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The Chicago Defender 2023 #SummerTimeChi Calendar

No other term captures the vibe, energy or essence of Chicago in the Summer like #SummerTimeChi, coined by native son Kanye West. Speaking of which, our #SummerTimeChi calendar is the source for all things fun happening in and around the city this season. Below is a list of Summer events we are eagerly anticipating:  June Chicago […]
The post The Chicago Defender 2023 #SummerTimeChi Calendar first appeared on BlackPressUSA.

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No other term captures the vibe, energy or essence of Chicago in the Summer like #SummerTimeChi, coined by native son Kanye West. Speaking of which, our #SummerTimeChi calendar is the source for all things fun happening in and around the city this season.

Below is a list of Summer events we are eagerly anticipating: 

June

Chicago Gospel Music Festival (June 3)

This free event — yes, I said FREE — features Gospel supernova Tye Tribbett and the inimitable Karen Clark Sheard, among others. The event takes place this Saturday at the Jay Pritzker Pavilion in Millennium Park. Good music for the soul for free? What more can you ask for, honestly? Go here for more information.  

Rhomania Sigma Explosion Fest & TORCH Awards hosted by Delta Sigma Chapter (June 3)

Anytime Bilal and RES are on the bill, you’ll get that good music, that real neo-soul we still cherish. They headline the Rhomania Sigma Explosion Fest & TORCH Awards. This Saturday event is brought to you by the Delta Sigma Alumnae Chapter of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc. Head here for ticket info.

Hadiya’s Promise Presents: The 10th Annual Party4Peace (June 3)

We will always remember Hadiya Pendleton. That’s why we’re glad that Party4Peace continues to honor her memory. This event at Hadiya Pendelton Park will offer food, music, fun and bouncy houses for the little ones. As the name indicates, this is a party in the name of peace — a cause truly worthy of your support. Head here for more info on this free event.

Incognito with Special Guest Loose Ends Featuring Jane Eugene (June 3)

Let’s call this event the British soul invasion. Incognito and Loose Ends, two of the most revered music groups from across the pond, perform at the Hard Rock Casino in Northern Indiana this Saturday evening. Great music by these veteran performers makes for what should be an unforgettable experience. Tickets are available through Ticketmaster.

Sunday Service: In The Garden (June 4)

If DJ Duane Powell presides over the music, it promises to be a soulful and futuristic religious experience. Really. He will host “Sunday Service: In The Garden” outdoors at the charming Kenwood Gardens at 6929 S. Kenwood. Be prepared to dance, sing, shout, and fellowship with the community. Bring your percussive instruments, tambourines, dancing spirit and lawn chairs. Check this Facebook page for more info on this free event.

Rest.Rise.Move.Nourish.Heal. World Premiere (June 8-10)

Red Clay Dance Company closes its 14th season with some heat! This unique experience is described as “a site-responsive dance ritual created by Founder and Artistic Director Vershawn Sanders-Ward and Company in collaboration with composer/music director avery r. young, filmmaker Jovan Landry, and Kelley KFLEYE Moseley and Evelyn Danner.” For ticket info, head on over here 

Chicago Blues Festival (June 8-11)

The largest free Blues fest in the world is back! Blind Boys of Alabama with Bobby Rush, Los Lobos and Mud Morganfield are the headliners. Even if you aren’t into the Blues like that, this fest promises a great time. Hit this link for more info. 

Godfrey at the Chicago Improv Comedy Club (June 8-11)

It’s a homecoming for this comedian, who grew up in Chicago and went to Lane Tech. He’s been setting stages on fire around the world for years with his keen, cutting and insightful brand of comedy. A must follow on Instagram, by the way. Head here for tickets.

Chaka Khan Live at the MCA (June 10)

Speaking of homecomings, there will be none quite as huge and meaningful as this one. Chaka Khan — that’s Ms. Khan, to you —returns to the crib to perform at the Museum of Contemporary Art. If you have the bread, go. Where else can you see a bonafide music legend in the flesh? Tix are available at this link.  

16th Annual Chicago Defender Men of Excellence (June 16)

Powerful, distinguished Black men from Chicago will be honored at the Tinley Park Convention Center, including Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson. This annual event proves that brothers are making serious moves out here. Put on your good clothes for this one. Tickets are available here

Meshell Ndegeocello at Thalia Hall (June 16)

Few artists have the discography, artistic integrity and virtuosity that Ndegeocello possesses. And even fewer have been able to evolve and still remain dope. Her shows are something else too. Find out more by heading to this link

Hyde Park Summer Fest (June 17-18) 

Formerly known as the Hyde Park Brew Fest, this multicultural, multi-generational festival of food, music, culture and vibes returns to the Midway Plaisance. This event blew up, as evidenced by this year’s performers — Clipse, 2 Chainz, Lil Kim, Robert Glasper and Tobe Nwigwe. Tickets are available at the Summer Fest site

Chicago Pride Fest (June 17-18) 

This landmark festival in Northalsted is all about music, fun, freedom and above all, pride. It’s just a $15 suggested donation to experience it all. Click here to learn more. 

Juneteenth Celebration at the Village of Richton Park (June 17)

This celebration rings in the Juneteenth Holiday Weekend with live music, food trucks, vendors, kids activities and a beer garden. This Facebook page has all the info you need. 

Juneteenth Village Fest (June 18)

Food, fun, family, tradition and dope music all day long. That’s what this Douglass Park event promises. Internationally-renowned Black music artists will perform like Angie Stone, Talib Kweli, Marsha Ambrosius, BJ The Chicago Kid, Kindred the Family Soul and more. This is a party with a purpose for real. Get your tickets here

Juneteenth Community BBQ (June 19)

The DuSable Black History Museum and Education Center hosts this Juneteenth celebration that features BBQ, family fun and tradition. To get in the know, click the event page here.  

Chicago House Music Festival (June 23-24)

It’s house music all day and all night long in the city that birthed it. Here are the DJs that are expected to spin — DJ Roy Davis Jr., DJ Psycho-B, NoshaLuv, DJ Emmaculate, and DJ V. Click here for more info.   

Pride in the Park Chicago 2023 (June 23-24)

This two-day festival returns to Grant Park with more music and revelry. Saweetie and DJ Lady D are the headliners for Saturday. Head to this site for ticket info.  

Rhythm and Beats Chicago RnB+AfroBeats Block Party (June 24)

Dance your soul out at this glorious block party that features music from around the globe. This event takes place at City Hall (restaurant) by Fulton Market. Info on this event can be found here.

The Chicago Pride Parade (June 25)

The 52nd annual pride parade returns on the final Sunday of the month, and it might be the biggest one yet. Last year, the Pride Parade came back strong, attracting over one million revelers. Expect this year to be no different. For more information, visit this site.  

Syleena Johnson at City Winery (June 29-30)

The Grammy-nominated, powerhouse vocalist returns home to perform at City Winery Chicago. One thing you’re gonna get from Johnson is a true shot of soul, straight from the gut. That voice of hers just does something to us, too. For more information, visit the City Winery Chicago site.  

Anita Baker at the United Center (June 30)

A landmark Summer concert featuring one of the most distinctive voices in R&B. Anita Baker is truly in a class all by herself, and you can witness living greatness at the UC. Tickets are available here.  

 

July 

Terisa Griffin at City Winery (July 1)

There’s a reason they refer to Griffin as “The Empress of Soul.” She is a renaissance woman who has a track record for putting on memorable performances. Head to City Winery Chicago for more info. 

NASCAR Chicago Street Race (July 1-2)

NASCAR takes over Chicago to host a racing event on a 2.140 mile street circuit. This race has the whole city buzzing, and it hasn’t even started yet. Interested parties should visit the race site for ticket info. 

Chosen Few Picnic & Festival 2023 (July 8)

This destination event at Jackson Park has always had a family reunion feel. The vibes are blissful. Plus, there’s a good chance you’ll run into someone you haven’t seen in a long time. The lineup for this year’s celebration is fire as usual — Wayne Williams, Jesse Saunders, Tony Hatchett, Alan King, Terry Hunter, Andre Hatchett, Mike Dunn and more. Tickets are going fast. 

Millennium Park Summer Film Series — Black Panther: Wakanda Forever (July 25)

The sequel to Black Panther gets the outdoor treatment at Millennium Park on a 40-foot screen. This is the perfect event for the little ones. Visit this site for more info.

Deon Cole at Hard Rock Casino Northern Indiana (June 29)

This is basically a homecoming for one of the most accomplished comedians around. Cole is truly Chicago’s own and few of the new guys have reached his level of stardom. Plus, dude is hilarious. Head here for more info on this event.  

18th Annual Silver Room Sound System Block Party 2023 (July 29-30)

This multigenerational block party has always been a Chicago summer staple. Expect more of the same for this year’s edition, which takes place at Oakwood Beach — beautiful people, fantastic live music, great food and really swell energy. Get your tix here.  

Bantu Fest 2023 (July 29-31)

Another summertime destination for Black Chicagoans. This event brings together people from 30 countries to the Midway Plaisance for a celebration of love, unity, music and fun. You have to get in on this one. Head over to the official Bantu Fest site to do so.  

All Summer Long

Jazzin’ at the Shedd

Live jazz is the ultimate elixir for the mid-week blues. That’s what this Shedd Aquarium event brings you every Wednesday throughout the summer. Jazzin’ lasts from June 7 – August 30, from 5 – 10pm. Go here to get your ticket fix. 

Millennium Park Summer Music Series

Critically-acclaimed musicians from every corner of earth are featured during the Millennium Park Summer Music Series, which occurs Mondays and Thursdays from June 22 – August 21 at the Jay Pritzker Pavilion. This year’s lineup features notable acts like Stephen Marley, Big Freedia, Shemekia Copeland and PJ Morton. Get the 4-1-1 at this link

Ravinia Festival

This summer outdoor music series in Highland Park is an institution. Every year, Ravinia offers something for everyone. Notable acts playing this summer include Santana, The Isley Brothers, Boyz II Men, Lauryn Hill, Buddy Guy, George Benson, John Legend and Ne-Yo. Visit the Ravinia site for more info.   

The post The Chicago Defender 2023 #SummerTimeChi Calendar appeared first on Chicago Defender.

The post The Chicago Defender 2023 #SummerTimeChi Calendar first appeared on BlackPressUSA.

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2026 Lucid Air Grand Touring Review — Is This $136K EV Sedan Worth It?

AUTONETWORK ON BLACKPRESSUSA — Finished in Stellar White Metallic with the Tahoe Grand Touring interior, this Lucid makes a strong first impression. The shape is sleek and low, but it still feels elegant instead of trying too hard. Features like soft-close doors, powered illuminated door handles, 20-inch Aero Lite wheels, and the Glass Canopy Roof help the car feel expensive before you even start it.

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The 2026 Lucid Air Grand Touring is the kind of luxury EV that makes people stop and ask a simple question: Is this really better than a Tesla Model S, Mercedes EQS, or BMW i7? At $136,150, it has to do more than look futuristic. It has to feel special every time you get in it.

Finished in Stellar White Metallic with the Tahoe Grand Touring interior, this Lucid makes a strong first impression. The shape is sleek and low, yet it still feels elegant rather than trying too hard. Features like soft-close doors, powered illuminated door handles, 20-inch Aero Lite wheels, and the Glass Canopy Roof help the car feel expensive before you even start it.

Inside is where the Air Grand Touring really makes its case. The 34-inch Glass Cockpit Display and retractable Pilot Panel screen give the cabin a clean, modern look that still feels different from other EVs. The Tahoe Extended Leather and Lucid Black Alcantara headliner lifts the sense of occasion, and the front seats are a highlight. They are 20-way power-adjustable, heated, ventilated, and include massage. That matters because luxury buyers at this price expect comfort first.

Rear passengers are not ignored either. You get 5-zone heated rear seating, a rear center console display, and power rear and rear side window sunshades. Add in the Surreal Sound Pro system with 21 speakers, and the Air feels like a true long-distance luxury sedan.

Lucid also gives this car serious EV hardware. The dual-motor all-wheel-drive system, 900V+ charging architecture, and Wunderbox onboard charger are big talking points. Buyers in this segment care about range, charging speed, and everyday ease, not just raw performance. That is where the Lucid continues to stand out.

On the technology side, the Air Grand Touring includes DreamDrive Premium, with 3D Surround View Monitoring, Blind Spot Warning, Automatic Park In and Out, Automatic Emergency Braking, and a Driver Monitoring System with distracted and drowsy driver alerts. This one also has DreamDrive Pro, which adds future-capable ADAS hardware.

There are still some real-world annoyances. Based on your notes, the windshield wiper control is hard to find and use, and that matters more than people think in a high-tech car. When controls become less intuitive, even a beautiful interior can feel frustrating.

Still, the 2026 Lucid Air Grand Touring succeeds where it matters most. It feels luxurious, advanced, comfortable, and thoughtfully engineered. For buyers who want an EV sedan that feels truly premium and less common than the usual choices, this Lucid makes a very strong case.


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Snoop Dogg Celebrates 10 Til’ Midnight at the Compound

LOS ANGELES SENTINEL — The album is paired with a film that stars Snoop Dogg, Hitta J3, G Perico, and Ray Vaughn, and one of the strongest elements of the whole project is that the production stayed rooted right here in Los Angeles.

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Snoop Dogg celebrated the premiere of 10 Til’ Midnight at his Inglewood recording studio & multipurpose facility, The Compound, but the night felt like much more than an album release. It felt like Los Angeles. It felt like legacy. And it felt like another major move from one of the city’s greatest cultural architects as he continues to prove that he is not just dropping music — he is building moments, shaping narratives, and pushing the culture forward in real time.

What made the event so powerful was the clarity behind the vision. During a panel conversation with DJ Hed, Snoop opened up about the heart behind 10 Til’ Midnight, explaining that the project was created to help bridge older and younger generations while also speaking to the long-standing divisions between Bloods and Crips in a unique way through film. That alone gave the project a different kind of weight. This was not just about songs. This was about using creativity as a tool for connection. This was about taking a story rooted in Los Angeles and telling it in a way that could bring people together.

Snoop Congratulated By Rapper & Fellow 10 Til Midnight Cast Member G Perico (CreativeLB/KreativeKapturez)

Snoop Congratulated By Rapper & Fellow 10 Til Midnight Cast Member G Perico (CreativeLB/KreativeKapturez)

The album is paired with a film that stars Snoop Dogg, Hitta J3, G Perico, and Ray Vaughn, and one of the strongest elements of the whole project is that the production stayed rooted right here in Los Angeles. The film was shot in the city, including at WePlay Studios in Inglewood, which gave the entire project an even deeper hometown feel. It was not just a West Coast story in content — it was a Los Angeles-made production from the ground up.

That matters because, in a city like this, authenticity still carries weight. Snoop understands how to make sure that what he creates does not just represent Los Angeles on the surface, but actually comes from it.

What also makes 10 Til’ Midnight significant is that it represents another major step in Snoop’s evolution as both an artist and executive. Public reporting around the project identifies it as his 22nd studio album, but the bigger story is what it represents in this season of his life. This is one of several consecutive moves he has made in his 50s that show he is still building, still expanding, and still finding new ways to reinvent what the next chapter looks like.

Snoop Dogg at the Premiere of 10 Til Midnight (CreativeLB/KreativeKapturez)

Snoop Dogg at the Premiere of 10 Til Midnight (CreativeLB/KreativeKapturez)

Now, as the head of Death Row Records and the newly aligned leader of Death Row Pictures, he is taking the brand into a new dimension. That is what made this moment feel bigger than music. Snoop is not just protecting the legacy of Death Row — he is stretching it. He is expanding it beyond records and into film, visual storytelling, and larger creative worlds that can continue carrying the label’s impact forward. Public reporting has noted that this project arrives as part of that broader cinematic push.

That is a major Los Angeles move because the city has always been built on the intersection of music, film, neighborhood identity, and cultural storytelling. With 10 Til’ Midnight, Snoop is leaning all the way into that intersection.

The room at The Compound reflected that. It felt like a private premiere, but it also felt like a statement — a reminder that Snoop Dogg’s staying power has never been based only on nostalgia. It comes from his ability to remain connected, remain visionary, and remain in tune with how to move the culture without losing the essence of who he is.

That is why this premiere mattered. It was not just about celebrating another album. It was about witnessing a Los Angeles legend continue to evolve, continue to unify, and continue to use art to tell stories that hit deeper than entertainment alone.

In that sense, 10 Til’ Midnight became more than a project launch. It became another example of how Snoop Dogg is still taking Los Angeles to the next level — using music, film, and legacy together to build something bigger than a moment.

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OP-ED: Small Businesses Need Minnesota to Act on Pass-Through Tax Policy

MINNESOTA SPOKESMAN RECORDER — A Twin Cities immigrant entrepreneur who built several businesses including grocery stores in underserved neighborhoods is calling on Minnesota lawmakers to extend the Pass-Through Entity tax option before it expires, warning that its loss would hit small businesses already recovering from Operation Metro Surge with higher federal tax bills.

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A Twin Cities Small Business Owner Is Urging Minnesota to Extend a Tax Policy That Could Save Thousands of Businesses

By Daniel Hernandez | Minnesota Spokesman Recorder

I came to the United States as a teenager with a clear goal: to build something meaningful through hard work. I put in long days in construction, restaurants, and landscaping; doing whatever it took to learn, save, and eventually start my own business.

Over time, I built and ran several successful ventures, including an event photography company, a magazine, a tax and accounting firm, and now grocery stores serving neighborhoods across the Twin Cities where other retailers chose not to invest. I’ve created jobs, supported families, and committed to communities that deserve stability and opportunity.

That’s why I’m speaking out now.

Small business owners in Minneapolis and the communities we serve are recovering from serious disruptions, including the impacts of Operation Metro Surge. That event hit immigrant communities especially hard. In my own case, I lost nearly half of my 60 employees and saw revenue drop by about 85%. While I worked to provide competitive wages, health benefits, and paid time off, the real hardship fell on the people who lost their jobs and income.

Even as we rebuild, small businesses are facing another challenge. The Minnesota Legislature is considering letting an important tax policy expire: the Pass-Through Entity tax option.

Here’s what that means in plain terms.

Many small businesses, including mine, are pass-through businesses. That means the business itself doesn’t pay income tax. Instead, the owners report the income on their personal tax returns. But under current federal rules, there’s a limit on how much state tax we can deduct. That often leads to higher federal tax bills.

The Pass-Through Entity option fixes that. It allows the business to pay the state tax directly, which means the business can fully deduct those taxes on its federal return and lower the total amount of income taxed federally. The result is straightforward: small business owners pay less in federal taxes, without reducing what the state collects.

This policy is not new or controversial. Thirty-six states already offer it. It doesn’t cost Minnesota anything, it’s revenue neutral. And it benefits more than 66,000 businesses across the state.

In a state where the cost of doing business is already high, it’s hard to understand why we wouldn’t offer the same basic tax treatment as states like California and Illinois.

Small businesses have carried a heavy load in recent years, through a pandemic, rising costs and public safety disruptions. We’ve adapted, reinvested and stayed committed to our communities. What we need now are practical policies that support that work, not make it harder.

If the Minnesota House does not act soon, many businesses will face significantly higher federal tax bills. That’s money that could otherwise be used to hire workers, raise wages or reinvest in local neighborhoods.

I urge Gov. Tim Walz and members of the House Tax Committee to pass House File 3127 and extend the Pass-Through Entity election.

Small businesses are the backbone of our communities. We’ve proven our resilience. Now we need our state leaders to show the same commitment to us.

Daniel Hernandez is the owner of Colonial Market located at 2100 E. Lake St.

 

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