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ComEd’s “Construct” Graduation Highlights Diverse Candidates for Local Construction Work Jobs
- Apr 17, 2018
On Friday, ComEd hosted a graduation ceremony for the largest graduating class of CONSTRUCT, a nine-week job training program aimed at getting more diverse candidates into local construction and energy jobs.
CONSTRUCT, organized by ComEd in conjunction with 38 construction industry companies, two local utilities, and eight social service agencies, offers participants the information and guidance needed to compete for entry-level construction and project management jobs in construction and energy-related fields
“Jobs are the lifeblood of our communities, providing them with economic strength and vitality. We understand the importance of being a local employer and we are proud to offer a pathway to our industry for people of our communities,” said Anne Pramaggiore, president and CEO of ComEd. “We applaud the 2018 graduates and look forward to their participation in the construction workforce of the future.”
The 2018 CONSTRUCT class is the sixth group to go through the program since its inception in 2013. Career guidance, life skills training, and practical education about the construction industry are part of the program, as well as increased knowledge of requirements for entering construction-related fields successfully. The 2018 curriculum was updated with courses focused on the growing need for project management skills in the Construction industry, along with additional courses in high-rise construction. Additional coursework related to renewable energy, including solar, was added in 2017.
CONSTRUCT offers instruction and access to special sessions where students can hear from and meet company representatives. There is the opportunity to job shadow, and to attend a career fair to learn about a range of potential job opportunities in the industry. To date, more than 400 students have participated in the program, including the 109 new participants this year. The success and continued growth of this program is due in great measure to the construction industry companies that are looking to hire local, diverse candidates to join their workforce.
Participating companies include: Intren, Labor organizations - IBEW Locals 9, 15, 134, 196 and Chicago Area Laborers, Nicor Gas, Peoples Gas, ABB, Inc., Aldridge, Ardmore Roderick, Builders Association, Burling Builders, “D” Construction, Inc., David Mason + Associates, d’Escoto, Inc., Electric Conduit Construction, Environmental Design, Inc., F.H Paschen, Groundhog Utility Construction, HBK Engineering, Henkels & McCoy, John Burns Construction Co., KDM Engineering, Lindblad Construction, LiveWire, Magellan Development Group, James McHugh Construction, Meade, Midwest Access Solutions, MJ Electric, MZI Group, Inc., Nash Brothers Construction Company, Inc., NPL Construction, Olenick & Associates, Osmose Utilities Services, Inc., PMI Energy Solutions, Primera Engineers, Rabine Group, The BarTech Group, Trice Construction Company, United Scrap Metal, V3 Companies and Trinidad Construction. ??
“All the contractors, the companies involved, you just don’t meet these people every day; it’s priceless,” said Dexter Allison, a 2014 graduate of the program, whose sons Damier and Dexter, Jr., are part of the 2018 program. “For our family, it’s been the opportunity of a lifetime.”
“I learned a lot throughout the program, but I gained the most confidence from my job shadowing experience,” said Gregory Rounds. “I’m really excited to go out there and find a job that I really love, that I can make a career out of.”
Understanding the need to help knock down barriers to entry for construction-related fields, CONSTRUCT launched in May 2013 out of a partnership between ComEd, Intren and the labor unions. What began with ComEd, 10 companies and three social service agencies has grown to include Illinois’ other major utilities - Nicor Gas, Peoples’ Gas, 38 companies and eight social service agencies.
To complete the program, participants must attend at least 95 percent of the full-day classes and take the select, required tests. Upon completion of the program, participants can choose any number of career paths, from applying to work with the participating companies and satisfying any applicable union requirements, to applying to work with ComEd or employers in other sectors.
While completion of the program does not guarantee a job, individuals who complete the program successfully are trained to be qualified, knowledgeable, and ready to compete for construction jobs in Illinois.
Anyone interested in applying should contact the agencies directly. The agency contact numbers are:
ASPIRA of Illinois
773-252-0970
Austin Peoples Action Center
773-378-8760
Chicago Urban League
773-285-5800
National Latino Education Institute
773-247-0707, ext. 223
Quad County Urban League
630-851-2203, ext. 222
St. Sabina’s Employment Resource Center
773-783-3760
SER Jobs for Progress
773-542-9030
YWCA of Metropolitan Chicago
773-955-3100
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Commonwealth Edison Company (ComEd) is a unit of Chicago-based Exelon Corporation (NYSE: EXC), the nation’s leading competitive energy provider, with approximately 10 million customers. ComEd provides service to approximately 3.9 million customers across northern Illinois, or 70 percent of the state’s population. For more information visit ComEd.com, and connect with the company on Facebook, Twitter and YouTube.
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Taxes for Barbers and Beauticians
- Reprinted from Chicago Defender, Constant W. Watson, III Defender Guest Columnist, Apr 6, 2018
Whether you are a shop owner or a booth renter (independent contractor), you need to know your federal tax responsibilities...
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PARENT ENRICHMENT SERIES FOR ACADEMIC SUCCESS STARTS 4/11 at SCOTT JOPLIN, SIGN UP NOW!
- Coretta J. Pruitt "CJ", Apr 4, 2018
Parent Enrichment programming which will be held beginning NEXT WEDNESDAY (4/11/18) at the PARENT UNIVERSITY of AG Room 217 at Scott Joplin. Click link to download the flyer!
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Auburn Gresham Free Tax Site Season 2018, It's a Wrap!
- Apr 3, 2018
Auburn Gresham Free Tax Site is OPEN through Tuesday, April 17, 2018. The Tax Site is a first come first serve, so plan accordingly!
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First Ever Mesothelioma Race for Justice in Illinois
- Apr 2, 2018
Chicago, IL (April 2, 2018) - Vogelzang Law, a Chicago-based personal injury law firm dedicated to representing victims of mesothelioma throughout the US, will host its first Annual Mesothelioma Race for Justice on September 22, 2018 in tribute to National Mesothelioma Awareness Day. The 5K race will be held at the Lake County Forest Preserve Half Day location in Vernon Hills, IL at 9 a.m. The proceeds from this year’s race will benefit the Mesothelioma Applied Research Foundation.
“Vogelzang Law is proud to present the 2018 Mesothelioma Race for Justice, benefiting the Mesothelioma Applied Research Foundation. It is exhilarating and gratifying to help bring the mesothelioma community together and heighten awareness of this debilitating disease. There is something undeniably unifying and exciting about a sporting event, so in the name of community, competition, health and awareness, we encourage you all to enjoy the race,” said Caylei Vogelzang, Director of Business Strategy.
The silent auction will begin at 7:30 a.m. on race day. Shortly after that, an opening ceremony will be held to welcome all attendees and the race will commence at 9:00 a.m. During the race, volunteers will distribute Gatorade and water to participants. At 11 a.m., the winners of the silent auction will be announced, and the event will officially end at noon. Post-race, attendees will enjoy refreshments, awesome goodie bags and a huge after party. Each 5K participant will also receive a race medal.
“It is my honor and privilege to step into the role of race director for the Mesothelioma Race for Justice 5K. Through the years as Public Relations Manager at Vogelzang Law, I have seen the devastating and cruel effects of this disease first hand. I have also seen the inspiring stories of hope and perseverance in one day finding a cure. Through the funds raised for the Mesothelioma Applied Research Foundation, my belief is that one day we can find that cure. I have been fortunate to see the brave families our firm has represented, who in the face of fear and adversity, are willing to stand as a community, support one another, and reach out to other families that have been affected by this disease. This race is our contribution to their tenacity,” said Race Organizer and Vogelzang Law’s Public Relations Manager Mirela Stefanescu.
The Mesothelioma Applied Research Foundation (MARF) devotes extensive efforts to funding mesothelioma research in hopes of finding better treatment options and a cure. They have awarded over $10 million to 106 high-quality, promising research projects in six different countries.
"We’re thrilled that Vogelzang Law is sponsoring a race to benefit the Mesothelioma Applied Research Foundation. The funds raised will support the Foundation's programs, including research, patient support throughout diagnosis, treatment, and beyond; and financial aid for travel to obtain new treatment options," said Melinda Kotzian, CEO of the Mesothelioma Applied Research Foundation.
A keynote speaker and leading the race will be Chris Hagn, who lost his father to mesothelioma. Chris’s personal, heartfelt story will inspire other families who are going through or have gone through similar experiences as him.
The registration fee for the race is $45. Everyone who registers will receive a race day shirt at packet pick-up and a medal at the finish line. Packet pick-up will take place at the Fleet Feet Deerfield location, dates and times will be announced closer to race day.
Sponsors for the event are MARF, Fleet Feet, Rush University, the American Lung Association, the American Cancer Society, Hinckley Springs, Lifeway, Safe + Fair Food Company, the Chicago Wolves and Gilda’s. Anyone who wishes to volunteer or be a sponsor is welcome to sign up.
Registration is now open. Visit www.mesotheliomaraceforjustice.com.
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About Vogezlang Law
Vogelzang Law, we represent and advocate for individuals who have been diagnosed with cancer as a result of asbestos exposure. With over 16 years of experience in mesothelioma and asbestos litigation, we have the specialized knowledge and resources needed to litigate complicated cases and the compassion to advocate wholeheartedly for our clients.
About MARF
The Mesothelioma Applied Research Foundation (MARF) devotes extensive efforts to funding research for better treatments and a cure for Mesothelioma. They have awarded over $10 million to 106 high-quality, promising research projects in six different countries. This funding has helped 240 pieces to be published as a result of these research projects and on average, 600 people are helped every month by these efforts. MARF funds research in early detection, prevention, and treatment of Mesothelioma, and they have firmly supported the ban of asbestos since their establishment.
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ComEd's Construct Program Creates Greater Opportunities through New Project Management Track
- Reprinted from TruthBTold, Karina Rosado / Purple Group, Mar 28, 2018
ComEd's Construct Program Creates Greater Opportunities through New Project Management Track.
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#STEM Is in the Air This Spring Break!
- Mar 27, 2018
GAGDC STEM Day with GCM Grosvenor and Chicago Cares hosted at Leo Catholic High School a huge success!
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94 Million in Property Tax Refunds Available on New Website Cook County Treasurer's Office
- Mar 27, 2018
Cook County property owners can recover $94.1 million in tax overpayments by going to
cookcountytreasurer.com, Treasurer Maria Pappas said.
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Women Influence Chicago and Vibes Partner to Produce Lumity One-Day Challenge
- Posted by: Gary Hotze Friday, March 23, 2018, Mar 27, 2018
The Lumity One Day Challenge inventive program is meant to immerse underserved teens and young adults in life-changing experiences to prepare them for life-long STEM careers.
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"Loving Our Natural Hair" Curl Clinic
- Sonya Marie Harper, Mar 26, 2018
On Saturday April 14th, natural hair enthusiasts, experts and stylists converge on the south side for the "Loving Our Natural Hair" Curl Clinic, a natural hair and bodycare seminar. It will take place at Whole Foods Market from 2pm - 5pm and is free and open to all ages.
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‘YOUTH IN FRONT’ ARMS ACTIVISTS WITH POLITICAL PROWESS
- Christa Graff, Mar 21, 2018
YouthInFront, a new online learning resource, provides safe, practical strategies for middle school and high school-aged individuals to peacefully protest in planned national school walkouts and marches scheduled on March 24 and April 20.
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Advocate Trinity Hospital President Makes Top Minority Execs List
- Cassie Richardson, Mar 8, 2018
Terika Richardson recognized for improving health outcomes, driving innovation to advance care delivery
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In Search of the Ideal Nonprofit Community
- Valerie F. Leonard, Mar 7, 2018
Valerie F. Leonard, a local expert in community and organizational development, will be launching the Nonprofit Utopia community in June of this year. Nonprofit Utopia is a community of emerging nonprofit leaders, designed to provide a safe environment in which members can innovate, speak candidly about the issues and concerns they face on a daily basis, and share ideas and resources.
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Spring Break STEM Robotics FUN!
- Mar 7, 2018
We only have 5 spots remaining for 2nd through 5th graders in our Spring Break STEM (Science Technology Engineering and Math) Day, March 26, 2018.
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17th Ward Polling Places
- Mar 6, 2018
17th Ward Polling Places list attached. Please note location change for 3 precincts.
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Defendant's ‘Lack of Personal Jurisdiction’ Defense Denied
- Mar 6, 2018
A Cook County Court will see a case against a North Dakota company, thanks to a momentous order by Honorable Judge Clare E. McWilliams granting personal jurisdiction to the Illinois forum.
The February 20th order in the John C. Clark v. A.W. Chesterton Company, et al. case sets a new precedent for Illinois residents seeking trial in their home state and offers a more efficient path to justice in mesothelioma and asbestos cases.
While working as an employee of the Illinois-based United Conveyor Corporation, John C. Clark was contracted for a job for the North Dakota Great River Energy company. As such, he traveled back and forth between the two states. For the duration of his contract with GRE, Clark was subjected to asbestos exposure both on the job and upon his return home to Illinois, where the “take-home exposure” from asbestos dust on his clothes and shoes continued to damage his lungs.
Seeking relief from his injury, Clark sued GRE in Illinois court, only for the company to attempt to have the case dismissed over a personal jurisdiction dispute.
Judge McWilliams’ order denies GRE’s claims that personal jurisdiction cannot be established in Illinois and company requests to relocate the trial to North Dakota or Minnesota due to their location. Such claims would allow the company to put a greater burden on the injured party, forcing Clark to relocate the case.
In her order, the judge stated that because GRE worked with an Illinois company, and allowed employees to travel back into the state without establishing proper safety precautions that prevented asbestos exposure in Cook County, the case should be tried in an Illinois Court. As Clark’s injury occurred in Illinois, the state will have jurisdiction and be allowed to try the case.
The decision also protects Clark’s chances of obtaining “efficient and effective relief”, allowing him to remain in Illinois and avoid the expenses of multiple lawsuits across state lines.
This development marks a historic victory for asbestos and mesothelioma victims seeking legal recourse. Many employees who have suffered occupational exposure to asbestos traveled out-of-state for their jobs, frequently in professions like construction or industrial work. A multijurisdictional case, in which a Plaintiff must seek trial in every state in which they worked and suffered exposure, can be lengthy and complicated, causing undue stress and financial difficulty to injured parties seeking justice.
Judge McWilliams’ decision in Clark v. A.W. Chesterton creates a model which future mesothelioma cases may follow and outlines a swift and uncomplicated path to justice for victims of asbestos exposure. Thanks to Judge McWilliams, Illinois workers seeking redress for injury inflicted by out-of-state companies may be able to remain in their home state for trial.
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MacArthur Foundation PROGRAM OFFICER, CHICAGO COMMITMENT Job Opening
- Mar 6, 2018
An opening for an additional Program Officer with the Chicago Commitment team at the MacArthur Foundation.
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Funds awarded to develop app targeting teen pregnancy
- Mar 5, 2018
Project will develop and test the first app and toolkit for African-American teen girls in the Englewood community.
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2018 Senior Enrichment Seminar Schedule
- Mar 2, 2018
The Circuit Court of Cook County Elder Justice Center Elder Justice Center is offering training for for persons age 60 and older involved in legal proceedings.
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Community Grand Rounds | Managing diabetes in the community!
- UChicago Medicine, Urban Health Initiaitve, Mar 2, 2018
Check the highlights of the January 2018 Community Grand Rounds!
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New adult emergency room is now open
- Mar 2, 2018
In December, the University of Chicago Medicine opened a bigger and more advanced adult Emergency Department (ED).
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VOGELZANG LAW ANNOUNCES A NEW OFFICE SPACE
- Feb 28, 2018
Chicago, IL - Vogelzang Law, a Chicago-based personal injury law firm dedicated to representing victims of mesothelioma throughout the United States, announced their new office space located at 401 N. Michigan Ave, Suite 350, Chicago, IL. The new larger office space has excellent views, professional meeting rooms, a comfortable “think tank,” a memorial wall and a highly functional and collaborative space for the firm’s dedicated attorneys and staff.
“We are so excited about our new office! We look forward to welcoming our new and current clients and sharing this wonderful space with everyone from Vogelzang Law,” said Caylei Vogelzang, Director of Business Strategy.
The new office is located in a beautiful spot right by the Chicago River in a historical landmark building, which includes a gym, a cafe, and an upscale floor with conference space and lounges.
For more information, visit: www.vogelzanglaw.com or call 312-466-1669.
About Vogelzang Law
Vogelzang Law represents and advocates for individuals diagnosed with cancer as a result of asbestos exposure. With more than 16 years of experience in mesothelioma and asbestos litigation, we have the specialized knowledge and resources needed to litigate complicated cases and the compassion necessary to advocate wholeheartedly for our clients.
After a number of years working in asbestos litigation firms, attorney Nicholas Vogelzang founded Vogelzang Law in 2016 as a personal injury law firm dedicated to victims of mesothelioma in the United States. We understand the difficulties that come with a devastating asbestos-related diagnosis, and our goal is to lessen our clients’ load by providing top-notch legal representation.
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Intimacy With God | Lenten Relections Five-Week Series | Week #2
- February 27, 2018—INCREASE EFFECTIVENESS OF MY PRAYER LIFE - Pastor Thulani Magwaza, Feb 27, 2018
February 27, 2018—INCREASE EFFECTIVENESS OF MY PRAYER LIFE - Pastor Thulani Magwaza
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Breakfast and Blues for Seniors February 2018!
- Join GAGDC's "Have A Heart for Seniors Campaign", Feb 24, 2018
We're serving more Seniors! Come enjoy great live blues band, food and help us in the campaign to give a heart to our seniors, during the February 2018 Breakfast and Blues for Seniors!
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Prom 2018 Sendoff Giveaway!
- J'Shanti Custom Events & Design, Feb 23, 2018
J'Shanti Custom Events and Design is hosting a Prom 2018 Sendoff Giveaway! #TagSenior