Eyes off the Prize is both an outstanding and disturbing account of how American racism and Cold War paranoia eviscerated…

I have a reason to sing psalms and hymns and spiritual songs with thankfulness in my heart to God. No…

“…And he said what hast thou done? The voice of thy brother’s blood cruelty into me from the ground…” Matthew…

This February, two icons will go down in history as the greatest players in their respective sports. Tom Brady has…

In these yet-to-be United States of America, we are once again witness to a brutal attack on a Black man…

I am about love as a Christian, and I try to “spread love” by doing unto others as I would…

February is Black History month, when you may hear and read about many efforts and accomplishments made by our African…

Almost five years ago, two black men were escorted in handcuffs by police out of a Starbucks in Philadelphia because…

Are you the person who has a pile of bills and/or unopened mail and continuously tell yourself, “I’m going to…

Kudos to Deion “Primetime” Sanders for developing one of the most successful programs in college football history with Jackson State…

We are now in the throes of what must feel like a “never-ending” Groundhog Day. It was just two years…

Sometimes as Christians, we may find ourselves in some tough situations, and certain battles seem too hard to fight. Today…

“This is an exciting time for us.  We are bringing services to an area that sorely needs it”, says Denise…

Peoria teen, Miss Faye Cleaves, earned the opportunity to perform in the Teen Category at the National American Miss (N.A.M.)…

Greetings, Traveler Weekly Readers! I’m Sherry Gordon-Harris, Certified Etiquette Consultant, owner, and instructor of Royal Purpose School of Etiquette. Our…

“…but only one returned to glorify God and fall down to worship Him in gratitude.” Luke 17:15 So, there I…

It’s that time of year when the gift-buying and gift-giving frenzy has begun. It is Christmas time. Let’s face it,…

I imagine the inventor of the “password” as being a young gamer whose thumbs move quick as lightning over his…

Hebrews 11:1 Faith is the assurance of things hoped for. It is the final product of things we can’t see.…

The story of the wise men has long been a favorite. It tells the account of three important gifts being…

“And she shall bring forth a son, and thou shalt call his name JESUS: for He shall save His people…

Twenty twenty-two (2022) seemed to have gone by in a whirlwind. Still adjusting to our “new normal,” keeping up with…

On October 29, the Peoria Branch NAACP was able to return in person to its only fundraiser, the Annual Freedom…

History has come to life in downtown Peoria! With a groundbreaking combination of art and technology, local arts nonprofit Big…

Public Employees for Community Concerns has chosen Eric Holder, Former United States Attorney General, to give the keynote address at…

Women and people of color have traditionally represented what the government has defined as “affirmative action policies” for college-bound scholars,…

By the time you are reading this article, one of two emotions will have swept across our Nation. We will…

It’s holiday time again, and the search is on for a super drink creation that will amaze your guests. This…

Are you looking for a party location to hold for birthdays, anniversaries, a baby shower, or a business meeting? A…

As a member of the Board of Directors of San Francisco State University’s Gridiron Club Hall of Fame, every year,…

James Allen Jr. and Ira Goggins were among the more than 70 veterans on the final Greater Peoria Honor Flight…

Leilani Taylor is a student at Richwood’s High School. She is excelling in her IB program and plans to graduate…

Jeff Scott’s Hot Tamales, located at 2244 W. Glen Avenue (corner of West War Memorial and West Glen Avenue), held…

The Too Sophisticated Too Ratchet Art Affair was a major success this year. With a new venue giving off new…

On October 22, 2022, approximately 35,000 Black people convened on the Red Clay Hills of Georgia to attend the greatest…

As a kid, the word senile was always associated with old people. Especially when they did something a little off-kilter,…

“Autumn … the year’s last, loveliest smile.” — William Cullen Bryant, American poet No other season captures the anticipation, splendor…

Isaiah 54:17, the Scripture says, “No weapon formed against me shall prosper.” And every tongue that rises against you in…

Growing up in a small midwestern town, I was a happy only child who loved school and enjoyed playing with…

Did you ever think about saying those words?  It always happens to me!  It is like laying down a memory…

All night, all day, angels were watching over me: My Lord!       Mother, a classic of delight    When first she appeared upon…

Greetings, Traveler Weekly Readers! I’m Sherry Gordon-Harris, Certified Etiquette Consultant, owner, and instructor of Royal Purpose School of Etiquette. Our…

Before there was a Carver Community Center, there was the Negro Community Center. And before there was a Negro Community…

While the world mourned Queen Elizabeth II’s death, African Americans experienced at least six deaths during that same time period…

On September 23rd, Jonelle Polk McCloud was inducted into the Hall of Fame Class of 2022 at the University of…

Harry Sephus and Charity Elizabeth Beard were married on Oct 29, 1961, at Friendship Missionary Baptist Church in Peoria, Illinois with…

Three Emmy awards were earned by the cast of Abbott Elementary, which made veteran artists cry and others rejoice with…

America the Beautiful America can be as beautiful as we view it Beauty not expressed in pieces or bits But…

Last month New York Yankee slugger Aaron Judge tied fellow Yankee slugger, Roger Maris with 61 home runs for the…

The 15th amendment prohibited states from denying a citizen, the right to vote based on race, color, or previous conditions…

Don’t Forget What You Have Remember what you possess You have what it takes To soar the highest mountains And…

Cancer is the word no one or family ever wants to hear. Yet, we all know someone who has been…

“When Pharaoh heard of this, he tried to kill Moses, but Moses fled from Pharaoh and went to live in…

Protein is necessary for life. Seconded only by water, it is the essential nutrient we need to power our cells,…

The Supreme Court, the Republicans, and yes, some Democrats, have taken away the inalienable rights of women and some children…

It was a long time coming but I finally understood “no” was a complete sentence. No does not require explanation,…

If you have the good fortune to be a citizen for whom voting in each election is an exercise that…

Greetings, Traveler Weekly Readers! I’m Sherry Gordon-Harris, Certified Etiquette Consultant, owner and instructor of Royal Purpose School of Etiquette. Our…

But in everything, by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known unto God.” Philippians 4:6 KJV…

It appears the Biden Administration is following through on their promise and providing families some relief as they prepare to…

Author and presenter Mae Catherine Godhigh will present a program entitled “Up South” on Thursday, November 10 at 6:00 p.m.…

Ms. Josie graduated from Manual High School, class of 1958. She attended High Fashion Beauty School for cosmetology on SW…

Kerprecia Bullard was about to turn 29 years old on July 30th, 2022. Her mother Felicia Bland had always wanted…

There were turbulent times for strong, courageous Black teens across the country in the 60s. The Greensboro Four had initiated…

Triple J’s Janitorial Service, LLC, is owned and operated by husband-and-wife team, Jeffrey Bernard Harris and Vicki Moore-Harris, started in…

Junior is what my siblings and I affectionally called our oldest brother. His nieces and nephews would call him Reverend…

The T.H.I.N.K. (There’s Hope In New Knowledge) organization held a back-to-school event at G. W. Carver Center on July 30,…

The Office for Victims of Crime designates a National Crime Victims’ Rights week each year in April. This year’s theme…

Peoria was represented well this Labor Day weekend, September 2-5, 2022, in Indianapolis, IN at the National American Miss (N.A.M.)…

“It’s not through healing that you will love yourself. It’s through loving yourself, that you will heal.” I’m parked on…

Here are sections that should not be included in your resume. Too Much Information Make sure to only include employment,…

We are in September 2022, after three strange and unnerving years. So much has changed in a short span?  As…

Whether you have a belief that is scripturally based from the Christian Bible or from a James Baldwin novel, the…

The last time Bryant Macon, 43, searched for a music teacher’s position, it took him nine months to find a…

Serena Williams announced that she planned to evolve away from Tennis after the US Open. This wasn’t a new decision…

Greetings, Traveler Weekly Readers! I’m Sherry Gordon-Harris, Certified Etiquette Consultant, owner and instructor of Royal Purpose School of Etiquette. Our…

A famous quote states, “never look down on anyone unless you are helping them up.” This quote sends a strong…

Every day I wake up, I say a prayer. I pray for strength within me so I can deal with…

Pepper is an indispensable staple in every kitchen. The black pepper plant’s dried and ground peppercorn is the world’s most…

It’s summer and once again there are groups of young people roaming the streets in Peoria looking for stuff to…

This is my first state of the city address, and I’m proud to report that the State of the City…

Those my age have lived through some difficult social and political times. Our parents and some of us couldn’t eat…

An Illinois Woman received the highest award for her courage, integrity, and work ethic. Diane J. Nash earned a Presidential…

Nothing brightens our day like cards, texts, and phone calls from family and friends. These gestures of kindness are guaranteed…

Basil, also known as Holy Basil, is a part of the mint family. A favorite of gardeners and cooks everywhere,…

I know it seems as if summer break just began, but it is not too early to start thinking about…

Use these tips to help enhance your resume, attract recruiters and land your dream career! Career Tip #1: Use Action…

The game of golf reached a new level of viewer appeal with the recent surge of the LIV Golf League.…

Doris Symonds’ Togetherness Celebration event is held annually in June at the Lariat Steakhouse. This year, there were a lot…

The ongoing January 6 commission investigating the crimes committed by Donald Trump and his band of seditionists is revealing evidence…

As I write this column, many are celebrating the United States’ 246th Independence Day. In the Declaration of Independence, written…

Charles C. Hines Sr. received a proclamation by Peoria Mayor Rita Ali on June 11, 2022. Mayor Ali recognized Charles…

Anyone who frequents the local music scene knows that we are blessed with extraordinary talent.  Preston Jackson, Judy Page, and…

The Heritage Ensemble exists to celebrate the culture and history of African Americans through music. We must agree that “Tearing…

“When I was a child, I spoke as a child, I understood as a child, I thought as a child:…

Gun Violence is a very serious issue in our community, but who is to blame for this? Is it the…

The Lord said to Samuel, “How long will you mourn for Saul, since I have rejected him as king over…

The sales clerk pulled the Juneteenth display down, so I could purchase the last shirt in the store.  I was…

During this Juneteenth celebration, we envision the sights, sounds and smells of the 1865 emancipated slaves dancing in the streets…

As the NBA finals approach this month between the Golden State Warriors and the Boston Celtics, several players have emerged…

Many of you have likely never heard this song, penned by Eugene McDaniels and recorded by Les McCann in 1969.…

The longer I live the more I understand, that what is often referred to as being political, actually has more…

The 40th Annual YWCA Women’s Recognition Day selected Doris Symonds of Peoria to receive the 2022 YWCA Mission Award. The…

Strawberries are in season now, just in time for Juneteenth! Check out this easy-to-make strawberry pie. You’ll wow all your…

Greetings, Traveler Weekly Readers! I’m Sherry Gordon-Harris, Certified Etiquette Consultant, owner and instructor of Royal Purpose School of Etiquette. Our…

These past few years may have been a struggle for some in various ways. But even in the most difficult…

“Honor your father…. which is the first commandment with a promise, so that it will be well with you and…

Dear Readers: The sun is shining. We are alive with blessings from God. No matter where or who you are,…

June is recognized as national homeownership month by the Department of Housing and Urban Development-HUD. Owning a home is part…

An effort to dismiss the Tulsa lawsuit was denied May 3rd by Tulsa County District Court Judge Caroline Wall. Judge…

On her visit to Peoria recently 17th District Congresswoman Cheri Bustos came bearing gifts. Bustos brought a long-awaited present to…

They were not forgotten, cast aside, or ignored. Two pioneering African American women of journalism were recently honored for their…

Call it the Quarantine 15, the 29 pounds of COVID-Fat most people have put on since March 2020, or just…

One of the toughest jobs in the world is being a mom. A mother’s job is 24 hours a day,…

Bishop Harold Dawson, Jr. used to say that “anytime you hear a lie and believe it, you enact a lie.”…

The fallout from the recent invasion by Vladimir Putin’s Russian troops into Ukraine has triggered an outcry from the world…

There is nothing that incites the passions and wrath of the citizens of these yet-to-be united states, than the illusion…

Mother’s Day – For many, it is the longest day on earth. I was having a conversation with a woman…

Greetings, Traveler Weekly Readers! I’m Sherry Gordon-Harris, Certified Etiquette Consultant, owner and instructor of Royal Purpose School of Etiquette. Our…

“…cut the baby in half, that way each of you can have part of it…” 1 Kings 3:16-28 One of…

When the International Space Station (ISS) selected astronaut Dr. Jessica Watkins to join their research mission, Watkins knew she was…

What’s the first thing that comes to mind when you hear or see the word “fowler?” Do you think of…

The tips offered in this article can help you land an interview and your dream career. FONT TYPES The best…

Happy Mother’s Day, dear young mothers. You can make it through any storm when you “Let Love Be Your Highest Goal!”  Keep your…

Chicago Mayor Lori Lightfoot said there was not a dry eye on the White House South lawn, when Supreme Court…

Perseverance: A Journey Down Memory Lane Three years ago, March 2019, the Women of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., Peoria…

If you are looking for a delicious seafood boil, then Peoria, let’s welcome Krab Kingz Seafood. Located at 2517 N…

I must be very transparent about this piece. I was peeved and needed to write it after watching the confirmation…

Goodbye, winter. So long last frost of the year. Now that spring has sprung, and after twenty-four months of never…

A SPECIAL EVENING DEDICATED TO BREAST CANCER SURVIVORS Thursday, May 5, 2022 6:30 p.m. Salem Lutheran Church 1700 W. War…

That historical moment of two powerful black women standing behind the President of the United States of America on February…

Reported by Linda Butler, 22-year breast cancer survivor and Founder of Pray for the Cure. Breast cancer survival rates have…

After watching the vote in the U.S. Senate today, April 7, 2022, that confirmed the historic appointment of Judge Ketanji…

“Say not in grief she is no more but in thankfulness that she was.” – Hebrew Proverb A great queen…

Ukraine is a country in Eastern Europe. It is the second-largest country in Europe after Russia, which borders to the East…

We are finally starting to ease up on restrictions caused by the pandemic! Unfortunately, the last two years has caused…

Several snowstorms and rainy icy weather months can leave behind the bane of the city drivers; potholes. The remains from…

“…Peace be unto you…” John. 20:19 All of us have been affected in one way or another by death. In…

“When we look at what is happening in the world today, it is clear that women’s voices aren’t just being…

At the recent Academy Awards, Shaquille O Neal and Steph Curry received Oscars for their documentary, “The Queen of Basketball”.…

Greetings, Traveler Weekly Readers! I’m Sherry Gordon-Harris, Certified Etiquette Consultant, owner and instructor of Royal Purpose School of Etiquette. Our…

Psalm 27:4 “One thing I have asked from the Lord, that I seek: that I may dwell in the house…

Misty and Lonna Beasley are being patient and waiting for a blessing to unfold. As Christians, they trust and believe…

On February 25, 2022, President Joe Biden fulfilled his promise to nominate the 1st Black woman for the Supreme Court.…

Makayla Sanders decided to go to school to become an esthetician because of her interest in the beauty industry. “I’ve…

Observed in March, Women’s History Month commemorates the accomplishments of trailblazing women that have broken barriers in professional fields that…

Last month on February 22, 2022 the Peoria City Council voted 10-1 to deny a request for a liquor license…

Peoria is under new management. That is quite an understatement. From the front door to the back door, significant changes…

Spring is the season of growth. It’s not too hot, not too cold, warmer weather, farmer’s markets, birds singing, squirrels…

This year marks the 10-year anniversary of the “Who Killed Me” Poster Campaign. We are teaming up this year with…

Believe it or not, we are beginning the final stretch of the academic year! I encourage you and your children…

This month The World Golf Hall of Fame inducted Eldrick Tont Woods, also known by his nickname, Tiger, into its…

One of the most profound songs from my lifetime, which has now spanned more than 67 years, is Wake Up…

Recently I participated in a training conducted by Kevin Myles, the National NAACP Director of Training. The training was about…

The Daughters of Sojourner Truth Temple #1369 held their Annual Black History program on Saturday, February 19, 2022, at the…

Greetings, Traveler Weekly Readers! I’m Sherry Gordon-Harris, Certified Etiquette Consultant, owner and instructor of Royal Purpose School of Etiquette. Our…

Ukraine is under the horrific stress of war, as I sit painting!  I wonder what I would do if I…

The 2022 Black Engineer of the Year Awards were announced at the Annual BEYA STEM Conference, February 17-19 in Washington,…

“Behold the Beauty of the Lord” Psalm 27:4 God’s penmanship awakens us to the compassion of Jesus and the purity…

Recently I sat down with the young adults who make up the Yani Collective. They gathered on a Sunday afternoon…

Five years ago, my second-grade girls dressed up like shero Ida B. Wells-Barnett, and reenacted scenes from their books about…

Raised by his grandmother in the deep South, becoming a fashion writer was something unheard of for a young, Black…

I am always looking for opportunities to enrich a child’s life. Movies and books are simple ways to combine family…

The recent events surrounding former Miami Dolphin head coach Brian Flores have brought into question the NFL’s sincerity in addressing…

During February, many people view it as a romantic month. But did you know February is also the month of…

Climbing the corporate ladder can be difficult when there are obstacles that tend to hinder your progress continuously. The “glass…

Standing on the black earth of my garden, with dreams of what I’ll plant this spring, my thoughts race to…

Mrs. Nance Legins-Costley (1813-1892) lived with a unique honor as the first slave freed by Abraham Lincoln through the Illinois…

I am glad that I took a little longer to write this month’s article. Not that there isn’t enough craziness…

On October 9, 2021, Sojourner Truth Temple #1369 held its annual election. During this election, history was made. Past Grand…

On June 18, 2021, Illinois/Wisconsin State Association Brothers and Daughters of the Improved Benevolent Protective Order Elks of the World,…

Jamar Hardin became a barber because he loved cutting hair so much that he took that chance when the opportunity…

Robert Johnson, Sr., President of the Pleasure Driveway and Park District of Peoria Board of Trustees, was recently elected to…

As we celebrate the love month, the health month, and the month we recognize some of the greatest black history…

“…And Jacob was left alone; and there wrestled a man with him until the breaking of day…” Gen. 32:24 In…

“But be sure to fear the LORD and serve him faithfully with all your heart; consider what great things he…

Count Basie was a customer at the barbershop where I worked in the ‘60s.  My barber chair was next to…

Greetings, Traveler Weekly Readers! I’m Sherry Gordon-Harris, Certified Etiquette Consultant, owner and instructor of Royal Purpose School of Etiquette. Our…

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of our Warrior Leader and President/CEO/Co-founder of the National Black…

Faye Dant is a 5th generation Missourian, born and raised in Hannibal.  Faye is a child of the 50’s and…

As 2022 rolls in, a lot of emphasis will be placed on losing weight and getting healthier. We know what…

It’s been a rough year and a half with COVID 19 spreading throughout the nation as well as our local…

Can you believe we are celebrating entering the year 2022? Who would have thought that our lives would have been…

District testing is typically administered in January after students return from winter break.  The purpose of these assessments is to…

The recent on-field events surrounding Tampa Buccaneers wide receiver Antonio Brown have brought into question his emotional stability. His meltdown…

We are now past the one-year anniversary of the insurrectionist assault on this Nations’ Capitol, January 6, 2021. We have,…

Dear Readers, This is an unapologetic announcement: Black History begins on January 1 and ends on December 31 of each…

Welcome to winter. The temperature’s dropped, it’s freezing again, and most of us are longing for the warmth of a…

The Central Illinois Chapter of The Links saw a great turnout at their recent kidney screening drives. Established in 1974,…

Greetings, Traveler Weekly Readers! I’m Sherry Gordon-Harris, Certified Etiquette Consultant, owner and instructor of Royal Purpose School of Etiquette. Our…

Sherry Gordon-Harris is the Founder and President of The King’s Daughters World Ministry. This ministry was founded in 2005. Its…

A tree rooted deeply in soil has a greater survival rate during heavy winds and storms without toppling to the…

“…and the water ran about the altar; and he filled the trench also with water…” 1 Kings 18:35 During the…

LOVE is a word used as a verb, adverb, adjective, and proverb, but more importantly, a proper name for God. God is…

Many mourn the recent loss of one of the most influential civil rights leaders of our time, Mr. Vernon Jordan,…

As Illinois Focuses on Reaching People of Color for Vaccines, A Daughter Loses her Battle with COVID-19 Even with three…

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. – State Rep. Jehan Gordon-Booth, D-Peoria, was named Speaker Pro Tempore in the leadership of the Illinois House of…

In a tight competitive political race between two African American women politicians, a Bradley alumnus came out victorious during women’s…

Trimming the Grocery Bill – Garden Preparations for a Budget March marks the start of spring and the growing season…

Many women have broken the glass ceiling in the past year by closing the position gaps in male-dominated industries. With…

Believe it or not, we are beginning the final stretch of the academic year! I encourage you and your children…

The African American Hall of Fame Museum will celebrate Peoria Public Schools, Quest Academy, and Bloomington/Norma graduating scholars during the…

While we continue to see the debate over the minimum wage in Washington DC, I really wonder what they are…

“… but one thing us needful: and Mary hath chosen that good part …” Luke 4:42  There isn’t a person…

It was 1945, the Zenith Radio blared with the graveled voice of the announcer yelling excitedly, “World War Two is…

A familiar scripture in the Christian faith concerning the Prophet Jeremiah quotes God saying: Before I formed you in the…

When I called the Las Vegas Review-Journal, the news assistant was so kind to me. She treated me like I…

Congress ratified the 15th Amendment in 1870, which prohibited states from denying a male citizen the right to vote based…

The title of this article is taken from the title of a very popular song from 1974 by the singing…

They rise up through glass ceilingsAs many try to keep them downThey’re paid much less though are the bestWhile moving…

“A Long Overdue Love Letter to Past and Present Leading Ladies in the Black Church” March is Women’s History Month…

God heals the brokenhearted and bandages the wounds. Let us bless the Lord at all times with His praises in…

Essential workers and the college students who organized one of the largest peaceful protests in local history were among those…

In this Black History Month 2021, it is important for us to take the precious time to celebrate and participate…

There’s no way to know, much less name, all of them. So much of their work is the invisible glue…

She had dark, smooth, ebony skin and deep brown eyes, a very slender waist, hips, and shapely legs. She always…

Everyone has a story to tell, whether it is a personal story or a story about someone else. The great…

Lord, here I am, here I am Lord Just finished doin’ dis white man’s chores In his fields gettin’ black,…

Like so many fans of the game of baseball, I’ve been taken back by the sudden passing of so many…

February is historically known as Black History Month. During this time, students often complete projects featuring Black men and women…

They came by the carload, van load, and busload. They were on foot, running and walking, to the same door…

 JER. 29:11 I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans to prosper you and not to…

“…And he said what hast thou done? The voice of thy brother’s blood crieth unto me from the ground…” Gen.…

Donald Trump left the White House with yet another distinction, which further confirms him to be the worst President in…

The election is over. The people have spoken. The results have been certified. Former VEEP has certified the results. The…

As the first month of the new decade in 2021 ends, and the vaccine for the coronavirus that caused a…

For the Christian Bible scholars among us, you probably know the story better than I, where in Exodus, Chapter 5,…

The laws in our country today paints a similar picture of the “Jim Crow” era. It seems as though there…

Welcome, February! It’s Black history month, and I am on a quest to ‘Buy Black’, specifically black-grown food. Since black…

February is the month when people show their love in a materialistic manner. Boxes of candy, stuffed animals, and figurines…

Anyone who knows me will say that I have an opinion about most things and have a propensity for stating…

By the time you read this, it is my sincere hope and prayer that our one Nation under God, indivisible,…

This past year was filled with unprecedented challenges as we navigated through the many uncertainties 2020 brought us. Through pain…

COVID-19 Vaccine Information The first phase of vaccine distribution focuses on frontline health care workers in patient service with the…

On Friday, December 4, 2020, The Illinois Department of Public Health and Governor J.B. Pritzker’s office announced the arrival of…

he spirited Elizabeth Jennings is still riding the fence on whether or not to volunteer to receive the free COVID-19 vaccine.…

T.H.I.N.K., formerly known as T.H.I.N.K. Mentor Academy was started in September 2013. T.H.I.N.K. is an acronym for There’s Hope In…

On December 8, 2020, we celebrated my dad’s 81st birthday. What a blessing it is to write this story about…

He was her modern-day superhero, and she was his little sister, whom she looked up to as a child. Chicago is…

The Illinois Small Business Development Center at the Turner Center for Entrepreneurship awarded Mrs. Doris Symonds the 2020 Women in…

Bonnie Hester, “Ms. Bonnie” as I often called her, did not come across like a politician. But I was not…

Glory, Hallelujah—We Made It!Through civil unrest, a pandemic messWe Made ItWe grieve for the fallen, our loved ones never forgottenWe…

wo mites (Greek lepta) are together worth a quadrans, the smallest Roman coin, which is the offering given by a…

The Church was at the bottom of Main Street, adjacent to the railroad tracks and the lakefront park, Peoria Lake.…

“…Arise, and take the young child and his mother, and flee into Egypt, and be thou there until I bring…

Opening presents on Christmas day is what I felt when it was announced Biden won the presidential election some three…

The Illinois State Black Chamber wishes you Season’s Greetings and a very Merry Christmas as we bring the infamous 2020…

Dear readers, Our American culture does not “do” death and grief very well. The 2020 pandemic only added excruciating levels…

While the holidays are quickly approaching, many things may be different than the year before. Due to our current conditions,…

I still see that shining star Way up in THAT sky above, Telling us who hold out hope God still…

Simply put, it’s an account that is significantly delinquent! As you may or may not know, collection accounts can be…

This year has been one for the books. A year that no one would do over. For Black and brown Americans, it…

We are nearing the end of the first semester of this academic year! Second semester is an opportunity to make…

While President-Elect Joe Biden is forming committees and overseeing candidates for new positions, he and Madame Vice President-Elect Kamala Harris…

Sometimes I journal about people, places, things, and situations that really impact my life. I’m not always consistent in my…

“As they danced, they sang: “Saul has slain his thousands, and David his tens of thousands.’” 1 Sam. 18:7 Imagine with me…

Wearing masks, socially distancing and simply remaining home are small tasks that have been ignored in Illinois. While the COVID-19…

After four years of writing opinion pieces, signing petitions, participating in marches and protest, we finally got the chance to…

After twenty-seven years as the CEO of Tri-County Urban League, Laraine E. Bryson has announced her intentions to retire during…

On October 21, 2020, during the Annual ArtsPartners Meeting, Mrs. Sharon Samuels Reed was named Arts Partner of the Year…

Illinois Central College presented Peorian Christopher S. McCall with the Distinguished Alumnus Award on Thursday, October 22. The presentation was…

#WeAreDoneDying was the theme for this year’s NAACP’s 58th Annual Freedom Fund Non-Event, which was posted on their webpage (http://peorianaacp.com/),…

From snow showers to blustery winds, keeping your home warm throughout the winter can be tough — but small changes…

Melodi Green does more than talk about community service. She leads by example. Green, who serves as the Chief of…

I often wonder about my legacy that I will leave my children and their children. Looking at my dad and…

My friend Angela telephoned me to talk about why we should keep old pictures as a way of preserving history…

What’s the best thing you can do right now for a great spring garden?  That’s simple. Condition your soil with…

What a time it is to be alive. This election year has been historic: People of all backgrounds voting—some even…

Not sure what agency is doing the marketing commercials for Walmart; kudos to them. The music on one of their…

Most of us know the rest of that statement goes, believed to have been initially attributed to our Ancestral Queen,…

A few lessons COVID-19 is teaching us are patience, flexibility and the ability to remember all of these recent changes…

There was a time when old folks spoke You did not walk away There was a time when old folks…

Liberation does not only mean freedom from an oppressive regime or government; it could also mean unshackling one’s self from…

Dear Friends, “Do not be conformed to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then…

Last month, during the COVID-19 crisis, the Los Angeles Dodgers won the 117th Annual World Series by defeating the Tampa…

There’s no need to be afraid of me; I am not a threat to you. Though some may believe, I…

Autumn leaves are falling. Our country is poised to sample a smorgasbord of holidays and traditions. But hold on before…

The 15th amendment prohibited states from denying a citizen, the right to vote based on race, color, or previous conditions…

The health pandemic, COVID-19, might be ” disappearing” from President Donald Trump’s eyes, but for Black and Brown people, the…

LaTasha Williams is loud, emotional and bold in her presentation. She is convinced that change is coming during her lifetime,…

What does Black Lives Matter mean? What images or thoughts come to mind when you hear the chant? Is it…

My mind will always wander to the Glo whenever I hear of lemons and making lemonade. In April 2020, GloBar…

There is something about viewing the formality of a government official’s military funeral procedure that completely mesmerizes me. The precision…

Last month the world of football lost one of its most valued treasures with the death of 77-year-old Gale Sayers,…

We’re hurrying to you dear, Nature We’re coming, but give us a chance, To move once more upon the wind,…

Did you notice the sky darkening earlier each day? Red and purple leaves are displaying their beauty against brilliant yellow…

Do you realize you are here for a specific reason? No matter the size, you have something to contribute. You…

Early October is the time when parents receive their students’ first report card. I want to remind each you that…

You have a voice in who represents your interests: Mayor City council members County Supervisors State Representatives State Senators U.S.…

Alright, readers, I’ve gone down a rabbit hole… Go ahead and admit it you’ve done it before, too. Recently, a…

Beloved readers,this is a consecrated article of faith, for the glory of God the Father, God the Son, and God…

“If it be so, our God whom we serve is able to deliver us from the fiery furnace…” Dan. 3:17…

How I miss those drives ago Before the winter brought the snow There on the roadside, I would sleep I…

Restaurants have truly suffered through our historic 2020 pandemic. I took the time to drop in on one of Peoria’s…

Black America is in an absolute economic State of Emergency! To not immediately acknowledge then address the inevitable and impending…

Tasty Garden Goodness is a new addition to The Traveler. We hope to inspire you in these articles with wonderful…

As the COVID-19 virus continues to increase in America, more families are dealing with their losses in multiple numbers. The…

“Then Caleb silenced the people before Moses and said, “We should go up and take possession of the land, for…

The R & B group The Chi-Lites penned a song back in 1970 that wasn’t a major hit but yet…

We are embarking on an academic year that will certainly come with some feelings of uncertainty and anxiety. However, I…

The meaning of a namby-pamby mystic is wanting in character and claiming an insight into problems people aren’t capable of…

As an educator and parent, I can truly attest to being overwhelmed and filled with so many decisions regarding my…

As I work on getting a grip on life living with COVID-19, I find myself self-absorbed with watching the hybrid…

A few days ago, former Peoria TV reporter, Denise Jackson entered the Peoria City Council Race. My morning commute led…

As I rise from childhood ashes, Where many took advantage of me. Rising from a race so displaced, But coming,…

In December 2019, Chinese health officials informed WHO (the World Health Organization) about a number of patients who had an…

African-Americans are not exempt from suicide. According to the Journal of Black Psychology, on an average day in the United…

What was once a breakfast fixture in some households may be replaced with a current Black woman’s syrup product. Michele…

I think we can safely say that most of us have never had to balance life as we have had…

As the month of July rolls by, there is heightened anticipation that sports teams will begin competing this summer. The…

Yea now I am among the ones My teachers tried to have me read Those who make words float So…

“When I was a child, I spoke as a child, I understood as a child, I thought as a child:…

In a September 27, 1966 interview with CBS’ Mike Wallace, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. was asked about the “increasingly…

Once again, Peoria, Illinois, has made national news. A recent article in the New York Times writes about how “Peoria,…

In the midst of the current political and social unrest that can be attributed to the racial inequities brought to…

Living by Faith, my friends is a haven of God. As Solomon clearly states in Ecclesiastes 7:9, “Anger resides in the bosom…

When she came to Peoria, it was the early Forties, and Peoria was still in the apartheid of Jim Crow.…

Kings and Queens ruled in a far away land Bought to the Americas in a slave caravan Human bondage omitted…

When George Floyd called for his mother, every Black Mother in America heard him, and it globally ripped our souls.…

At first glance, you do not see the Black rage seething inside her body and soul, but one can surely…

As the year 2020 began, we had no idea that within six months all of our lives would be changed;…

Rapper Grand Master Flash has a song called “Close to the Edge.” The lyrics are, “Don’t push me cause I’m…

Guns, who should own one? That question often erupts in bitter arguments and stoic opinions. People are often on one…

At the end of each year, beginning in 1991, the American Dialect Society has selected a “Word of The Year.”…