Thank You for Making the 2025 CNW Impact Awards a Success!
As we reflect on the remarkable evening of the 2025 CNW Impact Awards, we extend our heartfelt gratitude to all those who made this event possible
A special thank you to our planning committee for their tireless dedication and hard work in bringing this vision to life. We also want to express our sincere appreciation to our host, Dawn Milhouse, whose warmth and enthusiasm helped create an unforgettable atmosphere Brown Door Music for keeping the party soulful and light, and Rhonda White Wilds, the raffle queen, we see you!
We extend our gratitude to our esteemed vendors, including Uncle Remus Saucy Friend Chicken and Pookie’s Crack Cakes, for providing delicious culinary delights that added flavor and joy to the event Acknowledgment is also due to NG Distillery for their exceptional offerings, which enhanced our guests' experience.
We are grateful for the support of our sponsors: Aflac, Uncle Remus Saucy Fried Chicken, Riteway Huggins, Pier 31, Milhouse Charities, Public Narrative, UNCF, and Hyatt Regency Chicago Your contributions played a vital role in making this event not only possible but truly impactful.
Finally, we thank all the attendees who joined us in celebrating the accomplishments and contributions of those who are making a difference in our community Your presence and support are what truly make the CNW Impact Awards a meaningful celebration of excellence.
Thank you once again for being part of an incredible night Together, we are making a positive impact!
THANK You
Cheryl Mainor Norman CEO & Publisher
Kai EL’ Zabar
Editor-In-Chief
Terri Winston Vice President
Laura Miller Managing Editor
Darnell Pulphus Art Director
Max Blaisdell Copy Editor
Dr. Mila K. Marshall Cannabis Corner Editor
Kennedy Lynn Editor Assistant
Staff Writers
CL Blackburn
Zada Johnson
Marti Worell
Wanda Wright
Columnists
Dr. Sanja Rickette Stinson
David Seaton
Contributors
NNPA Newswire
Mare Evans
Melanie Mainor
Ken Hare
Shanell Oliver Cover Photo
Steven Koch
Advertising Representation
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Chicago News Weekly 2150 S. Canalport Ave. Suite 4-C14 Chicago, IL 60608 312. 877. 5151 Vol. 2 No 49 Thursday, March 6, 2025
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E notes
Embracing the Positive
We’ve been taught that engaging in positive thinking can influence the manifestation of what we are in pursuit of. However, how you approach the concept of positive energy’s impact on your life is grounded in your beliefs and subject to the frame of reference within which you operate. Some would say that positive affirmations make us more aware of our thought processes and encourage self-compassion. This, in turn, can help foster and retain a healthy inner dialogue.
There is truth in the idea that the more positive energy we give, the more our positive experiences become our reality. Positivity begets positivity. The same is true of the opposite—if you dwell in negativity, you will experience more of the same. How can one be hopeful if one remains in a negative vibration? This ideology supports the concept that if one dwells in negativity, they will reap negativity. Conversely, if you immerse yourself in positivity, you shall receive the gifts of your pursuit of happiness.
We’ve all heard people say, "Make a list of what you want to achieve and create positive affirmations to support what you want in life." However, anyone who has attempted to succeed solely through these steps can tell you that it takes more than that. Successful people create lists of intentional outcomes, realistically assess what it takes to accomplish them, and then do the work to meet those goals— which requires commitment and discipline. Furthermore, each accomplishment serves as a stepping stone toward the end goal. Viewing life through this lens can be eye-opening and assist you in achieving your desired outcomes.
Psychiatrists have elaborated on how our brains work. The brain can be conceptualized as a network of complex electrical wirings. Studies have demonstrated that these circuits can be inhibited when neg-
ative thinking becomes a default mode of function, whereas encouraging comments and affirmations that promote positive experiences can strengthen these networks instead.
This physical response is linked to the Reticular Activating System (RAS), located at the base of the brain. The RAS acts as a mental filter, helping process stored data via the senses and assessing what is important at any given moment. The more we engage in positive experiences and thoughts, the more we activate our RAS to create a pattern that prioritizes stored information with positive qualities, transforming it into a powerful tool for positivity.
Here’s the deal: the more positivity that surrounds us, the more it improves our ability to appreciate that improvement, moving the needle forward. The endgame is that the reality we imagine can be shaped by managing the input of a positive environment and mindset. Positive thinking contributes to this process, influencing our brain’s neural circuits and impacting mood regulation within the cortex. It’s natural to seek out more of the same kind of experiences as this therapeutic cycle continues. The science supports the thesis—but who is studying the science? Our eyes are on the experience.
The reality is that choosing to be—and remaining—positive can be challenging. Thus, it’s easier to learn and implement techniques that we can incorporate into our daily lives.
But seriously, all that technical jargon is only to support what doctors report about why and how the medical world merges with the physical and mental experience of life.
Yet what remains constant is that it's our responsibility to manage our individual lives. Our realities are built upon and emerge from the experiences we have and the experiences we choose. Implementing positive-based thought patterns is a step closer to managing and developing how to think in certain situations. Think quickly
right now—what do you think when you think of yourself or look in the mirror?
I can tell you that my father answered that question for me one day a long time ago when I ran home crying—literally. He asked me about the tears, and I shared that the girls in the park were teasing me. “They said that I’m weird.”
So my wonderful father, whom I adored, responded, “Well, baby, you are weird.” That was it! The end of the world—delivered in less than a second. It crushed whatever was left of me. Then, just as quickly, he followed with, “But that’s okay. Do you like yourself? Do you like doing what you do the way you do it?”
I nodded my head yes as I also spoke it. So he then said, “So who cares what they think?”
He went on to provide insight into what weird means, focusing on synonyms like unusual, mysterious, and mystifying. “That’s what your mother and I think about you, and your sisters loves you. So, do you like your mother? Do you like me and your sisters? Most importantly, my dear, do you like yourself?”
Major lesson taught and learned. I really got it!
So, if you look in the mirror and see the horrible, negative descriptions of yourself that others have made—stop it! Ask yourself, Do I agree with them? Do I like me? Take that positive step and remind yourself that you are a unique individual on this planet to do special things that only you can do. If you just take the time to think about who you are and what’s distinctive and special about you, it may be the most important thing you do for yourself.
Self-discovery is like meeting a new person. Become self-acquainted with the you who recognizes the positive and good within yourself. It also gives you the opportunity to change or adjust the things you don’t like.
Embrace what God loves about you. And as our people say, do you. Just be the best version of yourself.
Kai EL’ Zabar Editor-in-Chief
photo credit: Dot Ward
around town
CNW's 2025 Impact Awards
Photos by Melanie L. Brown @melbmedia
The tables were set, the linen was placed, and at the Morgan Arts Complex on the city's South Side, over 250 people gathered to celebrate and honor 12 extraordinary individuals— everyday people whose life’s work not only fortifies their own futures but uplifts entire communities. As guests arrived, they were met with an ambiance of warmth and gratitude, the room buzzing with conversation and shared admiration. The evening’s menu featured a soul-satisfying spread, with dinner provided by Uncle Remus Saucy Fried Chicken, a sweet finish courtesy of Pookie's Crack Cakes, and craft cocktails sponsored by NG Distillery. Host Dawn Milhouse of Milhouse Charities kept the energy high, guiding the night with grace and humor, ensuring every honoree felt the weight of their well-earned recognition.
Live performances by Brown Door Music infused the space with soulful melodies, offering the perfect soundtrack to an evening centered on legacy, service, and community impact. While they say a picture is worth a thousand words, some moments deserve even more. So, step back with us to last Friday, February 27, 2025, and relive an unforgettable night of honor, joy, and inspiration.
around town
Laura Miller Managing Editor
Women on the Move on the move
"Don’t you know that we’re able? That alone makes us major." Pharrell Williams captured the essence of resilience and brilliance in his song from the Hidden Figures soundtrack, a tribute to women breaking barriers. As we celebrate Women’s Month throughout March, we’re taking the time to highlight a few remarkable women who are making a significant impact in Chicago.
This first week, we’re shining a spotlight on women under 40 who are already trailblazing in their respective fields. These women are not only doing the work but are also redefining what leadership, innovation, and community impact look like. From healthcare advocacy and storytelling to business strategy and self-care empowerment, these women are shaping the future in meaningful ways.
Shada Cook Crafting Culture Through Words
Using words as a catalyst to catapult brands into cultural conversations of excellence, Shada Cook is a powerhouse storyteller whose voice precedes her. A proud Northern Illinois University alum, she seamlessly blends strategy, creativity, and cultural insight to shape narratives that resonate.
A self-proclaimed “Cool mom then Copywriter”, Shada approaches every pitch with intentionality, ensuring the energy she puts into an idea carries through to manifestation. Her work with global giants like McDonald’s, PUMA, The Coca-Cola Company, and Pfizer has led to impactful creative campaigns recognized in People
Magazine, Little Black Book, and beyond. Whether she’s penning award-winning concepts or redefining experiential marketing, she remains committed to pushing storytelling forward in fresh and unexpected ways.
Beyond the brainstorms, Shada finds joy in strolling Chicago’s Southeast side with her daughter and Boxer mix, filling their heads with affirmations and big dreams. A true visionary, she isn’t just part of the conversation—she’s shaping it.
Dr. Paris Thomas, CEO, Equal Hope
Dr. Paris Thomas is a devoted health and racial equity leader, researcher, and advocate. As the CEO of Equal Hope, she plays a pivotal role in driving the organization’s mission to promote health equity and eliminate disparities for historically marginalized communities.
Born and raised in the Chicagoland area, Dr. Thomas’ deeply rooted passion for promoting health equity stems from personal experiences within her own family, where she witnessed the impact of the healthcare system on their health outcomes. Driven by a desire to create positive change, Dr. Thomas has dedicated her career to promoting health through intersectionality and innovative strategies that improve access to care for under-resourced communities.
uals of all races and socioeconomic backgrounds.
From working with Federally Qualified Health Centers to Managed Care Organizations, Quality Improvement Agencies, and Hospitals, she has consistently championed the cause of creating an equitable healthcare system for individ-
Dr. Thomas has a B.S. in Physiology from Grand Valley State University, a M.S. in Public Health Education from the University of Cincinnati, and a PhD in Health Sciences from Northern Illinois University. Her doctorate focused on the lived experiences of high-risk Black men exposed to community violence in Chicago, shedding light on their unique health challenges and behaviors. Alongside her professional endeavors, Dr. Thomas is a proud wife and mother to three amazing children.
DeAnna Taylor A Leader in Self-Care, Balance, and Success for Moms
DeAnna Taylor is a certified life coach, business strategist, and the founder of Mom Care Oasis (MCO), a transformative platform dedicated to helping moms prioritize self-care, find balance, and achieve success. As a passionate advocate for women’s wellness and empowerment, DeAnna has made it her mission to help mothers reclaim their time, energy, and joy—without guilt.
A Mission to Transform the Lives of Moms
Understanding the immense pressures that mothers face, from balancing careers and businesses to managing households and relationships, DeAnna founded Mom Care Oasis as a solution to the overwhelming burnout that many moms experience. Through personalized coaching programs, corporate wellness initiatives, and self-care solutions, she helps women integrate holistic wellness into their daily lives.
“As moms, we pour so much into others that we often forget to take care of ourselves," says DeAnna. "But self-care isn’t a luxury—it’s a necessity. When we prioritize our well-being, we show up as better parents, professionals, and leaders.”
Executive Wellness & Corporate Impact
DeAnna’s expertise extends beyond individual coaching. MCO Executive Wellness is a corporate-focused initiative designed to equip high-achieving professionals with strategies to prevent burnout, maintain peak performance, and cultivate sustainable work-life balance. Recognizing the growing demand for workplace
Lanisha Thadison
Entrepreneur, Operations Strategist, and Faith-Driven Community Leader
Lanisha Thadison is a dynamic entrepreneur, operations strategist, and ordained minister dedicated to empowering businesses and women to reach their full potential. As the Founder of Thadison Solutions, she specializes in streamlining operations for service-based businesses, helping CEOs shift from working in their businesses to working on them. With over a decade of experience in healthcare and operations management—including roles as a technical analyst for Fortune 500 companies—Lanisha has helped businesses save thousands through optimized systems, workflows, and automation.
well-being, she collaborates with companies to provide customized self-care programs, workshops, and training that empower working mothers and leaders.
Practical Self-Care Solutions
Beyond business, Lanisha is the visionary behind The "All of Me" Women's Empowerment Brunch, an event designed to create a safe space for women to connect, grow, and uplift one another. Her passion for building strong foundations extends to her faith-driven work as the founder of She Rise Together Foundation, a movement supporting women holistically—spiritually, mentally, and physically. Through this foundation, she leads a thriving prayer community and offers resources to women seeking connection, healing, and purpose.
Growing up on the west side of Chicago, Lanisha saw firsthand the power of community-driven impact. This experience shaped her commitment to helping women and entrepreneurs transform their lives and businesses by providing the support, structure, and systems needed to thrive. She firmly believes that her role as a leader and event curator is not by chance, but by divine assignment—to bring women together, uncover their purpose, and empower them to embrace their calling.
In addition to her coaching and executive programs, DeAnna has developed the ‘Mommy Needs a Minute’ selfcare box, a thoughtfully curated collection of relaxation essentials designed to help busy moms incorporate wellness into their routines. This box includes stress-relief teas, aromatherapy candles, mindfulness journals, and other wellness tools that support mental, emotional, and physical well-being.
A devoted wife and mother of three girls, Lanisha balances her work in business and ministry with a heart for service, a gift for strategy, and a deep-rooted faith. Whether through strategic operations consulting, faith-based mentorship, or community building, her mission is to equip and uplift those she serves.
Learn more about Lanisha at www.lanishathadison.com.
Creating a Lasting Impact
A Movement Redefining Success for Moms
DeAnna is not just advocating for self-care—she’s leading a movement that redefines success for mothers. Through her coaching, workshops, and speaking engagements, she has helped countless women set boundaries, rediscover their purpose, and create self-care routines that fuel their ambitions. Her work is reshaping the conversation around motherhood, ambition, and well-being—showing that success doesn’t have to come at the cost of self-care.
DeAnna Taylor’s influence extends across industries, from personal development and wellness to corporate leadership and entrepreneurship. As a speaker, strategist, and advocate for moms reclaiming their power, she continues to create innovative solutions that bridge the gap between self-care and success.
Through faith, strategy, and self-care, DeAnna Taylor is revolutionizing the way mothers navigate their journeys—proving that balance, fulfillment, and achievement can coexist.
For more information about Mom Care Oasis, MCO Executive Wellness, or the ‘Mommy Needs a Minute’ self-care box, visit www.momcareoasis.com or follow @ MomCareOasis on social media.
More
around town
Continued from page 7
Photo Credit: Yack Shack Media @yackshackmedia
In Soulfully Loving Memory: The World Remembers Jerry Butler, Roberta Flack,&Angie Stone
In the vast catalog of American music, few artists have left as lasting an imprint as Jerry Butler, Roberta Flack, and Angie Stone. Each of these soulful legends has shaped the landscape of R&B and soul, crafting melodies and lyrics that resonate deeply with listeners. Their music transcends time, speaking to love, resilience, and the human experience. As Flack so beautifully expressed in her iconic song, they have touched our hearts with their music, forging connections that endure across generations.
Jerry Butler
The Iceman Cometh
Born in Sunflower, Mississippi, in 1939 and raised in Chicago, Jerry Butler became a cornerstone of soul music in the 1950s. His smooth, emotive style laid the foundation for the genre, creating a blueprint that countless artists would follow. With classics like For Your Precious Love, Butler captured the essence of longing, his voice carrying the weight of deep emotion. The poignant opening lines—"For your precious love, I’d give a lifetime of stability"—reflect the vulnerability and passion that define his artistry.
Butler’s influence extends far beyond his recordings. A pioneer in blending gospel, pop, and R&B, he inspired icons like Marvin Gaye and Al Green to explore the depths of emotional storytelling. His 1968 hit Only the Strong Survive remains a testament to resilience, a theme as relevant today as it was then. Reflecting on his career, Butler once
said, “The key to longevity in this business is to keep evolving but stay true to your sound.” His contributions to music and his deep ties to Chicago solidify his legacy as a defining force in soul.
Roberta Flack
The Voice of Emotion
Born on February 10, 1937, in Black Mountain, North Carolina, Roberta Flack became a beacon of soulful expression. Her voice, both delicate and commanding, gave life to songs of love and longing. With ballads like "The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face" and "Killing Me Softly with His Song," Flack crafted narratives that capture the depths of human connection. The lyrics—"Strumming my pain with his fingers, singing my life with his words"—exemplify music’s power to articulate our most intimate emotions.
A Grammy-winning artist and educator, Flack not only shaped the sound of her era but also mentored the next generation of musicians. In 2022, she shared her ALS diagnosis, facing the battle with grace and resilience. When she passed on February 24, 2025, at 88, the world mourned, yet her legacy remains vibrant. Artists like Alicia Keys, John Legend,
and The Fugees have drawn from her artistry, channeling her emotional depth and vocal mastery. Flack once said, “Music is a way of life,” and her songs continue to connect and inspire. Reflecting on her career, she shared, “I always wanted my music to touch people’s hearts and remind them of the beauty in life.”
Angie Stone
The Neo-Soul Queen
Angie Stone, born in Columbia, South Carolina, on December 18, 1961, emerged as a pivotal voice in the neo-soul movement, blending R&B, jazz, and hip-hop with effortless grace. With hits like No More Rain (In This Cloud) and Wish I Didn’t Miss You, she has championed themes of love, empowerment, and perseverance. The refrain—"No more rain in this cloud"—serves as an anthem of resilience, inspiring listeners to rise above adversity.
Stone’s fusion of genres has encouraged modern artists to embrace their authenticity and push musical boundaries. Her powerful vocals and introspective songwriting paved the way for artists like H.E.R. and SZA, who continue to champion soul-infused storytelling. Speaking on her impact, Stone once said, “I’ve always wanted my music to be a reflection of truth—my truth, your truth,
and our shared experiences.” A collaborator with a wide range of artists, her versatility and commitment to uplifting voices in the industry have ensured her lasting influence on music.
A Legacy That Endures
The contributions of Butler, Flack, and Stone extend far beyond their individual careers. Their artistry has shaped the evolution of contemporary music, inspiring new generations to explore their truths through song. Butler’s smooth vocals, Flack’s emotional depth, and Stone’s fearless self-expression have left an indelible mark on R&B and soul.
Though Flack has departed this world, her spirit lives on in the melodies she left behind. Her journey reminds us that even in hardship, beauty and connection can flourish through music. As we honor these legends, we celebrate their contributions and ensure their voices continue to inspire those who seek solace, empowerment, and truth through song.
Flack once said, “Music is a way of life,” and indeed, the influence of Butler, Flack, and Stone is woven into the fabric of our collective musical heritage. Their stories, songs, and spirits will continue to uplift and remind us that through the power of music, we are never alone.
Photo Credit Angie Stone: By Bengt Nyman: Jerry Butler By John Mathew Smith.
Kai EL’ Zabar Editor-in-Chief
Terri Winston, Grounded in Black Excellence
This week, Terri Winston sat down with Chicago News Weekly to share her journey from Chicago’s West Side to becoming a successful entrepreneur, community leader, and change agent. She attended Howe Elementary before moving on to Charles A. Prosser Vocational High School and later transferring to Jones Commercial High School in the South Loop.
Her passion for business was sparked by her teacher, Ms. Cooper, whose impeccable dress and professionalism left a lasting impression. Inspired by that example, Terri knew she wanted to enter the corporate world. In eighth grade, her mother was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis. Terri took on a caregiving role, helping raise her siblings. Rather than leaving home for college, she stayed in Chicago, attending Robert Morris University and later completing an accelerated business management program at National Louis University. Though she had opportunities to study elsewhere, she felt a deep responsibility to her family. “My conscience wouldn’t let me leave my mom,” she recalls. “I always worked while managing school responsibilities.” Her mother, a constant source of encouragement, instilled in her the confidence that she could achieve anything she set her mind to.
After college, Terri landed a job at Midway Airlines, where she worked as a gate agent. The role not only provided a paycheck but opened the world to her. “I worked 16-hour days, slept, then boarded a plane and explored for 48 hours before returning home to do it all over again,” she remembers. She spent seven years balancing work, school, and travel until Midway Airlines shut down in 1991.
With her siblings grown and her mother’s blessing, she seized the chance to travel even more, visiting New Orleans, San Francisco, the Bahamas, Jamaica, and Acapulco—experiences that broadened her perspective and fueled her ambition.
MCI
Midway’s shutdown in 1991 left Terri without an income, so she applied for a sales representative position at Mobile Communication, a telecommunications company in Schaumburg, a northwestern suburb of Chicago. “I was a West Side girl who had to drive to Schaumburg daily, forcing me out of my comfort zone,” she recalls. “I had to establish a travel routine to get to work early and stay late. But the bonus? I discovered the art of making deals. I enjoyed sales—I was good at it.”
Terri has always considered herself a trendsetter, so selling pagers to everyday customers and introducing them to the latest two-way models aligned perfectly with her mindset. One day, a customer recognized her talent and told her, “You have incredible sales skills. You should focus on mastering the art of sales—you’re a natural. You’re attractive, yes, but your real gift is persuasion. That talent is worth money.”
That comment stuck with her. When the same customer returned days later, he reaffirmed his belief in her potential. “You really should get into sales,” he said. “That was twice that he recognized my natural ability,”
“Look through my eyes—you are the brand. People associate the magazine with you because they know you. You should seriously consider launching your own magazine.”
Terri reflects. “And while he mentioned my appearance, he never asked for my number or flirted. That meant more to me—it was about my talent, not just how I looked.”
Encouraged by this and eager to grow, Terri seized an opportunity at MCI, a global leader in marketing innovation and, at the time, the second-largest long-distance telephone company in the U.S. after AT&T.
“With the grace of God, I’m self-made,” she says. “I took good advice and direction from many people, but I figured it out on my own—without an MBA. And in the back of my mind, I always heard my mother’s voice: ‘If you want to do it, do it. You’re smart and educated.’”
MCI gave Terri the experience of managing commercial accounts while working alongside graduates from top business schools. “As I mingled with them, I could still hear my friend’s words— ‘You’re good at this.’ So every day, I channeled my teacher, Ms. Cooper. I dressed impeccably, armed myself with knowledge, and went out to make sales. And I exceeded my quota. My accounts spoke for me.”
SALON SENSE
Terri recalls how one of her accounts, ShopTalk Magazine, a Black-owned hair trade publication once owned by Chicago-based Soft Sheen Products, was bought by an English company. Recognizing her sales talent, the new owners made her an offer.
Just like that, Terri transitioned from telecom sales to magazine sales. She started as a sales rep, and within 45 days, her stellar performance earned her a promotion to Vice President. This role gave her direct access to major players in the beauty and haircare industry—brands like L’Oréal, Johnson & Johnson, and Carol’s Daughter. Since ShopTalk was based in London, its reach spanned across Europe.
“My gift is that I’m a brand maker. I’m a connector. That’s when I realized how much I love bringing people and brands together once I understand their mission,” Terri says. Naturally, she became a favorite in the industry, receiving invitations to exclusive business soirées, lunches, and even gifts.
But behind the scenes, ShopTalk was in financial trouble—a fact the owner kept hidden. Terri continued excelling in sales and building relationships, unaware of the storm brewing. Then, the façade cracked. ShopTalk was going out of business.
At an event, she met someone who would change her future. While exchanging information, he said, “You need to come work with my employer to help improve his credit.”
Terri was loyal to her role despite the magazine’s struggles, so she countered, “Actually, you should meet my boss— maybe you can help him get the company back on track.”
Her new acquaintance took the meeting. Soon after, he called her back with a blunt warning: “The company’s going bankrupt. You need to figure out what you’re going to do. Don’t go down with the ship. And believe it or not, you can do this on your own.”
Terri was taken aback. “Do what?” she asked.
“Look through my eyes—you are the brand. People associate the magazine with you because they know you. You should seriously consider launching your own magazine.”
Doubt crept in. “I can’t run a magazine company. I’m not rich. I don’t have family money, no one to write me a check.”
To her surprise, he responded, “I’ll help you.”
The idea seemed foreign, and a thousand thoughts ran through her mind. She turned to her mother—the person she trusted most. Her mother reaffirmed the lesson she had instilled in Terri since childhood: “If you choose the entrepreneurial route, you will succeed if you want to succeed. You can do whatever you put your mind to.”
Terri’s voice quivers slightly as she recounts this moment. ShopTalk had officially shut down. It was gone. Poof. She told her mother about the suggestion to start her own magazine. By then, her mother had been battling multiple sclerosis for 20 years.
When Terri introduced her new business partner to her mother, he reassured Mrs. Winston that he would look out for her daughter.
“That was 1997, and from that moment, we were business partners, moving forward together,” Terri says. “The rest is history—filled with all the head trips, questions, and doubts that come with starting something new, especially the nagging thought: ‘How am I going to pay my bills? What do I really know about entrepreneurship?’”
Fortunately, her business partner was knowledgeable in the areas she wasn’t. He gently guided her, starting with an essential step: incorporating her business.
“That day, he handed me my articles of
incorporation, a phone number, a computer, and, most importantly, his unwavering support,” Terri says. “He truly believed in me.”
Initially, she thought she’d work from home. But to her surprise, they drove to 730 N. LaSalle. After exiting the elevator on the third floor, she followed her partner into an office space. The room was nearly empty—except for a printer.
Then he said, “Congratulations, this is your Salon Sense office.”
And just like that, Salon Sense was born. Terri launched her Black hair and beauty magazine with a laptop, a cell phone, and a printer. “It was magical,” she says. “God’s magic.”
Ninety days later, she published the first issue. The launch party was held at the Hyatt Regency McCormick Place, celebrating the achievement of “a Black boy from Cabrini-Green and a Black girl from the West Side who turned their skills into reality.”
Terri hit the trade shows and market circuits, distributing Salon Sense internationally before the digital magazine boom. She built upon her established relationships with brands like L’Oréal and Luster from her ShopTalk days. The magazine skyrocketed from Chicago to Atlanta, Detroit, London, Paris, Vegas, San Francisco, Jamaica, Barbados, and New York, publishing six times a year. Her traction in the industry propelled her into the company of media giants like ESSENCE, EBONY, BLACK ENTERPRISE, and UPSCALE. She mingled with influential figures like Earl Graves, Linda Johnson, and Susan Taylor.
Even as she signed two-year advertising contracts, she remained realistic about the financial ups and downs of running a business. “As a small business owner, you need contingency money for slow periods. You must be able to sustain yourself.”
Fortunately, she had a financial safety net in her business partner. “He was my foundation,” she says. “Even though I never spent his money, I always had that security blanket.”
Since Salon Sense had an international presence, Terri traveled extensively, teaching young entrepreneurs about financial literacy, business ownership, and wealth-building. She introduced workshops like “Are You Bankable?”, emphasizing the importance of owning land, buildings, and creating a solid business plan.
She worked three days a week in Chicago and spent the other four traveling,
expanding her brand with initiatives like “Barber Boot Camp” and “Color Camp” to educate and empower the beauty industry.
Though she wasn’t a stylist or colorist, she learned the techniques to communicate effectively with professionals. “I invested in my business,” she says. “Black hair salons should never have gone bankrupt, but we allowed outsiders to infiltrate and dominate the market. At the time, I didn’t realize I was on a hit list. The Koreans were plotting to buy my company. The only reason they didn’t was because the market crashed.”
As the economy took a downturn, Terri took time to regroup and recalibrate. But she was far from finished.
The Chicago Defender
As Obama worked to rebuild America’s financial stability, Terri took on a role at The Chicago Defender for the first time as part of the sales team, aiming to enhance the paper’s market value.
At one point, the publisher asked Terri to assist a staffer in collecting outstanding payments. He told her, “I need you to help me accomplish this.” So, she transitioned from sales rep to accounts receivable.
Terri recounts the circumstances that led to her first departure from the paper. As a salesperson, she worked on commission, so her first question was, How am I going to be paid for collecting overdue money? From that point on, she says, “I met every day with the Real Times CFO. He called me at 9 a.m., noon, and 4 p.m. like clockwork—because I was bringing in the money.”
During those conversations, he revealed something surprising: “You should have been the publisher in the first place. You have publishing experience, but the Defender's publisher had nothing—not even editorial experience.”
Shortly afterward, the company let the publisher go and brought in Cheryl Mainor Norman as Vice President of Real Times and Publisher of The Chicago Defender.
“That same man I had helped collect a million dollars in outstanding billing turned around and questioned Cheryl about why my sales numbers weren’t as strong as before,” Terri recalls. Cheryl had no idea what was going on behind the scenes. The CFO made it seem as though Terri was being overpaid because she hadn’t met her sales quota—without ever informing Cheryl that she had been reassigned from sales to collections.
As a result, Cheryl let Terri go, based on
false reporting. A few months later, after Cheryl discovered the truth and learned more about Terri’s background, she realized how valuable she could be to the team. Cheryl rehired her.
“Cheryl recognized what I could bring to the table,” Terri says. “That’s why I came back—to help her. But first, I consulted with my business partner, and he said, ‘Why not? Money always helps you get where you’re going’... and we had plans.”
“Under Cheryl’s leadership, I had the freedom to do what I do best—network, transform relationships, and turn them into revenue,” she continued Terri began with politicians, knowing they always need positive publicity. “The first person I brought to the table was Kim Foxx. I heard her campaigning for State’s Attorney on the radio and thought, The Defender can help make that happen.”
“I invited Kim Foxx to the office and introduced her to Cheryl. Then you (Kai) did your editorial magic, and the editorial board endorsed her. And guess what? We had a winner. We were the first to endorse her, and Kim Foxx will tell you that.”
After that, The Defender became a magnet for politicians who wanted the paper’s support. “One by one, they filled that huge conference room—some of them had never even been to the then110-year-old Chicago Defender office. It became a hub where they could share their initiatives and seek support when needed.”
With her marketing expertise, Terri also helped revamp The Defender’s two biggest events: Women of Excellence and Men of Excellence. “Those awards became the ones to receive—and they still are today, based on what we established,” she says.
She also helped elevate The Defender's presence at the Bud Billiken Parade by launching the high-end VIP viewing party. “That VIP party didn’t even exist until we made it happen,” she recalls. “Those were the hottest tickets in Chicago. ‘How do I get a ticket to the Bud Billiken VIP stadium?’ Aldermen, state congressmen—even the Speaker of the House—wanted to be there.”
Terri reveals her secret as a salesperson: “The buyer never knows they’re being sold something. And the other salespeople never see me selling.”
She believes people had forgotten about The Chicago Defender. “I know that Terry Winston and Hiram Jackson’s Vice President had a whole lot to do with turning that image around—breathing new life into a forgotten, iconic brand.” Then, at the end of 2016, the bubble burst. The executive leadership left the
paper, making the front page of Crain’s. They moved into a new office and launched Chicago News Weekly, which began as a curated news platform on Facebook. Gaining popularity it maintained its following and published its first printed issue September 2022
Q’s Lounge and the Fire Brigade
Finally, Terri shares the beginning of the current chapter of her life. Money was always a reality—it always is. This time, when she and Quention discussed the future, he suggested she work for herself. That’s how the not-for-profit Black Fire Brigade was established.
He had recently purchased an empty building that had once been an Irish social club. Everything was green—the floors, the ceiling, the walls, the bar, even the toilet.
“I had to Google ‘brigade’ to understand what I was getting into,” Terri recalls. Quention made it clear that this wouldn’t be a drinking hole but a place with purpose. Then he announced he was retiring from the Fire Department— but he had a plan. “I’ve got a goal, and I’ve got a short window,” he told her. “I want to leave my legacy behind, which means I need to train my replacement.”
Terri’s thoughts raced. How long can I do this? But then Quention listed everything she had done throughout her career, emphasizing her role in empowering and connecting Black people. Accept that I’m intentionally Black, he told her.
Terri received her assignment: build the brand. She and Quention defined their roles—her job was to shape the brand around a firefighter and to find young people who could one day replace Lieutenant Q.
Since 2018, they have recruited young men and women from the South and West Sides to become first responders.
“We mentor them, train them, purchase their uniforms, and prepare them for firefighter training,” Terri explains.
She breaks it down: “The first phase is getting into a department, and to do that, you have to pass the test.”
Then she had a revelation: I’ve been innovative my whole life. Even the obstacles I’ve faced have prepared me, like a playbook. So what’s the problem?
She realized that young Black candidates often failed the firefighter test, making them doubt their own abilities. The solution? Flip the playbook. Instead of waiting for them to fail, they began training candidates before they reached the department. By removing the key obstacle in advance, they ensured that when these young people arrived, they already had the necessary certification.
“That was the game changer,” Terri says.
Their training sessions filled with eager youth. They sent students to school, tutored them, drilled them, and prepared them to pass the national test—one that allowed them to work anywhere in the U.S. But the challenge was making firefighting appealing to Black youth, who often crave the ‘wow’ factor or the ‘sexy’ factor.
“It has to be exciting,” Terri explains. “Otherwise, you lose them, and they miss the opportunity. At the end of the day, it’s about the basics of life: Will I enjoy what I’m doing? Will I be attractive enough to get the girl or the guy? Will I make enough money to buy the car, the bling, and the big house? That’s the sexy.”
She likens it to teaching hairstylists financial planning—owning their property, building their own salons, and expanding into supply stores. “It’s all about community building and legacy,” she says. “So here I am again.”
She paints a picture of their future: “If they go to EMT school, then Fire Academy, and finally paramedic school, they graduate with a paramedic certificate and can earn $70,000 to $80,000 a year—without a college degree.”
But they don’t stop there. “We teach them about money management, life planning, investing, and living comfortably. We give them the map to success.”
Now, Terri announces, “Lieutenant Q is retiring. We’ve identified his replacement. We have kids in the Chicago Police Department, the Chicago Fire Department, and fire departments across the Chicagoland area. We’ve sent them to Houston, New Orleans, and beyond.”
Then came COVID-19. Like everyone else, they faced massive challenges— just as they were preparing to open Q’s Lounge. Terri admits she knew nothing about running a lounge. “But like I always do, I learned,” she says. “I understand business, even if I don’t know the
specifics of every industry. So I took the time to learn, and we pushed through.”
She recalls the moment vividly: “I picked up the lounge license on Wednesday. On Thursday, March 14, Mayor Lightfoot shut down the city.”
That was one of the most difficult seasons of her life. With the city shut down, she had two businesses but no way to generate revenue. Meanwhile, insurance, taxes, utility bills—everything was due. Slowly, they pulled it together. They opened and unveiled the beautiful cigar lounge patio. Their target market? First responders, city, state, and county employees. “You never know who you’ll see in that lounge,” she says. “And again, the revenue from both Q’s Lounge and the Black Fire Brigade helps pay tuition and buy books for our kids. Q’s Lounge is a blessing. We’re not wealthy—we use that money to support our youth.”
Terri sums it up: “When you know your job—my job is business and marketing—you can go anywhere and start a company. I went from sales rep to magazine owner, from working at the nation’s oldest Black-owned newspaper to running a not-for-profit and now a lounge.
Illinois Lawmakers
Join ‘Living Wages, Thriving Communities’ Rally in Springfield
llinois Partners for Human Service launched its Living Wages, Thriving Communities campaign Tuesday, calling for fair pay and sustainable funding for human service workers across the state.
The campaign kicked off with a rally and press conference at noon in the Capitol rotunda, where advocates, community leaders, frontline workers, and state legislators urged immediate action. The campaign’s legislative priorities include:
Increased funding for human services in the fiscal year 2026 state budget Support for the Living Wages, Thriving Communities resolution Investment in the Human Service Professional Loan Repayment Program Support for the Human Service Equitable Pay Act State legislators joined human service workers in emphasizing the need for fair compensation and long-term workforce investment.
“Human service workers provide critical services to Illinoisans,” said state Sen. Karina Villa, D-West Chicago. “As a social worker, I understand both the challenges our workforce faces and the importance of their work. Just as human service workers support our communities, we must support them with legislation that ensures fair and living wages.”
State Rep. Maurice West, D-Rockford, echoed that message.
“As a strong advocate for our healthcare workforce, I’m proud to support the Living Wages, Thriving Communities resolution,” West said. “Human service workers are the cornerstone of health and well-being in our communities. A fair wage is essential to helping workers, their families, and their communities thrive.”
Lauren Wright, executive director of Illinois Partners, underscored the need for sustainable funding.
“For too long, frontline human service workers have been underpaid and undervalued, leading to burnout, high turnover, and instability in our sector,” Wright said. “With 82% of frontline workers reporting earnings below a living wage, Illinois must take bold action to invest in the people who care for our communities every day.”
Human service professionals also shared their personal experiences.
“We do this work because we care about people, but care doesn’t pay the bills,” said Tionna Menzies, a case manager at Anew. “We need wages that allow us to stay in these roles and continue serving our communities.”
Sherrie Crabb, CEO of Arrowleaf, a human services organization in Southern Illinois, stressed the urgency of fair pay.
“When human service workers thrive, our communities thrive,” Crabb said. “Illinois must invest in services that support our most vulnerable citizens because stronger human services mean a stronger Illinois.”
Dara Munson, president and CEO of Family Focus in Chicago, called the rally a powerful statement on workforce investment.
“Investing in the human services workforce isn’t just a budget decision—it’s a reflection of our values,” Munson said. “When we amplify the voices of human service workers, we create thriving, more equitable communities for all.”
Following the rally, attendees met with legislators to discuss the campaign’s priorities and advocate for policy changes. The event concluded with a debrief session where advocates reflected on their experiences and shared their hopes for the future of Illinois’ human services workforce.
For more information on the Living Wages, Thriving Communities campaign, visit LivingWageIL.org.
Chicagoland Hooters Awards $4,000 in Scholarships at Leo High School
In celebration of Black History Month, Chicagoland Hooters restaurants partnered with Leo High School to present “Breaking Barriers and Building Legacies: Celebrating Black Brilliance and Achievement.” The month-long program featured weekly guest speakers who shared their journeys to success, followed by a Q&A session with students.
Actor and comedian LaRoyce Hawkins, known for his role on NBC’s Chicago P.D., served as the final guest speaker on Feb. 28. Hawkins, also a community leader and brand ambassador for Hood Development, joined Hooters representatives, including Chief Operating Officer Steve Clement, Directors of Operations Andrea Hill and Lisa Allen, Marketing Manager Stephanie Martinez, and several Hooters team members from the Joliet, Lansing, Oak Lawn, and Downers Grove locations.
As part of the initiative, Chicagoland Hooters awarded a total of $4,000 in scholarships to four Leo High School seniors pursuing careers in hospitality or business management. The recipients—KamRon Dove, Kaleb Larry, Keith Smith, and Lordan Black—were
selected based on essays reviewed by a panel from HMC Hospitality Group, which owns and operates Hooters restaurants in the Chicagoland area. Each student received a $1,000 scholarship.
“It is a divine partnership with divine intention,” Hawkins said. “I remember being a kid, having good times at Hooters, and thinking about my future. Now, to be in a position where I can help plant that same seed in young minds is a powerful full-circle moment. It’s the least we can do to make sure the next generation of leaders has the same opportunities as everyone else.”
Other guest speakers throughout the month included former NBA player Bobby Simmons, NBCUniversal Chicago President and General Manager Kevin Cross, and representatives from The Law School Mentor.
“I am grateful to be part of a company that gives back so much to the community and honored to represent Hooters in such an amazing way,” said Lissette Miranda of the Joliet Hooters.
HBO’s ‘Eyes on the Prize III’ revisits Black America’s modern civil rights struggles All six episodes will be available to stream on Max.
Building on the foundation of Henry Hampton’s 1987 documentary “Eyes on the Prize: America’s Civil Rights Movement,” this new installment shifts the timeline beyond the traditional civil rights era, highlighting the continued struggle for justice from the late 1970s through 2015. The series captures pivotal moments in Black activism through archival footage and firsthand accounts, from grassroots battles over housing and healthcare to the rise of the Black Lives Matter movement.
Dr. Benjamin F. Chavis Jr., who appears in multiple episodes, played a key role in the history explored in the series. As a leader in the fight for racial equity, Dr. Chavis was the principal national organizer of the Million Man March in 1995 and the environmental justice movement in 1982 that challenged corporate and government negligence in Black communities. The series revisits both turning points, featuring voices from the front lines who fought for justice in the face of systemic resistance.
The first episode, America, Don’t Look Away (1977-1988), explores community activism in New York’s South Bronx and Philadelphia. Local leaders took on fair housing and healthcare inequities during the final years of the Carter administration and the onset of Reaganomics. The episode includes former Bronx borough president Fernando Ferrer, public health officials, and activists who fought for
Black communities amid the AIDS crisis.
As the series progresses, it turns to the criminal justice system’s impact on Black communities. Trapped (1989-1995) follows public defenders in Washington, D.C., and organizers in South Central Los Angeles who took on policies that disproportionately targeted Black residents. The documentary highlights the work of figures such as Congresswoman Maxine Waters and former U.S. attorney Robert Wilkins.
The third episode focuses on one of the most defining moments of modern Black activism—the Million Man March. The 1995 gathering in Washington, D.C., on October 16, 1995, drew over one million Black men to assemble in the day-long gathering in a call for unity, responsibility, and community upliftment.
Chavis, who was the National Director and a key organizer of the march, is featured alongside Rev. Al Sharpton, journalist Michael Cottman, and professor Emerita Angela Davis. The episode details both the controversy and the lasting impact of the historic event.
Environmental justice takes center stage in the fourth installment, which examines the fight against industrial pollution and toxic waste in Black communities. Activists in North Carolina, West Virginia, and Florida battled corporations and government agencies that failed to protect Black neighborhoods from environmental hazards. Dr. Chavis, Deputy
Executive Director of the Commission for Racial Justice of the United Church of Christ at the time, is featured along with Dr. Robert Bullard, widely regarded as one of the founders of the Environmental Justice Movement (EJM) along with Chavis, and former Vice President Al Gore.
The final two episodes focus on legal and political battles over race in the late 20th and early 21st centuries. One installment looks at affirmative action and the shifting landscape of school desegregation, featuring UCLA law professor Kimberlé Crenshaw and civil rights leader Dr. William J. Barber II. The last episode explores the rise of the Black Lives Matter movement during the Obama years, as police killings of unarmed Black citizens galvanized a new generation of activists. It includes BLM co-founders Alicia Garza and Patrisse Cullors, as well as Rev. Al Sharpton.
The series arrives at a time when the fight for racial justice remains urgent, and the Black Press continues to document these struggles as it has been for nearly two centuries. Founded in 1827 with Freedom’s Journal, the Black Press of America was created to give Black communities a voice when mainstream media ignored or distorted their stories. That mission continues today through the National Newspaper Publishers Association (NNPA), representing over 230 Black-owned newspapers nationwide.
Chavis, who leads the NNPA, has also co-authored a new book with NNPA Senior National Correspondent Stacy M. Brown. The Transatlantic Slave Trade: Overcoming the 500-Year Legacy is a deep examination of the lasting impact of one of history’s greatest atrocities. Covering the period from 1500 to 2024, the book details how the forced removal and brutal exploitation of millions of Africans laid the foundation for the systemic racism that persists today.
“The transatlantic slave trade isn’t just history—it is the root of the struggles we continue to face,” Chavis said. “To understand the present, we must confront the past.”
Rock and Roll Hall of Famer and Public Enemy frontman Chuck D wrote the book’s foreword, recognizing its role in providing historical context for the challenges Black Americans still endure.
With the release of Eyes on the Prize III and The Transatlantic Slave Trade, the importance of truth-telling remains clear. “For 198 years, the Black Press has ensured that our history is recorded accurately,” Chavis said. “We must continue to tell our own stories and ensure the truth is never erased.”
This article was originally published by the NNPA Newswire.
Eyes on the Prize III: We Who Believe in Freedom Cannot Rest (1977-2015),” the latest chapter in a six-part series, is now available on HBO. Credit: Photo courtesy of Max.com
Aswe step into Women’s History Month, I find myself reflecting deeply on the world around us. With so much happening, there has never been a more urgent and opportune time to master the "art of the ask." Now, more than ever, women must embrace the power of asking—not just for themselves, but for their communities, their families, and the generations to come. As we honor this month, there is no better way to celebrate the incredible women who have shaped our world—not just with their ambition, but with their boldness to ask for what they need and deserve. They asked to serve their communities, to build generational wealth, and to create legacies that continue to inspire. One such pioneer was Madam C.J. Walker, America’s first female selfmade millionaire, who mastered the art
Mastering the Art of the Ask
of the ask long before the phrase was coined.
Walker didn’t just build a haircare empire—she built a movement. Her journey from laundress to mogul was fueled by her boldness to ask for support, investment, and collaboration. Walker understood that success required more than a great product; it demanded the courage to seek opportunities, market access, and community buy-in.
But Walker’s path wasn’t without internal struggles. Imagine being a Black woman in the early 1900s, stepping into a world dominated by men, while fighting the voices of self-doubt. Imposter syndrome must have whispered that she wasn’t enough, that her dreams were too grand. Yet, Walker pushed forward, silencing those doubts with action. She kept asking—for partnerships, for mentorship, for market opportunities—until she won. Even when rejection knocked on her door, she persisted. Walker understood that rejection wasn’t the end; it was an invitation to ask again, to ask differently, and to ask louder. In the 21st century, this lesson is more
relevant than ever for women entrepreneurs. The business landscape has shifted, but the power of the ask remains the same. Whether seeking venture capital, strategic partnerships, or entry into new markets, today’s female leaders must embrace The Art of the Ask—without apology. The most successful entrepreneurs are not those who never hear "no," but those who refuse to let it define their journey.
Three Key Lessons from Madam C.J. Walker on Mastering the Art of the Ask
1. Ask with Purpose
Walker understood that every ask needed to be tied to a larger mission. She wasn’t just selling hair products; she was uplifting her community and creating economic opportunities for other Black women. Today, when women ask— whether for funding, support, or a seat at the table—doing so with a clear purpose and vision makes the request powerful and compelling.
2. Embrace Rejection as Redirection
Walker faced countless rejections, yet
she treated each one as a stepping stone, not a stop sign. This mindset shift is crucial for women entrepreneurs today. Every "no" is a lesson—a chance to refine the ask, build resilience, and move closer to a "yes."
3. Build a Community of Asking and Giving
Walker didn’t just ask for help; she gave back tenfold. Her philanthropic spirit and commitment to mentoring other women created a ripple effect of empowerment. Today’s women leaders can master the art of the ask by building networks of mutual support—where asking and giving go hand in hand.
So, let’s channel Walker’s fearless spirit and honor her legacy by mastering the art of the ask. Whether advocating for yourself, securing resources for a business, or championing a cause, remember that every bold ask has the power to open doors—not just for you, but for others who follow. The key is to keep asking, refining, and pushing forward until the right opportunity aligns with your vision.
Arts & Culture
Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater Returns to Chicago March 7–9, 2025
Celebrating new works, classic revivals, and a tribute to Judith Jamison, the acclaimed company brings two programs of powerful dance to The Auditorium Theatre.
Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater Returns to Chicago for 2025 Season with Premieres and Tributes
Chicago audiences will once again experience the electrifying artistry of Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater as the world-renowned company returns to The Auditorium Theatre from March 7–9, 2025. This highly anticipated engagement, part of the company’s national tour, will feature two distinct programs packed with premieres, classic revivals, and a special tribute to the late Artistic Director Emerita Judith Jamison (1943–2024).
Under the leadership of Interim Artistic Director Matthew Rushing, the performances will showcase the extraordinary skill and emotional depth of Ailey’s dancers. The weekend includes three Chicago premieres, a revival of Ronald K. Brown’s Grace in honor of its 25th anniversary, and a new production of Elisa Monte’s evocative duet Treading.
A special highlight of opening night (March 7) will be an excerpt from Alvin Ailey’s Cry, performed as a tribute to Judith Jamison, who first danced the iconic solo in 1971. This deeply personal work, originally choreographed as a gift for Ailey’s mother, has become a symbol of strength and resilience, dedicated “to all Black women everywhere—especially our mothers.”
A Weekend of Unforgettable Dance
The 2025 season at The Auditorium offers two distinct programs. The first, presented on Friday, March 7, at 7:30 p.m., and Sunday, March 9, at 3:00 p.m., includes Brown’s Grace, a vibrant fusion of African and American dance traditions, and Finding Free, a 2024 work by former company member Hope Boykin featuring an original score by jazz pianist Matthew Whitaker. The program will conclude with Ailey’s masterpiece
Revelations, the uplifting finale that has captivated audiences worldwide for over six decades.
The second program, performed on Saturday, March 8, at 1:00 p.m. and 7:30 p.m., features Rushing’s Sacred Songs, which revisits music originally used in Revelations but later removed from the current version. Also on the program is Treading, Monte’s mesmerizing 1979 duet, and Many Angels, a Chicago premiere by acclaimed choreographer Lar Lubovitch, set to Gustav Mahler’s Symphony No. 5. This program, too, concludes with Revelations.
A Farewell Performance for Vernard J. Gilmore
This season will be especially poignant for Chicago native Vernard J. Gilmore, who will bid farewell to his hometown audience after 28 seasons with the company. Gilmore, an Englewood native, began his dance training at Curie Per-
forming and Creative Arts High School before earning a scholarship to The Ailey School. Since joining the main company in 1997, he has become the longest-tenured member, inspiring audiences with his passion and artistry.
Inspiring the Next Generation
In addition to public performances, Ailey will present two student matinees on March 6 and 7, introducing thousands of young Chicagoans to the power of dance.
Tickets for the 2025 season start at $39 and are available at auditoriumtheatre. org or by calling 312-341-2300. Don’t miss this exhilarating celebration of movement, music, and legacy, as Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater continues to inspire audiences with its powerful storytelling and rich cultural heritage.
SPORTS: Chicago’s Female Sports Stars Are on the Rise
Mila K. Marshall, Ph.D. Staff Writer
When Angel Reese was drafted by the Chicago Sky, viewership skyrocketed 225%. Bayou Barbie brought her A-game—and fashion—to the Windy City. The young mogul is associated with global brands like McDonald’s, Reebok, and PlayStation, as well as hosting her own podcast, "Unapologetically Angel."
But she isn’t the only woman making waves on the city’s sports scene. Chicagoland native Jewel Lloyd helped the Women’s National Team snag an incredible eighth gold medal in a row—talk about a winning streak! That’s the longest in Olympic history for any traditional team sport. When she wasn’t busy racking up an average of 3.2 points, 2.2 rebounds, and 1.6 assists in just 11.3 minutes on the court, the “Golden Mamba” was making moves off it. She recently announced the acquisition of Help With My Loan (HWML) via her single-family office, Loyd & Co., a mission-driven financial firm based in Chicago that she co-founded with her brother, Jarryd Loyd. Chicago football fields are filling up with some serious feminine vibes. Last year, Jennifer King became the first Black woman coach in NFL history for the beloved Chicago Bears. Bears President & CEO Kevin Warren just scored a major touchdown at the NFL Scouting Combine—he was honored with the second-annual Buddy Teevens Forward Progress Award at the NFL Women’s Forum for his inclusive leadership and dedication to leveling the playing field for women in sports.
Two words come to mind: teamwork and empowerment. Following in King’s footsteps of firsts is Angelique, owner and president of the Chicago Winds. And on March 29, the city’s first women’s full-contact professional football team, the Chicago Winds, kicks off its eightweek season by taking on the Kansas City Glory on home turf at Staff Field.
Soccer phenom Mallory Swanson, #9 of the Chicago Red Stars, signed a deal last year to stay on, becoming the highest-paid player in the National Women’s
Soccer League.
But you can’t have sports without bars. You can’t have epic battles and historic firsts without a watering hole to watch them. Enter the ladies of Level Sporting Club. Clarissa Flores and her executive team know what it takes to win—both in the game and in life.
“All of us are women in leadership roles and former athletes, and that was something really important to me—that Level be shaped by strong women leaders who were also athletes,” shared Flores.
Clarissa Flores, a former D1 and professional baller, is leading her executive team to wins in the business world. Joining her as Chief Culinary Officer is former University of Texas D1 soccer player Chef Amanda Barnes, along with former University of Chicago D3 soccer player Patricia Dull.
“I’ve been in hospitality for 17 years. For me, I have such a passion for women’s sports and basketball because it’s what got me here,” Flores said. In her opinion, the city was seriously lacking spaces that put women’s sports on a level playing field.
“We are here to make women’s sports a priority and not an afterthought. It hasn’t gotten the visibility and equity in sports coverage, and we are here to bridge that gap,” Flores said.
Level Sporting Club is showing the power of creative marketing. It was recently one of seven women-owned sports bars chosen to kick off the Unrivaled league season. The 3x3 league, started by WNBA players Breanna Stewart and Napheesa Collier, has been shattering expectations in its first year of competition.
The sold-out pop-up event welcomed hundreds of fans and supporters, showing the love for the sport as Women’s History Month began.
Flores trusts that things are just getting started for women’s sports in Chicago.
“I expect there to be even more women’s sports watch parties and women’s sports bars like us—and even Babe’s, which is planning on opening this year too,” Flores said when asked about the future of women’s sports in the city.
The A.I. The answer.is...
In today’s social climate, more than ever, we see the deterioration of civility, and it doesn’t appear that it will improve anytime soon. However, for those who understand the power of words, we suggest choosing them carefully—especially when speaking of others.
We often talk about the boomerang effect in relation to our actions, but let’s put it another way: A minister once said, “You get to keep what you give.” In other words, what goes around comes around, and so it is in life.
Here’s a breakdown of words that fit into the category of deteriorating civility, highlighting their meanings, distinctions, and interconnections:
1. Mudslinging
Definition: The act of making malicious, scandalous, or unfair attacks, especially in politics.
Example: The candidates engaged in mudslinging, spreading false rumors about each other.
Distinction: More commonly used in political or public discourse rather than personal disputes.
Related to: Slandering, defaming, vilifying, calumniating (as it involves damaging someone’s reputation).
2. Slandering
Definition: Making false spoken statements that damage someone’s reputation.
Example: He was sued for slandering his former business partner.
Distinction: Slander is specifically spoken, whereas defamation includes both spoken and written falsehoods.
Related to: Defaming, vilifying, calumniating (since all involve harming reputation).
3. Berating
Definition: Speaking to someone in an an-
gry or critical way, often harshly.
Example: The coach berated the team for their poor performance.
Distinction: Berating is more about scolding or reprimanding than attacking character.
Related to: Insulting, belligerence, contentiousness (as it involves harsh speech).
4. Insulting
Definition: Saying or doing something disrespectful or offensive.
Example: His comment about her work was insulting.
Distinction: Can be intentional or unintentional and doesn’t necessarily involve lies.
Related to: Berating, belligerence, contentiousness (as it expresses hostility).
5. Belligerent
Definition: Aggressively hostile, ready to fight.
Example: His belligerent tone escalated the argument.
Distinction: More about a hostile attitude than a direct verbal attack.
Related to: Contentiousness, berating, insulting (as it conveys aggression).
6. Contentious
Definition: Prone to arguing or causing disputes.
Example: The meeting became contentious over budget decisions.
Distinction: Involves disputes and arguments but not necessarily personal attacks.
Related to: Belligerence, insulting, berating (as it suggests conflict).
7. Defaming
Definition: Damaging someone’s reputation, usually through false information.
Example: The article defamed the celebrity with baseless allegations.
Distinction: More general than slander and can include both spoken and written attacks.
Related to: Slandering, vilifying, calumniating, mudslinging (as all involve harming reputation).
8. Vilify
Definition: To speak or write about someone in a highly critical or abusive way.
Example: The press vilified the politician after the scandal.
Distinction: Can involve true or false statements but is always negative.
Related to: Defaming, slandering, calumniating (as it involves public criticism).
9. Calumniate
Definition: To make false and malicious statements to damage someone’s reputation.
Example: He calumniated his rival to ruin his chances of winning.
Distinction: Always involves falsehoods, making it more malicious than general vilification.
Related to: Defaming, slandering, vilifying, mudslinging (as it involves reputation damage).
Interconnections
- Mudslinging, slandering, defaming, vilifying, and calumniating all involve harming someone’s reputation. However: Slander is specifically spoken.
Defamation is broader and includes both spoken and written falsehoods. Vilifying can be truthful but is always negative.
Calumniating always involves lies.
- Berating, insulting, belligerence, and contentiousness involve aggressive or harsh speech. However:
Contentiousness is about disputes rather than outright hostility.
Belligerence suggests a combative attitude rather than mere verbal aggression.
Key Differences Between Terms
1. Mudslinging vs. Slandering vs. Defaming vs. Vilifying vs. Calumniating
Mudslinging: Broad, often political, includes both true and false attacks.
Slandering: Spoken falsehoods meant to harm someone’s reputation.
Defaming: A general term for reputation damage; can be spoken (slander) or written (libel).
Vilifying: Harsh criticism, not necessarily false, just very negative.
Calumniating: Always false, malicious, and intended to ruin a reputation.
Key Takeaways:
If it’s spoken, it’s slander.
If it’s written, it’s libel (under defamation).
If it’s negative but true, it’s vilification. If it’s negative and false, it’s calumny.
If it’s public and political, it’s mudslinging.
2. Berating vs. Insulting vs. Belligerence vs. Contentiousness
Berating: Harsh scolding, usually a oneway attack.
Insulting: Any disrespectful remark, can be mild or severe.
Belligerence: Aggressively hostile, can be verbal or physical.
Contentiousness: Argumentative rather than outright aggressive.
Key Takeaways:
If it’s yelling or harsh criticism, it’s berating. If it’s a single offensive remark, it’s insulting.
If it’s physically or verbally aggressive, it’s belligerence.
If it’s about constant arguing, it’s contentiousness.
Mila K. Marshall, PH.D. Contributing Writer
How Parks are Making Chicago Greener
The District released some impressive metrics in their first ever “Parks Are Making Chicago a Greener City” report in the final days of February. The nine-page document outlines various initiatives, projects and investments in natural areas made in 2024. The report is directly guided by the District's Five-Year Strategic Plan (2025-2030). Undergirding the plan is a commitment to equity and moving beyond traditional recreational roles for Chicagoans and towards well being, environmental stewardship, well being and operational excellence. Overall the vision is to have a healthier city through engaged communities through thoughtful stewardship and promotion of healthy food environments.
Chicago’s world class parks and beaches are part of what is often referred to as the city’s “green infrastructure”. Thousands of trees are rooted across 9,000 acres of parkland. In the summertime these trees provide much needed shade while also capturing carbon and helping fight back
against climate change. The District manages all parklands for the benefit of humans and nature. In 2024 an astonishing 64,000 nature, fishing, camping and paddling programs were offered making use of the wild wonders of the city. Over the next five years the District will be managing for long term environmental resiliency. These types of efforts show the interconnectivity of municipal operations as park greening supports the goals of Chicago’s 2022 Climate Action Plan.
Environmental resiliency and economic investment
Public park projects like the nearly completed Obama Center in Jackson Park, proposed Tyger Woods Golf Course and even the proposed NFL Bears stadium are reflections of how resiliency and economic development will continue to knock at the doorsteps of Southside Chicago. Public private partnerships have pitted the economic interests of Black homeowners and entrepreneurs against environmental interests.
Lawsuits against the Obama Foundation presented by Protect Our Parks argued for the trees and open space using the Public Trust Doctrine. Community members rebelled against efforts of environmentalists, which eventually was struck down allowing for construction of the Obama Center to continue. In recent years the beachfront economy has grown south of 12th Street Beach, bringing a number of eateries and events to light park infrastructure issues such as; access to toilets, public transportation, safety, adequate garbage cans and the red cans to dispose of hot coals into. Environmental stewardship and climate advocacy in the past have not been a strong focus. The natural amenities that provide cooling benefits like trees have long been known to be deficient on the South and West sides of the city, also home to concentrated Black people. We are 30 years away from the 1995 Heat Wave which in part was attributed to lack of trees, abundance of asphalt and sweltering overnight temperatures resulting in 514 heat-related deaths. Pools
stayed open later in the evening, swim apparel restrictions were listed and park closing hours loosely enforced.
What does green even mean?
Greening parks doesn’t just mean tree planting and watching birds. The District is planning to implement water and energy efficiency practices where applicable. Supporting environmentally friendly habits of visitors and vendors, working on flood mitigation, measuring environmental impact as well as exploring funding that would finance environmental resilience goals.
There are a growing number of opportunities for the health and greening of parks and beaches to be part of the resilience of local Black economies. However what was noticeably absent from the Strategic Plan and Greening Report was any mention of addressing costs or the business model of access to parks as resiliency is continuously invested in. It may be that it is beyond the scope of the plan and may be an opportunity for the business community to avoid gentrification.
Barbecue Chicken & Succotash
Oneof my favorite vegetable dishes is succotash, prepared the way my great-grandmother made it—just as my maternal grandmother and, of course, my mother did. All the women on my mother’s side could cook it.
My Native American great-grandmother said that it was a Native American dish. It originally started as a corn dish simmered with beans, squash, and fresh herbs—commonly known as the “three sisters.” Throughout the South, succotash was often prepared with bacon, pork belly, butter or cream, and fresh herbs. My family always served it with fried or baked fish. Others add their own special touch, just as you will eventually do once you fall in love with it.
The beauty of succotash is its flexibility—you can add whatever vegetables you have on hand, but corn is a necessity for it to truly be called succotash. It’s also a great way to use leftovers.
For me, succotash has always included fried okra, and I still get just as excited about it as I did growing up.
This dish, combined with the barbecue chicken sauce, will make you feel like it’s summertime—enjoying a
meal on the back porch, soaking in the best of the season. Because of its adaptability and rich history, succotash has endured over time, with each version taking on unique touches that set one recipe apart from another. Enjoy!
Preparation Time
Level: Easy
Total Time: 40 min
Prep: 10 min
Cook: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients
4 skin-on, bone-in chicken
breasts (about 2 pounds)
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
1/2 cup apple cider
1/4 cup ketchup
2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
1 tablespoon plus 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
3 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 Vidalia onion, chopped
1 bunch scallions, chopped (white and green parts separated)
1 red bell pepper, chopped
3 cups fresh or frozen corn kernels
1 pound fresh or frozen baby lima beans
1 cup sliced fresh or frozen okra
1/2 cup chopped red bell pepper
1 large garlic clove, minced
Kosher salt, to taste
Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 pint grape tomatoes
2 tablespoons sliced fresh basil
Directions
1. Roast the Chicken:
Position a rack in the upper third of the oven and preheat to 425°F.
Season the chicken with salt and pepper, then place it on a foil-lined, rimmed baking sheet.
Roast until the skin is golden and crisp, about 30 minutes.
2. Make the Barbecue Sauce:
• In a small saucepan, combine the apple cider, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, and 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard.
• Bring to a simmer over medium heat and cook, stirring, until slightly thickened, about 15 minutes.
3. Prepare the Succotash:
• Melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
• Add the scallion whites, bell pepper, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and a few grinds of black pepper. Cook, stirring, until the vegetables soften slightly, about 5 minutes.
• Add 1/4 cup water, the corn, lima beans, okra, and the remaining 1 teaspoon mustard.
• Bring to a simmer and continue cooking until the vegetables are tender, about 10 minutes.
• Stir in the scallion greens.
4. Finish the Chicken:
• Turn on the broiler.
• Brush the chicken with the prepared barbecue sauce and broil until the sauce is thick and bubbling, about 3 minutes.
5. Serve:
• Plate the chicken alongside the succotash and enjoy!
The Bigness of the ‘Little White Dress’
Thelittle white dress finds its roots in the early 19th century when white garments became popular for women during the summer months. This shift was largely influenced by Queen Victoria, who wore a white wedding dress in 1840, setting a lasting trend for bridal gowns. Her choice not only shaped wedding fashion but also left a broader impact on style, a tradition that has endured for 185 years.
Did it ever occur to you why brides wear white (or shades of cream and ivory) on their wedding day? Or did you assume that white symbolizes virtue, purity, and virginity? Well… the backstory is a bit different. England’s Queen Victoria wore a white dress to wed Prince Albert in 1840, and in true trendsetting fashion, she sparked the ‘white on your wedding day’ style that remains the norm in 2025.
However, the Queen didn’t wear white to symbolize purity or virginity—it was simply her favorite color and her personal choice for the occasion. The association between white dresses and a bride’s chastity came later, when Godey’s Lady’s Book—a popular 19th-century magazine—helped solidify the trend. By 1863, the magazine had fully embraced the concept of the ‘little white dress,’ appealing to Victorian moral standards, which emphasized sexual restraint, propriety, duty, family values, hard work, charity, and rigid gender roles. Women were expected to be the mistresses of domesticity, while men were seen as providers.
It’s no surprise that this culture idolized the untouched bride and the purity symbolized by white gowns. As Godey’s Lady’s Book declared: “It is the emblem of the purity and innocence of girlhood, and the unsullied heart she now yields to the chosen one.”
Yet, Victorian moral hypocrisy was a real issue, creating a stark gap between their idealized standards and reality—including child labor, widespread prostitution, and social limitations for women.
Before the White Dress Trend
Before Queen Victoria’s influence, brides simply wore their best dress, regardless of color. For much of history, white was unattainable for poorer-class brides—it was expensive and difficult to keep clean.
In fact, white was once associated with mourning in French royal traditions. This belief stemmed from Mary, Queen of Scots, who wore white to her wedding with the Dauphin of France in 1558. When her young husband died two years later, rumors spread that her white wedding gown had cursed him.
Queen Elizabeth I was also rumored to wear white in portraits as a symbol of mourning for a suitor who had died earlier in her life. She remained famously unmarried, earning the title of the “Virgin Queen.” Many believe her consistent choice to wear white was an intentional signal to other suitors that she was not interested in their proposals.
On the other hand, before the Victorian white-dress trend, many brides wore blue due to its association with the Virgin Mary. Blue symbolized purity and had a practical advantage—it was less likely to show stains. This may have been the origin of the tradition of wearing ‘something blue’ on a wedding day.
The Little White Dress Today
We’ve come a long way since then, yet white remains the classic choice for wedding dresses—and beyond. Enter the Little White Dress—a must-have for your wardrobe as we transition from the cold, snow-driven months into warm-weather days.
Investing in versatile white dresses is a timeless choice. The little white dress works for every occasion: dinner, an after-work soirée, an art gallery crawl, a jazz concert, or a late-night date. You can dress it up with black pumps, a structured bag, and a chic hat and gloves—or tone it down with metallic mules in gold, gunmetal, or silver, paired with fabulous jewelry. Be grand. Be victorious this spring and summer.
1. Bottega Veneta, flared mididress/ $3500
Saks Fifth Avenue
2. Bottega Veneta/ Cha Cha metallic sandals/$1150 bergdorf goodman
