Podcasts about east garfield park

Our Words & Music Podcast brings the Words of our speakers directly to you in podcast format. For the Last Words & Music of the 2024-25 Season presents:KirchhFestJoin us in Plymouth Hall for a joyful Celebration of Rev. Rich Kirchherr's 40+ years of faithful service and leadership! We're sending him off in style-with live music, big laughs, and plenty of love. Whether you've known him for decades or just want to be part of something special, come share joy (and maybe a few Hallelujahs) at KirchhFest!Words & Music will return in September for Our 2025-26 Season.All are welcome to join us at the intersection of pop culture and faith! Our monthly Words & Music programs take place typically on the 2nd or 3rd Sunday of the month at 5PM in Plymouth Hall from September to May! During these popular services, All In features songs interspersed with personal stories from guest speakers on a unique theme, and at every performance, a free will offering is collected to support ⁠⁠⁠⁠BANDWITH CHICAGO⁠⁠⁠⁠.Founded in 2015, BandWith is a Chicago-based non-profit organization whose mission is to provide lasting access to high quality music and performing arts instruction to underserved Chicago communities. Beginning in Chicago's East Garfield Park neighborhood, Bandwith is now providing free access to programs around dance, drumline, instrumental, choral ensemble and sound engineering activities.Find more of our Musical opportunities by going to:⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.wscongo.org/music/⁠

Our Words & Music Podcast brings the Words of our speakers directly to you in podcast format. For the Last Words & Music of the 2024-25 Season presents:KirchhFestJoin us in Plymouth Hall for a joyful Celebration of Rev. Rich Kirchherr's 40+ years of faithful service and leadership! We're sending him off in style-with live music, big laughs, and plenty of love. Whether you've known him for decades or just want to be part of something special, come share joy (and maybe a few Hallelujahs) at KirchhFest!Words & Music will return in September for Our 2025-26 Season.All are welcome to join us at the intersection of pop culture and faith! Our monthly Words & Music programs take place typically on the 2nd or 3rd Sunday of the month at 5PM in Plymouth Hall from September to May! During these popular services, All In features songs interspersed with personal stories from guest speakers on a unique theme, and at every performance, a free will offering is collected to support ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠BANDWITH CHICAGO⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.Founded in 2015, BandWith is a Chicago-based non-profit organization whose mission is to provide lasting access to high quality music and performing arts instruction to underserved Chicago communities. Beginning in Chicago's East Garfield Park neighborhood, Bandwith is now providing free access to programs around dance, drumline, instrumental, choral ensemble and sound engineering activities.Find more of our Musical opportunities by going to:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.wscongo.org/music/⁠

Our Words & Music Podcast brings the Words of our speakers directly to you in podcast format. For the Last Words & Music of the 2024-25 Season presents:KirchhFestJoin us in Plymouth Hall for a joyful Celebration of Rev. Rich Kirchherr's 40+ years of faithful service and leadership! We're sending him off in style-with live music, big laughs, and plenty of love. Whether you've known him for decades or just want to be part of something special, come share joy (and maybe a few Hallelujahs) at KirchhFest!Words & Music will return in September for Our 2025-26 Season.All are welcome to join us at the intersection of pop culture and faith! Our monthly Words & Music programs take place typically on the 2nd or 3rd Sunday of the month at 5PM in Plymouth Hall from September to May! During these popular services, All In features songs interspersed with personal stories from guest speakers on a unique theme, and at every performance, a free will offering is collected to support ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠BANDWITH CHICAGO⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.Founded in 2015, BandWith is a Chicago-based non-profit organization whose mission is to provide lasting access to high quality music and performing arts instruction to underserved Chicago communities. Beginning in Chicago's East Garfield Park neighborhood, Bandwith is now providing free access to programs around dance, drumline, instrumental, choral ensemble and sound engineering activities.Find more of our Musical opportunities by going to:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.wscongo.org/music/⁠

Our Words & Music Podcast brings the Words of our speakers directly to you in podcast format. Words & Music presents:COLORSSongs and stories come together in a rich, emotional spectrum -each hue telling its own tale. It'll be an unforgettable night of stories and songs in ever shade.All are welcome to join us at the intersection of pop culture and faith! Our monthly Words & Music programs take place typically on the 2nd or 3rd Sunday of the month at 5PM in Plymouth Hall from September to May! During these popular services, All In features songs interspersed with personal stories from guest speakers on a unique theme, and at every performance, a free will offering is collected to support ⁠BANDWITH CHICAGO⁠.Founded in 2015, BandWith is a Chicago-based non-profit organization whose mission is to provide lasting access to high quality music and performing arts instruction to underserved Chicago communities. Beginning in Chicago's East Garfield Park neighborhood, Bandwith is now providing free access to programs around dance, drumline, instrumental, choral ensemble and sound engineering activities.Find more of our Musical opportunities by going to:⁠https://www.wscongo.org/music/

Our Words & Music Podcast brings the Words of our speakers directly to you in podcast format. Words & Music presents:COLORSSongs and stories come together in a rich, emotional spectrum -each hue telling its own tale. It'll be an unforgettable night of stories and songs in ever shade.All are welcome to join us at the intersection of pop culture and faith! Our monthly Words & Music programs take place typically on the 2nd or 3rd Sunday of the month at 5PM in Plymouth Hall from September to May! During these popular services, All In features songs interspersed with personal stories from guest speakers on a unique theme, and at every performance, a free will offering is collected to support ⁠⁠BANDWITH CHICAGO⁠⁠.Founded in 2015, BandWith is a Chicago-based non-profit organization whose mission is to provide lasting access to high quality music and performing arts instruction to underserved Chicago communities. Beginning in Chicago's East Garfield Park neighborhood, Bandwith is now providing free access to programs around dance, drumline, instrumental, choral ensemble and sound engineering activities.Find more of our Musical opportunities by going to:⁠⁠https://www.wscongo.org/music/⁠

Our Words & Music Podcast brings the Words of our speakers directly to you in podcast format. Words & Music presents:COLORSSongs and stories come together in a rich, emotional spectrum -each hue telling its own tale. It'll be an unforgettable night of stories and songs in ever shade.All are welcome to join us at the intersection of pop culture and faith! Our monthly Words & Music programs take place typically on the 2nd or 3rd Sunday of the month at 5PM in Plymouth Hall from September to May! During these popular services, All In features songs interspersed with personal stories from guest speakers on a unique theme, and at every performance, a free will offering is collected to support ⁠⁠⁠BANDWITH CHICAGO⁠⁠⁠.Founded in 2015, BandWith is a Chicago-based non-profit organization whose mission is to provide lasting access to high quality music and performing arts instruction to underserved Chicago communities. Beginning in Chicago's East Garfield Park neighborhood, Bandwith is now providing free access to programs around dance, drumline, instrumental, choral ensemble and sound engineering activities.Find more of our Musical opportunities by going to:⁠⁠⁠https://www.wscongo.org/music/⁠

Our Words & Music Podcast brings the Words of our speakers directly to you in podcast format. Words & Music presents:COLORSSongs and stories come together in a rich, emotional spectrum -each hue telling its own tale. It'll be an unforgettable night of stories and songs in ever shade.All are welcome to join us at the intersection of pop culture and faith! Our monthly Words & Music programs take place typically on the 2nd or 3rd Sunday of the month at 5PM in Plymouth Hall from September to May! During these popular services, All In features songs interspersed with personal stories from guest speakers on a unique theme, and at every performance, a free will offering is collected to support ⁠⁠⁠BANDWITH CHICAGO⁠⁠⁠.Founded in 2015, BandWith is a Chicago-based non-profit organization whose mission is to provide lasting access to high quality music and performing arts instruction to underserved Chicago communities. Beginning in Chicago's East Garfield Park neighborhood, Bandwith is now providing free access to programs around dance, drumline, instrumental, choral ensemble and sound engineering activities.Find more of our Musical opportunities by going to:⁠⁠⁠https://www.wscongo.org/music/⁠

Our Words & Music Podcast brings the Words of our speakers directly to you in podcast format. Words & Music presents:Under One Roof Agreeing Isn't The PointSongs and stories of love, patience & tolerance.All are welcome to join us at the intersection of pop culture and faith! Our monthly Words & Music programs take place typically on the 2nd or 3rd Sunday of the month at 5PM in Plymouth Hall from September to May! During these popular services, All In features songs interspersed with personal stories from guest speakers on a unique theme, and at every performance, a free will offering is collected to support ⁠BANDWITH CHICAGO⁠.Founded in 2015, BandWith is a Chicago-based non-profit organization whose mission is to provide lasting access to high quality music and performing arts instruction to underserved Chicago communities. Beginning in Chicago's East Garfield Park neighborhood, Bandwith is now providing free access to programs around dance, drumline, instrumental, choral ensemble and sound engineering activities.Find more of our Musical opportunities by going to:⁠https://www.wscongo.org/music/

Our Words & Music Podcast brings the Words of our speakers directly to you in podcast format. Words & Music presents:Under One Roof Agreeing Isn't The PointSongs and stories of love, patience & tolerance.All are welcome to join us at the intersection of pop culture and faith! Our monthly Words & Music programs take place typically on the 2nd or 3rd Sunday of the month at 5PM in Plymouth Hall from September to May! During these popular services, All In features songs interspersed with personal stories from guest speakers on a unique theme, and at every performance, a free will offering is collected to support BANDWITH CHICAGO.Founded in 2015, BandWith is a Chicago-based non-profit organization whose mission is to provide lasting access to high quality music and performing arts instruction to underserved Chicago communities. Beginning in Chicago's East Garfield Park neighborhood, Bandwith is now providing free access to programs around dance, drumline, instrumental, choral ensemble and sound engineering activities.Find more of our Musical opportunities by going to:https://www.wscongo.org/music/

Our Words & Music Podcast brings the Words of our speakers directly to you in podcast format. Words & Music presents:Under One Roof Agreeing Isn't The PointSongs and stories of love, patience & tolerance.All are welcome to join us at the intersection of pop culture and faith! Our monthly Words & Music programs take place typically on the 2nd or 3rd Sunday of the month at 5PM in Plymouth Hall from September to May! During these popular services, All In features songs interspersed with personal stories from guest speakers on a unique theme, and at every performance, a free will offering is collected to support ⁠BANDWITH CHICAGO⁠.Founded in 2015, BandWith is a Chicago-based non-profit organization whose mission is to provide lasting access to high quality music and performing arts instruction to underserved Chicago communities. Beginning in Chicago's East Garfield Park neighborhood, Bandwith is now providing free access to programs around dance, drumline, instrumental, choral ensemble and sound engineering activities.Find more of our Musical opportunities by going to:⁠https://www.wscongo.org/music/

Our Words & Music Podcast brings the Words of our speakers directly to you in podcast format. Words & Music presents:Under One Roof Agreeing Isn't The PointSongs and stories of love, patience & tolerance.All are welcome to join us at the intersection of pop culture and faith! Our monthly Words & Music programs take place typically on the 2nd or 3rd Sunday of the month at 5PM in Plymouth Hall from September to May! During these popular services, All In features songs interspersed with personal stories from guest speakers on a unique theme, and at every performance, a free will offering is collected to support ⁠BANDWITH CHICAGO⁠.Founded in 2015, BandWith is a Chicago-based non-profit organization whose mission is to provide lasting access to high quality music and performing arts instruction to underserved Chicago communities. Beginning in Chicago's East Garfield Park neighborhood, Bandwith is now providing free access to programs around dance, drumline, instrumental, choral ensemble and sound engineering activities.Find more of our Musical opportunities by going to:⁠https://www.wscongo.org/music/

This time we are taking you back to East Garfield Park! This was a fun one with our friends, Black People Outside. This episode originally aired March 27, 2022Send us a textSupport the showCheck out our weekly newsletter! Also, catch Dario on the new season of Netflix's "High On the Hog" here!!If you have anything you'd like us to talk about on the podcast, food or history, please email us at ⁠media@77flavorschi.com⁠ WATCH US ON YOUTUBE ⁠HERE⁠! Visit our website ⁠https://www.77flavorschi.com⁠ Follow us on IG: 77 Flavors of Chicago ⁠@77flavorschi⁠ Dario ⁠@i_be_snappin Sara @sarafaddah

Homeownership is one of the most important vehicles for building generational wealth and helping families achieve economic stability; however, Black and Latinx families often face barriers to accessing and maintaining homeownership. Since The Chicago Community Trust launched its strategic focus on closing the Chicago region's racial and ethnic wealth gap in 2019, affordable and equitable homeownership has been a key priority.  Connecting Capital and Community (3C) is a community-driven initiative housed at the Trust that collaborates with partners across multiple sectors to test innovative solutions that will increase Black and Latinx homeownership in East Garfield Park and Humboldt Park. Learnings from 3C's work have also influenced the Trust's Advancing Innovative Homeownership Financing Solutions grant program that funds partnerships between CDFIs or credit unions and housing organizations to develop innovative financial products that strengthen the purchasing power of low-to-moderate-income borrowers. In this episode of Trust Talks, we will explore the work of 3C, how community-centered collaboration can help close the homeownership gap, and what role philanthropy plays in supporting these efforts.  This episode is hosted by Shandra Richardson, director of strategic initiatives for The Chicago Community Trust, and features Lynnette McRae, program director for Connecting Capital and Community (3C); Joanna Trotter, executive director of global philanthropy at JPMorgan Chase; Mindy Rueden, program director at Habitat for Humanity Chicago; and Tim Swanson, founder of Inherent L3C.Production by Juneteenth Productions. The podcast was recorded at the Sound Foundation.

Curtis Lefebvre shares why he left New York for the Windy City to start investing in Real Estate! Curtis jumps right in by getting granular on acquiring and stabilizing his first househack in East Garfield Park. He discusses everything from dealing with problem tenants to DYI'ing renovations. He dives into the numbers of his killer househack which allows him to not only live for free, but also cash flow while living there! Curtis defines the borders of the neighborhood, and with Mark's input, talks about the differences between East and West Garfield Park. Curtis justifies betting big on East Garfield Park by sharing his bullish outlook on the neighborhood! If you enjoy today's episode, please leave us a review and share with someone who may also find value in this content! Connect with Mark and Tom: StraightUpChicagoInvestor.com Email the Show: StraightUpChicagoInvestor@gmail.com Guest: Curtis Lefebvre | E-mail Link: Brian Lindstrom (Lender Referral) Link: SUCI Ep 195 - Victoria Barkate Sponsors:  Build Your Team and NEGC Remodeling ----------------- Guest Questions 03:02 Housing Provider Tip: Processes to prevent loss of lock keys and codes! 04:21 Intro to our guest, Curtis Lefebvre! 07:03 How did Curtis decide on which Chicago neighborhoods to invest in? 11:48 Curtis' experience acquiring his first rental property in Chicago! 21:39 Dealing with problem tenants. 25:30 DYI'ing renovations on the first property! 32:39 Curtis' bullish outlook on East Garfield Park! 36:04 Borders of East Garfield Park and Going West of the Park! 39:03 What is Curtis' competitive advantage? 39:28 One piece of advice for new investors. 39:40 What do you do for fun? 40:13 Good book, podcast, or self-development activity that you would recommend? 40:36 Local Network Recommendation? 41:17 How can the listeners learn more about you and provide value to you? ----------------- Production House: Flint Stone Media Copyright of Straight Up Chicago Investor 2023.

A collection at the Art Institute has increasingly come under scrutiny as the museum has faced questions about its commitment to ethical collections. Crain's contributor Elyssa Cherney and ProPublica's Steve Mills, who reported on the Art Institute's Alsdorf collection, talk with host Amy Guth about the story. Plus: Outcome Health founders skip taking the stand in their federal fraud trial, city picks projects to advance LaSalle Street apartment conversions and backs plan for $47 million housing project in East Garfield Park, and bill to OK windmills in Lake Michigan gains major steam in Springfield.

Alicia Nesbary Moore is Chief Veggie Officer of Herban Produce. A native of Richton Park, Illinois, Nesbary Moore is an urban farmer in Chicago’s East Garfield Park neighborhood. Trained as a molecular biologist, Nesbary Moore oversees the cultivation of crops for her business. It was her vision to help bring new life and economic opportunity to her community, that has historically been a food desert. Nesbary Moore, a graduate of the University of Illinois, holds a Master’s degree in molecular biology, with a specialty in genetics and plant science, from Chicago State University. She also teaches science and urban agriculture at the City Colleges of Chicago. She is married to her husband JeVon and mommy to her 1 year old daughter Sevyn. The First Time is hosted by Jenn Sodini. Produced by Julie Mueller and Bobby Evers. Podcast produced by Andy Vasoyan and Jenn Rourke. Recorded by Tony Baker.

Sirenzo Strong spends his work days trying to talk to gang members in Chicago's East Garfield Park neighborhood. Part of his turf is the site of a former housing complex, Rockwell Gardens. When former residents return to the old neighborhood, so do the old gang allegiances and grudges.

Also in the news: 14 shot in East Garfield Park were holding a vigil at time of shooting; Taylor Swift to stop in Chicago this summer; Rogers Park and Evanston team up to improve Howard Street corridor and more.

Also in the news: 14 shot in East Garfield Park were holding a vigil at time of shooting; Taylor Swift to stop in Chicago this summer; Rogers Park and Evanston team up to improve Howard Street corridor and more.

Also in the news: 14 shot in East Garfield Park were holding a vigil at time of shooting; Taylor Swift to stop in Chicago this summer; Rogers Park and Evanston team up to improve Howard Street corridor and more.

On today's episode, your hosts, Katie Maxwell and Lauren Paris—two twenty-somethings who very much do not have kids—chat with two of their colleagues who do! Rev. Brian Sauder—our trusty Executive Director—joins us for the first time on the pod to talk with us about how parenthood has shaped his work on climate justice. He recently wrote an article for Crain's Chicago Business which you can read here: https://www.chicagobusiness.com/crains-forum-energy/climate-equitable-jobs-act-answer-illinois-energy-needs-minister-writes Returning guest, Christina Krost, joins us first to break down how the current political climate is affecting her own family. This week's episode was produced by Brógan Malloy. Please rate, review, or share this podcast with someone who might enjoy it. We can be found on all the major platforms including: iTunes, Spotify, Google Podcasts, and Stitcher. If you enjoy this podcast, please support the work of Faith in Place by donating! Please go to https://www.faithinplace.org/donate. **Bios!** Christina Krost (long o, rhymes with "most") grew up in suburban Detroit and holds a Bachelor of Arts from Albion College and an MAT from Marygrove College. She taught in both public and private schools in Illinois and Michigan for 10 years before starting her ministry in creation justice. She joined Faith in Place in March 2015 to organize Houses of Worship around smart energy programs in Central and Southern Illinois. In addition to her work at Faith in Place, she is Vice President of the Illinois Great Rivers Conference United Methodist Women and Chair of her conference's Church & Society board. She is married to Todd, an ordained elder in the United Methodist Church, and has 3 daughters. The family lives in Mattoon, IL. **** Rev. Sauder serves Faith in Place out of the Chicago office as the President & Executive Director. The entrepreneurial vision and confident leadership of Rev. Sauder is exponentially growing the impact of Faith in Place's mission to empower people of all faiths across Illinois to be leaders for cleaner environments and healthier communities. Rev. Sauder's passion is empowering faith communities across Illinois to take measurable steps to connect the dots between faith, environmental justice, poverty, mass incarceration, race, violence, class, and health. His leadership is recognized as an award recipient of the University of Illinois's Business School's Community Scholar and a Central IL Business 40 Under 40 winner as well as a 2019 Midwest Energy News' 40 Under 40. He grew up in Illinois in rural Tazewell County and received his Bachelor of Science from the University of Illinois in Natural Resources and Environmental Sciences, Master of Arts in Religion from Urbana Theological Seminary, and Master of Business Administration from the University of Illinois. Rev. Sauder is ordained by the Mennonite Church U.S.A. and worships with Chicago Community Mennonite Church in East Garfield Park. Rev. Sauder also serves as an Adjunct Professor at both McCormick Theological Seminary and Garrett-Evangelical Theological Seminary, teaching public ministry courses for future clergy and faith-based leaders on organizing for environmental justice.

This week we are in East Garfield Park with our friends from Black People Outside, Chevy & Cam!! They are absolutely hilarious! We had a fun day at the Garfield Park Conservatory and talk history! We have some delicious soul food from a local favorite, Creed On Lake. Shout out to the owner, Tina, and Dee Dee, were very nice and really make some great food! Tune in and learn with us! Thank you to our partner, Choose Chicago! #capturetheexcitement You can also donate and help fight food insecurity around the city with Dion's Chicago Dream HERE! WATCH US ON YOUTUBE HERE! Follow us on IG: 77 Flavors of Chicago @77flavorschi Dario @dariodcomedy Sara @TamarHindi.s --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/77-flavors-of-chicago/support

Reset talks with one East Garfield Park resident about how she turned her family's land into a growing community space where everyone can benefit.

"Our mission is to empower and connect people through the healing practice of glassblowing and ceramics. We serve those who have been impacted by structural or individual trauma, including violently injured youth, veterans, formerly incarcerated individuals, undocumented and immigrant populations and Chicago Public School students on the South and West sides. Firebird Community Arts offers highly personalized ceramics and glass blowing instruction from our warehouse-turned-art studio located in Chicago's East Garfield Park neighborhood. We deliberately relocated to be closer to, and of better service to, the Chicago communities most in need of affordable, high-quality arts instruction and a safe space within which to practice art as a tool for healing." Firebird Community Arts      RESOURCES   | Guest Websites: https://www.firebirdcommunityarts.org/| Podcast Page: https://americanhandcraftedshow.com/podcast   | American Handcrafted:   https://americanhandcraftedshow.com     

How can we save kids from gun violence in America? Pearl Dick is the Artistic Director of PROJECT Fire, a healing arts program for victims of gunshot violence in Chicago. As the flagship healing arts program at Chicago’s Firebird Community Arts (FCA) Program in East Garfield Park, it helps kids who suffer from SELF: a fear for their safety, emotional trauma and anger, loss from injury and a limited sense of the future. Pearl is a visionary leader who offers lessons of the power that lives within each of us to change the world. She shares the compelling stories and program practices transforming lives through the arts, community, hope and reimagined futures. Opening hearts and changing minds, this is her story.

Our Host J. Ruffin connects with Mick Dumke a Reporter/Columnist with ProPublica Illinois/Midwest. The discussion centers around Mick's article "How a Chicago Political Hangout Went From Bustling to Boarded Up-Even After the City Promised Help". This is a follow-up to our previous Episode with Tony Briscoe on the East Garfield Park neighborhood in Chicago.ProPublica Illinois Discussed ArticleMick.Dumke@propublica.orghttps://twitter.com/mickeyd1971

Mike Stephen discusses the legacy of local disinvestment in East Garfield Park with Mick Dumke of ProPublica Illinois, talks with Ai-jen Poo, co-founder of the National Domestic Workers Alliance, about domestic workers rights, and learns the Secret History of local drummer Dave Tough. And in the OTL Wrap Party segment, Mike and Producer Collin reflect on the show and remember the humble origins of Nate Silver when he was a guest on OTL thirteen years ago. The local pandemic tunez come from The Cheap Soap.

Tony Briscoe LinkedInTony @ ProPublica: tony.briscoe@propublica.orgTweet Tony @_tonybriscoeDisinvested (ProPublica Illinois)East Garfield ParkChi City: Common 

In Edible-Alpha® podcast #78, Tera is joined by Mark and Judy Thomas, co-founders of Garfield Produce Co., an indoor vertical farm and wholesale food operation in Chicago. The “failed retirees” started this for-profit business/social enterprise in 2014 to provide job opportunities for people with employment barriers. Following successful careers—Mark as a newspaper production leader, Judy as a corporate lawyer—the Thomases volunteered at a food bank and shelter in East Garfield Park, one of Chicago's roughest areas. Through their service, they learned that many in this neighborhood struggled to find jobs nearby, especially men who'd been incarcerated. Mark had been wanting to start a business, so they decided to launch an urban hydroponic farm right in this neighborhood, hoping it could open doors for people recently out of prison and ready to build a better life. Given their social mission, the Thomases could've gone the nonprofit route. Instead, they tapped into their business and accounting acumen and made Garfield Produce a for-profit venture. As Mark explained, this ensured a focus on revenue, expenses, bottom line and careful growth and would allow them to share equity with employees if the business proved successful. Tera commended their approach, noting that many urban agriculture entrepreneurs, while well intended, grapple with the business side and don't end up making it. After constructing a food-safe climate-controlled grow room with the help of grants, Mark and Judy determined that microgreens made the most sense to grow. As specialty products, microgreens command a much higher price than commodity produce and appeal to high-end chefs looking for consistent, top-quality supplies. The Thomases' business plan, including their focus on the foodservice channel, worked wonderfully. Garfield Produce amassed a large clientele while providing great job opportunities locally. By the beginning of 2020, the company was finally in the black. Then came COVID-19. When Illinois's governor ordered all restaurants to close in March, Garfield Produce's sales sank 95% overnight. Fortunately, the company received government grants and loans and was selected for the USDA Farmers to Families Food Box program, all of which kept the business alive through the fall. Now, as the pandemic persists and restaurants remain closed or at limited capacity, the company is building up its e-commerce and retail channels to reach more consumers and exploring growing baby greens to appeal to a wider audience. Through it all, Garfield Produce has maintained what Mark called “the best, most self-directed work team I've ever had.” That's high praise, seeing as Mark once oversaw some 7,000 employees. The Thomases have proven that, beyond just giving ex-cons a chance, working closely with them to develop their job skills and practicing open-book management increases employee engagement and teamwork. Mark and Judy are excellent examples of how leading with empathy and emphasizing self-empowerment can transform lives while also benefiting the bottom line.

In Edible-Alpha® podcast #78, Tera is joined by Mark and Judy Thomas, co-founders of Garfield Produce Co., an indoor vertical farm and wholesale food operation in Chicago. The “failed retirees” started this for-profit business/social enterprise in 2014 to provide job opportunities for people with employment barriers. Following successful careers—Mark as a newspaper production leader, Judy as a corporate lawyer—the Thomases volunteered at a food bank and shelter in East Garfield Park, one of Chicago’s roughest areas. Through their service, they learned that many in this neighborhood struggled to find jobs nearby, especially men who’d been incarcerated. Mark had been wanting to start a business, so they decided to launch an urban hydroponic farm right in this neighborhood, hoping it could open doors for people recently out of prison and ready to build a better life. Given their social mission, the Thomases could’ve gone the nonprofit route. Instead, they tapped into their business and accounting acumen and made Garfield Produce a for-profit venture. As Mark explained, this ensured a focus on revenue, expenses, bottom line and careful growth and would allow them to share equity with employees if the business proved successful. Tera commended their approach, noting that many urban agriculture entrepreneurs, while well intended, grapple with the business side and don’t end up making it. After constructing a food-safe climate-controlled grow room with the help of grants, Mark and Judy determined that microgreens made the most sense to grow. As specialty products, microgreens command a much higher price than commodity produce and appeal to high-end chefs looking for consistent, top-quality supplies. The Thomases’ business plan, including their focus on the foodservice channel, worked wonderfully. Garfield Produce amassed a large clientele while providing great job opportunities locally. By the beginning of 2020, the company was finally in the black. Then came COVID-19. When Illinois’s governor ordered all restaurants to close in March, Garfield Produce’s sales sank 95% overnight. Fortunately, the company received government grants and loans and was selected for the USDA Farmers to Families Food Box program, all of which kept the business alive through the fall. Now, as the pandemic persists and restaurants remain closed or at limited capacity, the company is building up its e-commerce and retail channels to reach more consumers and exploring growing baby greens to appeal to a wider audience. Through it all, Garfield Produce has maintained what Mark called “the best, most self-directed work team I’ve ever had.” That’s high praise, seeing as Mark once oversaw some 7,000 employees. The Thomases have proven that, beyond just giving ex-cons a chance, working closely with them to develop their job skills and practicing open-book management increases employee engagement and teamwork. Mark and Judy are excellent examples of how leading with empathy and emphasizing self-empowerment can transform lives while also benefiting the bottom line.

You know when things are just meant to be? i feel that with my relationship with Shalom. When I first moved to Chicago, I was searching for volunteer opportunities with highschool kids and stumbled on Breakthrough, where Shalom was leading a girl's mentoring program. I cherish her HUGE heart to help others, am amazed by her artistic talent, and love her openness to talk to me from a different perspective of racial inequality and mental health. Things we covered: Our Hands Ceramic - her amazing artworkBreakthrough - an organization to work with those in East Garfield Park, ChicagoHealthy Hood - An organization that is all about exercising the body, educating the mind and awakening the consciousFOOD placesGarifuna Flava Pizza DuePequods #sliceupyourlife … join in on the conversation wherever you are!Music is by Gillcuddy.http://www.sliceslicebaby.net/slice-up-your-life

Edra Soto is a Puerto Rico born, Chicago based, interdisciplinary artist, educator and curator whose architectural projects connect with communities. Soto's temporary modular SCREENHOUSE pavilions are evocative symbols of her cultural assimilation that we can enter and share. Each free-standing structure functions as both sculptural object and social gathering place. Couched in beauty, her ongoing OPEN 24 HOURS project offers a different visceral encounter — with evidence of displacement and want. The aesthetic display of cast-off liquor bottles culled from steadily accumulating detritus in the historically Black neighborhood she now calls home suggests that we consider the personal and communal impact of poverty and racism. During a studio visit with the artist in Northwest Chicago, we talk about recent iterations of these projects. In concert with the 2019 Chicago Architecture Biennial, the Millennium Park Foundation commissioned the artist to produce a temporary gathering place in one of the park’s outdoor galleries. Only steps from Anish Kapoor’s Cloud Gate, she worked with a team to construct SCREENHOUSE. The 10-foot high pavilion made of 400 charcoal-hued, 12-inch cast concrete blocks is part of an ongoing project, an architectural series inspired by iron grills and decorative concrete screen blocks found throughout the Caribbean and the American South. New versions of OPEN 24 HOURS are on view in two 2020 exhibitions. One appears in Open House: Domestic Thresholds at the Albright-Knox Museum, in Buffalo, New York. Cognac bottles carefully arranged on shelves with decorative panels reveal the artist’s connection to two places she calls home. More liquor bottles command attention in the three-part installation she designed for State of the Art 2020. Featuring work by artists from across the United States, the exhibition celebrates the opening of The Momentary, a new contemporary art space at the Crystal Bridges Museum, in Bentonville, Arkansas. Sound Editor: Anamnesis Audio  Related Episodes and Photo Features: Architecture with a Sense of Place, Views—Chicago Architecture Biennial 2019, Fresh VUE: Chicago Art and Architecture 2017 Related Links: Edra Soto, The Momentary, State of the Art 2020, Crystal Bridges Museum of Art, Knox-Albright Museum, Millennium Park, Chicago Architecture Biennial 2019 About Edra Soto: Born in Puerto Rico and based in Chicago, Edra Soto is an interdisciplinary artist, educator, curator, and co-director of the outdoor project space THE FRANKLIN. She is invested in creating and providing visual and educational models propelled by empathy and generosity. Her recent projects, which are motivated by civic and social actions, focus on fostering relationships with a wide range of communities.  Recent venues presenting Soto’s work include Chicago Cultural Center (IL), Nerman Museum of Contemporary Art (KS), Pérez Art Museum Miami (FL), Museo de Arte de Puerto Rico (PR), Hunter EastHarlem Gallery (NY), UIC Gallery 400 (IL), Smart Museum (IL), Bemis Center for Contemporary Art (NE), DePaul Art Museum, and the Museum of Contemporary Art of Chicago (IL). Soto was awarded the Efroymson Contemporary Arts Fellowship, the DCASE for Individual Artist Grant from the City of Chicago, the 3Arts Make A Wave award, and 3Arts Projects grants, and the Illinois Arts Council grant.  Soto holds an MFA from The School of the Art Institute of Chicago, and a Bachelor of Arts from Escuela de Artes Plásticas de Puerto Rico. She teaches Introduction to Social Engagement at University of Illinois in Chicago and is a lecturer at the School of the Art Institute of Chicago.  About SCREENHOUSE: Decorative screens, known as rejas and quiebrasoles, are ubiquitous in Soto’s birthplace in Puerto Rico. In her SCREENHOUSE series, Soto transforms the quiebrasol form from a planar screen that divides public from private into a nearly fully enclosed, free-standing structure that functions as both sculptural object and social gathering place. About OPEN 24 HOURS: Witnessing the excessive accumulation of litter and detritus in the historic African American neighborhood of East Garfield Park where she lives motivated Edra Soto to initiate this ongoing project. Since December 2016, Soto has been collecting, cleaning and classifying cast-off liquor bottles to create installations that display the impact of racism and poverty on this marginalized community in Chicago. Bourbon Empire, the book quoted below, recounts the historic connection between African Americans and cognac from its genesis in the 1930s to contemporary repercussions instigated by hip-hop and rap culture. “Cognac’s relationship with African American consumers started later, when black soldiers stationed in southwest France were introduced to it during both world wars. The connection between cognac producers and black consumers was likely bolstered by the arrival of black artists and musicians... France appreciated these distinctive art forms before the U.S. did, continuing a French tradition dating back to Alexis de Tocqueville of understanding aspects of American culture better than Americans did. For African Americans, the elegant cognac of a country that celebrated their culture instead of marginalizing it must have tasted sweet ... During the 1990s, cognac sales were slow, and the industry was battling an image populated by fusty geriatrics. Then references to cognac began surfacing in rap lyrics, a phenomenon that peaked in 2001 with Busta Rhymes and P. Diddy’s hit “Pass the Courvoisier,” causing sales of the brand to jump 30 percent. During the next five years, other rappers teamed up with brands, and increased overall sales of cognac in the U.S. by a similar percentage, according to the Distilled Spirits Council of the United States.” —Reid Mitenbuler, author of Bourbon Empire: The Past and Future of America’s Whiskey

Resita Cox has spirit, and she wants to share it. In her two and a half years in Chicago, the poet and story-shaper has built relationships and collaborations that have resulted in some of the most compassionate and engaging new spaces in the city, from the People Say open mic at Trap House Chicago to the documentary about development and revitalization in East Garfield Park that she's currently directing as an IVOH fellow. She holds on as Damon and Daniel bounce around between media and the civil rights movement, damage-based versus desire-based journalism, the majesty of an Anton, and some of AirGo's best jokes ever. Plus, an extraordinary story at the end that's well worth sticking around for. Recorded 7/3/19 in Chicago Music from this week's show: Beat Cook It Up - J Blanked

Sermon delivered by Rev. Brian Sauder on May 26, 2019. In this message, UT member Scott Metzger talks about his work with the Eco Justice Faith in Action Team. Then, Rev. Sauder explores the theme of curiosity and courage by sharing more about his journey in growing the impact of Faith in Place alongside diverse faith communities such as Unity Temple. Rev. Sauder is the President & Executive Director of Faith in Place (www.faithinplace.org). His passion is empowering faith communities across Illinois to take measurable steps to connect the dots between faith, environmental justice, poverty, mass incarceration, race, violence, class, and health. Rev. Sauder is ordained by the Mennonite Church U.S.A. and worships with Chicago Community Mennonite Church in East Garfield Park. He also serves as an Adjunct Professor at Garrett Theological Seminary, co-teaching an environmental certification course for future clergy. The theme for May is what it means to be a people of curiosity. To read about our theme-based ministry, please visit http://www.unitytemple.org/faith-development/soul-connections on our website.

Today on Crain’s Daily Gist, host Amy Guth talks with Crain’s Chicago Business residential real estate reporter Dennis Rodkin about this week's big real estate news, including a new study on eviction rates in Chicago and a look at the Rostenkowski family compound in Noble Square. Plus: The Trumps seek to block subpoenas for Deutsche Bank records, Uber's eyeing a massive Post Office lease, here's where Chicago companies land on the Fortune 500, Chicago firms Citadel Securities and Jump invest in Small Exchange, and an affordable housing developer is tapped for an environmentally-friendly East Garfield Park project. Continue the conversation with #CrainsDailyGist.

We sit down with Lindsay Fredrickson from the Chicago Arts and Music Project to talk teaching music in East Garfield Park, the importance of direct communication and listening, El Sistema… The post Scapi Radio 10.31.18 Chicago Arts And Music Project appeared first on Scapi Magazine.

Melkbelly—comprised of Miranda Winters (guitar and vocals), Bart Winters (also guitar, and Miranda’s husband), Liam Winters (a bassist and Bart’s brother), and James Wetzel (drums)—recently sat down with the Weekly's Erisa Apantaku in a cozy practice space in East Garfield Park. Amongst Christmas lights, a number of effects pedals, and jamming from adjacent practice rooms, Melkbelly’s members shared their feelings about their recent tours—headlining in Europe and supporting bigger names like Protomartyr and The Breeders—and provided a new meaning to the term yard sale. Songs heard during this interview were "Off The Lot," "Kid Kreative," and "Cawthra," all from Melkbelly's 2017 album NOTHING VALLEY. The bumper at the beginning of the segment featured SSW reporter Bridget Vaughn and the Chicago band Malafacha and was produced by Jed Lickerman. For more news, visit www.southsideweekly.com.

Sermon delivered by Rev. Brian Sauder on April 22, 2018. In this Earth Day sermon, Rev. Sauder lifts up a Tillichian theme of mutual priesthood by sharing his journey as the President of Faith in Place. Our faith traditions provide the tools of emergence for personal spiritual transformation. It is this spiritual transformation that further allows people of faith to lead the environmental movement to new heights of impact. Rev. Sauder is the President & Executive Director of Faith in Place. His passion is empowering faith communities across Illinois to take measurable steps to connect the dots between faith, environmental justice, poverty, mass incarceration, race, violence, class, and health. Rev. Sauder is ordained by the Mennonite Church U.S.A. and worships with Chicago Community Mennonite Church in East Garfield Park. He also serves as an Adjunct Professor at McCormick Theological Seminary, co-teaching an environmental certification course for future clergy. The theme for April is what it means to be a people of emergence. To read about our theme-based ministry, please visit http://www.unitytemple.org/faith-development/soul-connections on our website.

GUEST As the Faith in Place President and Executive Director, Rev. Sauder’s passion is empowering faith communities across Illinois to take measurable steps to connect the dots between faith, environmental justice, poverty, mass incarceration, race, violence, class, and health. He grew up in Illinois in rural Tazewell County and received his B.S. from the University of Illinois in Natural Resources and Environmental Sciences, M.A. in Religion from Urbana Theological Seminary, and M.B.A. from the University of Illinois. Rev. Sauder is ordained by the Mennonite Church U.S.A. and worships with Chicago Community Mennonite Church in East Garfield Park. He also serves as an Adjunct Professor at McCormick Theological Seminary, co-teaching an environmental certification course for future clergy. OVERVIEW Brian and BrownTown discuss the bottom-up, decentralized organizing model of Faith in Place, the pros and cons of preaching with privilege, and politicizing audiences pre- and post-Trump. After BrownTown learns more about Brian’s journey as an organizer through his faith, the group analyzes how capitalism, consumerism, and militarism inform white supremacy. How does this create and sustain harmful environmental injustices? What we can do to combat it? Here's BrownTown's take. -- Learn more about Faith in Place's work on their site, Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram as well as their affiliate Action Fund on their site, Facebook, and Twitter. For more Faith in Place news and upcoming actions, visit FaithinPlace.org/News. -- CREDITS: Intro song Forbidden Knowledge by Raury ft. Big K.R.I.T. Outro song God's Plan by Drake. Audio engineered by Genta Tamashiro. -- Bourbon ’n BrownTown Site | Become a Patron on Patreon! SoapBox Productions and Organizing, 501(c)3 Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | Site | Support

My husband, Mike Murphy, joins me on this episode of Faith Conversations.   We discussed a conference we recently attended which focused on the work of Breakthrough Urban Ministries, an inner-city ministry on the west side of Chicago in the East Garfield Park neighborhood. Through the message given by a variety of presenters, all in […] The post mike murphy-episode 120 appeared first on Anita Lustrea.

My husband, Mike Murphy, joins me on this episode of Faith Conversations.   We discussed a conference we recently attended which focused on the work of Breakthrough Urban Ministries, an inner-city ministry on the west side of Chicago in the East Garfield Park neighborhood. Through the message given by a... The post mike murphy-episode 120 appeared first on Anita Lustrea.

Pastor Fields asks the question ”How do you do good in the hood?” Isaiah Chapter 1:17 Pastor Cy Fields is the Senior Pastor of New Landmark Missionary Baptist Church for 10 years Cy has seen many experience spiritual growth and develop a deeper yearning to live and give according to the mandate of Jesus. New Landmark continues to be a spiritual landmark in the East Garfield Park community and the greater Chicago metropolitan area. Under his leadership many new ministries have been added, expanded its outreach, maintained financial health and completed reconstruction projects.