Friday, April 28
CHICAGO PUBLIC LIBRARY ANNOUNCES PLANS TO OPEN TWO NEW LOCATIONS IN MIXED-USE DEVELOPMENTS, AND FUNDING FOR A NEW BRANCH IN WOODLAWN
Back of the Yards and Humboldt Park neighborhoods to benefit from new libraries, with additional funding allocated for a third branch in Woodlawn community.
Chicago Public Library (CPL), in collaboration with Mayor Lori E. Lightfoot and the Department of Planning and Development (DPD), announced today two new libraries will be part of mixed-use developments planned for the Back of the Yards and Humboldt Park communities. The Library also announced that it will leverage $18 million in capital bond funding for a new library branch serving the Woodlawn community. These investments are a testament to the city's ongoing efforts to promote literacy, education, and community engagement.
Thursday, April 27
Cubs’ Adbert Alzolay Helps Distribute Food at Advocate Health Care’s Food Farmacy Day
Advocate Health Care and the Chicago Cubs partnered together Wednesday afternoon to deliver fresh fruits and vegetables and many smiles to Advocate Trinity Hospital patients with chronic conditions such as diabetes, high blood pressure and heart disease. The event was part of Advocate Health Care’s Healthy Living Food Farmacy Day, which was held at Bethany Lutheran Evangelical Church on Chicago’s south side.
REP. KELLY, SENATORS DUCKWORTH, DURBIN INTRODUCE TWO BILLS TO INCREASE YOUTH EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES
Today, U.S. Representative Robin Kelly (D-IL-02), along with U.S. Senate Majority Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL) and U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), reintroduced two bills to expand and increase access to employment opportunities for underserved youth. The Helping to Encourage Real Opportunity (HERO) for Youth Act and the Assisting in Developing (AID) Youth Employment Act, which was previously titled the Creating Pathways for Youth Employment Act, will increase federal resources for communities seeking to create or grow employment programs and provide tax incentives to businesses and employers to hire and retain youth from economically distressed areas.
Cook County Commissioner Monica Gordon Gives Employers Incentive to Hire Formerly Incarcerated Individuals
Cook County Commissioner Monica Gordon (5th District) is calling on Governor J.B. Pritzker and the Illinois legislature to approve a resolution to help small businesses and formerly incarcerated individuals searching for work in Cook County. Last month, HB 3418, which creates the Securing All Futures through Equitable Reinvestment Communities Act was approved by the Illinois House of Representatives and referred to the Senate.
CONGRESSMAN DANNY K. DAVIS VOWS TO FIGHT TO KEEP SUPPORT SYSTEMS INTACT WHILE REPUBLICANS SLASH BENEFITS IN DEBT CEILING PROPOSAL
Today, Rep. Danny K. Davis voted against the Default On America Act. This extreme MAGA Republican legislation presents Americans with a terrible choice: either House Republicans will wreck our economy or inflict cruel cuts that hurt everyday people.
Wednesday, April 26
Treasurer Pappas to participate in Cities Summit and share digital knowhow with leaders from the Western Hemisphere
Cook County Treasurer Maria Pappas is to take part in the first-ever Cities Summit of the Americas in Denver to share her digital and automation expertise with city leaders from North and South America.
Dion’s Chicago Dream launches Feed the Dream fundraising competition
Dion’s Chicago Dream, a nonprofit taking a fresh approach to eliminating food insecurity, launched the Feed the Dream fundraising competition to raise $1 million to deliver healthy, high-quality produce to 1,000 Chicagoland households every week for one year.
The Black Hollywood Education & Resource Center Announces 30th Anniversary of Sistas Are Doin' It For Themselves Short Film Showcase and Virtual Film Festival
The Black Hollywood Education and Resource Center (BHERC) will host the 30th Anniversary of its Sistas Are Doin' It For Themselves Short Film Showcase and Virtual Film Festival. All in-person events will be held May 19-21, 2023 at the Directors Guild of America in Los Angeles, California. The Virtual Festival will be streamed via BHERC.TV from May 22-31.
Carol's Daughter Launches Birthing While Black Campaign for Year 3 of Black Maternal Health Initiative, "Love Delivered"
Carol's Daughter has announced its Birthing While Black campaign, which showcases the real-life stories of Black people navigating the crisis. To kick off the campaign, Black birthing people everywhere are encouraged to share their birthing stories on social to raise awareness around Black Maternal Health, by using the hashtag: #BirthingWhileBlack and tagging @carolsdaughter. Each post will spark a donation to the Mama Glow Foundation that will help fund doula support for families in need.
ATTORNEY GENERAL RAOUL ANNOUNCES SETTLEMENT WITH TELEHEALTH COMPANY, VISIBLY
Attorney General Kwame Raoul announced a bipartisan national settlement with Visibly Inc. (Visibly) that resolves an investigation into deceptive business practices at the online telehealth company. Visibly, formerly known as Opternative Inc., is a Chicago-based company that markets and sells an online vision test, among other products.
ComEd Invests $963 Million with Diversity-Certified Suppliers in 2022
As part of its longstanding effort to advance equity in the communities it serves, ComEd spent $963 million, or 43% of its total supply chain spend, with businesses owned by women, people of color and veterans in 2022. This brings its spend with diversity-certified suppliers since 2012 to $7.4 billion. Maintaining its commitment to local investment, ComEd spent $651 million of its total diverse spend last year with Illinois-based suppliers.
OkayMedia Hires New EIC To Oversee OkayPlayer + OkayAfrica
OkayMedia, the multimedia organization dedicated to uplifting the artistic and progressive voice of global Black culture, announced the hiring of Geo Hagan as the new Editor-in-Chief.
Gift of Hope dedicates building to Jack Lynch
Gift of Hope Organ & Tissue Donor Network hosted a ceremony to dedicate the building, located at 7936 S. Cottage Grove, to longtime civic leader Jack Lynch. The site was previously Independence Bank and Urban Partnership Bank. Lynch is retiring from Gift of Hope after 35 years of service. He led the effort to develop the Gift of Hope facility that now bears his name. The 48,000 square foot building was purchased by Gift of Hope in 2019.
MAYOR LIGHTFOOT JOINS CITY OFFICIALS FOR A JOINT RIBBON-CUTTING AND GROUNDBREAKING CEREMONY FOR 43 GREEN
Mayor Lori E. Lightfoot was joined by City officials, P3 Markets, and The Habitat Company for a joint ribbon-cutting and groundbreaking ceremony for 43 Green, an $81.8M INVEST South/West two-building project that will bring equitable transit-oriented development to Chicago’s historic Bronzeville area
THE BROTHERHOOD SISTER SOL CELEBRATES 18TH VOICES GALA ALONGSIDE HONOREE DAPPER DAN
Youth development and social justice organization hosts annual benefit to celebrate life-changing programming alongside legendary Harlem fashion designer
The Brotherhood Sister Sol (BroSis), the Harlem-based youth development and social justice organization, today announced the return of its signature Voices gala. Returning for its 18th iteration on Thursday, May 11th, Voices serves as the organization's annual benefit that celebrates its youth members and enriching programming. Taking place at New York City's Ziegfeld Ballroom, this year's event will honor special guest Dapper Dan to recognize his legendary work within fashion, music and culture timed with the 50th anniversary of Hip Hop.
American Library Association Executive Director named to TIME 100 List
Tracie D. Hall, Executive Director of the American Library Association, has been named in the TIME Most Influential List. Hall had no idea that she was being considered for the list. She called it a humbling experience to be named on the list, which features some very notable and well-known people. People on the TIME 100 List are chosen by TIME editors. She believes she was chosen because libraries are on the front lines of conversations about Democracy, the right to read and free expression.
RED CLAY DANCE COMPANY ANNOUNCES WORLD PREMIERE OF “REST. RISE. MOVE. NOURISH. HEAL.”
Red Clay Dance Company will close out its 14th Season with the world premiere of its newest work, “Rest.Rise.Move.Nourish.Heal.,” which audiences will have the opportunity to experience on June 8-10, 2023. Rest. Rise.Move.Nourish.Heal is a site-responsive dance ritual created by Founder and Artistic Director Vershawn Sanders-Ward and Company in collaboration with composer avery r. young, filmmaker Jovan Landry, Kelley KFLEYE Moseley and Evelyn Danner.
CANTU BEAUTY CELEBRATES INTERNATIONAL BLACK WOMEN'S HISTORY MONTH
Cantu Beauty announces the 2023 Girls Leading Our World (GLOW) Global Cohort, continuing the brand's $1M+ investment to champion women of color across the globe through their community efforts
Cantu Beauty, an award-winning textured hair care brand, once again joins Women Empowering Nations (WEN) to host the 2023 Girls Leading Our World (GLOW) Global Cohort: an immersive, high impact leadership coaching experience beginning this month through July 2023 for women of color across the globe. This year's cohort builds on the 2022 program and received applications from more than 2,500 young women from seven countries — the United States, United Kingdom, South Africa, France, Germany, Ghana and Nigeria. This year's investment will eclipse $1 million in total by Cantu toward community efforts across programs and partners including Women Empowering Nations.
Mobile business owner wants to help other mobile entrepreneurs
Wysonia Payton has reinvested herself a lot over the course of her life. After working as a hair stylist for 25 years, she decided she wanted to go into catering with Decadent Flavors. Decadent Flavors has been around for eight years, and Payton calls it her “new baby.” When she was younger, she loved cooking and even thought about going to culinary school while, she continued to work as a hair stylist.
Chicago Teens can Apply for After School Matters® Summer Programs
After School Matters’ summer session application is open, offering thousands of Chicago teens the opportunity to apply to hundreds of programs in the arts, communications and leadership, sports, and STEM. Programs begin June 26, run for six weeks, and will take place in-person at locations across the city like libraries, parks, After School Matters facilities, and community-based organizations as well as some select remote options. Teens interested in applying can visit afterschoolmatters.org.
Live Nation Entertainment Elects Rich Paul To Board Of Directors
Live Nation Entertainment (NYSE: LYV) announced the election of Rich Paul to its Board of Directors. Paul is the Founder and CEO of KLUTCH Sports Group, as well as Head of Sports at United Talent Agency (UTA) where he also serves on the board. Paul represents some of the world's top athletes, helping them make strategic decisions about professional playing careers as well as develop successful brand and business ventures.
Mural celebrates life of Mayor Harold Washington
A mural that depicts the life and legacy of Mayor Harold Washington now sits at the college that bears his name. On Thursday, April 13th, the mural, created by Judith Mayer, was unveiled at Harold Washington College, located at 30 E. Lake St. The unveiling was a celebration of the mural and an opportunity for people to reflect on the lasting legacy of Washington, who was Chicago’s first Black Mayor.
CHICAGO PUBLIC LIBRARY IS AWARDED A $2 MILLION GRANT FROM THE MELLON FOUNDATION TO MAKE BLACK HISTORY MORE ACCESSIBLE TO THE PUBLIC
The library’s largest collections grant ever received to support the Renaissance Project which enhances the library's special collections and archival materials of rich Black cultural and historical resources.
How to Exercise Good Financial Health
April is Financial Literacy Month – a perfect time to start building a foundation for a healthy financial future. Good financial health is the foundation on which strong and resilient households, communities and economies are built, but the reality is, many struggle to manage their financial daily lives.
COMCAST’S BLACK EXPERIENCE ON XFINITY AWARDS $1 MILLION IN GRANTS TO TEN EMERGING BLACK FILMMAKERS IN CELEBRATION OF ITS TWO-YEAR ANNIVERSARY
“The Black Experience on Xfinity has been a strong supporter and promoter of emerging Black content creators. Filmmaker grants are one of the many ways we can leverage our platforms to amplify authentic stories and voices that need to be heard,” said Keesha Boyd, Vice President, Entertainment Emerging Products. “We are thrilled to shine a spotlight on these 10 talented filmmakers, as we continue to invest in and distribute original programming from emerging Black content creators and talent.”
Thursday, April 20
YELLOW BANANA CLOSES $26.5 MILLION TRANSFORMATIVE INVESTMENT IN SIX GROCERY STORES ON CHICAGO’S SOUTH AND WEST SIDES
Project will expand local access to quality, affordable, healthy food options for deserving Chicago residents as other food retailers depart from the City
Yellow Banana, the owner and operator of eight Save A Lot locations in the Chicagoland area, today announced the March 31, 2023 closing of a $26.5 million investment into grocery stores on the South and West Sides of Chicago. This transaction marks the next step in Yellow Banana’s ongoing commitment to underserved communities throughout the City of Chicago and the U.S. The investment combines a $13.5 million Community Development Grant that the City previously awarded to Yellow Banana in July 2022 with New Markets Tax Credits, third-party financing and funding from Yellow Banana.
EARLY WALKER IN CONJUNCTION WITH THE CHICAGO POLICE DEPARTMENT TO INTRODUCE “PARENTS FOR CHICAGO” COMMUNICATION LINE
TEXT AND EMAIL LINES CREATED IN RESPONSE TO RECENT “TEEN TAKEOVER”
Early Walker-CEO of I’m Telling, Don’t Shoot- will be join by CPD Director Glen Brooks, other leaders of the Chicago Police Department, Community organizations, Community Leaders, and Clergy leaders to announce a new initiative in response to the recent “Teen Takeover” in Chicago.
A NEW BOOK, EMMA’S POSTCARD ALBUM, PORTRAYS RACISM AND BLACK CULTURE THROUGH THE POSTCARDS OF A YOUNG BLACK WOMAN IN THE EARLY 20TH CENTURY
In a new book, Emma’s Postcard Album, Black Lives in the Early Twentieth Century, author Faith Mitchell tells her family story through her grandmother’s 1906 to 1910 postcard collection, providing an authentic narrative of African American culture in an overtly racist society, where lynchings, segregation, and discrimination were all commonplace. The setting is Southeastern Pennsylvania, where teenager Emma Crawford received postcards from family, friends, and admirers that chronicle the world they lived in.
Black Voices are Speaking Out, but Are they Being Heard?
Cedric Richmond is the Latest National Black Voice to Appeal to the FCC in Support of Standard General’s Acquisition of TEGNA and Diversity in Media Ownership
Cedric Richmond, former Congressman (LA-2), former chair of the Congressional Black Caucus, former senior advisor to President Joe Biden, and director of the White House Office of Public Engagement, has become the latest voice of Black America to appeal to the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) for racial diversity in media ownership.
Wednesday, April 19
Creating a Blueprint for the Next Generation of Black Leaders
"In the Black" by T. Dallas Smith is released with Forbes Books
In the Black: Changing the Dominant Narrative in the Commercial Real Estate Industry by T. Dallas Smith is now available. The book is published with Forbes Books, the exclusive business book publishing imprint of Forbes, and is available on Amazon today. This release is posted on behalf of Forbes Books (operated by Advantage Media Group under license).
ART ON THE MART KICKS OFF ITS 2023 PROGRAMMING WITH FUNTIME UNICORN: RUBY RIDES THROUGH FOUR SEASONS
ART on THE MART, an innovative digital art project that transforms a Chicago architectural landmark into a larger-than-life canvas, will start its 2023 programming with a new commission by internationally renowned artist Derrick Adams and the return of the popular projection of new work by local Chicago Public Schools (CPS) seniors. Adams’ projection will be on view nightly at 8.30 p.m. and 9:00 p.m. to July 5, 2023. The CPS projection will be on show from April 27 to May 14, 2023, immediately following Adams’.
Chicago Public Schools Teachers Named Yale National Fellows
Six Chicago Public Schools (CPS) teachers have been selected to participate in a national program to strengthen teaching in public schools. Recently recognized as Yale National Fellows, these educators will participate in a series of intensive seminars to develop their leadership and curriculum development skills through the Yale National Initiative. The six CPS educators selected to participate in this professional development initiative are among a select group of only 44 public school teachers from 14 school districts nationwide who will participate in the program.
THE CITY OF CHICAGO AND NASCAR ANNOUNCE TRAFFIC PLAN FOR NASCAR CHICAGO STREET RACE
The City of Chicago and NASCAR officials shared a traffic plan for the NASCAR Chicago Street Race, which takes place July 1–2, 2023. The plan provides an outline for street closures, parking restrictions, and pedestrian routes in and around Grant Park. As Chicago hosts the first-ever cup series street race in NASCAR’s 75-year history, residents and visitors are encouraged to be mindful of the traffic impacts, as well as safety measures in place.
Gov. Pritzker Awards $22.5 Million to Boost Tourism, Support Illinois Festivals and Attractions
Governor JB Pritzker and the Illinois Department of Commerce & Economic Opportunity (DCEO) joined legislators and leaders in the tourism industry to award $22.5 million in grant funding for 89 projects across Illinois through the Tourism Attractions and Festivals Grant program. Designed to support local festivals and attractions and drive tourism across the state, Illinois increased the funding available from $15 million to $22.5 million in order to support additional attractions. The additional $7.5 million was secured during the Illinois General Assembly legislative session in early January 2023 and the program is funded by the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA).
Mural Unveiled at Blue Island Health Center
When Lorelei Pement set out to create the mural that greets visitors at the Blue Island Health Center, she wanted to make sure the community felt seen, as well as to tell the history of the building and its place within the community.
Diamonds and Lace EventScaping is a Mother-Daughter Affair
Leeta Liddell always had an interest in fashion and parties. She started Diamonds and Lace EventScaping, LLC with her daughter Relana Johnson after training as a wedding planner at her church.
Revitalized Jet Magazine Cover Announced: Slutty Vegan CEO Pinky Cole
After 63 years and thousands of issues, JET printed its last magazine in 2014, but today it is announced that the iconic publication is back in print and we would love to have you reveal that Pinky Cole is the cover star!
Property Values for Calumet Township Released
Cook County – Cook County Assessor Fritz Kaegi released the initial assessments of residential and commercial properties in Calumet Township. Property owners can expect to receive their Reassessment Notice in the mail within the week.
‘Jagged Little Pill’ actress talks about role in musical
Lauren Chanel saw “Jagged Little Pill” in 2018/2019 on Broadway and knew it was something she wanted to do and something she could do. Now, Chanel is portraying Frankie in the National Tour of the musical.
Lil Durk Announces April Public Mint of Phygital Sneaker Collection
Lil Durk, in collaboration with 'NXTG3NZ', is proud to announce public minting for their highly anticipated '7220' phygital sneaker collection. The collection's minting public event took place on April 10 and consists of 11,111 pairs of custom designed phygital sneakers on the Algorand blockchain.
Chicago Public Schools Continues Preschool Expansion to Nearly Every City Neighborhood
Chicago Public Schools (CPS) continues to expand early childhood learning opportunities as part of a citywide initiative to ensure every four-year-old child in the city has access to free full-day programming. CPS Chief Education Officer Bogdana Chkoumbova, Commissioner Brandie Knazze of the Department of Family Support and Services (DFSS), and CPS Chief Early Childhood Officer Leslie Mckinily visited preschool classrooms at Arnold Mireles Academy this morning as the early learning application portal opened, making preschool registration available for the 2023-24 school year.
Abounding Prosperity Board of Directors Unanimously Appoints Tamara Stephney as Acting CEO
Amid the passing of Mr. Kirk D. Myers-Hill, the Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Abounding Prosperity, Inc., the Board of Directors announces the appointment of Ms. Tamara Stephney as Acting Chief Executive Officer of Abounding Prosperity, Inc.
Ag Invest Program Surpasses $1 Billion in Agriculture Lending During Treasurer Michael Frerichs’ Administration
The Illinois State Treasurer’s Ag Invest Program has achieved a new milestone by loaning more than $1 billion to farmers and agriculture professionals across the state, Illinois State Treasurer Michael Frerichs said today. The milestone represents the cumulative amount of Ag Invest loans since Frerichs became state treasurer in 2015.
Equity and Transformation wants to build Black equity
A local nonprofit is working to create Black equity through programs that provide financial resources for people who are often left out of most guaranteed income programs. Equity and Transformation in Chicago was founded by Richard Wallace in 2018, with the goal of uplifting the voices of Black people in Chicago who participate in the informal economy – economic activities, enterprises, jobs, and workers that are not regulated or protected by the state.
Lowe's Names Juliette Pryor Executive Vice President, Chief Legal Officer and Corporate Secretary
Lowe's Companies, Inc. (NYSE: LOW) announced the appointment of Juliette Pryor as executive vice president, chief legal officer and corporate secretary, effective May 3, 2023. Pryor joins the company from Albertsons, where she served as executive vice president, general counsel and corporate secretary.
Walmart Superstore leaves Chatham
On Tuesday, April 11th, Walmart announced that it would close four locations in Chicago on Sunday, April 16th. One of those locations is the Chatham Walmart, located at 8431 S. Stewart. The Walmart Academy is also set to close, along with the Walmart Health Center, which opened in 2020. The pharmacy will remain open for 30 days so that people with prescriptions will have time to move them to another pharmacy.
Friday, April 14
ATTORNEY GENERAL RAOUL AND MAYOR-ELECT BRANDON JOHNSON ISSUE STATEMENT FOLLOWING MEETING TO DISCUSS COLLABORATIONS TO ENHANCE PUBLIC SAFETY
Attorney General Kwame Raoul and Mayor-Elect Brandon Johnson issued the following statement after meeting today to discuss how both offices can improve collaborations on a host of issues facing Chicago residents, including public safety, consent decree implementation, gun trafficking and organized retail crime
ComEd Invests $963 Million with Diversity-Certified Suppliers in 2022 11-year diverse supplier spend reaches $7.4 billion
As part of its longstanding effort to advance equity in the communities it serves, ComEd spent $963 million, or 43% of its total supply chain spend, with businesses owned by women, people of color and veterans in 2022. This brings its spend with diversity-certified suppliers since 2012 to $7.4 billion. Maintaining its commitment to local investment, ComEd spent $651 million of its total diverse spend last year with Illinois-based suppliers.
Thursday, April 13
EMPLOYEE-OWNED DISPENSARY OPENS ITS DOORS IN MATTESON
Residents, Regional and local officials gathered on Wednesday at the all-new Matteson Lux Leaf Dispensary store for its official grand opening to the public. Lux Leaf is an employee-owned company.
Wednesday, April 12
Nicor Gas opens applications for diversity grants to support organizations that promote diversity and inclusive opportunities
Expanding on its commitment to support organizations that address the lack of access to opportunities for those experiencing discrimination based on race, national origin, gender, religion, age, sexual orientation, veteran status and physical disabilities, Nicor Gas is announcing $100,000 in funding to support diversity programs.
Rep. Evans Welcomes 2024 Democratic National Convention to Chicago, Illinois
In response to the democratic national party leaders’ announcement to host the 2024 Democratic National Convention in the City of Chicago, Southside resident and State Rep. Marcus C. Evans, Jr. (D-Chicago) joins Governor JB Pritzker, Mayor-Elect Brandon Johnson and other top Illinois leaders in celebrating this great opportunity.
EMPLOYEE-OWNED DISPENSARY TO OPEN ITS DOORS IN MATTESON
(Matteson, Ill) Residents, Regional and local officials will gather at the all-new Matteson Lux Leaf Dispensary store for its official grand opening to the public. Lux Leaf is a full employee-owned company.
The World Natural Hair Show Prepares For Its Most Impactful Event Yet
The first, largest and most influential lifestyle event for natural and multicultural hair, beauty & wellness returns this April 22-23 to Atlanta
The World Natural Hair Show returns for its 23rd year this April 22-23 at the Georgia International Convention Center! More than an annual event, The World Natural Hair Show is a cultural movement that continues to positively change society's views of black beauty, cultures and lifestyle. This year's show focuses on the concepts of self-love, confidence and community through educational workshops and panels, awards ceremonies, over 250 vendors and leaders within multicultural beauty, live music and entertainment, and meaningful conversations that uplift and encourage the community.
CHICAGO STATE UNIVERSITY TEACHERS ON STRIKE
Chants of “Equity and Justice at CSU” sounded out on the corner of 95th and King Drive. As trucks passed, they honked their horns in solidarity with the CSU strikers, who were carrying green and white signs and wearing green and white t shirts.
CHICAGO FOUNDATION FOR WOMEN ANNOUNCES HONOREES OF THE 2023 IMPACT AWARDS, NONPROFIT GRANTS
The Chicago Foundation for Women (CFW) has announced honorees of the 2023 Impact Awards, which recognize top local women leaders who are expanding economic security, ensuring freedom from violence, or enhancing access to health services for women and girls. The event was held at the Harold Washington Library Center.
KEM CELEBRATES 20TH ANNIVERSARY OF BEING SIGNED TO MOTOWN
Four-time GRAMMY®-nominated R&B superstar KEM, one of the most distinctive and vital voices in music, commemorates his 20th anniversary of being signed to the Motown label with two new career firsts: the release of his first book, and his first live album. He kicked-off a monthlong celebration this morning with an interview and performance on ABC's "Good Morning America," and tomorrow, he will appear with Tamron Hall on her Emmy Award®-winning daytime talk show "Tamron Hall Show."
CHICAGO COMMUNITY LOAN FUND RESOURCES AID COMMUNITY-BASED ORGANIZATIONS IN EXPANSION PLANS
Some top-notch organizations have a viable expansion resource in the Chicago Community Loan Fund (CCLF), which empowers them with cashflow to more effectively leverage existing resources and build capacity.
Scores of students benefit from fundraising efforts of suburban school districts and United Negro College Fund
Seventy-five high school seniors from 12 high schools in Cook County, Kankakee and collar counties will receive scholarships on Wednesday as a result of successful fundraising efforts by a group of suburban school district superintendents and the United Negro College Fund.
BRONZEVILLE LAKEFRONT PROJECT HOSTS INFRASTRUCTURE GROUNDBREAKING
The former site of Michael Reese Hospital is set for redevelopment. On Wednesday, March 29th, there was a groundbreaking for the Bronzeville Lakefront Infrastructure Project.Project.
REVOLT Appoints 4 Trailblazing Women into Executive Roles
REVOLT, the leading Black-owned independent multimedia company, is excited to announce the appointment of four highly experienced women who have joined its executive team. With this initiative, Dominique Andrews, Donyell Kennedy-McCullough, Nancy Harrison, and Alison Threadgill are elevated into key leadership positions to spearhead the company's culture-driven talent and production initiatives.
Treasurer Frerichs Returns $22.7 Million In Unclaimed Property in March
he Illinois State Treasurer’s Office returned nearly $22.7 million in unclaimed property during March, Illinois State Treasurer Michael Frerichs said.
Rust Belt to Green Belt legislation passes Illinois House
The Rust Belt to Green Belt Legislation, SB 193/ HB 2132, passed the Illinois House at the end of March. Legislators believe it is the first step in Illinois becoming a leader in offshore wind production. It also will help the state reach the climate goals listed in the Clean Energy Jobs Act. The legislation, which is a framework for offshore wind energy, has the potential to create more than 1,000 jobs.
PepsiCo and Pensole Lewis College of Business and Design Kick-Off Three-Year Partnership
PepsiCo and Pensole Lewis College of Business and Design celebrate the first step in their three-year partnership to develop Black designers and increase representation in the design industry. PepsiCo is revealing the work from its inaugural program at Pensole Lewis, the first and only Historically Black College or University (HBCU) dedicated to design, which tasked students to create a new student lounge on campus. Designers from the PepsiCo Design & Innovation team and MillerKnoll mentored Pensole Lewis students through the design process, a precursor to how PepsiCo will invest in bringing the winning concept to life this summer with support from MillerKnoll. In addition, PepsiCo teamed up with NBA star Russell Westbrook, who was inspired by the program and shares its mission to create opportunities for the community, to further amplify the effort and unveil the completed lounge on campus.
Landmarks Illinois seeks nominations for 2023 preservation awards
Landmarks Illinois is now accepting nominations for the 2023 Landmarks Illinois Richard H. Driehaus Foundation Preservation Awards. The annual awards program honors outstanding preservation projects in Illinois and/or individuals, organizations and advocacy efforts that demonstrate a strong commitment to protecting the places that are important to the people and communities of Illinois.
IT’S CHICAGOLAND’S OFFICIAL KICKOFF TO SUMMER!
Raging Waves, Illinois’ largest waterpark located at 4000 N. Bridge St. in Yorkville, will open to the public on June 3, featuring a new themed entrance with new convenient mobile ticket redemption, brand new decking and lounge chairs, and additional seating and shade spaces around the park. Celebrating 16 years of delivering family fun for all ages, guests will be able to experience various mega-fun attractions including their signature 32 water slides, a wave pool, three kiddie pool areas, relaxing lazy river, 43 private cabanas, and more. Thrill seekers will be able to experience the six-lane mat racing water slide, aptly named the Aussie Mat Dash. The first Proslide RallyRACER™ in Illinois and one of three in the world, the Aussie Mat Dash can be found at the south end of the park, near The Boomerang, Cyclone and the Hungry Croc Restaurant.
PRESERVATION CHICAGO TRYING TO SAVE THE WAREHOUSE
The Warehouse, which was located at 206 S. Jefferson, is said to be the birthplace of House music. The genre which originated in Chicago, with Black DJs and music producers, and gained popularity during the 1980s.
Announcing 2023 Chicago City Markets
The Chicago Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events is pleased to announce the 2023 summer season of Chicago City Markets. Presented by Humana, the Chicago City Markets sell fresh seasonal produce, flowers, unique Chicago-made products and rare finds – at Chicago’s longest running farmers market on Daley Plaza and a dozen more community markets in neighborhoods across Chicago. The historic Maxwell Street Market returns to its home at 800 S. Desplaines St. every Sunday from May through October in alignment with the Chicago City Market schedule. A complete list of city-run markets, dates and times are listed below and at chicagocitymarkets.us.
Harvey’s Newly Elected 2nd Ward Alderman is connecting the dots to Build a Better Harvey
Colby Chapman has a passion for philanthropy, politics and social justice. Chapman recently won her race for 2nd Ward Alderman on April 4th. Chapman was inspired to start a nonprofit when she worked as a behavioral specialist. The school where she worked did not have a prom or extracurricular activities that students usually look forward to taking part in as part of their high school experience. It sparked an idea to collect pennies and have a prom for Chicago Excel Academy.
Tuesday, April 11
TruVision Productions Entertainment and Media Corporation Presented An Inspirational Sounds Unity Concert on Amazon Prime This Past Easter Weekend
Executive Producer Jacqueline D. Sanders and award-winning Gospel Artist, VaShawn Mitchell of Inspirational Sounds Variety TV Show, hosted An Inspirational Sounds Unity Concert.
Walmart Announces Closure of Four Chicago Stores
Today we have made the difficult decision to close four of our stores in Chicago.
Monday, April 10
EXPO CHICAGO ANNOUNCES CORE PROGRAM LINEUP FOR TENTH ANNIVERSARY EDITION APRIL 13-16, 2023
Marking a Decade at Navy Pier, the Annual Exposition’s Programs Foreground International And Local Artists, Curators, and Industry Leaders Participants include Derrick Adams, Richard Bell, Dimitris Daskalopoulos, Brendan Fernandes, Ella Fontanals-Cisneros, For Freedoms, The Floating Museum, Ebony G. Patterson, Chance the Rapper, and Hank Willis Thomas CHICAGO—EXPO CHICAGO today announced the participating artists and speakers for the core programming of the international exposition’s tenth anniversary edition. Activating Navy Pier and the surrounding city, EXPO CHICAGO’s contemporary art and cultural programming convenes artists, curators, critics, and scholars alongside leading international galleries from April 13-16, 2023.
Thursday, April 6
ALZHEIMER’S ASSOCIATION AND KROC COMMUNITY CENTER CHICAGO HOST RELEASE THE SILENCE CONFERENCE
The Alzheimer’s Association Illinois Chapter will host Release The Silence Conference on Saturday, April 22, 2023. Designed to educate our community, future caregivers, and the healthcare industry about Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia. The conference is designed for those who are caregivers of a person with Alzheimer's, individuals who want to learn more about the disease as well as professionals wanting to understand the health disparities which affect individuals in the African American community.
Wednesday, April 5
Harvey’s Incumbent Mayor Projected The Winner
Mayor Christopher Clark has won his re-election against challenger Anthony McCaskill.
Johnson projected winner of Chicago Mayoral Race
On Tuesday, April 4th, Johnson was the projected winner, with 51.2% of the votes.
Collection on the Drive coming to Bronzeville
Luxury Residences are coming to Bronzeville. The Collection on the Drive is a 15-unit rowhouse development which boasts a private entrance for residents. The first unit, located at 3851 S. Calumet was slated for completion on Friday, March 31st. An unveiling will take place between 5 p.m. and 6 p.m. on Thursday, April 6th.
Hollywood Star Halle Bailey Helps Disney Dreamers Academy Students DREAM BIG at Walt Disney World Resort
One hundred students from across the country celebrated the conclusion of the 16th year of Disney Dreamers Academy with an emotional commencement ceremony at Walt Disney World Resort in Florida, featuring an inspirational speech by Grammy-nominated singer Halle Bailey, who will play Ariel in the upcoming live-action remake of Disney’s “The Little Mermaid.’’
CURLS Launches TRANSLATE Campaign to Empower Women with Textured Hair
The consciously curated capsule collection will provide a bold perspective for the CURLS consumer to speak their truth
CURLS, the most recognized natural hair care brand in North America, the textured hair aisle, and the multicultural community, is excited to announce the launch of its 2023 Hair Trend Release TRANSLATE: a compilation of defined hair textures, forms, and angles using cornrows, braids and lots of curls to create five elevated, consciously curated yet versatile hairstyles using CURLS high performance styling products. This collection is truly designed to empower women with textured hair to speak their truth and express themselves through their hair.
Custom shoe brand uses artistic elements to highlight individuality
LaToya Shaw created LØVCHLD out of pain. She lost someone close to her in November 2019 and she needed to find a creative outlet. That outlet was to paint on shoes. She continued to paint on shoes throughout the COVID-19 pandemic quarantine.
FDA Works to Further Improve Nutrition, Reduce Diet-Related Chronic Disease with Dietary Guidance Statements on Food Labels
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration issued draft guidance that provides food manufacturers with recommendations on how and when to use Dietary Guidance Statements on the label of food products to ensure the label statements promote good nutrition, provide greater consistency in labeling, and assist consumers in making informed choices. This guidance is part of the FDA's overall goal to help reduce the burden of chronic disease and advance health equity through improved nutrition.
Political Strategist Gives Insight on Elections
Delmarie Cobb has been working in politics since the late 1980s. Her first campaign was Rev. Jesse Jackson’s presidential campaign in 1988. At the time, she served as the National Travelling Press Secretary. She started her business, Publicity Works, in April 1990. Prior to working in politics, she was a television reporter for 10 years.
Meet the 10 Tech Startups in the Inaugural Geekz Ventures Pre-Accelerator
US-based pre-accelerator Geekz Ventures has announced its class of 10 startups for its inaugural cohort program. The GROWTH pre-accelerator program supports Black and Latinx-led early-stage companies from any industry, with a focus on MediaTech, Entertainment, and Mobile Technology. Applicants were assessed on their product, video pitch, potential impact, and capacity to build a scalable business.
Young people talk about giving back to their communities
Eighth grader Randi Thomas is really passionate about police reform. Thomas, who is a student at Village Leadership Academy, worked on a project that looked at police brutality and how it affects each country. She presented her project to other students at the school and from there will meet with people from the Chicago Torture Justice Center.
Honda Campus All-Star Challenge Returns to In-Person Competition in Longstanding Celebration of HBCU Academic Excellence
Honda will bring together more than 200 students and coaches from 32 Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs), with the in-person return of the 34th Honda Campus All-Star Challenge (HCASC), America's premier academic competition for HBCU students. Hosted on the American Honda corporate campus in Torrance, Calif., HCASC is the only program of its kind and provides a national stage for high-achieving HBCU students to advance their dreams. The HCASC National Championship finals can be watched at 3:00 p.m. PT on April 20-21 at HCASC.com.
CHICAGO POLICE DEPARTMENT ANNOUNCES NEW REHIRE AND LATERAL PROGRAMS FOR SWORN OFFICERS
Programs allow former CPD officers to rejoin the Department and sworn officers from outside law enforcement agencies to transfer in
The Chicago Police Department (CPD) announced new programs to rehire former Chicago Police Department officers and offer lateral hires for currently employed sworn officers from other law enforcement agencies.
ALZHEIMER’S ASSOCIATION AND KROC COMMUNITY CENTER CHICAGO HOST RELEASE THE SILENCE CONFERENCE
The Alzheimer’s Association Illinois Chapter will host Release The Silence Conference on Saturday, April 22. Designed to educate our community, future caregivers, and the healthcare industry about Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia. The conference is designed for those who are caregivers of a person with Alzheimer's, individuals who want to learn more about the disease as well as professionals wanting to understand the health disparities which affect individuals in the African American community.
CHICAGO SCHOLARS WINS AT SXSW, ANNOUNCES REACH PATHWAYS, A FIRST-OF-ITS-KIND PLATFORM TO CLOSE THE GAP BETWEEN TALENT AND OPPORTUNITY
For more than two decades, Chicago Scholars, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit leadership development organization, has empowered nearly 6,000 high-performing, under-resourced students to overcome systemic barriers to success in college. In addition to its wraparound support for Chicago-based students, Chicago Scholars has created REACH Pathways, a first-of-its-kind app designed to connect top talent with professional opportunities in ways that feel less like homework and more like a video game.
CITY OF CHICAGO LAUNCHES 2023 ONE SUMMER CHICAGO APPLICATION
The Mayor’s Office and the Chicago Department of Family and Support Services (DFSS) announced the launch of the 2023 One Summer Chicago (OSC) application portal. OSC 2023 will provide in-person job and life-skills training for youth ages 14 to 24 over the summer months from June 26 to August 4. Thanks to Mayor Lightfoot’s continued investment in Chicago’s young people and youth programming, 2023 OSC participants will earn $15.40 an hour within all Chicago Departments. Young people can apply at OneSummerChicago.org until the June 2 deadline.
Gov. Pritzker Announces 116 Non-profit Organizations Awarded $20 Million for Enhanced Security Across Illinois
Governor Pritzker and the Illinois Emergency Management Agency (IEMA) announced $20 million in grants have been awarded to 116 non-profit organizations across the state through the 2023 Nonprofit Security Grant Program (NSGP). The funding will be used to help organizations strengthen efforts to protect against public safety and security threats. Many of the grantees are places of worship, reproductive health providers, cultural institutions, and education centers who were deemed at high-risk of a terrorist attack.
7th Annual Chicago Rum Festival Returns with a Focus on Education
April 22, 2023 at Logan Square Auditorium
The 7th Annual Chicago Rum Fest is back and better than ever, bringing together rum lovers and trade professionals from all over the country on April 22, 2023, at Logan Square Auditorium (2539 N Kedzie Blvd, Chicago, IL 60647). This year's event promises to be a one-of-a-kind experience, featuring premium rum expressions poured, speaker programing, entertainment, and more.
Education Department Announces Use of Secret Shopping to Protect Students, Crack Down on Institutions that Lure Students with Lies
The U.S. Department of Education (Department) announced that the Enforcement Office of Federal Student Aid (FSA) will use secret shoppers as an additional tool to monitor postsecondary institutions’ compliance with the laws and regulations governing their participation in the federal student aid programs. In particular, secret shoppers will evaluate recruitment, enrollment, financial aid, and other practices of postsecondary institutions to help identify potentially deceptive or predatory practices used to recruit and enroll students.