Meet Farley ‘Jackmaster’ Funk: 2024 Chicago Defender Men of Excellence Honoree
Farley “Jackmaster” Funk is an influential pioneer in the history of house music in Chicago. He was a prominent DJ and producer during the 1980s. Born Farley Keith Williams, he adopted the stage name Farley “Jackmaster” Funk as he rose to fame. Farley gained recognition for his DJ skills and his productions, which often featured a raw and energetic style that became characteristic of the Chicago house sound. One of his most famous tracks is “Love Can’t Turn Around,” a collaboration with vocalist Darryl Pandy, which became a
Jahmal Cole: Transforming Chicago’s Neighborhoods One Block at a Time
By Courtney Alexander Chicago native and trailblazer Jahmal Cole discussed the adversities in his life that inspired his activism journey, revitalizing Black communities in Chicago, and his social impact organization, which transforms and renews the lives of the youth and elderly. The mission statement of the notable Chicagoland non-profit organization My, Block, My Hood, My City is to inspire the youth, empower communities, and build a better world one block at a time. My Block, My Hood, My City is a social impact organization founded in 2013 by Jahmal Cole,
Bears CEO Hosts Business Leadership Council Meeting at Soldier Field
The Business Leadership Council recently held its Q2 General Membership Meeting at the iconic Soldier Field. The event was hosted by the Chicago Bears and the team’s President and Chief Executive Officer, Kevin Warren. Attendees were treated to an enlightening conversation with Warren and World Business Chicago Board Vice-Chair Charles Smith, which yielded valuable insights on leadership and community engagement strategies. Chicago State University Zaldwaynaka (“Z”) Scott also highlighted the work at CSU and shared how members can advocate for and support the institution’s ongoing success. Here are some
Alicia Carlisle of Chicago’s Turner Drew Academy Wins Prestigious Golden Apple Award
Turner Drew Language Academy students celebrate teacher Alicia Carlisle’s Golden Apple Award (Credit: Tacuma Roeback). Grade school children at the Turner Drew Language Academy on the South Side held pom poms or signs that read “#TeachGolden” but barely held onto their excitement over what would transpire at the school gym. As soon as the door flipped open and first-grade teacher Alicia Carlisle stepped into the room, it all came to a glorious head. They and staff members erupted. They cheered, shrieked, clapped and/or jumped because Carlisle, one of their
Illinois House Speaker Chris Welch Recommended to Serve as Committeeman
Illinois House Speaker Emanuel “Chris” Welch was unanimously recommended to serve as the new Proviso Township Committeeman in a meeting held this evening of the Executive Committee, replacing the late Karen Yarbrough. With the support of every local mayor, labor leaders from throughout the state, and active Democrats throughout the township, the Proviso Township Democratic Organization (PTDO) recommended to the Cook County Democratic Party that Speaker Welch be named Proviso Township Committeeman. Their recommendation is expected to be ratified by the full Cook County Democratic Party on Monday. “Karen
Dorri McWhorter: From Chicago Roots to Leadership Heights
Born in Chicago and raised between Racine, Wisconsin, and the South Side, Dorri McWhorter was destined for leadership. Her passion for advocacy and communications started early. At just 11 years old, she wrote a letter to Santa Claus, urging him to “keep people safe!” showcasing her selfless concern for others. It was at this time that she discovered her love for numbers and desire to become an accountant. McWhorter’s unwavering focus paved the path to inevitable success, and she accomplished her dream of becoming an accountant, working in the
Local Communications Strategist, Wynona Redmond to Serve as Who’s Who In Black’s Associate Publisher
Who's Who In Black Chicago returns to continue its longstanding tradition of celebrating the excellence of African American industry professionals within the Chicago community. The brand is pleased to have Wynona Redmond, President of Wyn-Win, serving as its Associate Publisher for its special events, programs, and content. Ms. Redmond is highly regarded for her 30 plus years of connecting corporations to communities. Through Wyn Win, she has provided strategic consulting to corporate, retail, healthcare, and faith-based clients. "We believe that in bringing Ms. Redmond on board, we have gained
Entrepreneurial from Birth: Keeana Barber’s Journey to Legacy and Success
Entrepreneurship often comes to people later in life after they've explored various paths in high school, college, and beyond. But for Keeana Barber, it was different. From the moment she entered this world until she could barely remember, the spirit of ownership coursed through her blood! Witnessing her mother's resilience as a businesswoman navigating the world of fashion and art was inspiring and empowering. Despite the hustle, her mother remained steadfast in her pursuit of success. Watching her mother balance ownership with raising a family fueled Barber's own aspirations. Moreover, observing her