Thursday, March 30
FSCAC STANDS AGAINST GOV. BRUCE RAUNER
Illinois Governor Bruce Rauner delivered his 2017 budget address to the Illinois General Assembly on Feb. 15, 2017 at the Capitol in Springfield, and stated that his 2017 budget proposal would potentially bring, “economic changes [and] it will also focus on the fabric of our society – investing in schools, public safety, criminal justice reform and human services,” according to an Illinois Government News Network press release.
Wednesday, March 29
Van Cleef Hair Studio, stylist for Michelle Obama relocates
Van Cleef Hair Studio (http://www.vancleefhair. com) a fixture on Chicago’s Magnificent Mile and River North neighborhoods for more than 30 years, has relocated to University Village Maxwell Street (http:// www.uvmaxwellstreet.com) on the Chicago Weekend of the University of Illinois at Chicago campus.
LOCAL TEENS UPLIFTED BY ‘STAY IN SCHOOL’ PROGRAM
“There are wonderful people in all of our lives including these kids’ lives who help them succeed,” Stay in School’s mentor Linda Rhodes said. “But for a lot of folks, including some of these kids, there are also a lot of challenges that are out of their control, a lot of exposure in their neighborhoods, within their schools and in their families.”
Overcoming the Challenges of Autism
“Autism, or autism spectrum disorder, refers to a range of conditions characterized by challenges with social skills, repetitive behaviors, speech and nonverbal communication, as well as by unique strengths and differences. Autism’s most-obvious signs tend to appear between 2 and 3 years of age. In some cases, it can be diagnosed as early as 18 months,” according to autismspeaks.org.
Hair Trends
The new trend in the hair market is “360 lace frontal,” or 360 Frontal – which go all the way around the circumference of the head. Some include elastic bands or standard Swiss lace for sewn in styling preferences.
Discover the Latest Men’s Fashion Trends at Clothes Make
Personalized clothes are one of the latest trends in men’s fashion. The company Clothes Make (CM) is cashing in on that trend by allowing men to design their own suits at a price they can afford. Men can personalize the collar style, cuffs, button material and fabric to create their own exclusive item(s).
Naya Rivera Becomes New Celebrity Brand Ambassador
Together, NIOXIN and Rivera will help give a voice to the 75% of Americans who are worried about losing their hair* and the 46% of Americans who think there is nothing they can do to prevent their hair from thinning.
Ice Box Derby Exposes Girls To Stem Related Careers
Commonwealth Edison Company (ComEd) is a unit of Chicago based Exelon Corporation (NYSE: EXC), and is the nation’s leading competitive energy provider with approximately 6.6 million customers.
U.S. Army Partners with National Society of Black Engineers for 43rd Annual Convention – “Engineering Your Foundation”
Recognizing the vital importance of developing our nation’s next generation of engineers, scientists and technical professionals, the U.S. Army continues its partnership with the National Society of Black Engineers (NSBE) for the sixth year. The partnership includes the Army’s participation at the NSBE Annual Convention March 29 – April 2 in Kansas City, Mo. as a member of the organization’s Board of Corporate Affiliates (BCA).
Monday, March 27
MAYOR EMANUEL AND THE FRENCH PASTRY SCHOOL ANNOUNCE FIRST-EVER “MAYOR’S CUP” CITYWIDE YOUTH CULINARY COMPETITION
Mayor Rahm Emanuel and The French Pastry School today announced the first-ever Mayor’s Cup Youth Pastry Competition, a mentoring and vocational opportunity that will engage high school students ages 14-19 from each of Chicago’s 50 wards. Beginning this spring, the city of Chicago will begin a unique partnership with the internationally renowned, French Pastry School of Kennedy-King College at City Colleges of Chicago (FPS).
Friday, March 24
Frank M. Zuccarelli wins the village of South Holland Community Humanitarian award
Thornton Township Supervisor Frank M. Zuccarelli said everyday he wakes up and tries to think of a way to make a difference in the lives of the community. Others have seen that dedication and recently gave him a prestigious honor.
Cook County to Participate in Earth Hour
Cook County will turn off its non-essential lights March 25 to commemorate Earth Hour and call attention to climate change.
Wednesday, March 22
FIGHTING CRIME WITH COMPASSION
New program helps fight the destructive effects associated with gun violence
A new anti-violence program focused around community trauma centers will aim to address the destructive effects of gun violence now that a measure co-sponsored by State Senator Jacqueline Collins has been signed into law.
STUDIO MOVIE GRILL CHATHAM HOSTS 6 WEEKS OF COMMUNITY EVENTS
Chatham’s resident first-run movie theater Studio Movie Grill (“SMG”), is celebrating the completion of its nearly $3 million recent remodel with a six-week lineup of special screenings and events.
Spring Essentials From the Stylist
It’s time to peel off those itchy wool sweaters, ladies, and jump into spring style with the ultimate guide to this year’s essentials from Celebrity Stylist Mark-Alan Harmon and the frugal fashionista shopping haven, Prime Outlets.
Unemployment Rates Increase in Most Metro Areas
The majority of Illinois’ metropolitan (metro) areas experienced increases in their over-the-year unemployment rate. Five of the metro areas had increases in nonfarm jobs, eight reported declines, and one was unchanged, according to preliminary data released recently by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) and the Illinois Department of Employment Security (IDES).
Stratton Backs Legislation to Encourage State to Invest in Woman and Minority Businesses
“Too often minority owned and woman-owned businesses have a more difficult time receiving a loan, or have to pay very high interest rates if they do,” Stratton said. “Ensuring that these businesses are able to receive their fair share of government contracts is both important and just. And these businesses are providing great services – someone just needs to give them an opportunity.”
Students Use Art to Fight for Social Justice
Color: A Painting Exhibition Against Hate features a group of young diverse college students from SFUAD who are using their art to fight for social justice.
SUMMIT HELPS STRENGTHEN COMMUNITY TIES
“The Woodlawn Community Summit and South East Chicago Commission (SECC) recently held their the Eighth Annual Woodlawn Community Summit, with a community-driven theme “What’s Going On.” The event was held on Saturday March 18, 2017, from 8 a.m. -12 p.m., at the University of Chicago School of Social Service Administration, 960 East 60th Street. With the goal to carve one path to a vibrant community, this summit brought together residents, stakeholders and planners with a united vision for the community.
‘IMAGINE ENGLEWOOD IF’ OFFERS A CHANCE TO GIVE BACK
“Imagine Englewood If ” presented its Growing Citizen Leaders program and held an interest meeting Mar. 13,2017 at 730 W. 69th st. The Growing Citizen Leaders Program (GCL) is a unique and life changing program devoted to providing a safe space for teens to interact with their peers, build an intentional community and engage in meaningful, issue-based environmental and social justice work.
STUDENTS EXPERIENCE HAMILTON THE MUSICAL
HAMILTON Education Program released “its third of 10 all-student matinee performances in 2017, which will provide 20,000 Chicago high school students the opportunity to experience the musical HAMILTON after having spent several weeks in their classrooms studying American history through a special integrated curriculum about Alexander Hamilton and the nation’s Founding Fathers
AT&T Celebrates the Power of Sisterhood with Luvvie Ajayi
Best known for her popular blog Awesomely Luvvie, Ajayi took part in a special dose of “real talk”. She discussed her compelling journey and the power of sisterhood and digital connections.
Monday, March 20
New Education and Training Movement Stakes Ground in the Windy City
CHICAT offers life-changing after-school arts and technology education for students and demand-driven innovative vocational training for adults. It focuses on the connection between art and technology, the power of connecting communities, and engaging and teaching in an inspirational and beautiful environment.
Wednesday, March 15
Twenty-Seven-Year- Old African-American Breaks New Ground
Freddie Figgers, an American inventor, self taught computer programmer, and entrepreneur, who operates his own cell phone company, Figgers Communications Inc., one of the nation’s fastest growing African-American-owned telecommunications firms.
NEW RESOURCES SUPPORT THRIVING RETAIL CORRIDORS ACROSS CHICAGO
Mayor Rahm Emanuel recently announced new resources designed to support thriving retail corridors across Chicago’s South, Southwest and West Sides. The Retail Thrive Zones initiative will invest an initial $16 million directly into commercial strips in eight neighborhoods, creating jobs and new amenities for neighborhood residents.
LOUISVILLE NATIVE GIVES BACK TO THE BLACK COMMUNITY
Alan “AP” Powell is one of the nation’s greatest unsung African-American heroes.
Sundial Brands Launches nyakio™ Exclusively in Ulta
Sundial Brands, a leading skincare and haircare manufacturer renowned for its innovative use of high-quality, culturally authentic natural ingredients, recently announced the launch of the company’s first prestige skincare line – nyakio™. Inspired by her family of medicine men, farmers and educators, founder Nyakio Kamoche Grieco, a firstgeneration American of Kenyan descent, partnered with Sundial Brands to bring global secrets of naturally ageless beauty to the U.S. market. Based on Nyakio’s family recipes, as well as beauty traditions from 13 countries across the globe, each formula evokes a luxurious, culturally transcendent experience.
ARCHDIOCESE OF CHICAGO ANNOUNCES CATHOLIC SCHOOL 2017 GOLDEN APPLE AWARD FINALISTS
The Archdiocese of Chicago is proud to announce that three Catholic school personnel – a principal and two teachers – are finalists for the 2017 Golden Apple Awards. Phyllis Cavallone- Jurek, principal of St. Therese Catholic School in Chicago, is one of 10 Chicagoland finalists for the Golden Apple Stanley C. Golder Leadership Award, which honors the exemplary performance and excellence in school leadership of a principal or head of school from the Chicagoland area.
Weekly Inspirations
When taking up the critical work involved in modifying the direction in which our lives may be going, one of the most fundamental things we can do is change the way we think about ourselves.
WGN America Releases First Look of John Legend as Frederick Douglass in ‘Underground’
WGN America has released a first look image of Grammy, Golden Globe and Academy Award winning artist John Legend as renowned abolitionist Frederick Douglass in the hit series “Underground.”
POAH TURNS $30 MILLION TO $400 MILLION IN WOODLAWN
Following the daily news headlines, you would think there is little good happening in Chicago’s South Side neighborhoods. But when you look closer, there’s more to the story.
SOUTH SUBURBAN COLLEGE JAZZ COMBO AND VOICES BRING COMMUNITY TOGETHER
The musicians of South Suburban College Jazz Combo and the South Suburban College Voices thrilled the audience with tunes by jazz legends on Wednesday, March 8th at 7:00 p.m. in the Kindig Performing Arts Center on SSC’s Main Campus. Sam Hankins directed the Jazz combo while Doug Ulrich guided the SSC voices.
Tuesday, March 14
CAROLYN RUSH, WIFE OF REP. BOBBY L. RUSH DIES AT 68
Chicago mourns the loss of Carolyn Rush, wife of Representative Bobby L. Rush.
Thursday, March 9
CHICAGO'S COMEBACK KID TURNS 60
There is nothing that Hollywood or the public likes more than a good comeback story. Who wouldn't like a second or third chance at a good life.
Wednesday, March 8
HAKI R. MADHUBUTIS 75 YEAR LEGACY CONTINUES
Whether it was teaching at colleges like Chicago State University, Howard University and the University of Iowa or through his 1-million copy best-seller book entitled, “Black Men: Obsolete, Single, And Dangerous? The African American Family in Transition”(1990), Madhubuti has inspired people nationwide both in and outside of the classroom.
THE STATE OF AFRICAN AMERICAN MALES
Congressman Davis talks about the problems, solutions and the need for change
Congressman Danny K. Davis said Chicago is one of the leading cities in the nation facing “big ticket problems” when it comes to the African American male. But in spite of that, Davis said he hasn’t lost hope and will continue to fight for them as long as there is light.
The Power of Engagement: New Initiative Strengthens Ties With Minority Business Associations
FCA US LLC supplier diversity kicks off 2017 with a new initiative aimed at connecting its purchasing organization with minority, women and veteran business associations by providing customized training, learning and development, and networking opportunities.
Six Tips for a Healthier Smile
Six Tips for a Healthier Smile People love to experience that “fresh from the dentist” feeling, when the tip of the tongue glides effortlessly and smoothly over a freshly cleaned set of pearly whites. So, why not have that feeling all of the time?
Inexpensive Ways to Improve Your Skin
Improving your skin doesn’t have to break the bank. Here’s how you can improve your skin on a budget
ORGANIZATIONS HONORED FOR ACHIEVEMENTS IN COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT AND ARCHITECTURAL DESIGN
“More than 1,500 community developers, architects, business leaders, neighborhood advocates and elected officials came together recently for the 23rd Annual Chicago Neighborhood Development Awards (CNDA) located at the McCormick Place (2301 S. Indiana Ave.). Nine organizations were honored for their achievements in community development and architectural design.
Explore Illinois history with new app
A new app from the Illinois Historic Preservation Agency offers information and photos that will help visitors get the most from their trips to state historic sites.
DEAF+HEARING ACTORS TEAM UP WITH CHICAGO’S NEVERBIRD PROJECT FOR PINOCCHIO
Young hearing and deaf actors will perform on stage together in a signed and voice presentation of Pinocchio, only the second production in the new Chicago Children’s Theatre, The Station.
weekly Inspirations
When you spend enough time with people, one of the things you might come to realize is that we are naturally wired to strive, grow, and do better. Whether it is in a kindergarten classroom, a hospital examination room, or a family living room, we want to be better, even if we do not quite understand how to become better.
SIAFA LEWIS NAMED LEAD SPORTS ANCHOR AT WMAQ-TV
NBC 5/WMAQ-TV announced recently that Siafa Lewis has been promoted to Lead Sports Anchor for “NBC 5 News” at 5 PM, 6 PM and 10 PM. Lewis joined the NBC 5 Sports team in May 2014, as sports anchor and reporter and co-host of NBC 5’s “Sports Sunday” program.
Up to $100,000 in Scholarships to Students Pursuing Agriculture-related Studies
The National Black Farmers Association (NBFA) Scholarship Program is now accepting applications for the 2017-18 academic year. In its third year, the NBFA Scholarship Program will award scholarships of up to $5,000 to African- American farmers or dependents of African-American farmers who plan to enroll or who are enrolled in agriculture-related study at an accredited two-year or four-year college, university or vocational technical school.
CPS Charter High School Graduates 20% More Likely to Enroll in College Than Traditional CPS Graduates
Twenty years after the first charter public high school opened in Chicago, a new report released recently by the Illinois Network of Charter Schools found that charter high school seniors are 20 percent more likely to enroll in college than other CPS seniors -- and that charter schools are dramatically increasing college access for historically underserved students.
ACKNOWLEDGING UNPRECEDENTED SUPPORT FOR HBCUS
The Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. routinely would remind those of us who worked for the Southern Christian Leadership Conference (SCLC) during the Civil Rights Movement of the 1960s about the vital importance of Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs). As we celebrated Black History Month 2017, Dr. King’s admonition concerning the enduring need for HBCUs should be reaffirmed every month.
Wednesday, March 1
RESTAURATEUR AND ACTIVIST JOSEPHINE WADE TO GET STREET NAMED IN HER HONOR
The community leaders in the Chatham, Chesterfield and Park Manor communities lobbied city officials for the designation. “Mrs. Wade has been an icon “woman/business activist” in the Park Manor community for more than a decade. Her community participation and involvement with Park Manor Neighbors has been phenomenal throughout the years and will continue into the future”, said Darlene Tribue, President, Park Manor Neighbors Community Council.
Entrepreneur, author and philanthropist, Holly Robinson Peete discusses juggling a multi-faceted life
Being glamorous and leading a ‘real’ life might seem like contradictory concepts, but it’s all a day in the life for actress Holly Robinson Peete. The multitalented actress, entrepreneur, author and philanthropist is currently shooting the second season of her family docu-series “For Peete’s Sake”with her husband, former NFL quarterback Rodney Peete, their four children and her mother, Dolores. The show gives a positive spin to reality TV by sharing their lives, everyday challenges and their journey with son RJ, who has autism.
Using social media successfully in 2017 The experts discuss trends to watch
You have to be real, transparent and authentic and figure out how you can cut through the clutter of social media.
U.S. Rep. Bobby L. Rush goes after gun traffickers with the Hadiya Pendleton and Nyasia Pryear Act of 2017
As deadly gun violence continues to claim lives in Chicago and wreak havoc on communities engulfed in poverty, drugs, high unemployment and a lack of access to mental health and social services, U.S. Representative Bobby L. Rush (IL-01) has reintroduced H.R.810 the “Hadiya Pendleton and Nyasia Pryear- Yard Stop Illegal Trafficking in Firearms Act of 2017.”
Innovative Cancer Imager Earns Illinois Tech Professor Prestigious NSF CAREER Award
Chicago – Illinois Tech Assistant Professor of Biomedical Engineering Kenneth Tichauer has been awarded a prestigious NSF CAREER Award in the amount of $568,245 to perfect a medical imager that could lead to earlier detection/diagnosis and targeted drug development for cancer patients.
Respected longtime Chicago Area HIV Specialist to see patients at AHF’s Hyde Park and South Side locations
“I am so excited to join AHF and continue providing exceptional care to Chicago’s LGBT community and people living with HIV/AIDS,” said Dr. Wilson. “My goal is to help our patients achieve complete total wellness in their lives and empower them to stay in treatment and keep a positive attitude about their futures.”
C-SPAN RELEASES THIRD PRESIDENTIAL HISTORIANS SURVEY
As the United States continues to move under the leadership of its 45th President Donald Trump, C-SPAN released the results of its third Historians Survey of Presidential Leadership, in which a cross-section of 91 presidential historians ranked the 43 former occupants of the White House on ten attributes of leadership.
Jackie Robinson Foundation to Honor Alex Gorsky, Chairman and CEO of Johnson & Johnson, Claire Smith, Pioneering Sports Journalist, at the Foundation’s Annual ROBIE Awards Dinner
This year, the ROBIE Awards Dinner will raise funds to support the Foundation’s scholarship program as well as the Jackie Robinson Museum.
A Date with Destiny: Video Games Teach Kids Life Lessons
It’s an undeniable fact. Among cash, gift cards and the “toy of the moment,” kids want video games. Rail against it all you want, that’s the reality. But take heart, parents, today’s video games can teach kids valuable life lessons not learned in a classroom
DEFEATING CANCER AND THE POWER OF A POSITIVE THOUGHT
Ovarian cancer is the fifth leading cancer disease in total deaths for women in the United States, and is currently “accounting for more deaths than any other cancer of the female reproductive system.” In fact, more than 22,000 U.S. women will be diagnosed with ovarian cancer in 2017 and ultimately 14,000 will eventually die from the disease, according to cancer.org.
YOUNG CHICAGO POET SHARES WOMANIST VIEWS
“My artistic statement is the examination of the intersectionalities between womanism and the hood,” Black said. “A lot of times people associate marginalized neighborhoods like Englewood, Austin or the “hood” in general with hyper-dominance or hyper-masculinity. But people never really think about the correlation of how that ties to a black woman, especially with women being trended as feminine or soft.”