Many mourn the recent loss of one of the most influential civil rights leaders of our time, Mr. Vernon Jordan, who died at the age of 85 on March 1, 2021. While many knew him from a distance, his influence was personal for the Peoria community in general and the Tri-County Urban League, in particular. … Continue reading Vernon E. Jordan By Laraine E. Bryson

As Illinois Focuses on Reaching People of Color for Vaccines, A Daughter Loses her Battle with COVID-19 Even with three vaccines now available, white Americans fill at least 70 percent of the population who have received the shots to save or extend their lives. Illinois has received 4.2 million doses of the vaccinations and 3.3 … Continue reading A Daughter Loses her Battle with COVID-19 By Cassiette West-Williams

State Rep. Jehan Gordon-Booth, D-Peoria SPRINGFIELD, Ill. – State Rep. Jehan Gordon-Booth, D-Peoria, was named Speaker Pro Tempore in the leadership of the Illinois House of Representatives, serving alongside newly elected Speaker Emanuel “Chris” Welch, the first African American in Illinois history to serve as speaker. “With the elevation of Chris Welch to Speaker of the … Continue reading Illinois State Rep. Jehan Gordon-Booth Named Speaker Pro Tempore

Congresswoman Robin Kelly In a tight competitive political race between two African American women politicians, a Bradley alumnus came out victorious during women's history month. Congresswoman Robin Kelly is now the reigning leader of the Illinois Democratic Party (IDP). She replaced Michael Madigan, who served as chair of the Illinois Democratic Party from 1998 to … Continue reading Congresswoman Robin Kelly makes modern history in Illinois By Cassiette West-Williams

Trimming the Grocery Bill - Garden Preparations for a Budget March marks the start of spring and the growing season for most Americans. That means money savings for budget-conscious consumers. While grocery store produce continues to rise in price, raising food at home or in a community garden can mean an overall reduction in the … Continue reading Tasty Garden Goodness… Trimming the Grocery Bill By Candy Webb

Many women have broken the glass ceiling in the past year by closing the position gaps in male-dominated industries. With the advent of women taking key roles in politics and CEOs of major organizations, the sport’s arena has also seen some significant changes in hiring practices. In sports, women are now officiating at the professional … Continue reading Women In Sports: Moving Forward By Mark Hollis

Believe it or not, we are beginning the final stretch of the academic year! I encourage you and your children to stay the course. Set goals for the final weeks. Considering the pandemic and how it has affected learning, be sure the goals are realistic and attainable to avoid unnecessary anxiety. Now is the time … Continue reading Spring 2021: Finishing Strong By Dr. Latasha Schraeder