Friday, June 26
Village of Dolton Ordinance Gives Residents Recall Power
The Village of Dolton’s Board of Trustees recently approved the passage of Ordinance 15-022 giving residents of the village the power to recall elected officials during the 2016 election.
The National Newspaper Publishers Association Welcomes New Leadership
The National Newspaper Publishers Association (NNPA) elected new leadership at the 2015 NNPA Annual National Convention held at the Detroit Marriott at the Renaissance Center, 400 Renaissance Dr., Detroit, Mi.
Tanya Anthony, New Cook County Budget Director
Chicago Park District’s Chief Administrative Officer, Tanya Anthony is Cook County’s new budget director. Cook Board Toni Preckwinkle made the announcement last week.
SSC Pac Rat Theatre Company Holding Open Auditions for Rick Abbot Comedy
Local thespians who’d like to try their hand at comedy are urged to audition for a local production.
Wednesday, June 24
Stevie Wonder to Open Special Olympics Games
Stevie Wonder, Cody Simpson and Avril Lavigne are some of the stars who will perform during next month’s opening ceremony of the Special Olympics World Games, organizers announced last week.
NBC Boots Brian Williams from 'Nightly News,' Lester Holt takes over full-time
NBC News said Thursday that Brian Williams will not return to his job as "Nightly News" anchor following his suspension for misrepresenting himself, but will be given a second chance as a breaking news anchor at the cable network MSNBC.
Who Pays For First Lady's Fabulous Fashions?
Michelle Obama's fashionable clothing has become something of a given in her five-plus years as first lady. Yet her wardrobe still is the subject of endless public fascination and one long-simmering question: Who pays for those incredible outfits?
Cullen Jones ‘Makes a Splash’ in Chicago by Teaching Youth to Swim
Two-time Olympic swimming gold medalist, Cullen Jones, recently gave free and reduced cost swimming lessons at Foster Park, 1440 W. 84th St. in Chicago, for “Make A Splash”, an initiative presented by the USA Swim Foundation (USF) and Philips 66, aimed at lowering nationwide drowning death rates.
Ill. Black Caucus to Hold “Stop the Cuts Rally”
Ill. State Sen. Donne Trotter (Dist.-17) is urging community residents to join the Illinois Legislative Black Caucus “Stop the Cuts” rally scheduled for Thursday, June 25 at Chicago State University’s Douglas Hall-Breakey Theater, 9501 S. Dr. Martin Luther King Drive in Chicago.
Largest Minority-Owned Tennis Organization Breaks Ground on New State-of-Art-Facility in Washington Park
The largest minority-owned tennis organization in the nation, serving more than 2,000 Chicago Public School (CPS) students through its free in-school Tennis XSpress program and more than 2,300 Chicago youth and residents annually, broke ground Monday on a new state-of-the-art, $9.8 million, 112,000-square-foot, tennis facility in Chicago’s Washington Park neighborhood.
NNPA Celebrates 75th Anniversary and Prepares for Future
Members of the historic National Newspaper Publishers Association (NNPA) celebrated the organization’s 75th anniversary at the 2015 NNPA Convention held at the Detroit Marriott at the Renaissance Center, 400 Renaissance Dr., Detroit, Mich.
Street Naming in Honor of the Late, Jacoby Dickens of Seaway Bank
Business owners, local politicians and celebrities joined Seaway Bank and Trust Company Chairman, Veranda Dickens, for the bank’s 50th anniversary celebration and street naming event, held June 19, in honor of her late husband, Seaway Bank chairman, Jacoby Dickens.
Friday, June 19
First Lady Michelle Obama to King High School Class of 2015: “You are the Ones Who Can Change the Narrative about Your Community”
First Lady Michelle Obama’s commencement address June 9, at Martin Luther King Jr. College Prep High School’s Class of 2015 graduation ceremony was inspiring, complimentary and honored Hadiya Pendleton, the 15-year-old who was fatally shot Jan. 2013 while spending time with her school mates in a Bronzeville Park near her home.
Miss Zimbabwe Stripped of Title For Posing Nude
Miss Zimbabwe has been officially stripped of her title after photographs emerged of her posing nude, pageant organizers announced.
Singer Akon Offers Assistance with African Energy Crisis
The initiative “Akon Lighting Africa” trains local African engineers and entrepreneurs in the production of solar power and will bring solar power to over 600 million Africans.
Facts about Needle Exchanges and Hepatitis C
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention documented a 364 percent increase in new cases of Hepatitis C in Kentucky, Tennessee, West Virginia and Virginia. Of the four states, only Kentucky has passed legislation to allow for syringe exchanges. Such programs remain illegal in Virginia. West Virginia is considering implementing a pilot program, citing the Hepatitis C epidemic.
Affordable Summer Tips to Get Kids Active
As the school year comes to a close, it’s up to parents to make sure their kids’ summers are filled with opportunities for them to stay active. Summer programs and sports leagues are great, but they often require expensive participation fees.
Fashion Designer Oscar De La Renta Snubs Adopted Son from $26M Will
Late fashion designer Oscar de la Renta has snubbed his adopted son - a designer at his label - in his $26 million will after the pair fell out 10 years ago.
Wednesday, June 17
Hashtag Lunchbag Chicago Partners with Hillshire Farms to Feed the Community
Clients of the Pacific Garden Mission, 1458 S. Canal St. in Chicago recently enjoyed healthy bagged lunches, courtesy of Hashtag Lunchbag Chicago (HLC) and Hillshire Farms who collaborated providing 800 meals for the homeless shelter.
New Urban Communications Data Center Opens in Oak Forest
Nearly 90 supporters attended The Chicago Southland Fiber Network (CSFN) June 4th grand opening reception and tour of the new $3 million Urban Communications Data Center, at 5320 W. 159th St. in Oak Forest, Ill.
Utility Providers Form the Illinois Utilities Business Diversity Council
Six of Illinois’ largest utility providers recently united to announce the formation of the Illinois Utilities Business Diversity Council (IUBDC) at the James R. Thompson Center, 100 W. Randolph St. in Chicago.
City of Chicago PlayStreet Events Gets Underway
It’s time to hit the streets…and play! The City of Chicago PlayStreets 2015 got underway last week with 150 special events scheduled throughout the summer as a way for children and families to engage in outdoor activities.
Yoko Ono’s SKY LANDING Art Installation in Jackson Park
Celebrity artist Yoko Ono, 82, was in Chicago on Friday to announce the installation of a permanent piece of her art work titled SKY LANDING, in Jackson Park’s Garden of the Phoenix, the first of her artwork installed in the U.S.
Walgreens to Close Several Stores Across Chicagoland
There is bad news for many Walgreens shoppers who frequent Store #7876 at 7544 S. Stony Island Ave. in Chicago; it is closing its doors the week of June 14, 2015. Customers who get medical prescriptions filled at this location will be transferred and serviced at Jewel-Osco, 7530 S. Stony Island Ave.
More than 200,000 Chicagoland Workers Set for Pay Raises on July 1st
Beginning July 1, Chicago’s hourly workforce are expected to see the first phase of a minimum wage increase from $8.25 to $10 an hour as part of the City of Chicago’s planned minimum wage increase to $13 an hour by 2019.
Thursday, June 11
Bloomingdale Trail Opens to the Public
The long-awaited, much anticipated, Bloomingdale Trail—also known as the “606”-- opened to the public over the weekend with a ribbon cutting that included Chicago Mayor Rahm Emanuel, U.S. Sen. Richard (Dick) Durban (D-IL).
Congress Sends NSA Phone-Records Bill to President
Congress approved sweeping changes last week to surveillance laws enacted after the Sept. 11 attacks, eliminating the National Security Agency's disputed bulk phone-records collection program and replacing it with a more restrictive measure to keep the records in phone companies' hands.
Judge Delays Case After 'Suge' Knight Hires Jackson Lawyer
A judge last week delayed the murder trial of Marion "Suge" Knight after the former rap music mogul hired the attorney who successfully defended Michael Jackson against child molestation charges.
Gabourey Sidibe Memoir Coming in 2017
Gabourey Sidibe has been holding back. The Oscar-nominated actress best known for the film "Precious" and hit TV series "Empire" is working on a memoir scheduled to come out in 2017. The book is untitled, publisher Houghton Mifflin Harcourt announced Wednesday. In a statement issued through her publisher, the 32-year-old Sidibe said she had been writing since childhood and was anxious to share stories "too long, shady and impolite" for interviews. Her other movies include "Tower Heist" and "Yelling to the Sky" and the TV series "The Big C."
Phoenix Military Academy Receives $6 Million in Funding for STEM and Leadership Academy Pilot Program
It is safe to say that students and staff at the Phoenix Military Academy (PMA), 145 S. Campbell Ave., are celebrating right now, thanks to a $6 million a federal grant the school received from the U.S. Dept. of Defense (DOD) for a new Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) and Leadership Academy Pilot Program.
Wednesday, June 10
Cal-Sag Trail Opens in Chicago South Suburbs
Here is a bit of good news for hikers and cyclists. The western half of the Calumet-Sag Trail (dubbed the Cal-Sag Trail) in Chicago’s south suburbs is open for business.
Gov. Rauner Responds to State Dems' Proposed Budget
The Ill. House of Representatives Democrats proposed a $36 billion budget for fiscal year 2016 (FY2016) in May in response to Ill. Gov. Bruce Rauner’s “Turnaround” budget released in Feb. that included deep cuts to social services.
Graduate Fashion Week 2015
Ushers in a New Wave Of Designers
Eccentric high-end looks and commercial lines from the latest generation of emerging talent hit the runways for the industry event’s 24th year.
New Leader Takes Helm at Chicago Housing Authority
Eugene Jones takes the helm at the Chicago Housing Authority as the Acting CEO, replacing Michael Merchant who is leaving the post for other professional opportunities.
Lisa Morrison Butler Appointed as New Dept. of Family and Support Services Commissioner
Lisa Morrison Butler, will replace outgoing City of Chicago Department of Family and Support Services (DFSS) Commissioner, Evelyn Diaz, upon confirmation by the Chicago City Council, effective Aug. 1, 2015. Chicago Mayor Rahm Emanuel nominated Morrison Butler as Diaz accepted the position of President of the Heartland Alliance for Human Needs & Human Rights.
Wal-Mart to Let Workers Add Denim Pants to Work Wardrobe
Wal-Mart is hoping denim pants will raise the spirits of its more than 1.2 million U.S. store workers.
Taco Bell to serve alcohol at Chicago location
Taco Bell says it will serve beer, wine and "mixed alcohol freezes" at a new location set to open in Chicago this summer.
New City Colleges of Chicago Board Members Announced
Current president and co-founder of PFG, LLC, a private Chicago-based equity firm, Gary Gardner, son of Soft Sheen founders Ed and Bettiann Gardner, is amongst four new members appointed to the City Colleges of Chicago Board of Trustees (CCC).
Q & A with Star Jones
Star Jones, television personality, attorney, best-selling author and commentator, navigates the world rooted in her southern upbringing. And now, after a successful 25-year television run, Jones says she’s found another “calling” in an unexpected industry. The former star of “The View” television talk show is currently a women’s and diversity advocate.
Friday, June 5
Illinois Sues 5 Companies for Student Loan Repayment Scams
Illinois' attorney general has filed lawsuits against five companies and is accusing them of scamming people who need to repay student loan debt.
Wednesday, June 3
Urban Prep Academy seeks Charter Renewal from CPS Board
Urban Prep Academy, president and CEO, Tim King, lobbied for the school’s charter renewal during a Chicago Public School’s (CPS) Board of Education meeting last week at CPS headquarters, 42 W. Madison Ave., as his students stood alongside of him.
Denzel Washington’s Daughter Olivia Makes NYC Stage Debut
Like so many other aspiring actresses, Olivia Washington is paying her dues at a small, off-Broadway theater. Unlike so many other aspiring actresses, she’s not relying on her famous dad.
Two South Suburban Fire Depts. Received Federal Grant Money to Purchase Firefighter Equipment
Congresswoman Robin Kelly (Dist.-2nd) announced Monday morning that the Richton Park and Riverdale fire departments were each awarded federal grants from the Assistance to Firefighters Grants Program.
The Black Mall and Cultural Connection 360 Host Juneteenth Celebration
The Black Mall and Cultural Connection 360 are celebrating the 150th anniversary of African Americans' “Independence Day” otherwise known as “Juneteenth.” The day of remembrance is designed for the entire family at Culture Connection 360, 400 W. 71st St., on June 19 beginning at 4 p.m.
“Street Clothes” Given New Meaning In Zimbabwe
The wares in Zimbabwe's capital are laid out for shoppers to browse through: the shoes lined up on the trunk, the shirts and dresses hanging from open doors of the spotlessly clean car.
Women of the AACM, A Musical Experience to Behold
Celebrating their 50th year anniversary, Women of the Association for the Advancement of Creative Musicians (AACM) wowed the audience who gathered for a “spirit-filled” concert celebrating the milestone occasion.
Willie Wilson Running for President
“I’m Living Proof of the American Dream”
It’s official. Millionaire businessman, Willie Wilson, announced with his wife by his side, during a Monday morning news conference held at Chicago Baptist Institute, 5120 S. Dr. Martin Luther King Drive, in Chicago, that he is a 2016 presidential candidate.
Mayor Emanuel Nominates Lori Lightford to Chair the Chicago Police Board
Lori Lightfoot, will be the next chair of the Chicago Police Board (CPB) replacing, Demetrius Carney. Lightfoot was recently appointed by Chicago Mayor Rahm Emanuel.
World of Soul Motorcycle Community Takes Lead on College Tours
Imagine this. A motorcycle enthusiast or “biker”, who organizes Historically Black College and University (HBCU) tours for inner city kids. No need to imagine, because it is really happening, thanks to Terry Hardy, founder and President of World of Soul Motorcycle Community (WSMC), an organization he founded in 2008.
Barbara Byrd Bennett Resigns as Chicago Public Schools CEO as Federal Probe Continues
Chicago Mayor Rahm Emanuel issued a statement on Monday morning, announcing Chicago Public Schools (CPS) CEO, Barbara Byrd Bennett’s resignation as the federal probe continues into a $20.5 million no-bid contract awarded to the leadership development academy for whom, she once worked.