Thursday, August 21
Missing Persons Identification Act Becomes Law
Legislation championed by Cook County Sheriff Thomas J. Dart that creates new guidelines for missing persons investigations is now state law.
Clerk Mariyana Spyropoulos Hosts Second Chance Summit to Make Justice Accessible
Clerk of the Circuit Court Mariyana Spyropoulos announced the upcoming Second Chance Summit, a countywide initiative to ensure that the legal right to expungement and record sealing is not just written in law, but accessible in practice to every resident who qualifies.
South Suburban College and Superior Ambulance Announced Their Articulation Agreement Following The Groundbreaking Of The New Allied Health & Nursing Center
On Wednesday, August 20, 2025, South Suburban College (SSC) hosted a milestone day for healthcare education and workforce development in the region. Immediately following the groundbreaking of SSC’s new Allied Health & Nursing Center, the college formalize an Articulation Agreement with Superior Ambulance to expand career pathways in emergency medical services (EMS).
Wednesday, August 20
EARLY WALKER AND VMS TO ANNOUNCE HUGE EXPANSION PROMOTING DIVERSITY IN CHICAGO TOWING CONTRACT
Kevin Corcoran-CEO of Vehicle Management Solutions (VMS), along with Early Walker-Vice President of VMS Intergovernmental Affairs- will publicly announce a new diverse expansion program that will now allow outside towing operators, particularly minority firms, the opportunity to engage in towing operations for the city of Chicago.
ATTORNEY GENERAL RAOUL CALLS ON INSTAGRAM TO STRENGTHEN LOCATION PRIVACY
Attorney General Kwame Raoul, as part of a bipartisan coalition of 37 attorneys general, is urging Instagram to make immediate changes to its newly implemented location-sharing feature.
Don’t Forget the Least In Our Midst
Over the months that I have been writing this column, there is one area of planning that I have not identified or stressed enough. This week I have been confronted with the sad outcome of a parent who did not plan for the care and upkeep of their dependent adult child. Simply put, when the parent died, the child is now forced to move into housing for the homeless without the skills required for independent living.
10 Steps to Approach Memory Concerns in Others
When a loved one begins to show signs of memory loss or changes in behavior, it can be difficult to know where to start. Is it simply aging, or something more serious like Alzheimer’s or another form of dementia?
104-YEAR-OLD CAREER EDUCATOR RECENTLY LAUDED BY PRESIDENT OBAMA FOR REGISTERING TO VOTE SUCCUMBS
Calvin Jordan-Rich Township Supervisor- is announcing the passing of 104-year-old Rich Township resident and his grandmother in law, Jennie McDuffie. Affectionately known as “GG,” Mother Jennie passed away quietly on Sunday, August 17th, at her home in Olympia Fields surrounded by her loving family.
Local Organization Helped Entrepreneurs Scale Their Businesses Through A Community Partnership
Dr. Tchicaya Robertson founded Tribe Insights in 2023 because she saw that people in the community needed support when they were upscaling their businesses as part of their entrepreneurship journey. Robertson said as an entrepreneur herself, helping other entrepreneurs is a passion of hers. She believes that because of the political climate and environment, it is necessary for the Black community to be more independent. She said entrepreneurship is one way for people to be more independent and not depend on corporate America. Robertson left corporate America in 2023, and it led her to create Tribe Insights.
Tie Tuesday Foundation Makes Its Mark On Young People Through Mentorship
Daniel Jackson saw a great need for mentorship. As a Chicago Public School teacher, Jackson saw an opportunity to create something to support students outside of school. During his formative years, he had a mentor, and he wanted to be able to support young people in the same way he was supported when he was younger. He founded the Tie Tuesday Foundation in 2023.
Production of Oliver! Features Two African American Leads
Erline Dorcy has always been a theatre kid. She grew up watching a lot of musicals, Annie, the Sound of Musical, Grease and Oliver. She knew she always wanted to be a performer. She performed while she was in elementary school, high school and majored in Musical Theatre and Performance at Columbia College. When Dorcy is not performing, she is teaching performance and theatre.
Luella’s Southern Kitchen Celebrates Family Legacy
Chef Darnell Reed got into cooking at a very young age and began professionally at a young age. Growing up, he would watch Chef Justin Wilson on Channel 11. He chose culinary arts in high school while he was attending Dunbar Vocational High School. At 16, he worked in the kitchen at the Palmer House Hilton. Reed opened Luella’s Southern Kitchen in 2015 and recently re-opened the restaurant in a new location in Albany Park.
Congressman Davis Reflects On His Terms In Office
United States Congressman Danny K. Davis, D. Dist. 7, recently announced that he will not run for re-election at the end of his 15th term in 2027. Elected officials that currently hold office have announced their plans to run for his vacant seat.
Legendary Musician, Songwriter, and Producer Patrice Rushen to Headline Premiere Fireside Conversation at the Chicago House Music Conference
The Chicago House Music Conference will close out its Thursday programming with an unforgettable, premiere fireside conversation featuring one of music’s most respected and accomplished voices. On Thursday, August 21, from 8:00 pm to 9:00 pm at the Chicago Cultural Open House inside the Preston Bradley Hall located at 77 W. Washington Blvd., audiences will be treated to a rare, in-depth dialogue with the acclaimed musician, songwriter, and producer Patrice Rushen, whose artistry has shaped generations.
ILLINOIS STATE POLICE REMINDS MOTORISTS ABOUT SCHOOL BUS AND SCHOOL ZONE SAFETY
The Illinois State Police (ISP) is reminding motorists about school zone speed laws and sharing the road safely with buses as schools around the state prepare to open their doors for the new academic year.
Not for Profit Megan Butz Legacy of Hope Announces Opening of 2025 Grant Cycle
Megan Butz Legacy of Hope announces the opening of its 2025 grant cycle with $250,000 in funding available for Illinois-based organizations dedicated to providing mental health services focused on suicide prevention.
Nicor Illinois Community Investment awards $500,000 in Impact Grants to boost local economies
Northern Illinois — Nicor Illinois Community Investment (NICI) has awarded five $100,000 Impact Grants to nonprofits in Rockford and South Suburban Cook County. These grants support programs advancing economic mobility, small business growth and workforce development.
DCASE Expands Leadership Team with Key Appointments
The Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events (DCASE) and Commissioner Clinée Hedspeth today announced the appointments of Kim Grigsby, Esq., and Erik Madsen. Their combined expertise in law, public safety and community engagement will support the organization’s objectives to foster transformation, ingenuity and equity across all areas of its operations,
As Students Go Back to School, New Study Highlights the Importance of Clean Air in Classrooms
With students across the country preparing to head back to school in the weeks ahead, today the American Lung Association, in collaboration with Lakes International Language Academy (LILA), a charter school in Forest Lake, Minnesota, and Carrier, global leader in intelligent climate and energy solutions, released findings from an indoor air quality (IAQ) study in schools, reinforcing the urgent need for clean indoor air to support student health and academic success.
NABJ Selects Elise Durham as Its Next Executive Director
The National Association of Black Journalists (NABJ) has selected Elise Durham as its next executive director. Durham comes to NABJ with more than 30 years of professional work experience in television news management, strategic communications, and government relations, and has an extensive background leading dynamic, results-oriented teams. She is also a longtime member of NABJ.
Protect Your Voice This Back-to-School Season
As staff and students begin their return to classrooms, the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA) is urging the entire school community to take care of one of their most important tools: their voices.
Anne Klein Reunites with Supermodel BFFs Candice Swanepoel and Joan Smalls for New Campaign Celebrating Love
Supermodels Candice Swanepoel and Joan Smalls grace the streets of New York City as a dynamic duo for iconic American fashion brand Anne Klein. Both real-life best friends, their bond brings fresh authenticity to the campaign that is a tribute to women who balance careers and personal missions with elegance, and who uplift each other along the way.
The Burns Brothers Are Building More Than Businesses--They're Bridging the Diaspora
As Nairobi rises to global prominence with major United Nations agencies set to relocate their headquarters to the city, a new era for Africa is unfolding. John and Mike Burns—the visionary entrepreneurs and cultural architects known as The Burns Brothers—are building bridges across continents, advancing a movement of Black leadership that reflects Africa's expanding role on the world stage. From orchestrating historic White House events to launching Africa's first African American-owned private members' club, the brothers are charting an interconnected world where the diaspora thrives. Their expanding ecosystem of businesses now spans continents united by a singular mission: to uplift, connect, and inspire diverse communities through ownership, creativity, and opportunity.
MCA Chicago’s fourth annual Chicago Performs series planned for September 18–21
The Museum of Contemporary Art Chicago’s 2025 Chicago Performs showcase—an intimate festival of live arts highlighting essential local artists on a national platform—will kick off on Sept. 18-21, 2025. The fourth iteration of Chicago Performs includes work by Robyn Mineko Williams & Artists, Helen Lee/Momentum Sensorium, and Red Clay Dance Company. Taking place in the MCA’s Commons and Edlis Neeson Theater, this year’s performances will delve into themes of memory, remembrance, grief, and making space for joy and healing.
MCA Chicago’s fourth annual Chicago Performs series planned for September 18–21
The Museum of Contemporary Art Chicago’s 2025 Chicago Performs showcase—an intimate festival of live arts highlighting essential local artists on a national platform—will kick off on Sept. 18-21, 2025. The fourth iteration of Chicago Performs includes work by Robyn Mineko Williams & Artists, Helen Lee/Momentum Sensorium, and Red Clay Dance Company. Taking place in the MCA’s Commons and Edlis Neeson Theater, this year’s performances will delve into themes of memory, remembrance, grief, and making space for joy and healing.
Thursday, August 14
Rainbow PUSH Coalition Hosts Annual Back-to-School Block Party with Over 500 Free Backpacks and Vital Resources for South Side Families and Teachers
PUSH Excel, an initiative of the Rainbow PUSH Coalition, will host its annual Back-to-School Block Party on August 23 at the Rainbow PUSH Headquarters (930 E. 50th St., Chicago, IL 60615). This vibrant community event will offer more than 500 free backpacks, essential school supplies, gift cards to support teachers and access to a wide range of services to help families prepare for the academic year.
Wednesday, August 13
Salaam Community Wellness Center to Host Summer Health and Wellness Expo Featuring
Salaam Community Wellness Center is excited to host its 4th annual Integrative Health and Wellness Expo, set for Saturday, August 16, at Salaam Community Wellness Center, 613 E. 67th Street, in Chicago, from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. The free event is open to the public.
Assessor’s Office approves record number of tax-saving exemptions for seniors and veterans with disabilities
Cook County – The Cook County Assessor’s Office approved a record number of exemptions for seniors and veterans with disabilities in Tax Year 2024, helping tens of thousands of homeowners receive much-needed property tax savings.
Cook County Officials: Protect Children From Measles
County, religious and school leaders launch campaign to encourage vaccinating kids against measles
Today, during National Immunization Awareness Month, Cook County officials, school and religious leaders made a united call to encourage measles vaccinations as kids head back to school.
Don’t Forget the Least In Our Midst
Over the months that I have been writing this column, there is one area of planning that I have not identified or stressed enough. This week I have been confronted with the sad outcome of a parent who did not plan for the care and upkeep of their dependent adult child. Simply put, when the parent died, the child is now forced to move into housing for the homeless without the skills required for independent living.
How to Pay When Buying From Someone You Don’t Know: Keep These Tips In Mind to Help Avoid Scams
Credit cards, debit cards, cash, checks, wires or sending money to others using a P2P (person-to-person) payment app are examples of the many ways consumers can pay for everyday transactions. To help protect their money from scammers, it’s important for people to understand that how they pay matters, especially when buying something from someone they don’t know or trust.
5 Tips for Sandwich Caregivers on How to Balance Children and a Parent with Dementia
For many families, late summer ushers in the annual ritual known as “back to school.” Dreaded by kids and celebrated by parents, the return to school marks a time of transition to more rigid schedules after a few months of fun and flexibility.
Giannoulias & Local Elected Officials to Conduct South Side Town Hall Meeting to Combat High Car Insurance Rates
Illinois Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias is inviting South Side residents to attend at a Town Hall meeting on Wednesday, August 20, at Bright Star Church in Bronzeville, to discuss the skyrocketing cost of auto insurance.
Leave No Veteran Behind Continues To Support Veterans
A locally based organization with a national reach aims to support veterans through transitional jobs and scholarships that help pay student loans. Leave No Veteran Behind was founded in 2008 as a way to invest in veterans with the goal to build better communities. Leave No Veteran Behind co-founder Eli Williamson returned from deployment and found out he had student loan payments to make, as did his co-founder.
School Offers Scholarships To Children Of First Responders
St. Sabina Academy, located at 7801 S. Throop, is offering $2,000 scholarships to students whose parents are first responders. The school’s principal Veriner James said the goal of the scholarship is to make private education affordable and accessible to families. She said oftentimes families shy away from private school education because of the cost.
Kitchen + Kocktails Opens In Larger Location To Accommodate Growth
Kevin Kelley opened Kitchen + Kocktails by Kevin Kelley’s Chicago location in September of 2021. Earlier this month, the Chicago location moved into a larger 13,000 square foot space at 339 N. Dearborn Street. The restaurant which boasts elevated Southern classics and curated cocktails wants to continue to bring guests quality food and a great vibe.
Cecilia Cuff Is Chosen For Prestigious Design Fellowship As She Prepares For A New West Pullman Location
Cecilia Cuff, CEO and Founder of the Nascent Group, is known for the Bronzeville Winery and South Side Sanctuary, and her work to revitalize disinvested communities through hospitality and community design and building capacity for entrepreneurs.
Local Sports Agency Supports Its Athlete Clients Holistically
Aaron Garland co-founded the Collective Uplift in November of 2024 with the purpose to provide elite service to athletes. Garland had been a football player at the University of Connecticut and heard stories from former teammates and people in the football world about the transactional nature of sports agencies. He wanted to create a sports agency that was personable and supports the athlete holistically.
Teacher Quality and Retention Program celebrates 16 years of transforming classrooms and building educational leaders
Hundreds of educators who have been shaped by the Thurgood Marshall College Fund‘s (TMCF) Teacher Quality and Retention Program (TQRP), now entering its 16th year as one of TMCF’s signature programs.
Preserving Black Churches Application Period is Open
The African American Cultural Heritage Action Fund at the National Trust for Historic Preservation is pleased to announce that the application period is now open for its Preserving Black Churches grant program, a $60 million national initiative dedicated to uplifting historically Black churches and the communities that preserve them.
City of Chicago Hosts the 2025 Chicago House Music Festival and Conference Aug. 21-24
The City of Chicago’s Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events (DCASE) is proud to announce the lineup for the 2025 Chicago House Music Festival and Conference, celebrating the birthplace of House Music with four days of events that are open and free to the public from Aug. 21–24.
LISC, COOK COUNTY BUREAU OF ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT, AND COOK COUNTY ARTS ANNOUNCE RECIPIENTS OF CREATIVE PLACEMAKING GRANTS
LISC, in collaboration with Cook County Bureau of Economic Development and Cook County Arts, announced 14 nonprofit organizations selected to receive Creative Placemaking grants. The grants, ranging from $50,000 to $250,000, will support transformative, community-driven art projects across suburban Cook County, including public murals, community gardens, arts centers, and more.
South Suburban Community Group Donates School Supply Shopping Trip to Matteson School District 162 to Benefit Families; Surprises two families with back-to-school shopping spree
Shopping carts overflowing with school supplies and backpacks were steered around a south suburban Walmart Monday as Matteson School District 162 school administrators shopped for families in need.
Gift of Hope Community Foundation Honors Chicago Ald. Michelle A. Harris with 2025 Award for Compassionate Service
The Gift of Hope Community Foundation recognized Michelle A. Harris, 8th Ward City Council member for the City of Chicago, as the recipient of the 2025 Changer Award for Compassionate Service at the Annual Gift of Hope Community Foundation Charity Golf Outing on July 24 in Woodbridge, Illinois.
City Colleges of Chicago and Amazon-MLU bring enhanced Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning to the college’s faculty
City Colleges of Chicago is proud to announce an enhanced collaboration with Amazon Web Services (AWS) in a major expansion of its Machine Learning University Educator Enablement Program (MLU‑EEP) for faculty at City Colleges of Chicago.
HOPE CENTER FOUNDATION AND COOK COUNTY LAND BANK AUTHORITY BREAK GROUND ON AFFORDABLE HOUSING IN ROSELAND ON CHICAGO’S SOUTH SIDE
The Cook County Land Bank Authority (CCLBA) and the Hope Center Foundation today celebrated the start of construction of 10 new affordable homes in the Roseland neighborhood on the South Side of Chicago. The Hope Center Foundation and Chicago Neighborhood Initiatives (CNI) are proud co-developers of this transformative effort and active members of United Power for Action and Justice, a civic coalition leading the Reclaiming Chicago initiative. This bold campaign includes construction of 2,000 affordable homes citywide, including 1,000 on the South Side and 1,000 on the West Side.
New Food Truck Festival on South Side features Black-owned restaurants September 13
The nonprofit Far South Community Development Corporation (Far South CDC) — an organization that provides strategic community-building services to residents and businesses across Chicago’s Far South Side neighborhoods and south suburban Cook County — is excited to announce its new Food Truck Festival on Saturday, September 13 from 1 p.m.–5 p.m. This free all-ages event will be held in the parking lot of Maple Park Marketplace (821 W. 115th Street) at the southwest corner of Halsted Street and 115th Street in Chicago’s West Pullman neighborhood, across from the Morgan Park Commons development.
CAL RIPKEN, SR. FOUNDATION AND EXELON FOUNDATION HOST RIBBON-CUTTING CELEBRATION AT SUNRISE DAY CAMP-CHICAGO STEM CENTER
Inspiring young minds through science — and a little baseball magic — the Cal Ripken, Sr. Foundation, Exelon, the Exelon Foundation, and ComEd, hosted a special celebration for children undergoing cancer treatment. The day began at Sunrise Day Camp–Chicago’s new STEM center followed by a trip to Wrigley Field to see the hometown Cubs host the Baltimore Orioles.
One Hope United Opened New Hope Center Kankakee
One Hope United opened its newest location, Hope Center Kankakee, on Wednesday, July 30, with a primary focus on delivering Intensive Placement Stabilization (IPS) services—specialized, trauma-informed support to help stabilize youth in foster care who are at risk of placement disruption.
Chicago Fire FC Midfielder Kellyn Acosta to be Featured in “Celebrating Impact”
Audi of America, Major League Soccer (MLS) and The Players’ Tribune announced that Kellyn Acosta of Chicago Fire FC will be featured in the Celebrating Impact content series for his demonstration of excellence in driving progress in his community.
Chicago Sinfonietta celebrates the 25th anniversary of African Heritage Symphonic Series, Vol. 1 on Cedille Records
This season, Chicago Sinfonietta celebrates the 25th anniversary of its first orchestral album with Cedille Records, African Heritage Symphonic Series (AHSS) – Volume I, released in 2000. The renowned, acclaimed CD set the orchestra’s focus in recorded sound.
Sarah Jakes Roberts' Woman Evolve and Wells Fargo Launch Mind Your Business Capital Pitch Competition to Fuel Entrepreneurs Nationwide
At the intersection of faith, finance, and the future of entrepreneurial businesses, Sarah Jakes Roberts' Woman Evolve and Wells Fargo unveiled the Mind Your Business Capital Pitch Competition, powered by Wells Fargo. The announcement was made live from the sold-out Mind Your Business Luncheon, a cornerstone experience within the global Woman Evolve 2025 conference (WE25), now underway in Atlanta.
Sidus Space Appoints Tech Entrepreneur and Global Business Leader Tiffany Norwood to its Board of Directors
Sidus Space (NASDAQ: SIDU), (the “Company” or “Sidus”), an innovative space and defense technology company, today announced the appointment of Tiffany Norwood to its Board of Directors. Norwood is a globally recognized serial entrepreneur and technology pioneer with more than 35 years of experience launching disruptive innovations across the space, telecommunications, digital media, and fintech sectors.
Bridging the gap: 5 strategies to address mental health disparities among minority youth
Tanya L. Anderson, MS, LPC, executive director, Youth Villages Georgia shares thoughts on mental health disparities among minority youth.
Skechers Confirms OG Anunoby Joins Its Roster
Confirming the fan speculation surrounding his headline-grabbing slam dunk in SKX REIGN™ shoes during the 2025 NBA playoffs in May, Skechers officially announces that New York Knicks forward OG Anunoby has joined Team Skechers. In addition to competing in Skechers Basketball footwear, the NBA Champion and defensive powerhouse will appear in the brand’s global marketing campaigns.
New Secretary of State DMV+ Opens in Champaign
Illinois Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias’ office has transformed its Champaign facility into the first DMV+ facility outside of the Chicago area, offering new services and reduced wait times.
UNIA Vice President Joined With Local Ministry Leaders To Celebrate The 138th Anniversary Of Marcus Garvey
Pastor Walter Hicks and First Lady Vicky Hicks of the New Macedonia Missionary Church joined with President Shaka Barak of The Marcus Garvey Institute, and Vice President of a Chicago Division of the Universal Negro Improvement Association and African Communities League (UNIA) in holding the 138th Anniversary celebration of the birth of the Jamaican born, Honorable Marcus Mosiah Garvey on Sunday August 17, 2025 from 2pm -5pm at their Church located at 432 West 103rd Street, Chicago 60628.
Monday, August 11
Chicago Teachers Union Hosts Third Annual Back-to-School Summer Jam to Serve Hundreds of Families
The Chicago Teachers Union (CTU) is proud to announce its third Annual Back to School Summer Jam will take place on Saturday, August 16, 2025 from 10 AM - 3 PM at the CTU Center, 1901 W Carroll!
Friday, August 8
Giannoulias & Local Elected Officials to Conduct South Side Town Hall Meeting to Combat High Car Insurance Rates
Illinois Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias is inviting South Side residents to attend at a Town Hall meeting on Wednesday, August 20, at Bright Star Church in Bronzeville, to discuss the skyrocketing cost of auto insurance.
NCBCP President & CEO Melanie L. Campbell Statement on the 60th Anniversary of the Voting Rights Act of 1965
On August 6, 2025 we paused to celebrate the 60th Anniversary of the historic Voting Rights Act of 1965 (VRA), the landmark law that granted and protected long-denied voting rights for Black Americans. Unfortunately, since 2010 over 25 states have enacted restrictive voter suppression laws to create barriers to minority, low-income and young voters. Also, the 2013 U. S. Supreme Court voting rights decision, Shelby v. Holder, further weakened the enforcement powers of the VRA that has left voters vulnerable to more barriers.
Thursday, August 7
TCA HEALTH HOLDS GRAND OPENING FOR NEW HEGEWISCH LOCATION
TCA Health is announcing the grand opening of its newest clinic in Chicago’s Hegewisch community. The former bank building underwent a total gut rehab that transformed the site into a clinic with five exam rooms, a triage space and pharmacy. TCA Health's newest location at 13336 S. Baltimore Ave., will be open for tours Thursday, Aug. 7, 2025, from 2 p.m. - 3:30 p.m. This clinic marks TCA's seventh facility on the city’s South Side, including its Mobile Student Health Clinic. Elected officials expected to be in attendance are 10th Ward Alderperson Peter Chico and state Senator Elgie Sims Jr., who represent Hegewisch.
Cori Bush, Former Member of "The Squad" in the U.S. House, Joins Ida's Legacy for Annual Summer Mixer
In 2017, Ida's Legacy was formed as the first political action committee to support progressive African American women candidates in Illinois. At our first summer mixer, Legacy & Libations, our featured guests were four women representing various stages of their political journeys. Sharon Fairley, who ran for the first time to be the state's attorney general; Nicole Johnson, who ran for the first time to be 20th Ward alderperson; Donna Miller, who had run for state Senate and was considering her next campaign; and Lauren Underwood, who had beat six opponents in her primary for Congress, all shared their campaign experiences of being under estimated and under funded.
Cook County Department of Public Health Honored with Five National Achievement Awards
Cook County Department of Public Health (CCDPH) is proud to announce that five of its programs received achievement awards from the National Association of Counties (NACo) during its 2025 Annual Conference and Exposition, held July 11–18 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
City of Chicago Announces Record Expansion of Individual Artists Program Grants
The City of Chicago’s Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events (DCASE) announced a record expansion of its Individual Artists Program (IAP), underscoring the City’s deepening commitment to creative equity and artist support across all neighborhoods. This year’s awards represent a significant increase in support from grantees funded in 2024 with nearly 250 grantees for 2025, reflecting the City’s ongoing investment in its creative community and its belief that artists are essential to civic life, community well-being and economic vitality.
Wednesday, August 6
CALUMET CITY CITY COUNCIL PASSES MAYOR JONES’S BALANCED $76 MILLION FISCAL BUDGET
Calumet City - Mayor Thaddeus M. Jones- successfully introduced a balanced $76 million fiscal budget to the Calumet City City Council for passage. The presentation illustrated $26 million in grants as well as the closing of a 3.9-million-dollar deficit due to anticipated cuts and rollbacks from the federal government.
Cook County Commissioners Want Mental Health Services To Be More Accessible
Cook County Commissioners are sounding the alarm about the need for more accessible mental health services in the community for young people. During an event at Larry’s Barber College, Cook County Commissioners Dr. Kisha McCaskill and Tara Stamps highlighted the need to meet young people where they are in places like beauty and barber shops as a way to make mental health services more accessible, and provide safe spaces for them to express themselves through creative outlets.
Actor Wants People to Lead with Love
Ramone Nelson fell in love with musical theatre in high school when he was cast as Jean Valjean in the production of “Les Misérables.” He fell in love with the research of it and the work he had to put into the character.
XL Film Fest Creates Ecosystem For Artists’ Success
Troy Pryor has been in the entertainment industry since 2004. Pryor began as an extra on a movie that was filming in Atlanta. Entertainment was really something he was invested in. He was in college at the University of Illinois and playing football.
TRIO Upward Bound Students Named Cubs Scholars
Three Upward Bound students have received Cubs scholarships. Wyneisha Boyd, a junior at Gwendolyn Brooks High School; Kanyla Stephens, a junior at Gwendolyn Brooks High School; and Brielle Sterling, a junior at Kenwood Academy High School, were recognized recently during a breakfast at Wrigley Field.
Herbalism Events Serve As A Way to Heal Community
Urban Growers Collective will be hosting herbalism events in August. The herbalism workshops will take place at the South Chicago farm, which is located at 9001 S. Mackinaw.
MYLES MACKIE: A REMARKABLE STORY OF A YOUNG BLACK MAN MASTERING STEM TO MAKE A DIFFERENCE IN COMMUNITIES
As a college student, Myles Mackie spent a summer researching the effects free stream turbulence research on low speed airfoils at the DEVCOM Army Research Labs, another helping design a user interface at a NASA Jet Propulsion Laboratory, and yet another working with MIT experts to reduce propeller noise in electric Vertical Take-Off and Landing (eVTOL) aircraft for applications in urban areas.
Lyric Opera of Chicago and Black Leadership Arts Collective Partner for Echoes of Excellence Recital
Lyric Opera of Chicago and the Black Leadership Arts Collective (B.L.A.C.) proudly present Echoes of Excellence: Celebrating the Legacy of Chicago’s Black Voices, a one-night-only recital honoring the profound contributions of Black artists to Lyric, to the city of Chicago, and to the broader operatic field. The event will take place on Saturday, November 8, 2025, at 7:30 p.m. at the Lyric Opera House. Following the recital, B.L.A.C. will host a fundraising gala at Lyric.
2026 YOUNGARTS AWARD COMPETITION OPEN NOW THROUGH OCTOBER 8
YoungArts, the national organization dedicated to the advancement of artists, is now accepting applications for its prestigious annual competition. Artists ages 15-18 or in grades 10–12 are encouraged to apply online at youngarts.org/apply through October 8, 2025. YoungArts award winners receive financial awards ranging from $250 to $10,000 and are eligible for creative and professional development support throughout their careers. Applications are adjudicated through a rigorous blind process by esteemed discipline-specific artist panels. YoungArts 2026 award winners will be announced on November 24.
Lab Schools are a vital foundation for Young Children's Education
As education systems across the country seek more effective, research-driven approaches to early childhood development, Laboratory (Lab) schools have emerged as a cornerstone for shaping young learners. City Colleges of Chicago offers child Development Laboratory Schools at five of its campuses, providing children age 2-5 with dynamic, hands-on learning experiences grounded in best practices and the latest research. Program include Head Start and Preschool for All. The next program year begins August 21, 2025. Spaces are limited. Waitlists are available.
Infleqtion to Accelerate Quantum Computing in Illinois and Locate Computing Headquarters in Chicago
The Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO) and Intersect Illinois announced that quantum company Infleqtion will headquarter its global quantum computing operations in Illinois as a future tenant of the Illinois Quantum and Microelectronics Park (IQMP). As part of the expected $50 million investment, the company will create dozens of new jobs, accelerating the growth of its hardware and software workforce and cementing a major expansion of its presence in the state’s innovation ecosystem. This announcement comes as hundreds of quantum leaders from business, government, and academia across the globe gather for the inaugural Global Quantum Forum hosted in Chicago.
Young Women in Illinois Revved Up to Build, Race Electric Vehicles in ComEd’s EV Rally
Forty-five young women geared up for ComEd’s third EV Rally, a program designed to educate female students on electric vehicles (EVs), science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) principles and the future of clean energy while connecting with female ComEd mentors.
Giannoulias Launches Driving Change Campaign for Auto Insurance Fairness
Illinois Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias is launching a statewide advocacy campaign aimed at preventing insurance companies from using socio-economic data – such as credit scores, zip codes and age – to charge Illinoisans higher auto insurance rates.
City of Chicago Announces Full Lineup for 2025 Chicago Air & Water Show, Aug. 16-17
The City of Chicago and Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events (DCASE) will present the 2025 Chicago Air & Water Show on Aug. 16 and 17 along the lakefront from Fullerton Avenue to Oak Street, with North Avenue Beach serving as the show center from 10:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. each day. First held in 1959, the 66th Chicago Air & Water Show remains the largest free-admission event of its kind. This year’s headliners include the U.S. Army Parachute Team Golden Knights and U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds.
City of Chicago Announces Record Expansion of Individual Artists Program Grants
The City of Chicago’s Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events (DCASE) announced a record expansion of its Individual Artists Program (IAP), underscoring the City’s deepening commitment to creative equity and artist support across all neighborhoods. This year’s awards represent a significant increase in support from grantees funded in 2024 with nearly 250 grantees for 2025, reflecting the City’s ongoing investment in its creative community and its belief that artists are essential to civic life, community well-being and economic vitality.
Hope Credit Union to Merge with 1st Choice Credit Union
Hope Credit Union has agreed to merge with 1st Choice Credit Union in Atlanta. Hope Credit Union, with its affiliates, Hope Enterprise Corporation and Hope Policy Institute (collectively known as HOPE), combine to form one of the nation's most impactful community development organizations and largest Black- and women-owned financial institutions.
Gift of Life in Collaboration with Labcorp and DOUBLEMINT®, Launch Hero Gum to Expand Marrow Donor Registry
Signing up for the stem cell registry just got a whole lot easier — and tastier — thanks to a bold new initiative from Gift of Life Marrow Registry. In collaboration with Labcorp, a global leader of innovative and comprehensive laboratory services, and DOUBLEMINT®, proudly part of Mars, the nonprofit is introducing Hero Gum, a first-of-its-kind donor registration kit that pairs a stick of gum with a scientifically validated method for DNA collection.
AFROTECH™ Wants To Ensure International Innovators Gain Access To Game-Changing Career, Networking, And Funding Opportunities
The annual AFROTECH™ Conference is designed to expose Black professionals to innovation and wealth-building opportunities within sectors that include AI, marketing and advertising, cybersecurity and risk, product and design, fintech, esports, and government and civics. Additionally, it is a launchpad to endless networking conversations, funding opportunities, and your next career move. Wells Fargo employee Aaron McBee credits the 2022 AFROTECH™ Conference for helping him land a role at the company, as AFROTECH™ previously reported.
HBCU ELI at Clark Atlanta University
The Executive Leadership Institute at Clark Atlanta University (HBCU ELI) proudly marks its fifth anniversary with a celebration honoring three groundbreaking leadership cohorts: the distinguished Community of Fellows, the HBCU New Presidents Program, and the inaugural Women Leaders Program. Together, these initiatives represent HBCU ELI's unwavering commitment to developing visionary leaders equipped to navigate today's higher education landscape and champion the future of Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs).
Cook County Department of Public Health Honored with Five National Achievement Awards
Cook County Department of Public Health (CCDPH) is proud to announce that five of its programs received achievement awards from the National Association of Counties (NACo) during its 2025 Annual Conference and Exposition, held July 11–18 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.
Road to 40: Firstline Brands Launches New Products Ahead of 40th Anniversary
As Firstline Brands approaches its 40th anniversary, the leading textured hair accessory company in the U.S. honors its enduring legacy through bold product innovation and culturally-rooted community engagement.
Award-winning actress, producer Marsai Martin to serve as Creative Ambassador for the 2025 HBCU First LOOK Film Festival November 6–8, 2025
The 2025 HBCU First LOOK Film Festival announced that actress/producer and entrepreneur Marsai Martin will be the Creative Ambassador for the third annual film festival. Convening again at Howard University from November 6 – 8, 2025; the HBCU First LOOK Film Festival will continue to provide a platform for young creatives to present their work and learn about the diverse aspects of the business from HBCU alumni and industry allies who support the cultural institutions.
Academy Award Honoree and Multi-Emmy Winner Debbie Allen to Deliver Keynote at CommHIT25 at Kennedy Space Center
Internationally acclaimed actor, director, choreographer, and philanthropist Debbie Allen will deliver the keynote address at CommHIT25, taking place December 4–5, 2025 at CommHIT's headquarters at NASA/Kennedy Space Center. Hosted by CommHIT, the two-day annual event brings together leaders in business, healthcare, and technology to explore the theme "Coopetition: The Art of Competing and Collaborating."
Illinois Housing Development Authority Now Accepting Applications for Permanent Supportive Housing Funding
The Illinois Housing Development Authority (IHDA) is now accepting applications for its Permanent Supportive Housing (PSH) Development Program, offering loans, forgivable loans, and grants to developers building or preserving affordable housing paired with essential case management and supportive services.
RFP Process Launched for Chicago State University’s University Village 95 Mixed-Use Development
CBRE, in partnership with Chicago State University (CSU), is pleased to announce the launch of a Request for Proposals for University Village 95, a transformative mixed-use development opportunity located in the heart of Chicago’s South Side. This initiative marks a significant milestone in CSU’s long-term vision to expand student housing and catalyze economic revitalization along the 95th Street Corridor.
Sachs Foundation Launches Alumni Board to Advance Black Leadership in Philanthropy
The Sachs Foundation has launched its inaugural Alumni Board, a bold initiative placing Black leadership at the center of philanthropic decision-making. Composed entirely of former Sachs Scholars, the Alumni Board will guide discretionary grantmaking and contribute to shaping the Foundation's strategic direction, marking a new chapter in alumni engagement and community-led impact.
Tuesday, August 5
Experience the Soulful Sounds of Jazz at Rainbow Beach: Chicago Jazz Philharmonic Presents Rajiv Plays Cannonball
Orbert Davis' Chicago Jazz Philharmonic invites you to its 2025 Free Summer Concert Series with a special tribute to one of jazz’s most influential saxophonists. Join us for Rajiv Plays Cannonball, Wednesday, August 6, 2025, from 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM at Norman’s Bistro on the Lake at Rainbow Beach, 3111 E. 77th Street, Chicago for an evening dedicated to celebrating the legendary Cannonball Adderley and his enduring musical legacy.
THE VILLAGE OF ROBBINS UNVEILING OF ALL NEW FOOTBALL FIELD FOR YOUTH FOOTBALL TEAM UPSTAGED BY THIEVES WHO STOLE 12K WORTH OF FOOTBALL EQUIPMENT
The Mayor of Robbins, Illinois- will be joined by the Robbins Village Board, Robbins Eagles Coaching staff, regional elected officials, and residents as they gather to witness the public unveiling of the all-new Robbins Eagles Football field. However, the group will also make a public appeal for people to donate towards the organization amid the recent theft of football equipment in which the young players need to start the season.
Friday, August 1
CHRISTMAS IN THE WARDS GEAR UP FOR MAJOR BACK-TO-SCHOOL GIVEAWAY TO SUPPORT WEST SIDE CHICAGO FAMILIES
Saturday, August 2, 2025, CITW will host a Back-to-School Giveaway at JLM Life Center, 2622 W. Jackson Blvd, Chicago, IL. The invitation-only event will provide more than 1,000 backpacks filled with school supplies, alongside essentials like clothing, diapers, personal care products, fresh fruits and vegetables, healthy lunches, Pepsi beverages, and more. Most notable are the “Be the Voice #StopSuicide” branded clothes provided by In His Hands Resource Center, Inc. to address suicide among teenagers. The #StopSuicide movement message is one of hope, support, and action: "Together, a world can be created where no one feels alone in their struggles. Suicide is preventable, and everyone has a role in fostering understanding and compassion.”