Friday, October 31
DISAPPOINTED SNAP RECIPIENTS TO TURN OUT IN HUGE NUMBERS TO RECEIVE MUCH NEEDED SUPPORT PRIOR TO HOLIDAYS
Stephanie Coleman – Alderwoman of Chicago’s 16th Ward- will be joined by 3rd Ward Alderman Pat Dowell, community leaders, elected officials, and Go Green Community Fresh Market executives in an emergency response to the recent shutdown of the federally funded SNAP program. Alderman Coleman, along with the team from the Christmas in the Wards Organization, will distribute a $50 gift card for GO Green Community Fresh Market customers beginning at 10:00 AM on Saturday, November 1st, 2025.
Thursday, October 30
SNAP RECIPIENTS AND OTHERS TO RESPOND TO RICH TOWNSHIP SUPERVISOR AND COOK COUNTY COMMISSIONER'S OLIVE BRANCH AND WILL RECEIVE MUCH NEEDED FOOD AHEAD OF SNAP DEADLINE
Rich Township Supervisor Calvin Jordan and Cook County Commissioner Kisha McCaskill will lead a mass group of volunteers and staffers in distributing food to hundreds and possibly well over 1000 residents who most are dependent upon the SNAP program. The giveaway will be held at the Rich Township Food Pantry .
Wednesday, October 29
Viral TikTok Creator Reesa Teesa Reclaims Her Power in a New Book Deal
Storehouse Voices, an imprint within the Crown Publishing Group (a division of Penguin Random House) announced the acquisition of storyteller and viral social content creator Tareasa "Reesa Teesa" Johnson's What (TF) Do I Do Now? dubbed "not just a memoir, it's a survival guide." Johnson is represented by CAA who negotiated the deal.
TUBI ANNOUNCES ROSEMARY IDISI AS WINNER OF STUBIOS GREENLIGHT CONTEST
Tubi (www.tubi.tv), Fox Corporation’s (NASDAQ: FOXA, FOX) ad-supported streaming service, announced actress, writer, and producer Rosemary Idisi as the winner of its first-ever Stubios Greenlight Contest. Idisi’s original horror/thriller, GLAMPING, is slated to premiere as a Tubi Original. Idisi was selected from a competitive pool of finalists and received the highest fan support during the program’s beta phase, reflecting the growing demand for authentic, underrepresented voices in film and TV.
BULLS REMIX FAN FAVORITES WITH 2025-26 CITY EDITION UNIFORM AND RETAIL COLLECTION
The Chicago Bulls unveiled the team’s 2025-26 Nike NBA City Edition uniforms and retail collection, presented by motorola razr. The designs took inspiration from the fan-favorite Bulls’ 2017-18 City Edition uniform, which was also the first in team history.
Chicago Thanksgiving Parade Returns for Its 91st Year -- A Dazzling Celebration of Culture, Music & Community
The beloved Chicago Thanksgiving Parade returns for its 91st year on Thursday, November 27, 2025, from 8:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. CST, traveling north along Chicago's iconic State Street from Ida B. Wells Drive to Randolph Street. This free, family-friendly holiday tradition promises a spectacular morning of floats, marching bands, cultural performances, equestrian units, and more — all brought to life by local, national, and international talent.
LET IT BE US ANNOUNCES HOLIDAY TOY DRIVE AND GINGERBREAD FUNDRAISER IN SUPPORT OF CHILDREN IN FOSTER CARE AND THOSE AWAITING ADOPTION ACROSS ILLINOIS
Let It Be Us, a licensed child welfare agency and trusted leader in adoption and foster care innovation, will host two holiday initiatives to benefit children in foster care and those awaiting across Illinois. Already a statewide leader in adoption reform, Let It Be Us continues to enhance the visibility, accessibility, and support systems surrounding the adoption process. As part of its mission, the organization utilizes and manages the Illinois Adoption Listing Service and The Heart Gallery of Illinois, providing caseworkers and prospective families with an interactive, user-friendly platform highlighting children and teens awaiting permanent, loving families. Through this system, families can view profiles, learn about each child’s unique story and interests, and take the first step toward adoption.
George M. Pullman Educational Foundation Receives $10 Million from MacKenzie Scott to Advance 75-Year Legacy of College Access for Cook County High School Students
The George M. Pullman Educational Foundation (GPEF), a nonprofit dedicated to advancing access to higher education for Cook County students, announced today that philanthropist MacKenzie Scott has awarded the organization a $10 million unrestricted gift. This substantial contribution supports GPEF’s endowment, empowering the Foundation to sustain and expand the vital resources it provides its Pullman Scholars. These include renewable scholarships of up to $40,000 over four years — alongside an array of wrap-around services designed to help ensure students graduate on time with little or no debt.
Illinois Poison Center Shares Halloween Safety Tips to Keep Kids Safe from Hidden Hazards
As families prepare to celebrate Halloween, the Illinois Poison Center (IPC) is reminding parents and caregivers about the growing number of accidental poisonings reported during the season, including cases involving dry ice, glow sticks, cosmetics, and occasionally candy.
Illinois Together Against Hate: Building a Roadmap for the Nation
More than 200 people participated in the 2025 Illinois Together Against Hate: Human Rights in Action Conference on Oct. 21 in Champaign, Illinois. The Illinois Department of Human Rights (IDHR), the Illinois Commission on Discrimination and Hate Crimes (CDHC), and the City of Champaign’s Equity & Engagement Department collaborated efforts to amplify conversations and strengthen partnerships to combat hate.
Illinois Housing Development Authority and LISC Open Applications to Grow the Next Generation of Housing Developers
The Illinois Housing Development Authority (IHDA) and the Local Initiatives Support Corporation (LISC) announced today that individuals may now apply to be part of the 2026 class of the Next Gen Capacity Building Initiative (Next Gen), a program designed to expand the talent pipeline for emerging developers to gain knowledge in the Low-Income Housing Tax Credit (LIHTC) industry. Next Gen equips for-profit and nonprofit developers with critical training, technical assistance, and understanding of financial resources to bring affordable housing to life in communities across Illinois.
Become a roads scholar, get your new Illinois highway map
The Illinois Department of Transportation announced the release of the new Illinois Official Highway Map. The map includes updates to listings and locations of colleges and universities, Amtrak service, tourist attractions, recreational areas – and more! It also commemorates next year’s 100th anniversary of Route 66, with updates that better represent the alignment of the historic road.
Chicago Public Schools Opens ADA Accessible Garden at Southside School
Bees will be buzzing as native flowers, plants, and fruit take root at Southside Occupational Academy, where a fully ADA-accessible garden will serve as an outdoor classroom for students with disabilities.
BLACK ARTS & CULTURE ALLIANCE OF CHICAGO (BACA) ANNOUNCES THE 2025 BLACK EXCELLENCE AWARDS
The Black Arts & Culture Alliance of Chicago (BACA) announces the 2025 Black Excellence Awards, honoring and celebrating Chicago theatre, dance, music, film, literary, and visual artists. The 24th annual event will be held at 7:30pm on Monday, November 3, 2025, at Black Ensemble Theater, 4450 N. Clark St. in Chicago.
Ignite Named One of the Top 100 Finalists for the 24th Annual Chicago Innovation Awards
Out of 315 nominees, Ignite has been selected as one of the Top 100 Finalists still in the running for the 24th annual Chicago Innovation Awards. The awards celebrate the most innovative new products and services in the Chicago region across all organization sizes, sectors and industries. Over 700 business and civic leaders will come together to honor the winners when they are announced on November 13th at the UIC Forum.
O’HARE MARKS BUSIEST SUMMER EVER, SURPASSING PRE-PANDEMIC PEAK FOR THE SEASON
O’Hare International Airport recorded the busiest summer in its 70-year history, Mayor Brandon Johnson and the Chicago Department of Aviation (CDA) announced.
Giannoulias’ Office Accepting John Lewis Youth Leadership Award Nominations
The Illinois Secretary of State’s office is accepting applications for the 2025 John Lewis Youth Leadership Award (JLYLA), Secretary Alexi Giannoulias announced. The award celebrates the efforts of young Illinoisans between the ages of 18 to 25 who have made exceptional civic contributions to their communities
Clark Atlanta University Receives Historic $16.5 Million Gift as Part of Arthur M. Blank Family Foundation's $50 Million HBCU Commitment
Clark Atlanta University (CAU) announced it will receive $16.5 million as part of the Arthur M. Blank Family Foundation's landmark $50 million, 10-year scholarship commitment to Atlanta's Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs). This transformative gift, the largest private donation in CAU's history, will provide critical financial support to help students overcome barriers to graduation.
MADE WINS $50,000 IN FIRST-EVER "KEEP IT 100" PITCH COMPETITION SPONSORED BY ELITE MEDIA
MADE, a verification system developed to protect Black creativity, was declared the winner of the inaugural "Keep It 100" Pitch Competition sponsored by Elite Media. The winner was announced at The One Club's "Where Are All the Black People" Conference in New York City on Friday evening, October 17.
NBCC Reaffirms its Support to Dream Exchange and Its Mission to Open Public Markets to Small Businesses
The National Black Chamber of Commerce (NBCC) reaffirmed its support for Dream Exchange and its effort to expand access to public capital markets for small, midsized, and minority-owned businesses across the United States.
Healthy Churches 2030 Virtual Conference - Building Healthy Congregations, Families and Communities
The 12th Annual Healthy Churches 2030 Virtual Conference mission is to educate, empower and advocate for healthy behavior change and outcomes within African American communities. This three-day virtual health event, November 17–19, is presented by The Balm In Gilead, Inc., a non-profit with a 38-year legacy of addressing health disparities through churches globally.
New National Resource Hub Launched to Support Women of Color Living With Metastatic Breast Cancer
In honor of Metastatic Breast Cancer Awareness Day, Breastcancer.org, in partnership with the Tigerlily Foundation, has launched a new Metastatic Breast Cancer (MBC) Resource Hub — a comprehensive, bilingual, mobile-friendly platform designed to meet the cultural and community needs of people living with metastatic breast cancer, with a special focus on Black and African American women who face disproportionate barriers to care. The hub is available in both English and Spanish to ensure broader access and inclusion for diverse communities.
Beyond the Screen: How Trading Cards Support Learning in a Digital Age
Parents, teachers, and even pediatricians have tried everything to manage kids’ screen time — banning phones from bedrooms, requiring outdoor play, encouraging reading, even prescribing medications. But the pull of technology isn’t going away. Social media, streaming platforms, and artificial intelligence tools are programmed to grab the attention of young people with remarkable effectiveness.
IDPH Marks Lead Poisoning Prevention Week, October 19-25
The Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) is observing Lead Poisoning Prevention Week, October 19-25, and reminding all parents and caregivers of young children to be aware of risk factors for lead poisoning and how to prevent it.
Calumet City New Paratransit Transfer Facility
Thaddeus Jones- Mayor of Calumet City and Illinois State Representative of the 29th District- was joined by Pace Chairman Rick Kwasneski; Pace Executive Director Melinda Metzger, various members of the Calumet City City Council, and Calumet City residents, in a groundbreaking celebration of an all-new Pace Paratransit Facility in Calumet City. The historic event took place on Tuesday, October 21st at the construction site located at 1370 Ring Road in Calumet City, Illinois.
Time Change This Sunday Can Deeply Affect Those Living With Alzheimer’s and Dementia
As clocks “fall back” one hour this Sunday, November 2, marking the end of Daylight-Saving Time (DST), most Americans will welcome the extra hour of rest. But for people living with Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia, this annual adjustment can bring confusion, disrupted routines, and sleepless nights that ripple through households.
South Side Community Art Center Opens Interim Offices in The DuSable Black History Museum and Education Center Honoring Shared Legacy of Dr. Margaret Burroughs on Her Birthday!
SSCAC’s temporary move comes at the heels of its $18-million renovation and expansion project and represents a meaningful chapter in SSCAC’s 85-year history as a steward of Black art and culture. The capital project includes preservation of its landmark 1892 building at 3831 South Michigan Avenue and construction of a new 10,000 square-foot addition. The expanded facility will deepen SSCAC’s capacity to serve artists, students, and the broader public through exhibitions, residencies, education, and cultural programs.
Black Leadership Arts Collective To Host Recital And Gala At The Lyric Opera Of Chicago
An organization that supports Black classical musicians is partnering with the Lyric Opera of Chicago to present a recital and gala. Echoes of Excellence: Celebrating the Legacy of Chicago’s Black Voices will take place at 7:30 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 8ths, at the Lyric Opera of Chicago, located at 20 N. Wacker Drive.
Organization Provides Support For Addiction And Recovery
Dora Wright and her husband started the Chicago Recovering Communities Coalition in 2012 out of the need for addiction support services on the West side of Chicago. Their goal was to put a face to recovery with a vision to help people with active addictions. Wright herself has been in recovery for 38 years. Growing up on the West side, she said she left her community in search of addiction support and recovery programs because she wasn’t aware of any that existed in the community.
Illinois State Treasurer’s Office Talks About Retirement Savings
October is recognized as National Retirement Security Month and October 19th-25th is National Retirement Security Week, both highlight the importance of helping people across the United States to prepare for retirement. Locally, the Illinois State Treasurer’s Office is offering Illinois Secure Choice as a way for eligible residents to save for their retirement.
Far South CDC Seeking Community Input For South Halsted Corridor Plan
The Far South Community Development Corporation (CDC) is developing the South Halsted Corridor Plan with the goal to guide economic development, transportation and housing on South Halsted, between 95th Street and 123rd Street. A community workshop will take place from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Saturday, Nov. 15th, at Far South Community Development Corporation, located at 835 W. 115th St.
Strugglebeard Bakery Aims To Make People Smile
Quinton McNair creates baked goods that bring people joy with Strugglebeard Bakery. He said there is a feeling that comes with creating things people enjoy he made with his bare hands that is therapeutic.
Turning Passion into Profit
Retirement is supposed to be the season when we finally slow down—but for many of us, it’s the season when we finally wake up. After decades of working for others, raising families, and serving our communities, we reach a point where we ask, “Now what?” The answer, my friends, may lie in turning your passion into profit.
Tuesday, October 28
Donna Miller Files Petitions for 2nd Congressional District Seat
"It feels great!" That is the response Donna Miller expressed after filing petitions for her congressional bid in Springfield. The Cook County Commissioner is running for the 2nd Congressional District seat being vacated by U.S. Rep. Robin Kelly, who is seeking to represent Illinois in the U.S. Senate.
COOK COUNTY COMMISSIONER DR. KISHA McCASKILL PRIMED, ENERGIZED, AND PREPARED FOR STRETCH RUN FOR ELECTION
Cook County Commissioner of the 5th District- has coalesced a well-rounded support base of residents, elected officials, Clergy leaders, and business leaders as she is primed, energized, and prepared for the stretch run of her election to a full four-year term of office. This morning Commissioner McCaskill submitted nearly 1700 signatures as she officially filed her candidacy for election to a full four-year term of office.
WOMEN FOR JULIANA HOST MOMS FIRESIDE CHAT WITH CONTENT CREATOR JENNY LEFLORE
Last night, Women for Juliana hosted their first event, a fireside chat moderated by mom and content creator Jenny LeFlore. Dozens of attendees gathered at Little Black Pearl in Chicago’s Kenwood neighborhood for the conversation.
ROBIN KELLY PROGRESSING IN THE RACE FOR FOR U.S. SENATE
This past April, Senator Dick Durbin announced he would not be running for another term in the upcoming 2026 election, retiring after serving Illinois for more than 40 years in Washington. Durbin’s announcement kicked off a spirited campaign that has drawn three main contenders: U.S. Representatives Robin Kelly and Raja Krishnamoorthi and Lt. Governor Juliana Stratton.
Monday, October 27
Changing the Culture of Violence Through the 14th Annual Month of Non-Violence, Families, and Understanding Artificial Intelligence
Americans labor under the threat of gun violence, domestic abuse, school shootings, attacks on churches, mosques, and synagogues, domestic terrorism, and the growing threat of Artificial Intelligence that can influence elections and eliminate jobs.
LYNWOOD MAYOR JADA D. CURRY ALREADY EXCELING IN HISTORIC DUAL ROLES AS REGIONAL SOUTHLAND LEADER
Jada D. Curry- Mayor of Lynwood, Illinois- has now officially been selected as President of the South Suburban Mayors and Managers Association as well as the Southland Regional Mayoral Black Caucus. With both appointments, Mayor Curry is now the first African American female to lead both groups simultaneously.
Friday, October 24
Assessor Kaegi and Community Leaders Call for General Assembly to Pass Senior Property Tax Relief
Cook County Assessor Fritz Kaegi, joined Thursday morning by representatives from more than a dozen social service agencies and community organizations, called for the Illinois General Assembly to bring property tax relief to low-income senior homeowners in Cook County during this fall’s veto session.
Thursday, October 23
COUPLE BRINGS WINE BAR EXPERIENCE TO PARK MANOR 75
Charlette Stanton always wanted to have a bar and be an independent bar owner, but she wasn’t quite sure what it might look like. She and her husband Jacare Thomas wanted to build something where they could spend their time together and have a bar that would benefit the neighborhood. They came up with the idea for the Park Manor 75, located at 600 E. 75th St.
Solving Chicago’s Bus Driver Shortage for Special Needs Students
It is no secret that differently abled students face several challenges to accessing education, from finding learning methods suited to their needs to ensuring safety in the classroom. But what is often overlooked are the hurdles special needs students experience simply getting to and from school. Unlike a typical bus route, special needs students require personalized transportation provided by highly trained drivers and aides who pick them up and drop them off at their front door. But the combination of the nationwide school bus driver shortage – which is being felt acutely here in Chicago and Northern Illinois – and the continued increase in students with special needs has made providing this specialized form of transportation even more challenging.
REP. RITA URGES GENERAL ASSEMBLY TO PASS MEASURE TO ASSIST COOK COUNTY HOMEOWNERS
State Rep. Robert “Bob” Rita today urged legislators to pass House Bill 1812 to help Cook County Homeowners appeal their property tax assessments and reduce their tax burdens.
Wednesday, October 22
Special Report: Lesser-Known Lobular Breast Cancer on the Rise in U.S. Women American Cancer
The American Cancer Society released Lobular Breast Cancer Statistics, 2025, a report on occurrence and outcomes in the United States for this subtype of breast cancer. Findings show an estimated 33,600 women will be diagnosed with lobular breast cancer or invasive lobular carcinoma (ILC) this year. Ranked separately, the disease would be the seventh most common cancer among women in the U.S. The report also finds that incidence rates for ILC have increased more steeply (2.8% per year) than all other breast cancers combined (0.8% per year) from 2012 to 2021. The report is to be published in the journal Cancer, an international, interdisciplinary journal of the American Cancer Society.
Chicago Public Schools (CPS) Commemorates National Principals Month
Chicago Public Schools (CPS) will recognize National Principals Month throughout October with a series of events aimed at honoring and highlighting the dedication, expertise, and accomplishments of the District’s more than 600 principals.
IDNR awards historic sites field trip grants to Illinois schools
More than 740 students will visit Illinois state historic sites this school year thanks to grant funding through the Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) State Historic Sites Field Trip Grant program.
State of Illinois Earns Aetna Workplace Well-being Platinum Award for Fourth Consecutive Year
The Illinois Department of Central Management Services (CMS) is proud to announce it has received the 2025 Aetna Workplace Well-being Platinum Award, the highest level of recognition offered by Aetna. This marks the fourth year in a row that CMS has earned the prestigious award for its continued efforts in building a culture of health and well-being for State of Illinois employees.
YWCA USA Awarded $10M by Lilly Endowment Inc. to Advance Youth Character Development Nationwide
YWCA USA is proud to announce it has received a $10 million grant from Lilly Endowment Inc. to advance youth character development and leadership across its national network. This five-year investment will support Character Development Through Youth Programs (CDTYP), a national initiative designed to center youth voices in the design and delivery of programming.
Illinois Leads Midwest in Clean Energy Jobs Creation, Now Home to 132K Clean Jobs
Clean energy jobs powered job growth in Illinois last year, adding more than 3,200 jobs and outpacing the rest of state employment growth, according to the ninth annual Clean Jobs Midwest report released today by the national, nonpartisan business group E2, Evergreen Climate Innovations, and the Illinois Clean Jobs Coalition. More than one out of every 10 jobs added in Illinois in 2024 — and more than half of all energy-related jobs — was in clean energy.
Department on Aging Offers Free Help to Make Medicare Open Enrollment Decisions
The Illinois Department on Aging (IDoA) is encouraging everyone with Medicare to check if their plan still meets their needs and budget during this year’s Open Enrollment Period, which began on Oct. 15 and runs through Dec. 7, 2025. Individuals can get free help comparing health and drug plan options by contacting the state’s Senior Health Insurance Program (SHIP).
MAYOR BRANDON JOHNSON ANNOUNCES THE RETURN OF “CHICAGO FALL FEST”
Mayor Brandon Johnson has announced the return of Chicago Fall Fest, a coordinated two-week-long series of cultural and community fall events designed to engage Chicago’s youth and residents of all ages. This year’s effort, which will showcase events through November 2, will provide Chicagoans with events celebrating Halloween, Día de los Muertos, Diwali, and more. Chicago residents of all ages are invited to access additional information on ChicagoFallFest.org.
3Arts announces recipients of 2025 3Arts Awards
3Arts, the Chicago-based nonprofit grantmaking organization, announces the 17 recipients of this year’s 3Arts Awards: dance artists Wendy Clinard, Chih-Jou Cheng (程之柔), and Torrence “Tea Buggz” Griffin; musicians Tommy Carroll, Ariella Granados,Kara Jackson, and Maxwell Senteney; teaching artists ebere agwuncha, Victoria Boateng, and Tom Lee; theater artists Rammel Chan, Nina Castillo-D’Angier, and Kristin Idaszak; and visual artists Jess Atieno, Leasho Johnson, Fern Logan, and Odette Stout. The organization will honor the new recipients on Monday, November 10 at 5:30pm at the Harris Theater for Music and Dance, 205 E Randolph Street. Tickets to the 2025 3Arts Awards Celebration include a welcome reception, awards program, and a jubilant after-party. Tickets cost $150-$300 and are available at 3arts.org/tickets. Funds raised during the event will be split between 3Arts and Chicago nonprofit Center for Native Futures.
Michelle Obama’s Girls Opportunity Alliance Celebrates International Day of the Girl
In celebration of International Day of the Girl, former First Lady and founder of The Obama Foundation’s Girls Opportunity Alliance, Michelle Obama, announced a new commitment to support organizations that educate and empower adolescent girls around the world.
Gov. Pritzker Establishes Governor’s Blue Ribbon Schools Program
Governor JB Pritzker joined the Illinois State Board of Education (ISBE) and school leaders, teachers, and students to launch the Illinois Governor’s Blue Ribbon Schools program and celebrate the 2025 award recipients at Glen Oaks Elementary in North Palos District 117. Twenty-eight schools from across Illinois received the 2025 designation for demonstrating exemplary academic performance.
Judy Ledgerwood Debuts Monumental Site-Specific Installation at Blue Line Racine Station
GRAY is pleased to announce the opening of JudyLedgerwood’s new permanent, site-specific installation at the CTA’s newly renovated Blue Line Racine Station. The Racine stop renovation is part of the Chicago Transit Authority (CTA)’s multi-year project to make the Blue Line Forest Park Branch fully accessible.
Zeta National Educational Foundation Marks 50 Years of Impact
The Zeta National Educational Foundation, Inc. (ZNEF) celebrated its 50th Anniversary Gala on September 4, with an evening of reflection, empowerment, and recognition at the National Museum of African American History and Culture. The event honored five decades of educational impact and featured Guest Host and Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Incorporated member Jericka Duncan, CBS News National Correspondent and CBS Weekend News anchor, along with a special performance by Grammy-nominated singer-songwriter Musiq Soulchild.
Big Brothers Big Sisters of America Announces National Partnership with Gillette to Engage More Men as Mentors
Big Brothers Big Sisters of America (BBBSA) and Gillette today announced a national partnership to bring more mentors into the lives of young men through the unifying power of sports.
L'Oréal Paris Celebrates its 20th Anniversary of Women of Worth, Honoring a New Class of Changemakers
L'Oréal Paris USA proudly celebrates the 20th anniversary of Women of Worth by announcing the ten honorees for the 2025 program. L'Oréal Paris recognizes these extraordinary women who embody leadership, service, and innovation, and are driving transformative change across the United States through their non-profit organizations. In recognition of this milestone, L'Oréal Paris spokespeople Eva Longoria, Helen Mirren, and Aja Naomi King are helping to amplify the missions of this year's honorees through exclusive content.
Downsizing Without the Drama
At some point, many of us look around and realize we’ve been blessed—and burdened—by a lifetime of stuff. I am at that point in my life. My closets are filled with clothes I haven’t worn in years, my basement and attic are stacked with boxes packed away decades ago, and don’t even mention the books once loved but now unread for years.
Is Your Business Ready for Unexpected Challenges?
In an unpredictable world, businesses must be prepared to face unexpected challenges, such as natural disasters or economic shifts. The ability to adapt quickly is crucial for maintaining resilience and ensuring long-term success. Senior Business Consultant Moises Figueroa Hernandez with JPMorganChase in Chicago, shares some immediate and long-term actions businesses can take to navigate disruptions:
ALDERMAN COLEMAN WELCOMES ENGLEWOOD’S FIRST 24 HOUR POST-COVID RESTAURANT AS PART OF THE MUCH ANTICIPATED 63RD STREET PROJECT
Stephanie Coleman- Alderman of the 16th Ward- recently was joined by officials from the City of Chicago, Chicago Transit Authority, Representatives from McDonald Restaurant, and Englewood residents in a McDonalds Ribbon Cutting and a City of Chicago announcement of a multi-million-dollar development of 63rd and Ashland in Chicago.
Wellness West Forum Calls for Unity in Fight for Health Equity
Healthcare and community leaders urge collaboration and vigilance to protect Chicago’s most vulnerable neighborhoods.
Inside Garfield Park Conservatory’s Horticulture Hall on Oct. 9, leaders of West Side health and social service community gathered for Wellness West’s fourth annual forum, “Reimagining Care: A Healthcare Transformation Blueprint.” The collective message was clear: Chicago’s West Side continues to bear a disproportionate burden of chronic disease and shortened life expectancy, and only durable, cross-sector collaboration, and a vigilant defense of the social safety net, will address this injustice.
Abstinence Expert Writes Book About Waiting Until Marriage
National Health Education runs through Oct. 24th. Writer Melanie L. Brown wants to use her book to inspire others. Brown, a virgin/abstinence expert, is the author of “My Life Without Sex: A 40-Year-Old Virgin Shares How to Set Boundaries to Wait for Sex.”
Local Filmmakers Nominated For Regional Emmy Awards
Patrick Wimp was set to graduate with a degree in Business and started dabbling in screenwriting. He fell in love with it and applied to DePaul University for graduate school. He graduated from DePaul in 2011 with a Master of Fine Arts.
Steppenwolf Theatre Members Reflect On 50 Years
K. Todd Freeman became an ensemble member at the Steppenwolf Theatre in 1993, after he was cast in the play, “The Song of Jacob Zulu.” Glenn Davis is the co-artistic director at the Steppenwolf Theatre. He said he was led to the Steppenwolf after telling his grandfather he wanted to be an actor. His grandfather told him if he was going to be an actor that Steppenwolf was the best place to be, even paying for him to take his first class there.
School District 227 Opens New Wing Of STEM Campus
Rich Township High School District 227 recently celebrated the opening of a new wing at the STEM Campus, located at 600 203rd Street, in Olympia Fields. The wing includes four pathways: Horticulture, Construction, Aviation, and Automotive Technology.
Nominations Open for the 2025 Alzheimer’s Caregiver Recognition Awards
Each year, Illinois Women Conquer ALZ (IWCA) honors the everyday heroes who provide exceptional care and unwavering support to individuals living with Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias. These caregivers, whether family members, friends, or professionals, embody compassion, resilience, and dedication in the face of one of life’s greatest challenges.
Monday, October 20
Cook County Warns Public of Possible Measles Exposures in Palos
Cook County Department of Public Health (CCDPH) issued a notification this morning of possible measles exposures associated with an individual who visited Northwestern Medicine Palos Hospital in Palos Heights, Illinois, while contagious, on Oct. 13. The individual is an unvaccinated child who passed through the main hospital lobby and by Suite 1010 (Surgical and Procedural Services) on their way to outpatient testing.
Friday, October 17
HIGHLY POPULAR CHEF SEEN ON CHICAGO NETWORK NEWS TO OPEN ALL-NEW RESTAURANT IN CALUMET CITY, ILLINOIS
Thaddeus Jones- Mayor of Calumet City, Illinois- will be joined by Chicago comedian Damon Williams, Illinois State Senator Napoleon Harris, Cook County Clerk Monica Gordon, Cook County Commissioner Dr. Kisha McCaskill, the Calumet City Council and residents throughout Cook County as they collectively will officially welcome the much anticipated Bill’s Grill and Smokehouse to Southern Cook County. THE OFFICIAL RIBBON CUTTING CEREMONY WILL BEGIN AT 12:00 NOON, FRIDAY, OCTOBER 17, 2025.
CLERK MONICA GORDON EXPANDING VITAL RECORDS
Building on positive customer reviews, Clerk Monica Gordon is expanding a new appointment-based system for Vital Records services to better serve residents in the western and northern suburbs in a continuing effort to modernize the services of the Cook County Clerk’s Office.
Thursday, October 16
MARLON WAYANS IS COMING TO HARD ROCK LIVE ON MARCH 6
Comedian Marlon Wayans is coming to Hard Rock Casino Northern Indiana’s Hard Rock Live venue on Friday, March 6, 2026. Doors open at 7 p.m. General on sale begins this Friday, October 17, at 10 a.m. Central Time.
Wednesday, October 15
Retired Illinois Appellate Court Justice and Member of the Glen Ellyn Area Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. Shelvin Louise Marie Hall Dies
Judge Shelvin Louise Marie Hall, a distinguished jurist and civil rights advocate who championed equality, inclusion, and social justice throughout her career, died Oct. 8, 2025.
Kwanza Jones & José E. Feliciano Redefine Legacy Through Equity and Empowerment at NAIC Alts Forum
At the National Association of Investment Companies (NAIC) Amplifying Alts Forum, powerhouse investors and philanthropists Kwanza Jones and José E. Feliciano redefined what it means to build a legacy. In a fireside chat with Robert L. Greene, President & CEO of NAIC, the duo shifted the conversation from financial returns to long-term systems of access, opportunity, and impact.
16th Annual CPA Day of Service Draws Hundreds of Volunteers Across Illinois
For the 16th year in a row, hundreds of Illinois certified public accountants (CPAs) gave back to their local communities for the Illinois CPA Society’s (ICPAS) annual CPA Day of Service held on Sept. 19, with others still planning activities throughout the fall.
LISC ANNOUNCES OPENING OF APPLICATIONS FOR THE 2026 CHICAGO NEIGHBORHOOD DEVELOPMENT AWARDS
Local Initiatives Support Corporation (LISC) announced the opening of applications for the 2026 Chicago Neighborhood Development Awards (CNDAs) and The Richard Driehaus Foundation Award for Architectural Excellence in Community Design. Applications are being accepted through Wednesday, Nov. 19.
llinois Hunger Coalition to Close After 36 Years of Fighting Hunger
After more than three decades of service, the Illinois Hunger Coalition (IHC) announced that it will wind down operations and officially close its doors this fall. Founded in 1988, IHC has been a statewide leader in the fight against hunger and food insecurity, serving Illinois families through community organizing, advocacy, education, and direct assistance.
Mother-Daughter Duo Kandi and Riley Burruss Launch The Burruss Banter Podcast
Grammy winner and Emmy and Tony-nominated multi-hyphenate Kandi Burruss and her daughter Riley Burruss have announced their new mother-daughter podcast The Burruss Banter. In each episode, the ladies sit down and talk all things life and family with intergenerational guests.
Two-Time Oscar-Winning Costume Designer Ruth E. Carter Unveils Apparel Creation STU/DEO by adidas at PLC Detroit
In a game-changing collaboration, two-time Oscar-winning costume designer Ruth E. Carter recently partnered with PLC Detroit, the only design-focused HBCU, to unveil the Apparel Creation STU/DEO by adidas at the sixth annual National Black Footwear Forum (BFF) in partnership with the Footwear Distributors and Retailers of America(FDRA). This exciting event celebrated artistry, culture, and the empowerment of the next generation of designers.
Chicago Repertory Ballet announces cast for World Premiere of The Capulets
Chicago Repertory Ballet is proud to announce the casting for the world premiere of its original ballet, The Capulets. Set in the fictional universe of Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet, The Capulets focuses on the fraught relationships and power dynamics of the Capulet family, reimagining the timeless story from Lady Capulet’s perspective. The casting for the production features Miriam-Rose LeDuc as Lady Capulet; Jackson Liee as Tybalt; Rosario Guillen as Lord Capulet; Nathaniel Urie as Mercutio; Skyler Newcom as Lord Paris; P.J. Spagnoletti as Romeo; Rachel Schmnidt as Roseline/Juliet; Molly Gemerchak as Benvolio; Haley Baker as Lucetta/Lady Capulet; Tessa Castellano as Juliet/Roseline; Sarah Price as Anna; Phillip Ollenberg as Prince Escalus; and Jessica Larbig as Lucetta. The world premiere of The Capulets takes place two weekends only, November 7-16, at Ruth Page Center for the Arts, 1016 N. Dearborn St. Tickets are available at www.crbdance.com or by calling 872-588-0430.
Chicago Voted Best Big City in the U.S. by Readers of Condé Nast Traveler for Ninth Consecutive Year
Chicago has once again been crowned the Best Big City in the U.S. in the Condé Nast Traveler Readers’ Choice Awards, one of the most prestigious recognitions a destination can receive. This is the ninth consecutive year Chicago has claimed this title, a streak unprecedented in the awards program’s more than 30-year history. Over 750,000 votes were cast for this year’s Condé Nast Traveler Readers’ Choice Awards.
Disney’s The Lion King Begins Limited Three-Week Engagement
Broadway In Chicago is thrilled to announce that the highly anticipated return engagement of Disney’s THE LION KING is now playing a three-week limited engagement at the Cadillac Palace Theatre (151 W. Randolph St.) through October 19. Ticket prices range from $45 - $180, with a limited number of Extra Magic Package seats available, which include an excellent seat in the theater and show merchandise. Additional fees apply for online purchases. Tickets can be purchased at BroadwayInChicago.com or in-person at any Broadway In Chicago venue box office. Reservations for groups of ten (10) or more are available by emailing GroupSales@BroadwayInChicago.com or calling 312-977-1710.
Security Traders Association of Chicago to Host 2025 Texas Hold ‘Em Tournament
The Security Traders Association of Chicago (STAC), a membership organization for professionals in the securities industry and an affiliate of The Security Traders Association (STA), will host its annual STAC Texas Hold ‘Em Tournament on Thursday, October 23, 2025, at Gibsons Bar & Steakhouse.
SPIKE LEE TO BE HONORED AT 61st CHICAGO INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL
Iconic director Spike Lee is set to be feted at the 61st Chicago International Film Festival, North America’s longest-running competitive film festival, it was announced today. Lee will receive the Festival’s Lifetime Achievement Award, recognizing an auspicious, bold, and visionary collection of films that have helped define and expand on what American cinema is, and can be, at “An Evening With Spike Lee” on Friday, October 24. The Festival will present Lee’s latest masterwork, HIGHEST 2 LOWEST, at a screening earlier that day. Tickets are on sale at www.chicagofilmfestival.com.
UChicago Medicine Ingalls locations offering free mental health screenings in October for National Depression and Health Screening Month
The free screenings aim to raise awareness for depression and anxiety and to help remove stigma and barriers to access that community members struggling with mental health face.
GLENWOOD APPROVES PROGRAM TO ATTRACT NEW INVESTMENT
The Village of Glenwood has introduced a new economic development tool aimed at eliminating blight, while also making it easier for developers to invest in the community.
Olive-Harvey College Partners with Cook County Department of Corrections in the creation of an on-site forklift certification program
Olive-Harvey College (OHC) is proud to announce a groundbreaking new partnership with the Cook County Department of Corrections (CCDOC) that is offering on-site forklift certification training to individuals in custody. This program, championed by Olive-Harvey College President Kimberly Hollingsworth and her team, is designed to provide an industry-recognized credential that remains valid for three years—equipping participants with tangible skills that support workforce reentry and economic mobility upon release.
Illinois Celebrates National Women’s Business Month
The Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO) is celebrating National Women's Business Month throughout October by recognizing the significant contributions of women-owned businesses across the state. There are nearly 561,000 women-owned businesses in Illinois employing more than 661,000 workers and bringing in $165 billion in revenue each year. During this monthlong celebration, DCEO will be elevating resources and events to help bolster Illinois’ women-owned businesses and aspiring female entrepreneurs.
Governor Pritzker Announces NANO Nuclear to Establish Operations in Illinois
Governor JB Pritzker, the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO) and NANO Nuclear Energy Inc. (NASDAQ: NNE) (“NANO Nuclear” or “the Company”), a leading advanced nuclear energy and technology company focused on developing clean energy solutions, will establish a manufacturing and research & development facility in Illinois. NANO Nuclear plans to make an investment of more than $12 million with the support from the Reimagining Energy and Vehicles in Illinois (REV Illinois) program, which will enable the company to establish its operations and create 50 new full-time jobs.
MAYOR BRANDON JOHNSON ANNOUNCES REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS FOR NEIGHBORHOOD RETAIL ACTIVATION PROGRAM
Mayor Brandon Johnson and the Chicago Department of Business Affairs and Consumer Protection (BACP) announced four Requests for Proposals (RFPs) for the Neighborhood Retail Activation Program. These initiatives seek out partnerships with local community and economic development organizations to assist businesses impacted by the 2023 and 2024 summer storms and bring new vitality to vacant storefronts along commercial corridors in Austin, Belmont Cragin and West Garfield Park.
The Black Women's Agenda's 48th Annual Symposium & Awards Luncheon Sells Out in Minutes, Honors Trailblazers, and Inspires
The Black Women's Agenda, Inc. (BWA) once again drew a sold-out crowd to its 48th Annual Symposium Town Hall and Awards Luncheon, held September 27 at the Marriott Marquis in Washington, D.C., during the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation's Annual Legislative Conference. Tickets sold out within minutes, underscoring the event's reputation as a must-attend gathering of leaders, advocates, and influencers from across the country.
Talk Show Promotes Positivity And Features Creatives Living In Their Purpose
Jewel Ifeguni has always been a creative and a hustler. Ifeguni was a product manager and producer in the video game industry. At the same time, she was balancing that work with filmmaking. Her positivity while juggling multiple projects led to her motto “Every Day is a Yay!,” which is also the title of her talk show. Ifeguni likes to say that while every day is not easy, everyday people have the ability to live in their purpose.
Actress Plays Ambitious Role in ‘The Book of Mormon’
Charity Arianna has been singing for as long as she can remember. Singing helped her get through the days. Her love of singing and music led her to theatre. Doing plays and musicals in schools helped her decide that she wanted a career in the theatre. She said her favorite thing about the theatre is that you can walk into one and it completely changes a person’s point of view.
ILBCF Policy Summit Lays Groundwork For Legislation
The Illinois Legislative Black Caucus Foundation (ILBCF) recently held its Annual Policy Summit and Power Brunch. With the theme of the event being, “Where Policy & Power Unite; Relentlessly,” elected officials and other community stakeholders gathered to engage in discussion about policy issues that affect the Black community -- healthcare, economics, criminal justice, social justice, crime, gender equality, and voter suppression.
HelloBaby Identifies Site For A Second Location
Debbie Frisch founded HelloBaby after being a short-term foster care provider and seeing how necessary certain resources were when it came to raising children. She decided to create a space where parents, guardians and caregivers could receive necessary resources and children would have a place to play, which Frisch said is at the foundation of learning.
C3 Impact Fund Seeks To Spur Growth In Underserved Communities Through Real estate
Across the country, community development financial institutions (CDFI) are providing financial opportunities to businesses and individuals in underserved communities. Locally, the C3 Impact Fund is working to empower underserved neighborhoods through real estate.
Exciting Breakthroughs in Alzheimer’s Research Offer New Hope for Patients
There is growing optimism in the fight against Alzheimer’s disease, as new research and treatments are reshaping the outlook for millions of Americans living with the condition. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved several medications that not only ease symptoms but also slow the progression of Alzheimer’s — marking a turning point in dementia care.
It’s That Time Again: Reviewing Your Medicare Plan Before It’s Too Late
Would you renew your car insurance without checking if your rate went up or your coverage changed? Probably not. Yet every fall, millions of Medicare beneficiaries do exactly that — automatically renewing their current plan without reviewing what’s new for the year ahead.
Wednesday, October 8
Giannoulias Opens New Orland Park DMV Location
Illinois Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias unveiled the new Orland Park DMV facility, which will continue to offer critical services to the surrounding community. The new location will offer extended hours in addition to expanded services, including road exams.
Illinois Electric Vehicle Rebate Program Application Cycle to Open October 28
Illinois Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Acting Director James Jennings announced the dates for the next EV Rebate Program application cycle, as well as updates to the program that reflect legislation passed by the Illinois General Assembly in 2025. Program requirements are included on the Illinois EPA’s EV Rebate Program webpage. The next application cycle for the EV Rebate Program will open Tuesday, October 28, 2025, and run through Saturday, January 31, 2026.
Hope Chicago Extends Groundbreaking Scholarship Program to 700 More South and West Side Families
Hope Chicago, the two-generation economic mobility initiative supporting more than 2,600 Hope Scholars and Hope Parent Scholars through postsecondary education since 2022, announced the expansion of its program to Class of 2026 students and their parents at its five partner Chicago public high schools. The addition of a new cohort marks the next step in Hope Chicago’s mission to eliminate barriers to educational and economic opportunities for Chicago families and builds on the organization’s successful early results from its first four cohorts.
Cook County Clerk Monica Gordon Advocates for Federal Support of Election Infrastructure in Washington, D.C.
Cook County Clerk Monica Gordon traveled to the nation’s Capital with fellow clerks from Illinois and across the nation to meet with U.S. Congressional leaders to make a unified appeal for increased federal funding for local Election Infrastructure.
Illinois Housing Development Authority Awards $2 Million to Habitat for Humanity to Expand Homeownership Opportunities
The Illinois Housing Development Authority (IHDA) allocated $2 million to Habitat for Humanity of Illinois (HFHIL) to administer a new round of the Community Impact Fund, a program that helps working families, especially in Central and Southern Illinois, buy a home. The program is expected to create 100 new homeowners across Illinois.
Mayor Brandon Johnson joined City Colleges of Chicago (CCC), the Greater Chicago Food Depository, and Governor JB Pritzker for the launch of “Food Security for Life,” a groundbreaking, multi-layered
Mayor Brandon Johnson joined City Colleges of Chicago (CCC), the Greater Chicago Food Depository, and Governor JB Pritzker for the launch of “Food Security for Life,” a groundbreaking, multi-layered initiative that works to ensure every student at City Colleges has sufficient food while they focus on their education at City Colleges, one that leads them to a sustainable wage and good career that offers food security for life.
Illinois announces participation in federal Cell & Gene Therapy Access Model for Sickle Cell Disease treatment
Illinois has been selected to participate in a federal model that will increase access to potentially transformative treatments for people living with rare and severe diseases, advancing the work already underway in the state’s Medicaid program. The Illinois Department of Healthcare and Family Services (HFS) was accepted into the federal Cell and Gene Therapy (CGT) Access Model, a multi-year agreement among states and drug manufacturers to increase Medicaid beneficiaries’ access to treatments. Illinois is expected to be awarded up to $9.55 million in federal dollars over the course of 10.5 years to support Illinois’ implementation of the model, including screenings, referrals and wraparound support services, with the ultimate goal of directly resolving documented barriers to care. 84% of the total model administrative operating costs are federally funded, and the remaining 16% of costs will be funded by the state – up to approximately $1.8 million.
The Morton Arboretum Launches 2025 Weekly Fall Color Report to Guide Visitors Through Leaf-Peeping Season
The Morton Arboretum has launched its weekly Fall Color Report for 2025 to help visitors track the changing colors throughout the season and make the most of their fall visits. Updated every Wednesday through the season on the Arboretum's website, the report provides real-time information about which species are changing, where to find the best colors and what to expect in the coming weeks.
Gov. Pritzker Welcomes 533 New Homeowners Through Groundbreaking SmartBuy Program
Governor JB Pritzker and the Illinois Housing Development Authority (IHDA) announced the success of the most recent round of SmartBuy, a first-of-its-kind initiative that helped 533 Illinoisans eliminate $16 million in student loan debt while achieving the dream of homeownership in only 12 weeks. Through SmartBuy, homeowners were able to purchase a home eight years earlier than traditional IHDA borrowers.
National Museum of African American History and Culture Celebrates 9th Anniversary
The Smithsonian’s National Museum of African American History and Culture (NMAAHC) celebrated its ninth anniversary Sept. 24. Since opening in 2016, the museum has welcomed almost 13 million visitors from all 50 U.S. states and nearly 200 countries. In recognition of this milestone, and in anticipation of a historic year ahead, the museum will host a special block party in September 2026 to commemorate both the 250th anniversary of the United States and the museum’s 10th anniversary. The yearlong celebration will feature new exhibitions, groundbreaking publications and expanded educational programming. The public can learn more and sign up for e-mail updates about upcoming celebrations on the [nmaahc.si.edu/10Years]museum’s website, nmaahc.si.edu/10Years.
Cadence Bank Strengthens Commitment to Recruiting Top Talent Through Sponsorship of SIAC Conference
Cadence Bank (NYSE: CADE) has announced its sponsorship of the Southern Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (SIAC), underscoring its commitment to building strong relationships with Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) and creating meaningful connections within the communities it serves. Cadence was named the official banking partner of the SIAC with the execution of the conference's newest partnership agreement. The sponsorship began in July 2025 and will continue through June 2029.
EASTSIDE GOLF AND NIKE RELEASE "TAKE FLIGHT" FOOTWEAR COLLABORATION
Eastside Golf, the lifestyle brand redefining the intersection of golf, culture, and fashion, today revealed its second highly anticipated shoe collection in collaboration with NIKE, Inc.
LITERARY FORCE AND DISTINGUISHED EDUCATOR DR. DANIEL BLACK NAMED PVAMU 2025-2026 TONI MORRISON WRITER-IN-RESIDENCE
Prairie View A&M University is proud to announce that Dr. Daniel Black, distinguished author, professor, mentor, and leader in African American Studies, has been appointed as the 2025-2026 Toni Morrison Writer-in-Residence. This position, one of PVAMU's signature academic and creative appointments, underscores the institution's deep commitment to literary excellence, social conscience, and community engagement.
Transformational Leader Joy D. Calloway Named President & CEO of the Black Women's Health Imperative
The Black Women's Health Imperative (BWHI) is proud to announce Joy D. Calloway, MHSA, MBA, as its new President and Chief Executive Officer, effective October 6, 2025. A seasoned nonprofit executive and values-based strategist, Calloway brings nearly three decades of leadership in advancing equity-focused organizations and driving meaningful change across health systems and communities.
Actress and Television Host Sherri Shepherd Announces First Children’s Book
On the heels of the Season 4 premiere of her hit nationally syndicated daytime talk show, SHERRI, award-winning actress, television host, comedian, podcaster, and New York Times Bestselling author Sherri Shepherd has announced her latest venture, authoring her first children’s book The Sunshine Queens (ISBN: 9781400252732), which was released October 7. Shepherd first announced the book live on Sherri.
One Size Does Not Fit All in Medicare
If you are reading this article, you probably live in Illinois. If so, I hope that the following information will help those enrolling or re-enrolling in Medicare to make an informed decision on the plan that best fits their healthcare needs.
Girls Like Me Celebrates Chicago Day of the Girl
As the founder of an organization centered around girls, LaKeisha Gray Sewell is always looking for ways to uplift girls and bring awareness to issues that affect them. When she heard about the United Nations’ International Day of the Girl Child, she saw an opportunity to bring awareness to the issues that girls in Chicago face and decided to host Chicago Day of the Girl each year around October 11th.
Matteson Mayor Begins Term As President Of The Illinois Municipal League
The Village of Matteson Mayor Sheila Chalmers-Currin was passed the gavel as the President of the Illinois Municipal League. She was unanimously voted to serve as President.
Pigment International Showcases The Work Of Black Artists At Art Faire
D. Lamar Preston began as a child sculpting using play doh. As he grew older, his path veered into graphic design, but he ultimately returned to sculpting, this time using metal. A chance meeting with sculptor Richard Hunt and opportunities to be in community with other artists led him to create work that can be seen in front of Hyde Park Career Academy High School.
Photographer Sheds Light On Underrepresented Communities
Malik Zambezi has made a name for himself on social media. Going by the handle MalikShotYou, he takes photos of people and places in Chicago, with the goal of showing the parts of Chicago that aren’t often represented.
Awards Event Recognizes People Who Give Back To The Community
The Village Legal and Community Project recently hosted its annual fundraising gala. During the event, three local individuals were recognized for the positive impact they’ve made on the community. Chrishon Lampley, Founder and CEO of Love Cork Screw, was honored with the B.O.S.S. Award; Jasir Bailey, Owner of Stock Boy Chicago, was honored with the Baby B.O.S.S. Award; and Channyn Lynn Parker, CEO of Brave Space Alliance, was honored with the Village Award.
Monday, October 6
U.S. CONGRESSMAN RAJA KRISHNAMMOORTHI RECEIVES HUGE ENDORSEMENT FROM PASTOR JOHN HARRELL
John Harrell- CEO of Black Men United – was joined by westside community civic and clergy leaders in a unified embrace and engagement of U.S Congressman Raja Krishnammoorthi. Pastor Harrell, who is also a candidate for Illinois State Representative of the 8th District, openly endorsed Congressman Raja. In return, Congressman Raja endorsed Harrell’s campaign. The event took place on Monday, October 6, 2025 at the Pleasant Ridge Baptist Church located at 116 S. Central in Chicago
Thursday, October 2
COOK COUNTY COMMISSIONER BILL LOWRY HOSTS CHICAGO’S LARGEST MEN’S & FAMILIES’ HEALTH FAIR IN PARTNERSHIP WITH “COOK COUNTY HEALTH”
COMMUNITY HEALTH ADVOCATES HELP RESPOND TO ALARMING PROSTATE CANCER, HYPERTENSION, AND WELLNESS ISSUES IMPACTING BLACK MEN’S HEALTH Cook County Commissioner Bill Lowry, 3rd District and Chairman of the Cook County Health and Hospitals Committee, proudly partnered with Cook County Health to host one of Chicago’s largest Men’s and Families’ Health Fairs, drawing hundreds of participants for an afternoon dedicated to wellness, education, and prevention. The impactful event was held at New Life Covenant Southeast Church on Thursday, September 25th, from 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM. The notable fair featured an array of free health screenings, educational resources, and interactive activities tailored to address the most pressing health disparities impacting Black men and their families.
“EVERYTHING MUST BE DISCUSSED-FROM DEI, THREATS AGAINST BLACK CULTURE AND HEALTHCARE”
Where Policy & Power Unite; Relentlessly”
Illinois Legislative Black Caucus Joint Chairwoman, Illinois State Senator Lakesia Collins (5th District) will be joined by Illinois House Speaker Chris Welch, ILBCF Executive Director Tiffany Hightower, ILBC Members, Countywide elected officials, Civic Leaders, Clergy Leaders, and various other key stakeholders of the African American communities throughout Illinois and the United States in a 9:30 AM Kick off press conference to the start of an impactful two-day Policy Summit.
Wednesday, October 1
Cook County Confirms Another Measles Case
Cook County Department of Public Health (CCDPH) has confirmed the third suburban Cook County measles case this year. The case was identified in a suburban Cook County adult whose vaccination status is unknown. Public health officials believe the case was acquired from exposure to the last reported measles case announced on 9/16/2025. CCDPH is working to identify and notify people who may have been exposed to this new case.
Giannoulias Awards Over $28 Million in Library and Literacy Grants
Illinois Secretary of State and State Librarian Alexi Giannoulias awarded $28.3 million for library services and literacy programs throughout the state.
Destiny Outreach Celebrates Apprentices With A Showcase
Destiny Outreach recently celebrated the graduation of its first cohort of the DO! Entertainment Industry Apprenticeship Program (EIAP).
Landmarks Illinois awards $43,000 in grant funding to preservation efforts across Illinois
Landmarks Illinois has awarded $43,000 in grant funding to 10 preservation projects across the state through three grant programs: the Preservation Heritage Fund, Barbara C. and Thomas E. Donnelley II Preservation Fund for Illinois and the Timuel D. Black, Jr. Grant Fund for Chicago’s South Side.
NATIONAL ROAD SAFETY FOUNDATION AND CHICAGO AUTO SHOW INVITE TEENS TO CREATE SCRIPT FOR TV PUBLIC SERVICE MESSAGE ABOUT DANGERS OF SPEEDING
Teens from Chicagoland and throughout Illinois, Indiana, Wisconsin and Iowa are invited to help promote safe driving by creating a message about the dangers of speeding.
New PBS documentary highlights enduring legacy and evolving future of HBCUs
A new documentary, Opportunity, Access & Uplift: The Evolving Legacy of HBCUs, hosted by journalist Brandis Griffith Friedman, is now airing nationwide on more than 300 PBS member stations and online throughout the country. This documentary is funded by Lumina Foundation.
Richard J. Daley College to Offer Aquatics Classes Through its Continuing Education Department
Richard J. Daley College is pleased to announce that Chicagoans can dive into the fun with its Aquatic program, that will be opening to the public through its Office of Continuing Education starting on Tuesday, Oct. 14, so register today!
Gov. Pritzker Issues Executive Order to Protect Life-Saving Immunization Access for Illinoisans
Governor JB Pritzker signed Executive Order 2025-04 launching a statewide effort to protect vaccine access during the fall respiratory virus season.
Cook County Commissioner Donna Miller Convenes Third Hearing to Examine Maternal Morbidity and Mortality Rates in Cook County
Cook County Commissioner Donna Miller convened a hearing of the Cook County Board’s Health and Hospitals Committee to hear from stakeholders about ways Illinois can better protect women during and after pregnancy and childbirth. In June 2023, Commissioner Miller held the first hearing on the topic after reports showed that in 2020, Illinois had a maternal mortality rate of 23 deaths per 100,000 live births, and for Black women, that rate was six times higher — surpassing the national average. Although the Illinois Department of Public Health noted an improvement in 2024, with Black women being three times more likely to die from pregnancy-related conditions than white women, the disparity remains alarming.
2023 Data Shows Life Expectancy Nearing Pre-Pandemic Levels, CDPH Reports
New data from the Chicago Department of Public Health (CDPH) highlights a third consecutive year of growth in life expectancy for Chicagoans, reaching 78.7 years in 2023. This marks an increase of 1.5 years since 2022, when life expectancy was 77.2 years. The latest data brings the city close to its pre-pandemic peak of 78.8 years in 2019, which was the highest life expectancy ever recorded in Chicago.
Poetry Foundation Announces 2025 Recipients of the 21st Annual Pegasus Awards
The Poetry Foundation is proud to announce the recipients of the 2025 Pegasus Awards, a suite of literary prizes established by the Foundation in 2004
The Protege Project Awarded $199,712 ICJIA Grant to Reduce Violence and Empower Chicago Youth
The Protege Project, a leading Chicago-based nonprofit focused on youth empowerment and violence prevention, has been awarded a $199,712 grant through the Illinois Criminal Justice Information Authority's Community-Based Violence Intervention and Prevention Program (CB-VIP).
CHICAGO URBAN LEAGUE TO HOST 64TH ANNUAL GOLDEN FELLOWSHIP DINNER
The Chicago Urban League announced that its 64th Annual Golden Fellowship Dinner (GFD) will feature a special performance by Grammy Award-winning artist Ledisi and will honor distinguished leaders George E. Johnson and Julieanna L. Richardson. The gala will be held Saturday, Nov. 8, in the Skyline Ballroom at McCormick Place.
Chicago Residents Rally as Men Wear Pink Ambassadors for the American Cancer Society
The Men Wear Pink of Greater Chicagoland has announced its ambassadors for 2025. 45 leaders from community will join together with the American Cancer Society to raise funds to support breast cancer research, patient programs, and direct services.
MAYOR BRANDON JOHNSON ANNOUNCES REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS FOR SOUTH LAWNDALE SMALL BUSINESS STOREFRONT ACTIVATION PROGRAM
Mayor Brandon Johnson and the Chicago Department of Business Affairs and Consumer Protection (BACP) announced a Request for Proposals (RFP) for the South Lawndale Small Business Storefront Activation Program. This program seeks to partner with a local community and economic development organization to bring new life to vacant storefronts and provide vital support to small businesses in the South Lawndale community, particularly along the 26th Street Commercial Corridor. For program details, visit Chicago.gov/BACPRecoveryPlan.
NEIU College of Business and Technology's bachelor's in Computer Science has been accredited by the Computing Accreditation Commission of ABET
Northeastern Illinois University's College of Business and Technology's bachelor's degree in Computer Science has been accredited by the Computing Accreditation Commission of the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology, a nonprofit, ISO 9001-certified quality assurance organization. Through the accreditation of academic programs, recognition of credentials and assessment of student learning, ABET supports excellence in education worldwide.
150 Advocates Rally at Capitol Demanding Governor Newsom Sign AB 7 Into Law
More than 150 community leaders, students, and grassroots advocates gathered on the West Steps of the California State Capitol, calling on state lawmakers to pass AB 7, the Legacy of Harm & Exclusion Consideration Act, and demanding that Governor Newsom sign it into law.
Spelman College wins 7th annual Moguls in the Making entrepreneurial pitch competition
Spelman College students took top honors in the seventh annual Moguls in the Making entrepreneurial pitch competition, where 50 students from Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) developed innovative and impactful solutions to address economic mobility challenges in Detroit. The winning team will be featured on "The Jennifer Hudson Show" on Sept. 25 to speak about their Moguls in the Making experience and winning idea.
Knight Foundation Announces Nearly $20 Million in New Investments to Fuel Detroit’s Economic Growth and Cultural Vitality
The John S. and James L. Knight Foundation announced $19.8 million in new investments to advance Detroit’s arts and tech economy, civic infrastructure and public spaces across the city at a community celebration on Sunday at Michigan Central. This new commitment builds on decades of partnership to support the city’s revitalization and expands Knight’s investments from downtown into the inner-ring neighborhoods. Over the last 25 years, Knight Foundation has made more than 750 grants to the people and organizations making a difference in Detroit. That’s more than $215 million, including over $80 million in just the last decade.
Speak Sell Shine Announces 2025 Cohort of Visionary Leaders, Authors and Speakers
The stage is set, the cameras are rolling, and the red carpet is ready. The iconic Howard Theatre and the National Press Club will once again host Speak Sell Shine, a transformative two-day experience designed to elevate entrepreneurs, authors, and speakers to national visibility. The event will be held October 6–7, 2025.
La Roche-Posay Partners With Law Roach in New Campaign To Celebrate 50th Anniversary
La Roche-Posay, the dermatologist-recommended skincare brand and leader in advanced sun protection, announces the debut of its Brand Name Campaign, a bold new initiative that transforms a viral moment into an authentic, equity-building movement. Inspired by the wave of positive sentiment and playful wordplay around the brand's name across the social universe, La Roche-Posay has harnessed humor, levity, and social-first storytelling to further its life-changing dermatology mission.
YSL BEAUTY CHAMPIONS THE NEXT GENERATION OF SCENT, SPORT AND STYLE: SHAI GILGEOUS-ALEXANDER AS A U.S. VOICE OF MYSLF ABSOLU
YSL Beauty celebrates three-time All-NBA First Team, and reigning NBA MVP and Finals MVP, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, as a U.S. Voice for the new iteration of MYSLF: MYSLF ABSOLU. An embodiment of modern, multi-dimensional athleticism-meets-iconicity, Shai is a dynamic and stylish force both on and off the court, where his skill and individual creativity join to create a radical expression.
Bridging the Parent-Teen Gap: SheKnows Launches How to Raise Adults Series
SheKnows announced the launch of How to Raise Adults, a new content series offering insights from teens on navigating the complex transition from adolescence to adulthood. Covering mental health, financial literacy, technology, relationships, and social trends, the series offers an authentic look into teen perspectives and the issues shaping the next generation. As part of the How to Raise Adults series, SheKnows is proud to partner with BetterHelp to spotlight accessible mental health resources that help teens build lifelong well-being.
Everyday Habits That Could Help Protect Your Brain Health and Prevent Cognitive Decline
Whether you're in your 30s or your 70s, it’s never too early—or too late—to start protecting your brain. Research continues to show that certain daily habits can reduce the risk of cognitive decline, Alzheimer’s disease, and other forms of dementia. The good news? These are changes anyone can start making today.
What You Don’t Know Can Hurt You
How many times have you heard the phrase, “What you don’t know can’t hurt you”? Well, that statement—like many others repeated in our Black culture—is simply not true. A similar phrase, “Ignorance is bliss”, is also misleading. In reality, what we don’t know can and often does hurt us. It has puzzled me for years why these sayings have been passed down through generations, especially in a culture that has more churches per capita than any other community. My Bible reminds me, “For lack of knowledge, my people perish.” How about yours?
Brownsville, Tennessee Unveils Statue Honoring Tina Turner in City Park Near the Star’s Former High School
Monumental, first of its kind tribute to the Queen of Rock ‘N’ Roll draws global fans and boosts local pride.
Already celebrated with a museum inside the Flagg Grove Schoolhouse she once attended, the late Tina Turner received yet another lasting tribute this weekend as the City of Brownsville unveiled a bronze statue of the global icon in the city’s Heritage Park (709 East Jefferson Street). Positioned to face Carver High School—where Turner was once a student—the statue stands as a powerful reminder of her roots and enduring influence.
ComEd Crew Leader Finds Career That Changes His Life
Mark Muhammad enrolled in the Overhead Electrical Line Worker program at Dawson Technical Institute. He was looking for employment and a career that would enable him to earn enough to take care of himself and start a family. He wanted a program that would train him and provide a path to hiring. When he saw the Overhead Electrical Line Worker program, it looked like the kind of program that would provide just the kind of opportunity that he was looking for. Muhammad recently graduated from the ComEd crew leader program and is now a Network High-Rise Crew Leader.
UChicago Medicine Community Benefit Report Touts Investments In Communities
The University of Chicago Medicine recently released its Community Benefit Report for fiscal year 2024. The report shows it invested $715 million in 2024 in an effort to reduce health disparities and strengthen community health. The effort not only includes the South side of Chicago, but also the South Suburbs and Northwest Indiana, through the University of Chicago Medical Center in Hyde Park and UChicago Medicine Ingalls Memorial in Harvey.
Queer Quest Self Discovery Event Is Set For Early October In Chicago
Dr. Jessica Esquivel, B. Sci PhD, and her wife Emily Esquivel, Ma, LCPC, have been thinking about hosting an event that would infuse community, creativity and collective liberation.
City Of Harvey Receives Much Needed Water Infrastructure Improvements
Recently, the city of Harvey, along with Cook County elected officials, announced the completion of an emergency water supply main project, located at 129th and Halsted. According to the Bureau of Asset management, replacing the water main ensures that the city of Harvey has reliable water service.
First all-Black high school polo team makes competition debut
The Atlanta BEST Academy Polo Team recently made its competition debut at the 8th Annual Atlanta Polo Party during the 2025 Soul Symphony Weekend. Caleb Choice-Sanchez, Syncere Poole, Declan Fitzpatrick, Ryland Hammond, Mikel Banks, and Quinn Ramsey led the Atlanta BEST Academy Polo Team to a 4-3 victory over the Starr Creek Polo Club from Cumming, Georgia.
Giannoulias Launches Self-Service Emissions Testing Kiosk at Chicago South DMV
Chicagoans now have a new city-based option for getting their vehicle’s emissions test completed. Following the success of the vehicle emissions Mobile Testing Unit pilot at the Chicago South DMV, Illinois Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias moved forward with installation of a permanent emissions testing self-service kiosk at the facility. This is in partnership with the Illinois Environmental Protection Agency (Illinois EPA).