Candidate Glenda Franklin Spreads Love Across Chicago

Chicago political candidate Glenda Franklin refuses to forget her humble beginnings on the city's South Side. While her campaign for 17th Ward Alderman quickly moves forward, Ms. Franklin still finds time to show love to those who could be her future constituents.

Yesterday, Ms. Franklin came out to Operation Hope to help serve 2,300 meals to the needy-- a joint effort with her pastor Father Michael Pfleger of St. Sabina Church, BJ's Market, and WVON-AM.

However, Ms. Franklin has done more than just serve her own ward. Last Sunday, she came to the spot where 15-year-old Demario Bailey lost his life and offered prayers and support for his family.  For her, the zip code or political boundaries of the crime did not matter. Throughout her entire campaign, she has gone wherever there was need.

"This has to stop! This has to stop! In the name of Jesus, this has to stop," Ms. Franklin prayed before a small crowd of mourners. 

With the primary election just 2 months away, Ms. Franklin continues to reach out to her community so that they can create #ANewNormal.   

For more information about her campaign, visit her Facebook page. 

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Behind The Scenes | Why ONE BLOCK Matters

The Zack's TV original series, ONE BLOCK, is more than just a video project; the show is part of my mission to create the kind of programming that I want to see.

Before I started, I observed that most "urban" or African-American webseries focused on crime or relationships. Instead of complaining, I decided to create a different niche for storytellers. Given that I'm single and law abiding, I wanted to be the voice for working class people who live exciting but overlooked lives.

I produce the show with a Canon T3i Rebel DSLR camera, a lavalier mic, and basic editing software. I write my script on Celtx and I started an IMDB page to provide credits for my casts. Overall, I wear all of the hats and pay out of pocket with money from temp jobs. 

No begging on Kickstarter or IndieGoGo. I just use what I have.

The episodes are not perfect. One of the lavalier mics has a piece missing which causes an annoying clicking sound. Plus, my editing software doesn't allow me to re-color the footage in post-production. But I keep moving. 

ONE BLOCK matters because it is truly an original concept. Studio execs don't care about the unique relationships that neighbors in block clubs have with one another. That's why I wanted to do this project.

I have a talented and amazing cast-- with new guest stars signing up as we speak.

There are no complaints here; only kudos to some amazing people that you see above.  

UPDATE - January 14, 2015:
ONE BLOCK is on hiatus while we plan for a full-fledged production. Until then, you can enjoy Episodes 1-3 right here.





ONE BLOCK - Not On My Watch (Episode 3) from Zack Raz on Vimeo.

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A Tribute To "Mama Brenda" (Editorial)

Mama Brenda Matthews was a speaker who didn't need a microphone. She had a loud, resonant style of presentation which made her words echo days after you heard them. 
When she passed last Thursday at the age of 53, Mama Brenda's friends and family became her echo and continue to keep her memory alive through tributes.

When I first heard Mama Brenda in 2009, I was captivated. I had never heard a poet deliver words in such a passionate manner. She spoke with a sense of urgency but exuded a familiar charisma with the audience. You didn't feel uncomfortable calling her "Mama" because she treated her listeners as if they were family. 

Mama Brenda didn't believe in watering down the truth. She spoke the truth without boundaries and lifted her voice so loud that you could not ignore her.

I will miss her physical presence but I'm glad that she shared a gift that will always live on.

I send prayers and condolences to her friends, family, fans, and supporters. 



*                          *                               * 
Funeral arrangements have been announced:
Friday, November 28, 2014
Visitation 
4:00 to 7:00 p.m. 
Calahan Funeral Home

7030 S. Halsted St, Chicago, IL
1-773-723-4400

Celebration
7:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m.
Evangel World Outreach Center
4538 West Fullerton, Chicago, IL
1-773-252-5727

Saturday, November 29, 2014
Wake/Funeral
10:00 a.m. / 11:00 a.m.
Evangel World Outreach Center
4538 West Fullerton, Chicago, IL
1-773-252-5727

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ONE BLOCK Prepares For Official Production

Last Saturday, the Zack's TV original series "ONE BLOCK" entered the pre-production phase by filming a screen test with the cast.

Written, directed, and produced by Zack Raz, "ONE BLOCK" chronicles the misadventures of a popular couple-- Walter and Dottie Lockhart-- who finds themselves mediating neighborly disputes while trying to resolve those of their own. 

Ken Caldwell and Aubie Rain make their acting debuts as the Lockharts; rapper Ace B8gie ("Kamal") and model Aubri Ruiz ("Tina") continue moving forward in the industry. 

The first official episode will be shot during the weekend of December 5-7 but specific releases have not been determined yet. 

Check out a special screen test here.

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LATE PASS: 50 Years Of CIFF

For the 50^th year, the Chicago International Film Festival has brought audiences films from around the world. From full-length features to short subjects, films from across the globe screened as part of the 50^th Anniversary celebration.




To help celebrate this momentous milestone, this year’s line-up included bringing key films from the past to celebrate actors who’ve been featured multiple times at the Festival as well as highlight films that made their debut or won awards in the past throughout the Festival’s history. Films like “White Nights”, starring Mikhail Baryshnikov and Gregory Hines, and “One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest”, starring Jack Nicholson and Louise Fletcher, returned for one night only in their since their debuts at the Festival decades ago.

Films like “The Well”, “The Babadook”, and “The Young Kieslowski” brought excitement from the film festivals they premiered in earlier this year to the Chicago International Festival with audiences lining up to purchase their tickets.

 

Big name films such as Oscar contenders “Birdman (or the Unexpected Virtueof Ignorance)” and “The Imitation Game” premiered to audiences in Chicago while films such as “St. Vincent” and “The Last 5 Years” sold out tickets by the end of the first weekend of the Festival.

Winner of the Audience Choice Award “The 100 Year Old Man Who Climbed Outthe Window and Disappeared” from Sweden and the Gold Hugo Award for Best Film winner “The President” from Georgia, France, Germany, and UK screened one extra time during the “Best of the Fest” final full day of the Festival.

This was a fun-filled year and one can only see what’s in store for the next 50 years of the Festival and beyond!

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Why Chicago Must Learn Polish (#LanguageClub )

It's a sad reality: Chicago folks will eat Polish sausages before they speak the Polish language. In other words, they will chew Polish food before they "spit out" Polish phrases. That's quite ironic given that Polish is the third most spoken language in the state of Illinois-- behind English and Spanish. But Go Zack is going to change that.  

Just like Spanish is considered a major language of the city, Polish should also be given the same attention. Polish residents have made tremendous contributions to Chicago and they should have access to more people speaking their native language. 

Before you come with the "Americans should only speak English" rebuttal, here are a few reasons why Polish can help Chicago:

1) Tourism- While many people in Poland know English, it will still make them feel more about home to visit a city which honors their language. Some might come to visit relatives; others could be exploring the United States for employment opportunities. Whatever their reasons are, Chicago should be prepared to have more Polish speakers around for hospitality. 

2) Job Market- As mentioned in the previous point, Polish corporations could set up headquarters in Chicago to expand their American presence. In turn, Chicago job seekers will have more opportunities to work here or participate in worker exchange programs. 

3) Diversity & Culture- Learning languages can lead to new perspectives and new friendships. Every May, the Polish Constitution Parade draws a large crowd. But a majority of those people are from the Polish community. If Chicago residents knew more about Polish culture, it would help the city to become less segregated. 

Yet there's hope. Chicago activist Jahmal Cole has a project called "My Block, My Hood, My City" which explores the cultural diversity of the city's 77 neighborhoods.  

If you would like to learn more about Chicago's Polish community, visit this website.  

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Review: 'Carlyle' Creates Stir At Goodman Theatre's New Stages Festival

UPDATE 9/18/15:
Carlyle will premiere at the end of Goodman's 15/16 season. (April 2- May 1, 2016)

What you can expect is a show about a black male's journey through the 1980s and 1990s as he searches for his political identity. Carlyle is a show with awkward laughs but major punchlines that will get you thinking.

Don't expect the same actors. (Usually, actors from the staged production find other work by the time the show officially opens.)  If I could cast this project, I would choose actors like Church Lockett (Gill Hayes Talent) or Anthony Irons and Antoine McKay (Stewart Talent). 

One of my top choices for "Carlyle" would be Goodman favorite Tosin Morohunfola (who appeared in Pullman Porter Blues in 2013). 

Please excuse my poorly done review from last year. I let an audience member get under my skin. 

While Nik Wallenda completed his tight rope stunt on "Skyscraper Live" last night, one playwright's work treaded upon the emotions of a live studio audience just a few blocks away. 

"Carlyle" (written by Thomas Bradshaw) is one of three main productions in Goodman Theatre's New Stages festival. Brilliantly casted by Adam Belcuore, the play is centered around Carlyle (James Earl Jones II) as he tries to find his true identity as a "Black Republican" in a world where neither Democrats or Republicans truly accept him. 

I don't want to spoil the plot or ruin the jokes. The best way to enjoy any creative work is to tune out critiques and view it with your own eyes. But I will say that the performance will leave you with questions. 

After each performance, there is a post-show discussion. Last night, the most disturbing moment came when an audience member-- a white man-- said that he felt that black men in the audience should feel offended by the content of the play. Immediately, I gave a rebuttal saying that no one can speak for any group of people. The man instantly shrugged off my rebuttal as if I had said nothing.

Moments later, an elderly African-American gentleman applauded the other man's rude behavior as they walked past me. 

It was a real-life ending which made the lesson of the play resonate more with me. 

But I won't let the man's rudeness get me down. 

Whose opinion are reading right now: his or mine? 

[Enjoy the show!]

Zack's TV Review: Recommended. 3 out of 4 Stars. 

"Carlyle" runs until Sunday, November 16. Click here for the free tickets.

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Goodman Theatre's 'A Christmas Carol' Refreshes Holiday Classic for 37th Time

Courtesy: Goodman Theatre Publicity

Before Halloween ends, Christmas always begins at Goodman Theatre in Chicago. For the 37th year, the production powerhouse will stage Charles Dickens' "A Christmas Carol" for audiences who can't get enough of the time-honored classic. While the story will be the same, returning director Henry Wishcamper (Goodman's Artistic Associate) will be working with a diverse cast of crowd favorites and newcomers to create a new experience.

From someone who has seen the production twice, here are some things to look forward to: 

Talented Newcomers 

Courtesy: Goodman Theatre Publicity

 

Newcomers will include Nathaniel Buescher (age 7, Chicago) as Tiny Tim;  Ava Morse (age 8, Naperville) as Emily Cratchit/Pratt/ Want/Child In The Doorway; Phillip Cusic (age 11, Chicago) as Peter Cratchit/ Ignorance; William A. Burke (age 15, Chicago) as Young Scrooge/Turkey Boy, and Skye Sparks (age 11, Naperville) as Belinda Cratchit. 

A Spectacular Set 

The set is always amazing! You will feel like you are transported back in the 1800s. I would post production photos from previous years but the set always has new and exciting changes. 

Incredible Acting

Larry Yando was born to play Ebenezer Scrooge. His comedic timing, diction, pacing, and facial expressions are the ingredients of a perfect delivery. 

"A Christmas Carol" runs November 15 to December 28, 2014 at Goodman Theatre, 170 N. Dearborn, Chicago, IL.

For tickets and more information, click here.

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From Ballin' to Bawlin': Bandman Kevo Charged With Bank Fraud

Chicago rapper Kevin "Bandman Kevo" Ford wanted international acclaim for his music; Now, he is a household name connected to alleged bank fraud. 

According to NWI Times reporter Sarah Reese, Ford was among 29 defendants charged in what authorities have called a "card-cracking" scheme. On Wednesday, the feds released an official criminal complaint featuring allegations of Ford and his counterparts using social media to carry out the scheme. 

'Crack Cards or Starve': A New Culture of Crime

For the past 3 years, social media users have seen familiar messages from devious people participating in "card cracking." Card cracking schemes involve the recruiters collecting debit cards and PIN numbers from banking customers in order to deposit fake checks. When the banks notice the checks are bad, the customer is left "on the hook."

College students are common targets, experts say. Many students have been approached in public settings like nightclubs-- not just social media. In those environments, scam artists have been more persuasive and persistent to get their targets to hand over bank cards.

Some have argued that rap music has introduced teens and college students to card-cracking. From Chief Keef to Dreezy, a growing number of rap songs feature lyrics about "cracking cards because it's stack or starve." 

If convicted, Bandman Kevo is going to be stacking laundry in federal prison and starving for freedom.

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Don't Sleep On Kindred The Family Soul! [Editorial]

It's a damn shame that Kindred The Family Soul's video "A Couple Friends" only has about 3,000 views on Vevo. 
The talented Philadelphia couple deserves more airplay and exposure on social media timelines. 

In a time where Iyanla Vanzant tries to be spiritual counselor for dysfunctional families, the good examples of loving couples continue to go unrecognized. The lead singers of Kindred The Family Soul-- Aja Graydon and Fatin Dantzler-- have been married 16 years and have 6 children. There are no love children or child support disputes causing havoc in that household. But we live in a world where negativity breeds curiosity. 

I challenge people to listen to Aja and Fatin's music and support their brand. They deserve to be celebrated. 

Check out the video below. If you like what you hear, you can purchase their album here. 

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Dear Chicago Youth: Stop Fighting The Wrong Fights!

I do my best to keep judgment to a minimum. 

[In fact, I've been judged for what I've said, written, and worn.]

But some things need to be addressed. 

Last week, students at Chicago's historic Paul Laurence Dunbar Vocational Career Academy--the alma mater of Oscar winner Jennifer Hudson-- used their youthful energy in the wrong way by fighting and causing havoc on their school's campus.  

Don't get me wrong; I was their age 15 years ago and fell short of perfection on my occasions.

However, I had a support system at home consisting of two old-fashioned parents who encouraged me to "get my sh*t together" because the world was not going to accept my excuses in lieu of rent. 

Post by Abnormal Paris.

Those rowdy students at Dunbar don't realize that their REAL competition goes to school in the same neighborhood. Students at schools like De La Salle and The Young Women's Leadership Charter School are being prepared for lucrative careers and unlimited success. Meanwhile, kids who choose to fight and riot during instructional time are being prepared for lives of misery. 

I understand that "the system" is set up to fail minority youth. But I am a living witness that you CAN beat "the system." You have to stop celebrating ignorance and idolizing celebrities! TURN OFF THE DAMN TV! As my parents would tell me when I was younger: "Those celebrities already HAVE A JOB!"

Alternatives

One alternative is the Walgreens Expressions Challenge.  
The Walgreens Expressions Challenge is a creative contest which gives teens a chance to win $2,000 while expressing their views on issues such as self esteem, teen pregnancy, and STD prevention. 

The contest runs from October 1 to November 30 and is held annually. 

After November 30, there will still be opportunities for teens to engage in positive activities as well. 

Teens at Dunbar High School should partner with the PTA to have Family Fun Days at least one weekend a month. During the events, students can enjoy their school in a relaxed environment (with appropriate security) and enjoy surprise visits from notable alumni-- including Jennifer Hudson. 

The next video they should release is one showing the students celebrating a triumph instead of almost trampling each other in a silly fight.

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The First Step To Hollywood: Be An Extra!

Twenty years ago, aspiring actors and actresses had to move to L.A. or New York to get their careers off the ground. Now, future thespians can be part of the action without packing a suitcase. Production companies are choosing more cities for their projects-- which increases the chances of a major film or TV show being shot in your town.

I have been an extra on a few TV shows filmed in Chicago. Some experiences are better than others-- but the key is to have fun! Whether they feature you in the final cut or edit out the scene together, you will be paid and get another item to add on your acting resume. 

If you are ready for your chance at fame, here are a few tips:

- Subscribe to nationwide casting call alerts. 
Project Casting is a great way to find opportunities in multiple cities. If you have a full-time job or live more than 3 hours away, you can still search for weekend opportunities.

- Keep A Few "Amateur Headshots" On You
When you submit registration for the casting pool, you will be asked to send a few recent pics of yourself. They don't have to be done in a studio but don't submit bathroom selfies either.
Get someone to take a picture of you in your living room or near a light background. Wear a casual outfit and make sure your physical appearance is on point.

- Be Willing To "Hurry Up & Wait"
When you show up on time, you will be 2 to 3 hours early for the scene. During that time, you will check in for the scene. You will be given paper work to fill out at either the beginning or the end of your day. (It varies depending upon the company.) Use your time wisely and make new friends if you can.

- Don't Overact; Follow Instructions
Being over-the-top will most likely get you cut from the scene. Directors want natural performers-- not extras who want to be the star. Don't do anything you wouldn't normally do in your daily routine.

- Invest Your Income..If Possible
Save some of your wages to invest towards professional head shots. Then, start looking for a talent agency!

Good luck!

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Kelvin Doe, Another Smart Guy! (#WeSeeYou)

Geniuses come in all shapes, sizes, colors, and ages.

This week, we salute Kelvin Doe (now 17) who is highlighted in the following video. 

He's a Sierra Leone native who made his own light to power his electricity-deprived neighborhood a few years ago. 

Now, he is attracting the attention of electrical engineers and technology experts across the globe.

We See You, Mr. Kelvin... and We Salute You!

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TOP THAT! | Tim Doner Speaks 20 Languages

Tim Doner is a teen with a unique hobby: studying languages.
In fact, he speaks over 20 of them-- with varying levels of proficiency. Last year, he became "Internet famous" when he posted a YouTube video showcasing his goods. 

Many experts call Tim a "hyper-polyglot"-- a term for the few people who master multiple languages with high proficiency levels. 

In the book, Babel No More, linguist Michael Erard examines "the most extraordinary language learners" of the world. 

According to Mr. Erard, polyglots have a "particular neurology" which allows them to do what most people could only dream of: speak, write, and understand foreign languages with great precision.
Additionally, the author states that polyglots also possess unique social and physical characteristics which could explain their "super human" abilities. 

While polyglots are extremely rare, it is possible that Doner's fame and notoriety will motivate others to be language machines. 

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Chicago's "Murderers' Row": An Epicenter of Urban Violence

It is Chicago's home of irony. 

Just a few steps from the historic Leak & Sons Funeral home is one of Chicago's most deadly areas.

According to Homicide Watch, the area around surrounding the intersection of 79th Street and Cottage Grove Avenue is called "Murderer's Row". 

That's very unbelievable. 

I wish this area was known as "Striver's Row". 

Last May, an innocent school teacher was fatally shot after being caught in gang crossfire near the same intersection. 

For those wondering what community leaders are doing, there has been some effort to curb crime. Pastor John F. Hannah, the charismatic leader of New Life Covenant Church, has organized outings to shut down liquor stores and improve safety.

In addition to churches, the Chicago Police Department has been under scrutiny for its response to the violence. A recent Sun-Times article features the following response from police: 

While some residents say the area is getting worse, there has been a 50 percent decrease in murders along the stretch compared with the same period last year. 

Police have deployed additional resources in the area, including officers on foot posts and in “impact zones,” CPD’s Tracy said.

“There is real progress,” Tracy said. “It’s not just on 79th Street, but throughout the city. … Other than two or three districts, we have reductions in crime throughout the city.”

The issue of more police came up in the above video. And I understand many people may not believe police statistics. It's clear that there's a problem here. What can ultimately be done about it? 

On that note, I am curious to know what candidates for Alderman of the 6th & 8th Wards (around or near that intersection) plan to do about this issue.

~ Levois J.

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