CHICAGO () — With the start of another school year comes a fresh wave of classrooms, teachers, possibilities and new routines for students and families across the city.
Helping Chicago families step into the season with a little more confidence is a familiar guest, Dr. Aleta Clark, widely known as “Englewood Barbie,” along with Cheryle Jackson, CEO of BigHeart Health.
The two stopped by to talk with Val Warner and Ryan Chiaverini about the Hugs No Slugs Back-to-School Drive and the impact it continues to have in the community.
This year’s back-to-school event is expanding in a big way. The drive is scheduled for noon to 4 p.m. Saturday at Englewood STEM High School, with Mayor Brandon Johnson expected to attend as a special guest and address the children and families taking part.
For more than 10 years, Clark’s organization has been a source of support for local residents, offering important services and resources such as free haircuts, dental cleanings, life insurance information and other family-focused assistance.
She shared more about what families can expect at this year’s community event.
Nearly a decade ago, Raven Smith appeared on “Windy City” to spotlight the creative work she was already building at just 17 years old. Now, the Chicago native is returning with a new milestone: the third installment of her Raeted R Creative Co. fashion series. This year’s theme, “Rouge,” dives into punk and alternative style while blending fashion, visual art and storytelling. The showcase is set for Saturday at the Epiphany Center for the Arts.
Couponology is also getting families ready for back-to-school shopping, highlighting deals to help students head into the new year prepared and in style.
Duluth Trading Company
Go back to the classroom in style with Duluth Trading Company’s apparel. The Heritage Wide Jeans and Women’s COOLMAX Chambray Shirt offer an easy, versatile look, while the Fire Hose HD Commuter Lunchbox keeps meals fresh on the go.
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CookUnity
Weeknight dinners just got a whole lot easier and fresher with CookUnity’s chef-crafted meals delivered right to your door. This chef-driven meal delivery service offers meals from 130+ top chefs, including Michelin-starred talent and James Bear Award winners.
Save 50% off your first week, 10% off the next three weeks with code SCHOOL50
COURSERA
Learn new skills and explore the world of artificial intelligence from the top universities and companies. Coursera offers tailored courses for continued education and so much more: 40% on three months of unlimited access with a Coursera Plus subscription.
RAG & BONE
There’s some more room to upgrade your wardrobe with Rag & Bone’s Collegiate Collection. Featured styles include the viral Miramar Sport Stripe Track Pant, giving you a comfortable, chic look.
Get 20% Off Sitewide with code WINDYCITY
Brooklyn Dylan stopped by the “Windy City Weekend” studio to perform her latest single, “Ghost.” This emotional pop-rock anthem explores the memories that linger after a heartbreak.
At just 17, the singer, songwriter and musician has already achieved remarkable success. In 2022, Dylan was named Powerhouse Music Artist of the Year, and at 14, she released her debut single, “How the Story Ends.”
Her breakout hit, “Bad Blood,” marked a major turning point in her career, reaching No. 1 on Top 40 radio, while the music video reached more than 1.7 million views.
Dylan’s debut EP, “Mascara Confessions,” drops this fall.
For more information, visit brooklyndylan.com.
