Kollision Con: Where People Come Together For A Common Purpose

Zack's TV   hit the trifecta as we attended our 3rd Anime Convention of the year. What made this different from the others, it not only brought anime fans together again, but it also reunited a popular indie band. It also had the smallest setting as well as had unique activities, guests, and even vendors.
Click on the captions below the pictures to see the full interviews on Chatter Box.

Convention attendees taking the time to take pictures with Z City

Equilibrium is sending the proceeds of the sales of any of these bags to help

 the victims of the super typhoon that hit the Phillipines

Activities
Like the previous conventions we've attended this year, there were many unique panels. One of the ones that stood out was the acting and improv class taught by none other than Chuck Huber. We first met him back at Anime Midwest, and here at this convention, he answered questions about his acting and voice acting background, and also had exercises in teaching people how to get over their fear of public speaking as well as improvised acting.
It was at this convention I took the time to attempt to run a panel. This panel centered around the anime "Mirai Nikki" otherwise known as "Future Diary". The discussion focused on the moral implications on how far would you go and what you would do to be given a chance to become a god (although limited) of the world to shape the world in your own way.
There were also many other activity, discussion, and Q&A panels. One of those Q&A panels brought us the return of The Adventures of Duane and BrandO. Speaking of which...

Guests
We've already mentioned Chuck Huber. Russell Lissau who was the writer for the "Batman Strikes" comic book series for DC Comics gave us the insight on working for a major comic book company like DC, and especially writing the story lines for one of the most iconic superheros ever. Richard Horvitz gave fans a chance to speak to the voice of the original English speaking Alpha 5 from the Mighty Morphin' Power Rangers.

One of the most key guests were the band The Adventures of Duane and BrandO. This band is most known for taking the musical themes from video games and arranging them to a rock/rap hybrid style similar to that of the Beastie Boys. A few years prior, the band had broken up and their last performance was in Chicago. At Kollision Con, the band performed for the first time since reuniting. A lot of their music can be heard YouTube, however listener discretion is advised.

Vendors
The Vendors Area again pales in comparison to ACen, which also meant it was a more intimate atmosphere. One vendor that stood out was Equilibrium USG. We spoke with their founder and learned more about their company as well as their plan to help those in need overseas. They also gave us insight into attending conventions as a vendor.


All in all, this convention was fun and very intimate. This was their 4th year and they will be celebrating their 5th year anniversary in a big way. They will move their convention down the street to the anime convention friendly Hyatt Regency just off the Rosemont Blue Line, and instead of holding their convention in November, they will postpone it to January 2-4, 2015.

Hopefully you'll give this convention a chance, especially if you miss out on the major summer convention events. 

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Veteran Actor Jacques C. Smith Stays Humble in Hollywood: 'I Don't Consider Myself A Celebrity.'

For actor Jacques C. Smith, Hollywood is his home but Chicago's where his heart is. 

A proud native of Harvey, IL, Jacques was always a star in academics as a student at Thornton High School. He graduated third in his class and eventually earned degrees from Princeton University and the University of California, San Diego.

One of his biggest breaks was landing the role of Benny in the hit Broadway play, 'Rent' -- which catapulted his career in theater, television, and film.

Now, Jacques plays "Juror No. 5" in "12 Angry Men" at the Pasadena Playhouse. (Running  November 5 until December 1.)  In this version, director Sheldon Epps features a cast of six white men and six black men and draws upon the inspiration of the Trayvon Martin case.  


Behind the Scenes of TWELVE ANGRY MEN - The Pasadena Playhouse from Pasadena Playhouse on Vimeo.

Being a true master of time management, Jacques took "a few moments" from his busy schedule to answer questions from Zack 's TV about his career, his "dream project," and how he stays working in such a tough business. 

Every actor has a story. If you could tell the story of Jacques C. Smith in a quick movie-style synopsis, what would it be?

That's a tough question. I would say it would have to be a love story or a romantic comedy with acting being the secret love or love from the past that continues to have a strong pull on me and eventually wins. Although I began to do theater in high school, it was never an option I considered as a career. Even when I went to Princeton, I initially thought I'd be an engineer. I switched to a more liberal arts major but still not with the idea of pursuing a career in the performing arts. I sang and acted in college because I loved it or enjoyed it, but, once again, didn't think it would be my career.

By the end of college, I had decided to study that eventually I would apply to graduate acting programs. That's evidence of the academic in me who still wanted more school to verify my skill set and solidify it was the career avenue I wanted to travel. I eventually enrolled at University of California, San Diego to get my M.F.A. in acting. I've been doing it ever since. While I had always enjoyed performing, it just seems like it took hold and wouldn't let go even when I thought I'd do something else.

When did your professional acting career officially begin? Who were your role models?

The first time I was paid to perform was when I did a production of "The Meeting" at Illinois Theater Center. However, I would probably consider the beginning of my professional acting career to be a production of the Moliere play "School for Wives" at the La Jolla Playhouse. It was the show that allowed me to become a member of Actor's Equity (the union for professional stage actors).

My early role models were my older brothers who I saw doing theater when they were in high school. If I hadn't seem them, I probably would have chosen another extra-curricular activity - which would have subsequently led me down another career path. 

As an aspiring African-American actor in the early 90's, Denzel Washington was definitely a role model. Another role model of mine was Courtney B. Vance; he's still one of my favorites.

Many critics of celebrities from Chicago feel that they aren't doing enough to "give back." Do you feel that you do enough?

I don't consider myself a celebrity but I try to give back when I can. After I graduated from Princeton and before I went to UCSD, I taught high school at Thornridge High School in Dolton, IL because I wanted to "give back."  I felt it was important for the students in my neighborhood to see young positive African-American role models. I am still in contact with some of the students I taught.
 

Since I'm not in Chicago as much now, one of the things I used to do here in L.A. was tutor school age children. I always feel like I could do more though.

What can African-American actors do to overcome typecasting or stereotypes in Hollywood? Should they play along or turn down roles?

One of the easiest things to do is to create your own content. For example, the work I did on Issa Rae's "The Choir" [a new drama/comedy web series] was so fulfilling because of the fact that there were so many African-Americans involved in the creation and production of that series.
 

While creating your own content allows you to control images, the reality is most actors don't have a platform from which they can reach a substantial audience. Therefore, in order to craft a career or make a living, you have to be a part of the larger entertainment industry which at various times typecasts or stereotypes various people. With every opportunity, an actor should understand how his/her role fits into the larger entertainment spectrum.

Whether a role is stereotypical or not, an actor should always have the freedom to turn down any role that makes him or her uncomfortable (for whatever reason). We have to be able to live with ourselves, the decisions we make, and the images we present.

If you could put together a film project with an unlimited budget, what would the film be about?

Wow! Because there are so many elements that go into film making, an unlimited budget almost makes the question tougher to answer. I'd love to have ground breaking special effects (i.e. Avatar, Titanic, etc.). However, I love movies based on actual events too. So creating an entirely accurate portrayal of a not often examined period or person in history would be fascinating too(W.E.B. Dubois vs. Booker T. Washington, Marcus Garvey, etc.). In any case, the story would have to be compelling. I think it also goes without saying that I'd be starring in it too.

How has your family upbringing shaped your professional life?

My parents are tremendous role models who instilled in me a love of God, self, and a strong sense of hard work. All of these elements have been fundamental in every step I've made in my career. It's important to have a strong foundation in this industry - in any industry, but particularly here - because the critiques and scrutiny we often receive appears personal. Therefore, it can have a negative effect on one's psyche or outlook if too much weight is given to others rather than yourself. No one's self worth should be tied to an audition or job that he/she gets or doesn't get.

How can fans stay in touch with you? Do you have any shout outs?

Right now, the best way to stay in touch is on Twitter. I am a late comer to Twitter but they can follow me @jacquescsmith. I'll keep them updated on what's occurring and they can see how I'm still rooting for my Chicago sports teams while I'm in L.A. 

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Startup Institute Targets Unique Group: Small Biz Employees

Without employees, most would say that a small business is just a sole proprietorship. 

For Brent Williams, new employees of small businesses--in the startup phase-- represent a business opportunity. 

Williams, the program manager of Startup Institute, spoke to Blackline Review   about the services that the organization provides. 

"We're focused on developing individuals," he says. "..Then the individual is in a better position to find a good match with a culture for them."

Registration closed last Sunday and classes begin in 2 weeks.

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Remembering A Chicago Hero, Ms. Sharon "Boo" Evans

One of the reasons why I became a journalist was to be a voice for the people who really matter. And after a family friend was buried today, I began thinking about how a person's life can inspire others even after they pass on.

Ms. Sharon "Boo" Evans was that family friend to us and countless others. For countless years, she served her Chicago community of Washington Park and the congregation of The Greater Metropolitan Missionary Baptist Church-- a place where her family and my family began our longstanding friendship.

And according to scripture, the service Ms. Boo gave is what made her great in our eyes. In fact, the spirit of community service which she exhibited could be considered a familial trait. She worked with her sister, Condena "Connie" White, and their late mother, Mrs. Doris Evans who passed last year, in various capacities at Greater Metropolitan Church. The two sisters were ushers who also assisted their mother with feeding the community. 

Yet, Ms. Boo never received a key to the city or a spot on the evening news. She was just a regular Chicagoan who did some very incredible things for people.

Today, my family learned that Ms. Boo was a mother to more than just her son Demonte and daughter Katrina; she was a mother to young people in the community looking for a sense of family. She provided babysitting for working parents with children and gave some a place to stay who had fallen on hard times. 

And she never did it for any acclaim. 

That is what I admire about people who serve; they give freely excepting nothing in return. 

This is why I am proud to give back to her by keeping her memory alive on this blog.

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Goodman Theatre's 'Pullman Porter Blues' Moves Through History With Poignant Stories And Songs of Hope

I have a confession to make: I am not a huge fan of period dramas. For me, it feels like the artistic community is stuck in the past and not willing to embrace the present. 

But there's a new play in Chicago that does a wonderful job connecting the past with the present. 

E. Faye Butler (left) and Larry Marshall (right) jam in 'Pullman Porter Blues.' (Courtesy: Goodman Theatre)

"Pullman Porter Blues" (which opens tonight at The Goodman Theatre) is a tribute to the African-American porters who cared for passengers in some of America's most turbulent times. Written by Chicago's own Cheryl R. West, the 2 hour-40 minute play moves just like the trains that those porters rode on: at a steady pace with very few stops. 

The story is centered around three generations of porters: Monroe Sykes (Larry Marshall), an elderly veteran of the rails; Sylvester Sykes (Cleavant Derricks), the defiant and overbearing son of Monroe; and Cephas Sykes (newcomer Tosin M0rohunfola), the people-pleasing and uptight collegiate son of Sylvester/ grandson of Monroe. 

And there are a couple of ladies joining them on their journey—both invited and unexpected. Chicago theater favorite E. Faye Butler plays Sister Juba in one of her most dramatic roles yet. And another newcomer, Claire Kander, undergoes an amazing transformation as Lutie —an unkempt vagrant who develops a risky interracial friendship with Cephas.

Overall, "Pullman Porter Blues" is a delightful theatrical time capsule which helps the audience draw parallels between history and the present day. While some elements seem unbelievable — like Cephas and Lutie's having a long conversation out in the open on the train's roof— there are plenty of relateable scenarios that will bring a few tears for those willing to be vulnerable with their emotions. 

"Pullman Porter Blues" runs until October 20. 

Click here for more information. 

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Without This Bill, U.S. Consumers Might Miss A Few Meals

September 30 is a crucial date for a majority of Americans: it marks the expiration of the Food, Farm, and Jobs Bill— better known as "The Farm Bill." 

In simple terms, The Farm Bill helps farmers supply food at reasonable prices to consumers and has funded the SNAP program for needy mothers and children. While almost 46,000 Americans receive an average of $133 in SNAP benefits per month, the Farm Bill—which is renewed every five years—has a few changes that has caused some alarm with health advocates, politicians, and community activists. 

Mrs. Monica Brown Moss— a health advocate in Chicago—is pushing for more constituents to become knowledgeable about what is at stake.  As the wife of Trinity United Church of Christ pastor Otis Moss III, she works to engage the congregation and residents of the surrounding community in dialogues about important issues.

In a recent interview, Mrs. Moss shared with Empowering Voices host Rev. Joan Harrell some surprising information about how the new version of the Farm Bill will affect children. "We need to make sure that we are feeding people here on the South Side of Chicago," she said. "One out of every six children in the city of Chicago is 'food insecure' —that means that they don't know where their next meal is coming from."

For more information, check out this report from CRI TV about the Farm Bill.

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Art Imitates Life In J.Cole's Poignant 'Crooked Smile' Video

Even at 6 foot 3, rapper J.Cole admits to physical imperfections which make him self-conscious.

In fact, he opens up about his "crooked smile" in the latest single (of the same name) from his album, Born Sinner. 

Today, he released a music video for the song with imagery inspired by a real-life tragedy involving 7-year-old Aiyana Jones who was killed in a 2010 raid of her father's home by Detroit police. 


The video's inspiration presumably comes from the recent mistrial of the officer accused in Aiyana's death.   

In the final moments of the video, J. Cole offers a tribute and plea: "For Aiyana Stanley-Jones..And Please Reconsider Your War On Drugs." 

According to Innocent Down,  there have been at least 2 innocent victims shot to death by police each month in the past year. 

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Web Is The 'New TV' : TV Networks Adapt With Caution

In today's television landscape, series producers have gone from having network executives flipping past their ideas to having their "hands on the remote." 

As the title of a recent Wall Street Journal article states, it is a seller's market for original programming. In the past, producers had to pray that their pitches for new shows were accepted by networks. Now, they can distribute their own programs online or partner with Netflix. 

From the Emmy-winning "House of Cards" to "Orange Is The New Black," Netflix has become the online destination for original programming. Viewers can watch the entire season at their own pace instead of waiting a week for the next episode. 

But for those unable (or unwilling) to pay 8 bucks a month, YouTube has become the hub for ad-supported, independent produced programming. 

One show gaining popularity online is Stacey Muhammad's "For Colored Boys" starring Rob Morgan and Julito McCullum. The show's executive producers include actor Isaiah Washington and educator Marc Lamont Hill and it is building buzz through various channels of social media.



In addition to YouTube, Vimeo and Blip also offer high-quality video for viewers looking for quality programming.

But independent producers who choose online outlets take on the difficult task of building their own audience. Television networks have become household names and attract millions of viewers using contemporary tactics and marketing teams. For a small production company, the task of integrating a marketing plan with a production schedule could prove to be more challenging than expected. 

One thing's for sure: the television industry is experiencing a cliffhanger of its own right now. 

To Be Continued...

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In 'Don Jon,' Joseph Gordon Levitt Explores Relationships & Media Imagery

Would you believe it if you knew that your perception on what you look for in a significant other may be heavily influenced by media? The film "Don Jon" is a film that gives us a closer look at our possible misconceptions about relationships.

One of the things that is noticeable in film is how relationships are depicted. At times it's cliche and depicts something that is not at all common in the real world, especially with the happy endings. Other times films, whether intentional or not, still have a trouble in exploring relationships that are different. Films still have a difficulty with interracial relationships, homosexual relationships are still taboo, and in rom-coms, there are always those few formulas that always films always follow, which are different than what is out there in the real world whether we agree with any of them or not.

At the heart of the film, the key issues are Don Jon's (played by Joseph Gordon-Levitt) inability to reach a fulfillment of intimacy with any of the women he meets because he feels that pornography films are more true and closer to what he's looking for than the real thing. Barbara (played by Scarlett Johansson) feels that the right guy for her are the guys she sees in romance films who stereotypically not only fall in love with the woman they are attracted to, but they seem to give up everything unconditionally for her. In other words, it's all about the "perfect" man. This male character may even be flawed or rough around the edges, but then are transformed in some way to fit the woman's needs. In the real world, relationships are about compromise and adapting. Some relationships fail, some succeed. Some find the one, others keep searching through candidates maybe even their whole life.

*Check out our Movie Review* 


However, in film that is not the case. At times, romance stories evolve over a short amount of time and then here is the perfect relationship and they lived Happily Ever After. Disney is notorious for this. How many times though do we see relationships struggle through all the ups and the major downs of their relationships especially through the compromise?

Joseph Gordon-Levitt has been in another film that gives us a very different out look and outcome of the romantic interactions between the protagonist and his love interest in "500 Days of Summer". Joseph Gordon-Levitt makes an interesting yet bold commentary about how media influences are ideas for relationships through his Directorial Debut film "Don Jon".

"Don Jon" hits theaters on September 27.

~ Ian Noel Camilotes, Entertainment Editor 

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Do You Have What It Takes To Be A Trader?

In this changing job market, many job seekers (and currently employed workers) are responding by changing jobs. 

In this first installment of "Zack's TV Career Changers," we will take a look at how the trading industry is offers a fast pace (and sometimes stressful) alternative for workers who want more money and control over their lives. 

On YouTube, there are countless documentaries and reality shows that can help acclimate the entry-level trader with the world of finance. One example is the BBC series "Million Dollar Traders"--which features "eight ordinary people" with no experience receiving the ultimate crash course in trading from fund manager Lex Van Dam. From there, the group of novices compete to be the last one standing after two months. 

But there is more to trading than watching a YouTube video. 

Every aspiring trader needs to find a mentor. However, a lot of the best mentors are the busiest ones. In turn, retired traders or college professors could provide the advice newcomers need about how to get started.

When all else fails, search engines are your friends.

Good luck!  

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For Chicago's Mendachic Club, Mental Health Is Global Issue

CHICAGO- They danced to V.I.C.'s catchy line dance song "Wobble" song to burn some calories after enjoying some delicious Asian cuisine. But this was no ordinary banquet: these guests were gathered to raise money and awareness for mental health in the Philippines.

Last week, The Mental-Mandaluyong Club--better known as Mendachic Club-- held its 46th Annual Dinner Dance.  In 1968, the group was founded in Chicago to coordinate efforts for financial support of the Philippine National Mental Hospital in Mandaluyong, Manila in the Philippines--a place where many of the charter members worked. Over the years, the group has had 14 Presidents--most of whom are still alive today. Out of all the group's fundraising events, the most popular and longstanding one is their Annual Dinner Dance. 

At the Dinner Dance, there were activities including a raffle, song performances by some of its most talented members, and the crowning of Miss Mendachic Muse. Yet, the Mendachic Club offers more than just recreation for its members and supporters. The group works to apprise the public about why more money is needed for research and support services for the mental health community in the Philippines.

In October 2010, a convicted killer fatally stabbed school children in the Phillipines. According to witness accounts, the man appeared to be mentally disturbed. While no other events of that nature have transpired since then, mental health experts in the Philippines are always vigilant in the efforts to stop tragedies before they occur.

As World Mental Health Day approaches in October, mental health advocates are working to boost awareness in areas where it is needed most. In the Philippines, one of the leading advocacy organizations has been PMHA (Philippine Mental Health Association). As a member organization of the World Federation for Mental Health, PMHA offers programs and services to inform the public about important issues with mental health.  

As the Mendachic Club approaches its 50th Annual Dinner Dance in 2017, there will be more events to promote more awareness for the global epidemic of mental illness. 

* Zack Isaacs & Ian Camilotes contributed to this report* 

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Anime's New Appeal To Diverse Audiences

For those who've never heard of it, "anime" sounds like Tina Turner's real name; but the true fans of the art form know that it appeals to more than just nerdy suburban kids.

In fact, the anime culture extends beyond Japan and has a global influence which crosses over into hip hop music and urban-themed productions such as Aaron McGruder's "The Boondocks" (a popular comic strip-turned-animated series.)

Yet, there still have been online debates about whether the anime culture excludes people of color. 

At Anime Midwest, Zack's TV found a diverse group of anime enthusiasts: team members of ThatGuyWithTheGlasses.com. 
The popular website is the self-proclaimed "home of 5 second movies" and a "nostalgia critic" and it includes a variety of content from its very large team of contributors.

For the past three years, Anime Midwest has become "the spot" for anime lovers to meet up and check out the best talent and brightest minds in the industry.

Click on the links below for more on Anime Midwest.

If you want to attend the event next year, go to www.animemidwest.com for more details.

~ Zack The Producer   contributed to this report.
(Special thanks to ETA Carinae Productions for the photography services provided.) 

Click on the photo to view the video article about Anime Midwest

Chatter Box interview segments (Chatter Box is syndicated by Zack's TV)
*Although the interview videos have been posted in a particular order, they are not listed in order below.

Interview with some of the Anime Midwest team: Part 1, Part 2, Part 3

Interview with Chuck Huber: Hiei from YuYu Hakusho

Interview with some of the members from ThatGuyWithTheGlasses.com: Part 1, Part 2

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Anime Central Keeps Chicago Tourism Going

It was indeed a "Sweet 16" Celebration at the Anime Central event in Rosemont, IL from May 17 to 19 at the O'Hare Hyatt Regency.
According to the official website, Anime Central is the "largest anime, manga, and Japanese popular culture event" of the Midwest.  With an average attendance of 5,000, the event draws a multitude of fans who come to Chicago each year to meet their favorite personalities in gaming and cinema. 

Zack's TV was on hand to capture moments from the festivities including this year's ACen Doujinshi winner; Walter Ruyeras and main stage chalk artist Eric Maruscak.

Voice actor Sonny Strait, new upcoming J-Pop sensation Yukino, and Orlando from That Guy With The Glasses were also in attendance.

For more info about Anime Central, please click on the image above.

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Tom Jay Jones: A 'Regular Guy From The Midwest' & A Star In Hollywood

As a young kid growing up in Cleveland Heights, Ohio,  Thomas Anthony Jones was the typical target for bullies:  5'1, skinny, and with glasses. 

Now he stands at a muscular 6'2 and can share an impressive bio at class reunions as one of Hollywood's most persevering actors.

But before the lights, camera and action-- "T.J." (as he is known to his family) was just trying to live out his dream as an aspiring actor. After graduating from Bowling Green State University, he landed an internship with "Living Single," and made a small appearance in a 1997 episode of that show.

In 1998, he landed a one-episode role on "Sister, Sister" as Todd-- a personal assistant for Lisa who accused her of sexual harassment after she fired him for being forgetful.

After that, he found a few more roles with shows like "The Parkers" and movies such as "Do You Wanna Know A Secret?" --but T.J. wanted to become more than just the "safe, educated black guy."

Instead of waiting for the next role to find him, he ventured out to expand his portfolio by doing more print modeling, commercials, and working as a production assistant. In time, his diverse skill set helped him to carve out his own niche in Hollywood.  
  
Earlier this month, he spoke with Zack's TV about the pros and cons of Hollywood typecasting. 

"At least you fit in and I think that's important in Hollywood," T.J. explained. " Because they're gonna slap on a label on you when you get out here based on what you look like or what you can do or your body type." 

While having a good physique helped T.J. gain opportunities, he found better avenues to make an income and a positive impact through his networking. As a result, he took a short break from on-camera appearances but the acting bug bit him again recently. 

T.J. appears on an October 2013 episode of NCIS: Los Angeles

A few months ago, T.J. signed with a new agency and found roles more fitting to his career goals. He has more commercials coming up and recently appeared as a doctor in the Crestor commercial. 



And none of his success appears to go to his head. 

For T.J., humility goes hand in hand with his upbringing. He remembers being raised by working class parents who were respected in the community. His father, "Big Tom," was a police officer--with a towering 6'4 presence-- who introduced him to fitness at the age of 7. His mother, Faye, showed him how to be compassionate for the less fortunate as a PR specialist for the Cleveland Society For The Blind. 

Now, T.J. gets to channel both of his parents' careers by dressing up as a police officer in TV roles and print ads, while putting his Telecommunications degree to bring awareness to President Obama's STEM Initiative. 

No matter how much applause he gets, T.J. stays grounded by family values. And he works to pass those values on to young actors who are new to the business.

"You gotta fill your free time on top of wanting to act," he says. 

"It can't just be about 'I want to be famous and rich!' It doesn't work like that."

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Don't 'Wing It' Alone: 5 Reasons To Take Self Defense Classes

In a world where the police only respond to "serious" emergencies, more people are turning to self defense to protect the person who matters the most: the one in the mirror! 

Contrary to popular assumptions, self defense is not just a thing for scrawny folks. (Look at the big guy in the picture above. I'm sure he doesn't need martial arts to let folks know that he means business.) 

And it's not just a thing for women or Will Smith's character on "The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air."  

Men of all ages, physical builds, and income levels can benefit from taking self defense classes. 

Here are five reasons why: 

Self Defense Helps Improve Discipline
Before the ass-kicking begins, most self defense instructors like Matt Johnson (pictured above far right) will explain to students that with great power comes great responsibility. 

Known as "Sifu Matt," the veteran instructor teaches students about self control and meditation. 

It is a strategy of "choosing your battles wisely" to avoid fighting back when escape is a safer option.

Self Defense Provides Gun-Free Alternatives To Conflicts

Sometimes, conceal and carry is not the answer. The safest alternative to using a gun is learning how to defend yourself without one.

Self Defense Is A Gift That Keeps Giving

"When you learn, teach; When you get, give." 

You can share more than video game tips with your friends. It will help keep them from becoming defeated by real-life monsters! 

 

Self Defense Can Boost Your Confidence

When you know that you have the tools to defend yourself, you will feel more confident and less afraid.


Self Defense Connects You With New Friends 

If you are tired of hanging with couch potatoes or chatting with Facebook friends, self defense classes offer a positive social environment. 

What are you waiting for? ;) 

Head to Matt Johnson's website for more info. 
   

 



 

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150 Years After The Emancipation Proclamation, The GOP Repositions For Better Race Relations

This year, New Year's Day had a special significance for African Americans: it marked the 150th anniversary of The Emancipation Proclamation --which ended slavery in states that had seceded from the Union.

At that time, President Abraham Lincoln--a Republican-- made a historic decision to liberate black slaves. 

The proclamation eventually gave the "Grand Ole' Party" (GOP) a strategic political advantage with voters of color for nearly 75 years. To their credit, the Republican party produced the first black members of Congress during the Reconstruction era and helped pass the Thirteenth, Fourteenth, and Fifteenth Amendments.  But the tide began to turn during the 1930s as more blacks shifted their support to the Democratic party.

For Republicans, regaining the confidence of black voters has been an arduous task. While some blacks have advanced to prominent positions within the GOP--such as newly appointed Senator Tim Scott-- minority voters have maintained an affinity for the Democratic party.

In the 2nd Congressional District of Illinois, Republican candidate Lenny McAllister faces the formidable task of winning a district which has voted Democratic for almost 60 years. On Tuesday, he issued a statement to commemorate Lincoln's historic act and reflect on what all Americans should do. “150 years later, we are called – through the power of words, the steps of a movement, and perhaps the stroke of a pen – to be historic ourselves," McAllister said. 

The 40-year-old self-proclaimed "Working Man's Conservative" continued with his thoughts about how the past can be used to reflect on where America is today.

" In 1863, Lincoln was called to grant freedom from chattel slavery. Today, we are called to facilitate freedom from economic poverty, political depravity, societal alienation, and educational deficiencies."

Yet, there are some who feel the Republican party --as a whole-- is not working towards those freedoms.

Iris DeSalvo, a resident of Chicago's North Side, is a "full-blooded Democrat." As a former charity worker, she has seen the good that her party has done for the less fortunate--in the present.

"I care wholeheartedly about Lincoln helping to get freedom for the slaves," DeSalvo said. "As for [everything else],  I really hate the Republican party." 

Another Chicago resident, Carole E. Cooper --who is black--didn't express hatred for the GOP but she did share some of DeSalvo's sentiments. 

"They can try to exploit [the Emancipation Proclamation's anniversary] but not use it to their advantage because the Republican Party has never been the party for the disenfranchised American," the real estate professional explained. "With the loss of their candidates, the fiscal cliff, the recent shooting in Newtown--they have so many other issues that they need to focus on that any attempt to do so would be fruitless."

Yet, Ms. Cooper acknowledged that some of the challenges for Republicans are circumstantial. 

"I'm sure if these things were not in the way, they might have done something, but with the world today, I simply don't see it."

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