July 12, 2023 Edition

Tall & Tan, Grown & Grounded

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Vol. 1 No 36

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s interesting . . . the different views regarding racism.

I ‘ve been thinking about this because somehow so many things lead us there. It can be a word, a glance or the intentional communication meant to shame you. A few years ago in a group sensitivity session, the participants made up of Black, brown, white yellow and red people were asked by the group leaders to share a moment where race impacted you. I immediately thought of the evening I was babysitting for my across the street Anglo-Saxon protestant neighbors. The blond, blue eyed husband worked for USA Shoe Company and his wife was a stay at home wife/mother. They had three children two sons and a daughter. The big pet thing back then was owning a Siamese cat and a Weimaraner dog. So, they were in the mix with that. Anyway, the eldest boy was being a boy agitating the dog to chase the cat and the cat ended up knocking over and breaking a vase. I ordered Johnny to excuse himself and to retire for bed early. He called me the ‘N’ word. I was so surprised at how it stung me. I had never been called that prior to that moment.

The other two children and I continued our normal routine, they were served a treat, I read them a story, and ran their bath and finally put them to bed and turned off the lights. I returned downstairs and completed my homework. The parents returned around 10:30 pm. As they waked through the door, a very awake Lori came running down the stairs shouting, “Mommy, Daddy, Johnny called Kai a nigger and you told us to never say nigger in front of niggers.”

If I had had a cell phone then, I would have captured the red on their faces, which was deeper than the Scarlet Letter. Both were aghast. I was once again shocked. That word has power.

These people who entrusted me with the care of their children could hardly talk. It was Mr. X., who broke the silence. He said, “Lori that is not what we said, you have mistakenly stated our communication incorrectly.” His wife

was looking at me horrified, and said, “I am, we are so sorry.”

Bais, Prejudice, Bigotry. . . Racism It’

I pretended, that it was alright. It was not. They paid me and apologized again. They even gave me more than my usual payment.

My father was waiting up for me, so I told him what had happened just as I’ve shared with you. So, man that he was, looked at me and said, ‘come here.’ He put his arms around me and said, “I know that this has hurt you, but why are you surprised?” which I found to be a stupid question. It took everything in me to not say, “Seriously daddy? “What I said was, “Because I thought they liked me.”

He responded, “They do like you; they trust you with their children. And Mr. X most likely told the truth. They probably said, “Never say nigger to a negro; But you can see how an angry little boy could make it into something hurtful. He knew what he was doing. You told him to go to bed early when he had just been doing boy stuff. And Lori just said it the way she heard it. Now they may have had deeper conversations still it left her with the conclusion that Negros are niggers, but you just don’t say it around them.”

I couldn’t believe my father. He was so cool, so nonchalant about something I found very disconcerting and quite frankly insulting. I remained quiet and that’s when I received my first lesson on racism and the various distinctions.

He explained that racism when discussed towards a group is used to identify how one group usurps its power to determine and impact a different group identified by race’s social, economic, and political progress and station in society. ‘Ummm, I thought. And never forgot. He explained the following:

1. Bigot: a person who is obstinately or unreasonably attached to a belief,

Editor-in-Chief

opinion, or faction, especially one who is prejudiced against or antagonistic toward a person or people on the basis of their membership of a particular group. (Bigotry) is the description of this act.

2. Prejudice: preconceived opinion that is not based on reason or actual experience.

“prejudice against people from different backgrounds”

3. Bias: prejudice in favor of or against one thing, person, or group compared with another, usually in a way considered to be unfair.

4. Racist: a Biological classification belief that race is the primary determinant of human traits and capacities and that racial differences produce an inherent superiority of a particular race. Racist: A person who subscribes to the beliefs of racism.

He said, “As a society, not all white Americans are racists, but most benefit from the systemic bias that is based on racism. And if they do nothing to change that, then they are a part of the problem because their silence helps to perpetuate racism.”

In conclusion, he said, “Look, I can take any of those positions, prejudice, bias, bigotry, and not impact any group’s destiny in life. I can even be a racist individual, but my racism remains powerless as if I were simply bias. Each would be my personal stance unable to affect other groups’ social or economic favor or lack of. Whereas white America can do exactly that and does.” Am I clear?”

Kai EL’ Zabar

photo cred -

it: Dot Ward

Bad Affirmative Action Decision Won’t Stop Equal Rights Progress

Dr. Gail C. Christopher NNPA Newswire Contributor

Thedecision by the U.S. Supreme Court to end affirmative action in higher education is much more than just a bad ruling; this is an embarrassment on a global scale.

It’s based on the misguided notion that the Constitution, and even our society today, is colorblind. That’s so far from the truth. In reality, what we have is a judicial authority that is in denial; denial of racism, denial of facts, denial of the consequences of this decision, denial of the harm to the people affected, and denial of the hierarchy of human value that this nation was built upon and still reigns supreme in too many minds and institutions today.

Writing for the majority, Chief Justice John Roberts concluded that the approach used by Harvard University and the University of North Carolina violated the 14th Amendment and “cannot be reconciled with the guarantees of the Equal Protection Clause.” That is duplicitous – that clause was designed to remedy the harm caused by denying rights and protection to people of color over centuries. For this court to use it to deny educational opportunities to people of color in the 21st century is hy-

pocrisy at best and cruel at worst. Their decision lacks empathy and compassion for millions.

Our Constitution was conceived in an environment of racial hierarchy. It was dedicated to the proposition that some people were not human. Blacks could be enslaved and had no human rights. During the 1787 United States Constitutional Convention, the infamous Three-fifths Compromise relegated enslaved people to be counted as 3-5ths of Whites in a state’s population. That created an inequitable and unfair American society. Harvard Professor Roland G. Fryer, Jr. has quantified the consequences. Relative to Whites, Blacks earn 24% less, live five fewer years, and are six times more likely to be incarcerated on a given day.

Hispanics make 25% less than Whites and are three times more likely to be incarcerated. At the end of the 1990s, there were one-third more Black men under the corrections system’s jurisdiction than those enrolled in colleges or universities. Despite improvement by Blacks and Hispanics, there remain stark differences in access to quality education and opportunity that education affords. In a recent NCHE paper, Susan Eaton, Director of the Sillerman Center for the Advance-

ment of Philanthropy at the Heller School for Social Policy at Brandeis University, cited the racial disparity in poverty nationwide. About 24% of Native Americans, 20% of Blacks, and 17% of Latinos live in high-poverty neighborhoods compared to just 4 % of Whites. Disparities in schools are even more extreme, with 74% of Black and Latinos, 70% of Native Americans, and just 32 % of Whites attending schools where at least half of the students qualify for free and reduced lunches.

Clearly, American society remains far from a colorblind state where equity and equality are spread across all communities, rich and poor, Black, White, and Brown. It’s astounding that the Supreme Court chose to ignore centuries of racism that has created a society where Blacks, Native Americans, and other people of color are forced to confront bias daily in their everyday life, at school, at work, at play, and in their communities.

But there is hope for America. This Supreme Court is not a reflection of the people. This Court represents the opinions of a minority of our population.

That has been demonstrated by the political uprising after the Court’s rejection of a woman’s right to her own reproductive decisions. We may see a similar

reaction to this Court decision limiting access to the nation’s top educational institutions to people qualified to attend but have faced discrimination because of their skin color every day since birth. NCHE has conducted research, which will soon be released, demonstrating that the American people want to put racism and political divisiveness behind us and move forward to create equitable communities.

America made tremendous progress after the murder of George Floyd. A watershed of honesty and sincerity opened up to address the realities of police brutality and the legacy of denial of humanity. Anytime there is a moment creating a seismic wave in society, one representing a transformation from the norm, there will be resistance. In this case, the opposition has a high level of authority and power, but it contradicts the minds and hearts of the majority of America. The march towards an equitable society will continue.

Dr. Gail C. Christopher is the Executive Director of the National Collaborative for Health Equity, Senior Scholar at the Center for Advancement of Well-Being at George Mason University, and former Senior Advisor and Vice President of the W. K. Kellogg Foundation.

Unlock Your Productive Potential with AVOID Dollars & Sense

Have you ever been overwhelmed by the sheer volume of tasks and responsibilities vying for your attention? In today’s fastpaced world, effective time management is essential for achieving personal and professional success. Thankfully, the AVOID method provides a comprehensive framework to help you unlock your productivity potential and control your time.

When you can apply the principle of AVOID, meaning: Activate, Visualize, Optimize, Ignite, and Discipline, you optimize your time utilization, reduce stress and achieve a better work-life balance. Whether you are a business owner, entrepreneur, or career individual, mastering time management that unlocks your productive potential is vital to your success and life.

The first step is to “Activate” your focus by creating an environment that minimizes distractions. For me, a distraction is often a cluttered, unorganized working space. Clutter can create decision fatigue, making it harder to make choices or decisions effectively. To start, create a dedicat-

By Dr. Sanja Rickette Stinson CNW Columnist

ed workspace free from interruption and establish boundaries to protect your time.

The second step is “Visualizing” your daily and weekly goals. Creating a clear roadmap for success is a crucial step in mastering time management which helps you gain clarity on what truly matters and moves you to set meaningful priorities. When you get a visional picture of your goals and create a structured plan, it allows you to navigate through daily tasks with purpose and intentions.

Third, Optimization starts with identifying areas where you can streamline processes, eliminating time-wasting activities, and leveraging tools and techniques that enhance our effectiveness. Optimizing involves leveraging technology and seeking the opportunity to collaborate.

Fourth, “Ignite. “When mastering time management geared to unlock your productive potential, “ignite” highlights the importance of motivation and overcoming procrastination in effective time management. Seek accountability through support systems or productivity tools that can provide the necessary encouragement that push you to stay on track.

Fifth, “Discipline” is crucial in effective time management within the AVOID

framework. Discipline helps us to resist the allure of distraction and temptations that may divert us from our intended task. Discipline requires saying no to non-essential activities, setting boundaries, and making conscious choices aligned with your goals.

When I think of time management using AVOID framework, I reflect on a specific bible lesson in Proverbs 6:6-7. Ants demonstrate a sense of activation and are diligent in their work and proactive without being told what to do. Ants are known for their ability to plan and visualize, gathering food during the abundant time to prepare for the leaner seasons. Ants can optimize using available time and resources to their advantage by implementing strategies to maximize their productivity. Ants work consistently and persistently, not succumbing to distractions. Finally, Ants are disciplined, diligently carrying out their responsibilities without supervision or external enforcement.

In conclusion, wise leaders know that time is limited, and they cannot retrieve misused or wasted time. Mastering time management through the AVOID framework provides a powerful toolkit for optimizing productivity and achieving success.

When we can activate our focus and ener-

gy, visualize our goals, optimize our time and efficiency, ignite our motivation, and cultivate discipline, we can take control of our time and make the most of each day. Proverbs reminds us of the diligence and wisdom we can learn from ants, further reinforcing the principle of the AVOID framework.

Ultimately, by implementing the AVOID principle in our time management practices, we unlock our productivity potential, reduce stress and create a harmonious lifestyle balance. Start today, embrace the AVOID method, and embark on a transformative journey toward adequate time mastery and a more fulfilling life.

Dr. Sanja Rickette Stinson is an author, visionary entrepreneur, a nonprofit CEO. Her passion is to assist individuals in moving their vision from napkin to action, from action to reality, from reality to success, from success to purpose, and from purpose to creating a legacy for future generations. Follow her at www. drsanja.com

Hyde Park Welcomes Sneakerville 88 James Denman, Jr.’s Slam Dunk Success

By Mila K Marshall, PhD CNW Staff Editor

Kicks are for the culture and if you’re looking for this season’s hottest “One’s” Sneakerville 88 in Hyde Park’s Harper Court is clutch for sure. Owner and local business mogul James Denman, Jr is setting up the culture for success and has been waiting for the right moment to expand his brand into Hyde Park. “This is my second location and everything I’ve done has been in or near Bronzeville, this is a beautiful area and I’ve always wanted to come here. I love the diversity here and would come here often growing up to see the show across the street, so when the opportunity presented itself I took it” said the Englewood native whose flagship store is located at 112 E. 35th Street.

Fly kicks are a shared language no matter the age and this new endeavor is not only an intergenerational one, it’s a family affair.

The Hyde Park location was a gift to Jamee, Denman’s 28 year old daughter, “I’m giving her a headstart in life and an opportunity to get into a business that she enjoys,” said Denman. The father daughter duo also own Harold’s Chicken and Sports Bar and another right next door to the Bronzeville sneaker store. The new business makes 4 brick and mortar stores, and the new Hyde Park store kicked off opening day welcoming nearly 100 people including Ald. Lamont Robinson (4th Ward), Ald. Stephanie Coleman (1st Ward) and local NBA legend Mark Aguire. “It was a great first day,” shared Denman who later hosted shoppers and supporters to a light celebration in the later hours of the opening. Danisha and Durell J. were just passing by when they saw the grand opening sign and popped in. “He is such a sneaker addict,” said Danisha playfully, “I’ll call him a sneakerhead to make it sound better, but he’s bought three pairs

of shoes just in the last 2 weeks.” Durell has no problem being labeled an addict and shares, “I love colors and matching my outfit, I like to look good,” he said.

Denman’s vision is to serve the community and bring opportunity and is most excited to hire people and give them jobs. “One of the main reasons I started these businesses is to hire, I live to give to people and employment is paramount,” shared Denman. At the moment his businesses provide 25 full time positions. He attributes his business acumen in some part to his mother who was a postal worker that instilled in him the desire to broaden

himself outside of the norm. His years being educated at Curie High School gave him the chance to connect with peers from different backgrounds and undoubtedly has benefited his success to date along with hard work, honesty and great customer service. Denman believes “customer service is the most important part of owning a business, you can have a good product but if you can’t treat people well and right you’re not going to win in any business,” he said.

As the buzz from the grand opening quiets, James has his sights set on unique partnerships and novel ways of using the space. “People have asked me about podcasts here in the space and I plan on carrying other Black clothing brands like I do products from the community at my Harold’s on S. Michigan, I’m open to exploring everything,” shared Denman. Besides his current stores he is invested in the cannabis sector and even bottled water. When asked what his ultimate goal was he crossed his hands, smiled and said, “my goal is generational wealth.”

Top Photo James Denman’s (pictured right) vision is to serve the community and bring opportunity and is most excited to hire people and give them jobs.

Photo 2

Sneakerville 88 has opened its second location in Hyde Park’s Harper Square.

Mayor Johnson Turns Over Chicago School Board, Keeps One Member, Replaces Six

Mayo R B R andon Johnson

cleaned house with his announcement of six new appointees to the Chicago Board of Education. The appointments are new Board President Jianan Shi, and Board members Mariela Estrada, Mary Fahey Hughes, Rudy Lozano, Michelle Morales, and Tanya Woods. Today’s appointees join current Board member Elizabeth Todd-Breland, who will now serve as vice president.

The names announced for the term beginning July 18 mark the last mayoral appointees before the transition to an elected representative school board begins in 2024.

“It’s my honor to bring together such a diverse group of people from community, business, philanthropy, and elsewhere to collaborate around a vision for our schools that ensures every student has access to a fully resourced, supportive, and nurturing learning environment,” said Mayor Brandon Johnson. “These are CPS parents, just as I am, and education champions dedicated to creating learning environments that support our children in the classroom and beyond. I am excited to get to work with them in building the school communities that our students and families deserve.”

Under this Board, the administration anticipates the creation of a Special Education Advisory Committee to help ensure the district has input from local leaders and experts as they look for new leadership and strengthen services and supports for students with disabilities.

The new School Board Members appointed are: Jianan shi, President

Jianan Shi has served as Executive Director of Raise Your Hand for Illinois Public Education since 2019. .

Elizabeth Todd-Breland, Vice President

Elizabeth Todd-Breland is being reappointed to the Board of Education and will serve as Vice President. She is an Associate Professor in the History Department and affiliated faculty in the Black Studies Department at the University of Illinois at Chicago.

Mariela Estrada, Board Member

Mariela Estrada is the Director of Community Engagement at the United Way of Metro Chicago.

Mary Fahey hughes, Board Member

Mary Fahey Hughes is a manager, actor, and advocate for special education.

Rudy Lozano, Board Member

Rudy Lozano is an Executive Director with Global Philanthropy at JPMorgan Chase & Co. He is the Head of The Fellowship Initiative.

Michelle Morales, Board Member

Michelle Morales is the President of the Woods Fund Chicago.

Tanya d. Woods, Board Member

Tanya D. Woods is the Executive Director of the Westside Justice Center, a non-profit holistic legal aid clinic in East Garfield Park. She is also the principal of her law practice and a certified Mediator and Trainer at the Center for Conflict Resolution.

Photo: CPS CEO Pedro Martinez (left) and Mayor Brandon Johnson (right) released the first school budgets under the new mayoral administration Tuesday. Most schools saw gains.

Photo courtesy of Anthony Vazquez / Chicago Sun-Times

Wild Weather & State Property

By Mila K Marshall, PhD CNW Staff Editor

Chicago was choking on the smoke from Canadian wildfires, which got the entire city’s attention. The inescapable fog pushed those with respiratory issues indoors while exposing the fragility of Chicago’s economy to environmental threats. Days after the smoke cleared from atop sun bleached blades of grass, the rain began. The water was a welcomed relief to dry weather that had been scorching lawns for weeks. So fast did the rain fall that it overwhelmed sewage infrastructure resulting in flooded streets, homes, the reversal of the Chicago River and the release of combined stormwater and sewage to area waterways. Those instances back-to-back warranted a number of press releases and advisories issued by City Hall and other agencies such as the Metropolitan Water Reclamation District. As we enter deeper into the throes of the season…changes in our weather are showing just how urgent a reality preparedness is for Black Chicago.

Heat Watch 2023

A series of training and films have been

helping Chicagoans prepare for unprecedented heat events. The team of resident scientists here in Chicago and 17 other communities across the nation are measuring temperatures to help local decision makers understand how to develop the best heat solution strategies. Lack of trees, buildings, air flow, humidity and traffic congestion all contribute to a city’s unique heat signature. Volunteers were trained in June with the month of July being the time in which volunteers are deployed across the city to collect relevant data. For more information on the program, cooling center locations and film screening of “Cooked” visit Chicago Department of Public Health’s page on the www.chicago.gov website.

Some facts about urban flooding

Flooding events are a result of increased rainfall over short amounts of time. The agency charged with managing Chicago’s stormwater makes the decisions for how to reduce and prevent devastating urban flooding.

“During intense rains, the water enter-

ing storm drains overwhelms this combined system, leading to flooded streets, basement backups and the release of raw sewage into the region’s rivers and streams. Those releases are called combined sewer overflows and the polluted water has a devastating impact on the health of waterways and their ecosystems.” - MWRD

On July 2nd there was intense rain resulting in 29 CSO events according to the agency’s website and CSO synopsis as well as the re-reversal of the Chicago River to flow back into Lake Michigan, Chicago’s only source of drinking water. The re-reversal of the river occurred because the water in the river was higher than that of the lake. MWRD announced the reversal and the reasoning behind it.

“...when the Chicago area waterway levels are higher than Lake Michigan, only then can the MWRD open control structures to move as much water as possible out of the system. We cannot open the gates and lock before that time. There is NO MAGIC KEY OR BUTTON to use at will. Opening the gates and lock not only provide overbank flooding protection but they allow for more capacity for stormwater.” - MWRD

Severe flooding was recorded on the south and west sides of Chicago. Governor Pritzker recently declared Cook County a disaster area on July 11th opening the door for much needed federal monies, personnel and resources to homeowners, businesses and churches.

Per the MWRD website use the following resources to get alerts and stay connected: For notification of CSO and floodwater discharge events,

please go to MWRDGC’s website at http://geohub.mwrd.org/pages/cso.

Members of the public can sign up to receive e-mail and/or text notifications of CSO and floodwater discharge events by accessing the MWRDGC’s website at http://apps.mwrd.org/CSORegistration/Register.aspx.

If a discharge from a CSO during dry weather is observed, please call 311. Sentenced to a life of unclean water

CNW has been following the reports of unfortunate conditions for residents at some of the Illinois Department of Correction facilities. Fall of 2021 a group of advocates from NRDC, Coalition to Decarcerate Illinois, Equity Legal Services, Illinois Alliance for Reentry & Justice, Illinois Environmental Council, John Howard Association, Little Village Environmental Justice Organization, Sierra Club Illinois Chapter and Uptown People’s Law Center have been working furiously to bring to light the irresponsible and degrading conditions of water in Illinois prisons. In the most recent blog titled “Sentenced to Sickness: Dirty Water Persists in Vienna Prison” it states “IDOC’s water and sanitation infrastructure is neglected, deteriorating and cannot safely serve tens of thousands of imprisoned individuals.” According to the most recently published report FY22 Blacks made up 54.1% of imprisoned individuals, 95.3% are men and 42.6% were sentenced in Cook County. The report alleges that the Illinois Environmental Protection Agency has “done little to solicit and investigate the testimony of those closest to and most affected by the water.” The unnerving reports include statements of how employees and officers at the Vienna prison don’t drink the water and use bottled water from outside the facility. To read the expert blog in its entirety visit www.nrdc.org

Westside Health Authority Helps Austin Community with Vital Flood Relief Efforts

Rep La Shawn Ford Announces Illinois Department of Human Services Flood Relief in Austin

CNW Staff Report

Families with children:

Households with children under age 18 can apply for Crisis Assistance through their local IDHS Family Community Resource Center. The family needs to meet the financial and non-financial requirements for Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF), such as relationship to the child and income below the limit for the household size. Crisis Assistance can assist with rent, furniture, household supplies, clothing, food, lodging, and transportation. The payment levels are very low, but it could be helpful.

To be eligible for Crisis Assistance a family must be financially and non-financially eligible for TANF, meaning they must have a family member under age 18 in the home and be under the income TANF income limit for their household size. You do not have to be receiving TANF, just household, and income eligible.

Programs for Seniors:

IDHS’s partner -The Greater Chicago Food Depository (GCFD) is offering our commodity food program for low-income seniors in the Austin area and during the summer months, they are doing the Senior Farmer’s Market program. Our programs are pretty much limited to nutrition resources. GCFD has a network of distribution sites across

Chicago and Cook County areaa.

The Commodity Supplemental Food Program (CSFP) works to improve the health of low-income Illinois Seniors by supplementing their diets with nutritious foods by receiving regular USDA-donated food packages. Participants must be at least 60 years of age and reside in Illinois.

Eligible Seniors enrolled in the CSFP food package program will receive a variety of USDA-donated commodities that may include cereal, grits, powdered milk, pasta, evaporated milk, cheese, rice, canned meat, peanut butter, canned fruit, canned vegetables, fruit juice, dry beans, and oats.

In addition to receiving food packages, Seniors will be regularly informed about food and nutrition education encouraging the use of CSFP nutritious foods and promoting healthy eating lifestyles.

How

to Apply for CSFP

If you are an Illinois Senior 60 years of age or older and would like to apply for CSFP, contact the local CSFP food distribution agency that serves your county below.

Greater Chicago Food depository

Telephone: 773-247-3663

Email: olderadults@gcfd.org

Senior Farmer’s Market Nutrition Program (SFMNP) is a food and education assistance program for Seniors. It helps

Seniors eat well and stay healthy. Who can receive these services?

Seniors who are at least 60 years old and need better nutrition

Low-income requirements apply What services are offered?

Special checks to buy fresh, nutritious fruits, vegetables, and herbs from authorized farmers’ markets

Information about nutrition and health to help you eat well and be healthy

How to apply?

In Chicago, the Greater Chicago Food Depository will be distributing the Senior Farmer Market Nutrition Program (SFMNP) vouchers/checks.

IDHS’ Serve Illinois:

Serve Illinois is seeking volunteers: Please visit the “Get Connected” Galaxy Digital volunteer portal to sign up for community service

Photo: State Rep. La Shawn Ford, who represents the Austin neighborhood, says the people who had flooding in their homes need help and that the recent flooding has caused a public health crisis.

Photo courtesy of Fox 32 Chicago.

Tall & Tan, Grown & Grounded

Kai EL’ Zabar Editor-in-Chief

Foundation Building

Nikki Michele Zollar sits at her modern desk as Co-CEO of Safespeed LLC. in front of a portrait of her father. As she provides insight into her growth and development, it is clear she was raised on solid core values and was not only taught the importance of integrity but observed her parents as examples of what they instilled in her. She began sharing that she and her brother, Lowell named after their father, grew up in their family’s South Shore home where she then raised her 2 children and where she continues to live with her husband, Bill. She smiles and says, “Our home is full of good feelings, memories, positive emotions, family, community energy, and love.”

Interestingly, Nikki’s father attended medical school while she was growing up. She tells how she and her mother attempted to live with him in DC, where he attended Howard Medical school. She says, “But, he sent us home because he couldn’t concentrate.” Mother and daughter adapted and adjusted by calling him every night before retiring for bed. Nikki continued that ritual when her father was a resident intern at Cook County Hospital, and she’d even go to see him. “The staff would let me sleep on a cot in the emergency room area, because he had long 36 hours shifts then. And that was the only way I got to see him. My mother was a schoolteacher and tutored, to make extra money so that she could put my father through school.

Dr. Lowell Zollar opened a practice, when Nikki was nine. Soon after she started her first job at age 11 working in this office located at 71st and Jeffrey. She says, “And I’ve been working ever since.” It’s important to grasp what she said next, “My parents always had enough money to provide my brother and I everything we needed. There was never a time that we didn’t have food or roof over our heads.”

Sidebar— Nikki digressed for a second, “Look at age 15. I traveled through Europe, by myself. I met up with a group of teenagers from all over the world at Cluny Abbey, a former French Benedictine monastery which was at one time the world’s largest church and is acknowledged as the leader of western monasticism. “We joined the Cluny monks in pursuing our personal quest in our relationship with God. Through that I began to distinguish my ‘strong will’ from that of God’s will.”

“I paid for everything that I wanted outside of what my parents provided. The first dress I bought was in the win-

dow of Woolworth’s and it was a blue empire waist dress. I wore it to school almost every day. ”

Don’t worry the young Nikki washed her dress daily and quoted Stevie Wonder, “Clean clothes, but you’re wearing the same thing.”

Speaking as the woman she is today she continues ,“I’m not a clothes horse like my mother. And my father said, ‘You’re such a pretty girl. Do you have any other dresses?’ I answered yes and explained that I liked the dress but sensed that he didn’t feel good about me wearing the same dress. My father like me was not a dresser. However, he loved that my mother always looked good.”

Nikki describes her father as the greatest influence that fueled her entrepreneurial spirit. “I’ve started many different businesses, closed them, take a job, quit, start another business, close it, and get another job.” Nikki admits that it wasn’t until her 40s, when her maturity deemed her ready, did she open a janitorial company with a huge software component. “We bid on a job with the city and landed a $100 million dollar contract, the top of December of that year. We were to begin the job January 1st, but the responsibility came with 250 employees, all of whom needed to be paid by the second week of January.” The conundrum was how was she going to pay them, the first several months, of business.

The serendipity of having a great family, blessed her with the unconditional love. She begins her unfolding of the resolve with, “My father was literally dying of cancer. One day he was sitting in his office on the couch where he always sat, and my mom was there with him. My father expressed, “I’m really proud of you, referring to the contract. Of course, I said thank you, daddy.’ He continued, “It’s a big contract.”

“I responded yes, but I don’t know how I’m going to pay the employees; we haven’t even started.” My dad replied, “What’s the payroll?” “So, I told him, and he sat for a minute thinking, then he pointed to his lower desk drawer, said give me my checkbook. He then wrote me a check for the payroll, which wiped out every penny that he and my mother they had. Shocked with joy, she said, “Daddy, I don’t think I’ve ever seen a check this big. He laughed and said,

“Nor have I ever written one for that large amount.”

But Nikki as grateful as she was, had to say, “That covers one check, but I have the next payroll to meet and the one after that at least, before the company receives payment.” You could hear a pin drop because the silence was so loud explained Nikki. “Then my mother said, “Give her the houses Lowell, give her the houses,” which included a vacation home and the home in which they lived, both of which were paid for. Nikki recalls that her father looked at her and said, “I have two things to say, “One you always take care of your mother and always pay your employees. So, you better get started getting those mortgage payments.”

How kismet was that? Nikki completed the mortgage transactions and led her company to success. Dr. Zollar died shortly thereafter. As a footnote Nikki, says she honors her father’s faith in her and willingness without hesitation to give all that he had to contribute to her success. It was a huge deal she reflects, “Could I be a parent like that? And give my children everything that I own. Everything that I’ve ever worked for releasing the responsibility for someone to whom I had been married 50 years to my daughter? “That is why that man,” as she points to her father’s portrait behind her, “is a pillar of my success today. He’s my angel. “I use the wisdom that he imparted when I worked in his office. For example, he told me, “You must do two things; have a banker (who’s your best friend), and you must pay your employees.” Nikki notes, “Both of my parents believed in me.”

Their philosophy was the old adage,

‘To whom much is given, much is required.” My parents were very active in the civil rights movement. I grew up observing them actively participate in the advancement of our race. Our neighbors were the Jackson’s, so I grew up with their kids and participated in Operation Push, in fact my mother founded the Women’s Board of Operation PUSH, and served on The Women’s Board of the United Negro College Fund, And so much more.. My mother raised money to get everybody out of jail because the Civil Rights movement was a cause to be jailed back then. So, there were meetings held at our home all the time. Because of their activism . . . I always wanted to be in a movement..

PREPARTION

She was being prepared and honed to take on her future, which, unbeknownst to her would challenge her medal. Nikki did the work that helped catapult her to success. She graduated from Johns Hopkins University and Georgetown University Law Center. Soon after she began her career by clerking for the Honorable James B. Parsons, the first and only African American Chief Judge of the Northern District Court of Illinois. During that time, she met her husband of thirty-five years, William A. Von Hoene, Jr. Following her stint with Parsons, Nikki practiced law with the esteemed law firm of Lafontant, Jones & Ware specializing in proprietary rights. Soon after she and her husband began volunteering with the “Young Lawyers Committee to Elect Harold Washington for Mayor.” Bill ar-

Continue on page 13

CARMAGEDDON . . . the Love-Hate Relationship with Our Cars A Review

Kai EL’ Zabar Editor-in-Chief

Imet Daniel Knowles through a mutual friend at the Court Theatre, where we attended a play that we both thought was way too long after the essential point had been made. Like me, Daniel is a journalist currently residing in Chicago as the Midwest Correspondent for The Economist, where he writes about cities, transportation, and public policy. The recent publication of his book, “CARMAGEDDON, How Cars Make Life Worse and What To Do About It,” came of no surprise, since it covers what he researches and writes about it as a living. But what it does is inform.

And oh my, does it enlighten us about our beloved choice of transportation. I mean, who wants to be called on the carpet about their choice of their big gas consuming oversized car? The truth is, very few of us, I dare say understand to what length the automobile-- gas guzzling machine that it is, is so harmful to the world. The reality is that the darling, innovative wonder’s introduction to the future when it first emerged ending the horse and buggy era to the future we now live in was thought to be a most important invention of change for the future.

And it has remained so in the minds of most who have no idea how bad it has become and how it contributes to the toxic polluted fueled climate change and caused tens of millions of deaths and injuries. Scary? Well, that’s not even the half of it.

If you’re slow to get with Elon Musk’s electric car movement, stop hesitating. California has already put in motion its mandate requiring all CA drivers to have electric cars by x date. It’s real. Change is inevitable. Look ignorance is what it is but it is not bliss. Pretending that you didn’t read what I just shared will not change the truth.

What I really loved about the book is the style of his writing. It could very have been a novel, if he had chosen to do so. The flow of his accounting of history, including original reporting which takes us around the world grounded in the economics of all the dynamics that make up the impact of the car phenomenon is well done because of the lyrical quality and literary tone of his writing.

I’m telling you, that makes what could have been a very boring tell of organized facts and horrid reports of the terrible invention car the car. But it isn’t and thank God it’s not for those of us who really do

want to be informed.

You will be horrified how we have been hoodwinked into embracing cars as ‘wonderful’ when we discover how the costs and subsequent consequences may have just cost us our future as a planet. Cars? How can we live without them? The idea does not compute. This knowledge of the dangerous road we’re traveling in our cars has been an established realization for some time now, but the oil men can’t let it go. Damn, the detrimental consequences . . . The money is too good.

Knowles lives in Chicago and does not own a car, and nor do I, but I travel in them, he cycles or uses public transportation. Knowles advocates that we must put our ‘genius’ at work and create a better way to move from one place to the next for so many reasons. It’s not just about contaminated the air, but destroying the earth as well. We use so much land, constructing the roads and that impacts the natural habitat.

It’s a challenging notion given the con-

text of the current modern world in which we live, but if we take a moment and gaze through Knowles vision we might come to respect those who envision a world that is more conducive to the higher quality of life we deserve.

A Different Kind of Weapon of Choice

By Mila K Marshall, PhD CNW Staff Editor

“Big News Family!!!! My short film “At Their Feet” was selecting for the Silver Room Block Party Film Festival!” posted Natalie Battles. “It is up to us to share our stories,” Natalie ‘lifted up’ on her social media page. Her passion for film evolved from her first love of acting. After over a decades of experience in front of the camera, writing, directing, and producing, she welcomes the public to screen her very first film.

The Silver Room Block Party Film Fest is an opportunity for local visionaries and storytellers to showcase their work as part of the larger program this summer July 14th-15th. For some local filmmakers this will be the very first time they are showing their work ever. Joshua Johnson a graduate from Eisenhower High School is ready for his vision to come to life on the big screen. His film “Lead Never Follow” will be showing on July 15th.

“I’ve been a filmmaker for about 2 to 3 years,” said Johnson, “I was in the music industry and did marketing but always saw myself as a storyteller. Being a creative messenger, I began making documentaries to tell the stories of people who sometimes go unnoticed

and elevate their voices,” he continued. His film sheds light on local pioneers and leaders in different industries, specifically that of creatives such as himself. “My film opens the doors to who our pioneers are in fashion, art, and music. These are people who can be touched and seen,” said the filmmaker. Johnson saw the post for the May 12th submission and saw it as a perfect opportunity to join an esteemed cohort of creatives. A 2-day ticket give all access to workshops and more than 35 films. The film fest kicks off on the heels of Weapon of Choice, a filmmaking program for aspiring creatives who are activists ages 18 to 26 curated by Battles and Amandilo Cuzan. “When we look at that age group they are the most impacted by what is going on in the streets,” said Battles. This free experience introduces young adults to the power of producing with their smartphones, empowering them to use what they must tell the stories that impact them the most.

“Once you turn 18 there are not many resources, especially for free. Media has been used to control and manipulate the narratives in our community. We wish

to educate and empower young adult activists to tell the truth and not just allow the stories of what others want the public to see about us,” acknowledged Battles. The program is a partnership between the Community Film Workshop of Chicago and the Logan Center. Spots are still available and local young adult activists are encouraged to sign up and learn how to point and shoot with their cameras being their weapon of choice.

Natalie Battles photo by Amandilo Cuzan & Joshua Johnson photo by Sky

gued the historic “Punch 10” case. She practiced law at Kirkland & Ellis following the election of Harold Washington and was appointed to the Chicago Board of Election Commissioners, where she rose to the position of Chairman of the Board, which as she says, “Was huge for me . . . but it did not prepare me to be in business at all. It did cement my relationship with the community. Niki reminisces that “Many people have called me a lightning rod. And I think it’s because I stood for the truth. I did not bend.” She notes, “The Commissioner job is one of political power. There were forces and individuals who sought favors from her. And because she didn’t yield, they wanted her out.

When Mayor Washington died it became apparent that he had been her protector.

From Commissioner she went on to serve eight years in the cabinet of Governor Jim Edgar as the Director of the Department of Professional Regulation. She also served on the Chicago State University board.

Upon her departure from State Government, Nikki pursued those projects that led her to position as the President of Triad taking it from a traditional business consulting firm to a facilities man-

agement and janitorial company with just over 200 full-time employees. Then she branched out into another venture, and incorporated it in 2007 as Safespeed, an Intelligent Traffic Systems provider in response to an increased need for public safety on the roads and highways. The company has “Red Light” cameras throughout suburban Cook County and just over 60 employees. Success was continual and the growth of the company was better than expected when .

WHO KNEW

On September 26, 2019, federal agents fanned out across the southwest suburbs seizing records and interviewing people, regarding concerns that included Safespeed.

At the time Safespeed’s web site boasted that the company was a “proud partner of over 30 Illinois municipalities.”

And as Nikki reports, “business was about to double and suddenly we were in the news, which did not paint the whole story and certainly not the truth, not our story.” She goes on to say that “and just like that our new potential clients decided ‘Thanks but no thanks.”

A week after the breaking news, Nikki spoke to the Sun Times and stated, “There is no subpoena to Safespeed.” She also imparted that, “Our partner has run amok in some way.” She also made it

clear that she could state with certainty that her company operates above board, with integrity. She told the Sun Times, “We don’t pay people off,” she said. She also shared that her company is “trying to find out what we need to do to distance ourselves from him.” She continued in closing, “Nobody has contacted us, except you.”

Nikki exclaims, “ I found that the news reports and stories do not tell the whole truth. The news reporting got so bad that I began to feel akin to Trump’s position regarding “Fake News.” We reached out to tell our story, but our experience was what’s been said, if it wasn’t exciting, they weren’t interested. And that is not a great feeling when the picture being painted of you or your company doesn’t reflect you or your values.

Unfortunately, ‘celebrity’ sells as Niki can corroborate, “The reporter who jumped out of the bushes provided greater clarity. I told him, “My lawyer said, “Do not speak to the press. I’m the co-CEO of my company. And I know that you’ve spoken to the other side so why are you here? His answer was revealing, “Well, you sell newspapers, nobody’s heard of your partner.”

So, there it was, back to the money game and Nikki realized that she was fair game.”

The reporter Said, “Everybody just

wants to have a piece of the profit-- by adding you to the stories, pretty much guarantees that the article gets read.”

Prime example, Nikki says, “I saw that they a story published about a drug cartel added in the last paragraph of a long story that, ‘Safespeed has cameras in that community’.” Clearly Safespeed had nothing to do with that story.

IN CONCLUSION

It is published that Nikki’s said she believes a that, “a Safespeed ‘partner,’ businessman and developer Omar Mani, appears to be cooperating with the government, as do other sources familiar with the probe.

Her point, that news coverage failed to establish a distinction between ‘Safespeed the business as an independent entity from Mr. Manni, a partner in the company painted the business as corrupt, and all the wonderful people who come to work and do their jobs is not fair and unjust to us.

It was a challenging moment. In addition to the investigation the pandemic isolated us. We scaled down our staffing. Yet have continued as Safespeed has always been viable and good at what it does.

Moving forward Safespeed will continue to maintain its credibility.

Arts & Culture

Chicago Get Ready for Big Freedia Queen of Bounce Presents “The Femmergy”

The Millennium Park Summer Music Series

(Mondays and Thursdays, June 22 – August 21) featuring some of the biggest names in music including New Orleans’ Bounce Music’s favorite Big Freedia on Thursday, July 13.

Known as the largerthan-life ambassador of New Orleans Bounce music, Big Freedia is a nationally recognized hip-hop artist, TV personality and cultural influencer. Most recently she made headline news for her feature on Beyoncé’s Grammy-Award winning single, “Break My Soul,” released in 2022.

In addition to releasing her own critically acclaimed EPs, ‘3rd Ward Bounce’ (2018), ‘Louder’ (2020), and ‘Big Diva Energy’ (2021), Big Freedia, also known as the Queen of New Orleans Bounce, also appeared on numerous high profile projects, including Beyoncé’s Grammy award-winning, “Formation,” and on Drake’s “Nice For What,” where she brings her distinctive voice and signature catchphrases to all her work. Last year, she covered “Judas” on Lady Gaga’s Born this Way The Tenth Anniversary album (2021).

Big Freedia’s ascension in the music industry was chronicled over six seasons in the highly rated reality show, ‘Big Freedia Bounces Back’ from 2011-2016 on Fuse TV. Currently, she is filming a brand new series, ‘Big Freedia Means Business,’ chronicling Freedia’s triumphs in music, business and life that will debut in the summer of 2023 on Fuse.

Big Freedia is known for her infectious energy and personality. In 2019, she was the official host for the Met Gala IG Live Stream Red Carpet event and a host of 2021’s Dick Clark’s Rockin’ New Year’s Eve TV celebration. Known by her fans as the “Queen

Diva,” Big Freedia is a loud and proud advocate for racial and gender equality and LGBTQ+ rights.

In 2021, Big Freedia was honored as one of Ebony’s Power 100 and she has appeared on Access Hollywood, Entertainment Tonight, NPR, The Breakfast Club, The Problem with Jon Stewart, The Late Show with Stephen Colbert, Jimmy Kimmel Live!, and The Real. Her critically acclaimed 2015 memoir, God Save the Queen Diva (Gallery Books/Simon & Schuster) was released in paperback in 2020.

Want to go? Here’s the information: Big Freedia

“The Femmergy” featuring Mister Wallace & Friends, J Bambii & friends + DJs VITIGRRL & Zolita

Supported by Slo’ Mo & Futurehood

Thursday, July 13, 2023

Millennium Park, Jay Pritzker Pavilion

6:30-9pm • Free Admission

(5pm Gates open, 5:30pm Pre-show)

Event entrances at Randolph Street and Monroe Street Park Safety and Security

Millennium Park is a safe and welcoming space for everyone.

CNW Staff Report

Again this summer, guests will be required to enter all Pritzker Pavilion events (concerts, films and more) through special entrances off Randolph and Monroe streets. Visit Cloud Gate, Crown Fountain and other attractions via entrances off Michigan Avenue. More information at Plan Your Visit at MillenniumPark.org. Also continuing in 2023, guests under the age of 18 must be accompanied by an adult (21 years and older) after 6pm, Thursday through Sunday — and may be asked to present a valid ID. The adult must be present for the duration of the visit and may escort up to four young people. For more information, visit Millennium Park Rules.

As in previous years, outside alcohol is not allowed for the following festivals: Chicago Blues Festival (June 8–11, 2023) and Chicago Jazz Festival (August 31 –September 3, 2023). For these events, alcohol at various price points may be purchased inside the venue.

Photo:

Big Freedia will perform at the Millennium Park Summer Concert Series on July 19, 2023. Photo credit, Wayan Barre

Music Is His Medicine Jesse Saunders

By Mila K Marshall, PhD CNW Staff Editor

JS: “Faith.”

CNW: “What has been the most challenging part of your recovery?”

JS: “Talking.”

CNW: “What have you been listening to these days?”

JS: “My music. I have a single out on Frankie Razer from American idol “Epic Thrills”

CNW: “Fans and supporters send love often via social media. What has been the kindest gesture from a fan during your healing?”

JS: “Someone sent a whole timeline as to muscle memory.”

CNW: “Your Chosen Few brother Terry Hunter was nominated for a Grammy last awards season...how.did it feel to see a CFDJ be nominated?”

JS: “Amazing.”

CNW: “We see you were originally slated to perform but were unable to, Were you be in attendance this year?”

JS: “Yes! I was!l”

CNW: “What are 3 words to describe what it feels like to be a Chosen Few. DJ?”

JS: “Incredible. Best-of-the-best. Humble.”

CNW: “If you could dedicate a song to the Chicago house community, what song would that be?”

JS: Higher (by me)

Jesse Saunders is known as the originator of house music and is a pioneer in the industry and a Chosen Few DJ. Saunders’ discography has been in rotation for decades and he has blessed audiences with his gift around the world. A post on the Chosen Few DJ’s instagram page reported health issues that rocked the house community.

“We have to sadly share some difficult news and ask for your prayers and support. Our brother Jesse Saunders has suffered a major stroke and is currently hospitalized in the Las Vegas area. Jesse

will likely be facing a long and difficult rehab, and will need the love and support of the house music community to which he has given much. Please keep Jesse in your prayers. Thank you.” - @ Chosenfewdjs IG

Over the past months Jesse has been gaining strength and getting stronger every day. CNW caught up with the icon and living legend hours ahead of one of the most anticipated summer events in Chicago, the Chosen Few Picnic. As Saunders is still recovering and unable to speak, we appreciate his willingness to be heard and share his responses to a few

questions fans will surely vibe with.

CNW: “Jesse, thank you for your time... After hearing about you having had a major stroke, the community was rocked and keeping you in our hearts. First, how are you feeling today, and how has your road to recovery been?”

JS: “I’m feeling good. So far So good.”

CNW: “Can you share any updates as to your wellness you’d like your fans and supporters to know?”

CNW: “What has been keeping you inspired as you heal?”

CNW: “What’s your best advice for first-timers attending this weekend’s event?”

JS: “Get there early!”

CNW: “You’ve shared so much of your journey online, and we thank you for sharing with us.

How can the community support you as you continue to recover?”

JS: “Buy my book”, In Their Own Words.”

https://a.co/d/1Wv8z5u

Photo courtesy of EDM.com

By Mila K. Marshall, PhD, CNW Cannabis Corner Editor

Connected & Respected Richardson Reflects for Success in Cannabis

From night club owner to one of the most connected and respected in the Illinois cannabis industry, Richardson shares his story and insight for success in the sector and is a shining example of what happens when an entrepreneur’s values align with opportunity.

Before cannabis Lamar had worked as an air traffic control operator at O’Hare Airport, “I was the first Black air control operator and worked as one for 10 years. I had the opportunity to become an entrepreneur because and wanted to do something less nerve wracking than controlling airplanes, so I opened a nightclub in Bellwood, Illinois,” shared Richardson.

He’s always been a hard-working entrepreneur. After opening his club in 1979 it is still standing after 45 years. “I opened Happiness Is in 1979 and it was the first Black owned and operated nightclub in the entire western and northern suburbs of Chicago,” said Richardson proudly. Civic engagement and giving back are part of his personal brand. “I enjoy being civically engaged here in my community. I raised $600K for the first Boys & Girls Club here in Bellwood, I’m really proud of what I’ve been able to give back. I am one of those people who believes in knocking down barriers,” he said. Richardson’s contributions have been so impactful that a portion of St. Charles Rd. is in part named Honorary Richardson Drive after him.

These days Lamar is leveraging his professional success to guide the first generation of social equity businesses in cannabis. At the age of 75 Richardson is proof positive that the industry benefits from experienced and distinguished professionals. For the Illinois cannabis community, Richardson’s role in educating, training and connecting social equity entrepreneurs is that of a masterclass on how to be the first in line and become the best over time. “I believe in generational wealth,” shared Richardson “and I’m aware that if multi-state operators are having trouble making money, operating under the law or accessing capital then those who are social equity businesses are

having an even tougher time,” said Richardson. Illinois Cannabis Training Center provides a hands-on training experience for people who aren’t computer savvy and for people who benefit from experiences that give them access to learn through doing. He for example, has learned much about the gaps in resources that impair the industry’s most vulnerable. As marijuana is still federally illegal, the barriers to entry are many and the learning curve steep. For newbies to the world of business this can be even more of a challenge because there are few trusted resources on how to operate and own a federally illegal business. Richardson was asked by his grandson Brent Richardson if he would support him in the pursuit of a dispensary license. Lamar had already decided to redirect his investments away from retail and communicated he had “his fair share” of retail operations but agreed, nonetheless.

“We submitted an application in early 2020 and it was well done but then around March I was infected with COVID-19, but at the time it hadn’t been announced federally. I stayed in the hospital for 13 days and over that time the State of Illinois sent out a notice of discrepancy regarding my address and age. It was a joke. They gave 10 days to respond. Eventually I was released from the hospital, and I came home to that notice and of course that 10-day period had expired. But at the time all the agencies had been shut down. I tried to address that I had a legitimate reason as to why I missed the deadline but to no avail I did not get

the message across. Most importantly I didn’t get discouraged,” shared Richardson.

It was at a networking session with about 80 people in the space trying to find out about the new cannabis industry. A young woman from ACC shared there was an opportunity to get into training “I was one of the top air traffic controller trainers and I had trained hundreds of bartenders in my A1 Bartending School, it was that conversation that drove me to become a responsible vendor in the state of Illinois,” shared Richardson. ICTC is growing through both training and curating network sessions. Their sessions often bring together 200 to 300 people at our events. “We let vendors come and show their unique concepts to service the industry and then there are the dynamic speakers that inspire people to take the risk to get involved,” he shared. The organization is present in advocacy conversations and supports social equity efforts across the board and is currently looking to grow their staff of 10 parttime and full-time positions. “Right now, we are looking for a Chief Operating Officer and office manager to help us keep growing, we offer a fair salary and are looking for the right people. Also, hopefully we will find donors and sponsors to help offset the costs of participants to attend our networking night. We are partnering with Bringing Better Resources and hoping to find partners that believe in our mission and want to see an equitable industry,” he shared.

5Breakfast Toast Recipes

Mare’ Evans Contributing Writer

Idon’t know about you, but I love avocado toast because: It tastes good, it’s filling and its satisfying. For variety, we’re suggesting that you know, some other toppings. Avocado can still be your main love. So . . . .

1. Ricotta, Raspberry, and Cashew Toasts

Serves 2

Milky ricotta, bright raspberries, rich cashew nuts and honey make for a decadent, sweet breakfast. Better yet? This recipe is quite simple. What you’ll need:

• 2 slices toast

• 1/2 cup ricotta cheese

• 2 small handfuls of raspberries (about 3 ounces)

• 1/4 cup cashew halves

• 2 teaspoons honey

Spread each toast slice with 1/4 cup ricotta and top with a handful of raspberries. Sprinkle with cashews, drizzle with honey and serve.

2. Almond Butter, Grape, and Granola Toasts

Serves 2

Classic breakfast flavors and textures star in this musttry toast. Mix it up by substituting blueberries or diced mango for the grapes. What you’ll need:

• 2 slices toast

• 1/4 cup almond butter

• 1/2 cup assorted grapes, halved.

• 2 tablespoons granola

Spread each toast slice with 2 tablespoons almond butter and scatter with grapes. Sprinkle with granola and serve.

3. Crème Fraîche, Charred Sugar Snaps and Radish

Toasts

Serves 2

Looking for a substitute for cream cheese or ricotta?

Try crème fraîche: This tangy, thick, and creamy topping is a great way to mix up your toast’s base. What you’ll need:

• 1/2 cup sugar snap peas, trimmed

• 2 slices toast

• 1/4 cup crème fraîche

• 2 radishes, very thinly sliced

• Zest of 1 lemon

• 1 teaspoon extra-virgin olive oil

• Flaky sea salt, to taste

• Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Heat a small, heavy skillet over high heat. When very

hot, add sugar snaps and cook, tossing, until the skins just begin to char and blister, 3 to 4 minutes. Transfer to a plate. Spread each toast slice with crème fraîche. Top with peas, radishes, and lemon zest. Drizzle with olive oil, sprinkle with sea salt and pepper, and serve.

4. Ricotta, Pear, and Thyme Toasts

Serves 2

These toasts are delicious and sweet, but you can take them in a savory direction by sprinkling each with a few pinches of coarse sea salt and a little freshly ground black pepper. What you’ll need:

• 2 slices toast

• 1/2 cup ricotta cheese

• 1 pear, cored and thinly sliced

• 2 tablespoons chopped walnuts or hazelnuts

• 1/2 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves

• 2 teaspoons honey

Spread each toast slice with 1/4 cup ricotta and layer with pear slices. Sprinkle with nuts and thyme, drizzle each with a teaspoon of honey and serve.

5. Halloumi Toasts with Hummus and Balsamic Serves 2

Firm, springy halloumi cheese is a great base: Its unique texture point means it browns quite nicely when grilled or pan-seared. Here it’s paired with a super savory combo of hummus and balsamic vinegar. What you’ll need:

• 2 teaspoons extra-virgin olive oil, divided

• 2 (1-ounce) slices Will Studd Halloumi Cheese

• 2 slices toast

• 3 tablespoons hummus

• Balsamic vinegar (preferably aged)

• Microgreens or sprouts

Heat 1 teaspoon of the extra-virgin olive oil in a small, heavy skillet over medium-high heat. Add cheese slices and cook, turning once, until browned and soft, about 5 minutes. Spread toasts with hummus, top with cheese, drizzle with balsamic and remaining 1 teaspoon olive oil. Sprinkle with microgreens and serve.

More DIY Toast Tips

You have our recipes — now perfect your technique with these helpful toast-making pointers.

• Start with great bread. Don’t be afraid to buy that big, beautiful loaf calling your name from the bakery display. Slice and freeze what you don’t eat after a day or two, and you’ll have it for breakfast all week. Bread toasts well when it’s frozen, so there’s no need to thaw it. Bonus: We don’t allow bleached and bromated flour in our bread.

• Think about a mix of textures. A creamy base is not only classic, but it’s also effective at holding the rest of your ingredients in place. Include something with crunch, like nuts, seeds, or crisp veggies. And finally, add something a little bit extra, like an egg with a velvety yolk or sweet fruit like berries.

• Garnish however you’d like. A sprinkle of herbs, coarse sea salt, citrus zest, or a spice blend like Za’atar or peri-peri or a drizzle of fruity extra-virgin olive oil or honey can take toast to the next level. Want to go for a little bit of luxury? Try truffle oil or truffle honey, aged balsamic vinegar, or microgreens.

Loewe is on a High

C.L. Blackburn Staff Writer

Ifyou are in fact a fashionista then you know that LOEWE is one of the world’s major luxury houses, founded in 1846 in Spain, was acquired by LVMH in 1996. Originally specializing in very high-quality leather work, today, Loewe offers leather goods and ready-to-wear. And is under the creative direction of Irishman Jonathan Anderson and founder of JW Anderson. Lovers of Anderson’s designs recognize his art influence and a flare for drama. Each design is a story, and the wearer is the star. At the age of 18 Anderson moved to the New York in an attempt to become an actor. And attended Juilliard School, but developed an interest in costume design rather than acting. Not slow to move by 2008 he created his own menswear collection under the JW Anderson label receiving critical acclaim. In 2010, the British Fashion Council’s Newton committee sponsored him and subsequently produced his first catwalk collection at London Fashion Week. Then came Topshop in 2012. a collection of limited-edition items, known as the JW Anderson x Topshop collection. It sold out within hours of it launching. Anderson and Topshop scheduled another collaboration which launched a year later, for February 2013. That same year, Donatella Versace recruited him to replace Christopher Kane at Versace’s nonconventional line Versus, where he showcased his first collection in June at New York’s Lexington Armory . Those present knew that it was a perfect fit. But the most dominant fashion luxury house LVMH In September 2013, LVMH took a minority stake in JW Anderson and named Anderson as the new creative director for Spanish luxury house LOEWE. By 2019, he created 18 different collections each year — six for his own label, 10 for Loewe and two for his ongoing collaborations with Uniqlo, so he’s a bad boy! In February 2023, Anderson designed fashion rock star Rihanna’s red outfit, she wore during her halftime Super Bowl performance when she announced her second pregnancy. So, it’s hard to imagine that Andersons’ influence would not be steeped in art and historical references, rooted in craft and tradition. Loewe has been reinventing leather craftmanship for almost 200

years since its birth in Madrid to its latest collection dedicated to the elegance of Chinese monochrome ceramics, reflecting the lines values: energy, creativity, and a thoroughly modern approach blended with traditional techniques. Art remains at the heart of every collection –and the House is committed to supporting the artists and creators informing its work.

So, noteworthy is Loewe’s spectacle at Fashion Week in Paris this summer. Not to be in the shadow of its sister brand LV Jonathan Anderson was prodding us into questioning the fake-ness behind our sunless screens exploring the fake in nature. To emphasize the reality, a giant fiberglass Anthurium stood seemed to grow out of a hole in the floor, and the unreal-looking flower was adapted for clothing, molding bodices that wrapped around the torso and bra cups out of the suggestive blooms. Obviously Anderson’s flowers were not ‘femme fleurs’ as presented traditionally in fashion soirees with roses, orchids, and other soft and delicate flowers. Instead, the creative director chose the Anthurium’s stubby spadix that looks like an erect phallus while the flower could very well be the feminine compliment; and another contrast is that the flower is poisonous. One must conclude that women who chose to wear these dresses imagine themselves more dangerous than delicate.

We can see the expanded element of incitement to Anderson’s work since pandemic. Clearly he has had time to evolve the elements of allure and increasing the fashion ante that moves his audience to the edge of their seats. Anderson’s signature is the pre-show, which always brings the glamour and mystic that great designers bring to the stage and costume designer Sandy Powell did not shortchange the audience. The musicians Oliver Sim and Dev Hynes, the actors Maude Apatow and Hari Nef, and, on the runway in look 1, Taylor Russell, who stars alongside Timothée Chalamet in the

Luca Guadagnino film Bones and all. actress, Russell brought drama to the stage wearing a strapless black velvet dress with panniers jutting out from the hips, a silhouette borrowed from the Baroque period via the 1920s robe the style that once again appeared on the runways. The dressed walked in three other colors establishing repetition’s role as a motif in and of itself. The strangeness of jutting emerging from dresses swagged and suspended that reached up toward the face. and for the youth were the tops that were worn—’are they really dresses’—were made from enameled metal painted with flowers. The empty baby carriers appeared like fabric-covered versions of the gold breastplates that impressed on the Loewe runway a year ago. It’s all about the anthurium flower described in the show notes as “a product

of nature” that looks like an object of design and [was] treated as such.”

The metal beast plates found their space in fashion as will this new peculiar, functional structured design, and anderson’s experiments with fiberglass and metal will make their way into the culture and the women who choose to wear them will weave it into their lifestyle They will make it work.

The softer pieces that showcased the brand’s mastery of leather, like graced oversized shirtdresses and sweatshirt dresses with split arms that let the limbs swing free and outside of the sleeves. The evening numbers conveyed romance fashioned out of delicate fabrics gathered with bows at the waist. and to top it off anderson’s tops and trousers in the pixelated squares of Minecraft glitches “breaks the pattern,” – as he pushes boundaries.