The 5 Year Journey For One of Chicago's Anime Cons

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Kollision Con, Chicago's Anime/Comic Book/Cosplay focused conventions celebrated its 5th Anniversary. One of Chicago's premier cons, whether you would like to start off relaxed for your first ever Con, or would like to add another convention to your list for the year, Kollision Con brings a sense of excitement to the Chicagoland Area to start off the year.

Kollision Con President, Chris Oliva, took the time to chat with us about Kollision Con's history and their goals.

Along with a focus on Anime, Kollision highly focused on Comic Books and nearby local artists to partake in the festivities. This year, Kollision Con stepped up their focus on their Cosplay competition by awarding cash prizes, while emphasizing a high level of cosplay design for everyone, whether competitive or casual.

Musical Guests this year included two key performances for the Japanese punk rock band Uzuhi, and the hip hop rock performances by The Adventures of Duane and Brando.

For those wanting to get into the Voice Acting Industry, Paul St. Peter held 2 key master classes on voice acting which involved volunteers to perform in front of con goers.

This year looks to be a big year for conventions in the Chicagoland area, and Kollision Con is the first to make its mark. Hope to see you all at the next Kollision Con!

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A New Video Shows Chicago From Above--With Beautiful Results!

Over the past 5 years, Chicago has become a major player in the TV & Film industry with hit shows and movies being filmed here. 

Now, Chicago is the star of its own movie.

Soaring Badger Productions has produced a video with a "Bird's Eye View"-- showing Chicago in a way that it has rarely been seen until now. 

Check it out below. 

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Be Multilingual! No More Excuses (Language Club)

You should be tired of your own excuses about not learning a new language.
 
"I'm too old". 

"They speak too quickly". 

"Everyone in the world speaks English". 

I wish there was a way to translate your excuses because they make just as much sense as whispering does to a person with headphones on. 

If you need some motivation, here are a few reasons why you should learn a new language:

* 80% of Americans speak only one language. 
According to the NY Times, about 4 out of 5 Americans only speak one language. While some would argue that English is the official language of the United States, it is still important to know other languages for personal and professional advancement. 

*Foreign language keeps the mind sharp
Studies have shown that learning a foreign language delays dementia. 

* Foreign languages can open the door for new experiences and save one money
If a person is traveling abroad, the knowledge of foreign languages can help them meet new people, save money, and explore more places. 

If you want to take the first step, check out this video:

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People To Watch In '15: Leaders, Teachers, & Creators

After a turbulent 2014, Americans are looking ahead to a better 2015. This year is the midpoint of a decade which has brought new ideas to the forefront. As a result, Zack's TV went looking for people who are leading the way for change. 

Here are a "few" people to watch closely in 2015-- all of whom are paving the way for the next generation:

Glenda Franklin, 50
Political Candidate
Chicago, IL 

Ms. Franklin, a candidate for Alderman in Chicago's 17th Ward, is no stranger to Zack's TV. For the past year, she has been working to create "A New Normal" for residents in one of the city's most disadvantaged areas. With less than 60 days until the election, Ms. Franklin and her staff continue to put in long hours to make sure that every resident is heard.

Chris Lodgson, 31
Soccer Player/Advocate
Manhattan, NY

In more ways than one, this young man has a skill for moving past obstacles to reach his goals. Just 6 years ago, Mr. Lodgson became homeless after losing his hospitality job. Fortunately, he was able to find solace in Street Soccer USA- an organization which uses sports to provide hope for the disadvantaged. 

In 2015, Mr. Lodgson will be someone to watch in the community services field. 

Jaevery McFadden, 27
Former Athlete/Entrepreneur
Riviera Beach, FL

As a former linebacker for the University of Wisconsin, Mr. McFadden knows how to take on any kind of opponent-- whether it be a real person or a personal challenge. 

He is the self-proclaimed "Black Mark Zuckerberg" who is looking to take the social media and communications world by storm in 2015. 

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ONE BLOCK Episode 3 Recap: "Not On My Watch"

Walter Lockhart (played by Kenneth Caldwell) is Chicago's ultimate surrogate father.

In the latest episode of ONE BLOCK, he spends time with his neighbors Shanita (Kai Shanese) and Troy (J. Edison)-- both of whom are real-life siblings. Shanita invites her friend, Oscar-- who has been mentoring Troy-- to meet Walter in a hilarious dinner table scenario.

Check out Episode 3, "Not On My Watch", below and prepare for a major twist in Episode 4-- coming next week! 



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

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