Monday, September 30
Ford Kicks Off First Day of Student College Assistance Applications at Michele Clark High School
State Representative La Shawn K. Ford, D-Chicago, and Michele Clark Academic Prep Magnet High School Principal Charles Anderson are encouraging high school seniors to get an early start on both college and financial aid applications. Rep. Ford and Principal Anderson will join the Illinois Student Assistance Commission (ISAC) to launch College Changes Everything Month on October 1, 2019, during a press conference to announce millions of dollars of financial aid available for families in Illinois.
Friday, September 27
American Black Inventors and Innovators Volume 3
NEW!! American Black Inventors and Innovators Volume 3 Volume III has more than 685 Pages of Illustrations/ Specifications, and 55 Biographical Stories, documenting the lives and patents of great Black women and men Inventors for the months of July, August and September only.
NEXTLEVEL HEALTH PARTNERS, INC., WINS AN APEX AWARD FROM THE ILLINOIS ASSOCIATION OF MEDICAID HEALTH PLANS
The Medicaid-Managed Care Company Was Recognized for Improving Efficiency, Care Coordination and Readmission Rates by Partnering with Health-Tech Company PatientPing
NextLevel Health Partners, Inc., a Medicaid managed care company in Illinois, received the Business and Operational Performance APEX award from the Illinois Association of Medicaid Health Plans (IAMHP) at IAMHP’s Annual Conference last night. NextLevel Health was awarded for improving care coordination, efficiency and readmission rates through their innovative partnership with PatientPing, a health technology company that connects providers to seamlessly coordinate patient care.
Thursday, September 26
Homewood Science Center’s Girls STEAM Ahead Success Program to Receive Grant
Commissioner Miller announces Cook County CDBG funding will be awarded
The Cook County Bureau of Economic Development will award Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funding to support Homewood Science Center’s Girls STEAM Ahead Success program, a workforce development program for 9th-grade female students from low-income families in Rich Township High School District 227. Cook County Commissioner Donna Miller (D-6th) stated “This grant funding addresses gender, racial, and economic inequities in STEAM education and careers, and is in alignment with Cook County’s foundational belief in the value of equity.”
Wednesday, September 25
Award-Winning Author Ta-Nehisi Coates to Discuss "The Water Dancer" at The DuSable Museum
Award-winning author Ta-Nehisi Coates will discuss his first novel, "The Water Dancer," at the DuSable Museum of African American History on Thursday, October 3, 2019 from 7:00 PM until 8:15 PM
Black Homeownership Plummets to 'Crisis' Level, New NAREB President Promises Strategies for Increase
The new "commander and chief" of Black Homeownership in America has released a new strategy for raising the numbers that have plummeted to percentages below the time of the Fair Housing Act of 1968. But accomplishing that fete could prove more than daunting as the 2019 State of Housing in Black America (SHIBA) report - released this week - reveals the situation to be at crisis level, according to leaders in Black homeownership.
Organization Works To Save Lives By Collecting Bullets From Community Members
Bullets 4 Life is a nonprofit organization that works across the United States, including in Chicago, to reduce gun violence. The organization regularly hosts community workshops to raise awareness about gun violence and invites individuals to come and turn in or donate their live bullets. The bullets are then torn apart and made into jewelry to symbolize that one less bullet on the street can mean one less life is lost to senseless gun violence.
Annual Event Presented by ASCAP Rhythm & Soul Department Honors Female Leaders in Entertainment
Th e American Society of Composers, Authors and Publishers (ASCAP) has announced the honorees for its upcoming 11th annual ASCAP Women Behind the Music event, slated for October 9 in Los Angeles. Th is year, ASCAP will recognize Artist/Songwriter Victoria Monét (Ariana Grande, Mary J. Blige, Chris Brown), Roc Nation Co- President Shari Byrant and Capitol Records Vice President of Artist Relations Britney Davis as major forces in the industry who continue to make an impact on entertainment culture.
STATE REPRESENTATIVE SIGNS PROCLAMATION RECOGNIZING SEPTEMBER AS RECOVERY MONTH
For the second year in a row, State Representative Robert Rita (D- Blue Island) hosted a community event at the Calumet Township Senior Center in honor of National Recovery Month. During the event, Rep. Rita signed a proclamation recognizing September as Recovery Month and invited a substance abuse addiction expert to give a presentation to attendees about different aspects of recovery.
Community College Opens Permanent Food Pantry For Students
At the start of the school year, Kennedy-King College officially opened its Healthy Student Market which is a permanent food pantry on campus in Englewood where students can come to receive fresh produce and shelf-stable items at no cost.
370 Healthcare Groups Send Letter to Congress Urging Prior Authorization Reform in Medicare Advantage
The American College of Rheumatology (ACR), along with 369 other leading patient, physician, and healthcare professional organizations, sent a letter to Congress urging passage of the Improving Seniors’ Timely Access to Care Act of 2019 (H.R. 3107), a bipartisan bill to protect Medicare Advantage beneficiaries from prior authorization requirements that delay or deny access to medically necessary care.
HIGHLY ANTICIPATED STEM HIGH SCHOOL FINALLY OPENS ON THE SOUTH SIDE
Chicago Public School (CPS) students have been back in their classrooms for almost a month now and that includes the first freshman class ever to attend the brand new Englewood STEM High School, 6835 S. Normal Blvd., on the south side of Chicago.
South Suburban Girl Hosts Fundraiser And Blood Drive For Children With Sickle Cell Disease
A 9-year-old resident from Matteson, Oliva Shorter, recently hosted her third annual Olivia’s Sickle Cell Awareness Party at the Matteson Community Center. Like the children who will benefit from the party, Olivia lives with sickle cell disease and before her 7th birthday, she decided she no longer wants to have a party for just herself, but a party for all the kids living with sickle cell disease.
Recent Vandalism Damages Community Book Sharing Box At South Side Park
Brown Memorial Park, 634 E. 86th St., in Chatham was recently vandalized by an unknown party who dispersed trash throughout the park and damaged the recently dedicated free library box at the park where residents can find free books to enjoy.
Annual Gala Will Recognize Volunteers Who Advocate For Children In County Foster Care
Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) of Cook County, a nonprofit organization providing children in foster care with courtroom advocates, will host its annual fall gala, A Whimsical Evening, at the Chicago Cultural Center, 76 E. Washington St., at 6 p.m. on Oct. 23.
Black Led STEM Nonprofit Celebrates 10th Anniversary
Project SYNCERE, a local nonprofit focusing on science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) learning for youth, will soon celebrate its 10th anniversary since being founded by three African American engineers in 2009. Project SYNCERE will commemorate its 10th anniversary by hosting the inaugural Power of Ten gala on Oct. 10.
“REAL WOMEN WEAR BATES” IS NOT JUST A SHOW, IT IS A STATE OF MIND
Noted fashion designer fills runway with ‘non-models’ for annual fashion event
Designer Barbara Bates believes that every woman is entitled to wear beautifully tailored fashion no matter their age or size. That is the premise behind the Annual “Real Women Wear Bates” fashion show on October 26. The women strutting the catwalk will be career women, housewives, retirees and a few recognizable faces. Special invited host for the event is comedian Sinbad. The show will be at Venue West, 221 N. Paulina Street. Champagne reception is from 4:00 p.m. - 5:30 p.m.; Fashion show begins at 5:30 p.m.
CPS needs checks and balances to protect students
A recently released blistering report from the U.S. Department of Education underscores one basic fact: CPS is in dire need of basic checks and balances. Yet lack of accountability is baked into CPS governance, with no independent school board answerable to students, their families and Chicago residents, no transparent oversight, and no democratic mechanisms to hold officials responsible.
Chicago Association of REALTORS® to Install Maurice Hampton as 2020 President
Incoming CAR President Wants to Empower REALTORS® to Tap into Their Civic Leadership in the Year Ahead
Incoming CAR President Wants to Empower REALTORS® to Tap into Their Civic Leadership in the Year Ahead
Columbia College Chicago opens first-ever Student Center
Columbia College Chicago has officially opened its first-ever $50 million Student Center , creating a new hub for collaboration, creativity, and innovation at the heart of the college for creatives in Chicago’s South Loop.
Purpose to Paycheck expert helps women learn how to make multiple streams of income
Best Selling Author and Purpose to Paycheck expert Nicole Roberts Jones will continue her mission of empowering women entrepreneurs with her 4th Annual ‘Be The Answer’ intensive on October 4th– 5th, 2019 at the Boston Woburn Hilton Hotel.
From Personal Tragedy To Re-Inventing The Wig
Personal tragedy, a love for wigs and a vision to address all of the deficiencies she saw in design and quality led visionary Lili Clarke to re-invent the wig. For comfort, durability, quality, and a luxurious look and feel, the Lili Clarke wig and hair extensions are meant to be the equivalent of what “Hermes” is to fashion.
Attention: 60,000 homeowners should update their mailing address at cookcountytreasurer.com
Paper applications no longer required
About 60,000 property owners in Cook County should use cookcountytreasurer.com to update the name or mailing address on their tax bills, another example of how the internet can make things easier for taxpayers, Treasurer Maria Pappas said today.
Hugs No Slugs Is Hosting The Fourth Annual Back To School Drive
Englewood Barbie Is Rolling Out Red Carpet For Every Student To Celebrate The Start of A New School Year
TODAY!! BACK TO SCHOOL GIVEAWAYS FOR CHI STUDENTS WITH SURPRISE SPECIAL GUESTS
Friday, September 20
CHAMBER OF COMMERCE COLLABORATES TO CREATE MORE PUBLIC MURALS IN THE COMMUNITY
Over the summer, the Southeast Chicago Chamber of Commerce has been partnering with AB Productions to host an ongoing series of artistic community-based events called Xsite. The events acted as a point of engagement for the community and small businesses in the area and also showcased several new public murals.
CHA, partners open development bringing affordable housing, Target to Rogers Park
Transit-oriented development delivers more than 100 units of affordable and market-rate housing
The Chicago Housing Authority and its partners officially opened an innovative mixed-use development Thursday that has brought a new Target and affordable/market-rate apartments to Rogers Park.
Chicago Pre-College Science and Engineering to host Fall Orientation & Registration this Saturday
CPS Board chair Miguel del Valle to address group
The Chicago Pre-College Science and Engineering Program (ChiS&E) today announced it will host its Fall 2019 Parent Orientation & Registration on Saturday, September 21, 2019 at South Shore International College Prep High School, 1955 E 75th St., from 9:00 a.m. – 11:30 a .m. Guest speaker for the free event will be Miguel del Valle recently appointed President of the Chicago Board of Education.
Navy Pier Presents Pier Pumpkin Lights: Chicago’s Newest, Free Pumpkin Pop-up Experience
Chicago’s iconic lakefront destination will transform into an experiential fall spectacle with nearly 1,000 pumpkins from October 1 – November 2, along with food and drink specials and Halloween fest
Navy Pier Presents Pier Pumpkin Lights: Chicago’s Newest, Free Pumpkin Pop-up Experience. Chicago’s iconic lakefront destination will transform into an experiential fall spectacle with nearly 1,000 pumpkins from October 1 – November 2, along with food and drink specials and Halloween festivities throughout the month
Social use of marijuana could be topic for follow-up legislation
Trailer bill ‘won’t relitigate’ past arguments, could address local authority to allow social consumption
Some of the lead negotiators of the law to legalize adult-use marijuana in Illinois are seeking to provide clarity on a provision that gives local municipalities control over which facilities, if any, would be authorized to allow cannabis consumption.
Community Health System Continues to Invest in Next Generation of Healthcare Providers as Demand for Primary Care Providers Continues to Grow
Erie Family Health Centers Adds Two New Residency Programs, Trains Over 200 Professionals
As the demand for primary care physicians continues to grow faster than its supply, Erie Family Health Centers continues to take a leadership role in narrowing the deficit by investing in the next generation of the primary healthcare workforce trained to work in community health. As one of the first Federally Qualified Health Centers to host a Teaching Health Center Graduate Medical Education Program, Erie has been a leader for almost a decade, adding to the supply of primary care providers.
CHICAGO BAR ASSOCIATION TEAMING WITH CHICAGO PUBLIC LIBRARY TO OFFER FREE LEGAL INFORMATION
CHICAGO BAR ASSOCIATION TEAMING WITH CHICAGO PUBLIC LIBRARY TO OFFER FREE LEGAL INFORMATION
CARTHAGE ANNOUNCES 30% REDUCTION IN TUITION
Building on generous financial assistance program, Carthage moves to further demystify cost of college
President John Swallow announced recently that Carthage will reduce tuition to $31,500 (from the current $45,100) to better reflect the amount most students pay after receiving financial aid. The change, approved by the board of trustees, will apply to all new and returning undergraduate students
Jesse White Joins CPD Supt. Eddie Johnson, IDOT, NHTSA & State Police to Encourage Proper Car Seat Usage
Child Safety Seat Check to follow; National Child Passenger Safety Week is Sept. 15-21
Illinois Secretary of State Jesse White is reminding parents and caregivers to secure children in the correct safety seat as Sept. 15-21 marks National Child Passenger Safety Week. As partners in this important message, White joined Chicago Police Department Superintendent Eddie Johnson, the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT), the Illinois State Police, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), a doctor from Northwestern Memorial Hospital and a father, whose daughter survived a serious car crash without any injury because she was secured properly in a child safety seat
Wednesday, September 18
Fifth Annual Fall Fest Returns to Lincoln Park Zoo
Lincoln Park Zoo is embracing autumn in Chicago with the fifth annual Fall Fest, kicking off Sept. 27. This exciting, FREE admission, family-friendly celebration lets guests experience harvest fun in the heart of the city, from picking the perfect pumpkin to ‘swimming’ in the corn pool.
Candidate For Illinois Supreme Court Hopes To Be Second Black Judge Elected To Serve
Appellate Court Justice Nathaniel Howse Jr. is running for election to the Illinois Supreme Court as one of three 1st District judges. Howse is running for a seat that was vacated by the retirement of Justice Charles E. Freeman.
Young Adults Exposed to Incarceration as Children Have Higher Odds of Future Depression, PTSD
Young adults with childhood history of both parental incarceration and juvenile justice involvement were nearly three times more likely to have depression or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) compared to peers without any experience with the criminal justice system, according to a study published in JAMA Network Open. They also were nearly twice as likely to have anxiety compared to young adults without childhood exposure to incarceration.
Study finds women at greater risk of depression, anxiety after hysterectomy
Hysterectomy is associated with an increased risk of long-term mental health issues, especially depression and anxiety, according to a cohort study by Mayo Clinic researchers involving nearly 2,100 women.
SOUTH SUBURBAN SCHOOL DISTRICT EXPLORES CLOSING FLAGSHIP HIGH SCHOOL
Rich Township High School District 227 is currently considering the closure of Rich East High School, 300 Sauk Trail, in Park Forest due to what the board claims to be a decreasing student body population and the need to make significant repairs to all of the district’s three buildings.
Vocal, Visible, and Vigilant: The Black Women’s Agenda, Inc. Hosts 42nd Annual Symposium Town Hall & Awards Luncheon
Six months away from the first 2020 presidential primaries and caucuses, The Black Women’s Agenda, Inc. (BWA) hosted its 42nd Annual Symposium Town Hall and Awards Luncheon recently, encouraging the nearly 1,800 attendees to flex their political muscle and to help usher in the changes that they want to see in their communities and across the nation.
Cole Haan Teams Up With Rodarte To Disrupt High Fashion With Innovation
Cole Haan, the iconic American lifestyle brand and retailer has announced its collaboration with famed, independent fashion house Rodarte. Laura and Kate Mulleavy, the sisters behind Rodarte, have put their signature aesthetic on Cole Haan’s groundbreaking Grand Ambition collection that sets a new standard for women’s dress footwear and handbags. Cole Haan and Rodarte have come together to tell a story of two brands united by a common desire for continuous innovation.
Celebrity Speakers Announced for Chicago Ultimate Women’s Expo 2019
The Chicago Ultimate Women’s Expo presents a star-studded, empowering and entertaining weekend on October 5-6, 2019 at the Donald E. Stephens Convention Center.
Children’s Party in Matteson Brings Awareness to Sickle Cell Disease
For the third year, Village of Matteson Trustee Adam Shorter and his wife Danielle Shorter are inviting the public to come out and enjoy Olivia's Sickle Cell Awareness Party, for children with sickle cell, sickle beta thalassemia, and sickle cell trait. The event takes place on Sunday, September 22nd at the Matteson Community Center and will include dancing, food, face painting, balloon animals and more. The children's party is from 11 am to 4 pm. Blood donations will also be accepted.
Nonprofit Organization Works To Rebuild After Fire Destroys Headquarters
After experiencing a fire and having their headquarters condemned and demolished, Assata’s Daughters founder, Page May, did what was necessary to make sure the nonprofit organization’s programming continued throughout the summer. This meant May had to host programs outside, in her apartment, and borrow space from other community organizations.
Upcoming Comedy For A Cause Event Raises Funds For Families Impacted By Gun Violence
A south side nonprofit, Centers for New Horizons, will soon host its second annual Comedy for a Cause fundraiser on Sept. 19 from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. at The Promontory, 5311 S. Lake Park Ave., in Hyde Park.
Gaining real-world business experience at UIC’s Starbucks
University of Illinois at Chicago business majors Safaa Sarefian, Rosemary Arevalo and Matt Carey are quickly learning that top-shelf brands like Starbucks will attract crowds from sunup to sundown — and if any entrepreneur is to succeed, he or she must be ready for them.
DOI Helps Illinois Life Insurance Consumers Collect More than $15 Million in 2019
The Illinois Department of Insurance can help you find out if you’re owed a portion of the millions of dollars in life insurance benefits that go unclaimed every year. So far in 2019, IDOI has helped consumers find and collect more than $15 million from lost or unclaimed life insurance policies.
Shh…Your Devices May Be Listening to You
We have become accustomed to carrying our mobile phones and tablet devices everywhere we go. The mobile phone has essentially become an integral part of our everyday lives, helping us to communicate, make payments and socialize. Unfortunately, the smart devices of today are equipped with many different types of sensors that may be listening in on our conversations.
United Airlines Launches Online Campaign for Hurricane Dorian Relief Efforts
United Airlines has launched a Crowdrise fundraising campaign for those affected by Hurricane Dorian. Donations will support the airline’s relief partners that provide assistance in the United States and internationally: American Red Cross, Airlink, Americares and Global Giving.
Chicago State University Host Community Curation Events To Digitize Historical Document
During September, Chicago State University, 9501 S. King Dr., is hosting the National Museum of African American History and Culture’s traveling Community Curation program which allows individuals to have their family photos, videos, and documents digitized for free. The purpose of the program is to encourage intergenerational storytelling in the African American community.
SOUTH SUBURBAN STUDENT NAMED GOLDEN APPLE SCHOLAR
Golden Apple, an Illinois nonprofit working to prepare, support and mentor teachers, recently announced the 263 members of it’s 2019 Golden Apple Scholars of Illinois cohort. Ashley Coleman, from Harvey, is one of those 263 members and as a result will have access to a variety of resources provided by Golden Apple as she obtains her degree and goes on to become a full-time teacher.
FORMER SPECIAL EDUCATION TEACHER HOPES TO TRANSFORM EDUCATION SYSTEM IN CHICAGO
After working as a special education teacher for 13 years, Damien Howard decided to start his own business, Clever Characters, as a way of transforming the how inner-city students experience education.
Report Shows Black Population in Chicago Currently Declining
State Representative La Shawn K. Ford (D-CH), Chairperson of Higher Education Appropriations is working with UIC ahead of the 2020 U.S Census to increase an accurate count. A startling report is sounding the alarm on the declining black population in Chicago. A report by the UIC Great Cities Institute shows the black population in Chicago is currently declining in every predominant black community in Chicago. Chicago’s black population is on track to shrink to 665,000 by the year 2030
CHICAGO GETS ITS FIRST TRUTH AND RACIAL HEALING LEADER
Rico was selected after a six-month search led by the TRHT Greater Chicago search committee and Morten Group. As director, he also will serve on the TRHT Greater Chicago Leadership Advisory Committee, whose members include Ric Estrada of Metropolitan Family Services, Angelique Power, from the Field Foundation of Illinois, and Daniel Ash, from the Chicago Community Trust.
Wednesday, September 11
CCC to host its 15th Annual Silas Purnell College Expo on Saturday, September 21, 2019 at Tuley Park
The Chesterfield Community Council (CCC) will host the 15th Annual "Silas Purnell College Expo" on Saturday, September 21, 11:00 a.m. at Tuley Park Field House, 90th & King Drive.
Public Rally Celebrates 56th Anniversary of Dr. King’s I Have a Dream Speech
In August of 1963, during the March on Washington for Jobs and Freedom, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. gave his iconic I Have a Dream speech at the Lincoln Memorial where he called for an end to racism in the United States.
Dove Men+Care Signs “Biggest Names” in Sports as the Faces of Dove Men+Care SPORTCARE
Though thousands of men participate in sports and exercise each day, they still do not see themselves represented in the athletes trending in social and traditional media. In fact, new research from Dove Men+Care confirms nearly 7-in-10 men want to see everyday athletes better represented in sports media, so the brand is shifting conversations from the professionals to the everyday athletes whose stories deserve to be celebrated.
Oprah Winfrey to Serve as Keynote Speaker at the 17th Annual UNCF Maya Angelou Women Who Lead Luncheon
UNCF (United Negro College Fund) recently announced that global media leader, producer, actress and philanthropist Oprah Winfrey will headline the 17th annual Maya Angelou Women Who Lead Luncheon as keynote speaker on Saturday, Sept. 28. This signature fundraising event presented by Wells Fargo is named after loyal UNCF supporter, the late Dr. Maya Angelou and honors local women whose footprints positively impact the Charlotte regional community. Proceeds from the luncheon benefit students in North Carolina and the historically black colleges and universities (HBCUs) that support them.
City of Chicago Announces Expansion of Flexible Housing Pool
Thanks to a $1.5 million investment from Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Illinois and Advocate Aurora Health over the next three years, the City of Chicago was able to announce the expansion of the Chicago and Cook County Flexible Housing Pool which supports residents experiencing homelessness with wrap-around services and access to affordable housing.
CPS Class of 2019 Earns Record-High $1.47 Billion in Scholarship Offers with More Students Earning College Credits Than Ever Before
Highest-Ever Percentage of Graduates Earned Early College and Career Credentials; Class of 2019 Sets Record by Earning $1.47 Billion in Scholarship Offers
Mayor Lori E. Lightfoot and Chicago Public Schools (CPS) CEO Dr. Janice K. Jackson today announced that the class of 2019 received the most college scholarship offers in district history —$1.47 billion based on preliminary data —and that a record 48.6 percent of graduates earned early college credentials while in high school. Both early college and career credentials and scholarships help make college and other postsecondary paths more attainable and affordable for students.
September Town Halls Allow City Residents To Learn More About The 2020 Budget
Mayor Lori E. Lightfoot is leading a series of budget town hall meetings throughout the city to ensure residents have an opportunity to learn more about the budget process, the upcoming 2020 budget, and some ways the city will address its financial challenges.
Unique Program Aimed At Reducing Teacher Shortages Lets Students Realize Their Dreams
Roosevelt University and the Chicago Public Schools have launched a unique residency program aimed at reducing teacher shortages in the high-need areas of Early Childhood and Special Education.
LARGEST CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT PLAN IN CTA HISTORY AIMS TO BE AS DIVERSE AS CTA RIDERSHIP
As the Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) prepares for it’s largest capital improvement plan ever, the CTA and Walsh-Fluor, the projects main contractor, are working together to make sure that the project’s workforce is just as diverse as the CTA’s millions of daily riders.
Joan B. Johnson Co-Founder of Johnson Products Company Dies At 89
Joan Betty Henderson Johnson (89), transitioned peacefully at her home surrounded by her family September 6, 2019. Born October 16, 1929 in Chicago to Christine Wharton and Alonzo Henderson. As a child she spent a great deal of time with her godmother Lilian Harrison whom she greatly admired. Joan was married to her high school sweetheart George E. Johnson, Sr. for 69 years … and the mother of four children. Johnson Products Company was the First Black-Owned Company to be Publically Traded on American Stock Exchange.
AIRSS Announces Partnership with Miss Illinois
Combined #IncludeTheArts Initiative Puts Thousands of Art Postcards in State Schools
Miss Illinois 2019 Ariel Beverly and the Association of Illinois Rural and Small Schools have joined forces to advocate for increased access to arts and general education in Illinois schools. Miss Beverly began her reign as Miss Illinois after being crowned in June at the state competition in Marion. Beverly, who grew up in East Moline, is a former high school art teacher who recognizes the important role that arts education plays in young people’s success. The overarching goal of her reign as Miss Illinois is to have at least one arts education teacher in every school.
Harper Tours Urban Farm with State Agriculture Director
State Rep. Sonya Harper, D-Chicago, recently welcomed Illinois Department of Agriculture Director John Sullivan to Chicago to tour Growing Home, an urban farming organization in Chicago’s Englewood neighborhood.
Brown Honored Among Most Influential Women in Corporate America
Danielle Brown, vice president and chief information officer for Brunswick Corporation (NYSE: BC), was recently honored among the “Most Influential Women in Corporate America” as chosen by Savoy Magazine. Savoy Magazine, which announced its 2019 designees in its recent Summer issue, states that this group comprises the “definitive listing of African American Women achievers impacting corporate America.” The full list can be viewed online at SavoyNetwork.com.
Celebrity Comedian To Host Upcoming Destination Jazz Experience
Many remember Mark Curry from the classic 90’s sitcom Hanging With Mr. Cooper and many also know him as a stand-up comedian. In just a couple months, Curry will add a new title to his resume as the host of the Life Luxe Jazz Los Cabos Jazz Experience in Mexico.
Lights, Camera, Napkin! Chicago Gourmet returns to Millennium Park in September
Live from the red carpet! Title sponsor Bon Appétit, presenting sponsor Southern Glazer’s Wine & Spirits and founding sponsor Illinois Restaurant Association have announced the complete starring lineup for the 12th annual Chicago Gourmet, taking place in Millennium Park September 27-29, 2019. With a theme of Lights, Camera, Napkin!, this year’s larger-than-life festival shines a spotlight on the exciting connections between the culinary and entertainment worlds.
CHICAGO SOUTHLAND ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION PREPARES TO GIVE ANNUAL AWARDS
The Chicago Southland Economic Development Corporation is preparing to host it’s 5th Annual Jack Lanigan Sr. Memorial Big Shoes Award event. The event will take place on Sept. 12 from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. at the Ravisloe Country, 18231 Park Ave., in Homewood.
$4 Million Grant Supports Behavioral And Mental Health Services For South Suburban Youth
Children’s Research Triangle along with the Partnership for Resilience recently announced they have received a 5-year, $4 million grant from the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration as part of the Linking Actions for Unmet Needs in Children’s Health Grant Program (Project LAUNCH). Over the five years, the grant will directly impact mental and behavioral health services for children in the south suburbs.
Chicago South Side Film Festival Gives Local Filmmakers A Platform To Screen Their Work
The Third Annual Chicago South Side Film Festival will soon take place from Sept. 29 to Oct. 6. at various locations on the south side of Chicago. The festival will showcase several films from south side film-makers and provide them with a local platform to share their work with the community.
How One School On The Far South Side Has Utilized The Opportunity Schools Program
When Principal Cynthia Treadwell took over at Ira F. Aldridge Elementary School just four years ago, she said there was somewhat of a revolving door at the school. According to information provided by Chicago Public Schools, the high turnover rate had a negative impact on the more than 180 students who attended the school. A level 2+ Chicago Public School, located on 630 E. 131st St. in Riverdale, 90.7 percent of the students at Aldridge Elementary are black.
Wednesday, September 4
NATIONAL NONPROFIT OPENS DONATION AND GIVING CENTER FOR KIDS AT SOUTH SIDE YMCA
Cradles to Crayons, a nonprofit organization providing kids with the everyday essentials they need to succeed, recently celebrated the opening of their South Hub at the South Side YMCA, 6330 S Stony Island Ave., in Woodlawn. The new South Hub will be a place where the community can donate items for local children and where partnering organizations come to pick up the items they need for the kids they serve.
Ward Meeting Shares Community Updates and Obama Center Construction Opportunities
Fifth Ward Alderman, Leslie Hairston, recently held her monthly Ward Meeting at La Rabida Children’s Hospital. During the meeting, Hairston gave information about what she has been working on along with presentations from the city’s Department of Streets and Sanitation, the Chicago Department of Transportation, and Lakeside Alliance regarding the Obama Presidential Center.
Riverdale Park District Basketball Team Was Recently Crowned Thornton Township B-Ball Tournament 2019 Champions
The Third annual Taste of Thornton Township basketball tournament crowned the Riverdale Park District team as champions. This year the tournament was bigger in several ways attracting eight team participation.
Karen Jordan and Christian Farr to Emcee Cook County Juvenile Temporary Detention Center Foundation 10th Anniversary Gala “Converging on the Positive
The talented and dynamic television husband-wife duo of Karen Jordan, ABC7, and Christian Farr, NBC5, will serve as co-emcees for the 10th anniversary gala “Converging on the Positive” for the Cook County Juvenile Temporary Detention Center Foundation (JTDCF), on Friday, September 27, at the Hyatt Regency Chicago, 151 E. Wacker Dr. The JTDC Foundation aims to divert youth from the criminal justice system by helping them regain positive control of their lives. This is the organization’s inaugural fundraising event.
HAMPTON AND HOWARD UNIVERSITIES TO COMPETE AT UPCOMING CHICAGO FOOTBALL CLASSIC
The annual Chicago Football Classic is returning to Soldier Field on September 14 to host a football game, a college fair, and to give away scholarships to Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs). This years game will be played by Hampton University and Howard University.
New Creative Arts School Welcomes First Class Of Students
Art in Motion (AIM), a new creative arts charter school in South Shore, recently welcomed its first class of students. The first class of students at AIM is made up of about 200 seventh-graders and eighth-graders from across the city.
WEST SIDE NONPROFIT PREPARES TO HOST GET ALONG SUMMERTIME JAM
The Prevention Force Family Center is a nonprofit organization operating on the west side to provide residents with an array of services including youth development, violence prevention, and entrepreneurship programs. The organization is preparing to host their annual Get Along Summertime Jam at DMI YOUth Can, 5090 W. Harrison St., from noon to 3 p.m. on Sept. 21.
ILLINOIS BANK ON INITIATIVE SIGNED INTO LAW, IDENTIFIES CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PRODUCTS FOR RESIDENTS
Illinois Governor JB Pritzker recently signed into law the Illinois Bank On Initiative which was designed to increase the use of Certified Financial Products and reduce reliance on alternative financial products. The initiative will be administered by Illinois State Comptroller Susana Mendoza, and require her office to maintain a list of Certified Financial Products and associated financial institutions.
NAACP Announces New Chief Financial Officer
The NAACP has announced that Arlis Whalum will serve as its new Chief Financial Officer. Whalum will oversee all accounting and finance functions, while providing strategic recommendations that ensures all financial solutions, positively support the NAACP’s evolving strategy, vision and mission
Chicago State University Opens Food Pantry
Chicago State University recently opened a food pantry to assist students and their families. The food pantry is a part of the university’s Student Affairs division, designed to support student success and advance learning by providing supplemental resources. The university is partnering with the Greater Chicago Food Depository, Chicago’s food bank, to operate the pantry, which will be open once a week.
Fearless Fund Launches $5 Million Dollar VC Fund Fueling Women Of Color Owned Businesses
The Fearless Fund invests in women of color-led businesses seeking pre-seed, seed level, or series A funding. With a mission of bridging the gap in venture capital funding for women of color founders building scalable, growth aggressive companies, Fearless Fund is built by women of color for women of color. Since its recent initiation, the Fearless Fund has hosted pitch competitions at Facebook Headquarters & Spanx Headquarters with brand partners such as Coca-Cola, UrbanSkinRX, Bumble and more.
SOUTH SIDE PRINCIPAL HONORED WITH LEADERSHIP AWARD FOR IMPLEMENTING PERSONALIZED LEARNING
Principal Miyoshi Knox from Stagg School of Excellence in Englewood was recently honored with the 2019 LEAP Leader Award at the annual LEAP InnovatED Summit hosted by LEAP Innovations. The LEAP Leader Award is given to an educator who has been recognized as a catalyst for change in their school and taken a leadership role in incorporating personalized learning.
Collins and Flowers’ plan to fight maternal and infant mortality signed into law
In 2014, Illinois ranked 36th out of 50 states and Washington D.C. in infant mortality, with a rate of 6.6 infant deaths per 1,000 live births. California had the lowest infant mortality rate of 4.3 per 1,000 live births, and Alabama had the highest rate of 8.7 per 1,000 live births, according to the Illinois Infant Mortality Data Report published in 2018 by the Illinois Department of Public Health Office of Women’s Health and Family Services.
UI Health supports city program to house homeless emergency department patients
The city of Chicago recently announced the expansion of the Chicago and Cook County Flexible Housing Pool (FHP) with $1.78 million in new investments. UI Health has committed $350,000 to the program
Domestic Violence Advocacy Organization Awards $22,200 in Scholarships to Survivors
Break the Silence Against Domestic Violence’s 2019 Angel Fund made the biggest impact yet. Bereaved families across the nation partnered with BTSADV recently to help raise $22,200 to be awarded to survivors of domestic violence this fall.
SweeTARTS® Celebrates the Freedom to “Be Both™” Through Fashion Collaboration with Christian Siriano
SweeTARTS® recently announced its partnership with Council of Fashion Designers of America (CFDA) designer Christian Siriano in celebration of SweeTARTS “Be Both” campaign. Siriano designed a custom couture look inspired by the brand, which celebrates the freedom to be “more than one thing.”
Viola Davis To Star As Michelle Obama In ‘First Ladies’ Drama Series In Works At Showtime
Viola Davis is set to portray Michelle Obama in First Ladies, a one-hour White House drama that has been put on fast-track development at Showtime with a three-script commitment. Davis will executive produce the project, which hails from writer Aaron Cooley (novels Four Seats: A Thriller of the Supreme Court, The Guns of Ridgewood), Davis and Julius Tennon’s JuVee Productions, Cathy Schulman’s Welle Entertainment (Otherhood), Jeff Gaspin’s Gaspin Media (LA’s Finest) and Brad Kaplan (The Intruder). Showtime and Lionsgate TV co-produce.
Explore or Rediscover The City With Fall Tours
As one of the top urban destinations in the world, Chicago continues to impress with new world-class hotels, groundbreaking exhibits, exciting food experiences and tours. From iconic architecture to tasty food experiences, tours in Chicago offer an opportunity to see the city for the first time or explore it all over again. Happening right now are the following fall tours
South Suburban Village Considers Hiring New Police Officers
The Village of Dolton Board of Trustees recently held a special meeting to discuss whether or not to hire more police officers for the village. This has been an ongoing discussion for quite some time and the Board of Trustees recently approved the hiring of five polices officers but with a recent uptick in violent crime, the mayor is asking for more.
Illinois Medicaid department announces 40 new dementia care sites throughout state
Nearly 1600 Medicaid members with dementia will have the opportunity to live in newly expanding settings that offer the services and safety they need, the Illinois Department of Healthcare and Family Services announced recently. They will be part of forty sites throughout Illinois.