March 29, 2023 Edition

Brandon Johnson is a husband, father, and former teacher who is running for Mayor because working families need a leader who’ll fight for them. Brandon can’t be bought by the insiders and special interests that run City Hall.

Brandon is the only candidate with a plan to make our streets safer and invest in Chicago’s neighborhoods, jobs, without raising property taxes.

“TOGETHER WE HAVE

POWER

BUILD A BETTER

AND VOTING IS THE FIRST STEP. ”

Chicago News Weekly

Cheryl Mainor Norman President

Ignorance Is Not Bliss

Terri Winston Vice

Darnell Pulphus

Art Director Editors

Danielle Sanders

Managing Editor

Dr. Mila K. Marshall

Cannabis Corner Editor

Staff Writers

Dr. Sharice Braford

Liz Lampkin

Marcus Bouldin

David Pierce

Tammy Gibson

Theresa Horton

Shaneen Murray

Marti Worell

Contributors

NNPA Newswire

Mare Evans

Eric Grant

Cover Photography

Mustafa Hussain for NBC News

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Vol. 1 No 24

Wednesday,

March 29, 2023

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We know that this moment in history is one of great wonder . . . what will the future hold? We know that only we can determine that based on our actions. I can’t say how often I have said in the last 5-years that ‘ignorance is not bliss.’ With so much at stake, we cannot afford to not think. We owe it to ourselves, to our future, and to our future generations to prepare and always be prepared for whatever fate we choose based on our actions. The worse thing we can do is ignore the signs as the signs reveal themselves daily. You must look to see.

The Chicago mayoral race has exposed and introduced so much about how people think, and what they do and don’t think about; specifically-- how easily people are manipulated and susceptible to the intended outcome by those who wish to deceive. Politicians do deceive. A politician defined means, “a person who is professionally involved in politics, especially as a holder of or a candidate for an elected office.” On the positive side is the statesman, “a skilled, experienced, and respected political leader or figure.”

We have often confused the two. Be clear that statesmen have become politicians and that’s not good. Unfortunately, too many politicians are drunk with power. Too many were statesmen who wanted to heal the ills of their cities, states, country, and the world. Then re-election came and it was all about getting the votes, counting the ‘Benjamins,’ and washing one politician’s hand as he greased theirs. It continues to grow like a big grease ball gathering impetus for the candidate’s personal sense of power. The power-driven candidate moves forward losing sight of promises made because it no longer is about the people, the ideals, or principles that the statesman once believed in and embraced. Instead, the thrust becomes about staying in office and feeling powerful. The wheel turns towards seeking to raise money for their seat, selling their original interest which is reduced to one’s personal stability and gain. The seduction of power is a dangerous enticement. It happens to the best of them.

We look around and we recognize the ‘Trump Virus.’ This ‘infectious agent’ that reeks of foul mistruths and blatant lies, name-calling, insults, thievery, the attempt to convince us that there are alternative truths, and total disrespect for others. These attempts are often shrouded in what sounds good, and yet the truth screams out at you, yet under the spell, you accept the lie because it’s easier to do the wrong thing than to do what is right. Most people never face the bully. In the movie, “The Accused, “ the Jodie Foster character was brutally raped by men publicly, as men and women stood by and watched, cheering the rapists on and then chose not to say anything.

They were complicit. Many thought it was cool having dismissed her, the victim, as deserving because ‘she asked for it.’ Others could not bear to face the perceived wrath that would follow if they told the authorities what really happened if they dared tell the truth. It was just easier to remain silent. We see this daily in the Republican party, affected by the ‘Trump Virus. Sadly, we witness the Democratic party affected as well. We have too many people wanting to be puppet masters. Too many politicians who want to play God. What is the antidote?

Listen, you should always question why a wealthy man wants to pursue a political office. ASK, ASK, ASK! He has two choices. To seek to be a statesman or join the bottom of the barrel of politicians who seek personal gain. I think that the last statesmen were the Kennedys who were of privilege and led by their philosophy and commitment to mankind. Their father wsacrificed sovereignty to mankind and sought power at great cost. His sons didn’t make the deal with the devil, their father did, and when the time came to pay, the sons held fast to their philosophical commitment. They were in a politician’s game-no place for high-minded thinkers, so they paid with their lives. Malcolm X, Medgar Evers, Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., and Muhammad Ali were visionaries and did the right thing. This choice is always in front of us.

Choosing wisely demands us to prepare, study, research, observe, listen, and question those who come in sheep’s clothing. Dr. King fought for our opportunity to be ‘thinking citizens’ who discern what is good and best for ourselves, our families, and our communities to be self-determined.

Do not succumb to emotional manipulation that politicians have mastered to appeal to your sensibilities. Ask the questions and seek answers that offer hope and advancement. It’s dangerous to be ignorant. Ignorance is not bliss.

The Habit of Saving Ain’t for Punks

Planning for and building wealth is actually quite simple. The process doesn’t require much more than addition and subtraction. That’s right, no multiplication, division, or algebra. The process does not require some sophisticated level of understanding of investment markets or tax law. You can almost plan for building wealth by counting on your fingers. The hard part is the establishment of or breaking habits, and habits can be a pesky thing.

At a basic level, the habit of saving is the root of wealth building, and you wouldn’t be alone if you played mind games with yourself in an attempt to

Hot Topic

establish savings. Have you sent funds from your paycheck to an account without a checkbook or debit card to keep yourself from dipping into that account? Have you ever decided to open an account in another city so that you can’t just run over to the bank or credit union and grab funds? What you are really doing is fighting your inability to have money sitting in savings without succumbing to the urge to dip into it. The habit of saving ain’t for punks. A pivotal breakthrough in your effort to build wealth is to establish a habit of savings and just let that money sit. I suggest that you give yourself full access to those funds via a debit card or whatev-

er, and just man (or woman) up. Think about the comfort that you will enjoy by just knowing that you have $10,000 or $20,000 just sitting without some pesky bill collector or expensive shoes waiting to gobble it up. Keep in mind, a rich person isn’t rich because they have expensive cars, big houses, or a bunch of stuff. A rich person is rich because they HAVE money…yes…HAVE money. You know that, but do you really, based on your saving and spending habits?

No matter how you slice it, the habit of saving is the root of building wealth starts with the habit of saving, and the only way to do this is to spend less than you earn, bank that surplus, and resist

CPD Announces New Rehire and Lateral Program for Sworn Officers

the urge to spend it. Set a savings goal, and a monthly financial meeting with yourself. Evaluate your savings performance since your last meeting and decide if you need to fire yourself based on your performance since your last meeting. Breaking the habit of dipping into designated savings and creating the habit of being comfortable with money sitting without spending is the beginning of building wealth.

Programs allow former CPD officers to rejoin the Department and sworn officers from outside law enforcement agencies to transfer in CNW Staff Report

The Chicago Police Department (CPD) announced new programs to rehire former Chicago Police Department officers and offer lateral hires for currently employed sworn officers from other law enforcement agencies. “These are great opportunities for sworn officers to join or re-join the Chicago Police Department,” said Interim Superintendent Eric M. Carter. “We recognized there was a need for these programs that we are excited to provide to qualified candidates who have a passion for service.” The rehire program will allow for sworn officers who have previously worked at CPD to come back under an expedited process. Those eligible for rehire must have not been gone from CPD for more than 36 months and must be under the age of 50. Any individuals who are rehired will be rehired at the rank of police officer,

regardless of their rank at the time of resignation. They will also be required to pass all pre-employment hiring steps and an individualized training plan through the Training and Support Group upon rehire.

The lateral hire program establishes a process for sworn officers from other law enforcement agencies to join CPD while receiving credit for their law enforcement experience. Those hired under the lateral program must be under the age of 40 at the time of hire. They will also be required to complete a 12-month probationary period and an individualized training plan, as well as pass all pre-employment hiring steps. These programs build on CPD’s robust hiring efforts, which have ramped up as law enforcement across the nation see an increase in retirements. CPD’s Recruitment and Retention Unit visits different areas of the

city and country to meet with a diverse groups of potential applicants. These visits include military bases, job fairs and dozens of colleges, including historically black colleges and universities. The recruitment team has also expanded entrance exam testing, with monthly in-person exams and an online exam.

CPD is an equal opportunity employer that values diversity and looks for candidates that reflect the city’s broad cross-sections. The Department is seeking effective problem-solvers, critical thinkers, and good communicators with the ability to interact with all members of the community and perform the role safely, effectively, and following local, state, and federal law as well as CPD policy and procedures.

City of Chicago Announces Community Growers Program

program

Mayor Lori E. Lightfoot and the Chicago Department of Business Affairs and Consumer Protection (BACP) and partner agency NeighborSpace announced the first round of applications for the City’s Community Growers Program are open until April 1, 2023. Through a competitive Request for Proposal process, BACP selected NeighborSpace to administer the program alongside a collective of partner organizations: Chicago Food Policy Action Committee (CFPAC), Community Food Navigator, DePaul Steans Center, Grow Greater Englewood, Advocates for Urban Agriculture, Urban Growers Collective, and Windy City Harvest. The first round of applications is open through April 1, 2023. Interested urban growers can start applying for assistance through the Community Growers Program at Chicago.gov/BACPRecoveryPlan.

“The COVID-19 pandemic exposed the fragility of our food system and the inequities embedded within it,” said Chicago Mayor Lori E. Lightfoot. “Through the Community Growers Program, we will enable us to use our urban agriculture to create a more equitable and resilient food system and supply food insecure residents with healthy and abundant options.”

This program, designed in partnership with the City of Chicago Food Equity Council, is a $2M investment in urban agriculture with the goal to increase food equity in communities with a history of disinvestment by encouraging the development of urban agriculture sites by local growers. This support for urban agriculture in communities with limited food access will provide residents with more options for accessing fresh produce, while also creating wealth-building opportunities for growers.

“Through the Community Growers Program, we’re looking forward to working with NeighborSpace to support a more inclusive, sustainable urban agriculture ecosystem,” said BACP Commissioner Kenneth J. Meyer. “Chicago has a long history of urban agriculture and with increased investment of resources, we are continuing this tradition.

NeighborSpace is a nonprofit urban land trust in Chicago that preserves and sustains gardens on behalf of dedicated community groups. They support community gardens — through property ownership, insurance, water, stewardship, education, tool lending, project planning, fundraising support, troubleshooting, and more — so that community groups can focus on gardening and on their community-building vision, generating food, beauty, play, health, and safety for their neighborhoods.

“This program builds on the work of countless farmers and gardeners who have been growing food in Chicago for generations by permanently expanding the footprint of urban agriculture in our City,” said Ben Helphand, Executive Director of NeighborSpace. “Importantly, the program will target its support to those growers who have not previously had access to a lot of resources and institutional support.”

Through this program, BACP and NeighborSpace expect to reduce the barriers to urban agriculture by supporting urban growers with access to land and water, resources to build long-term sites, and technical support. This program will increase equitable community access to healthy foods by creating new food access points in neighborhoods experiencing food insecurity.

“Grow Greater Englewood is proud to come together to collectively administer the Chicago Community Growers Program. There is so much pent-up demand for growing in our communities,” says Anton Seals Jr., Lead Steward of Grow Greater Englewood. “This program will jump-start several dozen grassroots growing operations, increasing hyper-local food access while building up small businesses.”

As the lead delegate agency of the Community Growers Program, NeighborSpace will provide grants and ongoing technical assistance to growers, understand the specific needs of each project site, and provide the appropriate guidance. As a part of this program, NeighborSpace will be responsible for managing the development of multiple urban agriculture sites. By providing financial and technical assistance to urban growers, NeighborSpace can best support existing urban agricultural sites and build urban gardens and farms on vacant lots.

The Community Growers Program is part of the Chicago Recovery Plan, the City’s plan to create an equity-based investment strategy to catalyze a sustainable economic recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic. Holistic investment in communities and industries hardest hit by the pandemic is paramount toward supporting equitable economic recovery across the city.

To learn more about the Community Growers Program and BACP’s Recovery Plan efforts, please visit Chicago.gov/BACPRecoveryPlan.

A program to increase availability of healthy food in communities facing food insecurity while developing essential business skills and strategies for urban growers; Applications are live for Community Growers grant and technical assistance

Giannoulias Awards

$21 Million to Combat Carjackings & Vehicle Thefts

Law enforcement to receive grants in six regions across Illinois

In an effort to combat the surge of carjackings and motor vehicle thefts in Illinois, Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias is awarding grants totaling more than $21 million to six police organizations.

The funding originates from the Illinois Vehicle Hijacking and Motor Vehicle Theft Prevention and Insurance Verification Council, which is overseen by Secretary Giannoulias’ office. The Secretary of State’s office convenes regular meetings of council members and awards funding to assist law enforcement entities – including the Secretary of State Police – to combat carjackings and prevent motor vehicle thefts.

“There is no single solution, but these grants give law enforcement needed financial resources, which will provide a greater sense of focus and effort to recover stolen vehicles and prevent carjackings that have been occurring all too frequently throughout our state,” said Giannoulias.

“People doing something so routine as getting in their car and driving shouldn’t have to fear that they’ll be robbed of their vehicle at gunpoint. Working together, we will continue to not only make our roads safer but also our communities, neighborhoods and business districts.”

“ISP’s expressway safety enforcement effort brings together the full force of patrol, investigations, license plate readers, air operations, and other assets,” said ISP Director Brendan F. Kelly. “These grant funds will energize and sustain those efforts to pursue violent offenders and keep reducing violence.”

“Partnership is essential as we work to prevent and investigate vehicular hijackings and motor vehicle thefts,” said Interim CPD Superintendent Eric M. Carter. “This grant funding will help us bolster these efforts and create a safer Chicago.”

“The Illinois Statewide Auto Theft Taskforce (ISATT) will use this money to expand our investigations into crimes related to vehicular hijacking, auto theft, insurance fraud, rogue tow operators and recyclable metal left,” said Secretary of State Police Lieutenant Adam Broshous, Director of ISATT. Lieutenant Broshous noted that nine of the 22 sworn officers that make up ISATT are part of the Illinois Secretary of State Police.

In 2022, there were 1,655 reported carjackings in Chicago, more than triple the amount in 2012, according to city figures. Meanwhile, the National Insurance Crime Bureau (NICB) reports that Chicago saw auto thefts rise 55% in 2022, an increase greater than every other city in the nation. In 2021, the NICB reported there were 13,856 auto thefts in the city, which increased to 21,516 auto thefts in 2022. Statewide, vehicle thefts rose from 28,557 in 2021 to 40,505 in 2022, according to NICB’s most recent data.

The Secretary of State’s office collects an annual $1 assessment on automobile insurance policies from the insurance industry to fund grant awards. In addition, the Illinois General Assembly appropriated an additional infusion of $30 million last year to combat statewide carjacking and motor vehicle theft.

The council is made up of 11 members who discuss strategies to prevent carjackings, motor vehicle theft and recyclable metal theft. This council fell under the jurisdiction of the Illinois Criminal Justice Information Authority from 1991-2017. Since 2018, the council’s work has led to 4,726 recovered vehicles valued at $92 million.

Black Leaders Shamefully Inject Race As Issue in Mayoral Runoff

Reprinted From March 13, 2023 Chicago Tribune Op-Ed

As the son of a sharecropper from the Jim Crow South, I know something about race and being treated unfairly. The Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr in his, I Have a Dream speech stated: “I have a dream that my four little children will one day live in a nation where they will not be judged by the color of their skin but by the content of their character.”

To inject race as a wedge issue in the mayoral runoff does a disservice to all the progress we have made toward a more perfect union. It is shameful for Black leaders suggest to that voters should choose a candidate based on skin color. Too much is at stake for our citizens to be fooled into voting for someone simply based on race.

Interestingly, all of these Black leaders use race when it suits them. For example, when I ran for the U.S. Senate against Sen. Durbin, a white man, they overwhelmingly endorsed him over me. When I ran for mayor against Mayor Emanuel, the same Black leaders overwhelmingly endorsed him. By their logic they discriminated against me.

These are the same tired Black leaders that have done very little to bring safety to the neighborhoods they represent. The neighborhoods with the highest level of homicides are represented by Black leaders, they include Englewood, Chatham, Austin, South Shore, North Lawndale, Roseland, Garfield Park, Grand Crossing, Near West Side, and Auburn Gresham. The residents living in these Black neighborhoods are being terrorized. They have watched while our Chicago Public School system has failed our children. They have surrendered to the radical leadership of the Chicago Teachers Union (CTU). Thus, many kids in CPS schools cannot read or write at grade level. The same Black leaders have failed to ensure that African American communities and businesses receive their fair share of contracts. In many communities residents do not have full-service grocery stores or access to fresh fruits and vegetables. The same Black leaders do nothing while Black citizens pay more for gas, food, insurance and other goods and services. The life expectancy for Black citizens has declined to 70 years. When COVID-19 hit, our political leaders were not prepared. I provided for free more than 60 million face masks to first responders, older adults, churches, every ward in the city and municipalities throughout Illinois and around the country. These leaders want to continue the status quo of inequality.

What is at stake in the April 4th Mayoral runoff is public safety, taxes, and education. I have been on the debate stage with candidates Paul Vallas and Brandon Johnson. I heard their visions for our city. I met with both candidates after the February 28 election.

Johnson is the candidate of the CTU and Cook County Board President and Democratic Party leader Toni Preckwinkle. He has in the past pushed to defund the Cook County Sheriff’s Police and he would not commit to filling the 1,500 Chicago police department vacancies. His tax plan would bring back the employer’s head tax purportedly to bring in $20 million in revenue, and implement a $100 million transaction tax, a surcharge on suburban Metra riders that would raise $40 million, a real estate tax, a $98 million airport tax and much more. He would drive businesses and residents out of the city. That would be devastating for our economy. Last year, Johnson voted to increase his pay on the Cook County Board while our citizens suffered from the highest inflation in 40 years. Even worse he is still on the CTU payroll and being paid to serve as a Cook County Commissioner while he runs for mayor.

Next year, the teachers contract is up for renewal. If Johnson is the mayor, CTU members will get whatever they want and taxpayers will be on the hook for the excessive spending. By the way, the CTU has spent millions on Johnson’s campaign. I remember when Johnson was asked if he disagreed with any of the CTU’s policies—he did not answer the question. A vote for Johnson is a vote for Preckwinkle and the CTU to run the city.

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SafeLIght, A CALL FORYOUTH AMBASSADORS

WE HEAR ABOUT IT ON THE

NEWS daily—senseless deaths by careless driving; the driver ran a red light, killed himself and the driver of the car he hit, and too often it was a young person behind the wheel. We say out loud subconsciously, ‘What’s wrong with these kids? Why do they text while driving?’ Why was. she under the influence? Adults in

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the room think, say and believe the same thing. We know the experience of being young and carelessness, sometimes, thoughtlessness as the consequence of the lack of experience. Age doesn’t necessarily make one responsible, but age can be added value to your experience quotient.

sponsored events in Dolton and Matteson, promoting and advancing the purpose of the foundation while providing free ice cream to attendees, to add a bit of sweetness to such a serious topic. Those in attendance were residents, elected officials, policemen, firemen, and public works employees.

The SafeLight Foundation increases public awareness of traffic safety issues by promoting, developing, implementing, and supporting traffic safety events and programs as well as collaborating with law enforcement and the community through civic engagement and outreach.

“The Teen Ambassador program was created in response to the alarming rate of teen fatalities and injuries from traffic crashes,” said Nikki Zollar, Chairman of the SafeLight Foundation. “Because driver inexperience is a leading contributor to crashes and injuries for teen drivers, we partner with law enforcement professionals, schools, and parents to help reinforce safe driving messages to prevent crashes and save lives.”

This program is a major hallmark of the Safe Light Foundation with the intended outcome to inform, teach and promote the importance of safety while driving, the difference that a conscientious sense of responsibility while driving and the reality check, ‘that if careless while driving, a car can become a weapon that kills lives on your watch.’

Having youth armed with this invaluable knowledge and sense of responsibility is a game changer. The idea is to have more youth plugged into this sense of awareness who as Ambassadors spread the word, hold discussions, stop a friend from driving while drunk, or suggest the SafeLight Ambassador’s Program.

He will be totally beholden to the CTU and not the residents of Chicago. Paul Vallas has a breadth of experience as an executive. I have asked Vallas to consider prioritizing public safety in our neighborhoods and on the CTA. His public safety plan commits to supporting and hiring more police officers. I believe he will use his best efforts to boost morale among our men and women in law enforcement.

SafeLight was founded upon this understanding with the intention of preparing youth for their responsibility while driving. SafeLight specifically supports community engagement events that promote traffic safety. Community engagement is but one of the many ways that the foundation expresses its commitment to reducing red-light running crashes and saving lives.

I have asked him to bring equal opportunity and equity to all neighborhoods. He has a plan to bring businesses back to downtown and in the neighborhoods. And I have asked him not to raise taxes. I believe Vallas will listen to the residents. He will not be guided by unions or party bosses. Vallas is a thoughtful and strong leader. He is the right person for this moment. A vote for Vallas is a vote for public safety, and an affordable Chicago.

I do not believe in defunding the police or raising taxes. I believe Vallas will do whatever it takes to bring us all together.

I do not want a job with the city. However, if I am asked to utilize my expertise to move our city forward, I will do so on an unpaid voluntary basis. I encourage voters to reject color as a basis for their decision making. Ask yourselves why Black communities made greater progress with all the Black leaders in key positions of power-- mayor, Cook County Board president, chief judge, state’s attorney, and clerk; state attorney general; Illinois House speaker and lieutenant governor. Black faces in high places do not equate to progress. We must move beyond color and focus on the issues that will shape our city for future generations.

The founders felt a responsibility towards community building that emerged as SafeSpeed. Targeting youth seemed the way to go because they represent the future. If youth are armed with information, skills, and a sense of responsibility then we are left with an informed and committed group of youth. Out of that process evolved the active participation in ‘The National Night Out,’ a nationwide community-building campaign that promotes police-community partnerships. In 2023, SafeSpeed’s foundation, SafeLight,

The Teen Ambassador program is sponsored by Donate Life Illinois and Gift of Hope. “Donate Life Illinois is honored to partner with the SafeLight Foundation to educate teens on safe driving, along with organ, eye and tissue donation. This is important work that provides teen drivers the opportunity to advocate for themselves and their peers,” said Marion Shuck, Chair, of Donate Life Illinois Committee.

The program is also supported by the Illinois Secretary of State’s Office, which is a strong advocate of teen driver safety. Donna Bilski, Metro Driver’s Education Liaison, attended the Town Hall meeting and spoke to students about the importance of driver’s education. The SafeLIGHT Foundation is a nonprofit organization committed to promoting safe driving behavior through charitable giving to traffic safety programs and people and organizations that support responsible driving.

Yvonne Davila, Executive Director, announced that applications are now being accepted for the SafeLight Foundation’s 2023-24 Teen Ambassador Program. Members of the program use their leadership skills to serve as safe driving ambassadors with their high school communities to promote an encourage responsible driving. Teen Ambassadors who graduate from the program will earn college scholarships.

For more information about the program, including eligibility requirements, visit safelightfoundation.com/ teen-ambassador-program

Lime Offering Free Rides to the Polls Throughout Early Voting and on Election Day

Limeannounced that it is providing discounted rides on its shared electric scooters to and from the polls throughout early voting and on Election Day in Chicago. The offer of two 50% off rides to and from the polls started this week with the launch of early voting and will continue up to and through Election Day, Tuesday, April 4th, 2023. Chicago residents can use the promotional code CHICAGOELECTION2023

to receive 50% off on two rides on any Lime e-scooter. Lime will communicate this offer to its riders via social media, in-app messages, and emails. Lime will also be working directly with its community partners like the Chicago Votes to implement this initiative and run awareness campaigns so that as many residents as possible take advantage.

“We understand that Chicago residents can sometimes have a long way to go to get to their polling place and do not always have affordable and accessible transportation options to go and cast their vote. Lime to the Polls allows us at Lime to help voters get to their polling place on our e-scooters or connect them to CTA buses and trains to make their trips a bit more convenient. Lime to the Polls has a great track record of making civic participation easier for residents of the cities we serve and we’re excited to double down on it in Chicago this year by including the early voting period for the runoff,” said LeAaron Foley, Director of Community & Government Relations at Lime.

“Chicago Votes is partnering with Lime to the polls to make sure voters don’t have to worry about cost, inaccessibility, or unreliable transportation when trying to vote. People who struggle financially are some of the most important voices we need represented in our democracy, and in their case, transportation costs can function as a poll tax and a vehicle for disenchantment. We are happy to address this head on by providing free rides to voters and helping more people vote,

not less,” said Chicago Votes’ Co-Executive Director, Stevie Valles.

Founded in 2012, Chicago Votes is a non-partisan, non-profit organization building a more inclusive democracy by putting power in the hands of young Chicagoans. Chicago Votes is engaging and developing a new generation of leaders by opening the doors of government and politics to young people from all corners of the city. The Chicago Votes team has been working to change laws to make Chicago and Illinois a better place to be young, and in the process, make democracy FUN! Chicago Votes runs 4 initiatives that lead programming efforts to advance this strategic vision and the mission, which are: Unlock Civics, Give A Sh*t Chicago (GAS), Reimagining Democracy, and Policy. Each initiative’s programming focuses on four main tactics: leadership development, civic education, voter turnout, and advocacy. Chicago Votes’ 2023 municipal get-out-the-vote (GOTV) efforts are citywide, with a focus on targeted wards on the South and West sides of Chicago, where the youth population is high but voter turnout is low. Central to the GOTV efforts is Democracy Corps, a leadership development program that teaches young people how to engage and turnout their peers to vote. Their efforts have included recruiting young people to serve as election judges and the distribution of over 2 million nonpartisan voter guides

through direct mail, canvassing in communities and on public transit, wheat pasting throughout the city, ads at public transit stops, ads in local news outlets, and partnerships with initiatives such as Lime at the Polls.

In 2022 Lime increased its investment in its Lime to the Polls program and joined multiple national voter outreach organizations to expand the initiative for the midterm elections in November 2022. For multiple election cycles, Lime has provided riders with free rides to and from polling places to encourage voter participation in elections at every level of government and to ensure access to transportation is never a barrier to exercising this important right. In 2022 Lime to the Polls expanded to become an integrated months-long campaign aimed at getting riders registered to vote, educating them on what elections are taking place and when, providing educational resources directly via the Lime platform, and offering free rides throughout early voting in all eligible US cities, in addition to Election Day. Lime is building on the success of its free rides to and from the polls initiatives to assist riders in engaging with the voting process, from getting registered, to casting their ballot, deepening the reach and impact of Lime to the Polls. Lime is proud to extend this initiative to local elections for 2023 and will continue to build on its success heading into the federal election year of 2024.

Ward 5 Runoff Reflections

Ward 5 is one of twelve wards with retiring Alderpeople and is one of the eight races currently in a runoff. Martina ‘Tina’ Hone and Desmon Yancy are campaigning for votes to replace 24 year veteran Alderperson Leslie Hairston. Both Yancy and Hone share a passion for the city and a love for the community. Each of them are uniquely qualified and reflect the talent and progressiveness of the 5th Ward. Financial support for their respective campaigns are quite telling. A Block Club analysis of donation records shows Yancy, the seasoned organizer backed by labor unions whereas Hone is supported by individuals. The trust of the unions is a powerful cosign in a union grounded like Chicago. Despite Yancy’s backing by the unions, Hones’ platform leverages her policy background including working for the Lightfoot administration.

“I spent twenty years working on a range of policies nearly all on equity, my professional experience makes me uniquely qualified to be the Alderperson of the 5th ward,” said Hone.

Voter turnout

Overall ward 5 had the fourth highest voter turnout in the municipal election with 41.25% of registered voters casting ballots. Of the 12,034 who chose to vote 1,358 didn’t vote for an alderperson. Yancy was the clear front runner with nearly 26% of the wards vote with Hone closely following at 18.6% of the votes. As April 4th approaches candidates have taken to the media to articulate

plans and convince constituents they are each the best person to bring together the diverse and powerful ward. Hone has received the support of others from the 5th ward race including Dee Perkins and Jocelyn Hare.

Ward geography and politics of diversity

“I grew up in a low-income home. We lived paycheck to paycheck. I understand the struggles this ward faces in a deeply personal way. I also understand the opportunities in this ward because I wouldn’t be the person I am today without my education from the University of Chicago,” said Hone.

The diversity Hone speaks of can be seen as eclectic adding to the culture of Hyde Park, whereas income diversity in other parts of the ward can be seen as an impediment to having residents needs and prioritization in ward development opportunities and decisions.

“All across the ward people want to be represented in a fair way and they want to trust their unique needs are going to be heard,” said Hone.

Yancy acknowledges how that diversity plays out across the ward and the type of inclusive decision making it will take for ward 5 to thrive.

“Displacement within the ward is a real concern for residents and communities like South Shore for example has 3 Alderpeople. We have to be able to discuss development and investments across ward boundaries, because we share the same community,” said Yancy.

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Yancy acknowledged proximity to the lakefront and lower price points make a community like South Shore attractive for investors but erases the character of the community when developers enter with a purely profit driven mentality.

Ward 5 is one of 50

“I want to build a more equitable city, I know how to look at systems.” - Hone

The newly elected decision maker will be working alongside 49 other peers. “Across the city there is a disparity between how the North and South Side of Chicago accesses services using 311,” shared Hone. She lifted up the delay in city services in ‘Black communities’ in part because of the system that does not work and has plans for addressing the failed process if elected. “The North side is getting their needs met faster because they use 311. One of my solutions is to coordinate with city employees and develop a complimentary app or process to 311 that works for our needs,” she shared.

“We can’t address the issues in ward 5 in a silo,” said Yancy. “I’m interested in public safety and police accountability. I see myself engaging on those committees that focus on policing because that is my background. I also see myself ideal for the budgeting committee. I believe I could have a real impact on finances and allocation of funds,” he shared.

Summertime Chi and open air vibes

With increased development pressures from the Obama Center the lakefront communities of the 5th ward have experience with private investors encroaching on open space. Summertime draws thousands of visitors to the South Side communities and there are rising tensions over everything from public safety to affordability, traffic and protecting opportunities for Black owned events like the Hyde Park Summerfest.

“Summertime events generate a local economy and in some cases events like Hyde Park Summerfest become a destination event. Other businesses benefit from restaurants to ride shares. Imagine a Ravinia style concert at South Shore Cultural Center for example. Our open spaces are some of the best in the city and we should do more to support.” said Yancy.

APPLICATION:

• Apply online at www.chicago.gov/adr through December 31, 2023.

QUALIFYING DEBT:

• Most AH debt, including but not limited to violations issued by the Departments of Streets and Sanitation, Health, Police, Buildings, and Business Affairs and Consumer Protection.

BENEFITS:

• Get interest, costs, and fees waived by paying 50% of the fine amount or enrolling in a payment plan by December 31, 2023.

ELIGIBILITY:

• Open to individuals only. Must be currently enrolled in Utility Billing Relief or Clear Path Relief, or have a household income less than or equal to 300% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines based on the 30-day period prior to application.

For more information, visit www.chicago.gov/adr or call (312) 742-3317, M - F | 8am-5pm

What voters should understand is the incoming Alderperson will need to work with at minimum eight other elected officials because of abutting ward boundaries in the community. A strong candidate has the ability to navigate the needs of adjacent wards and leverage the collective priorities of the surrounding communities in City Hall.

Yancy envisions 71st street as an arts corridor “I’ve met a number of artists and musicians that call South Shore home. Maggie and the late Oscar Brown are from there and the galleries that should be highlighted to draw in visitors to compliment the other aspects of the community and can be valuable in changing the perception of the community and the types of investments that would expand open air events. It is time for people to know what is so beautiful about the community of South Shore,” Yancy said.

“I’ve been to lots of Park Advisory Council meetings and I’m building relationships with the advisory councils to listen to priorities. I’ve listened to the owners of the Hyde Park Summerfest and learned their plans for protecting the open space. Spaces without cultural connections can cause conflict. Douglas Park festivals for example aren’t connected to the community and events should be used as a destination to draw people in. The parks belong to everyone and my leadership style is one of balance. How do we get maximum benefit and cause minimal harm? I know the leaders of Chicago city departments and I have an ability to navigate this city and it makes me more than capable for leading the 5th ward,” said Hone.

With their very different backgrounds but same love for the ward and mobilization of equity for Black people and the city of Chicago…who will get your vote? More importantly what is your commitment as a 5th ward resident and business owner to ensure no matter who takes office your voice is heard.

1 Party 2 Visions Chicago Mayoral Candidates on the Issues

Imagine it is February 2027 and you are four years wiser. What does Chicago look like? Are there still disproportionate vacancies on the south and west sides of the city? Has there been a slowing of displacement from gentrification?

…“I think Black voters are looking for someone who is going to uphold their interests and not tell them what they need but listen to what THEY say they need. I think they are looking for results more than rhetoric.” Katelyn J., local activist

What does Chicago’s Black economy look like? Have banks increased their lending for mortgages in Black communities? Have financial institutions extended historic lines of credit in Black commercial corridors?

…“The next mayor should help create programs that directly benefit small businesses and independent contractors, specifically solopreneurs and businesses with fewer than 20 employees.” E. Nos, music artist of Hard Work Pays Off and Nuance Social

Is there evidence of the shrinking wealth gap between Black and White Chicagoans? Are we celebrating over 75% of Black students reading and math scores above their grade level? Is the Magnificent Mile melanated?

…“My general sentiment of the race seems like politics as usual, and the substance of the policies related to their plans seems to be lacking. It’s a tough job to be the mayor of such a large city like Chicago with so many competing and different interests. Overall, I’m sensing that people don’t see much change in either candidate.” Makinde

Does the city have record low excessive force police complaints? Are there more Black detectives than ever before in the Chicago Police Department? Are there more Black contractors and vendors working for the city and employees in Streets and Sanitation, Department of Water and Chicago Park District?

“Community policing in the 90’s wasn’t popular in the departments. I spent 23 years as a Chicago Police Officer and

spent most of my years as a CAPS officer working in schools and implementing programs like D.A.R.E. for public schools and communities. Different activities from athletics, to academics, cultural programs and music are needed to keep kids involved and creative to give them alternatives. If you live in Chicago, you should have the opportunity to serve and protect your community. The next mayor needs to encourage people to live here and see themselves as leaders.” -

Just a day ago Vallas was leading Johnson in the polls (at the time of this writing). Public safety, economic development, community policing and youth engagement have been hot topics in the race. Each candidate has made vows to address public safety with equal amounts of quantitative uncertainty.

Chicago voters are divided along what at first appeared to be racial lines. Remnant signs of Ja’Mal Greens’ campaign with “SELL OUT” spray painted on them have been reported. Vallas signs with MAGA associations stand almost

as symbolic paper tombstones cementing his connection to the Republican party and anti-Black rhetoric. Johnson has called out Vallas as a conservative due to campaign donations. Johnsons’ implications sparked tension and debate on Vallas’ ability to govern without undue conservative influence. The race is divisive between municipal employees as well. The Chicago Teachers Union and the Chicago Police Department are each behind a different candidate.

BUILDING TRUST IN THE BLACK COMMUNITY

Johnson says his vision for Black Chicago residents is one of “liberation.” “We want good schools, good paying jobs, reliable transportation, and health care. We want to be able to afford to live in our communities and we want pathways to homeownership and generational wealth. My vision for Black Chicago is one that is “self-sustaining”. With the right investments and focusing on these areas of jobs, transportation, health care, housing, health food, environmental

Continued from page 11

justice, and education, these are the dynamics that create self-sustaining communities for generations.”

Vallas shared, “I’ve been enthusiastically endorsed and supported by leaders like Bobby Rush, John Steele and Jesse White because they know I’ve always been driven by a desire to serve all the communities and invest into those that have long been neglected. No one has built more schools in poor Black communities in this country than me or hired more Black administrators than I have. I don’t think there has been a superintendent who has done more for investment in the Black community than me.”

As a Cook County Commissioner, Johnson governs over one of the largest populations of African Americans in a single county in the nation and despite his tenure and political experience, there appears to be a dearth of tangible examples of Johnson’s policies or approaches addressing priorities of Black voters at the county level. Vallas sees himself as a unifier despite his misconstrued comments on critical race theory (listen to his comment in its entirety) and bringing back retired police officers. Visions

and vows are great for slogans to garner votes. The Black community will have to be vigilant and vocal no matter who Chicago elects.

PUBLIC SAFETY

Vallas is aware of the fearfulness and tension surrounding retired police officers returning to duty. Black Chicagoans deserve to have competent officers that are civically intelligent and engaged in the execution of the law responsibly. Valla’s position is to be inclusive by working with the newly elected Police District Council Members and is confident of the creation and implementation of a screening process to secure the most capable and competent officers. “We are 1700 officers down from 2018. I do believe returning cops can play a leadership

role,” said Vallas. He continued by articulating that the Police District Councils will have the most impactful input working with local district commanders and in the identification of community groups that should get funded.

Johnson shared, “if a public safety plan is about how many cops you have stationed up, you are talking about an occupation plan…not public safety

and I don’t believe residents in the city of Chicago want to be occupied.” He seeks to improve public safety through a multi-layered community investment approach that addresses root causes of violence including, mental health, youth unemployment, policing, and violence prevention. “I’m going to ask the business community in the public and private sectors to invest in our young peo-

ple and hire them throughout the year,” said Johnson.

He too has committed to hiring a new superintendent within the current ranks of the Chicago Police Department and plans on working with the newly formed Police District Councils to improve community relations with the police. “Police officers that serve should know and understand a community. They should come from the community,” said Johnson. He says it’s not about being “tough on crime” but being “smart” about it. While he says he has no intention of cutting the current police budget, he does intend on reviewing it to save money and eliminate unnecessary positions and expenses.

Both Johnson and Vallas have declined

to publicly share the names of prospective Chicago Police superintendents as well as other potential appointees for their administration.

Commissioner Brandon Johnson

Johnson says his multicultural, multigenerational campaign is indicative of the type of mayor he would be. He also says his supporters represent diverse working- class people who he plans to represent. “My constituency is multicultural, multi-generational with supporters from all areas of life, politicians, labor workers, the business community, progressive labor leaders, educators, and more because I reflect and represent their voices.”

Commissioner Johnson says his first priority as mayor would be initiating a

robust youth hiring program but doesn’t distinguish it from the current One Summer Chicago youth job program which served 20.5K last year with 45k youth having applied. His resolve is to create a youth unemployment program and partner with the business community to offer youth year-round employment.” He intends to pass “Treatment Not Trauma” mental health ordinance and reopen mental health centers. Commissioner Johnson says addressing the root causes of violence is necessary to reduce the violence on city streets. “We have defunded schools, we’ve defunded mental health, we’ve defunded transportation, we’ve defunded affordable housing and public housing. This is the manifestation of failed politics that they continue to recycle” according to Commissioner Johnson.

Vallas plans to create a universal workstudy program to leverage the purchasing power of the city and the placement of students and talent within city departments. He wishes to provide all high

school and city college students with the opportunity to participate in paid workstudy jobs in a variety of occupations. This means all Chicago departments and contractors could potentially provide mentorship and experiences for young Chicagoans. Vallas explains “the objective is to really use the city purchasing power and the city’s massive budget as a way to leverage job opportunities for Chicago youth. Work study, internships, apprenticeships, and fellowships with our first responders can be a pipeline for the next generation of police officers EMT’s and firemen. He also understands that young people need novel incentives to stay in school and sees a municipal work-study program to build bridges to opportunities through education and employment.

Can you see it? Can you see Black Chicago protected and respected? No? Fast forward to 2031….maybe 2035 or 2039? What will it take for YOU to believe Chicago can become the vision of either candidate…or any candidate for that matter?

Who can take us to that promised land of profit and potential is more than one man, it is the collective City Council, appointed officials, unions, and taxpayers– all of us. While Vallas and Johnson chart a course to a sustainable and equitable future their priorities and ability to negotiate the path forward will have ramifications for decades to come. And never forget seventy seven (communities) equals one. One Chicago. 1 party 2 visions. Pick one.

& WELLNESS

Gateway Foundation Welcomes New President and CEO

For over 50 years, the Gateway Foundation has been a leader in substance abuse recovery. Having served over 1 million patients to date, Gateway continues its commitment to assisting individuals on their road to recovery. The Gateway Foundation offers a comprehensive approach to treatment and recovery by creating personalized programs that meet clients where they are. There are residential programs, partial hospitalization programs, outpatient treatment and transitional or sober living homes.

Recently Gateway brought on Jeremy Klemanski to head the organization. With over 27 years of experience in behavioral health, Jeremy spent some time talking about his commitment to individuals seeking recovery, and the potential challenges of assisting individuals seeking recovery.

Jeremy, what is your why?

JK: I had an opportunity to see what happens when part of a family is affected by substance use and mental health. I had the opportunity to live the experience when someone gets good services and treatment and finds recovery and the restorative and healing power it has for the family. And I had the opportu-

nity to see in my life people who didn’t get that opportunity and how that continues to be a destructive force for them, their family and sometimes their business. So my why is making sure as many people as possible get the opportunity that I and my family received and have the opportunity to have a richer fuller life. And so my why is helping people get sober, helping them be a part of families, go back to school, go back to work, be a part of building businesses, be a healthy creator in our community, as opposed to someone who’s suffering in silence but also other people are hurting because of their suffering.

What do you see as your biggest challenge in leading Gateway?

JK: The biggest challenge right now is that there is a lot of need and the people who do the work at Gateway and also other organizations we’re all trying to find and develop enough qualified health professionals: counselors, nurses, physicians, peers in recovery. We are trying to develop enough workforce to meet all of that need.

That is an industry-wide problem, actually, it is a nationwide problem. But it’s also affecting things right here in Chicago and sometimes it shows up in the

clinicians who are doing the work today having a bigger caseload than we want them to have. Just having enough qualified health professionals to do this work is really the biggest obstacle that I see in this area and that I’ve experienced so far. But it’s also a national phenomenon impacting people all over the country.

Gateway has a wide range of services available, however, are there any barriers to treatment?

JK: We treat people with Medicaid, managed Medicaid, all different types of insurance and we also accept self-pay here. I don’t think economics are a barrier to treatment. I haven’t seen that. It could be in people’s minds that they’re afraid they don’t have resources or they’re afraid to reach out.

I would say for anybody who is thinking about or contemplating seeking services call. Go to gatewayfoundation.org and look at our information if you call our number or our call center we will connect you with treatment. If we are not the right place for you then we’ll understand that but we will help you connect with somebody that is. We’re not going to turn somebody away because they don’t think we’re the right place for them.

Gateway has several locations, not only in the Chicagoland area but throughout the state. They have a proven track record of helping individuals recover from addiction. Once the decision is made to seek treatment, a phone call or a visit to a Gateway location is the best way to begin the treatment process. No one is turned away due to the inability to pray for treatment. For more information about Gateway go to www.gatewayfoundation.org or call 888.706.2239 to start the recovery process today. Help is available, taking the first step is always the hardest part of the journey. If you or someone you know needs help to recover from substance use disorder, reach out to Gateway today.

Quote from Jeremy: “My life’s mission is to build behavioral health systems that foster improved access to high quality

Living a Dope Double Life with Chicago’s own Metro Blac

You may think Lenny Kravitz vibes when you first lay eyes on Tony Roby who goes by the stage name “Metro Blac”. Rest assured he is from the crib and a Bronzeville native. “I’m a big Harold Washington guy and big on the Civil Rights Movement and that is where my love of the music and my people came from,” said Metro. An all-around performer and creative Metro recently rocked the stage at the Promontory and released his EP The Metro Blac Experience available on Spotify. Metro shared that it’s his mother and sister who inspires him, “I’m looking to use my music as affirmations. I feel like in music we have allowed a lot of the wrong messages to take root in our minds. I like to create music that affirms and uplifts.” It was at the age of 21 he started to use marijuana to support his pain stemming from playing college football.

Metro is a master at marketing and a tenured sales professional who has found his place as a trailblazer on and off stage. “My wife and mother saw how passionate I was about cannabis and how it helped my health and wellness. They encouraged me to pursue a career in the cannabis industry. It took me about 2 years to secure a position at Cresco and now I work with about 40 accounts in wholesale and provide administrative needs

for those accounts,” shared Metro.

His dope double life infuses cannabis and his creativity. As the curator and driving force behind Travel Agent, a concierge cannabis experience, Metro are marrying his passions of sales, music, and marijuana to create a vibe like none other.

“Travel Agent is a means to help people connect the cannabis community with the world as much as possible. Entertaining people is what I love to do,” said Metro.

Kristen H. is a budtender with a little over three years’ experience in the adult-use sector and works with Metro to serve guests at the pop-up Zenco bar. Kristen shares “Metro Blac is bringing culture that the industry is lacking. Cannabis and hip hop go hand in hand and he’s doing it in a fun way.”

The ZenCo device is a game changer post covid. Travel Agent provides access to the pop up bar at events for a safe and classy consumption experience. “The biggest difference for guests with Travel Agent is that guests get to actually try the products and use the device, at a dispensary people can’t touch any of the products,” shared JoJo who works for Mission Dispensary and does pop-up budtending for Travel Agent.

“It’s a fancy way of smoking and people enjoy it, they may be a little confused at first but once I explain it they get it pretty quickly,” said JoJo.

The ZenCo device can run over $200 for clean smoke. Follow @themetroblac and @trvagent for hot music and dope vibes.

Making Black History One Business at a Time

What is the best way to celebrate Black History Month? Make it. Years of social activism inspired Father Michael Pfleger of St. Sabina Catholic Church (1210 W. 78th Place) to do his part to make sure the legacy of Black excellence is more than a reflection of the past.

Chicago communities are faced with chronic and generational iniquities. Scholars and policymakers have pontificated on root causes of the plight of Chicago’s Black economy.

The Black community is not befuddled. Allies like Father Pfleger are also clear on what creates and sustains the economic divide between Black and White Chicagoans. Capital.

For every $1 of wealth accumulated by white families, Black families have one cent according to The Chicago Community Trust. Economic segregation costs the entire economy.

“I really wanted to do something this year that lasted beyond Black History Month, we’ve had great programs and events here and across the city. But what I wanted was to do something that helped right here in the community of Auburn Gresham that was economic based,” shared the faith leader.

Auburn Gresham is one of Chicago’s 77 communities located on the South Side. Key commercial corridors in the community have received investments through the leadership of the Greater Auburn-Gresham Development Corporation (GAGDC). The 25 years of vacancy of the 839 W. 79th St. property now home to The Healthy Lifestyle Hub reflects the energy and intention of local advocates to develop infrastructure while growing Black businesses.

So, when Father Pfleger reflected on celebrating Black History Month for 2023 his vision to create a legacy for the community through empowering a Black entrepreneur was met with excitement and most important, financial and business coaching resources.

“I wanted to create wealth, help a business person who has been wanting to move to the next level but has difficulties finding capital and I wanted to direct the open-

ing of that business right here in Auburn Gresham,” shared Father Pfleger.

In 2020 a scathing WBEZ and nonprofit newsroom City Bureau report illuminated the lending inequity of mortgages underlying the wealth gap. Data from the report showed more loans for a single white community (Lincoln Park) than Black communities combined. The report also noted that “JPMorgan Chase for example lent 41 times more money in white neighborhoods than Black neighborhoods.”

The economy and lending also have not worked well for Black entrepreneurs. Jobs and revenue for cities, states, and the nation would gain with greater percentages of Black-owned businesses equal to the proportion of Black people in the country according to Brookings, a nonprofit public policy organization based in Washington, DC. The institution also published reports attesting to the disparities in capital lending for small Black businesses. It isn’t uncommon for Black entrepreneurs to begin their businesses with their own capital while still also still being fully employed.

The Shark Tank style pitch competition was not a oneoff experiment but proof positive of the communities understanding that a rising tide lifts all ships. About 70 businesses and professionals donated money to the competition. The $150,000 award was also intentional to ensure the winner had adequate finances to establish and or expand their brick and mortar business. Donations ranged from $100 upwards to $50,000, “nearly half of the donors were Black businesses themselves,” said Father Pfleger.

Judges evaluated over 80 business plans resulting in three finalists having the opportunity to pitch live to the panel of esteemed judges and business people including Norman Bolden, owner of Norman’s Bistro; Montel Gayles, CEO of Business Leadership Council; Stephanie Hart, owner of Brown Sugar Bakery; Jory Luster, president of Luster Products; and Carlos Nelson, CEO of the Greater Auburn Gresham Development Corporation.

First place took home the $150,000 award with second place receiving $10,000 donated by UIC and $5,000 awarded to the third place winner.

Karen Roberts, CEO of Jus Sandwiches took home the first place award money and invaluable mentorship for opening her flagship store in Auburn Gresham. She estimates the mentorship alone is worth an additional $50-$75,000 that she is receiving.

“After Covid my orders just kept increasing and I knew I needed to have adequate space and so I had just begun planning and looking for buildings and communities that could be home for Jus Sandwiches,” said Roberts. “A local community bank would have been ideal to be able to get a loan from and a $10,000 investment five years ago could have been transformational for my business, but banks do.

In her seven years of operation, she has participated in numerous programs to prepare her to be a successful business owner and most importantly, employer. “I’m currently part of the Bunker Labs Veterans in Residence Cohort and have taken Food Lab Chicago classes with Greater Chatham Initiative and I’m also a Sunshine Enterprise alum,” said Roberts, who is currently enrolled as a graduate student pursuing her MBA at the University of Illinois online.

She expects her business to employ at least 4 full–time and 6 part-time positions with salaries a little over minimum wage. Roberts shares she’s also part owner of FULLFEST, an event hosted at Chicago’s only Black owned nature center Eden Place in the community of Fuller Park with the goal of elevating other small Black eco-friendly businesses this July 1st.

August marks another celebration of Black owned businesses and Auburn Gresham surely hopes to cut a ribbon in late summer for the opening of Jus Sandwiches. As for the competition Father Pfleger hopes to see it grow and others across disinvested communities in Chicago model the competition to stand in the gap of banking inequity and build bridges to a financially prosperous future for Black Chicagoans.

Arts & Culture

African American Museum for the Performing Arts Presents Griot Lab Masterclass Recap

On Saturday, March 18th, African American Museum for the Performing Arts (AAMPA )

Griot Lab held their first ever Masterclass hosted by one of the busiest men in film & television. Chicago’s own, Robert Townsend, shared his expertise with a room filled with great anticipation, the kind generated by individuals eager to gain knowledge from one who has done what they are desiring to do. At the appointed time, following an inspired welcome from AAMPA’s Executive Director, TaRon Patton, Mr. Townsend came into the room energized and ready to go! The first thing you recognize is that

Robert, for the most part, is in constant motion. As he spoke about his many achievements and the challenges he overcame along the way, he walked back, and forth, and around the stage. He explained that the level of energized movement is quite common for him. He held the room of the next generation of film and television creators in the palm of his hand. He did not hold anything back. Robert walked the class through the process of script creation to pitching the idea. His slides contained images of script pages reflecting a level of detail that many would not realize may be needed in the development of a story. Robert spoke about getting so deep into individual scene development, that he takes into consideration colors, smells (yes, smells), background, and what to name each character as dictated by personality and circumstance. This component, he explained, is of the utmost importance as many times, it helps film executives to visualize the actors who would fit the role.

Robert then announced the next portion of the class would be interactive and he called for students who had story ideas to put their names in a hat to be drawn to sit opposite him in a hypothetical pitch session. He masterfully guided each student through the important components of making a successful pitch. Using what I like to call “the stroke, kick method” he very kindly complimented each person first on the best parts of their story and gently pointed out the areas that needed more work. It was a fascinating process to observe. You would think the students would all be young’uns, but the ages of the attendees ranged from 16 to 60+, demonstrating that dreams never have to die because you’re never too young or too old!

The class ended on a very high note, as all the students walked away feeling armed with more tools to aid on their journey to the realization of their most treasured dream, to become filmmakers!

Robert Townsend was truly the right person to launch this most important

program for the African American Museum of the Performing Arts Griot Lab. His warmth, accessibility, and professionalism have set the bar high for future teachers. The fact that the class was for a hometown group and in partnership with his brother in the arts, Harry Lennix, made it a most special experience for him.

AAMPA E.D., TaRon Patton shared plans for the AAMPA Griot Lab Masterclass will provide classes focused on dance, film, and spoken word. This reporter can tell you it was well worth the price of admission!

n You don’t need a reason or excuse to vote early.

n Chicago voters may use any of the City’s 51 sites.

n Voters may register or file address changes at any site.

n Need to register? Have 2 IDs, one with your address.

National News

National Civil Rights Museum to Host Solution-seeking, National Convening on Police Accountability

Part 1, “The Reckoning,” to include Tyre Nichols’ parents, attorney Ben Crump, and reform advocates

The National Civil Rights Museum

will host the first of three hybrid, national convenings entitled “The Reckoning: Community Policing and Accountability” on March 30 at 7:00 pm Central. As part of “The Reckoning, The Resolve, The Restoration, and The Resilience” series, the Museum will bring together thought leaders, policymakers, surviving families, and activists to examine the historical connections of systemic racial violence and find solutions for today’s challenges.

During the first gathering, the participants address “The Reckoning: Community Policing & Accountability.” RowVaughn and Rodney Wells, the parents of Tyre Nichols; attorney Benjamin Crump, social justice advocate and retired police sergeant Cheryl Dorsey; Alex S. Vitale, Professor of Sociology and Coordinator of the Policing and Social Justice Project; and Texas U.S. Representative Sheila Jackson Lee will join the gathering to pursue justice for victims like Tyre with actionable steps to thwart the chances of egregious police violence happening to more families. The moderator will be Joy-Ann Reid, political analyst for MSNBC and host of “The ReidOut.”

Since the murder of their son, the Wells have used their voice to highlight the need for reform in policing in predominantly Black communities. Memphis is one of many U.S. cities where unarmed Black citizens have died in police custody and during an arrest. Crump represents the Wells family and has vast legal expertise

representing families in criminal and civil rights cases.

As an LAPD insider, Dorsey highlights criminal, social, or public policy injustices affecting disenfranchised communities nationwide. She is a highly sought police expert on significant criminal justice issues.

A co-sponsor of the George Floyd Justice in Policing Act of 2021, Texas Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee will join the discussion on policymaking on the federal level. The measure establishes a framework to prevent and remedy racial profiling by law enforcement at the federal, state, and local levels. It has yet to advance to the Senate floor.

The 7:00 pm Central event will live stream on the museum’s website, Facebook, and YouTube channels.

“As part of our work to educate and serve as a catalyst for positive social change, the National Civil Rights Museum is committed to centering the past lessons of the civil rights movement to issues of today as we seek solutions that rid society of injustices,” said Dr. Russell Wigginton, President, National Civil Rights Museum. “These convenings over the next year are key to the resolutions we’re seeking.

The National Civil Rights Museum is committed to being a convener of understanding and change. The museum is launching this collaborative effort to include a broad spectrum of citizens from many disciplines, industries, and roles to root out the causes at a systemic level.

The two upcoming events – “The Resolve” in June and “The Restoration” in September - will center on eliminating toxic, traumatic racist culture impacting people of color to achieve justice and humanity and gain hope and healing. The series will culminate with “The Resilience,” a national symposium in early 2024 in Memphis. The national symposium combines the learnings and recommended solutions from the convenings to create an expanded platform for cause-and-effect discussions, data sharing, legislative policy, and transformative resolution.

Through the Catalyst Fund, the museum has garnered supporters like FedEx, to support the collaboration and learn from other cities and organizations nationwide. There is limited capacity for in-person guests who must be seated by 6:30 pm for the free, live event. For more information, visit civilrightsmuseum.org.

Choosing to Live Healthy With Diabetes

Though Diabetes is not a death sentence if not taken seriously, it can be. So, making healthy choices to eat better and live well with diabetes is about seeking the balance that works for you and your lifestyle. However, there seems to be a disconnect with people in recognizing that what they eat is directly associated with their overall well-being. Being conscious of this direct association will assist you in your meal planning. This is a serious note that you must impress upon yourself and others who prepare food for you. Obviously, you want to eat better, keep your blood sugar at healthy levels and better manage your type 2 diabetes( or another type) —or you’re helping a loved one manage theirs. Congratulations, you’re in luck! We established that living with diabetes means that you are responsible for paying attention to your diet. If you do your choices of what you eat can help prevent and manage diabetes. Coupled moving more with eating well helps prevent the condition—even if your blood glucose level is already in what’s considered to be a “prediabetes” range. Further, if you have diabetes, a healthy diet helps keep glucose levels in check.

As you choose menus seek out dietitian-approved recipes for your type of diabetes and expert advice to help anyone living with diabetes and or caring for a person with diabetes to make better, more delicious choices every day. You don’t need a lot of confusing medical jargon—just easy, healthy recipes and simple nutrition information you can trust. Check out: https://www.eatingwell.com/longform/8016321/ livingwell-with-diabetes\The following recipe is by Carolyn Casner and Reviewed by Dietitian Jessica Ball, M.S., RD Smart planning helps you to be prepared daily. So plan ahead with a month’s worth of delicious dinner recipes.

This Charred Shrimp Pesto and Quinoa Bowl is just what you need to get excited and engaged in your well-being start. That sounds exotic and delicious, right? And be sure there’s nothing bland about them. This shrimp, pesto and quinoa bowl is delicious, healthy, and pretty. Fortunately, It takes less than 30 minutes to prep. It is specific to type 2 diabetes In other words, it is basically the ultimate easy weeknight dinner. Feel free to add additional vegetables and swap the shrimp for chicken, steak, tofu or edamame to create a variety of quinoa bowls.

Ingredients:

Ingredient Checklist

• ⅓ cup prepared pesto

½ teaspoon salt

• 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar

1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil

• ½ teaspoon salt

• ¼ teaspoon ground pepper

• 1 pound peeled and deveined large shrimp (16-20 count), patted dry

• 4 cups arugula

• 2 cups cooked quinoa

• 1 cup halved cherry tomatoes

• 1 avocado, diced

Directions

Instructions Checklist

•Step 1 Whisk pesto, vinegar, oil, salt, and pepper in a large bowl. Remove 4 tablespoons of the mixture to a small bowl; set both bowls aside.

Step 2 Heat a large cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat. Add shrimp and cook, stirring, until just cooked through with a slight char, 4 to 5 minutes. Remove and serve on a plate.

• Step 3 Add arugula and quinoa to the large bowl with the vinaigrette and toss to coat. Divide the arugula mixture between 4 bowls. Top with tomatoes, avocado and shrimp. Drizzle each bowl with 1 tablespoon of the reserved pesto mixture.

Tips

To make ahead: Cover and refrigerate dressing (Step 1) for up to 2 days.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Size: 2 1/2 cups

Per Serving: 429 calories; protein 30.9g; carbohydrates 29.3g; dietary fiber 7.2g; sugars 5g; fat 22g; saturated fat 3.6g; cholesterol 187.5mg; vitamin a iu 1125.6IU; vitamin c 14.4mg; folate 108.9mcg; calcium 205.4mg; iron 2.9mg; magnesium 130.5mg; potassium 901.1mg; sodium 571.4mg; thiamin 0.2mg.

Exchanges: 4 fat, 3 lean protein, 1 1/2 starch, 1/2 vegetable

So You Want to Be A Costume Designer

C.L. Blackburn Contributing Writer

IT’s woman’s Month

so let’s look at Ruth E. Carter, in the fsshion world of film making waves. Do you recall her name and why you should be familiar? Well Ms. Ruth has won 2 Oscars from the Acadmey of Motion Pictures for her Afrofuturist costumes for “Black Panther: Wakanda Forever,” and for the 2018 film “Black Panther.” She is not only the first Black woman to win two Academy Awards, but she is also the first person to win for both the original and the sequel of a movie. If you watched the Oscars you know that upon receiving her award, she greeted the audience with a “Nice to see you again,” and thanked the academy for “recognizing the superhero that is a Black woman,” she said. “She endures, she loves, she overcomes.”

Denzel Washington made history as the first Black man to win two Oscars — one in 1990 for “Glory” and another in 2002 for “Training Day.” And following his footsteps, Ruth Carter made history as the first Black woman to win an Oscar for costume design in 2019 ,and this year 2023 she received her second. She had received earlier nominations for Spike Lee’s “Malcolm X” and Steven Spielberg’s “Amistad.”

What does it take to become a costume designer for film or theater?

From Dorothy’s ruby slippers to Indiana Jones’ famous fedora, to Queen’s regal Headdress’s, costume designers throughout the history of film and continue to bring our favorite characters to life through fashion. If you’re a go-getter who loves storytelling, collaboration, research, and of course, clothes, becoming a costume designer might be a natural fit. Read on to learn about the responsibilities and details of pursuing this care

Costume Designer Defined

Costume designers design identify sources/research, and create the clothing and accessories to be worn by the characters in a film, tv series, or theatrical production. The costume designer is tasked with conveying visually who a character is based on their attire. A costume is what you see first about the character and informs audiences of important details within the story that is about to unfold.

To accomplish this, the designers—who head the wardrobe department are responsible for staffing and managing the team—requiring them to tap into their inner psychologist, sociologist, researcher, historian, and actor. What Distinguishes A Fashion designer from A Costume Designer?

Both positions encompass designing clothing, fashion designers create clothing that is sold to the general public. Costume designers, on the other hand, create clothing for film, TV, and theatrical productions.

A costume designer’s engaged with reading the script, taking notes and analyzing the plot, tone, and setting of the project. They also coordinate daily responsibilities, schedules, and deadlines for the production team, and are hands-on during fittings.

Technically finished once the cameras are rolling, they’re always on standby—on set during production in case alterations or repairs are required.

Tasks required of A Costume Designer:

• Analysis: Costume designers analyze the script, talk to the director, and put together visual references before designing and assembling looks.

• Research: The designer researches relevant fashion history and must dig into the culture and vibe of the story’s setting.

• Designing: The designer’s research and prep work often correlates with the creation of sketches, fabric samples, digital renderings, and mood boards that show the types of clothing, materials, and patterns suitable to the project.

• Planning: The costumer sketches/creates digital renderings for the costume plot, which lists characters and tracks their costumes, scene-by-scene, for each.

• Production: Once, the designs are approved the costumer created every shirt, dress, necklace, and hat worn by every single actor—all while ensuring the costumes can help the actors better express their characters. And together the designer with the actor in full costume breathe life into the characters, and the film is complete.

1.“Wakanda Forever,” captures the beautiful designs by Ruth Carter

2. Eddie Murphy’s “Coming to America,” Features Eddie here as Prince Akeem from the fictional Zamunda costume designs by Deborah Nadoolman

3. James Earl Jones as King Jaffe Joffer, “Coming to America”