It’s that time of year again-the winter Holidays are quickly approaching. There will be smiles, bursts of laughter and lots of love in the air, happiness and cheer to all. At least that’s how it should be. However, this special time of year may not be so cheerful for some. Not everyone will open their … Continue reading Give the Gift of Possibilities By Robin Carter

The traditional colors of Christmas are red, white, and green with a little black. But not everyone chooses those colors for Christmas. For some the colors are blue, gray and a lot of black. The first color cluster is what we look for as we enjoy all the excitement and magic of the holiday season. … Continue reading Christmas Colors By Rev. Linda Butler, CPE

Last month, the Business Spotlight introduced Iris Leverett and Seven Strands. In the process, it was discovered she is also general manager/partner at Larry’s Barber College in Peoria owned by Larry E. Roberts, Jr., Founder & CEO of LSE Enterprises, Inc. Larry shared that the Peoria Barber College, located at 1315 W. Garden Street, was … Continue reading BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT – Larry’s Barber College By Jannise Bush

I was grocery shopping, running my errands, minding my own business when I overheard a mother and teen daughter talking nearby the aisle I was perusing. “Mom! I NEED this foundation! I must have it!” shrieks the teen daughter. Her mom looked at her with slight irritation, and tells her that she does not “need” … Continue reading Don’t Confuse Your Wants and Needs By Katherine Young

The racial disparity of HIV in the United States has reached almost startling proportions. This is apparent in African Americans who, despite representing only 12 percent of the U.S. population, account for 48 percent of all new HIV incidences. The reasons for this are complex and often misunderstood. While some may suggest that culture and … Continue reading HIV & African American Communities: What Factors Drive the Epidemic By Chris Wade, Director of Prevention Services, Central Illinois Friends

Holidays can be rough and especially if you are on a budget. But, in order to not have any regrets, you are going to have to know your budget and set price limits…and stick to it! Putting in place spending boundaries ahead of time can prevent you from overspending. There is nothing to be ashamed … Continue reading FASHION FORWARD – How to Spend Wisely For the Holiday By Meicka “J”

Lately, I’ve been reflecting on growing both as an educator and a parent. I began to ask myself “What if I used December as a lesson of reflection and gratitude?” How can we, as parents and educators, transform December into a classroom filled with valuable life lessons? Is it possible to teach our children to … Continue reading Holiday Lessons By Latasha Schraeder