Wednesday, July 25
Thornton Township’s July 2018 Annual Stepper’s Family Cook-out and Dance Party A Blast!
Thornton Township President Frank M. Zuccarelli and its Board of Trustees co-hosted the July 2018 World’s Largest Stepper’s Family Cook-out and Dance Party held recently.
DINING ON THE FIVE EXTENDED TO LABOR DAY
Several businesses along 75th Street in Chatham are participating in the second annual Dining on the 5 event hosted by the Greater Chatham Initiative. Several participating restaurants are offering a $5 to $10 special for the duration of the event which has already been extended twice and will now last through Labor Day weekend.
Freedom Trail Hike Explores The History Of Underground Railroad In Illinois
The Little Calumet Underground Railroad Project recently hosted their first Walking the Freedom Trail hike in Beaubien Woods near the Little Calumet River. The hike was led by Tom Shepard and Larry McClellan who walked participants through the woods and told the story of the thousands of escaped slaves that came through the forest on their journey to freedom.
100 Black Men Of Atlanta, Inc. Names Anthony Flynn New Executive Director And Chief Operating Officer
Anthony Flynn is the newly appointed Executive Director and Chief Operating Officer (COO) of the 100 Black Men Of Atlanta, Inc. (The 100), one of the city’s most influential African-American organizations focused on leadership development, educational support, economic empowerment, and health and wellness. In his role as Executive Director and COO, Flynn will oversee the day to day operations, strategic planning, external relations, and fundraising initiatives for The 100.
Universal Music Group To Expand Strategic Operations Within Africa
Universal Music Group (UMG), the world leader in music-based entertainment, recently announced a signifi cant expansion in French-speaking Africa, with the launch of a new strategic division within French-speaking Africa markets with a focus on discovering and supporting local music talent in-order to maximize the commercial opportunities for artists and labels throughout French-speaking Africa to reach audiences globally.
CPL Invites Teens To Imagine Doing More
Chicago Public Library invites teens to participate in the 2018 Teen Summer Challenge, Imagine Doing More!, available now through September 1. CPL challenges teens to make a positive impact in their local environment, individually, in pairs or groups. Teens choose one environment to investigate and change (natural, neighborhood or social-emotional), and one of four possible actions (volunteering, creating campaigns, developing projects or coordinating programs). Learn more at chipublib.org/ImagineAtCPL.
DOGS ON PARADE IN THE SOUTH SUBURBS
The South Suburban Humane Society is currently in the midst of their second annual Dogs on Parade fundraiser. Seventeen dogs were painted this year by community businesses, organizations, and residents to display throughout the Village of Flossmoor from now until September.
Rep. Robin Kelly Honors Winner of Congressional Art Competition
United States Representative Robin Kelly recently invited Taylor Ausley, a local high school student who won the Congressional Art Competition in Illinois’s second district, to come to Washington D.C. and see her winning artwork at the U.S. Capital where it will hang for the next year.
5th Annual Walk Against Violence in Robbins
The Village of Robbins will host Its 5th Annual Walk Against Violence 3K RUN/1.5K WALK, on Saturday, July 21, 2018 from 8a.m. – 12p.m. departing from The Robbins Elk Lodge, 13600 S. Sawyer Ave. in Robbins, Illinois.
CHICAGO PUBLIC SCHOOLS RECEIVES COMMENTS ON PROPOSED $1 BILLION BUDGET
Chicago Public Schools recently released a proposed $1 billion budget and capital plan for the 2019 fiscal year. Following the release of the proposed spending plan, a series of public hearings were held across the city to receive public comment on the massive investment.
WEST SIDE ACTIVIST RECEIVES PEACE RUN TORCH-BEARER AWARD
Longtime Austin resident and community activist, George Lawson, was recently awarded the 2018 Torch-Bearer Award from Sri Chinmoy Oneness-Home Peace Run due to his commitment to community service for over 50 years. Lawson has been part of the Austin Green Team since it’s inception along with many other community benefit organizations on the west side of Chicago
Massage Envy Disrupts the Wellness Category with First-of-its-Kind Body Care Offering, CyMe™ Boost
Massage Envy, the leader in professional massage and skin care, is revolutionizing massage services with the introduction of CyMe™ Boost – a first-of-its-kind collection of skin serums that blend with Massage Envy-branded massage oils and creams to create personalized skin care for the entire body.
Collins: Governor’s Crosscheck veto hurts all Illinoisans
Governor Bruce Rauner has rejected legislation co-sponsored by State Senator Jacqueline Collins (D-Chicago) that would have ended Illinois’ participation in the Crosscheck system.
Arlington Park Race Track Adds More Experiences
A new study reveals that 74 percent of Americans believe having “experiences” is more important than having “stuff”. That statistic includes Baby Boomers and Millennials. Now, Arlington Park in Arlington Heights, wants you to experience Race Day to create memorable moments with family, friends or colleagues.
Thursday, July 19
LONG TIME HUMANITARIAN GIVING AWAY OVER A QUARTER OF A MILLION DOLLARS TO ASSIST HOMEOWNERS, SENIORS AND LESS FORTUNATE
Wilson commits BIG for the fourth straight year
– For more than 20 years, Humanitarian Dr. Willie Wilson has given away his heart…and his money, to those less fortunate and those who simply need a helping hand. This year, the man who puts his all into everything he does is showing no signs of slowing down. In fact, Wilson is stepping things up – bigger and better!
Wednesday, July 18
David M. Luna highlights how illicit trade poses many harms across the international community
Numerous international organizations have estimated that today’s global illicit markets, and various forms of “convergence crime”, account for several trillions of U.S. dollars every year, to include the trafficking of drugs, people (especially women and children), arms, counterfeit and pirated goods, illegal cigarettes and alcohol products, endangered wildlife, pillaged natural resources, and many other illicit commodities, corrupt proceeds and illicit financial flows.
LORETTO HOSPITAL PUSHING TO BRIDGE GAP IN HEALTHCARE DISPARITY
Gala, Youth Concert, Cog Hill Golf Outing Raise Funds to Bring Greater Access to Health Resources
The Loretto Hospital Foundation (LHF) honored Spencer Leak, Sr. and Spencer Leak, Jr., of Leak & Sons Funeral Homes, at its 10th Annual Spirit of Achievement Awards Gala held recently at Galleria Marchetti. The Leaks, known for a decades-long funerary business, were recognized for their outstanding leadership in public service. To date, the Foundation has raised nearly $1 million, but the need for support of health initiatives in the Austin community is greater.
Cook County Board President Visits The Citizen
Three major efforts that Preckwinkle is currently working on are the comprehensive Policy Roadmap for her third term, the redevelopment of Cook County Hospital, and the South Suburban Economic Growth Initiative. The Policy Roadmap is a countywide planning process that calls for participation from all residents, industries, civic partners, and stakeholders in Cook County to provide their direct input on what they want to see over the next five years.
Get Ready to Break in to the Old Joliet Prison
The Great Joliet Prison Break-In fundraiser will be taking place on Saturday, August 25 from 5:00pm to 11:00pm. Ticket holders will be able to step onto the historic prison yard and listen to the music of The Blooze Brothers, M&R Rush, Petty Cash and Hot Mess. while enjoying the tastes of various options from food trucks and beer vendors. The event is the grand opening and first major event of the “Old Joliet Prison,” which closed in 2002. The prison is featured in many movie and television projects, including The Blues Brothers and Prison Break.
A VILLAGE OF DOLTON BOARD MEETING RAISES CONCERNS ABOUT LACK OF POLICE
The Village of Dolton recently held a Committee of The Whole meeting where they discussed several current projects, programs, and concerns within the community. One woman, who identified herself as Beth, raised the questions of why three retired police officers have not been replaced in the Village.
How to Choose the Perfect Gloss For Your Lips
What is lip gloss? It is a product used in cosmetology to add a bit of color and some shine to a person’s lips. Sometimes its form is liquid; sometimes it is solid, but simple-to- apply. And the greatest news is that no gloss requires any prep work, comparing to lipstick, which makes it very convenient to reapply it during a day. So, are you lured into going for gloss once again? Th en let’s discuss how to pick the ideal gloss for you.
Local Craft Beer Festival Showcases South Side Brewers
The Illinois Craft Brewers Guild and Choose Chicago, the city’s tourism bureau, have partnered to bring the Chicago Friday Night Flights event to Pier 31 at the 31st Street Beach on July 20 from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. The event will feature neighborhood breweries and local craft beer along with music and food to enjoy. Sampling passes are $15 in advance or $20 at the door and include 10 three-ounce samples of craft beer.
Annual McDonald’s 365Black Awards Honors Notable Celebrities, Community Leaders and Entertainers
Several notable celebrities, community leaders and entertainers descended on the city of New Orleans once again to attend the 15th Annual McDonald’s 365Black Awards, held recently at the Ritz Carlton, New Orleans. They were joined by attendees from across the nation who converged to recognize this year’s recipients of the distinguished awards, including popular Political Commentator Symone Sanders, renown actress/activist Sheryl Lee Ralph, Black Girls CODE CEO Kimberly Bryant and next generation McDonald’s Owner/Operator Monique Vann-Brown.
Sarah Kim appointed String Orchestra and Preparatory String Director for the Hyde Park Youth Symphony
The Hyde Park Youth Symphony (HPYS) recently announced the appointment of Sarah Kim as String Orchestra and Preparatory String Director for the HPYS. In this position, Kim will be responsible for rehearsing the organization’s two string ensembles which focus on beginning and intermediate young musicians from area grade and middle schools.
COMMUNITY LEADERS EXPRESS CONCERNS ABOUT NEW BUSINESS
Members of several community organizations in Chatham and the surrounding areas along with the 6th Ward Alderman, Roderick Sawyer, recently held a meeting to discuss the many concerns surrounding King Food and Deli which recently opened on the corner of 87th St. and King Dr. in Chatham.
Southside Author Shares Her Story Of Childhood Abuse
Author of Bruises From My Mothers Love, Danette King, lives on the Southside of Chicago and recently re-released her novel that strongly mirrors the details of her upbringing and the abusive relationships she survived, specifically the one she had with her mother. King hopes that by sharing her story people will gain a better understanding of how to heal from the trauma of childhood abuse and to be more compassionate to children that may be suffering at home.
MAYOR OF MATTESON HOSTS INAUGURAL GOLF OUTING
The inaugural Friends of Sheila Chalmers-Currin Golf Outing will take place on July 19 at the Glenwoodie Golf Club in Glenwood, IL. The event is a fundraiser for the Village of Matteson and offers golf, breakfast, lunch, and dinner along with an opportunity to network with elected officials from Matteson, surrounding communities, and the Southland region as a whole.
Young Center at the University of Chicago Gets Support from Airbnb
Airbnb recently announced a donation to the Young Center -- a Chicago-based human rights organization that advocates for the rights and best interests of immigrant children -- in support of their efforts to reunify families.
OGDEN PARK HOSTS THINK OUTSIDE DA BLOCK PARTY
Think Outside Da Block, local non-profit organization, is hosting their Think Outside Da Block Party at Ogden Park, 6500 S. Racine Ave., in Englewood on July 28 from noon to 6 p.m. to bring together residents, community business owners, and members of the Chicago police force to encourage engagement and build stronger bonds between all of the people and organizations that make up the neighborhood.
Rev. Jackson Calls for Disbarment of D.A. Who Called Rep. Waters a “C” and a “Ghetto B”
Rev. Jesse L. Jackson, Sr. recently joined a group of ministers and elected officials at the New Hope Missionary Baptist Church, 1575 W. 17th St., San Bernardino, California to call for the disbarment of San Bernardino County Deputy District Attorney Michael Selyem who is under fire for calling Rep. Maxine Waters (D-CA) racist, hateful names and making veiled threats.
Local nonprofit recruiting professionals to mentor community college scholars
One Million Degrees (OMD), a Chicago nonprofit organization that empowers low-income, highly motivated community college students to succeed in school, in work, and in life—is now accepting applications for its volunteer coaches.
STATE OF THE AFRICAN AMERICAN MALE POST CONFERENCE REPORT RELEASED
The State of the African American Male Post Conference Report comes as a result of the State of the African American Male Conference that was held on Sept. 17 which was used bring community stakeholders together in an effort to create a plan of action to uplift the young black men in Chicago and give them the tools they need to break the cycle of poverty.
Wednesday, July 11
New Mural On The Major Taylor Trail Honors World Champion Cyclist
A new mural on the Major Taylor Trail honors the story of legendary cyclist Marshall “Major” Taylor.
HANDS OFF, PANTS ON ORDINANCE GOES INTO EFFECT
Starting on July 1, a new city ordinance went into effect known as the Hands Off, Pants On ordinance. The new safety measure provides certain hotel workers in Chicago with panic buttons that would allow them to call for help if they were in a dangerous situation while at work. Michelle Harris, Alderman of Chicago’s 8th Ward, was instrumental in passing the new safety measure.
Cast of Smokey Joe’s Cafe ready to make it happen
They say the neon lights are bright off Broadway! The new production of Smokey Joe’s Cafe: The Songs of Leiber & Stoller, officially opens on Sunday, July 22.
World’s fi rst AI-powered motion tracking fitness app turns your iPhone into a personal trainer
A new fitness app has launched which uses the world’s first AI-powered motion tracking technology to transform your iPhone into a virtual personal trainer who offers real-time feedback and helps you achieve the perfect squat.
40 UNDER 40 YOUNG WOMEN’S LEAGUE SUPPORTS SUCCESS FOR BLACK GIRLS
40 UNDER 40 YOUNG WOMEN’S LEAGUE SUPPORTS SUCCESS FOR BLACK GIRLS and In 2015, Cheresa Purnell founded the 40 Under 40 Young Women’s League, a philanthropic network of young professional African American women, ages 25 to 39, who support the development of girls as future leaders..
Annual Taste of Kenwood Event Offers Alternative To Downtown Food Festival
This weekend thousands of visitors and residents of Chicago will flock to Grant Park for the Taste of Chicago. Meanwhile, the Kenwood United Church of Christ will host their Annual Taste of Kenwood event on July 14 from noon to 6 p.m. to offer community members an alternative to the downtown food festival
Englewood Organization Receives Grant To Create A Safe And Peaceful Community
Grow Greater Englewood recently received a grant from The Chicago Fund for Safe and Peaceful Communities that will allow the organization to train 20 individuals in restorative justice practices and peace circle facilitation as well as launch the inaugural Englewood Healing Event that will happen Aug. 19 on the Englewood Line.
Students get 'Full-Ride Scholarships' to SSC
The South Suburban Chicago Chapter of the Links presented $15,000 in scholarship funds to South Suburban College students Jasmine Carter (Country Club Hills), Cherise Miskell (Dolton), and Adeline Hodge (South Holland) at the SSC Foundation’s Academic Achievement Reception May 8th. All three women have GPAs ranging from 3.2-4.0. Carter is studying Radiologic Technology, Miskell is a Science major and Hodge is pursuing her Business degree.
IIT RECEIVES RECOGNITION FOR ONLINE EDUCATION PROGRAMS
SR Education Group, an education research publisher, recently named the Illinois Institute of Technology (IIT) as one of the best online schools for Women in STEM and for Economic Mobility in 2018. IIT offers a variety of online programs and courses from almost every college, center, and institute at the university and both on-campus and online students take the same courses taught by the same world-class faculty.
CLOSURE OF ST. JAMES HOSPITAL COULD CAUSE LONGER WAIT TIMES FOR EMERGENCY SERVICES
For the last two years, South Suburban residents, emergency service providers, hospital staff and municipal government officials have been working together to prepare for the closure of Franciscan Health’s St James Hospital in Chicago Heights.
Kroger and Nuro Partner to Pilot Autonomous Delivery
The Kroger Co. (NYSE: KR) and Nuro recently announced a new partnership to redefine the grocery customer experience for Americans by piloting an on-road, fully autonomous delivery experience.
EVENT HELD TO PROMOTE NATIONAL PTSD AWARENESS DAY FOR 20TH WARD COMMUNITY
Honorable Committeeman Kevin Bailey and Social Change recently hosted a national Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) awareness day for the 20th ward Veterans and community residents.
Wednesday, July 4
West Side School Receives Needed Improvements From Team8 Tour
The Team8 Tour is a national campaign that encourages young people across the country to make healthy choices, build character and learn critical life lessons to inspire them to be catalysts for positive social change. The initiative is led by the Cal Ripken, Sr. Foundation, UnitedHealthcare, and CBS EcoMedia and will travel to eight cities, including Chicago, across the country to engage volunteers in support of high schools and local community centers.
Free Lunch Academy Serves Food For Thought
In 2014, Calvin King founded the Free Lunch Academy, a Chicago-based traveling artistic outreach program, with the hopes of meeting students where they are to teach them how to eradicate bullying in their own schools and communities. The organization uses live performances, workshops, and career development opportunities to inspire young people to be each other's buddies instead of bullies.
Summer Bootcamp For Teens Focuses On Film, Photography, And Entrepreneurship
On July 9, the Teenpreneur Bootcamp will kick off at The Woodlawn, 1200 E. 79th St. The six-week summer program, organized by Nicole Bridges and Tiffany Joi, is for teens from 13 to 18 years old who want to learn more about film, photography, and how to be a successful entrepreneur in a creative field.
Reset Your Life Goals Now! Tips for A Summer Recharge!
Whether it’s upcoming vacation plans or the kids being home from school, summertime is the hardest season for keeping up with your business goals and plans. But what if there was a way to turn your summer slip-ups into strengths?
Century Old Organization Extends Early Childhood Development Resources To South Suburbs
The Chicago Child Care Society (CCCS), a non-profit organization that provides children, youth, and families the tools to reach their full potential, recently expanded some of their services to several of the south suburban communities in Cook County. The goal of extending their reach is to provide in-home developmental resources for young children and families.
Nigerian American artist Ogorchukwu releases debut poetry book ‘the geometry of being Black’
revolutionary is that it isn’t just about Black suffering. Beginning at suffering, and ending at empowerment, “the geometry of being Black” is a journey about healing racial trauma.
Chicago Park District transfers historic archival material to CPL’s Special Collections
Chicago Public Library (CPL) and Chicago Park District (CPD) recently announced the addition of more than 161,000 photographs and drawings of public parks to CPL’s Special Collections. The transfer of CPD’s historic archival material to CPL’s Special Collections enriches the telling of Chicago’s story, particularly with regard to how the demographics and populations served by the city’s parks have changed over time.
Pompadour Not Just for Misters Anymore
We’ve finally answered the call in having a product line for both men and women,” says Zack Henry, CEO of Mister Pompadour, a popular hair product brand.
SOUTH SUBURBAN MUSICIAN PERFORMS AT MAMBY ON THE BEACH MUSIC FESTIVAL
Longtime Village of Homewood resident, Keya Trammell, also known as Gifted Keys, recently headlined the Community Stage at Mamby on the Beach music festival. The south suburban artist creates music that she labels as a fusion of jazz, soul and funk.
Partnership leverages expertise to improve outcomes, lower costs
Aunt Martha’s Health & Wellness and Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children’s Hospital of Chicago recently announced a joint effort to improve the health outcomes and the care experience for children, caregivers, and families involved with the Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS). Built around the patient-centered model, the pilot program will feature integrated primary care, behavioral health care, and care coordination services to remove barriers and improve access to care.
Cook County Residents Roll into Summer with Dockless Bikesharing in the Forest Preserves
Integrating new dockless technology into its bikeshare program, the Forest Preserves of Cook County (FPCC) is making it even easier to enjoy more than 300 miles of paths and trails. Through a pilot program in partnership with HOPR and Bike and Roll Chicago, Cook County residents can “Bike the Preserves” without hauling a bike from home. With 500 dockless bikes to share (up from 50), and 50 hubs planned throughout the FPCC’s 70,000 acres of wild and wonderful, more families from across Chicago and Cook County can get active this summer with fun, affordable biking in the Forest Preserves.
THE GOOD LIFE GLOBAL TOUR COMES TO CHICAGO
Recently, The Good Life Tour stopped in Chicago at the Supreme Life Building, 3501 S. King Dr., to host an inspirational and informative business and marriage boot camp that teaches men and women how to prepare for life, marriage and business.
CITY COLLEGES OF CHICAGO CHANCELLOR SPEAKS AT CITY CLUB
The City Club of Chicago recently hosted Juan Salgado, chancellor of the City Colleges of Chicago (CCC), as their honored guest and speaker. During the afternoon event, Salgado spoke about some of the accomplishments of his first year as chancellor and his vision for the future.
President of Chicago Urban League Steps Down
The Chicago Urban League was established in 1916 and was one of the first partners of the National Urban League in the United States. The purpose then was to focus on the needs of African Americans as they were relocating from the south to the north during the great migration, according to the Chicago Urban League. The organization has since been operating for over a century with the consistent goal of creating a strong African American community in Chicago.
500 LOCAL HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS JOIN NIKE TO KICK OFF THE SUMMER WITH THE ULTIMATE BASKETBALL CELEBRATION
In 1988, Nike inspired a revolution in sport participation. That inspiration came from a series of advertisements tagged with three simple words: Just Do It. Since then, the phrase has become Nike’s guiding philosophy for innovative product, memorable athletic experiences and industry-defining services. To mark the 30th anniversary of this call to action, Nike is creating a series of physical spaces and experiences across the country that enable new generations of athletes to enter that chase for greatness.