August 31 - September 6, 2020 Vol. 28 No. 34
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WHERE THE PROTESTS END, OUR WORK BEGINS. For nearly a century, we’ve been working to promote racial justice. Help us achieve it once and for all. UntilJusticeJustIs.org
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Arts & (Home) Entertainment
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SportsWise
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The city is beginning to open back up, but most Chicago events and gatherings are cancelled until further notice. We are replacing our usual calendar with recommendations from StreetWise vendors, readers and staff to keep you entertained at home! Vendor Russ Adams discusses COVID-19 and Black-owned Businesses.
Cover Story: Black-Owned Businesses There used to be a time when people would have a hard time finding Black-owned businesses to patronize. Bigger companies have oppressed small business and placed burdens on low-income communities. Supporting Blackowned business can help close the racial wealth gap as well as give back to the communities that need it the most during the COVID-19 pandemic.
The Playground THIS PAGE: A customer walks up to the Chicago South Loop Hotel (Tata photo).
Dave Hamilton, Creative Director/Publisher
dhamilton@streetwise.org
StreetWiseChicago @StreetWise_CHI
Suzanne Hanney, Editor-In-Chief
suzannestreetwise@yahoo.com
Amanda Jones, Director of programs
ajones@streetwise.org
Julie Youngquist, CEO
jyoungquist@streetwise.org
Ph: 773-334-6600 Office: 2009 S. State St., Chicago, IL, 60616
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ARTS & (HOME) ENTERTAINMENT RECOMMENDATIONS Since being stuck inside, which shows have you been watching? Which movies? Have you read any good books lately? Any new music releases have you dancing in your living room? StreetWise vendors, readers and staff are sharing what is occupying their attention during this unprecedented time. To be featured in a future edition, send your recommendations of what to do at home and why you love them to: Creative Director / Publisher Dave Hamilton at dhamilton@streetwise.org
Explore New Music!
From Exile "From Exile" features music by and about people living in diaspora populations around the world. Videos include a new four-violin arrangement of the classic song Champa Battambang ("Flower of Battambang") by Cambodian singer Sin Sisamouth, a new four-violin arrangement of Todos Vuelven ("Everyone returns") by Peruvian composer César Miró, and Armenian folk songs as transcribed by the Armenian composer and ethnomusicologist Komitas. Each song has a special meaning for the diaspora populations with which it's associated. Other works come from composers of the African, Cuban, and Haitian diaspora populations including Tightrope by Chicago composer Regina Harris Baiocchi, entanglements by Orlando Jacinto García, and Solace by composer Gifrants. Each video features an introduction by the composer or another individual providing context for the music. The online solo video performances of "From Exile" are in lieu of the fifth program in Crossing Borders Music's six-concert series "Choosing Life and Freedom," featuring music by composers who responded to terrible tragedies with music, affirming life, and to oppression with music affirming freedom. Watch anytime at https://www.facebook.com/watch/CrossingBordersMusic/
(HOME) ENTERTAINMENT
Take an Art Walk!
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The People in Your Neighborhood Dont Fret, one of Chicago’s most recognizable street artists, has unveiled a new, large-scale art installation on the Chicago Riverwalk. Titled "The People in Your Neighborhood," the installation is located at the Riverwalk’s western most point, known as The Confluence between East Lake and North Franklin Streets, and features 55 portraits of Chicagoans, all portrayed in Dont Fret’s inimitable sardonic style. The unveiling is accompanied by the release of his new book, "Dont Fret: Life Thus Far." Offering a microcosmic reflection of Chicago’s scrappy and hard-working residents, the portrait subjects of The People in Your Neighborhood range from the well-known to the obscure. Designer and restaurateur Kevin Heisner stands alongside Claudio, Chicago’s beloved tamale vendor, who in turn rubs elbows with Maria, longtime owner of Maria’s Bridgeport and Howard Brown Health doctor Abby Baus. Each is depicted with both comedic and piercing insight, caricatures that are reminiscent of the archetypical Chicagoans who have lived in the city for generations. The portraits and subject bios can also be seen on Dont Fret’s Instagram page (instagram.com/dontfretart).
Binge This!
'Avatar: The Last Airbender' Avatar: The Last Airbender’s popularity resurfaced when Netflix added it on May 15. I remember watching this show every week on Nickelodeon when I was a kid, but I couldn’t remember everything that happened so I jumped on the bandwagon and rewatched it when it came out. After finishing the series, I can easily say that it’s one of my favorite shows of all time. The show centers on the last known airbender, Aang, who also happens to be the avatar. As the avatar, Aang has to keep the peace between the four nations: The Earth Kingdom, Fire Nation, Water Tribes and Air Nomads. I love this show because it is based on Inuit and Asian cultures and brings up topics like imperialism, sexism, censorship, colonialism, and refugees. There is incredible character development throughout the three seasons, and it even makes me appreciate the characters I despise. The characters and their struggles are well-written and unpredictable. Although it can carry hard topics, it still has the right amount of humor in each episode to balance things out. It’s a phenomenal and smart show for people of all ages, and it’s sure to make you emotional every time you watch it. -Recommended by StreetWise Intern Camille Baranda -Compiled by Dave Hamilton
Vendor Russ Adams chats with Executive Assistant Patrick Edwards about the world of sports.
Coronavirus and Black-owned businesses paint your nails six feet away? Or care for your kid at double-arm’s length? Patrick: A tough ask. Russ: Exactly. It’s very unfortunate. I mean, there are more reasons—ills… and false ills—but I won’t talk about those at the moment. What I will say is that Blacks exist in those certain areas that folks in leadership positions feel are the areas in which the people truly fear the virus, plus the people have less money; four months of shutdown, and a large portion literally without income, has been so overwhelming that 58% of Black households according to the NAACP report “They won’t make it”—while just 23% of white households describe their situation as such. Patrick: That’s a huge difference. To be honest, I would have never thought the number would be that high for Black households. Russ: Why? Patrick: If we have nothing else, we always have hope for better. At least, from what and who I know. Russ: I feel you. But we do have roadblocks to stutter and stall our improvement. We have to progress to get further into the game. Give us a few yellow lights instead of red ones and we may just make some things happen that not only elevate Blacks, but, also, elevate the whole of
our society. You know what I’m saying? Patrick: I do. Russ: Blacks and Hispanics are 40 percent of the US population but they own only 20 percent of the employer businesses, according to a February 2018 report for the Small Business Administration. Blacks and Hispanics were less likely to get business loans than Whites. Blacks, in fact, were more likely to use credit card debt. Patrick: Not a whole lot to say to that. Russ: Now, I realize this is SportsWise, so, yeah, all of this I’ve been speaking about applies to the many, many Black owners within the Black sports community. Not only are there Black owners who own teams that have been affected, but there are many Black players who also
own their own businesses, and who will suffer—though battle—through this tough moment in our world’s history. Patrick: Man, Russ…I wasn’t expecting all of this. You’re making me think. Feels weird. Both: (Laughing.) Russ: Nah, man…what it comes down to is EVERYONE is affected. When one person in a five-man group hurts, it destroys the team. That one person is an unrealized asset. Everyone has a part in this—sounds “We Are the World,” I know this, but listen when I say: Y’all, we’re in this thing together. We can not do it alone. If you have any comments or questions, please e-mail us at pedwards@streetwise.org
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SPORTSWISE
Patrick: Welcome to SportsWise, folks. This week, we, the SportsWise team, turn to the legendary—and only remaining founding member—Russ Adams, to give us his take on the status of Black Americans in regard to business ownership. Welcome to the floor, Russ. Russ: Thank you. I’m glad to be here, and even more glad that you and the folks out there want to hear my opinion of race-balancing in “regular” life, as well as in sports. Patrick: Let’s hear it. Speak. Russ: The number of Black businesses in the United States has plummeted more than 40% since the coronavirus shut down most of the economy. The pandemic, so far, has negatively affected Blacks more than any other race. As of April, the country has lost 450,000 Black businesses according to the Washington Post Patrick: Wow, that’s a lot of businesses—let alone within just one particular race. Russ: That is. I don’t know, man… Patrick: You do know. Go on. Russ: One of the reasons is that most Blacks own businesses like beauty salons, taxi services, daycares, and, of course, these had to shut down due to COVID-19. These are the jobs where social distancing is nearly impossible. How can someone
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Written & Compiled by Camille Baranda
SERVICES ASSATA’S DAUGHTERS
An organization of young African-American women speaking out against police violence. For administrative questions/concerns: ED@assatasdaughters.org For getting involved with campaigns: organizing@assatasdaughters.org www.assatasdaughters.org
PART 2: SERVICE & RETAIL
BLACK BOX CREATIVE
A marketing service that provides unique solutions to business development. 432 E. 46th Place #2 (312) 775-2269 blackboxcreative.com
BROWNSUGAR'S BALLOON DESIGNS & ACADEMY
Extravagant balloon decor for all occasions. Mon - Sat: 9 am - 7 pm Sunday: 9 am - 6 pm (773) 331-9367 BrownSugarBalloons@yahoo.com yshop.org/products/balloon-designs-and-academy See full profile on page 9
BUSINESS SOLUTION LENDING WORKING CAPITAL LOANS
1136 S. Delano Court Mon - Fri: 9 am - 6 pm Saturday & Sunday: Closed (800) 408-7870 http://businesssolutionlending.business.site
CHICAGO SOUTH LOOP HOTEL
11 W. 26th St. (312) 225-7000 cslfrontdesk@chicagoslh.com www.chicagosouthloophotel.com
CHRISTMAS IN THE WARDS
Chicago South Loop Hotel
An organization that helps give families and youth opportunities through scholarships, tools for education, technology gifts and more. 1030 E. 87th St. (773) 734-1600 www.christmasinthewards.com
Assata's Daughters
BLACK OWNED BUSINESS
There has been a lot of talk about supporting Black-owned businesses as of late. It is true that it is needed now more than ever, but the truth is, we should be supporting our local Black-owned businesses every day, not just in this time of need. We covered Black-owned restaurants 2 weeks ago, and this week we put together this handy listing, to help change our shopping habits and to support minority employers.
NWÄR STUDIOS Nwär Studios made its debut in August 2017 shortly after the owner, Chandra Davis, had gotten her professional license. Davis started the business in hopes of combatting typical beauty standards. Her willingness to provide an inclusive, welcoming and comfortable environment for her clients is something that drives her business forward. “I really wanted to create a space where it was okay for you to be yourself, it was okay for you to be different and it was okay for you not to be the traditional beauty standard,” Davis said. “And with that, I always chose photos that kind of reflected the everyday woman.” The pandemic took the world by storm, and it unfortunately affected numerous businesses. Many tried their best to keep going, but some were forced to close down. Although Davis’ business is fairly new, she was able to keep her shop open during the pandemic without many repercussions. She said that she’s grateful for “playing her cards right” and having opportunities to keep her shop alive. While the pandemic has negatively affected businesses, the Black Lives Matter movement was able to open doors for Black-owned businesses around the nation. People began posting about local Black businesses like Nwär Studios on social media platforms like Instagram and Facebook. “I’ve gotten a lot more traction and a lot more notice from the general public specifically because of this movement,” Davis said. “And it has been, by far, the best marketing I could get without having to pay for it.” Davis said she feels that the movement has helped bring the community back together by “fostering love and acceptance.” Nwär Studios provides waxing, lash extensions and facials. One of their most popular services is the Brazilian wax. Davis has also mentioned that she is planning to release a product line for skincare and body care that “focuses on melanin-rich skin care problems” like acne, scarring and discoloration. Anyone interested in the full list of services offered can check out the store’s website, nwarstudiosinc.com. “My website is basically like my front desk receptionist,” Davis said. “Everything has to go through the website - booking appointments, rescheduling, cancelling - it all has to be done via my website.” Clients can expect to receive four emails prior to their appointment to make sure they are fully prepared for it. She understands the pressures that can come with being in a beauty studio for the first time. “I’ve been in beauty studios where I can clearly tell that I’m not wanted,” Davis said. “I can clearly tell that there’s no one who’s going to service me for whatever reason. Maybe they don’t like my hairstyle or maybe they don’t understand it or I’m not their typical client. And I have always been very much against that. I feel like if you’re coming in for beauty treatment, it’s already such an intimate service and the last thing you want to do is alienate someone.” Davis has kept the business moving by opening up a second location a few months ago in the Dunning neighborhood. Opening another location in the middle of a pandemic might have been risky, but it has proven to be a good thing for the business.
DESKFLEX
A software company that provides efficient hotelling management software tools. 55 E. Jackson Blvd. Suite #1005 (847) 359-3990 sales@DeskFlex.com www.deskflex.com
GONE AGAIN TRAVEL & TOURS
Moses Hall, founder of MoHall Commercial & Urban Development
A brick and mortar travel agency that helps families figure out an affordable travel package and explore African cultures. 5940 W. Chicago Ave. (773) 417-8808 www.goneagaintravel.com
KNIGHT, MORRIS AND REDDICK LAW GROUP
A boutique firm that offers expertise in entertainment law, corporate law, commercial and residential real estate transactions. 333 S. Wabash Ave. Suite 2700 (312) 574 - 0181 kmrlawgroup@openmailbox.org kmrlawgroup.com
LATOYA THORN PHOTOGRAPHY
NEAT CLEANING SERVICES 7609 W Irving Park Rd. (773) 622-8127 neatcleaning@yahoo.com neatcleaningservice.com
Beauty and skincare products All services are by appointment-only at this time Ravenswood Location: 5204 N. Damen Ave. Dunning Location: 6055 W. Addison St. 11 am- 7 pm daily/ Ravenswood Location closed on Tuesdays Ravenswood: (312) 929-8379 Dunning: (773) 657-3187 hello@nwarstudiosinc.com nwarstudiosinc.com See full profile on page 7
OFFICIAL ANAIS PR FIRM
(708) 320-9815 Contact@OfficialAnaisPR.com
PATRICE’S PICTURE OF BEAUTY HAIR SALON 306 E. 75th St. (773) 723-0500
REGGIE’S TECH REMEDY LLC 8913 S Constance Ave. (872) 228-7713
THE CHICAGO DEFENDER
(312) 225-2400 chicagodefender.com
THE FROCK SHOP
Designer dress rentals. Currently operating online ONLY (inside A’Vents by August Studio) 5231 S. Harper Court (773) 243-9433 frockshopchicago.com
(312) 880-7606 www.latoyathornphotography.com
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Knight, Morris and Reddick Law Group
The Frock Shop
A law firm that offers legal services to small business owners and entrepreneurs. 150 N. Michigan Ave. UNIT 2800 (312) 371-9145 www.flourishcouncil.com
5234 S. Blackstone Ave. (773) 493-6028 Open: 9 am – 8 pm hydeparkhairsalon.com See full profile next page
1 N. State St. Suite 1500 (312) 826-9925 mohallcommercialud.com
NWÄR STUDIOS INC.
FLOURISH COUNSEL
HYDE PARK HAIR SALON
MOHALL COMMERCIAL & URBAN DEVELOPMENT Gone Again Travel & Tours
A legal service that provides lawyers for creative industries like the arts, entertainment and new media. 171 N. Aberdeen Suite 400 (312) 528-9259 creativegeniuslaw.com
Creative Genius Law Founder Patrice Perkins
CREATIVE GENIUS LAW
HYDE PARK HAIR SALON The Hyde Park Hair Salon has been a big part of its community since 1927. Although the business was bought by current owner Ishmael Coye, it still continues to thrive. Over the years, it has been known to attract celebrities from all over the world. “This shop with the reputation and history has seen a lot of influential people, even President Obama,” Coye said. “You know, that has really put Hyde Park on the map and the barber shop also. By him [President Obama] being a client for 20 something years. And his barber continues to cut his hair to this day.” Some other notable people that came to the barber shop were world famous boxer Muhammad Ali, former Chicago mayor Harold Washington and former football player Devin Hester. Coye started his journey cutting hair in high school. He didn’t realize it was something he wanted to do until someone saw his work and invited him into the shop. Eager to make some money while making use of his talents, Coye went on to get his license and become a professional. The Hyde Park Hair Salon does more than just cut and style hair. It has contributed to outside events and gained recognition because of it. “We’ve been involved with a lot of other things, so a lot of charities,” Coye said. “Bo Jackson charities and Danny Davis charities, things like that. So it’s a lot to be proud of.” It’s clear that the Hyde Park Hair Salon isn’t just any other barber shop. Customers can expect to find things in the shop that preserve its history like President Obama’s original chair that has been signed by him and is currently encased in glass. It’s things like these that have helped make the hair salon a tourist attraction. Its friendly and consistent hair service has kept it on the map for decades, and it continues to thrive to this day.
BROWNSUGAR'S BALLOON DESIGNS & ACADEMY Iesha Trotter is the owner of BrownSugar's Balloon Designs & Academy in Chicago and a graduate of the YWCA’s Plan for Profit course. Born in Chicago and raised on the South Side, Iesha always knew that she too could become an Englewood success story. At the age of 14, she began working for herself every summer selling snowballs where she could literally make a $100 day - pretty good for a kid! Today she is a Certified Party Decorator, specializing in weddings and graduations. BrownSugar’s Balloon Designs & Academy in Chicago recently became a member of the Qualatex Balloon Network (QBN®), a professional organization dedicated to the pursuit of excellence in balloon decor and bouquets. As QBN members, businesses commit to sound and honorable business practices, continuing education, and the belief that balloons create atmosphere and communicate emotion in a uniquely effective way. She attended Robert Morris University, where she obtained a Bachelor's Degree in Business Administration with a concentration in Management.
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Donna's Loving Doggy Palace, Inc.
Chatto Skin & Hair Care
RETAIL ABSOLUTELY ANYTHING ESSENTIAL
A shop that sells home decor and various fragrances. 3521 S. King Drive Thursday & Friday: 12 - 6 pm Saturday: 11 am - 6 pm Wednesday & Sunday: By appointment only 312-238-9447 www.absolutelyanythingessential.com
BEAUTIFUL SISTERS NAIL SPA
Beautiful Sisters Nail Spa
6722 S. Stony Island Ave. Monday - Tuesday: 10:30 am - 7 pm Wednesday: 10:30 am - 5 pm Thursday: 10:30 am - 7 pm Friday - Saturday: 10:30 am - 8 pm Closed Sundays (773) 359-4174 www.sisterspas.com
BON BON VIE
Absolutely Anything Essential
Bon Bon Vie
Clothing store that offers a variety of shirts, totes and mugs. (312) 342-4611 bonbonvieshop@gmail.com wearbonbonvie.com
CHATTO SKIN & HAIR CARE
2023 W. Carroll Ave. Tues - Fri: 9 am - 6 pm Saturday: 8:30 am - 4:30 pm Sunday & Monday: Closed (312) 640-0003 / 6400117 www.chatto.com
CRYSTAL-EYEZ MAKEUP & BEAUTY LOUNGE
1933 S Archer Ave, Chicago, IL 60616 Tues - Sat: 10am - 6pm Bisi@Crystal-Eyez.com www.crystal-eyez.com
DOC ABLE’S AUTO CLINIC
936 Chicago Ave., Evanston Mon – Fri: 8:00 am – 6:00 pm Saturday: 9:00 am - 2:00 pm (847) 475-3600 service@docable.com www.docable.com
DONNA'S LOVING DOGGY PALACE, INC.
Pet grooming services. 336 E. 103rd St. (773) 366-3393 www.facebook.com/ donnaslovingdoggypalaceinc/
GOGOVIE
Premium baby carriers. Monday - Friday: 9 am - 7 pm (833) GoGoVie Sales@GoGoVie.com GoGoVie.com See full profile page 13
JET MAGAZINE
www.jetmag.com
JORDAN’S BEAUTY SUPPLY
1911 E. 79th St. Tues - Fri: 9 am - 6 pm Saturday: 8 am - 3 pm (773) 734-6268 www.jordansbeautysupply.com
KIDO
Kids clothing and toy store In-store, shipping and curbside pickup available 1137 S. Delano Court Monday - Friday: 10 am - 6 pm Sunday: 12 - 5 pm (312) 285-2957 kidochicago@gmail.com www.kidochicago.com See full profile next page
KIDO Anyone looking for a kids clothing store that focuses on people of color can shop at Kido. The owner, Keewa Nurullah, started the business with her husband, Doug, in 2016. Her husband contributes creative ideas and designs while her cousin, Amanda, manages the store. Nurullah noted that she has two young kids, and was tired of the generic clothing designs that other stores offered, so she decided to start her own business. Kido makes sure that people of color feel seen. In addition to the fun new designs their clothing has, Nurullah mentioned that the kids modeling the clothes will always be children of color. But the representation doesn’t stop there. The shop offers a unique variety of children’s books written by authors of color, too. “We just try to stay ahead of what’s new and what’s current,” Nurullah said. “And we just, when you walk in, always want the store to be full of super cute and impeccably-illustrated books, but just featuring children of color or protagonists of color.”
Crystal-Eyez Makeuo & Beauty Lounge
According to Nurullah, Kido was also a spot for other families to connect. Its close proximity to downtown made it accessible to many tourists and other people in the area. “When the store was open before the pandemic, we would have a lot of events and classes and I think a lot of parents of color made connections in our store and made friends,” Nurullah said. “So we’re always thankful to be that for people, who want their kids to be around more children of color and make friends with families of color.” The pandemic forced Kido to offer to only online ordering and curbside pick-up for the first few months. They were only able to open their doors recently, and they’re making sure all staff and customers are abiding by the safety guidelines such as wearing masks. The Black Lives Matter movement helped the store gain some traction. Nurullah said she feels that customers have been proactive in searching for Black-owned businesses and supporting them. She believes that it has also helped the way the Black owners perceive their businesses. “I do think that the BLM movement has helped black business owners be more comfortable in just screaming it out,” Nurullah said. “That they are Black-owned and that that’s a positive thing, and that’s an accomplishment.” Nurullah started the company without much knowledge about the business industry, but she was able to learn and work her way up. It’s another accomplishment that she’s proud of as a new business owner. Her business may be small, but it’s doing great things for the community. Even in a time when people have to be distant, Kido rises up and makes sure families are still able to connect somehow. Nurullah’s drive and determination keeps the business running, and her creative products are sure to last a lifetime. “The things we carry in the store are always going to be more unique items that you don't find easily, that are just a little more precious for your child, that they can pass down to someone else,” Nurullah said. Kido Owners Keewa Nurullah and her husband Doug with their blended family..
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The Silver Room
SOLO BEAUTY SUPPLY
THE AMBER INN HOTEL
Kiwi's Boutique
3901 S. Michigan Ave. Open 24/7 (773) 285-1000
THE SILVER ROOM
Specializing in local and international home goods, music, jewelry, clothing, artwork and more! 1506 E. 53rd St. Mon–Fri: 11 am - 8 pm Saturday: 10 am - 8 pm Sunday: 10 am–6 pm (773) 947-0024 info@thesilverroom.com thesilverroom.com
KIWI’S BOUTIQUE
Luster Products Inc.
Clothing and accesories. 1015 S. Western Ave. Wed - Sat: 11 am - 7 pm Sun - Tues: Closed (312) 421-3322 info@kiwisboutique.com kiwisboutique.com
THE SILVER UMBRELLA
LAVENDER POP GREETING CARDS 1448 E. 52nd St. #247 (773) 858-0057 lavenderpop@sbcglobal.net
LUSTER PRODUCTS INC.
Hair products. 1104 W. 43rd St. (773) 579-1800 www. lusterproducts.com
A secondhand store that sells furniture, home goods, clothing for men, women and kids and more. 5305 S. Hyde Park Blvd. Tuesday – Friday: 11 am - 5 pm, By Appointment only Saturday: 11 am -5 pm, Walk-ins welcome Closed Sunday & Monday (773) 675-6114 info@thesilverumbrella.com thesilverumbrella.com
MY GIRLFRIEND'S PHOTOBOOTH
Photobooth rental and printing. (630) 216-9515 mygirlfriendsphotobooth.com See full profile next page
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The Silver Umbrella
8158 S. Cottage Grove Ave. Tues & Wed: 3 pm - 7 pm Thurs - Sat: 12 pm - 8 pm Sunday & Monday: Closed (773) 855-9003
Solo Beauty Supply
The Amber Inn Hotel
We couldn't possibly fit ALL Black owned businesses in only 16 pages. For more black-owned business, visit shopblack.io or coastapp.com/shopblackowned/chicago If you are a busness owner and you would like to add your business to the online version of this story, please contact our publisher, Dave Hamilton, at dhamilton@streetwise.org
GOGOVIE Holding the illustrious title as the first and only black women to create and manufacture a baby carrier in the US, Angelique Warner is a true trailblazer! Not unlike its creator, GoGoVie Premium Baby Carrier trail blazes as The ONLY Hybrid Sling and Soft Structured Baby Carrier offering reclined, semi-reclined, and upright positions. Warner describes her creativity in these words: “As an inventor, I have created and continue to create purposeful products that help improve healthcare outcomes for babies through babywearing, bonding and breastfeeding and improve the overall quality of life of the user who can now stay active in comfort. I am the patent-pending inventor of GoGoVie Premium Baby Carrier.” Enough said!
MY GIRLFRIEND'S PHOTOBOOTH Delisher Bankole has been a first responder for almost 3 decades. Missing family and community celebrations had become a way of life. With retirement on the horizon, this Chicago party girl was destined not to miss another corporate, family or community celebration. My Girlfriend’s Photobooth provides budget-friendly alternatives for lively entertainment for event managers, concert promoters and fundraising organizers. Bankole’s big idea began during the winter of 2015 while planning a monthly cocktail party fundraising agenda. She decided that it would be nice to have a photobooth just in case someone needed to rent one. After weeks of research, her 1st booth arrived late March 2015. By April 2016 she had acquired a 2nd kiosk. January 2017, she partnered with her manufacturer to work gigs for them in exchange for booth rental fees. Her strategic business partners (balloon decorators and up-lighting service providers) offered bundle packages to their customers renting her equipment and, sometimes, her staff. In her words: “Without any formal training, this has truly been a learn-as-yougrow journey. Each day I learn something new about myself or the industry, which pushes me closer to my goal.” Soulé
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STREETWISE VENDORS I never would have thought it would be exciting to be back to work selling StreetWise magazines, but it is. It is a thrilling experience to be back out there greeting our customers, be they new or regulars. We are social beings and we appreciate interacting with each other. Since the COVID-19 pandemic is still a concern, we must take precautions: to wear a face mask, to distance ourselves as much as possible, to wash our hands frequently and to cover our mouths when coughing or sneezing, considering safety for all. From my experience and knowledge as a field supervisor, most vendors enjoy their customers’ support and social interaction. We not only appreciate their support, but we love the connections we share while transacting a sale of the magazine through Venmo or cash. The art of socially connecting with someone we would not normally interact with is truly a blessing for both parties. Not only does it break down social barriers, it also gives us an opportunity to share our views on different social issues as well as magazine topics. The interchange and interlinkage we share is somewhat a special bond that only a vendor and customer share. If you don’t have a regular vendor, I recommend you find one because it is a one-of-a-kind experience. And not only that. Just think: you are contributing to helping a man or woman make an honest living. I am not sure if you are glad to be back to work, but you can still make yourself available to interact with a StreetWise vendor. They’re really great people: always polite and kind and respectful. Support your local StreetWise vendor and buy a magazine today. You can also save a life through encouraging and recommending a panhandler be self-supporting by selling StreetWise: a hand up, not a handout, helping the unemployed become selfemployed. Glad to be back working and writing. Also glad you customers are still out there communicating with our vendors. Thank you all for your support. -STREETWISE
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VENDOR A. ALLEN
Streetwise 7/20/20 Crossword numbers 1 to 9. Sudoku
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Solution
Solution
Find your nearest StreetWise Vendor at
1 Victory sign 4 Boot camp boss 9 Paul Bunyan’s ox 13 Price 14 Wept 15 Eager 16 Crumbs 17 Regroup, as a company 19 1968 hit Harper Valley ___ 20 Tilt 21 Lamb alias 22 Soak flax 23 At full speed 25 Bar, legally ©2020 PuzzleJunction.com 28 Skating jumps 62 Booty 7 EU language 30 Snout 63 Employ 8 Brink 32 Scouting 64 Urban center 9 Cast out outing 67 Teen follower 10 Flying 33 Ambition 68 Curved 11 Show ___ 35 Equipment molding 12 Dutch city 37 Puppy’s bite 38 Charlie Chan 69 Chris of tennis 13 Dried coconut 70 Jumble meat actor Toler 71 Pea holders 18 Pub offering 41 Drag, as a 72 Zealanders 20 Vegas lake attraction 43 Japanese coin 73 Psyches 24 Require 44 Miners’ finds Down 26 Dust Bowl 46 Compass pt. refugee 47 Free ticket 1 Whirlpool 27 Spirit 49 Dine 2 Property 29 Boy 50 Fort Knox bar 3 Aliens, for 31 Unadorned 54 Wonderland short 34 Paltry girl 4 Vamoose 36 Fight back 56 Frolics 5 Boxing venue 38 Close, as an 59 Kimono sash 6 Disorder envelope 60 Soft drink
39 Held firm 40 Calendar span 42 Family room 43 Watering hole 45 Pastry from Hamburg 48 Sports stats 51 Overcharged 52 Worry constantly 53 Layers 55 Tokyo, once 57 Watered-silk 58 Fence parts 61 Copied 64 Unkempt hair 65 Conceit 66 Egg cells 67 Buddy in Avignon
www.streetwise.org
How StreetWise Works
Our Mission
Orientation Participants complete a monthlong orientation, focusing on customer service skills, financial literacy and time management to become a badged vendor.
Financial Literacy Vendors buy StreetWise for $0.90, and sell it for $2. The profit of $1.10 goes directly to the licensed vendor for them to earn a living.
Supportive Services StreetWise provides referrals, advocacy and other support to assist participants in meeting their basic needs and getting out of crisis.
S.T.E.P. Program StreetWise’s S.T.E.P. Program provides job readiness training and ongoing direct service support to ensure participants’ success in entering the traditional workforce.
Soluti
THE PLAYGROUND
To empower the entrepreneurial spirit through the dignity of self-employment by providing Chicagoans facing homelessness with a combination of supportive social services, workforce development resources and immediate access to gainful employment.
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THE CHICAGO PREMIERE
THE MOST SPECTACULARLY LAMENTABLE TRIAL OF
MIZ MARTHA WASHINGTON James Ijames Directed by Whitney White By
The recently widowed “Mother of America”—attended to by the very enslaved people who will be free the moment she dies—takes us deep into the ugly and thorny ramifications of America’s original sin.
RADICALLY VULNERABLE, OUTRAGEOUSLY HILARIOUS
APRIL 2 – MAY 17 | steppenwolf.org | 312-335-1650 MAJOR PRODUCTION SPONSOR
2019/20 GRAND BENEFACTORS
2019/20 BENEFACTORS
