 9 8 6 1 4 6 5 9 8 7 1 3 2 9 1 7 3 2 5 4 8 6 2 3 8 4 6 1 5 9 7 6 5 4 1 3 8 2 7 9 3 7 1 8 2 9 5 6 9 7 4 2 6 3 1 4 8 5 �16 Vendors Resource Guide STREETVIBES April 2009 Streetvibes vendors buy the paper for 25 cents and sell the paper for $1, keeping the money they have earned. The vendors can be identified with a white badge and can be found selling the paper in downtown Cincinnati, Clifton, Northern Kentucky and area churches. The money they earn helps them meet basic housing, food and health care needs. Not all vendors pictured. Josephine Baskerville Doris Binion Terry Ranson Anthony Williams Nell Williams Grady Cook Cleo Wombles James Davis Jon Darby Dede Stoops Julie Walker Kenneth Stonitsch Antonio Hodge Leonard Jackson Samuel Jackson Riccardo Taylor Alfred Woolfolk Berta Lambert Mary Mueller Brandon Nelson Mark Shears Terrence Williams Raynard Jones Richard Tyree Karen Collett Charles Cole Need Help or Want to Help? Shelter: Women and Children Central Access Point...381-SAFE Cincinnati Union Bethel...768-6907 Bethany House...557-2873 Grace Place Catholic Worker House...681-2365 Salvation Army...762-5660 YWCA Battered Women’s Shelter...872-9259 Talbert House...684-7965 Resources Treatment: Women First Step Home ...961-4663 Treatment: Both City Gospel Mission...241-5525 Justice Watch...241-0490 St. Fran/St. Joe Catholic Worker House...381-4941 Mt. Airy Shelter...661-4620 AA Hotline...351-0422 CCAT ...381-6672 Joseph House ...241-2965 Hamilton County ADAS Board ...946-4888 Recovery Health Access Center ...281-7422 Sober Living ...681-0324 Talbert House...641-4300 Shelter: Both Advocacy Anthony House (Youth)...961-4080 Caracole (HIV/AIDS)...761-1480 Drop Inn Center...721-0643 Interfaith Hospitality Network...471-1100 Lighthouse Youth Center...221-3350 St. John’s Housing...651-6446 Catholic Social Action ...421-3131 Community Action Agency ...569-1840 Contact Center...381-4242 Franciscan JPIC ...721-4700 Greater Cinci Coalition for the Homeless..421-7803 Intercommunity Justice and Peace Center...5798547 Legal Aid Society ...241-9400 Ohio Justice & Policy Center ...421-1108 Peaslee Neighborhood Center ...621-5514 Project Connect Homeless Kids ...363-3300 Stop AIDS...421-2437 Shelter: Men Housing: CMHA...721-4580 Excel Development...632-7149 OTR Community Housing...381-1171 Tender Mercies...721-8666 Tom Geiger House...961-4555 Dana Transitional Bridge Services Inc. ...751-0643 Volunteers of America...381-1954 Food Lord’s Pantry...621-5300 OTR/Walnut Hills Soup Kitchen & Pantry..961-1983 Our Daily Bread...621-6364 St. Francis Soup Kitchen...535-2719 Treatment: Men Charlie’s 3/4 House...784-1853 DIC Live In Program...721-0643 Prospect House...921-1613 Starting Over...961-2256 Health Center for Respite Care ...621-1868 Cincinnati Health Network ...961-0600 Crossroad Health Center ...381-2247 Hamilton county Mental Health Board...946-8600 Hamilton County TB Control ...946-7628 Health Resource Center ...357-4602 Homeless Mobile Health Van...352-2902 McMicken Dental Clinic...352-6363 Mental Health Access Point...558-8888 Mercy Franciscan at St. John...981-5800 NAMI of Hamilton County..458-6670 Oral Health Council...621-0248 PATH Outreach...977-4489 Catholic Social Services...241-7745 Center for Independent Living Options...241-2600 Churches Active in Northside...591-2246 Emmanuel Community Center...241-2563 FreeStore/FoodBank...241-1064 Franciscan Haircuts from the Heart...381-0111 Goodwill industries...771-4800 Healing Connections...751-0600 Madisonville Education & Assistance Center...2715501 Mary Magdalen House...721-4811 People Working Cooperatively...351-7921 St. Vincent de Paul...562-8841 The Caring Place...631-1114 United Way...721-7900 Women Helping Women...977-5541 Northern Kentucky Brighton Center...859-491-8303 ECHO/Hosea House...859-261-5857 Fairhaven Resuce Mission...859-491-1027 Homeward Bound Youth...859-581-1111 Mathews House...859-261-8009 NKY Homeless & Housing Coalition...859-727-0926 Parish Kitchen...859-581-7745 Pike St. Clinic...859-291-9321 Transitions, Inc...859-491-4435 Welcome House of NKY...859-431-8717 Women’s Crisis Center...859-491-3335 VA Domiciliary...859-559-5011 VA Homeless...859-572-6226 Hamilton/Middletown St. Raephaels...863-3184 Salvation Army...863-1445 Serenity House Day Center...422-8555 Open Door Pantry...868-3276 � Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource 2009 Text A resource consisting primarily of words for reading. Examples include books, letters, dissertations, poems, newspapers, articles, archives of mailing lists. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre Text. Original Format The type of object, such as painting, sculpture, paper, photo, and additional data Newspaper Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource April 2009 Subject The topic of the resource Homelessness Description An account of the resource Pg 1: Healer and Brother Treatment Center Under Attack Pg 2: The Vibe Pg 3: Eight Minute with Two ‘Outlaws’ Pg 4: Juvenile Justice Reform Underway Pg 5: Slaves Look Like Us Pg 6: Alone Again, Naturally Pg 7: First You have to Have Your Own Bootstraps Pg 8: Sexy, Yummy, Veggie Pg 9: Arts & Poetry Pg 10: Eating While You Can Pg 11: An Artist Among Us Handouts and Bailouts Pg 12: Handouts and Bailouts Continued Pg 13: Paddy Pg 14: Explosive Idea: Food, Not Bombs Pg 15: The Crisis Next Door Pg 16: Resource Guide Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Streetvibes Archive Project Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Streetvibes Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Greater Cincinnati Homeless Coalition Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource April 2009 Contributor An entity responsible for making contributions to the resource Gregory Flannery Stephanie Dunlap Margo Pierce Lew Moores, Paul Kopp Alecia Lott David Heitfield Dave Scharfenberger Angela Pancella Mike Henson Larry Gross Lynne Ausman Andrew Anderson Ariana Shahandeh Andrew Anderson Paul Kopp Anthony Williams Aimie Willhoite Joe Wessels Steve Novotni Andrew Freeze Georgine Getty Michael Henson Steve Gibbs Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource PDF Aimie Willhoite Alecia Lott Andrew Anderson Andrew Freeze Angela Pancella Anthony Williams Ariana Shahandeh Arts & Poetry Dave Scharfenberger David Heitfield education Georgine Getty Gregory Flannery Hate Crimes Human Trafficking Joe Wessels Journalism Juvenile Justice Reform Larry Gross Lew Moores Lynne Ausman Margo Pierce Michael Henson Mike Henson Over-the-Rhine Paul Kopp poverty reform Slavery Stephanie Dunlap Steve Gibbs Steve Novotni Students Treatment Center Volunteers https://streetvibesarchive.net/files/original/c2f905086777c5856032837832852040.pdf d1dbec4d4c3e4e182140175691278f43 PDF Text Text April 21st - M ay 4th 2017 | Vol. 20 Issue 35 (No. 354) advocating justice | Building community Art Saves Lives| 3 This issue sponsored by (Retired) Judge Mark P. Painter INSIDE THIS ISSUE Community Issues Forum Features Two Mayoral Candidates | 2 Bankrupting the Enemy: The U.S. Financial Siege of Japan | 8 The Archdiocese ’s Controversial Contract | 5 Tax Rally for Economic Justice | 9 Find previous issues of Streetvibes online at: cincistreetvibes.org Greater Cincinnati Homeless Coalition 113 E. 12th Street Cincinnati, Ohio 45202 streetvoice | 13 �2 LOCAL From the Director: Good Doesn’t Balance Bad JOSH SPRING D Executive Director oes doing good acts make it okay for you to do bad acts? Of course not. But regularly people and organizations turn the other way when so called “good” companies do bad things. We hear, “yeah, they are doing that, but look at all the good they have done.” Does doing good buy you something? Aren’t we supposed to do good because it is good, not because other people will notice, and certainly not to try to get a pass on doing bad things? I am thinking of companies that both build affordable housing and also displace other people from affordable housing; companies that donate funds to non-profits, but also don’t pay their employees a living wage; politicians who listen and speak, but don’t act positively for systematic change. Why do people go out of their way to thank for profit companies when they do in a given situation what is minimally right. A p r i l 2 1 - M a y 4 , 2 0 17 | N o . 35 4 Are we really thanking them for not choosing to do what was wrong? It seems that some people feel obligated to be sort of submissively thankful, and quiet, or we feel like if we call them out on the bad they do, that maybe they will stop doing the good and just do more bad. Or maybe we just like to act naively or accept too little. Whatever the causes are, we must stop this trend. We need to hold even so called “good” companies accountable. We must stop submitting for the very minimum of right actions as icing on top of bad. Either we are lying when we do this or we are choosing ignorance. When it comes to poverty and housing, ignorance is certainly not bliss for us. COMMUNITY ISSUES FORUM FEATURES TWO MAYORAL CANDIDATES BILL WOODS T he Community Issues Forum on April 13th provided a venue for the candidates running for Mayor of Cincinnati. The two nonincumbent candidates, Yvette Simpson and Rob Richardson, came and presented their views, while Mayor John Cranley did not attend. The mayoral primary takes place on May 2nd. Both Richardson and Simpson utilized the informal, non-debate format to discuss their backgrounds, approaches, and agendas for the City. Rob Richardson, the current Chairman of the University of Cincinnati's Board of Trustees, led off by emphasizing his systemic approach to addressing major issues such as the city's high poverty rate. Noting that the City is "at a turning point," he outlined several steps that he would take to change "the trajectory of poverty." More creative educational programs for teens are needed such as the U.C. Scholarship Program that he helped establish for this age group during the summer months. As Mayor, Richardson said he would make it a priority to ensure that the Internet was available to young people in every neighborhood. Two other priorities stressed by Richardson are improving public transit and establishing a City policy of inclusionary zoning. He chided that Cincinnati's bus system was stuck in the 1950s and was completely inadequate for connecting people to jobs located throughout the region. He believes that the Metro Moves Plan that was rejected by the voters more than a decade ago should be reintroduced. Streetvibes is an activist newspaper, advocating justice and building community. Streetvibes reports on economic issues, civil rights, the environment, the peace movement, spirituality and the struggle against homelessness and poverty. Distributed by individuals experiencing homelessness or on the edge of homelessness, in exchange for a $2.00 Donation. Streetvibes is published twice a month by the Greater Cincinnati Coalition for the Homeless (GCCH), a 501(c)3 non-profit organization that works to eradicate homelessness in Cincinnati. 113 East 12th St. Cincinnati OH, 45202 Ph: 513.421.7803 FAX: 513.421.7813 WEB: www.cincihomeless.org BLOG: streetvibes.wordpress.com Contributing Writer EMAIL: streetvibes@cincihomeless.org With the right leadership, he thinks the public would support a regional transit system. Not only does Cincinnati need more affordable housing, noted Richardson, but it needs a policy to prevent the kind of income segregation that characterizes current neighborhood developments. Inclusionary zoning, a policy that has worked well in places like Montgomery County, Maryland, would require every housing development project to include a percentage of affordable housing units. Councilmember Yvette Simpson also emphasized addressing poverty. Starting with the words "Cincinnati needs a visionary leader," she described how her difficult childhood causes her to identify with all the children currently living in poverty. Without a mentor who helped her at a strategic point in her development, she said that she could have ended up as another "statistic" without hope. We must create "villages" full of mentors for these children. Specifically, Simpson stressed improving conditions in struggling neighborhoods. Investment in neighborhood development partnerships is critical; especially local "home grown" businesses that will hire neighborhood residents and care about preserving the character of these areas. Her vision for affordable (Continued on page 12) Editor: Justin Jeffre Executive Director: Josh Spring Director of Development: Leslie Moorhead Director of Education: Dr. Mark Mussman Distributor Program Manager: Justin Jeffre Layout: Key Beck Reception: Derrick Hudson, Iolanda Barton, Patricia J. Brown, Larry Johnson Maintenance: Pete Roper CONTRIBUTORS THIS ISSUE Writers: Josh Spring, Bill Woods, Jim Luken, Dr. Mark Mussman, Robert Park, Karen Elliot, Michael Earl Patton, Former Judge Mark Painter, Steve Sunderland, Sr. Nicole Varnerin, Kim Green, Willa Denise Jones Photography/ Artwork: Alice Schneider, Saad Goshn, Dylan Speeg, Twiiter, Michael Earl Patton, Michael Stucker, Karen Elliot Thank You For Reading Streetvibes And Supporting Our Mission To Build Community And Advocate Justice. Mayoral candidates Yvette Simpson and Rob Richardson address the audience. Credit: Alice Schneider THE VOICE OF THE STREET...UNSILENCED Streetvibes and The Greater Cincinnati Coalition for the Homeless do not endorse candidates for public office. �No. 35 4 LOCAL | A p r i l 2 1 - M a y 4 , 2 0 17 Art Saves Lives JIM LUKEN “T Contributing Writer he supreme art of war is to subdue the world without fighting.” from The Art of War, written 5 centuries BC by military strategist Tsung Tzu. This book is still used in the curricula of some of our “war colleges.” A question follows: If not by fighting, how do we subdue the world? Were you to ask retired Lebanese physician Saad Ghosn, he would enemies. Or at least it can help us to encounter them ...name them...and demystify them...through art. Traditionally art, especially political art, has always functioned as a kind of soothing corrective, a way of understanding the world, and hopefully bettering it, of helping us see that we are not alone. From prehistory, we have the famous cave paintings at Lascaux, where primitive artists encountered their fears, and huge black and white canvas depicts a complex, chilling image of the horrors of war. It seems beyond ironic that this masterpiece underwent a bazaar desecration at the United Nations in 2003. At the entrance to the Security Council, a full sized reproduction was shrouded by a huge blue veil. Why? Because it may have embarrassed Secretary of State Colin Powell as he pleaded for member states to condone the blasphemy that would soon become the 2nd Iraq War. In the aftermath of September 11th (2001), Saad Ghosn—an artist himself—decided to initiate a major exhibition (SOS Art), so that local artists could express their SOS Art Show at the Art Academy Credit: Saad Goshn almost certainly respond: “With art.” Although a full time pathologist until a few years ago, Saad has devoted much of his life to art. And not to just any art, but art that saves lives. Or souls. Or are they the same? This article in Streetvibes bravely depicted them. In the Lysistrata, an ancient Greek play by Aristophanes (411 BC), the main character tries to convince Greek women to refuse to give themselves to their husbands sexually until the men agree to end feelings about that war. He knew the frustration of many of his local artist friends. “We felt, as artists, very isolated,” he says. “You couldn't show your work. So I thought, let's break this isolation. Why don't we create a venue to connect us and to create a The 2016 SOS Art Show Credit: Saad Goshn celebrates the 15th anniversary of the “SOS Art Show,” which Ghosn founded and still coordinates. For him, “SOS” means “Save Our Souls.” Ghosn believes that art, and the liberation that creating and experiencing art brings, can save us from both internal and external the Peloponnesian war. We know that Shakespeare understood the power of art, when he has Hamlet say, “The play's the thing wherein I'll catch the conscience of the King.” No doubt, the world's most famous antiwar painting is Guernica, Picasso’s 12' X 25' (1937) oil. This dialogue between us?'” The first SOS exhibition (summer of 2003) was shown at the Mockbee warehouse on Central Parkway. Its emphasis was on the war in Iraq. But in 2004, Ghosn decided the event should have a larger focus. He encouraged local artists to submit works dealing with a whole range THE VOICE OF THE STREET...UNSILENCED 3 of issues related to peace, justice and human dignity. “It became very global, any aspect that the artist wanted to express. Over the years, the exhibition grew. After four years, it moved to Art Academy on Jackson Street. There was no “jury” to select the artists who were to be included. No entry fee. Basically, if you submitted an application, your work would be shown. Some years ago, Ghosn began calling on teachers in high schools and elementary schools to encourage their students to submit. Saad Chosen explains: “Lately I'm pushing a program here and in Lebanon (his native country) to introduce peace and justice and art to the young. We acquire our values by the age of ten. After that we are set. So art will be linked to the creation of values, like honesty and compassion. Once you acquire your values they stay with you for the rest of your life.” The SOS ART show occupies two entire floors of the Art Academy. This year, it will be open for ten days and evenings, June 2-11, and free to the public as always. Saad Ghosn believes art should be more accessible. “Money doesn't need to change hands for everything.” he says. Ghosn encourages Streetvibes readers to submit a project. Interested? Go to soscincinnati.wordpress.com, then click on the green link: SOS ART 2017 APPLICATION FORM. Who is Saad Ghosn As someone who has known him for years, I still find myself blown away by Saad's level of commitment to this fifteen-year-old passion [SOS] and to the other projects that have grown out of it. He is quite humble about all it, requesting that this article be all about the art show and not about him, a request somewhat impossible to grant. Ghosn conceived that first SOS exhibition, then brought it together. Now, with the help of a few friends, he continues to do the 100 or so installations every year. He takes it down himself, always giving his own time and resources. In addition, each year he produces an 8 ½” X 11” full color “yearbook,” with photos from each exhibit and a short text describing the exhibit. All 100 artists receive a free copy. [I prize my own copy, displaying a record of the installation I did about the theft of the Anna Louise Inn in 2014.] Dr. Ghosn is 66 years old. His name, he says with a smile, can be translated as “Happy Branch.” He went to medical school in his native Lebanon, then lived in Paris for two years before immigrating to Boston, where he lived for ten years before making Cincinnati his permanent home in 1985. He has a master’s degree in public health. For many years he was head of the Pathology Department for the Veteran's Administration hospital. Ghosn says that he did not develop an interest in art when he was young. After he left Lebanon, he began doing (Continued on page 10) �4 LOCAL THE VOICE OF THE STREET...UNSILENCED A p r i l 2 1 - M a y 4 , 2 0 17 | N o . 35 4 �No. 35 4 OPINION The Worst Is Yet To Come | A p r i l 2 1 - M a y 4 , 2 0 17 W alking around Overthe-Rhine this week, I felt as though we, as a country, are such hypocrites, liars, and crooks. On Vine Street, people casually streaming out of the donut and ice cream shops, celebrating spring break. People from the suburbs sauntering down the street with bags of donuts and ice cream cones in hands, trying to lick them before they melt, or at least save the donuts until they get home. Meanwhile, we dropped a historically large bomb on Afghanistan. We launched dozens of missiles into Syria, and continued dropping bombs across the globe. I know there is mass suffering here at home – people being displaced from their long-time homes so that developers can move the rich, or even their families, into the neighborhood. Instead of starting with the 500 abandoned buildings in Over-the-Rhine, they set their sights on the easily flippable DR. MARK MUSSMAN Staff Writer buildings and pushed everyone out of the neighborhood. Coupled with the direct gentrification, we are seeing mass indirect gentrification – with the schools, the laundromats, the post office, the hardware store, friends, and family all pushed out of the neighborhood… all of this contributes to homelessness. And so does war. We are sitting back in our easy chairs having debates of whether we should take asylum-seekers and refugees because they may be dangerous – when we are the largest producers of war in the world. We produce the most ammunitions, machines or war, the ships, and of course, the missiles. We’ll sell to both sides of a conflict. Our wealth in this country is so connected with war that we put the majority of our budgets into war – including locally. We spend more on the police than anything else – yet homicides increase and the streets remain dangerous. Why is this? Are we in complete denial? Possibly. We need to start changing our perspective and learn how to stand behind our stated values – freedom, happiness, prosperity. Currently, we are quick to blame victims of the system and act like they have some change. When I hear talk about homelessness (which is necessary), I see how off-base people tend to be regarding solutions. When students decide that a barrier to being housed is transportation, because you know, “they can’t get to their job” it makes me realize that there is a serious barrier to understanding systematic causes and the symptoms of homelessness. We don’t have a livable wage, so you can work day and night and still not be able to afford a two-bedroom apartment. You can save up all your money, and still not be able to pay your bills and feed your family. Yet, we’ll be quick to villianize someone who uses alcohol to numb their pain, yet think it’s totally ok for someone to go home after work and crack The science marchers are coming ROBERT PARK Contributing Writer T he science people are marching. The Trump people are frowning and ridiculing. The Trump person will be tweeting encouragement, making use of lots of good material, especially the white lab coats. Science is about evidence, critical observation and interpretation. It is a discipline that all cultures have developed in the course of studying the seasons (stars), training animals, growing crops, using fire, making things. Over centuries and millennia, this was the basis for the knowledge that today underpins all technology, agriculture and modern health. Science has always been political. It is promoted and defined by someone’s goals, interests, vision and agenda. It can be used for bad purposes. War has been a strong engine for scientific discovery. Private profit not always in the public interest has been another. False theories were invented to justify racism and even slavery, the subjugation of other tribes, of women, and the destruction of the natural world. In setting public policy in modern societies, conflicting views on scientific evidence are often expressed; they may be honest differences but they can’t all be right. We have civilized ways for accommodating disagreements on science but it’s important to understand the political agendas often behind these disagreements. In America today many citizens perceive that science hasn’t been working for them. There is considerable truth to this. Expensive, highly profitable drugs for treatment of disease receive most research funds, instead of research for prevention. Food technology produces everincreasing mountains of junk food in plastic, fueling epidemics of diabetes and cancer. Innovation, technology “start-ups” and automation with high-tech sensors and algorithms are deployed to reduce costs, i.e., eliminate jobs. The era of continuous war is now highly technologydependent, all the products of basic science, absorbing huge quantities of our national wealth while our basic infrastructure crumbles. Probably most important, theories on climate change are seen by many of our citizens as promising to destroy jobs and livelihoods, without creating a national program to replace them (energy conservation, sustainable agriculture, water management, etc.). It’s a bonanza for corrupt politicians: blame “fake” science rather than going after the fossil fuel industry or fixing expensive looming problems. For many citizens, blaming science makes more sense in the fog of public media than the complex politics behind corporate economics. Public health is a vital requirement for any society. It takes many forms of government activity. In Erlanger KY recently, a food processing factory was shut down by the U.S Food and Drug Administration (FDA) after an outbreak of E. coli disease from its product produced 24 (known) potentially fatal cases around the The Archdiocese of Cincinnati’s Controversial Contract KAREN ELLIOT I 5 n 2013, Mike Moroski was let go from his administrative position at Purcell Marian High School because he published a personal blog post supporting gay Contributing Writer marriage. In that January 27th blog post (which is still online, though the website MikeMoroski.com has now been formatted for his Cincinnati School Board campaign), Moroski wrote the following: I unabashedly believe that gay people SHOULD be allowed to marry. Ethically, morally and legally I believe this. I spend a lot of my life trying to THE VOICE OF THE STREET...UNSILENCED open a beer every night – in fact you are rewarded when you go to Happy Hours and other work-related activities. It’s a double standard. Without a conscious, we drop bombs on brown and black communities across the globe. Afghanistan is still one of the most impoverished countries in the world. The bombs we drop are probably valued more than the entire country’s GNP. I don’t know the numbers (and many aren’t recorded because of the drug trade), but I can almost guarantee it. What do you think is the connection between the poppy fields in Afghanistan and the heroin crisis? How do those drugs get here? I didn’t think it would be right to let this time of war go by without writing something about it. I can’t speak for everyone, but I hope that we know that with every bomb we drop, we create more enemies. One day, perhaps in the near future, we will be asked to be responsible for what we’ve done. Until then, we’ll exploit war for ratings. When we believe more is better, rather than fair is better, we enforce racist power structures, and give them value. We much change our entire perspective to bring about peace. country. At one point the owners of this plant denied FDA inspectors entry, a dramatic example of bad attitude toward science. The work place is another arena for public health. Past science figured out how bad asbestos was and how to get rid of it. Last year rules to protect workers from silica dust were finally updated by the government agency OSHA based on extensive scientific investigations. Many construction workers are exposed to silica when cutting stone, mineral-containing materials or pavement, threatening their future health and in some cases their lives. Now the federal government is trying to reverse these rules claiming “bad” science and “over-regulation.” Many severe challenges are coming, not just flooding or desertification or the collapse of agriculture. We need to figure out what’s up, who shares our core interests (almost everyone) and talk to them. We must make sure science is used in the public interest to deal with our future. The science marchers need to tell the truth about science, not just show-off their wares, their smarts and their toys. ------------------------ live as a Christian example of love for others, and my formation at Catholic grade school, high school, 3 Catholic Universities and employment at 2 Catholic high schools has informed my conscience to believe that gay marriage is NOT something of which to be afraid. According to a Fox19 story at the time, "the Archdiocese of Cincinnati gave him an ultimatum - resign, or keep his job at Purcell Marian (Continued on page 11) �6 LOCAL THE VOICE OF THE STREET...UNSILENCED A p r i l 2 1 - M a y 4 , 2 0 17 | N o . 35 4 �LOCAL What's really going on in Syria? No. 35 4 7 | A p r i l 2 1 - M a y 4 , 2 0 17 JIM LUKEN "O nce you eliminate the impossible, whatever remains, no matter how improbable, must be the truth." --Sherlock Holmes Until very recently, I have been a regular “contributing” writer of articles for this amazing little paper. I wrote pieces on all manner of events and topics. I wrote most of my articles knowing that—although this was a street newspaper—my audience consisted primarily of middle class, even rich, suburbanites, who cared about the downtown poor. I tried to write in a semi-sophisticated style that would appeal to that readership This time, I am going to attempt the opposite. My goal is to simplify my writing style so that a sixth grader could understand it. In a sense, I will condescend to you wonderful suburbanites who buy Streetvibes from our wonderful distributors. Why? Because the topic is both critical, and very complicated. My article will deal with what could be a considered a kind of CONSPIRACY THEORY. Years ago, I wrote a series of articles (6) about a variety of topics, each one involving a conspiracy: an alternative reality to the one we are force fed by the politicians and the corporate media. I wrote about the JFK (and the MLK) assassination. I wrote about our water being arbitrarily contaminated with fluoride. In the final installments, I argued that what happened on 9/11/2001 had been an “inside job,” perpetrated by our own government in order make “We The People” support an unending series of wars in the Middle East and beyond. The events of 9/11 have led directly to the Afghan war, the Iraq war, the Libyan war, and now to the to the hellish mess that is happening in Syria, including our latest (illegal) missile attacks on that country. My belief is that behind these recent event lies a conspiracy, maybe several of them. I understand that my attempt to simplify the war in Syria will do the situation something of an injustice, but—hopefully—it will give the reader a different framework as he or she watches the situation in Syria continue to unfold. Background In the effort to keep it simple, let’s do this with bullet points: • After 9/11, the Bush administration came up with what has been named “The Bush Doctrine” of foreign policy. This “doctrine” stated that the US now claimed the right to intervene in any situation, anywhere, when we perceived that our national interests were at stake. • So... we invaded Afghanistan, then Iraq (although almost all of Contributing Writers hijackers came from Saudi Arabia and Egypt). • The illegal Iraq war, still going on, laid waste to a country that had been the most socially progressive (and middle class) of all Mid East countries, a country that had nothing to do with 9/11. • We also bombed Libya into chaos. We continue to bomb here, there and everywhere (using drones). Now we have bombed Syria with 59 missiles (each costing us $1.4 million). • Our foreign policy has often centered around character assassination: The Ayatollah (Iran), Gaddafi (Libya), Hussein (Iraq), and now Assad in Syria. Bad dudes all, but the US has a long, disgusting history of supporting many other really bad dudes. • The “blowback” from these (illegal under US law) wars of aggression spawned Al Queda in Iraq, and dozens (hundreds) of Madrasas (schools) where angry young Muslims were trained as terrorists, “hating us death in 2000. The Assad’s and many followers practice Alawi, a moderate form of Shia Islam. Most Syrians are Sunni Muslims. In 2010, youthful civil unrest erupted following the “Arab Springs” in Egypt and Tunisia. This had to do with discontent over Bashar's failure to deliver on promised reforms. It was not religiously inspired. • In mid-2011, government forces apparently fired on some of these protesters. The anti-Assad movement grew. A makeshift opposition army (the FSA) came together, loosely joined by local armed militias hoping to overthrow the Assad regime. At this point, religion still did not play a major role in the dispute. But he US and other internationals were quick to demand regime change. We wanted Assad out, mostly because of his ties to Russia and Iran. These ties still bind. • As time passed, the secular opposition groups were joined by many outside groups (mostly Iraqi and mostly Islamists) many of them what's unlikely can quickly become probable. Bottom line: no one in the new administration has any idea how to resolve this horrible mess. • Background: Russia has been a close ally of Syria for many years. In 2013 (as now), Assad was accused of using chemical weapons in a suburb of the capitol, Damascus. Obama considered responding with a military strike. Trump (a friend of Putin?) warned him repeatedly (using Tweets) against such an intervention. • Indeed, Obama decided not to act. Republicans went batsh*t crazy. By now we know with some certainty that those chemicals had not been deployed by Assad. So Obama, and Trump, were right. • As late as March 30 of this year, Trump and his surrogates made it clear that we’re no longer committed to getting rid of Assad (regime change), instead they felt we should focus on fighting and killing off ISIS. • Syrian opposition figures vehemently decried the Trump administration's change of position regarding regime change. • Then: Lightning strikes again. Just four days later, on April 4, images come out of Syria indicating that chemicals had once again been released, this time in the town of Khan President Donald Trump's tweet before he was POTUS Credit: Twitter for our freedoms,” according to “W” Bush. These chickens, sometimes wearing suicide vests, continue to come home to roost. • 17 years later, we have ISIS and Isil and too many Muslim enemies to count. The number is growing. • Hundreds of these groups and organizations are fighting against, or with, the Assad regime in Syria. The War in Syria Once again, let's use bullet points to emphasize the main aspects of a very complicated political, cultural, and religious situation. • Syria is about the size of Washington state with 22 million people, minus the estimated ¼ of a million dead, minus the three million refugees abroad, and including the 6 million civilians displaced (internally) by this the deadliest war of the new century. • The Assad family has been in power since 1970, with Bashar, the son, taking over after his father's intent on turning Syria into a caliphate [a unified, fundamentalist Islamic State.] Several of these are very well known: Isil or ISIS (the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria) and the Al Nusra Front (an Al Qaeda sect). • By now there are dozens of mostly religious factions, and subgroups fighting against the Assad government. But they are also fighting viciously among themselves. In its hopes of getting rid of Assad, The US has foolishly supplied weapons to ISIS and other “enemy” groups of terrorists in Syria. • Perhaps the most pertinent reality is that there are no good guys. Or, those who had been good guys are compromised to the point where even some US conservatives believe that it would be better for Assad to remain in charge. WWTD (What Would Trump Do)? Now the game gets (more) interesting...because it involves US. This recent intervention could lead to a war with Trump's favorite country: Russia. Unlikely, but with Trump, THE VOICE OF THE STREET...UNSILENCED Sheikoun, an Al Queda stronghold. • Trump, watching television, sees images of gassed children and his heart (so he tells us) bleeds for them. He immediately accuses the Assad government of “having crossed a red line.” • Without waiting for his national security team to investigate the legitimacy of the claims (coming from Al Qaeda affiliates), Trump impetuously orders the strike. • But not before he lets his pals in Russia know that he is going to shoot missiles at one of Syria's military airfields where the Russians have a bunch of fighter jets and personnel. By warning them, is he colluding with the enemy? Really! You can't make this stuff up. • By the time the 59 missiles rain down, most Syrian planes and personnel have been cleared out, along with the Russians, of course. Aerial photographs show the runways are fully intact. Syria is (Continued on page 12) �8 T LOCAL Bankrupting the Enemy: The U.S. Financial Siege of Japan before Pearl Harbor he official story of the Japanese attack on December 7, 1941 against our fleet at Pearl Harbor is clear. The United States was a neutral power and was staying out of the conflicts in Europe and Asia. We had no reason to suspect that we would be attacked, which was a complete surprise because the Japanese fleet had approached Hawaii while under complete radio silence. The United States had refused to sell Japan scrap metal and aviation gasoline, but those were materials used primarily for their war machine which was invading China. Japan had struck the first blow without any provocation by the United States. That is what I was taught. Only recently did I find out that the background was not that one-sided. Japan did strike the first military blow, but the United States was waging a full scale economic war against Japan in the months before Pearl Harbor. I recently read the book Bankrupting the Enemy: The U.S. Financial Siege of Japan before Pearl Harbor by Edward S. Miller. It describes how the Roosevelt administration was applying economic pressure – first mild, and then increasingly tightened -- on Japan in reaction to its invasion of China in the 1930’s. Finally, on Friday, 25 July 1941, Roosevelt announced that he was freezing all Japanese assets in the United States and regulating all trade between the United States and Japan to prevent harm to our national interests. In effect, this virtually halted all trade with Japan. The example of oil is illustrative. Oil shipments to Japan were halted on the rationale that the oil was needed in the United States. But it wasn’t. Oil shipped to Japan came from California, which had a surplus. One may have wanted to ship it to the East Coast or overseas to Britain, but there weren’t enough tankers to do so. No pipeline went more than 70 miles from the Pacific coast and there were not enough railroad tank cars, which would have been hugely expensive in any event. But there was no shortage on the East Coast so there was no need to divert the oil that had been exported to Japan. Shortages did develop in northern California because the tankers used to haul the oil there were requisitioned to haul oil for Britain and the Soviet Union. Japan had enough tankers, but was not allowed to fill them with American oil. As a consequence, California oil producers had to reduce production because they had no place to put it. Everything was embargoed, both going to and coming from Japan. The United States refused to buy silk from Japan, which was their major cash-earning export. (Before nylon, which was just coming into its own A p r i l 2 1 - M a y 4 , 2 0 17 | N o . 35 4 MICHAEL EARL PATTON Contributing Writer Book Credit: Michael Earl Patton in 1941, fashion-conscious women wore silk stockings.) The export of fertilizers was stopped with the express objective of reducing the amount of food available to feed the Japanese population. The theory was that a hungry population would force the military-dominated government South America was, at the time, not strong enough economically to make up for the United States. The choice then was either to retreat or to advance and expand, seizing areas that could supply the materials they wanted. After making several requests to loosen the embargo and Anti-Yen symbol Credit: Michael Earl Patton to stop its invasion of China and withdraw its troops. It didn’t work. In fact, freezing the accounts and blocking exports and imports seems to have strengthened the position of the Japanese military who wanted to pursue a more aggressive stance. There were no other trading partners who could fill the role that the United States had. Europe, including Russia, was engaged in World War II and had no goods that could be spared. even proposing to use barter instead of financial transactions, but being refused or put off, Japan chose to attack. Roosevelt’s authority to seize Japanese funds and embargo goods came from the Trading with the Enemy Act, passed in 1917 during World War I. It gave the president broad powers to regulate trade and financial transactions during a declared war. When Roosevelt THE VOICE OF THE STREET...UNSILENCED came to office in 1933 in the middle of the Great Depression, he asked Congress to amend the Act so that he would have the authority to also regulate financial transactions during a national emergency. The intent was to bring order to the economic chaos, including regulating banks and banning the private ownership of gold. Roosevelt declared a national emergency and began using his new powers. To use this power against Japan, Roosevelt declared an unlimited national emergency, which he described to the public in one of his “fireside chats” on May 27, 1941. To me it is amazing that the president had so much power that he, on his own, could cripple the economy of a nation without any input from Congress and with whom we were not at war. In a note the author explains that this portion of the Trading with the Enemy Act, which allowed the president to impose economic sanctions without approval from Congress, was finally changed in 1976 following the Watergate scandal. The note explains further that much of that power lives on in the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA), passed in 1977. President Carter had pleaded for its survival so that the president could act quickly and sweepingly in case of an emergency. These powers under the IEEPA had been used over 50 times through 2005. The book was copyrighted in 2007 – the current total is doubtlessly more. Although not part of the book, this finally explained to me why the news always report economic sanctions (for example, against Iran) can be imposed or lifted by the president. The book Bankrupting the Enemy does not consider the question of whether President Roosevelt knew or intended to provoke the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor. I think there is strong evidence that way, but that is not the point of this book or of my article. I think it does, however, prompt the question as to why, once total economic war had been started against Japan, that we were not better prepared militarily. Couldn’t anyone see the possibility that economic conflict, including the freezing of virtually all financial assets, might led to a military conflict? Congress has given the president extremely strong powers to hurt other countries economically, power that was reduced only somewhat in the 1970’s. I do not think this is wise. One person with such power can create chaos far easier than it can be undone. And no, this comment was not aimed at any one person in particular. Just consider those who have been president over the past 40 years and ask yourself if you agree that every one of them should have or (Continued on page 10) �NATIONAL Last Week this Week No. 35 4 | A p r i l 2 1 - M a y 4 , 2 0 17 MARK PAINTER “T Contributing Writer here's no trick to being a humorist when you have the whole government working for you.” -Will Rogers Life in the Small City Last month, I spent a week in Marietta, Ohio, a charming small city 200 miles upriver. It’s the home of Marietta College and has a historic downtown. The trip was not for pleasure, as I was the arbitrator on a case there. At breakfast one morning, I perused the local paper. You sure can’t get away with anything in a small town. All the police reports are printed in the paper. Just a few samples. Cool heads prevail in Coolville Zachary K. Gerken, of Coolville, reported March 31 a theft from Franklin Fire, 158 Warner St. He said he had left a transmission on the ground by a scrap barrel. A regular customer stopped by and picked the scrap metal up and also picked up his transmission. The customer then took the transmission to the scrap yard. The complainant called the customer who then checked with the scrap yard but the transmission had already been disposed of. An officer contacted the customer and both parties agreed to work it out between themselves. Paging Inspector Javert Jenny L. Robinson, of 836 Fourth St., Marietta, reported a burglary April 4. Upon arrival an officer found that the door was kicked in and a loaf of bread was missing. This case is still under investigation. Wearing the hat backwards should be a crime An officer was dispatched April 5 to the area in front of the armory for a report of a white male with a ball cap on backwards asking people if they wanted to buy a watch. It was also reported that he had luggage sitting on the park bench. Upon arrival, no one was around. Officers searched the area and were unable to locate anyone matching that description. The luggage was taken. A warrant for what? As an officer was on patrol Sunday on Marion Street approaching Third Street two people were witnessed walking by the Morgan Chiropractic building. The male subject was identified as Dakota Hines and as he was walking away he dropped a billy club on the ground. Hines was ordered to stop and leave the weapon on the ground. He immediately picked up the weapon and fled on foot. A warrant has been requested. Was it even hers? Misty D. Griffin, of 308 Harmar St., reported Sunday that sometime overnight an unknown suspect threw Tax Rally for Economic Justice O JUSTIN JEFFRE Editor & Staff Writer n a bright and sunny Saturday afternoon on April 15th hundreds of Cincinnatians gathered on Fountain Square in solidarity with about 120 other rallies across the country to - among other things - call for President Donald Trump to release his tax records and for economic justice. The lively crowd was filled with signs and enthusiastic people. The enthusiasm was so strong that the rally actually began before it was scheduled to. There was a long list of passionate speakers talking about a wide range of topics. One thing they all shared was a relation to the causes of economic injustice. Josh Spring, the Executive Director of the Greater Cincinnati Homeless Coalition spoke about the housing crisis. According to a recent housing study Hamilton County is short about 40,000 units of affordable housing. He talked about how the city alone had invested about a billion dollars in market rate housing which has displaced people and caused homelessness to grow. He called for a housing trust fund and new public polices at the city and county level to address the growing need for affordable housing. Michelle Dillingham, the CEO of Community Shares, spoke about how we have increasingly been seeing an increase in women and children in poverty. She said that our community has enough resources to address these issues, but we need the political will at City Hall and the County level. Dillingham is a council candidate. (The Greater Cincinnati Homeless Coalition does not endorse political candidates.) There was a surprise speaker as well. The Donald himself, actually it was longtime Streetvibes contributor Jim Luken, donning a suit and a Donald Trump mask. This incredible Trump impersonator told the crowd what a bunch of losers they were, how small and pathetic their little rally was, and how they shouldn’t resist his administration and the Republican party’s agenda. Following Trump’s performance came Rob Linneman, a civil rights attorney, as well as Judge Fanon Rucker. They both discussed the 9 eggs at an SUV there. No one noticed before? On Wednesday, a motorist alerted the sheriff’s office to a home at 1220 McGrath Road, Macksburg, that had burned to the ground within the past day. This case remains under investigation. Another fire Deputies along with the Little Hocking Volunteer Fire Department responded to 6000-B State Route 555 on Monday to a fire in a yard. This fire was detected upon a homeowner returning home. It appears this may have been caused by someone throwing out a cigarette. This case remains under investigation. Epidemic of fires On Thursday, a deputy along with the Fearing Volunteer Fire Department responded to 290 Hartline Road, Marietta, in reference to Leander Farnsworth, of 12834 State Route 339, Vincent, having a vehicle at that location on fire. The fire was quickly extinguished with the vehicle passenger compartment being a total loss. Please don’t argue over the remote, because you’ll spill the beer On Saturday, deputies were dispatched to 12170 State Route, Lowell, in reference to a domestic violence incident. Sylvia J. Severt, 40, said she and her husband Shane were intoxicated and got into an argument. Shane said during the argument his wife attempted to take the remote control from Shane at which time she knocked the beer from his hand. Sylvia Severt was placed under arrest for domestic violence and transported to the Washington County Jail. At the jail, Sylvia tested .256 percent BAC on the portable breathalyzer test. A three-course meal stolen On 1 Apr 17 Sgt. Mankins met with Felicia Dawn Wallace at the Washington County Jail. The Lowell Duke and Duchess Shop, Lowell, reported a theft from the business in which Deputies along with the Lowell Police Department were able to identify the individual in the video as Felicia Wallace. Wallace admitted to stealing 3 Hostess Danish cakes. It was further determined that Wallace had also stolen a bottle of Mountain Dew, a bottle of Dr. Pepper and a candy bar, as well as a pair of shoes from the Lowell Dollar General. Charges of theft were filed on Wallace, age 26, 100 Water Street, Lowell, through Marietta Municipal Court. Possibly disorderly? Tune in next week A deputy responded to Newport Township on Wednesday in reference to subjects conducting themselves possibly in a disorderly fashion. This case remains under investigation. That, friends, is life in the small city. I’m sure we have the same, it’s just not published daily. Cincinnati native Mark Painter served as a judge for 30 years (Municipal Court 1982–1995, Court of Appeals 1995–2009, United Nations Appellate Tribunal 2009–2012), and as an adjunct law professor at UC for 20 years. He is the author of six books. injustices in our criminal justice system from mass incarceration, private prisons, unfair sentencing and enforcement, and the impact it has had on the poor, particularly the black community. They talked about how these policies drain massive amounts of our community and nation’s resources and perpetuate poverty and inequality. Rucker reminded the crowd with a chant throughout his speech that ‘We the People’ have the power to change these things and that’s the way it has always been. Alonzo Leggett and Diedrich Jones from the Cliftones performed several songs with a guest drummer. Native American activist Jeri Neri then took to the stage and spoke about environmental justice. Neri is a water protector. He spoke about the No Dapl stand against the Dakota Access Pipeline and ongoing efforts to stop our water ways from being polluted as well as the need to respect native American treaties and rights. Brain Garry, a city council candidate and activist, spoke about how all the different issues were intertwined and urged the crowd to renew their commitment to fight for justice. Garry’s speech was interrupted by loud commercials from 3CDC’s jumbo-tron, an unfriendly reminder of the corporate control of Fountain Square as well as other public spaces and resources increasingly. Garry carried on despite the rude and unnecessary interruption. Attendees seem to be energized by the rally. The event was organized by Billie Mays, Kate Gallion and others with the United We Stand movement. To find out more go to: https://www.facebook.com/groups/ unitedwestandcincy/ [Editor’s note: The Greater Cincinnati Homeless Coalition does not endorse political candidates.] THE VOICE OF THE STREET...UNSILENCED �10 LOCAL has heard and backed off a sad and destructive bill to replace the Affordable Care Act. But Trump is not finished: choking the ACA to death can happen through arbitrary and undiscussed rule changes. Simultaneous with the attack on the poor, are efforts to widen access to healthcare for everyone. Physician groups, Hospital Groups, and Citizen Groups are joining together to both resist major changes and to rethink just how the healthcare system can be improved for those at highest risk. It is hoped that this effort will continue despite the new rules and the old attitude that healthcare cannot be a right for everyone. In Cincinnati, the Cancer Justice Network, an organization of 25 agencies that serve the poor in the city and Hamilton County, have come together to step up the healthcare services to the poor. Using a new health role, "navigators," the Cancer Justice Network is going to churches, community centers, and schools where poor people and their families attend. Our goal is singular: we want everyone who is concerned that they may have cancer to get a screening and a timely treatment. Thanks to far-looking grants from Easter Seals and the National Aging and Disability Transportation Center, Molina Insurance, Christ Church Cathedral, Congregation of St. Joseph, Academy of Medicine, and the Woodward Trust, we are creating a transportation process that "navigates" any low income citizen, aged person, or person with disabilities, to and from cancer prevention healthcare. Normally, the high risk population we are working with has too many transportation obstacles to get to either a screening and or regular treatments. Not being knowledgeable about insurance provisions for transportation or Medicaid stipulations, the person with cancer may give up and choose to use their limited funds for housing, or food, or some recreation for their children. Removing transportation hurdles, accompanying the person to and from their health provider, starts a process that could lead to overcoming cancer in our community. The process can break down at any time if there is an emergency in the person's life or if they are unsure what to do when they have an urgent medical need. Often people do not have a doctor, do not know how to access the Emergency Room, and sadly have had experiences of being humiliated by healthcare professionals. Our navigators are offering a different kind of relationship: we will go with the person and make sure that the healthcare is outstanding and we will help people negotiate the maze of cancer care and of the local transportation systems. When we have shared this opportunity with people at church meetings or in community centers, we are often met with disbelief: "Why would you do this for me? What do you get out of helping me?" Suspicions connected to prior experiences tend to dominate even when we have face to face meetings with kind and down to earth physicians. Yet, every time we find courageous people who are willing to risk a first step with our navigators, although many people have a change of mind. The power of the anti-poor culture can win out and persuade people that what we are sharing may be a scam. "Who helps the poor?," they seem to say with their behavior of missing appointments. We know that our process of helping will be a slow one but we are basing our work on the pioneering efforts of Harold Freeman, MD. Freeman, facing high death rates from his patients who came too late for treatment, created a program of community navigators that could bring people to him much sooner in their cancer. In five years, Freeman's program reversed the death statistics: most people survived their cancer. We are following this program in Cincinnati because minorities have the highest death rate from cancer in Ohio. The Cancer Justice Network is the only program that navigates high risk populations to and from healthcare while empowering people to take more control over their healthcare. Largely made up of volunteers, we attend church dinners, meetings at community centers, and programs where the poor come for help. Our navigators are saying that there are more choices for life than death if we seize the chance to get an exam and treatment. We know we have a difficult job to convince people who have been excluded from healthcare, stigmatized by the media, and now facing certain cuts in their essential healthcare. We are determined to make progress by taking time with people, listening to their fears, and, with navigators, going the extra mile to compassionate healthcare. This is what we mean by justice for everyone. Please go to our website for more information: cancerjusticenetwork.org “We cannot judge people,” he says, “because we do not know what bed a person grew up in. The values George Bush got were different from the values I got.” Other Projects According to Ghosn, more than 1500 individuals (or collaboratives) have exhibited at the SOS Show. In addition, 500-600 local poets have participated in another of his undertakings. This would be a yearly book of social justice oriented poems, entitled For a Better World. Poets submit their work, and Ghosn engages local artists to create black and white illustrations for some of them. Expected this December is yet another collection of writing and drawings, these by death row inmates from around the country (there are some 4,000 of them). Ghosn plans on exhibiting this work and taking it on a tour of states (like Ohio) where executions still occur. Engaging young people remains primary for Saad Ghosn. He is working to introduce his “values” oriented art project in elementary schools throughout the city (and in Lebanon). The art teacher would name a particular value, like compassion, and the children would be encouraged to find and create different depictions of that value. Ghosn helped produce an SOS exhibition in Lebanon in 2016, which was very positively received. There will be a second one in 2018. Most recently, SOS Art has become something of a different animal. Ghosn has taken the project through the painstaking process (5013C) involved in making it a legal non-profit entity. This new designation requires a board of directors and a significant amount of outside funding. Ghosn wants to make sure that there will be an SOS presence when he can no longer spearhead it. He regrets that he has so little skill in raising money or writing grants. He is looking for help. Another of Saad Ghosn's woodcuts is called “The Fate of the Meek.” It depicts a dense flock of sheep faces surrounded by spear points. In a way, this is where we find ourselves as social justice artists and advocates. “So you don't succeed the way society wants,” he reflects. “At least you didn't become a wolf.” “I'm not trying to convince anyone of anything,” he concludes. “You create art for yourself, but when it goes out it affects others.” than 1% are of that opinion. I do blame the mainstream media for not doing any real reporting about this power or how it came about. This book first came out about 10 years ago. It is published by the Naval Institute Press in Annapolis, Maryland; not self-published by some vanity press. The book is well-researched and written. I recommend it to anyone who is interested in the history of the run-up to World War II. personal blog." Moroski refused, and lost his job. Flash-forward to the next school year, and the Archdiocese made national news again with its new and controversial contract. According to a May 10, 2014 item in the New York Times: Teachers in Catholic schools have long been forced to accept a vague morals clause telling them that they shouldn’t contradict Catholic doctrine. But teachers in Catholic JUSTICE DENIED, SOCIETY THREATENED "W STEVE SUNDERLAND Contributing Writer here justice is denied, where poverty is enforced, where ignorance prevails, and where one class is made to feel that society is an organized conspiracy to oppress, rob, and degrade them, neither persons nor property will be safe."--Frederick Douglass The attack on the poor's healthcare continues with new cuts in Medicaid insurance ordered by the Secretary of Health and Human Services. Poor people, just now awakening to the realization that healthcare can improve their lives and the lives of their families, will be deterred from getting critical insurance. Bombing healthcare provisions has the same effect as bombing people and buildings: people will unnecessarily die, suffer, and be frightened about their future. Citizens at many town hall meetings, largely middle class people, are outraged at their Congressional representative's attempt to explain why less benefits, fewer choices of physicians and hospitals, and the abolition of prevention results in "better care." The American poor are being joined by the American Middle Class in protesting changes in healthcare that are ridiculous for any person who wants to feel secure about their health. Protests have been the order of the day, whether at local, state or national rallies. The Congress JIM LUKEN (Continued from page 3) simple drawings. By now he is an accomplished (although untrained) artist, something of a “primitivist.” He is always among those who display their work at the SOS exhibition. His three dimensional “constructions” often evince the kind of complexity and patience that make one want to view them from all angles. Asked to describe himself in a few words, he responded, “I don't play games. I suppose I could say that I am authentic, simple, compassionate. The most important thing for me is to be in touch with myself.” Saad Ghosn illustrates another aspect of his personality by showing me one of his woodcut prints entitled, “Bed of Comfort/Bed of Nails.” It depicts those two beds, side by side. MICHAEL EARL PATTON (Continued from page 8) have had that power. I doubt if more KAREN ELLIOT (Continued from page 5) until June by signing a document recanting statements made on his A p r i l 2 1 - M a y 4 , 2 0 17 | N o . 35 4 THE VOICE OF THE STREET...UNSILENCED (Continued on page 10) �No. 35 4 WORLD | A p r i l 2 1 - M a y 4 , 2 0 17 Border Stories: Thread of Hope “W SR. NICOLE VARNERIN Contributing Writer e are seeing people work together in ways they never have before.” The sentence rang out through the auditorium and hope got caught in my throat. After a month and a half of living on the border I have been confronted with the tangible fear of deportation and stories of separated families. It is easy to blame it all on our new administration since my arrival in Texas roughly coincided with the inauguration. But this man, a community organizer around immigrant rights, voiced his hope toward the end of a two-day Human Trafficking Conference where we heard account after account of violence, injustice, and humanitarian crisis. He cited case after case of new initiatives, communities working together to protect others, and people empowered to stand up for their rights. As I thought back over the conference, I saw those stories too. Did we hear about the US’s terrible involvement in the Salvadoran and Guatemalan wars and governmental injustices? Yes. Did we hear about human rights infractions of these people who flee the situation the US created? Yes. Did we hear about the terrible conditions of farmworkers? KAREN ELLIOT (Continued from page 10) schools in the Cincinnati archdiocese are being given a longer, more explicit litany of words and deeds that could get them fired. The new contract expressly forbids a “homosexual lifestyle” and any “public support” of one. But it says nothing about public support of the death penalty, something else that the church opposes. Though many teachers refused to sign this contract, one local teacher - again from Purcell Marian High School - made news when he was fired for refusing to sign, after a stunning 45 years at the school. Also from the New York Times: The new contract is six pages and offends him in its suggestion that he must, for example, not express support for gay people in his life. Before it was distributed, [Richard] Hague, 66, planned to teach for another five years. Now he doesn’t, and explained in a letter to the archdiocese: “I simply cannot believe that Jesus would require me to condemn my friends.” Against this backdrop, it would seem rather clear that employees of Purcell Marian High School (and any Archdiocesan school) cannot express "public support" of a "homosexual lifestyle." But that's just what Purcell 11 Certainly. But in each talk was a thread of hope. The two stories that stuck with me most were told by Jennifer Harbury and Lucas Benitez. Jennifer Harbury is a middle aged widow who works tirelessly as an immigration and human rights lawyer. Her husband was tortured and killed by the Guatemalan Government. He was a rebel against militaristic government the US helped put in power after a democratically elected leader was overthrown in a coup. This corrupt Guatemalan government was financially and politically backed by the US. Their “death squads” who reigned with terror across the country were trained at “The School of the Americas” by US soldiers. Suddenly, Jennifer’s husband disappeared. She was told he died, but could not be sure. In reality he was being tortured by the Guatemalan Government at the orders of the FBI. Eventually he was killed, dismembered, and his remains scattered so Jennifer could not have a proper burial for him. For many years, Jennifer fought in court to have the files pertaining to her husband’s case declassified. She succeeded and the FBI was implicated in the involvement of her husband’s death. She still fights though. She fights for the rights of asylees from Guatemala. She fights for all files to Marian did in a recent newsletter sent to alumni. In the picture accompanying this article, you can see an excerpt from their recent newsletter - with names and faces redacted for privacy. Two women, one of whom graduated from the school, got married, and the newsletter's author congratulated them. That sounds like "public support" of a "homosexual lifestyle." Here's how Dan Andriacco, Communications Director for the Archdiocese, responded when this was brought to his attention: Thanks for calling this to our attention. The provisions of the teacher-minister contract and the principal-minister contract that you refer to are still in place. With regard to the newsletter article you cite, Purcell-Marian [sic] officials have acknowledged that they made an oversight in the rush to meet a publication deadline. They support the moral teachings of the Catholic Church. It's one thing to claim that Purcell Marian officials "support the moral teachings of the Catholic Church," but what about making public acknowledgements of the mistake just like the Archdiocese asked Mike Moroski to do after his support of gay marriage? "I don’t think anything along those lines has been decided," be declassified so the FBI and the US can climb out of the shadows pertaining to their involvement in the humanitarian disasters of Central America. Strength seeps from her pores and passion for truth and justice is tangible. Lucas Benitez works on tomato responsibility.” The fair food program uses a set of rules written by the workers themselves and compels the growers to abide by them by getting large companies to only buy from participating growers. Companies who abide by the program also agree to pay one cent more per pound farms in Florida and is the co-founder of the Coalition of Immokalee Workers. Their fair food program works to fight for workers’ rights comprehensively. He was tired of big companies putting off talking to the Coalition about social responsibility. They would say “we already have a social responsibility clause. We don’t need to change anything.” But he was still seeing women being sexually assaulted in the fields, workers being held against their will, and unsafe working conditions without water breaks. The companies were trying to tell the workers what they needed, but Lucas says, “social responsibility without the farmworker is not social of tomatoes which goes directly to the farm workers as a bonus. The program only works if the companies buy in and over a dozen of the largest tomato buyers signed the agreement. Lucas had passion and truly believed that real power comes from the bottom up. Lucas and Jennifer, plus the many others I have met fighting for justice here on the border ignite a fire in me to fight alongside them. I think back to those fighting for justice in Cincinnati and know that it is just as important. Keep up the good fight. Stay strong, remember the stories of success, but stay in touch with the hurt. Wedding Announcement Credit: Karen Elliot explained Andriacco. "The principal is out of the country right now." So, will the school be required to print a correction and/or a retraction? THE VOICE OF THE STREET...UNSILENCED "That’s not been decided and there’s no deadline for doing so," concluded Andriacco. "I’m sorry I can’t be more helpful..." �12 LOCAL A p r i l 2 1 - M a y 4 , 2 0 17 | N o . 35 4 For tickets please call (513) 381-2273 Purchase tickets online at www.cincyshakes.com AD Donated by Mark and Sue Ann Painter season sponsored by the Otto M. Budig Family Foundation JIM LUKEN (Continued from page 7) flying bombers from those runways in less than a day. • Conservative (and most liberal) media hail the new President's decisive action. He has shown spine! Assad is once again vilified as the obvious perpetrator. • Even in the liberal media, few dare to suggest that factions of the opposition could very well be responsible for those chemicals. • Trumps political PACs immediately begin fundraising, using the death of children as theircalling card. Disgusting? You be the judge. • Trump continues to disallow Syrian children from coming to the US as refugees. How to Read the Tea Leaves. Let's switch to numbers. And, let's get back to issues of conspiracy. We “conspiracy theorists” often refer to the notion of “false flags,” an old maritime tradition. You fly the enemy's flag (on your ship) and then commit heinous acts. The enemy gets blamed. Nazis falsely blamed the fire in the Reichstag (1933) BILL WOODS (Continued from page 2) housing also centers on providing on the communists (giving Hitler a green light in his push toward WWII). In 1964, the US blamed North Vietnamese warships for a confrontation in the Gulf of Tonkin (pushing us headlong into the Vietnam War). History has proven there were no enemy ships. Were the chemicals at Kahn Sheikoun a false flag? With this question in mind, here are some of what Donald Rumsfeld famously called the “known knowns” 1. By the time of the missile attacks, Trumps poll numbers had reached abysmal lows. 2. The push to examine his ties with Russia and the manipulation of the 2016 election were gaining more headlines. In spite of his efforts, Obamacare remained the law of the land. His presidency was in shambles. Worst of all, the Donald was being laughed at. 3. On the morning of April 4, an Assad warplane apparently bombed a building in the town of Khan Sheikoun. 4. Opposition voices claimed the bomb contained sarin gas. 5. But, various factions in the ISIS/Al Quaeda opposition are known to have been creating (and employing) crude chemical weapons, Chlorine and others) for years in Syria. 6. Images of the victims indicate that the gas was in fact chlorine phosphorous and not the more deadly sarin. Obvious questions Here is your chance to judge an issue of geo—political intrigue. You be the judge. Follow the money. Who really benefits? 1. Days after the Trump State Department had declared that he could remain in power, why would Assad do something so stupid as attacking civilians with gas? 2. Why did our President choose to shoot first, before investigating the validity of Al Qaeda claims? 3. If Assad did it, why did he do it? 4. If Al Qaeda created a false flag, why did they do it? 5. Who had more to gain? To lose? 6. Why would Trump seemingly go against the Russians in Syria? Or did he? Why did he warn them? 7. Finally, who are always big winners in wars? I'll answer this one: the banks which fund both sides, and the weapons manufacturers, which supply both sides. And what country do most of the banks and the weapons makers hail from? You definitely know the answer to that one. Acknowledgement: Although I did not footnote the facts in this article, much of the material related to the chemicals and missile attack were gleaned from a long article by Scott Ritter. He's the former Iraq weapons inspector who gained fame by insisting, over and over, that Saddam Hussein had no weapons of mass destruction. I encourage readers to check out Ritter's long essay. Google: “Scott Ritter Wag the Dog”. Disclaimer: As a freelance journalist for the worldwide Franciscans I found myself in hot war zones on three continents. Thus, I hate war more than anything. I'm sure that hatred colored what I put in this article. more funding and support for neighborhood housing development corporations. Simpson also noted that the City must provide basic services more efficiently in order to deal with its perennial budget issues. As someone who has lived in both cities, the Cincinnati in poverty and the more affluent Cincinnati, she feels uniquely poised to lead us in the direction of creating one, unified City. By implementing "the power of we," she concluded, we can bring this City together. THE VOICE OF THE STREET...UNSILENCED �No. 35 4 13 STREET VOICE | A p r i l 2 1 - M a y 4 , 2 0 17 OBSESSED WITH BEING FIRST HOME AT LAST Trump has just got to be first, THOSE ARE WORDS USED BY SO MANY Even when these rankings AT THE END OF A DAY Make The Donald the worst. THOSE ARE GOOD WORDS UNTIL YOU FIND THAT IN It should come as no surprise, That he may be the President Who tells the most lies. YOUR HOME YOU CAN'T STAY AFTER BEING HOMELESS FOR FIVE YEARS AND FIGHTING FOR THE ANNA LOUIS INN FINDING AN APARTMENT STARTING MY LIFE OVER I THOUGHT MY FIGHT WAS OVER THEN BILL WOODS I BEGAN TO SEE OLD BULDINGS BEING Contributing Writer RECONSTRUCTED GRANTING JOBS FOR SO MANY LIVING BY GOODNESS Each day God gives us life How merciful our creator He gives us a wonderful start To live life with breath In our lungs and a beating heart Living by goodness and by grace Thank you God for another day Living by goodness makes one feel good And thankful for Gods good grace TO SEE NEW RESTURANTS ALL OVER TOWN I FIGURED IT WAS A GOOD THING TO EAT PLENTY I BEGAN TO SEE PEOPLE BEING MOVED OUT OF THEIR HOMES WHERE THEY'D LIVED FOR YEARS DOESN'T MATER WHETHER YOU BLIND, CRIPPLED OR CRAZY YOU HAVE NO SAY SO MY DEAR THEN I SAW HOW EXSPENSIVE RESTURANTS WERE, I WENT TO WENDYS AND THEY WERE GONE I SAW BEER BREWIES ON EVERY CORNER, PARKING LOTS FOR THEIR CUSTOMERS I GOT SCARED THEN THEY DEMOLISHION OF THE STORE NEXT KIM GREEN Streetvibes Distributor & Contributing Writer DOOR TO ME GAVE ME THE SENSE TO GET PREPARED AFTER STANDING UP FOR THE RIGHTS OF SO MANY I'M READY TO STAND UP FOR MY RIGHTS I JUST FOUND OUT THAT MY HOME HAD BEEN SOLD YEARS AGO NOW I AM READY TO FIGHT STILL NOT UNDERSTANDING THE POLITICS, CITY OR GOVERNMENT POLICYS AND RULES I JUST SEE THE POOR BEING MOVED OUT OF THE RICHES WAY AND I FEEL IT'S CRUEL THE POINT IS NOT THAT THE BUYERS OF YOUR HOME IS PAYING FOR YOUR MOVE AN PACKING THAT WAS EASY BUT WONDER WHEN THEY'LL BE BACK TO MOVE YOU AGAIN PACKING SO I’M TRYING TO FIND A HOME WHERE I WILL BE SAFE WITH NO FEARS OF A CHANGING WORLD WITH NO CONTROL OVER THESE CHANGES OTHER THAN TO PROTEST AND SHOUT OUT LOUD I PUT IT ALL IN THE HANDS OF GOD AND KNOW AND BELEIVE HE HAS A PLAN FOR THIS CLOUD NOW I CAN'T BELEIVE HOME AT LAST FOR I DON'T KNOW HOW LONG MY HOME WILL BE MINE TO BE HOME ALONE WE ALL NEED TO PUT ALL FAITH AN TRUST IN GOD LET HIM READ BETWEEN THE LINES WILLA DENISE JONES Streetvibes Distributor & Contributing Writer THE VOICE OF THE STREET...UNSILENCED �14 PUZZLES A p r i l 2 1 - M a y 4 , 2 0 17 | N o . 35 4 CROSSWORD PUZZLE NO. 123 Across 3. Very angry 1. Den 4. Entourage 5. A strong line 5. Regress 9. Established line of travel 6. Be indebted to 14. Fiend 7. Look searchingly 15. Pitcher 8. Mistake 16. Tripod 9. Withdraw 17. Dried vegetable matter used as fuel 18. Swerve 19. A squeaking sound 20. Lure 22. Wander 24. Incumbency 26. Beam 31. Far beyond the norm 33. A small sphere 34. Extraterrestrial object 37. Singing voice 39. Stead 40. Primate 41. On the move 42. Conclusion 43. Annoy 45. Approach 46. Wash lightly without soap 48. Parka 50. Repeat broadcast 52. Well-founded 54. Ran very quickly 57. Faction 59. Swiss house 61. Take in water 65. Facial expression 67. Morsel 68. Large body of water 69. Chills and fever 70. Notion 71. Animal 10. Paddle 11. Employ 12. Beverage 13. Moose 21. Interest followed with exaggerated zeal 23. Cloudy diffused matter, suspended in the air 25. Wipe out 27. lnauspicious 28. Foreigner 29. 13 to 19 year olds 30. Musical composition 32. Part of a church 34. Unit of weight for SODOKU PUZZLE NO 252 - MEDIUM precious stones 35. Speak up 36. Fruit of the gourd family 38. Fatigued 41. Leg bone 44. Epoch 46. Hurry 47. Live in 49. Not present 51. Fraudulent scheme 53. Acclaim 55. Leave or strike out 56. Dissuade 58. Garment worn in ancient Rome 60. Squad 72. Small open pie 61. Small float made of 73. Limited period of time cork 62. Frozen water Down 63. Pasture 1. A slow pace of running 64. Fuel 2. Broker 66. Belonging to us PUZZLE SOLUTIONS ISSUE 350 CROSSWORD PUZZLE NO. 122 SODOKU PUZZLE NO 252- MEDIUM PUZZLES from puzzlechoice.com and puzzles.ca THE VOICE OF THE STREET...UNSILENCED �No. 35 4 RESOURCES | A p r i l 2 1 - M a y 4 , 2 0 17 Central Access Point 381-SAFE Shelter: Women and Children Bethany House 557-2873 1841 Fairmount Ave. 45214 The Esther Marie Hatton Center for Women 2499 Reading Road 562-1980 Grace Place Catholic Worker House 681-2365 1730 Race Street 45202 St. Francis Soup Kitchen 535-2719 Prince of Peace Lutheran Church 621-7265 1528 Race St. 45202 Churches Active in Northside 591-2246 Madisonville Ed & Assistance Center 271-5501 Other Resources St. Vincent de Paul 562-8841 215 E. 14th St. 45202 4600 Erie Ave. 45227 Serves area codes: 45226, 45227, 45208, 45209 131 E. 12th Street 45202 YWCA Battered Women’s Shelter 872-9259 1125 Bank Street 45214 Shelter: Men Treatment or Supportive Recovery: Men Shelterhouse 721-0643 Charlie’s 3/4 House 784-1853 411 Gest St. 45203 St. Fran/St. Joe Catholic Work. House 381-4941 2121 Vine Street 45202 1437 Walnut Street 45202 Prospect House 921-1613 1805 Dalton Ave. 45214 Starting Over 961-2256 City Gospel Mission 241-5525 682 Hawthorne Ave. 45205 Parkway Center 661-4620 Treatment or Supportive Recovery: Women Shelter: Youth Sheakley Center for Youth (18-24 y/o) 2522 Highland Ave. 45219 569-9500 Lighthouse Youth Crisis Center (10-17 y/o) 3330 Jefferson Ave 45220 961-4080 Interfaith Hospitality Network First Step Home 961-4663 2203 Fulton, Cinti, Ohio 45206 Treatment or Supportive Recovery: Both AA Hotline 351-0422 CCAT 381-6672 471-1100 830 Ezzard Charles Dr. 45214 Joseph House (Veterans) Housing: 241-2965 1522 Republic Street 45202 Caracole (HIV/AIDS) 761-1480 CMHA 721-4580 Excel Development 632-7149 OTR Community Housing 381-1171 114 W. 14th Street 45202 Talbert House 221-HELP Tender Mercies 721-8666 27 W. 12th Street 45202 Tom Geiger House 961-4555 Volunteers of America 381-1954 Anna Louise Inn 421-5211 2401-2411 Reading Rd. 45202 Cincinnati Union Bethel 768-6907 Hamilton County Mental Health and Recovery Services Board 946-8000 Recovery Health Access Center 281-7422 Sober Living 681-0324 Talbert House 221-HELP Advocacy Catholic Social Action 421-3131 Community Action Agency 569-1840 Contact Center 381-4242 Franciscan JPIC 721-4700 Gr. Cinti Coalition for the Homeless 421-7803 117 E. 12th Street, Cinti, Ohio 45202 VA 977-6800 VA Homeless 859-572-6226 Legal Aid Society 241-9400 Ohio Justice & Policy Center 421-1108 UpSpring 363-3300 Food/Clothing Health 2401 Reading Rd. 45202 First Lutheran Church 421-0065 1208 Race St. Food - Last Monday 12-1 Clothing - second Monday 12-1 Lord’s Pantry 621-5300 OTR/Walnut Hills Kitchen & Pantry 961-1983 Center for Respite Care 621-1868 3550 Washington Ave. 45229 Cincinnati Health Network 2825 Burnet Ave. 45219 961-0600 Crossroad Health Center 381-2247 OTR: 1620 Vine Street 45202 Walnut Hills: 2631 Gilbert Ave. 45206 5 E. Liberty St. 45202 Health Resource Center 357-4602 McMicken Integrated Care Clinic and Mobile Our Daily Bread 621-6364 $100 40 E. McMicken Ave, Cinti, Ohio FreeStore/FoodBank 241-1064 112 E. Liberty Street 45202 Salvation Army 762-5660 Medical Van 352-6364 McMicken Dental Clinic 352-6363 40 E. McMicken Ave, Cinti Mental Health Access Point 558-8888 NAMI of Hamilton County 351-3500 PATH Outreach 977-4489 4230 Hamilton Ave. 45223 6037 Cary Ave. 45224 Shelter: Family 15 for 26 issues $150 THE VOICE OF THE STREET...UNSILENCED Center Independent Living Options 241-2600 Peaslee Neighborhood Center 621-5514 Franciscan Haircuts from the Heart 381-0111 Goodwill Industries 771-4800 Intercommunity Justice & Peace Cr. 579-8547 Mary Magdalen House 721-4811 1223 Main St. 45202 People Working Cooperatively 351-7921 The Caring Place 631-1114 Talbert House 751-7747 United Way 211 Women Helping Women 977-5541 Off The Streets 421-5211 Hamilton County Office of Reentry 946-4304 138 E. Court Street Room # 101 First Floor Hamilton/Middletown St. Raephaels 981-4200 Salvation Army 863-1445 Serenity House Day Center 422-8555 Open Door Pantry 868-3276 Northern Kentucky Brighton Center 799 Ann St. Newport, KY ECHO/Hosea House Fairhaven Resuce Mission Homeward Bound Youth Mathews House Homeless & Housing Coalition Parish Kitchen Pike St. Clinic Transitions, Inc Welcome House of NKY 205 West Pike Street, Covington, KY 41011 859-491-8303 859-261-5857 859-491-1027 859-581-1111 859-261-8009 859-727-0926 859-581-7745 859-291-9321 859-491-4435 859-431-8717 Women’s Crisis Center 859-491-3335 VA Domiciliary 859-572-6202 Emergency Shelter of Northern Kentucky 634 Scott St. 41011 859-291-4555 Want to advertise in Streetvibes? You can support our mission and spread the word about your business. For more information contact Justin Jeffre at 513421-70803 x 12 or email streetvibes@cincihomeless.org for 26 issues and a $50 donation �16 A p r i l 2 1 - M a y 4 , 2 0 17 | N o . 35 4 S treetvibes is distributed by individuals who purchase the paper for 75 cents per copy and sell it for a $2.00 donation, keeping the profit they have earned. Becoming a Distributor is a great way for individuals who are financially poor to get back on (or stay on) their feet. This program provides supplemental income for those unable to secure other employment. Money earned helps meet basic housing, food and health care needs. The program is a hand up for people who are often in a place of getting only a hand out, or even no hand at all. All Distributors wear a badge and usually a vest and can be found selling the paper in Downtown Cincinnati, Clifton, Northside, Northern Kentucky and at area churches. 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For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource 2017 Text A resource consisting primarily of words for reading. Examples include books, letters, dissertations, poems, newspapers, articles, archives of mailing lists. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre Text. Original Format The type of object, such as painting, sculpture, paper, photo, and additional data Newspaper Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource April 21-May 4, 2017 Subject The topic of the resource Homelessness Description An account of the resource Pg 1: Cover Page Pg 2: From the Director Community Issues Forum Features Two Mayoral Candidates Pg 3: Art Saves Lives Pg 4: GCHC Pg 5: The Worst is Yet to Come The Science Marchers are Coming Pg 6: GCHC Pg 7: What’s Really Going on in Syria? Pg 8: Bankrupting the Enemy Pg 9: Last Week This week Pg 10: Justice Denied, Society Threatened Pg 11: Border Stories Pg 12: GCHC Pg 13: Street Voice Pg 14: Puzzles Pg 15: Resources Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Streetvibes Archive Project Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Streetvibes Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Greater Cincinnati Homeless Coalition Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource April 21-May 4, 2017 Contributor An entity responsible for making contributions to the resource Josh Spring Bill Woods Jim Luken Dr. Mark Mussman Robert Park Karen Elliot Michael Earl Patton Former Judge Mark Painter Steve Sunderland Sr. Nicole Varnerin Kim Green Willa Denise Jones Alice Schneider Saad Goshn Dylan Speeg Twiiter Michael Stucker Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource PDF Alice Schneider Art Bill Woods Border Stories Cincinnati Dr. Mark Mussman Dylan Speeg Former Judge Mark Painter Japan Jim Luken Josh Spring Karen Elliot Kim Green Mayoral Candidates Michael Earl Patton Michael Stucker Pearl Harbor Robert Park Saad Goshn Sr. Nicole Varnerin Steve Sunderland Syria Taxes Twiiter Voting Willa Denise Jones https://streetvibesarchive.net/files/original/01230a1f82c83199e2f9769f10a9ed7e.pdf 71de07003e0692b7d1e8cba609ecf7f3 PDF Text Text April 22nd - M ay 5th 2016 | Vol. 20 Issue 9 (No. 328) advocating justice | Building community A Death in the Hood | 3 This issue sponsored by (Retired) Judge Mark P. Painter INSIDE THIS ISSUE Panama Papers, Free Trade, and the Poor | 4 Keep Our Courts: Kids First | 8 Fear Overtakes Common Sense in Rise of "Bathroom Bills" | 6 Homeless people face agerelated conditions earlier than people with homes | 9 Greater Cincinnati Homeless Coalition 113 E. 12th Street Cincinnati, Ohio 45202 streetvoice | 13 �2 LOCAL From the Director: Go To Our Ole City Hall JOSH SPRING Executive Director “Half of democracy is just showing up.” - Ralph Nader I f you have not been to City Hall before, please go. Walk around and become familiar with the building; our building. Please attend a city council meeting and some council committee meetings. Most Cincinnatians have probably never been in City Hall and certainly most have never been in council chambers. This and low-voter turnout are connected. Perhaps people feel there is nothing they can do to change what occurs at City Hall. Or perhaps people think what happens there doesn’t really affect their lives or the lives of people around them. Both feelings are incorrect. Individuals and especially groups can affect what occurs at City Hall, yes through voting, and also through being there, speaking and meeting with council members. The Apr 22 - May 5 , 2016 | No. 328 decisions made in council chambers do affect our lives. Certainly we may not feel as much of that positive affect as we should because 70% of our taxdollars go into police/fire alone and much of the dollars that pass through our city go to for-profit developers and the like, but we can change that. It is both disappointing and alarming whenever I go to a council meeting and very few people are sitting there for the meeting. And that probably happens more than not. Real decision making power by the People requires that decisions and discussions happen in the light. The government must be transparent and operate in the light, and we need to shed light in order to display the truth and fight for positive change. If you can get away from work on a lunch break or at another time, go by our City Hall. ------------------------ Streetvibes is an activist newspaper, advocating justice and building community. Streetvibes reports on economic issues, civil rights, the environment, the peace movement, spirituality and the struggle against homelessness and poverty. Distributed by individuals experiencing homelessness or on the edge of homelessness, in exchange for a $2.00 Donation. Streetvibes is published twice a month by the Greater Cincinnati Coalition for the Homeless (GCCH), a 501(c)3 non-profit organization that works to eradicate homelessness in Cincinnati. 113 East 12th St. Cincinnati OH, 45202 Ph: 513.421.7803 FAX: 513.421.7813 WEB: www.cincihomeless.org BLOG: streetvibes.wordpress.com EMAIL: streetvibes@cincihomeless.org Editor: Justin Jeffre Executive Director: Josh Spring Director of Development: Leslie Moorhead Director of Education: Mark Mussman Distributor Program Manager: Justin Jeffre Layout: Peter Kobak Reception: Fran Barrett and Tim Burke discuss their strategy to tear down the Dennison Hotel Photo: Justin Jeffre Are We Really Serious About Addressing Poverty? What Would It Take To Bring Real Change? Kristen Barker Depicts Worker-Cooperatives as Part of the Solution in Part IV of a Series of Community Forums BILL WOODS Contributing Writer F actors that continually arise in deliberations about reducing poverty are the loss of traditional industrial jobs and the large number of employees now working at jobs that do not pay a living wage. Innovative efforts are emerging in communities across the country to create alternative employment in an economy now dominated by large corporations and global markets. Part IV of the Community Issues Forum series on reducing poverty in Greater Cincin- nati focused on one promising initiative that is currently underway locally. Kristen Barker, Executive Director of the Cincinnati Union Coop Initiative, discussed progress to date in launching worker-owned coops in this region. She began by explaining that cooperatives of various kinds have been part of our national development, and that approximately 29,000 coops exist in the U.S. today. One of the big success stories for cooperatives came when people Derrick Hudson, Iolanda Barton, Patricia J. Brown, Larry Johnson Maintenance: Pete Roper CONTRIBUTORS THIS ISSUE Writers: Josh Spring, Bill Woods, Jim Luken, Michael Earl Patton, Dr. Mark Mussman, Hannah Ramlo, Peter Kobak, Jen Arens, Steve Sunderland, Lee McCoy, Kim Green, Will Denise Jones Photography/Artwork: banded together to bring electrification to many isolated rural areas of our country. Worker-owned coops, however, are a different story. Barker estimated that only about 350 workerowned businesses now operate in the U.S., and they provide work for approximately 7,000 people. However, despite Mark Twain’s joke about the backwardness of Cincinnati, quipped Barker, this area is (Continued on page 7) THE VOICE OF THE STREET...UNSILENCED Justin Jeffre, John Bealle, Michael Earl Patton, Dr. Mark Mussman, Leslie Moorhead, Bill Woods Thank You For Reading Streetvibes And Supporting Our Mission To Build Community And Advocate Justice. Streetvibes and The Greater Cincinnati Coalition for the Homeless do not endorse candidates for public office. �No. 328 | Apr 2 2 - M ay 5 , 2 0 1 6 A Death in the Hood 3 LOCAL JIM LUKEN Contributing Writer be ironic. It refers to the good white entrepreneurs and business people and residents who have come into our neighborhood following the 2001 riots. The “newbies” a friend of can community that has inhabited the Hood for so many years, gentrification continues to be a disaster, a festering wound. The film “Good White People” illustrates the re- “The killing of one’s soul, little by little, day after day, is a lot worse than someone coming into your house and lynching you.” - Samuel L. Jackson S aturday, April 16, 3PM: I watched a 16-minute documentary on gentrification and racism at St. Francis School, Vine and Liberty, OTR. The film chronicles the eviction of Reginald Stroud Sr. from his home and businesses. Its title: “Good White People.” Saturday, April 16, 4:45 PM, as I left the video event, cop cars screamed by me on Vine St. I climbed on my bike and rode a block north to Vine and Green, where, only a minute earlier, a 32-year-old man had been shot several times. Greg Tremble’s blood was oozing into the gutter. The cops pulled his shirt up, revealing several bullet wounds. He was pronounced dead at the scene. Synchronism Sometimes things dovetail in a way that immediately makes them symbolic, or iconic, a hundred times more powerful than when they happen in isolation. Sometimes these comings—together are visible to millions, as when a songbird landed on Bernie Sanders’ outdoor podium as he was campaigning in Portland several weeks ago. Bernie saw it as a sign of peace. He said it meant we should end all war. As I sit down to write this review of “Good White People,” I find myself dealing with the mutuality of the killing of Greg Tremble and the documentary on gentrification. I see Tremble’s murder as extreme disrespect, and this disrespect has its roots in racism. Taken together, the two events spoke these words to me: “Racism (like war) must be ended.” The killings will only end when the marginalization and the systematic dehumanization of African Americans in our country is brought to a close—dramatically (over time)—but once and for all. This can be made to happen. Sociologists know how to do it. Anti­racism Reginald Stroud Sr. speaks about gentrificationfrom first hand experience Photo: John Bealle classes can be taught in every grade school and every high school. Four hundred years of racial torment in this country must be pro—actively brought to an end. The previous issue of this newspaper featured a front page story announcing the screening of “Good White People” by Jerrod Welling— Cann and Eric Stoll. Welling­ Cann said of their work, “I hope the film can help mobilize people to organize and resist racial injustice in OTR. And,” he added, “stop the gentrification.” Many more than a hundred of us—black and white—attended. Most stayed for the panel discussion afterward. I thought the film was incredibly pointed and powerful, short enough to be accessible to all. For me, Tremble’s death was like a huge exclamation point at the end of “Good White People.” Good White People? The title of the film is meant to mine calls them. The filmmakers use Stroud’s story as an emblem for the hundreds (thousands?) of displacements and evictions that have gone on for the past ten years, it also refers to the thousands of good white suburbanites, loaded with spending money, who come into the neighborhood, day and night, to wine and dine and party, in places that are “priced out” for most of the poor folks who live here. These good white people are not evil...but they aren’t exactly good either, especially for our neighborhood, our “beloved community,” as the People’s Movement describes OTR. The so called “renaissance” of OTR, has created more problems that it has solved. During the most recent election cycle, David Mann suggested that if the poor are pushed out, OTR will no longer exist. It will become another Anderson or Glendale. In terms of the African Ameri- OTR resident gives a powerful speech about ongoing racism in Cincinnati Photo: John Bealle THE VOICE OF THE STREET...UNSILENCED alities of that disaster in terms of one black businessman, Reginald Stroud. It chronicles his expulsion by Urban Sites (one of the gentrifying companies) from his home, along with the two small businesses he ran, all at 1123 Walnut Street. Stroud had a variety store, “Reggie’s Anybody’s Dream,” which specialized in selling 2 cent candy. Next door was a small “dojo” where Stroud taught martial arts and self-defense. He was given 45 days to move his home and his businesses, an impossible task. Aftermath of the screening After the screening at St. Francis, each of a panel of six people had three minutes to give their “take” on the neighborhood blight, known as “gentrification.” Reginald Stroud spoke first. He was participating in the screening, even though his wife had died only two days earlier. He described himself as “an activist for righteousness, seeking that which is right for humankind.” Although he had named his store “Anybody’s Dream,” Stroud insisted that “there has never been an American Dream for the black man.” Panelist Ashley Herrington of Black Lives Matter made the claim that “police are complicit in the gentrification process, but they are left out of the conversation on gentrification.” Nobody sees the police as involved in the process, according to Herrington. But she insisted that the cops are aiding and abetting the legal crimes against the poor that are happening all over the neighborhood. Longtime activist Bonnie Neumeier talked about the “People’s Movement for Justice,” which she has been involved in for decades. She stated that “The film reminds me of our vulnerability as renters. Places of our history, memory and meaning are simply being erased.” Vanessa Sparks, who for many years has been the director of the Mohawk Area Development Corporation, spoke of the encroachment of (Continued on page 12) �4 WORLD Panama Papers, Free Trade, and the Poor MICHAEL EARL PATTON Y Contributing Writer ou’ve probably heard of the Panama Papers by now. These are the millions of pages of confidential documents from a firm in Panama that an anonymous hacker sent to the German newspaper Süddeutsche Zeitung. This firm, Mossack Fonseca, specializes in setting up shell corporations so that their clients could avoid taxes. Through these corporations, which are little more than a legal address, wealthy individuals and government leaders are able to channel money and in this way hide profits from government authorities and the public. Often the purpose is to avoid taxes, but these shell companies are also used for drug trafficking and weapons smuggling. Profits from these illicit activities are then hidden, again using shell companies. Dirty money is made “clean,” at least as far as the government authorities can see. Mossack Fonseca is just one firm that sets up shell companies; they alone created over 200,000. The Global Financial Integrity organization estimates that over a trillion dollars is siphoned out of poor and emerging market countries every year, in large part by using shell corporations. And by avoiding taxes, those who rely the most on government for education, health care, roads, security, and protection from unsafe working conditions are the ones being hurt the most. In short, the poor are the ones who pay. The Global Financial Integrity organization attempts to track illicit flows of money from developing countries and produces an annual report on their analyses. The latest report, Illicit Financial Flows from Developing Countries 2004 – 2013, was released in December 2015. They admit they are probably seeing only a fraction of the illegal flows of money. By far the biggest portion they see is from “misinvoicing” where the true value of the goods imported and exported are falsely declared. In short, if country A – let’s call it Freedonia – exports a million dollars’ worth of shirts to the United States, then the United States should have received a million dollars’ worth of shirts from Freedonia. It is far too difficult to match up individual cargoes, but many countries report the sum totals of the values to and from each country that is imported and exported. So at the end of the year if Freedonia exports $10 million dollars’ worth of goods to the United States but the United States reports that it imported $40 million dollars’ worth of goods from Freedonia, and this sort of thing happens year after year, there is a problem. At least one side is lying and possibly both. Using Freedonia as an example, the fictional country made famous in the Marx Brothers movie Duck Soup, is appropriate because the scheme is worthy of the plot for one of their movies. Let’s go back to the million dollars’ worth of shirts exported by Freedonia. But in this case the Fredonian exporter says that the shirts are only worth half a million dollars and that is all they received for them. When the Freedonian profits are calculated, the company says that since a half a million dollars is about what it cost to make the shirts, then there is little or no profit on which to pay the taxes. The country and people of Freedonia lose out on the tax revenue for the half million dollars’ additional profit that was, in fact, made. And the importer in the United States can play a similar game. The million dollars’ worth of shirts will be sold for $2 million. But instead of paying $1 million, the importer says they actually cost $1.5 million. By the time the shirts are shipped to the stores and all the cost for running the stores is paid, the total cost is almost $2 million. In the end, the importer says that very little profit was made and pays the taxes accordingly. The country and people of the United States lose out on the half million dollars’ extra profit that was, in fact, made. Free trade is important for this scheme to work at its most effective level. Most countries traditionally levied import duties on goods. The taxes the importer avoids by falsely declaring the value of the goods to be too high will be offset by the increase in tariff duties. As Global Financial Integrity pointed out, “[i]f the marginal duty rate on imports is lower than the corporate tax rate, private businesses can still profit by over-invoicing imports as long as the higher import costs reduce taxes more than they increase the additional duties payable.” Reduce the duties to zero and the scheme can become profitable regardless of the corporate tax rate, something that is never addressed by proponents of free trade. It may be difficult, but the authorities in Freedonia and the United States might be able to compare invoices and shipping declarations. Then they will find that the two don’t match. Shirts that were worth a half million dollars when they left Freedonia were worth a million and a half when they arrived in the United States. There is a total profit of a million dollars on which no taxes were paid. Corrupt officials aside, and bribes are a business expense that companies would rather avoid in any event, this poses a problem. And here is a place where shell companies are useful. Let’s say the Freedonian exporter did not sell the shirts directly to the American importer. Instead, the Freedonian exporter sold them for a half million dollars to a shell company that was based in a country that has no corporate income tax, like the Cayman Islands. And the Cayman Islands shell company was the one that sold them to the American importer for a million and a half dollars. The shirts went from Freedonia to the United States, just as before. But now it is this Cayman Islands company that, on paper, made the million dollars’ profit. Since there is no corporate income tax there, it doesn’t matter how much profit was made. In fact, there is virtually no reporting necessary. So it’s all legal in the Cayman Islands and, on the surface, appears to be legal in Freedonia and the United States. There is almost no way for government authorities to track down what really happened. If one uses shell companies to own other shell companies, it becomes even more difficult. The Freedonian exporter may own a shell company that has a partial interest in the Cayman Islands shell company, for example. With nesting and interlocking shell companies, there is almost no chance Money hanging on a laundry line Photo: Michael Earl Patton THE VOICE OF THE STREET...UNSILENCED Feb.12- 25 , 2015 | No. 297 of finding out what happened to the profit. And no chance that the proper taxes will be paid. The European Union released a list of 30 countries and territories last year that it called tax havens. Some may have a small income tax, but allow certain income to be tax free. Others are used as way stations while moving money around. Their list of 30 is: Andorra, Liechtenstein, Guernsey, Monaco, Mauritius, Liberia, Seychelles, Brunei, Hong Kong, Maldives, Cook Islands, Nauru, Niue, Marshall Islands, Vanuatu, Anguilla, Antigua and Barbuda, Bahamas, Barbados, Belize, Bermuda, British Virgin Islands, Cayman Islands, Grenada, Montserrat, Panama, St Vincent and the Grenadines, St Kitts and Nevis, Turks and Caicos, and the US Virgin Islands. Note that the Panama Papers come from just one firm located in just one of these 30 countries and jurisdictions. By some measures the United States should be on that list. In early February Bloomberg BusinessWeek had an “Opening Remarks” article on how money from Switzerland is finding its way to an “unlikely haven,” the U.S. Yes, the U.S. has a federal income tax, but certain states such as Nevada and South Dakota have very tight secrecy laws. And the tax does not apply to income earned abroad by foreigners. This is ideal for foreigners who want to hide income from their home countries, such as China, Russia, and countries in the Mid-East. Creating shell companies which hide these assets from the home countries is a growing business for a few states. The irony is that the U.S. had been in the forefront of going after Swiss banks that were helping Americans from sheltering income. More than 80 Swiss banks have paid a total of $5 billion to the U.S. in fines, penalties, and restitution. Now a lot of money that had been in Switzerland is coming here. In theory, those foreigners have already paid the taxes due to their home countries, but there is no way of checking. The German newspaper Die Zeit, in an article explaining how the poorest wind up paying the costs for tax evasion through schemes as illustrated by the Panama Papers (Auf Kosten der Armsten), pointed out that while the U.S. is aggressive in demanding information from other countries, it is much less willing to reciprocate. All this hurts the poor, through such things as lousy schools and poor health care. Oxfam estimates that the richest 1% own half the wealth in the world. The bottom half, on the other hand, own just 0.6% of the wealth. It should be obvious that this system is not sustainable in the long run. As technology advances and competition increases, we need the brightest and the best to receive the appropriate education. Right now the idea seems to be that if your family is wealthy, then of course you are one of the brightest and best. Uh-huh. The children of the wealthy get the best education even though there might be millions of people who would be more suited and could make better use of it. But they are the poor, so they never get the chance. Even good vocational training is often difficult to obtain. The countries that give all their citizens a fair chance to get a good education suited for their abilities will, I believe, prevail. ------------------------ �5 LOCAL No. 328 | Apr 2 2 - M ay 5 , 2 0 1 6 Pay it Forward: Park + Vine’s Ethical Challenge DR. MARK MUSSMAN Staff Writer L ast month, I took a group of students to Park + Vine on Main Street, which bills itself as a “Vegan General Store” to check out their Pay It Forward and sliding scale options. The more that I work within the community, I realize that everyone can use their talents to create opportunity for those who are struggling and suffering. Park + Vine has taken inspiration from a restaurant in North Carolina by creating a model that has been beneficial for people experiencing homelessness in Cincinnati. We were walking through the store and I overheard a student stay that veganism is a “first-world problem.” I didn’t get an opportunity to delve deeper into the concept because we were heading out the door, but it really stuck in my head and has been something I’ve been wrestling with since. In the interest of full disclosure, I’ve been vegan for several years, and I’ve been a vegetarian for 20 years. I became vegetarian to decrease my risk of colon cancer – a disease that took my mother’s life while she was in her 40’s. I did not come to vegetarianism “because of the animals” or the “environmental impact” but rather to save my own life. Since last month, I’ve been walking around wondering what connections can be made between the suffering of humans and animals. I think there are real easy connections between the health effects of animal consumption, and the fact that farm animals consume huge amounts of grain and other food that humans could eat, if they had access to it. To get another perspective on this, I decided to ask Dan Korman, the owner of Park + Vine, a few questions about his journey and the Pay It Forward program. I asked him whether he thought veganism is a first-world problem, and he immediately responded with compassion, trying to figure out the perspective of the student. He connected it with how “most meals are centered around vegetables, not meat” in many parts of the world. He saw the comment as possible deflection, or that they don’t want to take responsibility. “We are living in denial about a lot of things that we take for granted, where they come from, and how they get to us.” Dan grew up in a typical American middle-class family, that ate most of their meals at home – typically centered around meat. He became vegetarian 30 years ago while living with a vegetarian roommate, and when out with a friend, he saw how disgusting noodles with creamed beef seemed to him. He immediately dropped red meat, and phased out all other animal products. While “it’s hard to avoid” animal products, Dan says that becoming vegan has been one of the easiest decisions he has made, and one of the easiest to stick to throughout his life. He would like to know how people have been impacted by the availability of vegan food at Park + Vine, or even the composting and home care items they carry. For me personally, Park + Vine has been an important establishment for those reasons, but also because I can usually walk in and run into a friend. There seems to be a strong community feel at Park + Vine, which is why, I believe, the Pay It Forward program has been such a Pay It Forward Board needs more love Photo: Mark Mussman “Breakdown Stereotypes” Pay It Forward and Sliding Scale item available Photo: Mark Mussman natural feel. Zef, the chef at Park + Vine, wanted to do something like Pay It Forward before Dan went to Rosetta’s Kitchen in North Carolina. Pay It Forward works when people put a little extra money on their bill, and then they put the amount on the board. Anyone can pull the value from the board and use it at the lunch counter. “There was a period of time that the board was bustling, but now it’s not so much.” In the past, they have posted a success story from someone who was experiencing homelessness and using the board to eat. “Another piece of the puzzle is letting people in the community know about it.” Dan says he’s concerned that there aren’t enough people who know that it’s happening here on Main Street, but the Symphony has been inspired by Park + Vine, and they are doing something similar for their shows. Park + Vine also has a big plate of beans and rice available on sliding scale. People can pay $2 or $7 for the same size plate. A couple of months ago, I went with a gentleman who was sitting at the Coalition and was suffering from severe hunger. I asked if he wanted to check out Park + Vine and he was excited because he wants to eat healthy. He used the Pay It For- ward board, and we ate our meals, and he said it tasted amazing – “It kept me full for hours!” We are starting a new program through the Coalition called A Place at the Table that will encourage restaurants to get involved in eradicating homelessness. Restaurants will be able to use the model that we suggest, including a “round up” feature on their bill, or use their own strengths to find a good way to contribute. Nation Kitchen and Bar, in Pendleton, donates a portion of their “burger of the month” sales. As cliché as this is, I am a firm believer that until all of us are free, none of us are free. Over the years, my understanding of the connections between animal and human suffering has grown immensely. I get wary when people say things are first-world-problems when we have an ability to make changes. If you feel guilt about what you are doing, deflecting the issue is not a good look. It is a problem that animals are better fed than our neighbors. My hope is that people will try to live ethical lives, in the ways they feel most comfortable, and strive to do better with every bite. ------------------------ Zeff, head Chef at Park + Vine, makes awesome food Photo: Mark Mussman “Eradicate Misinformation” The Coalition for the Homeless provides Education and Service Programs that help to portray a more accurate and holistic picture of homelessness in Cincinnati. We believe an educated public can be a more compassionate public, willing to dedicate time and effort towards creating solutions to homelessness. The “Voice of the Homeless Speaker’s Bureau” program is made up of individuals currently experiencing homelessness or who have experienced homelessness, who share their experiences. The program is designed to put a face on homelessness and raise awareness about those struggling in our community. To schedule a speaker, contact Mark Mussman at (513) 421.7803 x14 THE VOICE OF THE STREET...UNSILENCED �6 NATIONAL Fear Overtakes Common Sense in Rise of "Bathroom Bills" Apr 22 - May 5 , 2016 | No. 328 HANNAH RAMLO PETER KOBAK Contributing Writers A merican history has a reputation for attempting to use legal frameworks as exclusionary controls, which is why the recent energy behind discriminatory “bathroom bills,” while disappointing, is not surprising. The women’s suffrage movement, protesters decrying Jim Crow laws, and current criminal justice activists fighting against mandatory minimums are all groups who have confronted the discrimination inherent in similar exclusionary legal controls. Following the recent progressive realization of laws protecting the rights of the LGBT+ community, the most prominent of which is marriage equality, a wave of restrictive legislation has served as the opponents’ response. In this vein, many cities and states have attempted to pass bills that would prohibit transgender individuals from using restrooms that match their gender identity. In doing so, these states target an even more vulnerable group than the gays and lesbians who championed marriage equality, since transgender individuals often wield even less influence in society’s power structures. The legal and psychological effects of the bathroom bills, most recently passed by North Carolina and Mississippi, are damaging and deplorable. While trips to the bathroom are a trivial element of a cisgender (alignment between gender identity and assigned sex at birth) person’s daily routine, the opposite is often true for a transgender individual. According to a study performed by the UCLA School of Law, 18% of transgender people have experienced simply being denied access to a bathroom. Another recent study of transgender students revealed deeply troubling statistics with an astronomically high 70% reporting problems with “access, harassment, or assault.” 15% of transgender students were driven to drop out of school due to harassment at some point in their lives. Some states even require an individual to undergo gender reassignment surgery in order to change their legal gender and use the restroom that aligns with it. Not only do such laws reinforce a misinformed, outdated, and inadequate understanding of gender, they also disenfranchise many transgender individuals who choose not to undergo gender reassignment surgery for a variety of reasons, including health and financial concerns, or simply because they don’t want to. If we look even more closely at the marginal- ization of transgender people, we see that there were more transgender homicide victims in 2015 than any other year previously recorded, and nearly half of all black, transgender people will statistically spend time in prison at some point in their lives. These injustices are driven by the poverty, homelessness, and participation in informal economies that comes with being discriminated against in mainstream society. The psychological, emotional, and physical effects of discrimination are reason enough for cities and states to become seized of the issue and search for effective ways to defend the rights of the transgender community. Fortunately, in twelve states that have waged attacks against the LGBT+ community by attempting to pass discriminatory restroom legislation, bathroom bills have failed. However, support for these proposals is becoming increasingly mainstreamed. In recent months there has been a flurry of activity and support that has enabled states like North Carolina and Mississippi to successfully pass discriminatory legislation. While there has been public backlash (PayPal and Deutsche Bank backtracking on investment plans, and cities including Dayton and Cincinnati banning city-funded travel to either state), the fight doesn’t end here. There are five other states with similar bills pending. If North Carolina and Mississippi are any evidence of the direction of this exclusionary movement, potential bathroom bills in other states pose a real and increasing threat to people’s safety. Rather than a case of some fringe conservative groups trying to tack bills onto their legislative CVs, this is a growing movement looking to strip the LGBT+ community of their human rights. The campaign to enact antitransgender laws is not only discriminatory, but also uses misleading and factually incorrect arguments under the guise of public safety and privacy. Perhaps the most cited rationale for barring transgender individuals from using restrooms that match their identity is the belief that some people may cheat the law to commit a sexual offense. The attempt and subsequent failure to pass anti-discriminatory protections in Houston used fear-mongering in its television commercials, saying that “even registered sex offenders could follow women or young girls into the bathroom. And if a business tried to stop them, they’d be fined. Protect women’s privacy. Prevent danger. Vote no on the Proposition.” Unsurprisingly, there is no evidence to support scare tactics like those used in Texas. The distressingly painful irony behind the recent slew of bathroom bills is that transgender individuals are the ones already being harassed and assaulted in bathrooms. While there are exactly zero crimes reported to have been committed by transgender individuals in bathrooms that match their gender identity, 9% of transgender individuals have reportedly been physically assaulted in bathrooms. These statistics have led some com- THE VOICE OF THE STREET...UNSILENCED mentators to wryly suggest that the few known cases of impropriety and lewd sexual conduct by politicians in bathrooms should be a source of greater public concern. School districts that have already implemented policies protecting transgender students have never encountered instances of individuals temporarily claiming a gender identity solely to access a bathroom or locker room. California’s School Success and Opportunity Act (AB 1266) stands as a model for inclusion and equality. The bill, which came into effect in January of 2014, proactively requires schools to permit students to engage in activities and access facilities that are “consistent with [their] gender identity, irrespective of the gender listed on the pupil's records.” While many efforts to pass legislation in the United States that would discriminate against the transgender community have failed to succeed, there are still legislative initiatives in the making. Five states either have bathroom bills in committee or are set to vote on them soon. State governments, NGOs, and activists would do well to consider the model of AB 1266 in California as a safeguard against discriminatory policies moving forward. If a shared goal of human rights seems too aspirational, then let common sense and evidence guide us towards adopting policies that protect our neighbors, regardless of personal beliefs and preferences. States looking to imitate North Carolina and Mississippi are placing the lives of their residents and our fellow citizens in danger. When arguments against equality are met with levelheaded responses and solutions, we can get serious about safety and put the political parade behind us. ------------------------ �NATIONAL Nashville vendor explains challenges to personal hygiene while homeless 7 No. 328 | Apr 2 2 - M ay 5 , 2 0 1 6 TAMMY HUNT I n housing, getting ready for the day takes 30 minutes, maybe 45. Running water, the ability to flush your toilet, and rinse your toothbrush means maintaining your daily hygiene pretty easily. However, for the past year, I've lived at a rural camp here in the Nashville area. A lack of identification, an injury that required surgery and a struggle to find work have all resulted in camping outdoors being necessary for me but not the best option for keeping clean. When discussing daily hygiene, the first thing that comes to mind is the simple task of taking a bath or shower. People with their own apartments or houses have access to instantly warm running water. Bathing at the camp is much more difficult. If it is not too cold, I can boil water and bathe in the privacy of my tent. This is the quickest method and takes up to an hour and a half. If I've been working or have gone several days without bathing, I have to bathe twice which can take over two hours. On cold days it is harder because bathing at the camp isn't an option. I then have to go to Ken and Carol's daytime homeless shelter at a church in East Nashville, or maybe a friend's house if possible. To do this I need a bus fare because without it, I'm stuck. Even with bus fare it can take up to four hours to get to the church, wait my turn to use the shower, and then take a bus ride back to my camp location. If I don't have bus fare I won't be able to bathe. Or I could walk, which could take up to eight hours in total. Just to bathe. I try to bathe every other day. If I have a few dollars I purchase toiletries. In the past, I've shoplifted a few times because I needed toiletries and had no money. If I don't have shampoo at the camp, dish soap it is. If we don't have dish soap, I'm pretty much screwed. When I do have some money, I buy a huge bottle of Scope mouthwash. I want to conserve water at my camp so I use scope instead to pour on my toothbrush and to rinse with while brushing my teeth. It's also diffi- BILL WOODS (Continued from page 2) currently considered to be a leader in worker-owned enterprises. Although worker-ownership had interested Barker for a number of years, it was not until her visit to Mondragon, Spain that she became committed to developing this work model in Cincinnati. Located in the Basque region of Spain, the Mondragon area was in dire economic depression when the coop movement took hold in the mid-1950s. Coops soon developed into Mondragon’s economic base, and produced a thriving economy and workforce in the region. Currently, THE CONTRIBUTOR - USA cult because the toothpaste will freeze when it gets too cold. Finding a clean place at the camp to keep the toothbrush so it won't get dirty or contaminated is always a challenge. Gel or hairspray attracts bugs so it isn't good to use them while living at a camp. I usually just put my hair in a quick ponytail in order to avoid the struggle of playing with my hair while living outside. You can't use perfume while living in the woods. I like good smelling things too, but I got tired of being attacked by mosquitoes. Obviously, mosquitoes are an issue as bites can bring viruses and infections. I don't fear mosquitoes, but I don't want them to bite me. So I had to quit using the good smelling stuff. At least for now. You can't smell like a girl while living outside. Many donated toiletries are scented and things like Dove and Spirit have flowery scents that smell good to us but also to the bugs. I don't wear makeup except on really rare occasions, but for other women living outside it is not a good idea because you can't wash your face thoroughly on a daily basis. It clogs your pores and has the possibility to create infections on your skin. Lotion is a struggle because while you might need to use it, especially in winter for dry patches of skin, bathing is less regular and once again your pores get clogged, which can lead to types of infections. In addition, nail clippers have to be replaced often as they get used regularly and get dirty without ability to properly disinfect. It's best if they are replaced every few weeks or months as clipping with dirty equipment could give you an infection. That's expensive but it's not cool to get an infection when you are living without housing. Just like getting infections, small cuts and scrapes and other things that require simple first aid are hard to take care of outdoors. You can have the cleanest tent out there and still get a cut and infection. Even the air has pollutants. Most people can get a hold of disinfecting products like hydrogen peroxide but not everyone. That makes caring for even the small the Mondragon Corporation, a collection of 257 companies, employs 74,117 workers and represents assets of 24,726-million Euros. It is the tenth largest Spanish company in terms of asset turnover and the leading corporation in the Basque Country. Barker described developments to date in Greater Cincinnati. “Our Harvest” represents an initial successful initiative. It constitutes several worker-owned farms in the Cincinnati area that produce and sell fresh natural produce. Bahr Farm is a thirty acre farm in the neighborhood of College Hill, while White Oak Farm is located on the periphery of Morrow Ohio. The goal, declared, Barker, is to injuries more difficult. Wounds take longer to heal while living at a camp than they would in an apartment or house where the wound could be washed regularly, treated and easily kept clean. When it comes to using the bathroom, areas are created far away from the tents to avoid the smell and mess as we can't flush after using the restroom. Some campers use buckets next to the tent for quick use. For lengthier bathroom trips you have to go across the camp and join the bugs and spiders with other creatures for the sake of keeping your sleeping area clean. This doesn't change even in snowstorms or the dead of night. I have a fear of spiders and that makes trips to the bathroom in the dark of night even more anxiety provoking and difficult. Waste has to be covered occasionally and new holes dug in order to keep the area as clean as possible. There are gnats everywhere. You have to do a lot more just to use the bathroom than other people do. That's why I can't wait to get into a house. Feminine hygiene is an even bigger problem. Used feminine products have to be bagged tightly and taken into the tent with me until I can find a trashcan away from the camp. Feminine products can't be disposed of in the same way toilet paper can as it may attract animals or create other issues. The items need to be removed from the campsite as soon as possible. It's also difficult to maintain hygiene during this time since I don't have the ability to bathe daily. The best scenario is getting a hold of baby wipes to stay clean but due to the cost, that isn't always possible. When trying to keep clean, laundry is also a big obstacle. I can boil water and hand wash a few items when it is warm. During cold weather, if you are lucky to have a propane heater you may be able to hang items to dry in the tent. Otherwise it is back to Ken and Carol's for laundry services. It's important to remember that the only time Ken and Carol's is open is on the weekdays so if you have a job, using a free community center becomes pretty impossible. If you have some money, dirty laundry can be taken to the laundromat, which requires bus fare and plenty of time to load bagged clothing on and off of buses and around the city. I've heard people complain because their washer and dryer keep them awake while it is running at night. Stop complaining. Give up your house for a week. I'd love to have that problem. ------------------------ Being able to take a hot shower, brush our teeth or put on deodorant is something most of us take for granted. But what if you’re homeless? Credit: Sole Moller create family sustaining jobs that are open to anyone who agrees to the coop employment practices. Our Harvest currently employs a workforce of eighteen that includes women, men, new immigrants, and workers who were formerly incarcerated. Educating people to think as owners as well as workers, she noted, is necessary as well as challenging. A workbook entitled, “The Great Game of Business,” has proved to be an effective educational tool. Our Harvest Coop experienced a break-even year in 2015, and took in approximately $500,000 in revenue. Meanwhile, Barker said that at least thirteen different groups are inter- THE VOICE OF THE STREET...UNSILENCED ested in establishing worker-coops in Greater Cincinnati. Already underway is the Apple Street Market, a worker and community owned cooperative, and a local housing cooperative. Barker pointed to the fact that unions are beginning to get involved in the coop movement, and in nearby Dayton, unions have launched the Greater Dayton Union Coop. Although she realizes that years of hard work lie ahead in establishing coops as an integral force in the country’s economy, Barker brings enthusiasm, energy, and talent to this mission. “We,” she challenged, “could transform Cincinnati!” ------------------------ �8 LOCAL Keep Our Courts: Kids First Apr 22 - May 5 , 2016 | No. 328 JEN ARENS ‘T Contributing Writer is the season for Queen City basketball blues. Maybe Xavier or UC left you devastated, or maybe you’re just a proud Cincinnatian disappointed that we couldn’t will a local team to tournament victory. But there’s good news—Cincinnati has another chance at a basketball win this season! Before we pack up our game-inspired sense of solidarity until next year’s tournament, there’s another team that needs us. For a year, a number of children and families in our city have been fighting to protect a few public basketball courts from being bulldozed by a development plan. There’s nothing grand about the courts, or the communityserving garden and greenspace that abut them, except that they are wellused and loved by good people. They sit at one corner of an otherwise vacant 76,000-square-foot, city-owned property directly across the street from Rothenberg Preparatory Academy—the only neighborhood-serving public elementary school that remains in Over-the-Rhine. And, should the city strike a pending deal with private developer NorthPointe Group, they will be destroyed in order to make way for 4 of 22 single-family homes, each costing around $500,000. These kids and families, along with a number of community advocates, have organized cookout rallies, petition signings, committee meetings, public input sessions, a demonstration at a community council meeting, a presentation at a City Council committee meeting. They have tried for a year, in vain, to meet with the developer to share their concerns for the courts, for the community garden, and for the striking lack of affordability in the housing plan that would be imposed next to a school with 99% of its children in poverty. This is not just about protesting change. These community folks have plans in their dreams too. Investors who bother to ask could help realize improved recreation space, housing across an economic mix, decent jobs for the local underemployed, and assets built to further strengthen a community school with tremendous knowledge and commitment. The community’s hard work has spurred closed-door talks of a court relocation, but not a seat at any decisionmaking table. Those of us who played sports know that there is no post-loss solace in the words, “It’s just a game.” And those of us who know these fami- Photo: Leslie Moorhead lies know even more deeply that this is not “just a court.” This is one small fight against the crushing feeling that poor folks have to lose out in order for economic wealth to be invested in their communities. This is an effort to urge someone—anyone— in city government to have enough courage to tell a private developer that our public assets and resources are not theirs for the taking. In a country crying out that “Black Lives Matter,” this is one tiny chorus of voices demanding that we not simply accommodate plans to move poor black kids out of sight so that real estate can more easily sell to the wealthy. These kids may not be in the jerseys of your alma mater, but they deserve the support of their city. Let’s all take the time we would have spent watching the Musketeers and Bearcats, and use it to lend our voices and energy to this struggle! Contact me to find out how. Jennifer Arens is a resident of Cincinnati and the Community Education Coordinator at Peaslee Neighborhood Center in Over-the-Rhine. She can be reached at Jennifer.arens@peasleecenter.org or 513-621-5514. ------------------------ OTR youth gather on the courts for a celebration of their community space and in protest of new plans for development. Photos: Leslie Moorhead THE VOICE OF THE STREET...UNSILENCED �9 WORLD Homeless people face agerelated conditions earlier than people with homes No. 328 | Apr 2 2 - M ay 5 , 2 0 1 6 KATHRYN DOYLE Reuters H ealth conditions usually seen among the elderly are more common among middle aged homeless people than older people with housing, according to a new study. Those conditions include thinking problems, visual impairment, urinary incontinence and falls, write the researchers in The Gerontologist. "I think in a sense this is a problem of severe poverty," said senior author Dr. Margot B. Kushel, of the University of California's San Francisco General Hospital. Geriatric conditions occur earlier in life for people in poverty and even earlier in life for those who are homeless, said Kushel. However, researchers didn't know how common these conditions were among homeless people, and if those rates varied by where homeless people stayed from time to time. For the new study, researchers interviewed 350 people who are homeless and aged 50 and over. The participants stayed in unsheltered locations, shelters, intermittently with family or friends, or in rental housing. Half of the group was younger than age 59. A third of the homeless group said they had suffered a fall over the past six months, a quarter had cognitive impairment, 45 percent had vision problems, and almost half screened positive for urinary incontinence, regardless of their living arrangements. These issues typically first arise for housed adults aged 75 and older, write the researchers. The homeless participants had as much or more trouble bathing, dressing and eating, using transportation, taking medications, managing money, applying for benefits, arranging a job interview and finding a lawyer as 80 year olds with housing in the general population, they found. "Some of these impairments come out because of a lifetime of poor access to healthcare, and potentially substance use disorders," Kushel said. The rate of cognitive impairment was "astonishingly high," she said. "In my mind that raises the question, did the cognitive impairment potentially lead to their homelessness," she said. But homelessness itself, and the struggles or trauma that precede it, can have physical health effects and cause old age to express earlier, said Dr. Josh Bamberger, medical director for housing and urban health at the San Francisco Department of Public Health. "One of the ways we handle geriatric conditions is we make changes to the environment, add grab bars in the A man sleeps on a seat at the Borough Hall subway station in the Brooklyn borough of New York. Credit: REUTERS/Shannon Stapleton bathroom, we light their path to the bathroom with nightlights to prevent a fall," Kushel said. "When people are in unstable environments, we can't do that." More than 40 percent of the homeless group had not been homeless before age 50. "That makes me fearful that cognitive impairment or physical limitation contributed to their homelessness," Kushel said. "It's already hard to fight an eviction notice, but if you're cognitively impaired or having difficulty walking, that only makes it harder." "What we ask them to go through to leave homelessness, that includes cognitively and physically hard things," like taking public transportation to various offices and filling out paperwork, which may be too difficult for people suffering the health problems common to 80 year olds, she said. Permanent supported housing may help prevent and treat some of these health problems, she said. "There doesn't have to be any new allocation of funding, just repurposing of funding," said Bamberger, who was not part of the new study. Most adults who become homeless first start utilizing the healthcare system more and more in emergency rooms, as inpatients or in nursing homes, he said. Repurposing those healthcare expenditures for housing has been done successfully in some U.S. cities and states, he added. "We define housing as something other than healthcare but that's purely a theoretic definition," Bamberger said. "We can define things however we wish." ------------------------ Homeless guides to show hidden side of Scotland’s capital with Invisible Edinburgh BARBARA GOLDBERG INSP.ngo / Reuters E dinburgh is second only to London when it comes to UK city breaks, so finding a new take on Scotland's capi- also worked with the Homeless World Cup and Edinburgh's social business café Social Bite. Speaking at the launch celebration earlier this month, Zakia paid tribute to the organisations that have helped her get the project off the ground - and to the tour guides who have already signed up. "It's unbelievable that we're here," she said. "It's been a team effort. I'd like to thank Crisis, The Big Issue and INSP for their work. And all my friends for their support. "Most importantly, I'd like to recognise the work of our tour guides. I am really proud of you." Invisible Edinburgh is planned to be open to the public in mid-May with be four tours to choose from. Each guide will offer a different theme - from 'Crime and Punishment' tal city might seem improbable. But inspired by Greek street paper Shedia, Invisible Edinburgh has found a way to reveal the hidden cor- ners beyond the castle and Princes Street. The unconventional project will reveal a different side to Auld Reekie by employing homeless and formerly homeless people as their tour guides. The Edinburgh project is the brainchild of Zakia Moulaoui, who has to 'Community Sport' and 'Food in the City' - but all the stories will be filtered through the tour guides' experiences of Edinburgh whilst homeless. Biffy is one of the first guides, alongside her partner Sonny. "I'm really excited. Me and my partner always joked we could be tour guides, because we're always telling people directions," she said. Her tour will be titled 'Powerful Women' and she said that the training she's been through has helped her realise that she, too, is a strong woman. "I know I'm not stupid," she added. "But I felt like I was wasting away just being in the house all the time. Now I doing something. It's amazing." Biffy became homeless following the breakdown of a previous relationship, but since she and Sonny had their daughter Charlotte, they've both man- aged to turn their lives around. "We have somewhere to stay. Life is quite good at the moment," she said. "I hope I'm going to make lots of money with the tours!" ------------------------ Invisible Edinburgh guides Sonny, Biffy and George. Credit: Zoe Greenfield THE VOICE OF THE STREET...UNSILENCED �10 LOCAL Apr 22 - May 5 , 2016 | No. 328 The Greater Cincinnati Homeless Coalition would like to thank 4EG, The Lackman and Lachey’s Bar for sponsoring the 2015 Streetvibes Music Fest at the Woodward Theater! The 2016 Day by Day calendar is now available online at http://cincihomeless.org/ THE VOICE OF THE STREET...UNSILENCED �LOCAL The Unique Role of the Navigator as Agent of Health Justice 11 No. 328 | Apr 2 2 - M ay 5 , 2 0 1 6 STEVE SUNDERLAND* 1.I ntroduction: There is agreement about the health facts facing minorities and the poor in Cincinnati: A large number of people do not have access to health resources and a significant number of people are suffering and dying as a result. Basic health information about illness when it is critical is seriously lacking for this population. Basic information about how to negotiate the health care system in a timely way is missing. Health professionals are untrained in working with minorities and the poor about both their health and non-health needs; often financial reasons are used for denying care. Most importantly, there is shoddy care coordination between the patient and the health care system and the patient and the non-health care system. In sum, the minority individual in Cincinnati faces life threatening obstacles to receiving minimal guidance in health and non-health related concerns. A navigator, placed at health centers throughout the city, or placed in social agencies that work with the poor, or based at hospitals can make a significant difference in the health outcomes for poor people. A better use of health care systems will occur if the navigator is permitted to coordinate both health and non-health related needs. People, gaining access in a timely way to the "best" health or non-health service, can reduce both mortality and the waste of the citizen's time and life. 2. The Cincinnati Health Crisis: Large numbers of minorities and low income people face a crisis in health care. Mortality rates for cancer, infant mortality, and other diseases are near or at the top of state and national surveys of poor health. In Cincinnati, the Cincinnati Health Department, Contributing Writer the Hamilton County Health Department, the Urban League "Two Cities" report, and the recent reporting of the NY Times state the same conclusion: Life expectancy for minorities and the poor are generally 15-20 year lower than majority populations. Hospitals throughout Cincinnati do not reach out to the communities with the worst statistics. The outcome is that there is dramatic increase in mortality in those communities that have hospitals located in them. Going to the emergency room in any hospital is a difficult and often scary reality for citizens who do not know if they will be accepted and/or if they have sufficient financial resources. Often, due to extreme pain, the citizen winds up in an emergency room and is treated badly. Sadly, the citizen may have to go to the emergency room because they do not know another place to go with a sick family member, or to find temporary shelter, food, or safety. Hospitals are ill-prepared for nonhealth related crisis. 3. The Cancer Example: Minorities and the poor have greater mortality than majority populations. One of the reasons is that access to information about danger signals about cancer is very limited in this population. Also, failing to follow up with timely screenings increases the likelihood of the cancer advancing to a stage that cannot be treated. Added to this is that there is not a single program in Cincinnati to reach out to the minority community with either information about cancer or a way of getting screened. Another factor is physician discomfort with minority or poor citizens when they come for cancer treatment. Research indicates that health care professionals are frustrated by not being able to understand, be understood, or by implicit and explicit stereotypes of poor citizens. 4. Navigators Increase Life Expectancy: Research on navigator programs in minority populations indicate a doubling of life expectancy due to navigator involvement with citizens at the earliest stage of their cancer. Navigators provide assistance in overcoming obstacles to getting to the screening and treatment processes. Navigators that are community based have been documented as successful in helping the citizen a) face housing, transportation, and cultural obstacles, b) find resources to solve conflicts that may prevent compliance with screening and treatment times, c) assist the citizen in understanding how the health and non-health systems work so that citizen choices about overcoming obstacles can be accepted, and d) assist with citizen's fears about taking necessary steps in both the health and non-health area. Navigators are trusted to work in both areas and need to demonstrate both competence and compassion for the difficulties facing the citizen. Being community based, well trained in finding and sharing resources, the navigator increases the possibility of successfully navigating both the health and non-health care systems. As successful as navigators can be in getting citizens to the door of a health center, a hospital, or a social agency, the citizen has then to cope with the treatment by the agencies. Too often, the fears of the citizen are met with indifference, minimal treatment or worse: unnecessary or non-existent treatment. It is clear from some of the research on navigation that the citizen must have the navigator as a team member to see just how entry and information about service is offered. Poorly educated physicians, with little cultural competence, and poor communication skills, or overwhelmed by their schedules, challenge the citizen with their abrupt and confusing behavior. The navigator can serve as another pair of eyes and ears for the citizen, helping to decode both the behaviors and the information. 5. One Model: The Cancer Justice Network (CJN): The CJN is a network of agencies that work with the poor and minorities in Cincinnati. A navigator, placed at each agency, attends community events, i.e., dinners, health fairs, training sessions, employment discussions, pantries, and other related agency based experiences. The navigator is part of a team that includes a physician, and an American Cancer Society staff member. At the event of the agency, the agency staff member will introduce the team and encourage people who would like to learn more about cancer to join a brief 15-20-minute talk. At the talk, the navigator will be introduced, cancer materials will be left, and a time for navigator-citizen connection will be set, either at that event or at a mutually agreed upon time. The navigator will meet with the citizen and discuss both health and non-health related needs that connect to the citizen at that point. A schedule for screening and/or other agency resources will be shared. Another meeting may be scheduled with the citizen and their family to discuss concerns that have recently become evident to the citizen. Cancer can be a foreboding experience for anyone, even people familiar with the health system. For people new to health care, the diagnosis of cancer may seem like a death sentence. The navigator steps into this emotional confusion with skill, compassion, and some experience with other cancer survivors. The major positive outcome of this approach is that it builds trust between the navigator and the citizen, begins the exploration of how the citizen can get their resources for either/or health or non-health concerns, and increases the probability of follow up. By being agency based, this model may have rapid access to resources for non-health related con- (Continued on page 12) Now Hiring Caracole Caracole.org - Social Work Supervisor - Case Manager - Resident Assistant Churches Active in Northside C.A.I.N. cainministries.org - Development Coordinator Cincinnati Union Bethel cinunionbethel.org - Quality and Compliance Manager - Payroll and Benefits Specialist - Special Needs Assistance - Family Service Worker - Teachers and Assistant Teachers - Cook Hamilton County Planning and Development hamiltoncountyohio. gov - Sanitarian 1/11 - Patient Registration Speacialist - Assistant Finance Officer - Water Quality Technition - Medical Receptionist Center for Chemical Addictions Treatment catsober.org - Dietary Supervisor - Assistant VP Nurse - Nurse Manager - Staff Nurse. Legal Aid Society of Greater Cincinnati lascinti.org - Administrative Assistant - Accounting Specialist - Equal Justice Worker/ THE VOICE OF THE STREET...UNSILENCED AmeriCorps Attorney Fellowship Lighthouse Youth Services lighthouse.org - Multiple openings Shelter House shelterhousecinti.org - Resident Aid - Case Manager Tender Mercies tendermerciesinc.org - Volunteer Coordinator �12 STREET VOICE The Month of February to fire his arrow but he shouldn't miss me. Oh well, maybe next time. We'll see. But as I write this it’s also black history month when the wind is cold. It couldn't have been when it's warm outside, when black people like to go outside and barbecue. Oh well. But when I think about black history I have so many different emotions. I think about how the country of Africa had slavery. So they had their own people enslaved. What was the price? I have no idea. I think about the slave ships that brought them across the whole ocean and they were packed in like sardines in a can. How many of them became shark bait? Because a lot of them didn't survive and how many were just thrown overboard because they were a bit rebellious. I don't know. I don't know how many of them were really rebellious. is a mess,” she insisted. “We’re not together. We haven’t fixed anything. But I will not lie down. I will not lie down.” Then a series of questions were posed by the moderator, UC sociologist Sarah Mayorga­ Gallo. A strange (nonetheless logical) thing happened at this point. The moderator tried to focus the questions on the specific issues raised by the “Good White People” documentary. Instead a succession of black people spoke, some were panelists and some were audience members. What came out as they addressed the audience was ANGER, huge amounts of pent-up anger, from one speaker after another. It was as if this short film had been a kind of visual emblem of the indignity and the suffering that these people and their families had endured for years, for decades, for centuries. And that sordid history was being re­ enacted once again—now—by the good white folks who were taking over the neighborhood, forcefully intruding themselves in the lives of all the “good black people” who have lived for so long on these mean streets. Of course, the “good white people” have no direct connection with the killing of Greg Tremble. But, in a manner that was absolutely clear to so many African Americans in the auditorium at St. Francis School that Saturday afternoon, those “good white people” are living representatives of a system that has been brutalizing the blacks for generations, creating an ongoing environment in which young black men have no hope, as they find themselves competing for their dangerous notion of the American Dream. Theirs is—as Reginald Stroud claimed—an impossible dream. navigator have all come into the neighborhood of the citizen and thereby indicated that the agency where they are meeting is a good place to start. 6. The Compassionate Benefits of Navigator Role: Treating people sooner for both health and non-health concerns increases survival and wellbeing. The more advanced the problem, the more complicated may be the helping process. Facing the unknowns of disease and related crisis may understandably reduce the emotional and physical capacity of a citizen. There is no one best way of facing crisis; yet, facing a health or non-health crisis with a team member, a navigator, opens the possibility of expanding the strengths of both the navigator and the citizen. Compassionate care, having the time to listen to questions or the time to hear fears being spoken, ignites the feelings of strength and solidarity. Facing hard problems with a navigator may make solutions, financial, decision making, and spiritual, more visible. Changing to a navigatorcitizen team process offers a new set of services to those in crisis. And, with these services, comes the possibility of restoring faith in human relationships that matter in terms of survival. The navigator, the more educated they are to handle knowledge about resources and personal coordination, can increase the chances of survival. LEE MCCOY Contributing Writer & Streetvibes Distributor S ometimes you have to be late for work. It can be because of a lot of things, like Valentine's Day. Cupid’s supposed JIM LUKEN (Continued from page 3) gentrification in that northernmost OTR neighborhood. “They are making a concentrated attack on our area,” she said. “We have refused to recognize the ‘Brewery District,’ because they have made no attempt to relate to my corporation.” Sparks lamented “the disjointed relationships the newcomers have with the poor people who are walking down the street.” Dorothy Darden, another longtime African American activist, noted that “Urban renewal is not a new thing. It started in the West end. Gentrification,” she continued, “is about our disconnect from one another. Cincinnati STEVE SUNDERLAND (Continued from page 11) cerns. It is likely that the citizen will trust this navigation process because the navigator is based in the agency, the navigator is prepared to talk about and help with health and non-health concerns, and the navigator is prepared to work as a partner with the citizen at the "home base" of the citizen. In effect, the physician, the cancer information specialist, and the Apr 22 - May 5 , 2016 | No. 328 (Continued on page 13) [The documentary film was entered in the recent Aspen Film Festival. In the next few weeks, it will be screened in Columbus and Bloomington, Indiana. Check this newspaper for future screenings in Cincinnati]. [Editor’s note: The Greater Cincinnati Homeless Coalition doesn’t endorse candidates.] ------------------------ ------------------------ For tickets please call (513) 381-2273 Purchase tickets online at www.cincyshakes.com AD Donated by Mark and Sue Ann Painter season sponsored by the Otto M. Budig Family Foundation THE VOICE OF THE STREET...UNSILENCED �STREET VOICE No. 328 | Apr 2 2 - M ay 5 , 2 0 1 6 LEE MCCOY (Continued from page 12) Good black slave women must’ve been the strongest people in the whole world. They were raped, their children were taken from them and sold to other slave owners. Our lives have been taken from us. Our culture, our customs, it was a lost art. All for the love of America. Some tried to escape to the north, where the dogs would chase them. Some made it, some were caught and were brought back to the slave owners. And as punishment they would cut off an ankle or put chains on them to keep them from running again. When freed slaves were getting their papers for freedom sometimes they were just lost. What was the reason they still weren't a part of America? It was a lot worse then. It was still, yes master. No sir, master. They couldn’t even drink water anywhere a white person would. Think about the people who tried to make a difference like Rosa Parks who refused to move to the back of the bus just to name a few. I think of the ones who wanted to make a difference knowing there was a lot of bullets aimed at them, but they kept on doing what they thought was right. Malcolm X had been a pimp and a robber, but once he got caught he saw a purpose, even though he was fed to believe that all white men were white devils. On a trip back to Africa he saw there were many white people who believed the same thing that he believed. Martin Luther King Jr. said not to judge people by the color of their skin. That 13 dream was real back in the day, but reality has been a nightmare to a lot of black people. I used to hear my parents say that they would never see a black president in their lifetime and they had me believing that. I also never thought I’d see that either. I wish they could’ve seen that dream come true, but I have seen their dream and mine come true. Not one time, yes twice. And still they have tried to kill him a grand total of six times. And we have our younger generation killing each other. Today you have people being killed over somethings that are silly. You have cops killing many black men and they have gotten away with it. It has come to the point where people are chanting ‘black lives matter’ but I also truly believe that all Iives do matter. One of the greatest commandments said that, “thou shalt not kill”. Look at our prison system. You can look at the system for yourself. There are more black people who are jailed than white. Tell me if I am right or wrong. I have seen the prisons myself, firsthand. I think about Medgar Evers who was in his own backyard when he was killed because he was trying to step up for equality. The Civil Rights movement’s been a long and hard battle that is still going on today. Has America started waking up or is it really what America is all about? I'm sure we all know that there are haves and the have-nots. How quickly we forget we are our brother’s keeper. Treasures Life is a treasure or life be can a jewel Life is made of choices made of win, draw or pull Looking back on my life not to mention the bridges I've burned Understanding that I do have a choice which way my life will be turned Having this knowledge, I wonder what changes could I have made in my life Seeing my past and believing in God knowing with him there will be no strife Treasures of recognizing my past and always asking would I have changed to be younger or right Treasures are things I cherish from childhood up to date, anything else is out of sight Knowledge of my past and in the belief of a change which would come with a new day Having lived and grew into who I am right now, question: "who are you?" ANSWER I SAY!! Treasures to me are things of the past that I have memory of, where making changes is too late Treasures, my belief in God and to know with faith his love and grace is forever great! WILLA DENISE JONES Streetvibes Distributor & Contributing Writer ------------------------ Escape Escape to a special place where you can be free Escape to a quiet place with good thoughts Escape from all your worries and all you have lost Escape from your everyday tasks Relax, close your eyes, sit down, lift up your feet Enjoy the warmth of the sun upon your face today And float away Escape, get away even if it’s only for a day KIM GREEN Streetvibes Distributor & Contributing Writer The Secret of Getting Press Coverage Holy smoke and great merciful heaven, Trump gets headlines twenty-four seven. No matter what time I turn on the news, There is "The Donald" spewing his views. It just goes to show if you rant to excess, You're bound to get a lot of free press. BILL WOODS Contributing Writer THE VOICE OF THE STREET...UNSILENCED �14 PUZZLES Apr 22 - May 5 , 2016 | No. 328 CROSSWORD PUZZLE NO. 97 Across 1. Yore 5. Curved masonry construction 9. River duck 13. Horrible looking 14. Uncommon 15. Impressive display 17. Snare 18. Leg joint 19. Saltwater 20. Religious doctrine 22. Seaweed 24. Betting ratio 25. Up to now 26. Shout 28. Paddle 30. Large woody plant 31. Written record of events 32. Summit 35. Security group 38. Wan 39. Vine with evergreen leaves 40. Not present 41. Gratuity 42. A great distance 43. Annoy 44. Male red deer 46. Smother 48. Cereal grass seed 49. Sense organ 50. Ale 51. Jinx 52. Singe 53. Perform 56. Reverberate 59. Scintilla 61. Lesser in scope or effect 63. Mentally responsive 65. Ceremonial staff 67. Wander 68. Pester 69. Metallic element 70. Notion 71. Liberate 72. Look after 73. Transmitted Down 1. Used to secure panes of glass 2. Concur 3. Angle 4. Variety 5. Biblical boat 6. Make resentful or angry 7. Wicker fish basket 8. Part of a shoe 9. Restaurant bill 10. Mistake 11. Desiccated 12. Bring ashore 16. Affirmative 21. Novice 23. Consortium 27. Fish 29. Historic period 30. Attempt 31. Circuit 32. Petty quarrel 33. Ellipse 34. Funeral mound 35. Brace 36. Askew 37. Receive something given 38. Domestic swine 41. Seaman 42. Atmosphere 44. Understand 45. Cab 46. Large body of water 47. Limited period of time 50. Lighthouse 51. Gymnastic apparatus 52. Gaze 53. Positively charged electrode 54. Gathering of witches 55. Delicacy 56. Consume 57. Musical notation written on a staff 58. Take heed 60. Leave out 62. Part of the eye 64. Golf peg 66. Conclusion SODOKU PUZZLE NO 227 - MEDIUM PUZZLE SOLUTIONS ISSUE 327 CROSSWORD PUZZLE NO. 96 SODOKU PUZZLE NO 226 - MEDIUM PUZZLES from puzzlechoice.com and puzzles.ca THE VOICE OF THE STREET...UNSILENCED �RESOURCES No. 328 | Apr 2 2 - M ay 5 , 2 0 1 6 Shelter: Women and Children Central Access Point 381-SAFE Bethany House 557-2873 1841 Fairmount Ave, Cinti, Ohio 45214 The Esther Marie Hatton Center for Women 2499 Reading Road, Cinti, OH 562-1980 Grace Place Catholic Worker House 681-2365 6037 Cary Ave, Cinti, Ohio 45224 Mercy Franciscan at St. John 15 OTR/Walnut Hills Kitchen & Pantry 961-1983 OTR: 1620 Vine Street, Cinti, Ohio 45202 Walnut Hills: 2631 Gilbert, Cinti, Ohio 45206 Our Daily Bread 621-6364 St. Francis Soup Kitchen 535-2719 Churches Active in Northside 591-2246 4230 Hamilton Ave, Cinti, Ohio 45223 981-5800 FreeStore/FoodBank 241-1064 Salvation Army 762-5660 Madisonville Ed & Assistance Center 271-5501 112 E. Liberty Street, Cinti, Ohio 45202 131 E. 12th Street, Cinti, Ohio 45202 4600 Erie Ave, Cinti, Ohio 45227 Serves area codes: 45226, 45227, 45208, 45209 YWCA Battered Women’s Shelter 872-9259 St. Vincent de Paul 562-8841 Shelter: Men 1125 Bank Street, Cinti, Ohio 45214 City Gospel Mission 241-5525 Treatment or Supportive Recovery: Men 1805 Dalton Avenue, Cinti, OH 45214 Shelterhouse 721-0643 Charlie’s 3/4 House 784-1853 411 Gest St. Cinti, Ohio 45203 2121 Vine Street, Cinti, Ohio 45202 St. Fran/St. Joe Catholic Work. House 381-4941 Prospect House 921-1613 1437 Walnut Street, Cinti, Ohio 45202 Parkway Center 661-4620 682 Hawthorne Ave, Cinti, Ohio 45205 Starting Over 961-2256 Shelter: Both Treatment or Supportive Recovery: Women Lighthouse on Highland (18-24 y/o) 2522 Highland Ave Cincinnati, OH 45219 569-9500 Caracole (HIV/AIDS) 761-1480 First Step Home 961-4663 2203 Fulton, Cinti, Ohio 45206 Treatment or Supportive Recovery: Both 1821 Summit Road, Cinti, Ohio 45237 Interfaith Hospitality Network 471-1100 Lighthouse Youth Crisis Center (10-17 y/o) 3330 Jefferson Ave Cincinnati, OH 45220 961-4080 AA Hotline 351-0422 CCAT 381-6672 830 Ezzard Charles Dr. Cinti, Ohio 45214 Joseph House (Veterans) 241-2965 1522 Republic Street, Cinti, Ohio 45202 Housing: CMHA 721-4580 Excel Development 632-7149 OTR Community Housing 381-1171 114 W. 14th Street, Cinti, Ohio 45202 Talbert House 221-HELP Tender Mercies 721-8666 27 W. 12th Street, Cinti, Ohio 45202 Tom Geiger House 961-4555 Volunteers of America 381-1954 Anna Louise Inn 421-5211 Hamilton County Mental Health and Recovery Services Board 946-8000 Recovery Health Access Center 281-7422 Sober Living 681-0324 Talbert House 221-HELP Advocacy Catholic Social Action 421-3131 Community Action Agency 569-1840 Contact Center 381-4242 1227 Vine Street, Cinti, Ohio 45202 Franciscan JPIC 721-4700 Gr. Cinti Coalition for the Homeless 421-7803 2401-, 2411 Reading Rd, Cinti, Ohio 45202 Cincinnati Union Bethel 768-6907 2401 Reading Road, Cinti, Ohio 45202 117 E. 12th Street, Cinti, Ohio 45202 Legal Aid Society 241-9400 Ohio Justice & Policy Center 421-1108 Faces Without Places 363-3300 Stop AIDS 421-2437 Food/Clothing First Lutheran Church 421-0065 1208 Race St. Food - Last Monday 12-1 Clothing - second Monday 12-1 Lord’s Pantry 621-5300 Mercy Franciscan at St. John 981-5800 Health Center for Respite Care 621-1868 3550 Washington Ave, Cinti, Ohio 45229 1800 Logan St. Cinti, Ohio 45202 $100 for 26 issues 961-0600 2825 Burnet Avenue, Cincinnati, OH 45219 1730 Race Street, Cinti, Ohio 45202 1800 Logan St. Cinti, Ohio 45202 Cincinnati Health Network $150 THE VOICE OF THE STREET...UNSILENCED Crossroad Health Center 381-2247 5 E. Liberty St. Cinti, Ohio 45202 Health Resource Center 357-4602 McMicken Integrated Care Clinic and Mobile Medical Van 40 E. McMicken Ave, Cinti, Ohio 352-6364 McMicken Dental Clinic 40 E. McMicken Ave, Cinti 352-6363 Mental Health Access Point 558-8888 Mercy Franciscan at St. John 981-5800 1800 Logan St. Cinti, Ohio 45202 NAMI of Hamilton County 351-3500 PATH Outreach 977-4489 Other Resources Center Independent Living Options 241-2600 Emmanuel Community Center 241-2563 1308 Race St. Cinti, Ohio 45202 Peaslee Neighborhood Center 621-5514 215 E. 14th Street, Cincinnati, OH 45202 Franciscan Haircuts from the Heart 381-0111 1800 Logan St. Cinti, Ohio 45202 Goodwill industries 771-4800 Healing Connections 751-0600 Intercommunity Justice & Peace Cr. 579-8547 Mary Magdalen House 721-4811 1223 Main St. Cinti, Ohio 45202 People Working Cooperatively 351-7921 The Caring Place 631-1114 Talbert House 751-7747 United Way 211 Women Helping Women 977-5541 Off The Streets 421-5211 Hamilton/Middletown St. Raephaels 981-4200 Salvation Army 863-1445 Serenity House Day Center 422-8555 Open Door Pantry 868-3276 Northern Kentucky Brighton Center 799 Ann St. Newport, KY ECHO/Hosea House Fairhaven Resuce Mission Homeward Bound Youth Mathews House Homeless & Housing Coalition Parish Kitchen Pike St. Clinic Transitions, Inc Welcome House of NKY 205 West Pike Street, Covington, KY 41011 Women’s Crisis Center VA Domiciliary VA Homeless for 26 issues and a $50 donation 859-491-8303 859-261-5857 859-491-1027 859-581-1111 859-261-8009 859-727-0926 859-581-7745 859-291-9321 859-491-4435 859-431-8717 859-491-3335 859-559-5011 859-572-6226 �16 S Apr 22 - May 5 , 2016 | No. 328 treetvibes is distributed by individuals who purchase the paper for 75 cents per copy and sell it for a $2.00 donation, keeping the profit they have earned. Becoming a Distributor is a great way for individuals who are financially poor to get back on (or stay on) their feet. This program provides supplemental income for those unable to secure other employment. Money earned helps meet basic housing, food and health care needs. The program is a hand up for people who are often in a place of getting only a hand out, or even no hand at all. All Distributors wear a badge and usually a vest and can be found selling the paper in Downtown Cincinnati, Clifton, Northside, Northern Kentucky and at area churches. ALMA SIMS SINCE 5/2014 ALFRED WOOLFOLK SINCE 10/2003 ASRES AYENAW SINCE 2012 BELINDA CHERRY SINCE 8/2015 BERTA LAMBERT SINCE 1997 BRANDON NELSON SINCE 4/2008 CRANDALL COBB SINCE 2004 DEBORAH POINDEXTER SINCE 9/2012 DONALD YOUNG ELMORE MORRIS SINCE 5/2014 GINA MARTIN GRADY COOK SINCE 1997 GREGORY RAY SINCE 4/2015 JAMES BROWN SINCE 3/2009 JAMES DAVIS SINCE 8/2003 JIMMIE GIPSON SINCE 2001 JONATHAN SLATER SINCE 5/2014 JOHN GAINES SINCE 12/2009 KAREN COLLETTE SINCE 7/2008 KEITH EUTSEY SINCE 2/2011 JOHN HORN JOSEPHINE BASKERVILLE SINCE 9/2008 J’TORI TYMAN SINCE 5/2014 W. KENNETH BUSSELL SINCE 10/2009 LARRY FILES SINCE 6/2012 LARRY BROWN SINCE 10/2007 LEE MCCOY SINCE 7/2009 LEONARD JACKSON SINCE 2/2005 MAXINE GRANT SINCE 4/2015 MEACO WAITE MELISSA MOSBY SINCE 9/2014 MICHAEL BEHYMER QUEENACELESTINE LEVY RAESHAWN GIPSON SINCE 3/2009 RAYNARD JONES SINCE 10/2008 RICKY WOODS SINCE 4/2015 RICCARDO TAYLOR SINCE 2001 RONNIE PHILLIPS SINCE 10/2009 TARA HILL SINCE 4/2014 TIA CASS SINCE 11/2007 TINA SINCE 4/2015 TODD HANLEY SINCE 5/2014 TONY THOMAS SINCE 3/2005 VICTOR MUMPHRY LOTTIE MANNER MIKE CARANO SINCE 4/2016 CLEO WOMBLES SINCE 10/2003 CRAIG SMITH SINCE 5/2014 GLENDA CANTRELL GREGORY WILSON SINCE 1/2012 JON DARBY SINCE 2/2006 JOHNNY KERNS SINCE 9/2012 KIM GREEN SINCE 1/2010 KRISTINE HOFSKY SINCE 3/2015 MARY MUELLER SINCE 5/2005 MARK SHEARS SINCE 4/2016 MAURICE GOLSBY MYRA WILSON NEBRASKA SINCE 3/2015 PERVIS MENTON SINCE 8/2015 WILLIAM SIMMS SINCE 4/2014 THE VOICE OF THE STREET...UNSILENCED SAMUEL JACKSON SINCE 10/2006 WILLA JONES SINCE 1/2010 TALINA HILL SINCE 2/2015 WILLIAM BURDINE SINCE 8/2009 � Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource 2016 Text A resource consisting primarily of words for reading. Examples include books, letters, dissertations, poems, newspapers, articles, archives of mailing lists. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre Text. Original Format The type of object, such as painting, sculpture, paper, photo, and additional data Newspaper Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource April 22-May 5, 2016 Subject The topic of the resource Homelessness Description An account of the resource Pg 1: Cover Page Pg 2: From the Director Are We Really Serious About addressing Poverty? Pg 3: A Death in the Hood Pg 4: Panama Papers, Free Trade, and the Poor Pg 5: Pay It Forward Pg 6: Fear Overtakes Common Sense in Rise of “Bathroom Bills” Pg 7: Nashville Vendor Explains Challenges to Personal Hygiene While Homeless Pg 8: Keep Our Courts Pg 9: Homeless People face Age-Related Conditions Earlier Than People with Homes Pg 10: GCHC Pg 11: The Unique Role of the Navigator as Agent of Health Justice Pg 12: The Month of February Pg 13: Street Voice Pg 14: Puzzles Pg 15: Resources Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Streetvibes Archive Project Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Streetvibes Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Greater Cincinnati Homeless Coalition Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource April 22-May 5, 2016 Contributor An entity responsible for making contributions to the resource Josh Spring Bill Woods Jim Luken Michael Earl Patton Dr. Mark Mussman Hannah Ramlo Peter Kobak Jen Arens Steve Sunderland Lee McCoy Kim Green Will Denise Jones Justin Jeffre John Bealle Leslie Moorhead Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Newspaper Bill Woods Dr. Mark Mussman Edinburgh February Free Trade Hannah Ramlo Jen Arens Jim Luken John Bealle Josh Spring Justin Jeffre Kim Green Lee McCoy Leslie Moorhead Michael Earl Patton Nashville Panama Papers Park + Vine Peter Kobak poverty Scotland Steve Sunderland Will Denise Jones