October 18, 2023 by cnwmedia.com

October 18 - October 24 , 2023 • The Voice Of Black Chicago • Vol.1 No 44 • cnwmedia.com • FREE

Michael Fountain The Diplomat Next Door Consulate General Designate

The Voice Of Black Chicago

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Chicago News Weekly

October 18 - October 24, 2023

Cheryl Mainor Norman

President & Publisher Kai EL’ Zabar

Editor-In-Chief Terri Winston

Vice President Darnell Pulphus

Art Director Editors Donna Hodge Food Editor Dr. Mila K. Marshall Cannabis Corner Editor Staff Writers

Dr. Sharice Braford Dr. Sanja Rickette Stinson Marti Worell Wanda Wright

Contributors NNPA Newswire Mare Evans Melanie Mainor Kenn Cook, Jr. Cover Photo by Gabriel Montgomery MakeUp by Veronica Wormley

4131 S.State Suite C Chicago, IL 60609 (773) 236-1464 Vol. 1 No 44 Wednesday, October 18, 2023 Chicago News Weekly is published weekly on Wednesday. www.cnwmedia.com advertising@cnwmedia.com editorial@cnwmedia.com Subscription $104 year

October 18 - October 24, 2023

E notes

Fifty Years of

t’s been a while but it’s still the 50th year of Hip Hop and while the Hip Hop generation continues to celebrate on a high note. Hip hop also known as rap is the genre of popular music emerged in the early 1970s by Blacks several years prior to mainstream discovery. It’s interesting how the very idea of 50 years of Hip Hop has flown past some, but here it is. So, what is it all about? Beyonce, Taylor Swift, and Drake have had record breaking tours in 2023. Truth . . . I love some Hip Hop artists and some I don’t; but give me Lauryn Hill, Nas, Tupac, Jay-Z, Kendrick Lamar, Public Enemy, Mos Def, RUN DMC, Will Smith, LL Cool J, Missy Elliott, Ice Cube, Kanye, Queen Latifah, Common, Erykah Badu, Busta Rhymes, A Tribe Called Quest, OutKast, Arrested Development, and the Fugees to name a few. However, with that said, my point is that we are definitely on different vibrations when it comes to most things from, music to politics. But one thing I know to be true is that they know what I know and that is that Hip Hop emerged from the Black experience and like its predecessors—Jazz and Soul, America has never been the same. Both have an indisputable impact on the world and especially Hip Hop Sure, Jazz hit the world too, but there was no internet or, social media platforms and all that comes with it during its prime. It was shared with world the old fashion way. And folks around the world were fascinated. Jazz influences dress, language, and music, and all artforms. However, the artform that was initially rejected and not readily embraced by the music industry did not detour the creators. They kept it moving. The birth of Hip Hop August 11, 1973, is noted as the date when some teenagers threw a backroom party in the Bronx, where 18year old Jamaican born, Olive Campbell AKA DJ Kool was inspired to extend an instrumental beat, breaking and or scratching to let people dance longer to the song. He began rapping or what is known as MC’ing during the extended plays. Additionally, he played the same album on two different turn tables and extended the drum section (which became known as the breakbeat). Others included in the birth of Hip Hop are Afrika Bambaataa and Grandmaster Flash. These three men are often referred to as the ‘holy trinity of early hip hop. The music world was flowing and so much was in transition. The youth

were birthing to life their experience of the world bringing it into the fold. It was definitely ‘a thing’ that took on a life of its own. Before we knew it Hip Hop was the thang. And a whole new genre of music changed the world.

photo credit: Dot Ward

Chicago News Weekly

LANAGUGE ALERT! The one thing I noKai EL’ Zabar Editor-in-Chief ticed about Hip Hop was the language and the themes that were so opposite the music of my youth. iors . . . rappers killin’ rappers. What? While we celebrated life, love, our per- Can you imagine the Temptations killsonal power, freedom, Black power, ing Marvin Gaye or the Impressions? and success. . . “We’re Young Gifted & And the promotion of promiscuity, the Black,” “Say it Loud, I’m Black & I’m introduction of twerking as a norm and Proud,” “Ain’t No Stoppin’ Us Now,” the featuring of the ‘ho’ persona. It takes “What’s Going On,” “Save the Chil- Tupac to address this one . . . “You know what makes me unhappy? dren,” “What’s Happening Brother?,” “God is Love,” “Move On Up,” “Power (What’s that?) When brothers make babies to the People,” “The Makings of You,” And leave a young mother to be a pap“The Needle’s Eye, “When You Are Who You Are”, “The Revolution Will Not py (Oh, yeah, yeah, yeah) And since we all came from a woman Be Televised.” And the list goes on . . . Got our name from a woman and our these songs were mantras that we sang game from a woman (Yeah, yeah) and repeated the words as chants that I wonder why we take from our women impressed upon our hearts and minds Why we rape our women, do we hate the meanings of the words and the inour women? tegrity that they spoke of , we embraced (Why? Why? Why? Why? Why? Why?) as chants instructing our actions and I think it’s time to kill for our women we stayed the course, staying focus with Time to heal our women, be real to our our game face on. We went forward into women the world and leaned in deeply forward And if we don’t, we’ll have a race of baand onward we rocked steady and held bies our stance. Black Power was the secret That will hate the ladies that make the sauce and we stopped waiting for them babies (Oh, yeah-yeah) to “Open Up the Door . . . and I’ll get And since a man can’t make one it my Self . . . like James Brown said. All He has no right to tell a woman when these themes were self advancing and and where to create one real “WOKE,” music by my definition. So will the real men get up? The overview of the Baby Boomer sound I know you’re fed up, ladies, but keep was love , family and protest. Hip Hop themes have contrasted drastically in- ya head up.” cluding violence, rivalry, and sex. We also celebrated our relationships with CONCLUSION Many have become millionaires even endearments and less sexual innuendos billionaires and have influenced the . . . just a few distinctions. And more to the point, Dr. Frances world . . . everybody wants to have the Cress Welsing noted that American Hip Hoppers, style, fame, and money. Blacks were the only group of people The sad note is that they have become that took the derogatory terms given to wealthy on the strength of the derogatodescribe us by our oppressor like ‘dog, ry. So now that many have grown up and bitch, gangster, ho’ and nigger’ and em- are now parents. It will be interesting to brace them with endearment. This ac- see how the children of the Hip Hop ceptance is a subconscious action that generation will see their parents’ generimpresses upon pour psyche the negative ation and move forward in the world. What’s next? connotation. Then there’s the culture and its behav-

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Healthy Living

“I AM THAT WOMAN RETREAT” PROMOTES WOMEN’S WELLNESS, OCT. 25 – 29 CNW Staff Report

wyler Jenkins, founder and president of the I Am That Woman (IATW) Movement, a Chicago-based 501(c)3 nonprofit, serves as host when the organization convenes the I Am That Woman Retreat, a five-day, four-night women’s wellness experience at The Scottsdale Plaza Resort and Villas, in Scottsdale, AZ, October 25-29. Themed Reclaiming Your Strength, Courage, and Wisdom, the retreat serves as an enriching sanctuary for busy women and focuses on the five pillars of wellness – Mental, Emotional, Spiritual, Physical and Financial well-being. “This retreat is about learning to live through holistic wellness. We spend most of our lives existing and not living, because we do not take the time to be still, be quiet, and be open to find our divine purpose and mission,” said Jenkins.

Designed for women ages 40 and up, the program features personal and professional development, including 12 powerful life-transforming sessions, six world-renowned speakers, and opportunities for networking with influencers, entrepreneurs and established businesswomen from around the country. Activities also include a tour of scenic Sedona, daily meditation, yoga, fine dining and package options for spa treatments, golf, tennis and more. “I Am That Woman Retreat is designed to open us up to receive the steps we need for our ‘next’ phase of life. It’s where personal meets business, allowing a powerful transformation to happen within,” Jenkins said. An impressive roster of expert speakers from across the country will join Jenkins, including: Jennifer Bridgeforth, founder & president, JBE/The Phoenix Group; Eyvette Jones Johnson, The Change Makers Champion; Chef Jamika Pessoa, TV Host, and Influencer; Christopher

Gandy, owner, Midwest Legacy Financial Planning; Dr. Portia Lockett, grief recovery method specialist; Valerie Tyler, owner VT Fit and yoga Instructor; Futurist Latia Vaughan who also will serve as a luncheon keynote speaker. The presenters’ stories are unique and inspiring: Gandy was a former NBA player before starting his financial planning firm. Vaughan is one of only five African-American futurists in the country. Jones Johnson’s work helped transform the lives of people on Skid Row in Los Angeles into successful entrepreneurs and corporate executives. Chef Jamika has been featured on several national television shows. “Each day of the retreat is designed to provide women with a well-rounded experience of personal reflection, learning,

sharing and fun. I am excited to join a movement for and about women to help them live as their best selves,” said speaker Eyvette Jones Johnson. “They will surely leave recharged and optimistic, having a framework to step forward into life-transforming experiences in their professional and personal lives,” she said. For tickets and more information, visit www.iamthatwomanmovement.org.

MWRD Board Looks Toward Forming

DEIJ Department

By Mila K. Marshall, PhD CNW Staff Editor

NOW This is

Sumthin’ 4

Chicago News Weekly

deeper commitment to addressing the needs of vulnerable Cook County communities was taken on October 5th by the Metropolitan Water Reclamation District of Greater Chicago (MWRD) Board of Commissioners. The board’s unanimous vote to propose the creation of an agency department that focuses on Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Justice means that it is part of the agency’s upcoming State of Illinois 2024 legislative agenda. In February the board announced its environmental justice policy and even before that had supported a number of flood related projects across Cook County communities. But as volatile weather becomes more frequent, how equity and justice initiatives are structured, funded, staffed and accessed will be part and parcel to meeting the unique needs of the most vulnerable municipalities. Climate change threatens homes, livelihoods and local economies. The Southland is home to about 20% of suburban Cook County residents and 15% of the region’s businesses. South suburban communities are also more rapidly increasing in their population of residents at or below the poverty line according to a recent report produced by the United Way of Metro Chicago. For Cook County, increased flooding is taking its toll across the region. Recent rainfall events in the Chicago metro area have resulted in devastating flooding. Residents in Calumet City can suffer due

to overbank flooding from the Little Calumet River, capacity of combined sewer overflow and backups of raw sewage according to the city’s website. Residential properties in both Calumet City and Harvey, IL are at moderate risk of flooding shown on Risk Factor, a free modeling tool and database that makes risks from a changing environment easy to understand and visualize. Past estimates of the cost of flooding have varied. An Illinois Department of Natural Resources reported damages upwards $2B between 2007-2014 and $773 million according to the Center of Neighborhood Technology for flood damages incurred between 2007 - 2011. Flood damage’s lasting impact on real estate prices compromises the investments of middle-class Americans. A 24.9% decrease was identified in a 2019 study published by the Journal of Environmental Economics and Management on how flooding impacts property values. For Black regional wealth, climate adaptation and resilience seem to be an increasingly valuable priority. If MWRD is successful in advancing the development of a DEIJ office, it could be transformational for municipalities that lack the capital and subject matter experts. The next MWRD board meeting will be November 7th at 10:30am in the 1st floor boardroom (100 E. Erie Street). Members of the public are allowed to speak and given 3 minutes for their public comment.

October 18 - October 24, 2023

CTA’s Red Line Extension (RLE) Project to Receive $100 Million Federal Grant CNW Staff Report

he Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) announced that the Red Line Extension Project, which will build a 5.6-mile extension of the Red Line to 130th Street, will receive another $100 million of federal funding, moving the project closer to the CTA’s goal of breaking ground in 2025. The project will receive a $100 million grant from the federal Congestion Mitigation and Air Quality Improvement (CMAQ)/Carbon Reduction Program, after receiving $30 million from the same source in 2021. The announcement follows the recent notification from the Federal Transit Administration in September 2023 that the RLE project was in line to receive $1.973 billion of federal “New Starts” funding. “CTA is successfully putting together the critical funding we need to build the transformational Red Line Extension, which will increase access to transit for Far South Side residents and serve as an economic catalyst for the region,” said CTA President Dorval R. Carter, Jr. “The Red Line Extension will improve residents’ quality of life by increasing access to jobs, education and more. I thank our federal partners for the continuing support of this life-changing project.” The remaining project funding will come from a $950 million Transit TIF approved by Chicago City Council in 2022 and other sources. Red Line Extension Project Overview The RLE project will: Build a 5.6-mile extension of the Red Line starting at 95th Street Terminal to the vicinity of 130th Street. Include four new accessible stations

City News Virtual Event:

FREE Healthcare Services for South Siders CNW Staff Report

Wednesday, October 18th, starting at 9:00 a.m., the South Side Healthy Community Organization (SSHCO) invites South Side residents without near 103rd Street, 111th Street, Michinsurance or on Medicaid to a virtual town hall. Throughout the session, igan Avenue, and 130th Street, each of which would include bus, bike, pedestri- SSHCO will feature patient experiences and voices and provide important information about the impact of some available partner resources like free nutritious food, an and parking facilities. Build a new rail yard and related rail fa- available healthcare resources and more. cilities to improve operational efficiency During this event, attendees will: for the entire Red Line and CTA system. • Hear about the benefits of joining SSHCO The Red Line Extension Project will • Learn about free resources available including transportation to appointments provide a new, more direct connection • Be able to ask questions about free healthcare services and resources to the Red Line – this means an easier SSHCO is dedicated to eliminating healthcare gaps in South Side communities and trip and less time commuting. Once the helping residents live healthier lives. The organization is comprised of 13 healthcare extension opens, it is expected to provide organizations – safety net hospitals, health systems, and Federally Qualified Health up to 20 minutes time savings to riders Centers — on the South Side of Chicago. traveling from the future 130th Station. To attend the event via Zoom, use the following link: https://us06web.zoom.us/j/83956849353 Project benefits for surrounding communities: An award-winning RLE Transit-Supportive Development (TSD) Plan in partnership with Chicago’s Department of Planning and Development (DPD). The Plan is a proactive effort to guide the future development of the long-disinvested communities located near the RLE project area, and it reflects the vision of those who currently reside and conduct business in these communities. The Extension Is expected to bring more than 25,000 jobs to Cook County in future years. Includes opportunities for workforce training and jobs and participation in the project by small Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE)-certified small businesses. CTA supports DBEs through efforts including the Building Small Business program and partnerships with its construction contractors. For more information about the Red Line Extension Project, visit transitchicago.com/rle.

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Dollars & Sense By Dr. Sanja Rickette Stinson CNW Columnist

Embracing the Unknown: Leaping Over Fear to Success

ear is a potent emotion that often keeps us firmly planted within our comfort zones, obstructing our pursuit of dreams and fulfillment of our true potential. Yet, imagine if we could transform this fear, typically viewed as a roadblock, into a stepping stone toward achieving success. In today’s blog, we delve into the concept of “Embracing the Unknown; Leaping Over Fear to Success”. Before we can conquer our fears, it is crucial to comprehend them fully. Fear exhibits itself in various forms, from fear of failure to the fear of the unknown. Its stronghold over us thrives on uncertainty and the

anticipation of unfavorable outcomes. Therefore, the first pivotal step towards conquering fear if recognizing and acknowledging its presence. Just last week, I had the privilege of leading a group of fourteen aspiring authors through the Disrupting the Status Quo Movement. Witnessing them leaping over their fears to become authors and celebrating our Amazon Bestsellers badges together was a powerful experience. One co-author expressed her gratitude, stating. “I appreciate your push on us and guiding us through our fear of the unknown. Appreciate all that you’ve pour and continue to pour into us.” Today, she along with thirteen other co-authors, celebrate their newfound status as Amazon Bestselling authors.

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For many women, the journey of Embracing the Unknown and Leaping Over Fear to Success can be particularly challenging due to the presence of imposter syndrome. This insidious self-doubt often infiltrates the mind of talented and accomplished women, causing them to question their qualification and worthiness. Research has suggested that imposter syndrome may be more prevalent among women, especially in male-dominated fields, where societal expectations and gender biases can compound feeling of inadequacies. However, it is crucial for women to recognized that imposter syndrome is nor reflection of their capabilities but a product of external influences. Acknowledging this phenomenon and pushing through fears empower women to achieve remarkable success and inspire others to do the same. Embracing the unknown is not about eliminating imposter syndrome; it about acknowledging it existence and refusing to let

it dictates the course of our dreams and aspirations. In a world that often celebrates familiarity and comfort, there lies immense power in disrupting fear and embracing the unknown as a path to success. This journey is more than just taking a leap; it involves shattering the barriers that fear constructs around us. As disrupters, we understand the important of stepping out of our comfort zones, challenging the status quo, and welcoming uncertainty, as these actions can propel us toward levels of success we may never have imagined. Leaping over fear isn’t a singular event but an ongoing process. It requires a conscious choice to embrace the unknown, redefine failure, and act with unwavering courage. Remember that every successful person has faced fear and uncertainty on their journey. By taking that leap, you open yourself up to a world brimming with possibilities growth, and fulfillment that exists beyond the clutches of fear. So don’t allow fear to restrain you; leap over it and discover where your path to success will lead you. Embracing the Unknown: Leaping Over Fear to Success Here are three steps to Leaping Over Fear: Recognizing and Acknowledge fear is the first step in conquering fear. Seek Support and Guidance by surround yourself with a supporting community such as mentors and coaches. Take Courageous Action by stepping toward your goals even in the face of fear, remembering that success often lies on the other side of fear and each leap you take brings your closer to your dreams that propels your legacy.

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October 18 - October 24, 2023

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

Cannabis Corner

A Weed Filled Weekend

he cannabis industry is rough, but creatives and advocates are readied with strategies to advance equity and generate income to continue the fight. Cannabis Corner shares the highlights from the Minority Cannabis Business Association’s Equity Workshop Tour (EWT) and KVL International Flower Ball Cannabis Expo and Fashion Show. It was a weed filled weekend…you should have been there! All Things Fly at this year’s 2nd Annual KVL International Flower Ball Donning an all-black suit and shades Abrose Jackson Chairman, and CEO of 1937 Group was spotted chopping it up live as a guest on The Corner Convo Podcast, one of the many activations at the 2nd annual Flower Ball courtesy of the leading cannabis brand, management, marketing, and event production company KVL International, founded in Chicago. Upon arrival guests were welcomed with live music on the open-air stage, enjoyed pre-rolls and tours of the new 1937 bus that Jackson is proud to connect to his company’s philanthropic arm The 1937 Foundation. Guests enjoyed a myriad of vendors, live music, and a fashion show for one of the most eclectic evenings the southside has seen ever. Jackson attributes the success of the event to his dynamic team and a shared vision. This annual event is a must attend for cannabis lifestyle enthusiasts for sure, but it is an event where it moves beyond cannabis and invites communities of creatives who value a good vibe to find themselves dressed to impress and keeping in good company. Everything Dope Starts in Chicago Social equity is more than a buzzword, for cannabis it defines a movement that reaches beyond ownership of licenses. Banking, real estate, insurance, education and health sectors are finding cannabis conversations necessary to engage in. Saturday October 7th kicked off

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As Ford closed his remarks he addressed delta-8 THC., “I’m going to pass regulations to tax it and make it safer”, he stated. the Minority Cannabis Business Association’s 10 city Equity Workshop Tour (EWT) at Industrious in Fulton Market. “No matter what position you are in, you still need the people to support”, shared State Rep. LaShawn Ford, “industries are doing everything they can to make sure social justice doesn’t happen. They

Cannabis Corner Editor Mila Marshall PhD welcomed insights from both state regulators and equity organizations. Executive Director of Social Equity Empowerment Network (S.E.E.N.), Belicia Royster reflected on her experience as a previous registered lobbyist and the importance of entrepreneurial civic engage-

hire lobbyists and sometimes they can spin the truth” he continued. “I know the cannabis social equity community knows the process of law making well”, said Ford and he believes social equity proponents would benefit from aligning legislative priorities with the state’s real estate industry and even the Illinois farming community. When asked about who in Springfield are some cannabis political peers, Ford lifted up State Representatives Cyril Nichols and Marcus Evans. As Ford closed his remarks he addressed delta-8 THC., “I’m going to pass regulations to tax it and make it safer”, he stated. Tensions over the synthesized delta-8 THC from industrial hemp stalled the omnibus package cannabis social equity had been lobbying for in Springfield. A closing panel moderated by Chicago News Weekly.

ment. Peter Cantos of Cannabis Equity Illinois Coalition gave context to the nuances of veto session in Illinois and helped participants understand the importance of working in a broader coalition for justice involved individuals. Solomon Hatch, the Illinois Deputy Cannabis Regulation Oversight Office (CROO) administrator addressed the lack of having a centralized cannabis agency as a bottleneck in the state of Illinois. Public discourse is necessary, and having regulators, advocates and elected officials coming together is essential for the dispelling of myths and anchoring of facts. Those interested in the remaining nine sessions across the nation should register at www. minoritycannabis.org.

Chicago News Weekly

Cover Story

By Mila K. Marshall, PhD CNW Staff Editor

The Diplomat Next Door Consulate General Designate Michael Fountain

t’s said that a picture is worth a thousand words, for Chicago’s native son a family photo connected him to his estranged father and an island nation. 2023 marks the 50th year of Bahamian Independence from 325 years of British rule. CNW sat down with the distinguished Consulate General Designate Michael Fountain for an exclusive conversation on his surprising Afro-Caribbean heritage, life lessons in diplomacy, and his insight on the urgency of Black Chicago’s global awareness with regard to the diaspora. Fountain a native Westsider, evolved from a latchkey kid to an influential lobbyist and now the founder of Chicago’s first Bahamian Office of the Consulate General.

Fountain of Youth Sandwiched between a much older brother and two younger sisters Fountain had quite a unique childhood. Gathering his thoughts between deep breaths sitting

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perfectly centered between the American and Bahamian flags, Fountain began, “My mother didn’t give a lot of clues about her life, where she came from, her grandparents, their grandparents--there wasn’t a whole connection to family in that way.” A lot of his time he remembers being indoors. “We didn’t spend a lot of time outside. There wasn’t any playing outside or hanging out on the block. None of that happened. I don’t remember doing much except going in and heading upstairs,” he said. Education was challenging for his family of five. His mother who worked for TSA was vehemently opposed to a public school education. Fountain attended only one year of education in public school. His experience with Chicago’s elite would inspire a self-chang to make his name mean something. His days in private school were fused with moments at home as unpaid tuition bills meant the Fountains would have to find another way. “We didn’t have a ton of dough, and there wasn’t a lot of structure in the home because my mother worked a lot of hours,”

shared Fountain, his eyes lowered as if going back in time to the memories of a time long since passed….. there were grades skipped because once the bills came due, I had to sit out because there was no money. And then if I sat out long enough, I just wound up going to another school,” he said. As he shares this memory, it becomes clear that he has indeed become well-practiced at learning how to be genuine and fluid. At home, he and his siblings did their best to stay out of trouble. “Most of the days when we weren’t in school we just did our best to behave. Our mother ruled with an iron fist. So, we would quietly read, watch a lot of TV, and me….I would play my mom’s records…that’s how I fell in love with music,” said Fountain who also to this day will break out his records to spin a set. He admittedly realized his constant state of wishing for genuine and legitimate family connections. With his limited understanding of life what Fountain did have was a profound sense of self. “I needed connections to be real. I didn’t have a familial connection on

October 18 - October 24, 2023

pen. I had to give them the gift of family. And I had to seek that out for them and myself,” said Fountain passionately. His 2009 trip to the Bahamas was life-changing. “ When that plane door opened, and I smelled that air and my feet hit that soil, I became whole. I became everything that I felt I should be but didn’t know why I was not being all through my years, up until that moment. From that moment on, it has become a quest for identity, not a struggle, but a quest. I know who I am. And I know what I’m supposed to be doing here. And I tried to fulfill that every single day. In terms of these interactions in terms of the road to things I couldn’t figure out the pieces that didn’t make sense. It all fits together now, why I had to go through what I went through,” he said. Fountain had found himself in places of influence through his career as a lobbyist. It wasn’t long before he birthed a love for his people which brought him closer to his new dream of connecting those who were also filled with a desire to stay connected to resources, culture, and a community miles away.

Diplomacy is a Lifestyle

my father’s side and a very small one on my mother’s,” said Fountain. All I knew is that my parents parted for irreconcilable differences, and that was that. It would be a photo of his father’s sister that kept him curious even through his resentment of a father who was far away.

A Caribbean Homecoming “There was one picture that connected me to the Bahamas and that was a picture of my late Aunt Brenda,

It was in 2009, with the effort to get the Olympics in Chicago, 2016, that Fountain was then the legislative director for McCormick Place, Navy Pier. His newfound understanding of who he was gave him the purpose to be part of that experience and ensure those athletes and guests from the Bahamas were supported and well celebrated. His job at the time was to specifically interact with elected officials to present the agenda items that were of note and importance to the organization he was working with. “I felt like I needed to do something if Bahamian athletes were going to be in the largest convention space under one roof in North America. If they’re going to be a part of the Olympics, then I need to be of service to my country, men, and

On September 11, 2023, Mr. Fountain was named Consul General of The Bahamas to Chicago. One of his first orders of business was to figure out how to intersect, interact, align with, and engage the Bahamian community. who was Miss Bahamas in 1968. That picture was my only connection to my father’s side, that heritage of those Bahamian roots. Fountain was for the most part unaware of his island heritage. It wasn’t until his forties the Fountain was determined to seek the connection to his father which would inherently be the beginning of his connectedness to a sense of self. “I had a divorce under my belt, and three sons, who needed me to do better for them than was done for me. And it hit me because my little sister had kept in contact with our father’s side of the family for years and had really implored me to invest in that the way that she did. But I’m a son from the west side of Chicago, I ain’t got no father, I don’t need no father, I don’t want no father, I’m just gonna keep it moving. And that was my attitude about it until I had three sons of my own. And I felt like, if I didn’t take hold of it, immediately, history was going to repeat itself and they were going to be looking around trying to figure out what I was about and what that connection was, and I could not allow that to hap-

October 18 - October 24, 2023

women,” he recalls passionately. He wrote a note to the then Shadow Minister of Foreign Affairs Frederick A. Mitchell, and I said I feel like I could be of service. He sent me a note back saying we should have a conversation about that. Now, Chicago did not win that Olympic bid. But my notion about what that service meant was still within me,” said Fountain. The stars were aligning as he later expressed himself as interested in holding a distinguished volunteer position. Honorary consuls while not professional diplomats live, work, and pay taxes in the country where they operate while representing their native country. The appointed position is strictly voluntary with no salary or compensation. Fountain felt himself so moved from learning about his homeland he took it upon himself to be that for Bahamians calling Chicago home. The Bahamian community in Chicago is vibrant and active. Once Fountain was aware of his roots he began to learn about the local Bahamian community right here in Chicago with most of the community located

on the north side or Northwest- Miss Bahamian ern suburbs. He was accredited Aunt Brenda . . by the U.S. State Department as the first Bahamas Honorary Consul to Chicago for the Midwestern United States, March 6, 2014. His full jurisdiction includes Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, North and South Dakota, and Wisconsin. The establishment of this historic post makes Mr. Fountain the first diplomatic representative of The Bahamas in Chicago, the second Bahamas Honorary Consul ever assigned to the U.S., and the longest-serving diplomatic representative of The Bahamas in the United States. On September 11, 2023, Mr. Fountain was named Consul General of The Bahamas to Chicago. One of his first orders of business was to figure out how to intersect, interact, align with, and engage the Bahamian community. He works to protect the interests of Bahamian nationals in the U.S. and promote and engage interested parties in the specific matters of tourism, investment, trade, economic development, culture, science, agriculture, public safety, and the import and export of goods and services within his jurisdiction. “I got accredited and opened the Consulate in 2014. And then in 2015, July of 2015, that was the first Independence Day Picnic I was a part of,” said Consul General Designate Fountain. The Bahamians who reside here, have a uniquely Chicago vibe to them according to Fountain. His entry into the small but well-connected community required building relationships and learning, he found that in Ms. Donna Johnson. “Donna Johnson, affectionately known as Donna, was the person I wanted to talk to. When we met, we clicked, she instantly got what I was here to do. She instantly embraced the concept,” he said. Fountain acknowledges fully the efforts of those who supported the Bahamian community and in the true fashion of a diplomat honors those who were instrumental in establishing resources, activities, and events. It

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was Fountain’s cousin Jeffrey Crittenden who explained to him who the people were and what he needed to do, not just get in good, but to be part of the community and learn what his people needed. “Co-founders of the Bahamas Association of Chicago Donna Johnson and Wayne Saldo-Saunders were joined by other leaders like Alfred Swain and Dianna Walkine who were really instrumental in setting the bar for the types of services and skills needed to support the needs of those here in Chicago were invaluable,” said Fountain. The then Honorary Consul had learned it wasn’t about storming in and being loud. It was about entering as a partner in service, a peer mentor of sorts, and a man who was committed to ensuring no Bahamian in his jurisdiction was without a place they could call connected to their first home. “ I started off sponsoring some of our Independence Day picnics as Honorary Consul. Everything I’ve done over the last almost decade has been a labor of love. I understood the mission and necessity when I took the position when I accepted the responsibility,” he said proudly. The annual picnic has been the only thing keeping the local Bahamian community together for almost three decades. “It doesn’t matter where you were or who you were….you knew every second Saturday in July, every year, that Bahamians were going to be at that beach celebrating Indepen-

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dence,” he shared with a smile. When asked about how he was being received by others he shared, “Bahamians are excited that the government of the Bahamas is going to open a consulate general in the third largest city in the United States of America. They feel like they’re being recognized.”

Fountain of Wisdom Though he is just as much a proud Bahamian as a Chicagoan he realizes the tremendous responsibility on his shoulders to get the Bahamian community together including the other Honorary Consuls across America. When speaking of his country’s priorities, he shares that tourism, agriculture and sustainability are the keys to unlocking the health and wellbeing of the Commonwealth’s people, land, and economy. “We spend a billion dollars importing food and I love the fact that we have a diplomatic representative right here in the Midwest connected to research universities solving problems on food security and threats because of climate change,” he shared. To his point, those delegates that call Chicago home have the opportunity to build and connect with stakeholders that would be expensive from other states and cities. The diaspora is diverse but in certain geographies, a direct line to decision-makers, question-askers and philanthropies could very well shift the trajectory of policies and economies. “I and other Consul’s must look at where our relationships are, learn the value that we can bring in making these connections to our island’s priorities and expats needs,” he said. In July of 2022 then serving as the Bahamian Honorary Consul flew the Bahamian Flag in celebration of the country’s 49th Independence Day at Richard J. Daley Center Plaza in downtown Chicago. His remarks focused on the connection between shared

modern challenges Bahamians face around the world. His clear understanding of the importance of connecting was further displayed with his effort of hosting and presenting the Prime Minister the Honorable Philip Davis; Minister of Foreign Affairs, Frederick Mitchell; and The Bahamas Ambassador to the US, Wendall Jones. to Chicago this past September. During the visit, the Prime Minister was able to impart to those he met the critical need for solutions-oriented mindsets. He also was clear on how global climate change threatens their local economy due to the sea level rising as over 50% of the land is just 10 feet above sea level. In his remarks, the Honorable Philip Davis acknowledged how influential Consulate General Delegate Michael Fountain has been in strengthening ties between Chicago and the Bahamas. In everything he does, it is deeply personal, and it isn’t just an assignment. “There is a great kind of awakening mentally, emotionally, spiritually, physically, every chance I must execute the duties of this office properly. I know that foreign nationals have this assignment and go from the sending state to the receiving state, and they do their three-year stint and serve their diasporas accordingly. I’m doing those things, but it’s something different,” he said. His service to the government and the Commonwealth of the Bahamas is personal. It’s about his lineage, his family. He shared excitedly that he was able to present his sons with tracing their family roots back to the descendants of William Fountain in 1847. “That’s a gift nobody ever gave me, and I’m so glad that I have that gift to give to my sons,” said Consulate General Delegate Fountain. When you know where you come from, you know who your people are, it indeed can change the world.

October 18 - October 24, 2023

empowerment

Community Unites to Address Ongoing

Migrant Crisis and Preserve Amundsen Park Programs

Photos and Story by Kenn Cook , Jr. CNW Contributor n a remarkable display of solidarity, community members from Chicago’s Westside, alongside prominent activist groups and dedicated elected officials, gathered to confront the persistent migrant crisis afflicting the city. Their purpose: to safeguard their community at any cost. Together, they stand as a beacon of unity and determination, prepared to take action and protect their community in the face of adversity. At the heart of this gathering is the determination to stop Mayor Johnson’s plan to repurpose Amundsen Park as a migrant shelter. This takeover will inevitably disrupt programs serving the community’s youth and seniors. The dedication to preserving these programs is a testament to the community’s unwavering resolve. Many who stand in protest of the park becoming a migrant shelter are highlighting what is now a contradiction in the mayor’s words when he responded to the youth takeover of down-

October 18 - October 24, 2023

town this past spring. “…it is not constructive to demonize youth who have otherwise been starved of opportunities in their own communities.” Says Mayor Johnson in April 2023. Now just six months later, Johnson has given the order to “starve” the youth of Austin by giving their park and the programs that run within it over to the migrants. The people of Austin have responded with a resounding “No” and have committed their bodies to that point. After a press conference on the issue, many residents and activists set up camp in front of the doors of Amundsen Park refusing to allow authorities to pass. They passed the news of the shutdown to unaware parents who showed up with their kids to use the popular space. Other residents brought the protesters food, heaters, and chairs

to add comfort and show their support of the action. This show of unity and resistance is a proud moment for many of the residents of Austin and the Black community at large. We all must stay tuned for updates on

this ongoing resistance that underscores the resilience and solidarity of the Austin community and its allies as they fight to protect their community spaces and the future of their children’s opportunity.

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Entertainment

Kids, Candy and Conservation Celebrating 37 years of Spooky Zoo with the Auxiliary Board of Lincoln Park Zoo By Mila K Marshall, PhD CNW Staff Editor

“Lincoln Park Zoo’s Spooky Zoo, hosted by the Auxiliary Board, offers a free, safe, and accessible trick-or-treating experience for Chicago families and children. In addition to

responsible palm-oil candy, Spooky Zoo offers health-conscious options, kid-friendly seasonal entertainment, a craft zone, and more! Offering a free experience to all is an important part of the zoo’s mission which is made possible thanks to the support of sponsor, donors and zoo supporters like you.” – Stephanie Weidman, Lincoln Park Zoo, Board Activities Manager Grab your costumes and join in on the Halloween fun this year at Spooky Zoo. The family friendly event presented by People’s Gas is hosted by the Auxiliary Board of Lincoln Park Zoo, one of the longest running young professional boards in Chicago who raises money to keep the zoo free and open for all. 2023 marks 37 years the board has hosted the biggest community service event in Chicago welcoming between 15 - 25K guests annually and a whopping 720K guests since the event first began at Lincoln Park Zoo (2400 N. Cannon Drive). Stephanie Dubbeld is one of 3 Co-chairs for this year’s Spooky Zoo and is in charge of making sure there are enough goodies for the thousands of guests that come to the zoo grounds for the event. “We have a number of exciting treats for our guests this year! We have candy and candy alternatives, and we hope the craft station will be a fun experience for the kids,” she shared At the craft station there will be mini pumpkins and spooky tote bags for kids to decorate and use during the event. Kristin Baranack has had lots of roles

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as a board member. Not only is she the most recent past President but she has volunteered and chaired the Spooky Zoo committee herself. “Spooky Zoo started out as a community service project and has just grown to be in alignment with the mission of the zoo,” shared Kristin. She credits the continued success of the event in part to the generosity of local sponsors, donors who Chicagoans know and love as well as the dynamic board members that spread the word and volunteer their time. There is a load of candy donated by local confectioners including Mars Wrigley, Ferrera, Storck and Haribo, there are other treats guests will enjoy. “This year, we wanted to make sure that we offered amazing candy. But we also have other options so that everything isn’t sugar based, like Kind Bars, CheezIts and Vital Protein,” said Dubbeld. For guests with a more natural sweet tooth Michigan Apples will be sharing their harvest along with loads of bananas from the John Buck Company.

This years’ committee has a special spooky treat…a Haunted Trail. “The Children’s Zoo is turning into a spooky ghost filled trail where children can count all the ghosts they see. At the end of the trail is a prize. It’s not meant to be scary but a ghostly fun filled experience for all ages,” shared Dubbeld. Having a world class zoo with a passion for creating experiences that promote animal and wildlife conservation as a neighbor is a huge benefit to Chicago families. Lincoln Park Zoo’s specially designed animal exhibits are home to nearly 200 unique species from around the world. Spooky Zoo may be about trick-or-treating but even the sourcing of the candy is connected to the zoo’s wildlife conservation priorities. This year Spooky is ensuring candy products contain sustainable sourced palm oil with the hopes of further teaching the public about the harmful impacts of deforestation. “Unsustainable agricultural practices have a devastating effect on nature around the world. We are shining a light on un-

sustainable practices to help to put an end to large scale deforestation with the goal of helping to protect many species around the world,” said Dubbeld. This year treats are coming exclusively from companies that use certified sustainable palm oil. The zoo also provides several accessibility features to accommodate families of all abilities. Services for guests who are blind or low vision can make use of staff-led sensory tours. Hard of hearing or deaf guests can access printed scripts, ASL interpreters and open captioning upon request for all zoo events, classes and programs. Sensory bags and accommodations can be accessed to enhance the guest experience through the KultureCity app with details on www. lpzoo.org the zoo’s official website. Spooky Zoo is Saturday October 21st and runs from 10AM - 2PM. Guests are invited to visit the grounds daily for free between 10AM - 5PM 365 days a year.

October 18 - October 24, 2023

Hot Topic Mayor Brandon Johnson Announces Delegation to Travel to the Southern Border Johnson will not be making the trip with the delegation CNW Staff Report

ayor Brandon Johnson’s administration is coordinating a small delegation of city, state, faith and philanthropic leaders, led by Deputy Mayor of Immigrant, Migrant, and Refugee Rights, Beatriz Ponce de Leon, to visit the southern border this week beginning Tuesday. The delegation will travel to the Texas cities of El Paso, San Antonio, McAllen and Brownsville, which together comprise the primary points of departure for migrants traveling to Chicago by both bus and air. The purpose of this trip is to review operations at fed-

October 18 - October 24, 2023

eral processing centers, and municipal and NGO-led transit sites, and begin discussions with local stakeholders about ways to alleviate the financial and operations challenges in both Chicago and at the border. A point of emphasis will be establishing better lines of communication and collecting migrant data to expedite work authorization processing and the transition to self-sufficiency. The Chicago delegation will also be sharing pertinent information about extreme housing and weather conditions currently facing asylum seekers in Chicago, and the immense challenges awaiting those without verified sponsors. The delegation will brief the Mayor and other leaders upon their return in advance of a follow-up trip to secure concrete deliverables. The Mayor, along with senior aides and key operations

personnel, will stay in Chicago to address the immediate urgency of adding shelter space to house thousands of new arrivals currently sleeping in police stations, airports or outside.

Chicago News Weekly

Food & Wine

Mare Evans Contributing Wriiter

Pan-Roasted Chicken

Suggested Pairing Full-bodied, fruity white: Raeburn Russian River Valley Chardonnay

just returned to Chicago after a summer of hot fun in faraway exotic places and I’m ready for some good ol’ home cooking. It’s fall and on the menu is a cozy dinner dish that doesn’t get simpler or more elegant than this pan-roasted chicken. Required to make it, is a whole chicken cut into eight pieces to begin with. Then you add roasted grapes, garlic cloves, and sprigs of rosemary to yield crispy-skinned chicken in a saccharine pan sauce that calls for a crusty piece of bread. Gotta’ tell you I’m a real fan of this one and you will be too. The mouth watering roasted grapes, garlic, and rosemary; fatty drippings; and the sloppiest, cook’s-treat parts of a chicken may be the best thing you’ll remember. The secret is selecting a top-quality bird for this simple such as a free range and pastured chicken.

Ingredients • 1 (4-pound) whole chicken, cut into 8 pieces • 4 teaspoons kosher salt • ⅓ cup extra-virgin olive oil, divided • 1 medium bunch red seedless grapes (about 2 cups), divided into small clusters • 1 large garlic head, separated and cloves peeled (15 to 20 cloves) • 1 (1/2-ounce) bunch fresh rosemary • ¼ teaspoon black pepper

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pieces to skillet, skin sides up, nestling between and atop grapes. Drizzle with remaining oil. 2. Roast in pre-heated oven until a meat thermomDirections eter inserted in chicken breast registers 155°F, 22 to 1. Preheat oven to 400°F. Season chicken pieces with 25 minutes. Let chicken rest 10 minutes; sprinkle salt. Heat 1 1/2 tablespoons oil in a large oven-proof skil- with black pepper. let over high. Add chicken pieces, skin sides down, and cook undisturbed until skin is browned and crisp, about Suggested Pairing 10 minutes. Remove from heat, and transfer chicken to a Full-bodied, fruity white: Raeburn Russian River plate. Add grapes, garlic cloves, and rosemary to skillet, Valley Chardonnay stirring and scraping up any browned bits. Return chicken

October 18 - October 24, 2023

fashion

Fall Fashion 2024 Headliners

By C.L. Blackburn Staff Writer

t’s been a whirlwind of hundreds of fashion shows across New York, London, Paris, and Milan and finally the spring 2024 season has come to a close. It’s always a high energy and festive time for the fashionistas. But all the running from place to place to catch your favorite brands can be exhausting no matter the adrenaline rush. Perhaps nobody is more ready for a break than the models,

many of whom walked what amounts to miles of shows across

all four cities. Fashion shows and especially the seasonal Fashion Week shows are when

designers introduce new faces. Amongst this years chosen few caught our CNW’s eye are of course, Natalia Bryant, Kobe Bryant’s daughter who is a duce mixture of her parents. Others are Sascha Rajasalu and Hejia Li, both who walked 27 show, while Violet Hume and Ali Dansky, closed out major runways. These newcomers have the potential to soar and own their future on the runway. CNW will keep a close eye on the upcoming months and see where they land. CNW rounded a few of the most seemingly exciting new class of international models. They hail from a spectrum of circumstances. Some are starring in their hometown of New York City, while others represent the world from Morocco, China, Australia, Estonia, and Brazil. Because some of them emerged from successful acting and singing careers or their early life in the public eye. You may recognize them. And then there are the fortunate few who come from humble beginnings and are sacling the sky to the upper strata of the fashion world. See a few of them caught strutting their stuff from the spring 2024 season.

October 18 - October 24, 2023

Chicago News Weekly

October 18 - October 24, 2023