Friday, January 27
TAX SALE REFORM BILL ADDRESSES LONGTIME DISPLACEMENT OF BLACK AND BROWN FAMILIES
A new state legislative proposal seeks to prevent longtime owner-occupants from losing their homes to investors in the Cook County annual tax sale. SB 74 and HB 1238 were introduced respectively by Senator Robert Peters (D-South Shore) and Representative Debbie Meyers-Martin (D-Matteson) in Springfield.
The Bolingbrook Black History Month Awareness Club Celebrates 25 Years by Accelerating The Dream
The Bolingbrook Black History Month Awareness Club will celebrate its jubilee year Saturday, February 4th, 2022, from 2:00 pm until 5:00 pm at Bolingbrook High School, 65 Raider Way, Bolingbrook, IL 60440.
Thursday, January 26
RICH TOWNSHIP HIGH SCHOOL(RTHS) AND MATTESON SCHOOL DISTRICT 162 STAFF RAISE THOUSANDS OF DOLLARS FOR FELLOW FEMALE STAFFER WHO’S HOME WAS DESTROYED IN RECENT FIRE
On Saturday, January 7th, RTHS Employee Romeno Carradine, who is helping raise five grade school grandchildren, lost all of her earthly possessions in an early morning house fire in Park Forest, Illinois. Fortunately, Romeno, her five grandchildren, and adult relatives were able to exit the home safely. However, the family were left with only the clothing on their backs when they were rescued from the burning home.
Wednesday, January 25
Dr. Monique Caradine-Kitchens is the Cover Story of Speakers Magazine January Issue Talking About Living in the Overflow
The new year issue of Speakers Magazine is online and hard copies will be distributed to monthly subscribers and others in their network of outlets. The cover features Dr. Monique Caradine-Kitchens, who is the founder and president of OverFlow Enterprises, LLC, which is the premiere personal development company that helps women fix their relationship with money so they can build wealth.
Meet The Woman Helping Women Entrepreneurs Change Their Brain to Increase Their Income
The poverty crisis is increasing like never before. With events such as the pandemic, inflation and jobs being at risk the pressure on individual's everyday way of life is in jeopardy. The coaching industry is in the perfect position to help. Coaching is designed according to Dr. Faith Abraham to enhance the quality of life for anyone who engages with it.
John Legend Announces Loved01 - Affordable Skincare for Melanin-Rich Skin
Award-winning singer-songwriter, entrepreneur and activist John Legend announces the launch of Loved01, a unisex skincare brand formulated in partnership with dermatologist Dr. Naana Boakye to treat the needs of melanin-rich skin. With accessibility at its core, the brand's mission is to democratize skincare with affordably-priced products available at mass retail.
NAACP Files a Supreme Court Brief to Support Student Debt Relief
Recently, the NAACP and a historic coalition of cities, states, experts, and advocates filed more than a dozen amicus curiae briefs with the U.S. Supreme Court in support of the Biden Administration's student debt relief program. This joint move by the coalition comes as the nation's highest court is set to hear arguments that will determine the fate of Biden's student debt relief program on February 28th.
Suzy Levian Reveals the Story Behind the Secret Diamond
he jewelry industry is known for its multi-generational ties, where traditions and legacies are passed down to children and grandchildren. For centuries the trade was male dominated, with this past century being one of glass ceilings being broken. Founding the first woman-owned jewelry business in the family, Suzy Levian is on a mission to empower, encouraging women to love themselves. Each of her pieces incorporates a hidden diamond within the band— the Suzy Levian signature secret diamond.
Illinois American Water Opens Annual Environmental Grant Program
Illinois American Water has opened the application window for its 2023 Environmental Grant Program. The program funds innovative, community-based projects focused on improving, restoring and watersheds.
Artist makes his mark with murals
The brightly colored murals that Rahmaan ‘Statik’ Barnes creates can be seen all over the city, from his mural at Garrett’s Popcorn off 87th and Cottage Grove to the mural of Farley “Jackmaster” Funk on 87th and Kimbark, to the series of murals he created for the city of Rosemont.
Rule is Major Step in Right Direction to Advance Fair and Affordable Housing and Strengthen Communities
Today, leading civil rights and housing policy organizations issued the following statement applauding HUD for releasing the Proposed Affirmatively Furthering Fair Housing (AFFH) rule:
Chicago candidates weigh in on ward remapping reform in first-of-its-kind survey organized by community groups
Most of the candidates for Chicago mayor and scores of aldermanic candidates who responded to a survey believe it’s time to change the behind-closed-doors, incumbent-controlled approach to ward remapping
Candidate for 4th Ward Alderman wants a more prosperous, livable community
Dr. Helen West didn’t just wake up one morning and decide to run for 4th Ward Alderman. Politics has been in her blood since childhood. Her father was a Precinct Captain in Lawndale and she learned early about getting the vote out.
REACTIVATE APPOINTS UTOPIA HILL CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER
Reactivate, a joint venture between Invenergy and Lafayette Square, is pleased to announce that Utopia Hill has been appointed Chief Executive Officer by the Board of Directors. Reactivate focuses on developing renewable energy projects that provide impactful benefits to primarily low-to-moderate-income and energy transition communities across the country.
‘When Broadway Was Black’ explores the Black Theater Renaissance of 1920s
Caseen Gaines went to see the 2016 George C. Wolfe production of “Shuffle Along, or, the Making of the Musical Sensation of 1921 and All That Followed.” The Broadway show starred Audra McDonald and was nominated for 10 Tony Awards. It only ran for 100 performances.
Candidate for Trustee of Flossmoor wants to help move Village forward
Arlene “Sugar” Al-Amin is the Clerk of Rich Township, and she is running for Trustee for the Village of Flossmoor. Al-Amin has been working in and around the community of Flossmoor for the last 16 years. She currently serves as a Commissioner of Community Relations for the Village of Flossmoor. In that role, she serves as a liaison between the residents and the Village to relay the residents’ concerns.
Epic novel ‘Memphis’ Tells a Good Black Southern Story
For Tara M. Stringfellow, Esq., the idea for her book “Memphis” started from birth. She was born a poet and when things happened in her family, she would make a note to remember it. Even if it was something bleak, with the understanding that those moments were important and something that she would need to write about.
African American Philanthropy Experience subject of upcoming exhibition
Chicago African Americans in Philanthropy (CAAIP) will host the groundbreaking national exhibition Giving Back: The Soul of Philanthropy Reframed and Exhibited opening during Black History Month at the Chicago Cultural Center, 78 E. Washington St. The touring exhibition explores the African-American philanthropy experience and giving traditions grounded in faith, mutuality, responsibility and social justice. It opens Feb. 1 and continues through April 30.
CTA Seeks to Hire Bus Operators and Bus Mechanics
Take the first step towards establishing a new career in the new year within the diverse field of transportation by attending the Chicago Transit Authority’s (CTA) Hiring Event on Saturday January 28th at CTA Headquarters.
ATTORNEY GENERAL RAOUL LEADS COALITION SUPPORTING ACCOUNTABILITY FOR FIREARMS INDUSTRY
Coalition Argues That New York has the Power to Curb Dangerous Industry Practices
Attorney General Kwame Raoul led a coalition of 18 attorneys general supporting a New York law to hold the firearms industry accountable. In an amicus brief, Raoul and the coalition argue that New York has the authority to protect residents and public safety.
New Property Management Contract Awarded for Red Line Extension Project
Contract executed with a 60 percent Disadvantaged Business Enterprises (DBE) participation commitment; the first of more to come under historic rail project and as part the agency’s mission to provide equitable opportunities
Metropolitan Water Reclamation District of Greater Chicago President Kari K. Steele Awards 8th Grade Contest Winners for Innovative Thoughts on Imagine a Day Without Water
12 Students Awarded from Four Chicago Area Elementary, Charter and STEAM Schools
The Metropolitan Water Reclamation District of Greater Chicago (MWRD) president Kari K. Steele acknowledged 12 student winners who participated in her Imagine a Day Without Water 2022 video & essay contest. The contest criteria required each student to create a 1-minute video, or 100-150 words essay that answers the question: “Imagine a Day Without Water” in your community and tell President Steele what they would do TODAY to conserve water and protect our natural resource (Lake Michigan), if they were in charge.
Creative, Talented and Inspiring Chicago-Area High School Students Chosen for This Year’s Disney Dreamers Academy at Walt Disney World Resort
Students from around the country, including four from the Chicago area, will descend on Walt Disney World Resort March 23-26, for the 16th annual event, aimed at broadening career awareness and creating exclusive opportunities for Black students and teens from underrepresented communities across America.
HYDE PARK ART CENTER ANNOUNCES RESIDENT ARTISTS OF JACKMAN GOLDWASSER RESIDENCY PROGRAM
Hyde Park Art Center, the renowned non-profit hub for contemporary art located on Chicago’s vibrant South Side, proudly marks the eleventh anniversary of its Jackman Goldwasser Residency program, offering comprehensive residencies of varying lengths to seven local, national and international artists whose creative practices address a wide range of social and personal issues. The Visiting Residency Program, Chicago’s only international artist residency program, welcomes three artists from Belarus and Minneapolis, while the year-long Radicle Studio Residency Program hosts four Chicago-based artists.
Monday, January 23
SCHOOL DISTRICT OFFICIALS JOIN FORCES WITH HAZEL CREST MAYOR AND POLICE CHIEF TO BRING ATTENTION TO RASH OF VIOLENT CRIMES AROUND GRADE SCHOOL
Dean Barnett-School President of the Hazel Crest School District 152 ½ and District Superintendent Dr. Kenneth Spells- will be joined by community leaders, residents, Police officials and the Hazel Crest Mayor in publicly cautioning residents to take notice of children walking home from school amid recent reports of gun violence and other criminal acts.
Cook County Clerk Seeking Judges For April Municipal Elections
Play an Important Role in our Democracy and Earn Some Cash in the Process
The Cook County Clerk’s Office is sending out a call to action to suburban residents who may be interested in working as an Election Judge for the upcoming April 4, 2023, Consolidated Municipal Election.
Friday, January 20
It's Time to Irrigate the Fallow Ground of Minority Media Ownership By Barbara Arnwine
I’ve fought for civil rights my entire career. In fact, in honor of my late mother, Vera Pearl Arnwine, I will tell you that my actual birth was amidst a fight for justice and equality to desegregate a White Hospital that refused to service the African-Americans in the nearby community
Megabus and Miller Transportation Partner to Expand Bus Service
Megabus, one of the largest bus companies in North America, is pleased to announce a new partnership with Miller Transportation, one of the largest transportation companies serving the mid-west. This partnership will allow for expanded service options for 56 cities including connecting Chicago with 23 cities, Detroit with 13 cities, Indianapolis with 32 cities, Louisville with 24 cities, Nashville with 7 cities and Memphis with 13 cities.
Thursday, January 19
Meyers-Martin Fights for Illinoisans as Chair of Consumer Protection Committee
State Rep. Debbie Meyers-Martin, D-Matteson, will continue to defend Illinois consumers as chair of the House Consumer Protection Committee.
KAI Enterprises and The UP Companies CEO Michael Kennedy, Jr. Named a 2023 St. Louis Titan 100
Michael Kennedy, Jr., CEO of KAI Enterprises and The UP Companies (UPCO), has the prestigious honor of being named a 2023 St. Louis Titan 100 – a program recognizing the area’s most accomplished C-level executives for their exceptional leadership, vision and passion.
Lakeside Alliance to host career fair on OPC site for high school students
The Learning with Lakeside Career Fair will be a great opportunity for young people to meet with representatives from trade unions, learn about pathways to careers in engineering, accounting, architecture and technology, and more, all on the site of the historic Obama Presidential Center project.
Wednesday, January 18
Disposing of Division, Not People and Places
As an organizer who’s spent much of my life fighting for civil rights and access to the ballot box, I reflect on the work and words of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. often, not just around the federal holiday for his birthday.
In nod to MLK Day, Advocate Health Care supports community groups at Bulls game
n support of the Chicago Bulls’ MLK Legacy Honoree program, Advocate Health Care distributed grants totaling $30,000 to four Chicago organizations making a difference in health equity at the Bulls’ MLK Game today vs. the Golden State Warriors.
NEXT WEEK: School Choice Week in Illinois Brings Hope, and Support to Families
Schools, organizations, and individuals are planning 987 celebrations of educational opportunity this month as traditional public schools, public charter schools, public magnet schools, private schools, and home educators highlight their unique choices
Cook County Treasurer Maria Pappas sending more than $47 million in automatic refunds to homeowners
More than 53,000 property owners who overpaid their First Installment taxes last year will automatically get back more than $47 million in refunds starting this week.
WORLD-RENOWNED CHICAGO BORN COMEDIAN DAMON WILLIAMS SET TO CELEBRATE “THREE DECADES OF FUNNY”
ENTERTAINERS FROM AROUND THE GLOBE CREDIT WILLIAMS FOR THEIR RESPECTIVE SUCCESSFUL CAREERS THROUGOUT THE NATION. WILLIAMS EXPECTED TO BE HONORED BY THE CITY OF CHICAGO, COOK COUNTY AND THE STATE OF ILLINOIS WITH PROCLAMATION & RESOLUTIONS ON THURSDAY, JANUARY 26, 2023 TIME:6:00 PM CST (SHOW STARTS AT 8:00 PM) LOCATION: CITY WINERY - 1200 WEST RANDOLPH STREET CHICAGO, IL 60607
David's Bridal Announces Brand Partnership with Kristine Thompson of Trendy Curvy
David's Bridal, the nation's leading bridal and special occasion authority and popular fashion blogger, plus size influencer, and bride-to-be, Kristine Thompson of Trendy Curvy have teamed up in a branded partnership.
Black and Latinx Elected Officials Unite Against the Chaos Caused by Mayor Lightfoot
A coalition of elected officials from different levels of government representing predominantly Black and Latinx communities in Chicago united today to hold Mayor Lori Lightfoot accountable for the chaos and division she’s causing through her lack of leadership.
Civil rights lawyer Sherrilyn Ifill will headline MLK Commemoration
Northwestern commemorates Dr. King’s legacy with Dream Week
Scholar, author and civil rights lawyer Sherrilyn Ifill will headline Northwestern University’s 2023 MLK Dream Week with a keynote conversation at 5 p.m. Monday, Jan. 23, at Pick-Staiger Concert Hall, 50 Arts Circle Drive. The keynote event is free and open to the public. Reservations are required.
ComEd Launches New Assistance Programs to Help Families Working to Make Ends Meet
As local communities continue to face economic hardships, ComEd is stepping up with new and enhanced customer-assistance options that will make more customers aware of the help available, provide more grants to help with electric bills, and remove barriers customers sometimes face when accessing assistance options.
CSU President Scott Named in Who’s Who in Education by Chicago Crain’s Business
Chicago State University President Zaldwaynaka “Z” Scott, Esq. was named as one of Chicago’s Most Impactful People in Education by Crain’s Chicago’s 2023 Who’s Who list. Launched in 2017, Crain’s Chicago’s list is chosen by the outlet's editorial staff and features city leaders in arts and entertainment, education, government, finance, health care, real estate and more.
An Artist Considers Beauty and Distraction Through Paintings on Stretch Wrap
“The contemporary artist Ayzay Ukwuoma has released a groundbreaking new series of paintings that explore themes of identity, race, and impermanence. Using stretch wrap as the primary medium, Ukwuoma creates vivid, ephemeral compositions that challenge traditional notions of materiality in art.
City of Harvey Police Department Closed the Year with a Significant Decrease in Homicides
The City of Harvey closed 2022 with a significant decrease in homicides. Harvey Mayor Christopher J. Clark identified several proactive measures that triggered the decline.
HORSESHOE HAMMOND ANNOUNCES AN EXCITING WINTER LINEUP OF LIVE CONCERTS AND SHOWS AT THE VENUE
The legendary Horseshoe Hammond, the exceptional 400,000-square-foot property right along Lake Michigan at 777 Casino Center Drive in Hammond, Indiana, is taking advantage of the cooler winter season with some of the hottest names in music and comedy at the Venue, one of the most popular concert arenas in the region. With an incredible lineup of performances scheduled for the coming months including the award-winning Ice Cube and the Emmy-nominated Rob Schneider to the electric Deon Cole, fans traveling near and far will have the opportunity to enjoy their favorites live onstage in an exciting atmosphere with an intimate setting.
HOME DÉCOR STORE BRINGS VIBE TO HYDE PARK
Shari always wanted a space with a shop of her own. She started planning events and fell in love with it. When she bought her house, she started to shop for items to decorate. She had a concept of what she wanted, but couldn’t find it in stores. It led her to create a space where people would feel at home, while they were shopping for home décor and art.
President Kari K. Steele Received Unanimous Vote by the Metropolitan Water Reclamation District of Greater Chicago Board of Commissioners to Serve a 3rd Term as President of the $1.4 billion dollar ag
President Steele made history in January 2019 when the board unanimously elected Commissioner Steele as the first African American woman president in the 130-year history of the district. On Thursday, Jan. 5th, during the Metropolitan Water Reclamation District of Greater Chicago (MWRD) Board Meeting, MWRD President Kari K. Steele received a unanimous vote by the MWRD Board of Commissioners to serve a 3rd term as President of the $1.4 billion dollar agency. Each term for President is two years and this is Steele’s 3rd consecutive term. President Steele currently serves as the Chairman of the Engineering Committee and the State Legislation and Rules Committee. She is also the Vice Chairman of the Procurement Committee.
EDUCATOR, THERAPIST AND LAW ENFORCEMENT VETERAN RUNNING FOR 6TH WARD ALDERMAN
Dr. Barbara Bunville has been giving back to the community since she was young. It started when she was a student in elementary school, volunteering her time to feed people in need and spending time with senior citizens. The former educator and law enforcement officer is running for 6th Ward Alderman.
Black Caucus Legislators Want to Bring Offshore Wind and 1,000s of Jobs to Illinois
Black Caucus legislators Senator Robert Peters (D-Chicago) and Leader Marcus Evans (D-Chicago) together with Rep. Edgar Gonzalez (D-Chicago), Local 150 and Pastor Scott Onque of Faith in Place called for the passage of Rust Belt to Green Belt legislation to jumpstart offshore wind in Lake Michigan.
21ST WARD CANDIDATE IS IN THE COMMUNITY MAKING A DIFFERENCE
Daliah Goree is runningfor 21st Ward Alderman.It wasn’t something she wanted to do initially. But, because of her work in the community, people thought she would make a good Alderman. Goree also has been a Chicago Police Officer for 24 years.
Peoples Gas files rate request with state regulators
Peoples Gas, filed a request with state regulators to restructure how costs are recovered from customers for critical infrastructure projects. The filing is not expected to increase the typical customer’s bill. With natural gas prices forecast to decline this year and next year, customer bills are expected to stay largely flat as new rates take effect in 2024.
LYNWOOD BOASTS ABOUT ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT PROJECTS FOR 2023
The Village of Lynwood, President Jada Curry was elected to office in 2021. Curry’s primary focus for the Village for 2023 is economic development. There are new businesses that are scheduled to break ground and are in different phases.
CITY OF CHICAGO MAKES A VOLUNTARY ADVANCE PENSION PAYMENT OF NEARLY A QUARTER OF A BILLION DOLLARS TO FURTHER SECURE RETIREMENT OF CITY WORKERS
Mayor Lori E. Lightfoot announced that the City would be following through on its promise to contribute $242 million in the form of an advance pension payment to the City’s four pension funds. This is a part of a new pension funding policy that aims to ensure the city’s continued financial recovery by preventing its unfunded pension liabilities from growing any further.
‘THE GREEN BOOK’ SUBJECT OF EXHIBIT AT ILLINOIS HOLOCAUST MUSEUM
“The Green Book” was used by Black families to navigate travel in the United States during the Jim Crow Era. It listed safe places for them to go as they traveled the highways and by ways.
New Proposed Regulations Would Transform Income-Driven Repayment by Cutting Undergraduate Loan Payments in Half and Preventing Unpaid Interest Accumulation
The U.S. Department of Education (Department) proposed regulations to reduce the cost of federal student loan payments, especially for low and middle-income borrowers.
Wednesday, January 11
Goals Ventures LLC Launches Streetwear Apparel Collection for the Everyday Entrepreneur
First Black-Owned Streetwear Company to Combine Tools, Technology, and Apparel for Rising Businesses
Black-owned, Goals Ventures LLC launches the first streetwear apparel collection to offer digital and social tools and technology to individuals looking to scale their business, all accessible through custom QR codes on the clothing tags. This launch serves to promote the work-life balance seamlessly with an assortment of everyday, ready to wear garments to help business creators, content creators, and/or influencers achieve their business goals.
CANDIACE IS BACK WITH DEEP SPACE DELUXE EDITION OUT NOW
Rising R&B powerhouse CANDIACE presents Deep Space Deluxe Edition, out now. She re-upped, re-energized, and recharged her acclaimed full-length debut album with eight new recordings. This pops off as the most dynamic and definitive vision of Deep Space.
Proposed Bronzeville Trail moves forward
John Adams, Esq., was walking through Bronzeville and saw the abandoned Kenwood “L” Train Embankment and it sparked an idea for the Bronzeville Trail. The Bronzeville Trail is a proposed walking, running and biking trail, which would be located from 40th and Dearborn to 41st and Lake Park Avenue. Adams is the founder and project director of the Bronzeville Trail Task Force.
Keva Latham Named to Color Magazine's Power List 40 Under 40
First Horizon is pleased to announce that Keva Latham, SVP Director of Compensation, has been recognized by Color Magazine in its 2022 Power 40 Under 40 list. The honorees were celebrated and are highlighted in the online publication.
Local Small Business Owners Ecstatic Over Corporate and Institutional Support in 2023
e-Local Marketplace (“ELM”), provides a direct solution to corporate and institutional buyers’ DEI initiatives and other entities committed to supporting local, women, minority, and veteran-owned businesses in the 9,581 square mile Chicagoland area. Formal diversity certification is not required. Through ELM, Buyers generate economic transformation via spend with local small business owners.
BLM Sets Up Student Relief Fund as Loan Forgiveness Stalls
Black Lives Matter Global Network Foundation launched their Student Solidarity Fund — an extension of the Black Lives Matter Survival Fund, where we gave $3 million in microgrants to Black individuals, families, small-business owners, and other folks experiencing financial hardship. Both then and now, the government has refused to act immediately on monetary relief critical to the wellbeing of Black people everywhere.
DRUM MAJOR FOR JUSTICE 2023 MLK COHORT OPENS REGISTRATION
Johnson C. Smith Theological Seminary (JCSTS) opens registration for its 2023 signature Drum Major for Justice Certificate Program. Applicants may visit the seminary’s website, jcsts.org, for more information and to register to become Learning Partners in the program.
Performer and screenwriter wants to expose young people to the arts
Richard Gallion is an actor, playwright and screenwriter. He knows firsthand what the arts can do for young people. He wants to give young people the opportunity to experience all facets of the entertainment industry.
National Museum of African American History and Culture Announces Honorary Chairs for Living History Campaign
President and Mrs. George W. Bush, President and Mrs. Barack Obama, and Oprah Winfrey to Join Ken Chenault and Shonda Rhimes to Lead $350 Million Living History Campaign to Extend Museum’s Reach
The Smithsonian’s National Museum of African History and Culture has selected the honorary chairs of its $350 million Living History Campaign to build the museum’s endowment and support its ongoing programs and digital initiatives. The honorary chairs include President and Mrs. George W. Bush, President and Mrs. Barack Obama, museum council chair Ken Chenault, television producer and writer Shonda Rhimes and multimedia and entertainment icon Oprah Winfrey.
Illinois Updates CPA Exam Eligibility, Reduces Credit-Hour Requirement
Effective Jan. 1, prospective certified public accountants in Illinois will only need to present proof of having 120 eligible semester credit hours, versus 150, and a baccalaureate degree to apply to sit for the Uniform CPA Exam, the universal exam all certified public accountant (CPA) candidates must pass to earn the distinguished CPA credential. Individuals passing the exam will still need 150 semester credit hours to become licensed.
Black Entertainment Summit aims to get more Black creatives in the industry
Jaia Thomas is an entertainment lawyer based in Los Angeles, Calif. She has been practicing law for more than 14 years, and served as an adjunct professor teaching entertainment courses. Years ago, she moved to Los Angeles from New York City. She didn’t know one person and was trying to get her foot in the door in the entertainment industry.
Gov. Pritzker Highlights Investments in Early Childhood Initiatives During Visit to Carole Robertson Center for Learning in Chicago
On Wednesday, Jan. 4, Governor JB Pritzker visited the Carole Robertson Center for Learning in the Little Village neighborhood of Chicago to highlight historic investments in early childhood education under his administration. The Governor was joined by Senator Cristina Pacione-Zayas, Senator Celina Villanueva, and Representative Camille Lilly.
Holy Culture Radio brings progressive music to the airwaves
Holy Culture Radio was founded by Vic Padilla in the late 1990s early 2000’s. Padilla was a lover of Christian Hip Hop. The station got its name from the Cross Movement’s “Holy Culture” album. Padilla’s radio show is now Holy Culture Radio. In April of 2022, it expanded to the Sirius XM platform and includes podcasts, videos, along with Christian Hip Hop music.
2023 CHICAGO AUTO SHOW GALA SET TO RAISE MILLIONS FOR 18 AREA CHARITIES
The Chicago Auto Show's 31st First Look for Charity black-tie gala will take place from 7 to 11 p.m. Friday, Feb. 10, at McCormick Place. The gala, produced by the Chicago Automobile Trade Association (CATA), the organization that represents local new-car dealers, is expected to bring in at least $2 million for 18 Chicago area charities.
CHICAGO AWARDED $144 MILLION THROUGH THE NEW BRIDGE INVESTMENT PROGRAM TO REHABILITATE ILLINOIS INTERNATIONAL PORT CALUMET RIVER BRIDGES
Mayor Lori E. Lightfoot and U.S. Senator Dick Durbin (D-IL) welcomed Vice President Kamala Harris to Chicago to announce $144 million in federal funding awarded to the City of Chicago to rehabilitate the Illinois International Port Calumet River Bridges. The grant was awarded through the U.S. Department of Transportation’s new Bridge Investment Program, which was created by President Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and will fund the major rehabilitation of four bascule bridges over the Calumet River that are vital to the local community, region, and nation.
Surgeon wants the healthcare system to change
Dr. Firouz Daneshgari is disrupting the healthcare system with his book, “Health Guardianship: The Remedy to the Sick Care System.” Daneshgari is a Surgeon-Scientist, Educator and Entrepreneur, who has worked at the University of Colorado, Cleveland Clinic and Case Western Reserve University, in Cleveland. He founded Bowtie Medical in 2014. Its goal is to create systemic innovations to bring efficiency and value to the healthcare delivery system.
Oakton Community College becomes Oakton College
Starting Jan. 17, Oakton Community College begins a new chapter in its proud history as it officially becomes Oakton College. Along with the name change, the College will unveil a new visual identity, including a modernization of the College’s iconic leaf logo and new College seal.
CITY OF CHICAGO ANNOUNCES INAUGURAL CHICAGO POET LAUREATE PROGRAM
Mayor Lori E. Lightfoot, in partnership with the Chicago Public Library (CPL), the Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events (DCASE), and the Poetry Foundation, are proud to announce the creation of the Chicago Poet Laureate program. The program comes from the advocacy of the city’s creative and civic communities. It aims to increase awareness of Chicago’s historic contributions to the literary arts while celebrating and honoring the efforts of Chicago’s working artists.
Supreme Court to Hear Case on President’s Student Debt Relief Program:
“The Supreme Court’s ruling on the student debt relief case will have deep repercussions for millions, especially students of color, who graduate with a much more severe debt burden than their white counterparts in this debt-for-diploma system.
HHS Issues New Strengthened Conscience and Religious Nondiscrimination Proposed Rule
The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Office for Civil Rights (OCR) announced a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (NPRM), entitled Safeguarding the Rights of Conscience as Protected by Federal Statutes, which proposes to restore the longstanding process for the handling of conscience complaints and provide additional safeguards to protect against conscience and religious discrimination.
Peoples Gas files rate request with state regulators Customer bills not expected to increase as part of the filing
Peoples Gas, today, filed a request with state regulators to restructure how costs are recovered from customers for critical infrastructure projects. The filing is not expected to increase the typical customer’s bill. With natural gas prices forecast to decline this year and next year, customer bills are expected to stay largely flat as new rates take effect in 2024.
Get Ready, Congress: Here Comes Gen Z
When 25-year-old Maxwell Frost of Florida takes his seat in the U.S House this month, he will be the nation’s first Gen Z member of Congress. That -- in and of itself -- is a major milestone and accomplishment. And what makes it even better is that Frost is a young Black man who won on a great platform focused on ending gun violence, addressing climate change and providing universal health care.
Friday, January 6
ONE NATION, INDIVISIBLE
America’s existential challenge is to put the former behind us permanently so we can finally achieve the latter and be what we pledge allegiance to -- one nation under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all. After the attack on the Capitol, I sat down to figure out how we might finally do that, and my answers have filled a book.
Thursday, January 5
MAYOR SHEILA CHALMERS- CURRIN & VILLAGE OF MATTESON WELCOMES NEW “HARBOR FREIGHT” DISCOUNT HARDWARE STORE
Mayor Sheila Chalmers- Currin and the Village of Matteson are thrilled to welcome another new area business to Matteson. Harbor Freight Quality Tools is among the most highly anticipated new companies within The Southland community.
THE VILLAGE OF LYNWOOD MAYOR JADA CURRY PRESENTS “BOWLING WITH BADGES”
Mayor Jada D. Curry and the Village of Lynwood are thrilled to present their first social event of the year, “Bowling with Badges.” Bowling with Badges is a kickoff event designed to create relationships with local officials and first responders. It’s tremendously important for children to feel supported and know the frontline members of their community. Students are encouraged to attend and feel welcome to sign up. Mayor Jada Curry hopes this event will help spark and develop healthy relationships between officials and students.
CALUMET CITY POLICE IS HIRING FULL-TIME 911 COMMUNICATION OFFICERS
Mayor Thaddeus Jones and the City of Calumet City are excited to announce the opening of available positions. Calumet City Police Department is looking for excellent communication officers that will work amongst the local police department as 9-1-1 communication operators. The Calumet City police department serves a population of 36,500 residents with a strong presence of ethnic and cultural diversity.
DECORATED CAREER POLICE OFFICER IS ENERGIZED, PRIMED AND READY FOR STRETCH RUN IN THE RACE FOR 21ST WARD ALDERMAN
24-year veteran Chicago Police Officer, Daliah Goree, has organized an outstanding campaign team and platform in her quest to become the next Alderman of Chicago’s 21st Ward.
First Installment Cook County property taxes due date pushed to April 3
Cook County property owners will have an extra month to pay their First Installment property taxes this year, and their bills are already available online.
Wednesday, January 4
ALDERMAN STEPHANIE COLEMAN FOCUSED, CONFIDENT AND PREPARED IN RUN FOR RE-ELECTION AS ALDERMAN OF THE CHICAGO’S 16TH WARD
CHICAGO’S YOUNGEST ALDERMAN DELIVERS ON COMMITMENT TO ECONOMIC GROWTH, SENIOR HOUSING, INCREASED HEALTH SERVICES AND AN IMPROVED INFRASTRUCTURE. ALDERMAN STEPHANIE COLEMAN FOCUSED, CONFIDENT AND PREPARED IN RUN FOR RE-ELECTION AS ALDERMAN OF THE CHICAGO’S 16TH WARD
MasterClass Announces Walgreens Boots Alliance CEO Rosalind Brewer to Teach Business Innovation
MasterClass, the streaming platform where anyone can learn from the world’s best across a wide range of subjects, announced that Walgreens Boots Alliance CEO Rosalind “Roz” Brewer will teach a class on business innovation and leading with integrity. Brewer’s class will trace her journey as a leader—from her early experiences as a research scientist through leading innovation and change across five different industries. MasterClass members will learn Brewer’s real-life strategies for making innovative decisions and driving change in uncertain times. Brewer’s class is now available exclusively on MasterClass, where subscribers get unlimited access to all 180+ instructors with an annual membership.
#buyblackart -- Harlem Fine Arts Show Announces 15th Anniversary
Harlem Fine Arts Show (HFAS) will celebrate their 15th year of being the largest traveling arts show featuring Artists from the African Diaspora. This show will feature up to 100 artists of African, Caribbean, and Black descent over a monumental three-day cultural experience and festival at the end of Black History Month, 2023, in New York City.
BRANDY ATTENDS H&M BUY FROM A BLACK WOMAN HOLIDAY MARKET IN LOS ANGELES
This holiday season, H&M and Buy From a Black Woman traveled from coast to coast to present the second year of the “Buy From a Black Woman Holiday Market” with events in New York City, Los Angeles, Miami and Chicago. The market featured BFABW vendors from around the US. H&M’s partnership and support will further assist the nonprofit’s mission of empowering, educating, and inspiring Black Women and the people who support them.
CIA Mission Possible Makerspace Nation offers Chicago educators a shot at a $30,000 Makerspace for their classroom Application deadline is March 10, 2023
Creating classroom makerspaces is a rapidly growing trend in schools across the country. Chicago educators can win a $30,000 makerspace for their classroom in the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) Mission Possible Makerspace Nation competition.
Ready for Our Earth Shot
In the 1960s and early 1970s, the United States spent the current dollar equivalent of just under $300 billion on “landing a man on the moon and returning him safely to Earth” as President Kennedy proposed in 1961. Ever since, that combination of aspiration and expenditure has made us call any well-financed goal that seems improbable, if not impossible, a “moonshot.”
Quilt exhibit showcases beauty and artistry of quilting
Dr. Tracy Vaughn-Manley is a professor in the African American Studies Department at Northwestern University. She has been making quilts since 2002, when she was teaching at Smith College, in Northampton, Mass.
EVANSTON CULTURAL ORGANIZATIONS JOIN TOGETHER JAN. 15 TO HONOR MARTIN LUTHER KING, JR.’S LEGACY
The Music Institute of Chicago and the Fleetwood-Jourdain Theatre present a free musical celebration of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., welcoming fellow Evanston arts organizations and community members and featuring remarks by Mayor Daniel Biss. The event takes place on Sunday, January 15 at 3 p.m. at Nichols Concert Hall, 1490 Chicago Avenue, Evanston. The performance also will be available via livestream.
Keeping the Record: The Archival Practice
Morgan Malone was thinking about who she was going to be and how her life would be preserved and saved in years to come. One of Malone’s mentors who is an architect has an extensive personal collection in the Art Institute of Chicago. Malone thought to herself that she needed to get into a documenting process. It led her to start her own archiving practice.
Rep. Kelly Secures Critical Maternal Health, Clinical Trial Diversity Provisions and Community Project Funding in Omnibus Legislation
Representative Robin L. Kelly (IL-02) voted in favor of critical health care provisions and funded important community projects in the Second Congressional District as part of the fiscal year 2023 appropriations government funding package.
Gov. Pritzker Signs Reimagining Electric Vehicles Act Amendment
Solidifying Illinois’ position as a leader in the emerging electric vehicle (EV) manufacturing industry, Governor JB Pritzker signed an amendment to the Reimagining Electric Vehicles in Illinois Act into law, further incentivizing EV production across the state.
House Passes Three Rush-led Bills All legislation heads to President Biden’s desk
U.S. Representative Bobby L. Rush (D-Ill.) applauded the House passage of three of his bills in the final weeks of his Congressional career. The House passed provisions based on Rush’s Martha Wright Prison Phone Justice Act (H.R. 2489), Bronzeville-Black Metropolis National Heritage Area Act (H.R. 670), and Allied Health Workforce Diversity Act (H.R. 3320). All three bills had previously passed the Senate, and now head to President Biden’s desk to be signed into law.
Pilar Audain is a leader in the trenches to heal traumatized communities
Pilar Audain believes a household is as strong as the woman who runs it. Audain is the Associate Director of Truth, Racial Healing and Transformation and the Founder of Wrap Your beYouty Movement. The work Audain does focuses on Black women, with an emphasis on communities and neighborhoods that have been traumatized and impacted by Anti-Blackness, racism and disparities that are happening on the South and West sides.
Governor Pritzker Issues Proclamation of Passage for Workers’ Rights Amendment Constitutional amendment guarantees right to bargain for Illinois workers
Governor JB Pritzker celebrated the passage of the Workers’ Rights Amendment to the Illinois Constitution. Governor Pritzker issued a proclamation announcing passage of the amendment and joined labor leaders and legislators in celebrating the achievement.
EPIC Academy Career Intensives Pair High School Students with High Profile Chicago Companies for Hands-On Experiences
Chicago, Ill. – Epic Academy College Prep, a public, open-enrollment charter high school, has carried on a long-time tradition of pairing EPIC Academy students with high profile Chicago companies through Career Intensives, EPIC’s signature career exploration program. The program provides hands-on career exposure and experience to students while in the classroom. Companies ranging from communication firms to tech companies meet with students during a two-week career exploration program that exposes students to unique career experiences while they are still in high school. Career Intensives allow students to learn, discover and connect with a myriad of careers and professions from around the city.
Dolton Native Grows as a Performer
Jeremy Bella, who goes by the stage name Hotblock Jmoe, grew up in Dolton, with his family. He always wanted to be an important person. He just didn’t know what he wanted to do. He always loved music, he grew up in the church and he was in the choir.
Mayoral Candidate wants a more equitable Chicago
Brandon Johnson thought he was going to be a public school teacher for the rest of his life and he enjoyed doing it. He began his teaching career at Edward Jenner Academy of the Arts in Cabrini Green and also worked at George Westinghouse College Prep High School on the city’s West side, where he is a resident. In October 2022, Johnson, who is a Cook County Commissioner announced his candidacy for Mayor of the City of Chicago.
CTA Elevating Futures Scholarship Fund Is Now Accepting Applications from CPS High School Students
In its fourth year, CTA’s Red and Purple Modernization (RPM) scholarship program, created by CTA and RPM contractor Walsh-Fluor, helps Chicago teens pursue degrees in construction and engineering-related fields
MAYOR LIGHTFOOT ANNOUNCES NEW CLIMATE INFRASTRUCTURE FUND FOR NONPROFIT ORGANIZATIONS AND SMALL BUSINESSES
Mayor Lori E. Lightfoot announced a new grant opportunity aimed at catalyzing climate action across Chicago by nonprofit organizations and small businesses. In partnership with the Department of Planning and Development’s Chicago Recovery Plan Initiative, the newly established Climate Infrastructure Fund will provide funding for renewable energy and energy efficiency improvements in buildings, support the purchase of electric vehicles and installation of electric vehicle charging stations, and enable green infrastructure solutions to capture stormwater and reduce onsite flooding. Applications will be scored on criteria related to climate mitigation and resilience factors, equity impact, and project readiness.
Sheriff’s Office Senior Citizen Law Enforcement Academy Holds Graduation Ceremony
More than two dozen senior citizens who completed the Cook County Sheriff’s Office Senior Law Enforcement Academy courses graduated Wednesday in ceremonies at the Phoenix Community Cafe in Phoenix, IL.