Chicago News Weekly 2/22/2023

Chicago News Weekly

Cheryl Mainor Norman

President & Publisher

Kai EL’ Zabar

Editor In Chief

Terri Winston

Vice President

Darnell Pulphus

Art Director

Editors

Danielle Sanders

Managing Editor

Sterling Caprico

Fashion Editor

Marti Worell

Arts & Culture Editor

Staff Writers

Dr. Sharice Braford

Liz Lampkin

Marcus Bouldin

David Pierce

Tammy Gibson

Theresa Horton

Shaneen Murray

Marti Worell

Mila K. Marshall, PhD

Contributors

NNPA Newswire

Mare Evans

Eric Grant

Cover Photography

Worsome Robinson

And The Next Mayor Is...

The mayoral election is only weeks away and all eyes are on the candidates. The polls are surprising on one hand, the incumbent is usually lined up to win. But Chicago’s Mayor has not secured first place yet and nor has any other candidate donned themselves a sure thing. Some have suggested that this could be a sign that the race is over for Mayor Lori Lightfoot.

If we were to judge based on the Harris Poll, results indicate that city residents widely criticize her performance with three-quarters of likely voters agreeing that the city would be better off with a new mayor. With that said, it’s the silent majority that hasn’t spoken so we could very well be surprised.

What we know for sure is that the citizens of Chicago will make their selection for the next mayor on February 28th. It’s almost a circus environment with nine declared candidates running. Because of this, the race remains a poker game. If no candidate receives a majority of votes, a runoff election will be held on April 4, 2023. And the likelihood of a runoff between two candidates will be necessary.

As a constituent, I have expressed your responsibility to investigate what candidate you surmise is the best person for the job. That means you need to know what exactly you’re looking for in a candidate that will assume the position and responsibilities of what issues you consider important.

In general, Chicagoans expect to exercise their right to vote this February, but many have yet to decide on a candidate. A majority 84% of those eligible* to vote in Chicago’s upcoming mayoral election plan to do so.

There’s so much to gamble on here. Candidates who show well in the race but come in below positions one or two can choose to cast their votes to one of the two with the most votes to garner good standing with the potential future mayor. Triumph in political races requires a straightforward, task. It’s on the candidate to persuade the voters that he or she is the solid leader that the city needs to significantly reduce violence, change the debt curve and deal with all other social and economic circumstances that are weakening the quality of life in Chicago.

I think that Chicagoans agree consistently on:

• The issues: Public safety is most important with two-thirds of the voters, thinking that Chicago is worse off when it comes to crime and taxes than other places in the U.S.

• The City’s Future Path: Less than a third of registered voters foresee improvement within five years from now on most key issues, and more think things will get worse than better when it comes to affordable housing, public safety, taxes and fees.

Editor-in-Chief

• The Mayor’s Job requirements: 84% of Chicagoans agree that Chicago’s leader needs to be tougher than mayors in other cities. There’s optimism, however, about jobs, with 30% foreseeing better days ahead versus 19% predicting worse.

• The past: In the 2019 mayoral runoff, violence, and affordable housing, along with city finances and policing, were also top issues. Lightfoot ran as a reformer winning in a landslide victory. Poling today indicates that as the incumbent, she runs a real risk of becoming a one-term Mayor.

• The Skinny on Lightfoot: 1. 74% of Chicago voters expressed that they think Chicago needs a different Mayor. 2. 64% feel that Lightfoot does not deserve to be reelected. About her performance as Mayor, 7% said they were very satisfied, and 14% said they were somewhat satisfied.

Interestingly, many voters are not convinced that any of the other candidates have what it takes to do the job and correct what needs correction: 47% said they have not yet decided for whom they’re going to vote. On the other hand, 21% of voters who checked ‘somewhat satisfied’ with Lightfoot’s tenure, could be enough for her to remain in the race and place as one of the top two vote-getters on Feb. 28. That gives the possibility to her going on to make the victory lap in the likely runoff election in April.

What we know to be true is that Chicago has deteriorated and seems to be getting worse. It just doesn’t have that big city luster it was known for. So, what candidate can transform Chicago and restore its first-class city charm? We will all soon find out where Chicagoans are placing their chips, and live with the hand we deal to ourselves.

Kai EL’ Zabar

photo credit: Dot Ward

2023

What You Need to Know Ahead of the Municipal Election

Danielle Sanders CNW Managing Editor

Black Chicagoans must come out in record numbers to vote. There is much at stake in Illinois in this election. This guide serves as a snapshot of the mayor’s race, key aldermanic races, and a look at the police district councils. We hope that readers use this guide as a tool to make the best decision when voting on February 28, 2023.

Voting Basics

According to the Chicago Board of Elections, Voters do not need an ID when they are already registered at the voter’s current address and are voting in the correct precinct, when the Signature appears to match the voter signature on file and when election judges do not challenge the person’s right to vote. Voters are required to have identification when election judges challenge the person’s right to vote or when the voter submitted a mail-in registration form that did not have Illinois identification/driver’s license number or Social Security number. Two forms of ID are required when the voter is registering in person, including in the voter’s home precinct on Election Day, when the voter is filing an address change in person, including in the voter’s home precinct on Election Day or when the voter is filing a name change in person, including in the voter’s home precinct on Election Day.

Acceptable forms of ID include:

Passport or Military ID

Driver’s License or State ID card

College/University/School/Work ID

Vehicle registration card

Lease, mortgage or deed to home

Credit or debit card

Social Security, Medicare or Medicaid card

Insurance card

Civic, union or professional membership card

LINK/Public Aid/Department of Human Services card

Illinois FOID card

Examples of mail addressed to voters that can be used as ID:

Bill, Transcript or Report Card from School

Bank Statement, Pay Stub or Pension Statement

Utility, Medical or Insurance Bill

Official mail from any government agency

A voter who needs an ID, but who cannot present an ID, may cast a Provisional Ballot. In order for that Provisional Ballot to be counted, the voter must present ID within 7 days of the election to the Chicago Election Board, 69 W. Washington St., Suite 600, Chicago IL 60602.

Chicago voters have two ways to cast ballots. Voters can use the paper ballot that the voter inserts in the ballot scanner (used on Election Day and for Vote By Mail), and the touchscreen that prints out a paper ballot that the voter inserts in a ballot scanner (used on Election Day and during Early Voting).

Early Voting in all of Chicago’s 50 Wards began Monday, February 13, and will be open through Monday, February 27. These sites are open on Weekdays from 9:00 am to 6 pm; Saturdays from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm; and Sundays from 10:00am to 4:00pm. All Early Voting locations will also be open as Vote Centers on Election Day, Tuesday, February 28, from 6:00am to 7:00pm. Any voter living in Chicago can vote at any of these sites, no matter where they live in the city. All Early Voting sites are fully compliant with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).

Voters can still apply to Vote By Mail and the deadline to apply is February 23rd at 5:00pm, though the Board recommends applying before then. Secure Drop Boxes at all 50 Ward sites are now open, and voters who choose to return their Vote By Mail ballot at any Drop Box at an Early Voting site, the Supersite at 191 N. Clark, or the Board Offices at 69 W. Washington. Voters who still need to register to vote, as well as file a name or address change, can still do so at any Early Voting site ahead of and on Election Day, as well as at their precinct polling place on Election Day. Voters will need to bring two forms of ID, one of those which shows their current address. To register to vote you must be:

- be a U.S. citizen, and

- be born on or before February 28, 2005, and - live in your precinct at least 30 days before the election, and

- not claim the right to vote elsewhere; and

- not be in prison/jail serving time for a conviction. (Note: Ex-convicts who have been released from prison/jail and who meet all other requirements listed above are eligible to register and vote in Illinois. Ex-convicts who have been released and are on parole/probation ARE eligible to register and vote in Illinois.)

What’s on the Ballot?

The offices of the Mayor, City Clerk, City Treasurer, Alderpeople (all 50 Wards), and Police Council Districts will be on the ballot on February 28, 2023. With a record number of eligible Black voters, it is time to harness our voting power and make our opinions known to those who represent us on the municipal level. It is our duty and responsibility to vote for those who have our community’s best interest in mind.

I challenge each of you to vote and encourage your friends and families to vote. Share this informational election guide with any eligible voter. Let us make our voices heard in this election.

City’s Top Banker, Melissa Conyears-Ervin Unopposed in this Election

The City’s top banker, Melissa Conyears-Ervin, has served as the City’s Treasurer since 2019. Conyears-Ervin manages the city’s $9 billion investment portfolio and is responsible for maintaining the City employee pension funds and the Chicago teacher’s pension fund. The office also oversees financial programs for small businesses and promotes financial literacy among city residents.

Conyears-Ervin has spent her career in the public and private sectors. After graduating from college, Treasurer Conyears-Ervin worked at Allstate Insurance Corporation for over 15 years. Before running for State Representative for the 10th District. As a State Rep, Conyears-Ervin passed legislation in Springfield to protect childcare services for all parents across the state. She also sponsored legislation that provides more than $221 million to Chicago Public Schools, ensuring that children have the teachers and educational opportunities they need and deserve.

As Treasurer, she has taken a stand against systemic racism in finance, supported Chicago small businesses, developed an RFI process that provides firms a greater level of social responsibility and promoted financial literacy for Chicagoans. In order to help small businesses impacted by COVID-19, The Chicago Community Catalyst Fund was created to provide emergency loans to aid vulnerable Chicago businesses. The Chicago Community Catalyst Fund will invest up to $50 million in the Chicago Small Business Resiliency Loan Fund to provide financial relief.

The Treasurer also co-chairs The Commission on Advancing Equity in Banking which is a network of prominent banking institutions anchored in Illinois. They are committed to advancing equity and eliminating systemic racism in the banking industry through equitable hiring, lending, and investment in Black communities.

In 2019, as part of a completely new and groundbreaking RFI process, the City of Chicago’s Treasurer’s office created a broker-dealer scorecard that focuses on a firm’s corporate profile, execution metrics, research capabilities, compliance issues and now, for the first time, gives significant weight to a firm’s overall efforts in diversity, inclusion, and corporate social responsibility.

Treasurer Melissa Conyears-Ervin began hosting “Money Mondays with Melissa”, providing Chicagoans with essential financial resources and information. Financial services experts and local leaders join the Treasurer Mondays to assist in safeguarding financial health and stability. The office additionally provides resources through weekly newsletters and special events highlighting the Treasurer’s mission.

What’s on Your Ballot Referendums You Should Know

Shaneen Murray CNW Staff Writer

While you’re researching which candidate to elect for office, don’t forget to read up on the referenda that will appear on your ballot. A referendum or “ballot measure” allows you to place new legislation through a direct vote that is either for or against a proposed law dealing with a specific issue. It usually asks a ‘yes’ or ‘no’ question that eligible voters must vote on.

A referendum is only passed when a national majority of more than 50 percent of voters select YES. If passed, the results are legally binding and the proposed referendum may result in the adoption of a new policy or specific law that must be carried out.

A referendum can be proposed by a citizen. For instance, if you want to see a change in your community, as a registered voter you have the right to start a petition to initiate a referendum on a specific matter. The petition must then be signed by registered voters equaling 8% of the votes cast for all candidates for Governor at the previous gubernatorial election. In some cases, a referendum may only be advisory, which comes from a legislative body that puts a proposed measure on the ballot to gauge public opinion, it’s similar to a poll. Advisory referendums don’t have any specific policy effect nor are they binding.

There were many potential referenda proposed for the upcoming Municipal General Election, here’s what you can expect to see on your ballot:

Proposing Ordinances by Voter Petition W35 P11

“Shall Chicago voters have the initiative right to propose reform ordinances by voter petition and enact

those ordinances by voter referendum?”

Adopting Mayoral Term Limits W35 P11

Shall Chicago adopt the following term limit for the office of Mayor effective for the mayoral election in 2023 and thereafter: no person may hold the office of Mayor for more than two consecutive elected four-year terms?”

Many Chicago residents have expressed their opinion about the current mayor, hoping for new leadership. Some have also expressed their support for shorter terms while others feel if the job is getting done, why not allow them to stay longer, pointing out the Daley era where both Sr. and Jr. Daley served multiple terms as mayor of Chicago.

Preserving the Name of Soldier Field W35 P11

“Shall the people of Chicago protect the good name of Soldier Field - which is a War Memorial dedicated to the memory of soldiers who fought for our American democracy - by prohibiting any government entity from attaching a corporate name to Soldier Field or selling the naming rights to Soldier Field in any way?”

Chicago resident Martin McGee says “we should protect the name because it’s sentimental to some, especially our veterans plus we still say Lake Shore Drive, Sox Park, and the Sears Tower, some habits are hard to break.”

Another Chicagoan says who resides in the Bronzeville area says “if we are going to change the name, we need to know how we will benefit from it… will changing the name to represent a corporate brand bring revenue

back to the communities and more job opportunities for the people… what does that mean for us?”

Reopening Green Line Train Station W16

“Shall the 63rd and Racine Green Line Train Station be re-opened?”

The Green Line station at 63rd Racine has been closed since 1996. For years, residents have urged the city to consider reopening the train station to allow more public transit options within the Englewood community. Current options for those who live on 63rd street and rely on public transportation include the 63rd street bus which runs from the lakefront to Midway airport and the westbound Green Line train whose final stop is Ashland.

The power of the referendum lies within you to propose, enact and reject laws and initiatives as well as approve or reject laws enacted by the legislature, all for the betterment of your community. Whether you’re leading the petition to propose a law or simply voting yay or nay on the ballot, a referendum allows you to be a voice for the change you want to see.

Voters Urged to Research Candidates Ahead of Police Accountability Election

David Pierce CNW Staff Writer

February 28th marks a new direction in regard to police accountability. Chicagoans will have the opportunity to vote for Police District Councils. These councils are 3 member groups of residents that will serve as voices of community members during a 4-year term to address issues relating to police accountability, oversight, and public safety. There are 22 districts across Chicago that were formed in July 2021 when the Empowering Communities for Public Safety (ECPS) ordinance was approved by the City Council.

The approval of the ECPS was a collaborative effort by The Grassroots Alliance for Police Accountability (GAPA), which is a coalition comprised of the Southwest Organizing Project (SWOP), Inner-City Muslim Action Network (IMAN), ONE Northside, Jewish Council on Urban Affairs (JCUA), Community Renewal Society (CRS), Target Area Development Corporation, and BPI Chicago.

Carlil Pittman is a Community Organizer for SWOP and he shared how the Police District councils give power to neighborhoods that once had no “say so” in how they were patrolled. “Historically what we’ve seen is that when things play out, whether it’s laws being made or decisions happening, it’s pure heavy from the

city side,” Pittman said. “So what we did was create process into the ordinance that allows real community input”.

Ana Marija Sokovic is a candidate for the Third District Council. When asked why she feels she is qualified for the position, she said, “As a computational scientist, my skills are in data analysis and statistics. When I am examining a problem (police response times, homicide clearance rates, traffic stops) I measure it and use that metric as a basis for accountability. If the data shows patterns of excessive use of force or slow response times in our district. We can point to evidence in the data to determine why the problem exists and how it can be solved”. Sokovic added, “If every other organization measures success this way why wouldn’t we do this in policing?”

Jim Blissitt is another candidate on the ballot for the Third District Council. He is a graduate of Alabama A&M University and once volunteered at Harris Home for Boys. He says he should be elected to serve on the council. “I am most qualified to serve as a district council member as I have served more than 15 years with social service organizations such as the Chicago Urban League, Centers for New Horizons, R.A.G.E., Salvation Army, Community Pipeline Inc., Chicago Com-

munity Trust, PAL, CPS, and many others”. I will focus on implementing equitable CPD hiring practices, reducing the number of blighted properties, empowering families impacted by crime, eradicating police abuse, and strengthening community knowledge about public safety”, Blissitt said.

The ECPS ordinance also created the Community Commission for Public Safety & Accountability (CCPSA) which is made up of a seven-member board that shapes CPD policy, creates public safety goals, and plays a role in selecting police leadership.

One person from each of the 22 District Councils will be chosen to be a part of a committee whose job in 2024 will be interviewing candidates for the commission and compiling a list of people which would later be sent to the Mayor. The Mayor would choose those committee members. Pittman emphasized how it starts with the district council touching base with residents regularly to maintain a pipeline for changes demanded in their neighborhoods.

“Engage community around what’s working and what’s not working, the different issues that they’re seeing and taking those concerns to the commission,” Pittman said.

Carlil Pittman encourages voters to get familiar with who may or may not be affiliated with the police. He believes candidates who have ties with the police could be voted in and disrupt the purpose of the Police District Councils.

And if our district council is filled with police supporters then we have an issue of not having the right folks that we need to sit on that commission,” Pittman said. “Councils have now been poisoned by the power that the police department has pushed through to go those positions taken to get what they want in those seats”

Pat Dowell Is Running Unopposed For Her Fifth Term As 3rd Ward Alderman

Marcus Bouldin CNW Staff Writer

Residents of the 3rd Ward will have to wait another four years if they’re looking for a change in leadership.

Alderman Pat Dowell, the self-proclaimed “mini-mayor,” will likely be elected to serve her fifth term after the three challengers looking to replace her, Al Rasho, Jasmine Robinson, and Don Davis were removed from the ballot after the election committee agreed that none of the challengers had collected enough legitimate signatures to qualify for the race. This will leave the incumbent Alderman as the clear front-runner and ensures that she’ll be able to continue her efforts on behalf of the 3rd Ward community.

Dowell has been serving the 3rd Ward community since 2007 and has focused on community-based development and engagement throughout her tenure. She cites the development of several Black-owned businesses and two Mariano’s supermarkets, as well as the opening of the XS Tennis and Education Foundation, which provides Chicago’s underserved youth with a safe and positive academic/athletic pathway to college through a community-based sports and educational program as significant accomplishments for her community. Dowell’s plans for the future of the

Ward include continued development of housing and commercial spaces along 43rd Street and the Invest South/West initiative, which will help to revitalize 47th Street.

Alderman Dowell says she’s proud of the growth of her Ward, especially in the South Loop, Bronzeville, and Douglas neighborhoods. “I’m proud of taking a community that had lost population and helping to brand it and make it a go-to community with an increasing population,” said Dowell. The population growth in the 3rd Ward is not just in the northern edge of my Ward but also in the southern part of the community. South Loop, Bronzeville, and Douglas have also seen growth.”

However, public safety remains a pressing issue for the community. “We’re committed to rebuilding the relationship between the police and the communities they serve by working better with community partners, local experts, and investing in street outreach,” says Alderman Dowell. “The community wants to see more police walking visibly in our communities. My constituents want to see a decrease in carjackings, shootings, assaults, and robberies. It’s a very complicated situation that involves the police and getting the resources they need. It also involves the improvements of schools.”

With Aldermen Dowell serving as the city’s Budget Chair, Chicago has invested $85 million for violence reduction and safety initiatives, youth intervention programs, youth justice diversion, and victim support funding. The city has not seen this level of program investment since Harold Washington was Mayor of Chicago.

Although there is no opposition to her candidacy in the upcoming election, Alderman Dowell remains dedicated to the 3rd Ward community. “I’m committed to serving the constituents of the 3rd Ward and the city of Chicago,” she declares. “I’m proud of my record and accomplishments as Alderman, and I’ll continue to work tirelessly to serve the people of the 3rd Ward.”

Diverse Field of Six Candidates Compete for the 4th Ward Alderman Seat

Marcus Bouldin CNW Staff Writer

to stand up in this race again, and I’m here, standing up for my community again, and voting for me is a vote to lead the 4th Ward with your voice.”

Prentice Butler, the former Chief of Staff for Sophia King, is also running to replace the incumbent Alderman. One of Butler’s top concerns he looks to address if elected is public safety. “One of the largest concerns I hear about is public safety,” says Butler. “We need to ensure that our community partakes in all equitable resources, which pertain to public safety, and the development of new initiatives to augment existing public resources. For example, more funding for violence interrupters and mental health pilot programs is needed for our communities. In addition, we have to find better ways to connect our youth with jobs through workforce development opportunities.”

State Representative Lamont Robinson, who has secured funding for a senior center, community center, and violence prevention as a State Representative, is also running for the 4th Ward seat. If elected as the 4th Ward Alderman, Robinson’s key priorities will focus on social justice, community resources, education, and public safety. He also aims to take action on addressing gun violence in the community by supporting a new Office of Gun Violence Prevention and implementing anti-assault weapon legislation he helped pass in Springfield. “My work in Springfield has been focused on social justice, community resources, education, and public safety to ensure everyone can live to their full potential. I will keep this focus to serve as Chicago’s next 4th Ward Alderman.”

The race for the 4th Ward Alderman seat in Chicago has attracted a diverse field of six candidates, with the incumbent Alderman Sophia King deciding not to run for re-election and instead challenge Mayor Lightfoot for the mayoral seat. The candidates’ platforms focus on public safety, economic development, and community resources for education. One of the candidates is Tracey Y. Bey, who previously ran for the 4th Ward Alderman seat in 2015. Bey seeks to bring accountability, transparency, and equality while being the voice of the people if elected to the city council to represent the 4th Ward. “This is a job of service,” says the Aldermanic candidate. “When you have candidates touting all their endorsements, you have to wonder whose voice they will carry into the city council. The community can expect me to be their voice at the table.” Bey is campaigning as an advocate for educational advancement, comprehensive public safety, and economic development. She believes these issues are pressing concerns among the constituents of the 4th Ward.

Regarding education, public safety, and economic development, Tracey Y. Bey says, “Every child should have a chance at succeeding in school. But because some of the schools are underpopulated, they’re being under-served. Some of our children are in a situation where the education system needs resources and supplies. Every child that’s in school should have opportunities for post-secondary schooling. No matter if it’s college, vocational or entrepreneurial training.”

“The strategy for public safety is the exact strategy I use now. The organization I work with, Ex-Cons for Community and Social Change, does intervention work. We intervene with at-risk youth at a street level. E.C.C.S.C. has a financial literacy program called C.R.E.A.M. (Currency Regulates Everything Around Me); we have educational resources, violence prevention, and leadership programs, and these are the tools that get the children engaged and asking the question, where can I go next? For the youth out of school, we incentivize them just for showing up to participate in programs. Sometimes that’s necessary to get them on a different path because most crime is due to economic reasons. And through our strategy, we have seen a 38% reduction in crime.”

“When we think about economic development, it’s not just brick and mortar. Serving on the Michael Reese Advisory Council-Bronzeville Lakefront, we have to have responsible economic development. We must ensure the developer brings in business that’s beneficial for the growth and sustainability of the community. We must ensure that companies are interested in revitalizing the community rather than coming here to make a profit. We need businesses that work, are necessary, and fit in within our community.”

Bey says her commitment to serving the community is a lifelong endeavor. If elected, she pledges to be the voice of the people at the city council and ensure that their concerns are heard and addressed. “I decided to run again after 2015 because my community asked me

Matthew Khari Humphries, a native of Chicago’s Southside, is another candidate campaigning to replace Sophia King. Humphries has a wealth of experience, having served as the director of the Boys and Girls Club of Chicago and the city’s senior director of Youth Policy. If elected, he will focus on advocating for resources and opportunities for all residents of the 4th Ward. “My job if elected as Alderman is to fiercely advocate for the resources, services, and opportunities needed for all of the residents of the 4th Ward,” says Humphries.

Ebony Lucas, an attorney and business owner, is confident that her experience and knowledge will enable her to bring much-needed resources to the 4th Ward district. “With fifteen years of real estate, I understand how to create housing and sustain commercial development while balancing the quality of life for all residents,” said Lucas, who says investing in youth education is critical to public safety. “How can we fight crime if we don’t invest in every child’s education? We need appropriate youth services. “

Dr. Helen Y. West is dedicated to education and believes in high-quality educational experiences for all. She has held classroom and administrative positions with the Chicago Public Schools, the University of Chicago Charter High School, and the City Colleges of Chicago. Dr. West further states that if elected Alderman of the 4th Ward, she promises “to make certain that all residents’ voices are heard at every table in every room. The 4th Ward voters need responsible, accountable, and honest representation in the Chicago City Council that’s not afraid to speak ‘Truth to Power,’” says Dr. Helen West.

From left to right, Top Row: Tracey Bey, Prentice Butler and Matthew Khari Humphries Bottom Row: Ebony Lucas, Dr. Helen West and Lamont Robinson

11 Candidates Seek 6th Ward Alderman Seat

Tammy Gibson CNW Staff Writer

Residents of the 6th Ward will have a new Alderman after 12 years. Ald. Roderick Sawyer, who is running for mayor, is not seeking re-election as 6th Ward Alderman. Eleven candidates are vying to win the seat to revitalize and make the 6th Ward a more robust and vibrant community.

Patrick Brutus, with over 20 years of public sector experience in economic and community development serving the people of Illinois says he’s running because he wants his community to return to the great neighborhood it used to be. Brutus plans to make the 6th Ward a safe, walkable, thriving area with excellent schools and parks. Brutus’ public safety plan is to work with the Chicago Police Department, improvements to reform offenders (both repeat and violent), and reinvest in local groups that are providing programs including mental health and violence prevention.

Richard A. Wooten, a Chicago police veteran, wants to provide services and programs that are needed in the 6th Ward. Wooten says he plans to expand economic development, restore the closure of historic black businesses, demand quality schools, academics, and resources for all 6th Ward students, and implement a moratorium on new liquor stores. Wooten proposes to build a senior recreation and resources facility and restore the Department of Aging Seniors Program.

Kirby Birgans, a teacher and community activist, wants to build a stronger, safer, and more equitable 6th Ward. Birgans wants children to have a future and quality of life for the residents and make structural changes for small businesses and working people in the 6th Ward.

Kimberly Egonmwan, radio host, attorney, and fourth-generation lifelong resident wants to be the voice for the 6th Ward in the City Council. Egonmwan has a strong plan to create a strong ward with the community residents and a trained Urban Plan-

ner to compile what assets and deficits the 6th Ward needs to overcome and assess what businesses, trade schools, and other amenities necessary to sustain a higher quality of life.

William Hall, Senior Pastor of St. James Community Church, will work hard to bring resources from Springfield to the 6th Ward. Hall says he will advocate fair working conditions for teachers and support staff, fully-funded public schools that uphold the human dignity of children, and partner with special education teachers, students, and families to help students with disabilities learn in an accessible and inclusive educational environment.

Barbara Bunville, a Chicago police officer, wants to restore the allure of Chatham by making the community a destination for all people who want to live and work on the south side of Chicago. Bunville plans to combat crime by supporting strategies that include adopting advanced ballistics technology, requiring gun locks, heightening police presence on high-risk transit lines, and increasing tracking and sharing of motor vehicle information.

Sylvester Baker, a retired Cook County sheriff’s sergeant, and deacon has spent his whole life in public service. Baker is running for a safer 6th Ward.

Tavares Briggs, dean of students for LEARN Charter Network, is running because he understands what’s happening in the 6th Ward and is ready to take his knowledge to City Hall. Briggs says he will reduce crime by investing in housing, health care, gun control, job, after-school, and violence interruption programs.

Paul Bryson Sr., a businessman, has been in the 6th Ward getting the work done. Bryson will take his service to the next level to provide an even greater level of accountability to the constituents of the 6th Ward. Bryson believes working together can build a stronger community that the 6th Ward can be proud to call home and where businesses can grow and thrive.

Sharon Pincham is running to deliver results to the 6th Ward. Pincham is tired of money and resources being passed over the 6th Ward. Pincham will ensure the process is accessible and transparent to get funds and grants.

Aja Kearney, a lifelong southside resident is ready to serve and represent the 6th Ward. Kearney is an advocate for public safety, education, and community service and is ready to stand for the rights of working-class families in the 6th Ward.

5th Ward Candidates on the Issues

Dr. Mila K. Marshall CNW Staff Writer

CNW was able to speak with 8 of the 11 candidates who responded to a set of interview questions on how they would help the most vulnerable 5th ward residents, Chicago cannabis tax dollars, transparency and accessibility to constituents and more. Candidates included in this interview are Jocelyn Hare, Gabriel Piemonte, Wallace Goode Jr., Desmon Yancy, Tina Horne, Renita Ward, Joshua Gray and Dee Perkins.

Cannabis tax dollars

No candidate was aware of how Chicago currently allocates cannabis tax dollars. Piemonte supported cannabis legislation and believes the revenue should be used in a manner directed to public safety or violence prevention as does Desmon Yancy. Support for youth was also shared between Yancy and Dee Perkins, with Perkins expressing that revenue should be used to improve Chicago Public Schools specifically. Renita Ward acknowledged taxation is pressuring Chicagoans and that revenue from cannabis can be used to prevent increased taxation burdening the city’s most financially vulnerable. Joshua Gray hinted at support for commercial corridors in South Shore and believes while the ward may be ideal for cannabis businesses he would have to get the input of the community on how they feel about the location and types of businesses that fit.

Communication and accessibility

Candidates were all of the mind to continue to use technology for listening and sharing and recognized the need for a diversity of connections.” I think that they can count on me using technology more”, said

Joshua Gray. Piemonte and Yancy each have backgrounds that have kept them in close contact with the public in their respective professions. Piemonte believes his journalism background and Yancy with his background as a community organizer make them ideal for the work of listening to diverse communities and helping strategize and prioritize. Hare communicated she has an open-door policy and is committed to a democratic way of decision-making with voting privileges for residents. Tina Hone expressed the creation of liaisons for a pipeline of information sharing between her office and the public if elected. Ward knows there will be a hybrid model if she is elected and shares “a major tenant in my campaign is for people to feel listened to.

Department of Environment and environmental justice

All candidates believe the Department of Environment should be reinstated and support finding ways to fund the municipal agency as well. Piemonte suggests creative surcharges and fees for the city’s chronic polluters. Goode is aware of the importance of the environment and the 5th ward and acknowledged Lake Michigan as a huge part of the ward’s identity and economy. Yancy notes that there are neglected portions of the ward that

deserve infrastructure investments at the lake and local parks. One candidate who identifies as an environmentalist, Dee Perkins believes Chicago leaves money on the table allowing the private sector to cause environmental harm with soft penalties.” Huge polluting industries are allowed to get away unscathed and we have to pick a side, if we are serious about our environment we have to be responsible”, said Perkins. Hone shared communication on environmental racism, protecting Black communities from vehicular pollution as well as planting more trees should be priorities of the DOE when it returns.

5th Ward aldermanic candidates, (L-R from top row): Marlene Fisher, Robert Palmer, Jocelyn Hare, Desmon C. Yancy, Wallace Goode, Kris Levy, Gabriel Piemonte, Dailka “Dee” Perkins, Martina Hone, Joshua Gray, Renita Q. Ward.

8th Ward Up for Grabs in 3-Way Race

Danielle Sanders CNW Managing Editor

The 8th ward consists of the South Shore, Chatham, Calumet Heights, Avalon Park, Burnside, and South Chicago neighborhoods. This year 8th ward residents decide whether to keep the current Ald. Michelle Harris or elect new leadership with Sean Flynn or Linda Hudson. Residents say public safety and economic development should be the top priorities for the 8th ward alderperson.

Ald. Michelle Harris

A resident of the 8th ward for over fifty years, Ald. Harris has served the community since her appointment in 2006. She was elected in 2007. According to her bio, Ald. Harris lists her accomplishments as the building of South Shore International College Prep, the new Rosenblum Park; a new fieldhouse at Jesse Owens Park; and the new Gately Track and Field Facility. Alderman Harris also facilitated the construction of the Transportation, Distribution and Logistics Facility at Olive-Harvey College; a new Social Security Administration Building; Montclare Senior Residences of Avalon Park, Phase I & II; and Montclare Senior Residences of Calumet Heights in the 8th Ward. Two major developments are still in the works in the 8th ward including the Regal Mile Studios in South Shore, the new Fat burger restaurant and a new art incubator founded by Theaster Gates. Ald Harris says adding more cameras and plate readers in the community is necessary

to address public safety issues in the ward.

Linda Hudson

This is the 2nd time community organizer; Linda Hudson has challenged Ald. Harris for her 8th ward aldermanic seat. In her WTTW questionnaire, Hudson says she is “because I no longer recognize my community. The 8th Ward was once the mecca of the southside. We have blocks and blocks of vacant and boarded-up businesses. It is evident our leadership does not care. I am running because I care and “We Deserve Better”.”

Hudson says she believes the 8th ward deserves better leadership, accusing Ald. Harris of being “the voice of the 5th floor not her constituents”. She pledged more changes and economic development to the 8th ward saying, “ In two years, our ward will be the gateway to the Obama Center. I am committed to courting well-established businesses, bringing healthy eating options, and family entertainment, and making the gateway safe for our residents and visitors. I care enough to want to change the community that raised me.” Hudson has been endorsed by the Chicago Tribune.

Sean Flynn

Sean Flynn is the former chief of staff for Alderman David Moore. He resigned from that position to run

for 8th Ward alderman. Flynn says his top priorities as Alderman would be reducing crime, enabling economic development, increasing traffic safety, and improving community engagement. “The community service experience I have gained as a youth worker opened my eyes to the realities of the people who live in underserved neighborhoods. My educational background provided me insight into government processes and networks that can help a community run efficiently. The work experience I acquired in city government gave me the practical tools needed to service the constituents of a Ward and allowed me to collaborate with other city service departments to solve complex problems residents may face. I plan to listen to the concerns and ideas of the community residents. It’s important to be a voice of the community by communicating the needs and wants of the constituency which I would represent. It’s necessary to collaborate with community residents to achieve positive results. If the city and its people are going to succeed, we have to get there together.”

Draper and Barnes Seek to Unseat 9th Ward Alderman Beale

Tammy Gibson CNW Staff Writer

The 9th Ward includes six areas, Chatham (Chatham Club, Chesterfield, and West Chesterfield), Roseland (Burnside, Roseland Heights, and Rosemoor), Pullman, Washington Heights (Fernwood), West Pullman (Colonial village) and Riverdale (Altgeld Gardens, Concordia, Eden Green, and Golden Gate).

Alderman Beale is facing two challengers, Cleopatra Draper, and Cameron Barnes. The residents in the 9th Ward say their concerns are similar to the issues of the Mayor’s race, including crime, city services, affordable housing, education, economic development, and the continued rise of criminal activities.

Incumbent Anthony Beale is seeking re-election because he believes he has taken the community that had been written off and made it a strong comeback community. Beale’s accomplishments to the 9th Ward were bringing

$500,000,00 in investment to the community in the green manufacturing, logistics, and distribution companies and businesses, including Amazon, Culvers, Pullman Community Center, and Walmart, that brought 2,000 new jobs.

Beale was instrumental in the designation of the Pullman Historic District as a national park. Beale plans to revitalize the 9th Ward with a new hotel, the nation’s first Vertan’s Roaster, and Chicago’s first vertical harvest and supports Reverend Meeks’ plan to build 1,000 new homes in Roseland. To protect his Ward from the uptick of crimes, Beale is hoping to partner with the Mayor to restore the correct number of police in the department, establish bolster community policing, and with the funds, Beale has secured the establishment of a community “cop house.”

Cleopatra Draper is determined to bring what she believes will be better

leadership to the 9th Ward. The founder of Roses in Roseland, Draper, wants residents in the 9th Ward to have a better quality of life. Draper noticed that hard-working residents were quietly suffering, and their fundamental concerns were ignored. The 9th Ward, with over 50,000 people, is a food, transportation, medical, and childcare desert. Daper, a resident of the 9th Ward, plans to revitalize the Roseland business district, bring in better grocery stores, housing stability, fight against gun violence, and return of mental health facilities. Draper is committed to her community which she has fought tirelessly to elevate. Draper will be the first woman Alderperson of the 9th Ward if elected.

Cameron Barnes, National Youth Director of the Rainbow PUSH Coalition, working alongside his mentor, Rev. Jesse Jackson Sr., is running to ensure the voices of the people of the 9th Ward

that have been left out and ignored are heard in the City Council. Barnes wants to address crime by focusing on violence intervention with funding, more social services, mental health services, counseling, and outlets that provide alternate avenues for those committing crimes. Barnes wants to revitalize the 9th Ward by talking to the residents about businesses and resources they want in the community, attracting black-owned businesses, investors, and development to the 9th Ward, and using the vacant properties. Barnes’ platform on youth education is to bring back trades. Barnes proposes to rethink the schools’ curriculum that serves children and implement this new innovative curriculum by Fall 2025. Barnes promises to designate an “open house” and “open door” designated 2 days a month where constituents can come and address issues with no appointment needed.

A Second Term or New Leadership? Chicago Voters Decide on February 28th.

Danielle Sanders CNW Managing Editor

country. Public Safety, Education, Economic Development and the rising cost of living in Chicago are the issues most concerning to Black Chicago residents as we approach election day. Unlike the last mayoral elections, this year’s race for control of the 5th floor has nine contenders. In addition to the incumbent, Mayor Lori Lightfoot, Paul Vallas, Cook County Commissioner, Brandon Johnson, IL Senator, Chuy Garcia, Businessman Willie Wilson, Activist, Ja’Mal Green and Ald. Sophia King and Roderick Sawyer continue to battle it out on the campaign trail in the last few days leading up to the election. If no candidate receives a majority of votes on February 28th, a runoff election will be held on April 4, 2023.

Mayor Lori Lightfoot

Incumbent Lori Lightfoot made history when she was elected in 2019 as the 2nd woman, 1st LGBTQ+, and first Black Woman to hold the city’s highest office. Her administration did not anticipate the 2020 COVID-19 pandemic and had to switch gears and navigate Chicago through an unprecedented health crisis. While mostly applauded for her administration’s handling of the COVID-19 pandemic, her administration has faced criticism for some of her decisions and how they impacted Black residents in Chicago. Among her biggest criticisms were: raising the bridges during the 2020 Chicago protests and civil unrest surrounding the George Floyd murder, her handling of the Anjanette Young incident, and broken campaign promises she made to support an elected school board and reopen mental health clinics.

If re-elected Mayor Lightfoot says she will continue expanding eco-

nomic opportunity and neighborhood development across the city with her signature Invest South/West initiative and continue her work in pushing for police reform and bolstering education. She touts her Invest South/West initiative as key in bringing valuable investments into Black Chicago neighborhoods.

The Challengers Paul Vallas

The former CEO of CPS, Paul Vallas has established himself as a “pro-law enforcement” candidate, securing the endorsement of the Fraternal Order of Police. Vallas says to restore the Chicago economy, he plans to take portions of TIF money and place them in a Community Reinvestment Fund. “These funds will give the economic development authority capacity to have capital investments thus being able to provide gap financing and become the equity Investors needed to attract other investments.”

Vallas says while he won’t increase police spending, he will reallocate it to fill vacancies, increase police on public transportation, and ensure each police district has a mental health center. “We have to create a social service infrastructure within those districts. The police need to be surrounded. Every district needs an array of social services and part of rebuilding the local economy includes reopening these services because they create jobs, employment, and economic activity. It’s mental health, opioid addiction services, counseling and more.”

Brandon Johnson

Cook County Board Commissioner, Brandon Johnson says like most middle- and working-class families, his family has felt the challenges of living and raising

On Feb 28, 2023, Chicago will choose Mayor Lori Lightfoot to lead the city or elect a new leader for the 3rd largest city in the

children in the city. It’s one of the reasons he was inspired to run. “We love living on the west side of Chicago but have experienced firsthand how horrific the violence can be. It’s left us angry, frustrated, scared, and overwhelmed. I want to lead a city that creates safety, security, and opportunity. That’s what I want for my family and for every resident in the City of Chicago.”

The department will work with community partners across the city. Officers will know the communities they serve. For the first time in decades, trust will be built in every neighborhood, and crime will go down”, Garcia states on his website.

Garcia says his budget will focus on careful Stewardship, New Revenues, Transparency and Creating the Foundation for Future Growth. “Chicago needs to grow, and my comprehensive growth strategy has no gimmicks and fancy allusions to bygone eras when we plowed up neighborhoods and destroyed communities in the name of “progress.” Our plan builds from the grassroots up. It is not rebaked urban renewal. But growth demands more than effective strategies; it requires careful and honest management of our resources.”

Sophia King

African Americans and other people of color get what’s due to them as well. It’s about leading with a sense of equity.”

Willie Wilson

The Chicago businessman and billionaire is known for his charitable contributions to many Chicago Communities. From his gas and grocery giveaways to providing masks and other PPE during the pandemic, Dr. Willie Wilson says it’s time to rebuild Chicago together. Wilson says “we all know what the problems are. It’s solutions we need”. Wilson says his plan to rebuild Chicago includes implementing a comprehensive, reg-

Brandon Johnson says his “Better Chicago Agenda” strengthens Chicago’s safety, schools, jobs, health, homes, and transportation. As mayor of Chicago, I will commit $1 billion in new investments to make Chicago safer, grow Chicago businesses, create good jobs, strengthen public schools for all of our children, protect our environment, improve mental health, and fix our broken transportation system – and I am the only candidate who has the plan to pay for all of that without raising property taxes.”

Chuy Garcia

Currently representing the 4th Congressional District in Congress, Jesus “Chuy” Garcia is known for fighting for workers’ rights, universal health care, the rights of immigrants, and criminal justice reform. Garcia says focusing on public safety will be a priority. “When I am mayor, Chicago will get a fully funded, modern police department that engages in real community policing, constitutional police policies and practices, and comprehensive community violence interruption efforts.

The only woman challenging Mayor Lightfoot, 4th Ward Alderwoman Sophia King says she chose to run because “we need more collaboration not more confrontation and we can go further together.” As Mayor, her focus would be on public safety, equity, and economic development.

“I’ve been lifting up African Americans and not just from an economic standpoint. I’ve brought true equity to my ward and that’s what I’d bring as mayor. I want to uplift the entire city but also make sure that

ulated grants program for education, trade, and business recovery. He also supports adding more funding for policing to get crime “under control”.

Wilson’s public safety plan includes provisions to eliminate the CPD’s hiring exam, have four police districts with each having its own superintendent, and raise the retirement age from 63 to 67. “I know there are some people who say that we should defund police officers, but I think we should increase their pay, “Wilson said. Wilson also wants to invest in trade schools, allow ex-offenders a chance to reintegrate into society with job and skills training and invest in mental health support services and services for the unhoused.

Roderick Sawyer

Alderman Roderick T. Sawyer was elected to represent the 6th Ward in April 2011. Since his election, he has worked tirelessly to improve the communities within the 6th ward. Alderman Sawyer says he believes that all politics is local and remains committed to defending the community that he has lived in his entire life. His strong focus on local development helped usher in

Thrive Zones and more resources from the Neighborhood Investment Fund that helped revitalize the local business districts of his ward. Alderman Sawyer says he intends to bring more economic investment to the south and west sides with TIFs. “We have to get a handle on our TIF (tax increment finance) districts and ensure the ones we do have are being used for the original intended purpose - spurring economic development in blighted, economically depressed areas.”

One of the sponsors of the Empowering Communities for Public Safety Ordinance, the election of civilian oversight members in police districts is just one way, Alderman Sawyer wants to enact police reform. “When voters go to the polls in February to vote for Mayor, they will also vote for civilian oversight members in 22 police districts, the result of my five-year effort. This will help our police be trusted and respected in all communities, not feared in some.”

Ja’Mal

Green

As Mayor, Activist Ja’Mal Green says his priorities will be public safety, modernizing city government, eco-

nomic development, and climate sustainability. “We need a neighborhood mayor who understands what folks need in the community, as well as what small businesses need and how to really build thriving business corridors. I plan to do everything that I can to stay on the front lines to bring forth justice and resources.”

His “E.P.I.C. Public Safety platform includes systemic solutions to end violence approaching it from four angles: Economic Prosperity, Prevention, Intervention and CPD Reform. Green believes the items outlined in his public safety plan can be paid for with existing funds in the City’s budget. “I think the money is already there. I plan to reprioritize it and spend money on things that actually work.”

Kam Buckner

As a State Representative, Kam Buckner is House Chair of the Illinois Legislative Black Caucus, was a lead negotiator on the nation’s most comprehensive and consequential clean energy package, and has worked to pass legislation on public safety, equitable schools, economic empowerment, and jobs. Buckner says his 4-star agenda “lays the groundwork to make our people safer, our schools better, our businesses thrive, and our city livable”.

His public safety plan includes investing in neighborhoods, strengthening community policing, and creating greater accountability. He intends to bring economic investment into communities with “people-first policies focused on jobs, local businesses, and neighborhood development”.

If no candidate receives a majority of votes on February 28th, a runoff election will be held on April 4, 2023. Black Chicago residents must come out in record numbers to make their voices heard. In addition to important issues like public safety and economic development in our neighborhoods, also at stake is our political power. With seven black candidates on the ballot, it is inevitable that our vote will be split. Our votes will undoubtedly shift the balance of black political power in Chicago and determine which candidates will face off in the run-off in April. Research and learn about each candidate and their positions on the issues and ask yourself the question, “Which of these candidates will best represent me, my community, and my values?”

Ald. Derrick Curtis Hopes to Grab a 3rd Term.

Incumbent, Derrick Curtis has served as the 18th Ward’s alderman since 2015. He hopes to secure his third term in the municipal elections on Feb. 28th. He faces community organizer, Heather Wills. Wills is a community organizer who works with the Poor People’s campaign and the Workers Center for Racial Justice. She’s also an ordained minister. The 18th ward covers the Southwest Side, including all of Ashburn and parts of Marquette Park and Auburn Gresham.

Ald. Derrick Curtis

Alderman Curtis says the most pressing issue concerning his ward is public safety. He said, “the number one issue in our city is Public Safety. In the 6th and 8th police districts that cover the 18th Ward, we are advocating for increased manpower. Another critical issue in the 18th ward involves working with the residents of Ford City Condos to help them avoid possible displacement due to unsafe structural conditions that may possibly cause them to lose their homes. I am in discussions with City, State, and Federal agencies to bring attention and much-needed help to this issue.”

He says reducing crime and increasing public safety requires working with police and community organizations. “We are reaching out to our existing CAPS and neighborhood watch resources to help them in any way

CNW Staff Report

possible, and we are adding more shot spotters and license plate readers”, Ald. Curtis said.

Alderman Curtis says he is working diligently to create more economic growth and bring more resources to the residents of the 18th ward. Ald. Curtis says, “More economic development means more jobs. We have a new Pete’s Fresh Market being built that will bring more job opportunities to local residents. The new Buddy Bear car wash that is now in the 18th ward hires local residents as well. Also, as transportation increases, being one of the leading transportation hubs with ITI Intermodal creates opportunities to provide local residents as well as second chance individuals with good-paying jobs in the transportation industry. The Black Fire Brigade, which was started in 2018 in the 18th ward, is the number one crime prevention initiative in the stateand first in the Country, to date, putting over 500 students successfully through EMT classes to obtain their certification for free.”

In addition to bringing more development and resources to the ward, Ald. Curtis says creating a community for families, seniors and young people is paramount to the ward’s success. “We have a strong lineup of Senior based events, and resources available from our service office to help them manage their homes, budgeting, and other issues specific to their demographic.

We host many family events, such as back-to-school parades with free supplies, and providing Christmas for less fortunate families while also supporting various youth sports initiatives, as well as collaborating with schools on community engagement projects like feeding the homeless.”

“I am proud to have served the 18th Ward for over 25 years, and our motto has always been ‘bringing people together.’ I intend to keep doing that.”

Heather Wills

Wills is a community organizer who says she is running to create a safer 18th ward. Wills says the most pressing issue facing the 18th ward is the lack of proactive organization and aldermanic presence. She says she wants to address this by establishing a network of block clubs, neighborhood watch programs, and civic organizations to enhance connectivity. She says she also intends to walk through the ward annually to listen to residents’ concerns.

She says proactive and reactive solutions will mitigate community violence. “Block clubs, neighborhood watch programs, civic organizations, community centers, mental health resources, and involvement in CAPS programs and community meetings. However, none of these solutions happen by osmosis — it takes a diligent and intentional commitment to organizing.”

The Race for the 20th Ward. Who will Cross the Finish Line?

Liz Lampkin CNW Staff Writer

Back of the Yards, the majority of Woodlawn and Washington Park, Englewood and a northwestern corner of Hyde Park. These neighborhoods make up what is known to many Chicagoans as the 20th Ward. Located on the Southwest side of Chicago, bordering Canaryville, the 20th Ward is a continuously growing community. With the upcoming election on February 28th, the Ward’s current Alderwoman, Jeanette B. Taylor is running for re-election. Claiming victory in 2019, Taylor has served as the 20th Ward Alderwoman for the past three years. In the 2019 election, Taylor ran in the general election against eight other candidates. Taylor defeated Nicole Johnson in a run-off and is a committed advocate for the Ward to ensure the voting members of the community reap the benefit of the Obama Center and that the people of the Ward aren’t victims of gentrification. She has also sponsored the ordinance, Amendment of Municipal Code Title 5 by adding New Chapter 5-25 to be known as “The Accountable Housing and Transparency Ordinance which focuses on safe, affordable living for residents of Chicago. As Jeanette Taylor continues her fight for affordable housing, she is up against two familiar opponents, Jennifer Maddox, and Andre Smith. She is endorsed by United Working Families. Maddox, a Chicago native born and raised on the South Side of the city. After serving 27 years with the Chicago Police Department, she recently retired from CPD but is well aware of the city’s battle with crime. She hopes to get more community members involved in the fight for reducing crime and hopes to be elected to the New Police Council. In 2011, she founded the 501 (c)(3) organization, Future Ties. The organization provides afterschool and summer programs to increase the academic achievement of youth who participate. Future Ties also works with residents of the Woodlawn community to equip parents, teens and youth in developing skills to compete in the workforce. Her mission is to continue serving communities of the city of Chicago in a conscious and compassionate through her leadership and action for the well-being of the community.

Andre Smith, a pastor, an entrepreneur, a resident of Washington Park and founder of the nonprofit organization Chicago Against Violence is the third and final candidate vying for the 20th Ward Aldermanic position is familiar to this race. He unsuccessfully ran for the 20th Ward seat on the City of Chicago Council in 2015 and 2019. He also ran for the Illinois House of Representatives District 5 in 2016 but failed to make the ballot. Smith deems himself as a public servant who fights for the quality of life of others. Early in his career, he participated in protests to establish a trauma center at the University of Chicago Medical Center. He wants to ensure that the residents of the community he desires to lead have a voice and they feel safe in their community.

Residents of the 20th Ward are concerned with the economic revitalization of the 63rd Street corridor. The redevelopment of 1.65 acres on 63rd Street between Ingleside and Greenwood avenues would spark movement toward fulfilling a 2020 ordinance requirement to boost Woodlawn’s affordable housing stock by redeveloping 52 city-owned lots.

Under the ordinance, at least 30 percent of new apartments built on those lots must be made affordable to low-income households, making less than 50 percent of the area’s median income. Residents are also concerned with job creation and ways to keep the youth in their community safe and active.

Three Way Race for Control of the 16th Ward

Incumbent Ald. Stephanie Coleman will go headto-head with a Chicago Police Officer and a Nonprofit director to retain her seat in Chicago’s City Council in the municipal elections. Ald. Coleman was elected in 2019 to serve the 16th ward. The ward covers the neighborhoods of West Englewood, Englewood, Chicago Lawn, New City, Gage Park, and Back of the Yards.

Alderman Stephanie Coleman

Since taking office, the Englewood community has seen new investments with a new grocery store, Go, Green Fresh Market, a new senior housing development, and new retail spaces. Coleman also spearheaded the Englewood Music Fest for the last two years. Coleman says she is running for reelection to continue the work she started. In a WTTW questionnaire, Coleman said, “We must continue the progress our ward has made under my leadership, particularly in overcoming historic forces of disinvestment and discrimination. In four years as the voice for all 16th Ward residents in City Hall, my approach has always been community first. While I have worked tirelessly to improve lives throughout our city — providing funding for violence prevention programs and affordable housing among many other measures — the residents of my ward have always been front and center. I go to bat for ward residents every single day, from advocating for economic development projects such as the innovative Englewood Connect community hub to sponsoring Englewood’s first music festival to build affordable housing for our seniors. We are turning the corner and we must continue our progress.”

She says the most pressing issue in her ward is violent crime. She supports more funding to hire more police officers and detectives. She says implementing the federal consent decree must be done to foster trust between the police and the community. Coleman seeks an “all of the above strategy” to combat violence in-

cluding diversion and violence intervention programs.

Carolynn Denise Crump

Carolynn Crump

is a Chicago Police Officer who previously ran for 6th District Illinois State Repin 2022.

Crump says she’s running to improve the quality of life in the 16th ward. She says, the ward has suffered from a lack of leadership and she is better equipped to improve economic development in the 16th ward. In her WTTW questionnaire, Crump said, “The incumbent has failed to address issues of crime, economic disinvestment, and quality of life. My opponents offer piece-meal approaches to combatting crime, reversing years of disinvestment and investing in our children’s futures. I have outlined a holistic, comprehensive plan for the renewal of the 16th ward that calls for common-sense police measures, practical support of economic development, partnering with the business community and maintaining our neighborhood schools and community centers.”

Crump says the most pressing issue for the 16th ward is the lack of real estate developments. “The 16th Ward is in dire need of real estate developments for residential homes, apartments, condos; small and commercial businesses; and places for leisure and recreational activities like theatres and hotel establishments for people in all ages and abilities. There are many vacant lands, abandoned buildings, zombie homes, and junk yards left behind which depreciates the value of resources coming into the community and continues to make the area depressing.”

Eddie Johnson III

Eddie Johnson III is an educator who serves as the executive director of the Antioch Community Social Service Agency. This is his second run for Alderman. He ran in 2019 and lost to Ald. Coleman. He says he’s running to ensure his family and other families can enjoy a “safer, healthier and cleaner” community. In his WTTW questionnaire, he said, “I’m running for Alderperson in the 16th Ward because I’m tired of paying for city services that I’m not accurately receiving. I’m running for Alderperson in the 16th Ward because I’m tired of walking past uncleaned city vacant lots, unsecured vacant homes and I’m tired of being worried about the safety of my family and the safety of others in my community.”

Johnson said public safety and the lack of economic opportunities are the most pressing issues facing 16thward residents. His plan includes providing economic development and job opportunities for young people 14 - 25 years old. Providing accessible and free recreational, leisure, and sports programming opportunities for every child 6 - 17 years old during out-of-school hours and building a better relationship with the police and the community.

David Moore Continues to Represent 17th Ward.

Alderman David Moore has represented the 17th Ward since 2015 and runs unopposed in this year’s municipal election. The 17th Ward under the new ward map consists of areas of Auburn Gresham, Englewood, Marquette Park and Chicago Lawn. An alderperson represents residents in their wards and votes on proposed loans, grants, bond issues, land acquisitions and sales, zoning changes, traffic control issues, mayoral appointees, and other financial appropriations. Through his work as a community organizer and in several campaigns, Alderman Moore has connected with people and issues in every corner of the ward he has resided in for nearly 40 years.

As alderman, Moore believes his first priority will be to tackle traditionally neglected areas in the 17th Ward–from severe unemployment and school closings, foreclosed homes and abandoned buildings, to street and sidewalk improvements and tree trimming. He believes such challenges deserve the attention of a full-time alderman, whom he considers the “front line” for facilitating progress in Chicago neighborhoods.

Alderman Moore sits on six city council committees: Economic, Capital, and Technology Development, Housing and Real Estate, Human Relations, License and Consumer Protection, Rules & Ethics and Zoning, Landmarks and Building Standards.

As alderman Moore says his vision con-

sists of three aspects, “Vision, Values, and Voice.” He believes in making the 17th ward a clean, safe, and working community. Since taking office, Alderman Moore has been an outspoken supporter of the South Suburban Airport. In addition, Auburn Gresham is now home to new developments including the Auburn Gresham Apartments on 79th street, the Healthy Lifestyle Hub and Chicago Auburn Park, home of the area’s first Metra Station. The 17th Ward also saw the loss of grocery stores like Aldi and Englewood Whole Foods, however, the Save-A-Lot Grocery store chain has received TIFs to lease and rehab grocery stores across the city including in the 17th Ward.

From Left to Right: Carolynn Denise Crump, Ald. Stephanie Coleman, Eddie Johnson III

CNW Staff Report

New Leadership Imminent in 21st Ward

Danielle Sanders CNW Managing Editor

After 20 years of service, Ald. Howard Brookins, Jr., announced his departure as the long-standing alderman in the 21st ward. Seven candidates are vying for his City Council seat in the upcoming municipal elections.

Kweli Kwaza, Ayana Clark, Cornell Dantzler, Larry Lloyd, Preston Brown, Jr., Daliah Goree and Ronnie Mosley are each on the ballot for 21st ward alderperson.

Initially considered the front-runner and endorsed by the Chicago Tribune and Ald. Brookins, Jr., candidate Ronnie Mosely’s credentials were recently called into question after a Chicago Crusader report revealed Mosely fabricated Morehouse academic credentials. There was no information on his plan for the 21st ward immediately available on his website.

Ayana Clark, a former staffer for Bobby Rush would be the first woman alderman in the ward if elected. Ald. Howard Brookins Jr. (21st), who is seeking his sixth City Council term in 2023. On her website, Clark says, “She promises to build a ward we can all be proud to call home. Her plan leverages the community assets that currently exist and provides the framework to create new opportunities for growth. Lack of funding has been used as a talking point against change for far too long, which is why Ayana will donate 20% of her salary back to the community to fund projects across the ward. She firmly believes that by implementing the policies in her platform, the 21st Ward will thrive in the future.” Her public safety plan includes creating a “fully funded community that reopens mental health facilities, collaborates with City Council to create yearround youth employment, and targeting abandoned homes and lots that serve as conduits for crime.”

According to his website, Preston Brown, Jr. says his public safety plan includes creating local legislation to provide incentives to hire new officers and working to recruit 21st Ward residents to fill open police positions. He also says, he will Proactively survey the Ward to fix looming issues before they get out of control and will work to increase the amenities that residents want to see in the 21st Ward.

Endorsed by the Fraternal Order of Police, Daliah Goree does not have her plans for the 21st ward immediately available on her website.

*Chicago News Weekly sent questionnaires to each candidate offering them an opportunity to let the public know more about their plans for the 21st Ward. Of the seven candidates only three responded to CNW’s request. Cornell Dantzler, Larry Lloyd and Kweli Kwaza. *

What are the most pressing issues facing the 21st Ward?

Cornell Dantzler: Public safety is affecting all of us. So, I definitely want to deal with the public safety issue. Second, on the list is economic development. We have so many closed businesses that are just sitting dormant with nothing going on. I also want to do a major cleanup project in this ward so that we can attract businesses and get back to functioning as a normal Ward should.

Larry Lloyd: The most pressing issue facing the ward is economic disinvestment with crime being a close second. I would say from speaking with residents, the lack of transparency and accountability from current leadership is at the top of the list as well.

Kweli Kwaza: Lack of resources (money), safety and infrastructure issues (led pipes, poor drainage causing basement flooding, broken sidewalks, and potholes in streets).

What strategies do you have for reducing crime and increasing public safety?

Cornell Dantzler: First, I have a mentor program that I’ve been doing for 40 years. It’s been very productive in helping to reduce some of the crime in the community. I want to continue that. Secondly, I have expungement programs in the community. We have to make sure that we have jobs for these young people to go to. You cannot have more business opportunities without improving public safety. We have to make sure we put people to work.

Larry Lloyd: As it relates to crime reduction and public safety, we cannot police our way out of this. However, I believe there needs to be a holistic approach to resolving crime in this city and our ward. It will take a monumental effort on the part of the residents of areas hard hit by violence as well as the city, to address the lack of resources, high unemployment, school inequities, poor housing, and poor healthcare choices, to begin to combat gun violence. Further, there needs to be a sincere effort to implement sufficient and effective community programming to deal with trauma and other mental health issues that have long remained unaddressed in our communities for far too long.

Kweli Kwaza: My strategy is borrowed from the latest technology for fighting crime in other cities successful at reducing crime significantly. That is the use of community-operated drones. After getting the ban lifted on the use of drones in Chicago, I would employ a community organization to get the needed drone license and operate the drone security force. This way they can even capture the police if they are doing illegal activities.

How do you plan to create more jobs and economic opportunities in the 21st Ward?

Cornell Dantzler: If you don’t give the kids something to do, we know that they create their own activities, which are not always the best. As it pertains to jobs, I believe that there’s a lot of availability for work for our young people and I’m going to incorporate a program that’s going to hire the young people to help

us clean up this ward. Our ward should look just as good as the 19th Ward. We deserve better and I’m going to work to make sure that that happens because the people in the 21st ward deserve better than what they’ve been getting. I’m going to be all-inclusive, to help anybody who wants to work or who wants to help our community to thrive.

Larry Lloyd: As it relates to jobs and economic growth, The key to a thriving ward starts with taking into consideration the uniqueness of every community during the decision-making process on matters related to zoning changes, creating TIFs, redevelopment projects, employment centers, etc. which is why I would first create advisory councils for each of these communities. These councils will be comprised of members from the community who will provide an assessment on where things stand, get community input, conduct research, and seek guidance from experts on not just economic, neighborhood and workforce development issues but also on public safety, infrastructure, seniors, schools, youth, and parks.

Kweli Kwaza: I plan to get our community ready for the $4 Billion Red Line Extension Project as well as the Roseland Hospital District. In addition, we will spur more businesses to our ward by cutting down on crime. For high school youth, I want to find money to create after-school jobs, similar to the old CEDA jobs. What efforts will you make to support families and youth?

Larry Lloyd: As to support for families and youth, as mentioned above, having wrap-around services such as quality health care, access to therapists and mental health professionals as well as offering services for families in need or on the brink of homelessness. As I said, without a strong investment in families, the ward cannot thrive, and the ideas above are just the start. Funding violence prevention plans, using shuttered schools for training and job readiness and other programs, will give our children and families the services they deserve.

Kweli Kwaza: I want to build an amusement theme park area for youth and families; like the old Fun Town that was on 95th & Stoney Ave. Plus, I want to utilize the abandoned properties in the ward to teach our youth the trades (electrical, plumbing, and carpentry).

From L to R: Cornell Dantzler, Ayana Clark, Kweli Kwaza, Ronnie Mosely Larry Lloyd, Daliah Goree and Preston Brown, Jr.

24th Ward AlderPerson Monque Scott

From City Government royalty Monique Scott, stepped into the Alderperson position, appointed by Mayor Lightfoot to assume the seat previously held by her brother former 24th ward Alderman Michael Scott, Jr. Monique’s parents, the late Michael Scott Sr. and Millicent Scott were both prominent in the city of Chicago. Living under their guidance and example impressed upon her the commitment and diligence of what strong leaders do.

Monique may not have taken on her aldermanic responsibilities as a seasoned politician. . . but she came prepared, politics is in her DNA. She spent her life and career developing relationships with residents in the community. Growing up in Lawndale fed her passion and developed insight into the community’s needs gaining a comprehensive understanding

of North Lawndale’s challenges and opportunities that made her the best choice for the job.

Actions

Upon taking office Alderperson Scott served as a park supervisor for the Chicago Park District, where improved public facilities and managed a team of employees who demonstrated that the residents of the community were a priority. While at the Park District, Monique engaged residents and created community-building programming. The Alderperson has demonstrated her commitment to building a successful community.

Major Concerns Monique has pledged to continue to implement the same programs and engage residents, in order for her to create a safe space in the community where residents can feel comfortable, supported, and heard. Her top priority for the 24th

Ward is to establish a solid foundation centered around several goals:

1. Ushering in economic development and investments

2. Affordable housing options to market rate

3. Reduce vacant lots and abandoned storefronts.

4. Work to improve the “food desert” in North Lawndale where access to grocery stores and healthy food is scarce or nonexistent.

5. Improve access to local jobs.

Alderperson Scott believes that the residents of the 24th Ward deserve someone who has an extensive understanding of the community, and the resourcefulness to pursue the best outcome for a community she is dedicated and committed to its socio-economical and financial growth and development.

28th Ward AlderPerson Jason Ervin’s Opponent is Back in Race

CNW Staff Report

Alderman Jason C. Ervin has served the 28th Ward since he was appointed by then-Mayor Richard M. Daley Alderman in January 2011 and elected to a full term by the people of the 28th Ward in February 2011.

Public Administration from Governor’s State University.

Prior to his seat at the Chicago City Council table as Alderperson, Ervin served on the Local School Council at Tilton Elementary School and Westinghouse Career Academy. With a Master’s in Public Administration from Governor’s State University, he is committed to improving education and creating better schools to provide a strong liberal arts foundation which is essential for students to meet and take advantage of the best opportunities that are offered them. This helps to build, to stabilize, and to advance communities.

Ald. Ervin is dedicated to public service and empowering communities through social change and political organizing. In his position as Village Manager of the Village of Maywood, he implemented changes that made government run more efficiently and better for residents. This focused application to help his communities evolve and implemented on Chicago’s West Side to make government work for the people.

Ald. Ervin sees a sense of urgency needed in the areas of Economic Development, and safety for children and working families as his top priorities. This is reflected in his legislative agenda with introducing and voting on ordinances that expand economic opportunities for

working families and reduce crime on city streets. Currently, Ald. Ervin serves on eight committees: Human Relations, Vice Chair; Budget and Government Operations; Finance; Economic Capital & Technology Development; Education and Child Development; Pedestrian and Traffic Safety; Transportation and Committees; Rules and Ethics.

The Illinois Appellate Court ruled Friday that Shawn Walker has more than enough valid signatures to run for alderperson and his name should be put back on the ballot, according to court documents.

The ruling means incumbent Ald. Jason Ervin (28th) is no longer running unopposed.

SIDEBAR: Voters who live in the 28th Ward won’t be able to pick up ballots until they can be reprinted to include Walker, who was originally kicked off the ballot because election authorities determined he didn’t submit enough signatures to run. The change could delay early voting in all 50 wards Monday. The election board will make its final determination this week

Reached out to Shawn Walker, but it was too close to our press run to speak with him directly and there was no website to browse. Shawn Walker, who is also running for 28th Ward alderman.

*Interestingly, the Tribune endorsed Shawn Walker, a construction consultant and community activist. Our question is . . based on what?

Ald. Greg Mitchell Runs Unopposed in the 7th Ward

CNW Staff Report

The 7th ward covers parts of South Shore South Chicago, Calumet Heights, and South Deering. Ald. Greg Mitchell is running unopposed after two of his challengers were removed from the ballot. Greg Mitchell was elected Alderman of the Seventh Ward of Chicago in 2015. He sits on seven committees in the city council, including the Housing and Real Estate committees, Budget and Government Operations, and Public Safety.

Ald. Greg Mitchell has accomplished several major projects and realized many aspects of his campaign platform creating the foundation to complete his goal of “Building a Better 7th.” According to his website, Ald. Mitchell re-established the connection between the 7th Ward and City Hall, resulting in over $60,000,000 in infrastructure improvement in his community. Greg Mitchell has leveraged other city departments to improve his resident’s quality of life. His successful partnership with the Office of Business Affairs and Consumer Protection has helped Alderman Mitchell close several problematic businesses that were facilitating crime in the community. His work directly with the Mayor’s Office brought the Retail Thrive Zone program to his commercial corridor on 79th St. This valuable program, which Greg co-sponsored, will pro-

vide thousands of dollars to new and current businesses to revitalize abandoned storefronts and bring new life to 79th St.

Alderman Mitchell ushered in a new level of customer service to the 7th Ward by establishing the 7th Ward Service Center. The 7th Ward Service Center responds to hundreds of requests from 7th Ward residents daily. From tree trimmings to snow removal; street light repair to vacant lot cleanups; Alderman Mitchell uses his resources to ensure 7th Ward residents experience a higher quality of life. In his first term, Alderman Mitchell successfully closed out over 90% of all service requests received. In addition, he increased and improved the flow of information to residents by spearheading a modern communications strategy that integrates email, social media, direct outreach, and a well-maintained website. This integrated marketing approach results in over 10,000 7th Ward residents receiving important updates about city services, job opportunities, and community updates each week.

Alderman Greg Mitchell promised the 7th Ward to be a responsible and respectable representative of the community he comes from. In this regard, Mitchell has earned top marks by maintaining one of the highest attendance rates in City Council and committee meet-

ings. Greg also takes the time to be available to residents by attending weekly constituent nights, hosting quarterly town halls, and being a consistent figure in community organizations.

Alderman Mitchell says his priorities are to ensure safer streets, quality schools, and economic development for the 7th Ward.

Alderman Chris Taliaferro Faces Two Challengers for 29th Ward City Council Seat

Alderman Chris Taliaferro will face two challengers for his seat in the February 2023 municipal elections. The 29th ward covers parts of Austin, Mont Clare and Belmont Cragin and is bordered by Oak Park and Elmwood Park to the west. Ald. Taliaferro has served the 29th ward since 2015. As a member of Chicago’s city council, he has served on the Public Safety, Transportation, Traffic Safety, Human Relations, License and Consumer Protections and Rules and Ethics committees. Taliaferro says he’s running for reelection to “continue to seek to provide economic opportunities for the residents and improve the quality of life for ward residents and continue to increase mental health education and treatment over the next four years.” Ald. Taliaferro says public safety remains a top priority for the 29th ward. In a WTTW questionnaire, the former Chicago Police Sergeant says, “I have represented the residents of the 29th ward and city with integrity and a directed agenda to reduce violence in the 29th ward and economically develop the ward. We have been successful at both, with more than $250 million in current development producing jobs for residents and working with stakeholders and police to reduce violence in the ward. Violent crimes are down 33% in Austin, much of which lies within the 29th ward and 45% over a six-year period.” He says he would encour-

age the use of technology to reduce gun violence including gun recognition and detection technology. He also wants to incentivize communities with community-based grand programs to encourage engagement that are performance and goal based.

Corey Dooley

Corey Dooley is a community activist known as “Community” Corey. He is a manager for the Soul City project and if elected would become one of the youngest aldermen elected at age 25. A victim and survivor of gun violence, he was shot by his step-father in 2013 and given less than a 1% chance to live. He currently serves as a mentor in Chicago Public Schools and is an advocate for combating domestic violence.

In a Sun-Times/WBEZ questionnaire, Dooley says

“As an economic developer, young people ally, and public safety enthusiast, I am the only candidate who has been a grassroots organizer in the community, in our fight for small business, trauma-informed health care, equitable housing, and green jobs. As Alderman, I will bridge the community and build the economy to put the 29th Ward on the right track. I stand for the community, not privatized interest and systemic political influence. I will progress creative, resourceful solutions that engage in peacekeeping strategies, cross-network communication, and neighborhood revitalization.”

CB Johnson

Will the third time be a charm? Businessman CB Johnson hopes so. This is his 3rd time running for alderman of the 29th ward. Backed by Congressman Danny Davis, the businessman, and organizer says his priorities include increasing community engagement, addressing the fentanyl crisis, and increasing public safety.

CNW Staff Report

From Left to Right, Alderman Chris Taliaferro, CB Johnson, and Corey Dooley,

A Bird Eye View in Bud

Dr. Mila K. Marshall CNW Cannabis Corner Editor

Cannabis Corner gives a birds eye view on bud this week covering governor Pritzkers State of the State of and Budget address, new businesses, competition from legalizing states and social equity events.

State of Cannabis illinois

Pritzker announced Illinois has produced more than 30,000 new jobs since the 2020 legalization. He also proclaimed the state “is home to the nation’s most diverse cannabis industry” in his February 15th, State of the State and Budget Address. However, CNW previously reported in Cannabis Corner the dearth of diverse ownership and Black workers being overrepresented in part-time employment. Only 15% of Illinois cannabis workers are Black. Marijuana employees are also unionizing in Illinois. In a late January press release Teamsters 777 announced more cannabis workers organizing for “ better wages and benefits, seniority, a voice on the job, respect, and so much more” said Jim Glimco, Local 777 President. While the Governor was accurate about diversity, his statements about employment should be taken with a grain of salt. There is still much to do with regard to equitable hiring and ownership.

New beginnings and businesses to watch

The Chicago area is all abuzz with the grand opening of the Grasshopper Club in Logan Square, the state’s first independent Black dispensary. The Brewer family’s business is located at 2500 N. Milwaukee and has plans to open up a second location in the South Loop later this summer. A little over 230 miles south into West Central Illinois Kush21 located at 1112 Veterans Drive opened for business the first week of February. Owners Michale Beraki and Kenny Pleasant felt the community of Jacksonville, Illinois was an ideal location to expand their Seattle-based business as the area is not over-saturated with cannabis retail. CNW caught up with previous 5th ward hopeful Adrienne Irmer who is now shifting her attention to marijuana compliance. Irmer is looking forward to opening and operating the state’s first Black woman-owned cannabis testing lab. Her goal is to relieve some of the financial pressures of compliance on social equity growers and brands to provide affordable testing.

Should illinois be pressed about Missouri and Michigan?

Illinois gets about 30% of its cannabis purchases from out-of-state buyers. Missouri’s first few weeks of open-selling recreational cannabis are cause for Illinois to pause and reflect. Missouri now has the “cheapest legal weed” in the Midwest noted in Bezinga by Cantor Fitzgerald’s Pablo Zuanic. Lower prices in Missouri have industry analysts like Zuanic warning the Illinois market to keep a watchful eye on sales in southern Illinois BLS regions. While Illinois is bracing itself for a potential decline in sales businesses in neighboring Michigan are in steep competition with

each other. Grand Rapids, Michigan dispensary closures are early signs of the consequences of oversaturation. Decision makers in Grand Rapids decided to have an uncapped policy that doesn’t limit the number of cannabis dispensaries operating in city limits. Excess supply in the city has resulted in a number of cannabis retailers going out of business. Illinois’ steady pace appears to put companies out of business even before they open. Conditional licensing has a timeline. Entrepreneurs may get their licenses rescinded simply because they were unable to open their doors in the state-allotted time.

Currently, there is no state reciprocity for medical card holders to purchase medical marijuana. A regionalization approach and reciprocity could very well be a unique solution to protect social equity entrepreneurs in the Midwest market. As cannabis retailers close they leave vacancies and upgraded infrastructure making it easier for a new cannabis company to move into other industries.

illinois Social Equity Scammers

February 16th the Illinois Department of Federal and Professional Regulations released a memo encouraging participants applying to the Social Equity Criteria Lottery to be “vigilant” against scammers. Applicants are encouraged to protect their sensitive information from being accessed by partnership offers of unknown companies and persons. Technical assistance for applicants can be found at the Department of Commerce & Economic Opportunity. Applicants who believe they have been a victim of fraud or deception, are encouraged to reach out to the Illinois Attorney General.

Cannabis Calendar

Friday, February 24, 2023

Location: Virtual

Time: 1pm CST

Register: https://lnkd.in/gy4AJFAT

“The Urgency of Now in The Cannabis Landscape” is a Social Equity and Black History Month Livestream hosted by founders Kristi Price of Black CannaBiz Expo and John Bailey of Black Cannabis Equity Initiative. The event is free to attend and all are welcome to join an illuminating set of speakers in a range of equity-related discussions. Featured guest speakers come from municipal government, industry experts, social equity leaders and applicants from across the nation.

Arts & Culture

The Negro Motorist Green Book Exhibit Travels to the Illinois Holocaust Museum

Tammy Gibson CNW Staff Writer

The Negro Motorist Green Book exhibition is displayed at the Illinois Holocaust Museum and Education Center in Skokie, IL. The exhibition was developed by the Smithsonian Institution Traveling Exhibition Service (SITES) in collaboration with Candacy Taylor, an award-winning author, photographer, and cultural documentarian, and made possible with the support of Exxon Mobil Corporation. The exhibit has been traveling since 2020 and will travel through 2025.

The Negro Motorist Green Book, known as “The Green Book,” was published by Victor Hugo Green, a U.S. postal carrier from Harlem, NY. As more Blacks owned cars, they could not freely travel to places due to segregation and the fear of going to locations that were sundown towns where Black had to leave town before it got dark or face physical violence.

The first edition of the Green Book was published in 1936 that provided a safe haven for Black travelers to find restaurants, gas stations, motels, beaches, and private homes where they could feel safe and treated with dignity and respect. The last publication of the Green Book was in 1967.

The Negro Motorist Green Book exhibition features oral histories from Green Book business owners and travelers, photographs, film, and interactives. The exhibit highlighted Chicago businesses listed in the Green Book. The Green Book listed over 180 businesses, 80% in the Bronzeville District. The 1949 Green Book featured a seven-page article spotlighting Bronzeville that featured businesses, including Supreme Liberty Life Insurance Company, Mutual Assurance Company, and Metropolitan Funeral Parlor. Green called the businesses in Bronzeville “monuments to Negro business.”

Taylor, the author of Overground Railroad: The Green Book and the Roots of Black Travel in America, started the Green Book project in 2013. Taylor did not design the exhibition at the Holocaust Museum, but her most significant issue was to ensure that the Green Book story was comprehensive and that Blacks had more than just one story to tell, especially Black

women who owned businesses. “This was a time when women couldn’t even get a credit card or bank account. They were running businesses and were popular in the Green Book,” says Taylor.

Taylor says what she loved about the project was the field research being on the road. Taylor has made seven road trips and traveled to 48 out of the 50 states between six weeks to almost five months. Taylor has cataloged over 10,000 Green book sites. Taylor has

documented over 6,000 locations and photographed over 200 buildings. Less than 5% are still in business, and 80% are demolished. The Green Book editions are digitized and available online for viewing at the Schomburg Center for Research in Black Culture located in New York.

Taylor says when she saw the communities where the Green Book sites were once located, which were predominantly Black, she wanted her book to be more than just a directory of Blackowned businesses. “I had to bring the Green Book to the forefront of the discussion around race and inequality in terms of major government systems of racial control, such as redlining, urban renewal, and all of the scars that were left on our communities that were once saturated with thriving and vibrant Black-owned businesses,” says Taylor.

Arielle Weininger, Chief Curator of Collections and Exhibitions at the Illinois Holocaust Museum and Education Center, says the Negro Motorist Green Book exhibit was brought to the museum to educate about issues including social justice, human rights violations, and looking at the period of Jim Crow and segregation in the United States.

“I immediately contacted the Smithsonian and said we were interested in hosting the exhibition. It is a great exhibition to highlight not only the issues of segregation and the Jim Crow era but this amazingly creative, positive, and entrepreneurial response to what was happening in the United States at the time,” says Weininger.

The exhibit has received positive feedback. The Negro Motorist Green Book was the largest special exhibition opening the museum’s ever had. “People are interested in the history of the Green Book and are pleased with the presentation,” says Weininger.

The Negro Motorist Green Book exhibition at the Holocaust Museum runs through April 23, 2023. For more information, go to https://ihm.ec/greenboo

Arts & Culture

A Sweet Way to Raise Money for HIV/AIDS

For more than 36 years, AFC has led the fight to create health equity and justice for people living with and disproportionately impacted by HIV and AIDS. AFC brings together service providers and funders to develop systems that meet the needs of those living with HIV/AIDS and to maximize the use of scarce resources. AFC is committed to working with policymakers and service providers to increase funding for prevention services and programs that work.

After a nearly three-year hiatus, more than 1,000 guests gathered at Chicago’s famed Union Station (500 W. Jackson) for the highly-anticipated return of AIDS Foundation Chicago’s (AFC) World of Chocolate fundraiser on Friday, February 17. Attendees and supporters raised more than $250,000 to directly support the vital services AFC provides to thousands of Chicagoans annually guided by the mission to create equity and justice for people living with HIV or chronic conditions.

“We are overwhelmed by the support of our community in making the return of ‘World of Chocolate’ a smashing success,” said John Peller, AIDS Foundation Chicago President/CEO. “The overall trajectory of new HIV cases is really going in the right direction. Events like World of Chocolate help us continue to provide access to comprehensive services such as housing, food, transportation and case management—all of

which contribute to successful outcomes for those vulnerable to and living with HIV and moves us closer to zero transmissions by 2030.”

During the event, guests sampled chocolate creations crafted by 22 Chicagoland chocolatiers and confectioners, each ranging from sweet to savory to boozy, while dancing the night away to the tunes of DJ Moose. Seven local celebrities, food writers and chefs—Valerie Beck, Richard Dayhoff, Scott Duff,Candace Jordan, Paul Lisnek, Victoria LePinske and Art “Chat Daddy” Sims—judged the participating vendors in six categories; partygoers had their say, too, with the People’s Choice Award. Winners include:

Best Small Business: David Rubenstein Forum

Best Large Business: Ritz Carlton

Best Libation: JoJo’s Shake Bar

Best Savory: David Rubenstein Forum

Best Sweet: Amy’s Candy Bar

Best Sculpture: Chef Blaque – Black Rose Pastries

People’s Choice: Ritz Carlton

Event proceeds enable AFC to continue its efforts in the fight against HIV/AIDS, including:

• Bridging housing and health care systems to improve the lives of Chicagoans experiencing homelessness assisting

• Connecting more than 5,000 clients with case management services

• Training hundreds of medical professionals about the importance of prevention, such as PrEP—a HIV prevention medication

• Providing policy leadership in state and federal health equity matters

• Collaborating with partners across the state to achieve Getting to Zero Illinois, a state-wide initiative to end new HIV transmissions in Illinois by 2030

For more than 36 years, AFC has led the fight to create health equity and justice for people living with and disproportionately impacted by HIV and AIDS. AFC brings together service providers and funders to develop systems that meet the needs of those living with HIV/AIDS and to maximize the use of scarce resources. AFC is committed to working with policymakers and service providers to increase funding for prevention services and programs that work.

AFC mobilizes communities to create equity and justice for people living with and vulnerable to HIV or chronic conditions. AFC aspires to create a world in which people living with HIV or chronic conditions will thrive, and there will be no new HIV cases. For more information visit their website at https://www. aidschicago.org/.

Spring Fashioninto

C.L. Blackburn CNW Contributor

America, America, America the beautiful! One thing that we can count on is a holiday sale. Yep there’s always a promotion to sell that basement bargain sale and Presidents’ Day weekend is here, (extended from the 17th – 22nd) offering the perfect opportunity to recharge your pre-summer season wardrobe with transitional clothing and snag winter essentials you’ll rely on next year.

Shopping for spring in the Midwest can be a little tricky especially if you live in Chicago or Detroit, or Milwaukee, some of the coldest cities situated around the Great Lakes. Looking for the best fashion deals of the season takes a special skill because it remains cold until May in Chicago. At least!

Labels that have the most noteworthy Presidents’ Day sales on clothing, shoes, and accessories happening this February include deep discounts on designer handbags and dresses at Farfetch, Ssense, and Net-a-Porter to limited-time deals on loungewear and workout clothes from Alo, Adidas, and Lululemon. Look for their promotions and check them out. You just make strike the bargain piece you’ve been looking for.

Favorites like cool Nike sneakers, trendsetting Jacquemus dresses, and everyday Levi’s jeans can be your go-to clothing items that make the backbone of your spring fashionable look to create a timeless wardrobe of staples and top spring trends.