Category: Community

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02.10.22 | Arts & Culture

5 Podcasts to Help You Start the Year off Great

With the new year comes a plethora of rich podcasts for audiences to dive into. As our Vibrant Learning Program with Chicago Commons continues to explore the affordances of modern technology, we wanted to share a few tips of our own. Last autumn, we spotlighted five of our favorite podcasts at the time, and today, we’re spotlighting five more that are sure to bring you joy and an excess of knowledge throughout the year:

Hidden Brain

Hidden Brains

Hidden Brains prides itself on being “a conversation about life’s unseen patterns”. Each week, the stimulating show explores deep questions that lay at the heart of the changing world to help listenings not only better understand their surroundings but also themselves. Episodes range from discussions on the psychology of self-doubt, working from home, difficulties of apologizing and everything in between. Archived episodes of the beloved podcast can be found on NPR, and new episodes can be found on Spotify, Apple Podcasts and more. 

Reply All 

For some of us, the internet is an unexplored world and for others, it’s a comforting tool. And while those audiences seem distant, Reply All provides a perfect place for everyone – novice or expert – to listen and learn. The tech podcast does an amazing job of exploring stories involving complex technologies in accessible ways, explaining what they are talking about as they go. Previous episodes have included investigating online scams to the best accounts you should follow on various social media platforms. You can listen to Reply All on Spotify, Apple Podcasts and more.  

Grief Cast

While a podcast all about the process of grief might not sound fun, Grief Cast explores themes hard to find anywhere else in the podcast world. Cariad Lloyd, the podcast’s host, brings a new comedian guest to the show each week, which helps transform the discussion into a dark comedy at times. Wandering through discussions of grief, loss, and the “weirdness that happens when someone passes”, Grief Cast is a perfect podcast for anyone looking to feel a little better during a hard time. You can listen to the podcast on Spotify, Apple Podcasts and more. 

How to Fail With Elizabeth Day

With so many podcasts filled with stories of success, it’s sometimes just nice to hear how some people’s failures led to a larger impact than their largest success. How to Fail With Elizabeth Day provides just that; Day shares her platform to interview a variety of guests on how their failures have shaped who they have become today. The inspiring, comforting and relatable podcast showcases just how when we think we’ve hit rock bottom, there is always a way up. You can find the podcast on Spotify, Apple Podcasts and more. 

The Daily

Known as one of the most popular podcasts around, The Daily covers all you need to know about world news in less than 20 minutes. The New York Times produced podcast covers one in-depth news story each weekday. Michael Barbaro, journalist and the host of the show, provides listeners with the top story of the day paired with guests that include Maggie Haberman and Glenn Thrush, other acclaimed journalists. The archived episodes are easy to explore for listeners, and there are many ways to listen, including on Apple Podcasts, Amazon Echo or simply from The New York Time’s Website.  

While podcasts may be an unknown area for many, the audio stories afford amazing resources, tools and manners of entertainment for both newcomers and natives alike. You can listen to each of the podcasts on their websites, Spotify, Apple Music, Amazon Music or Google Podcasts. 

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02.03.22 | Sage Advice®

Why It’s Imperative to Learn and Understand Modern Technology

It seems like every day, a new form of technology attracts the masses to its platform, which can be frustrating for those of us who are still trying to understand channels like Facebook or, more recently, Zoom. In celebration of the launch of our Vibrant Learning Program in partnership with Chicago Commons Adults Day Services, we’re highlighting just how important it is for people of all ages to understand modern technology.

Although the process of learning about today’s technology may seem daunting, the result of doing so comes with a variety of benefits that many look past. 

Connectivity

One of the most important reasons why we should embrace technology is because of the amazing ways it allows us to connect with others. For those of us who have long-distance family and friends, applications like Facetime and Zoom make it easy to reach them no matter how far away they are. Social platforms like Facebook and Instagram also make it easier to reach those in your network and others who might share interests with you.

A Hub for Entertainment and Other Conveniences

Along with the various connectivity features many modern technologies offer, many also provide users with accessible forms of entertainment and other conveniences. While TV and movies can be easily found through apps like Netflix and Hulu, other applications provide spaces to complete puzzles, explore new books and listen to your favorite podcast. 

Online shopping is another amazing affordance computers and smartphones offer to their users. With almost anything you want at your fingertips, not only are these technologies convenient, but they also help users make more informed decisions. 

Improve Health and Wellness 

Another great reason why you shouldn’t stray away from exploring new technology is that they provide resources to improve your health and wellness in accessible ways. For those of us who don’t like leaving our house to work out, we can have any exercise at our fingertips with the touch of a button. Platforms like Youtube and Google supply thousands of helpful materials and videos that anyone case you to increase their fitness. 

With other resources like health monitors being built into new technologies like Apple Watches and Fitbits, along with various health-related research websites and platforms, modern technology has advanced the way almost everyone has access to health needs.

Whether you enjoy using various modern technologies or not, taking a step out of your comfort zone to explore the vast benefits they can provide is worth the experience.

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01.27.22 | Health & Wellness

How Volunteering Can Combat Loneliness and Other Health Issues

Loneliness is a complex topic we’ve only discussed loosely at Sage Collective. Now more than ever, due to various negative circumstances, everyone is feeling the effects of being lonely. With various precautions and protocols limiting interaction still prevalent throughout the nation, many are searching for new opportunities that will fulfill a vital need for communication and synergy. Today, we’re exploring how volunteering and simple acts of kindness towards others can reverse loneliness. 

Beyond the obvious fact that you may find yourself interacting with more individuals in person or virtually through volunteer work, the act of being kind towards others has the power to improve our health in various ways. 

Surrounding yourself with individuals who also care about helping others, especially through turbulent times, helps broaden social networks and even has the ability to broaden world views and inspire purpose, especially in adults. In a recent study conducted in Britain, more than two-thirds of volunteer participants found that they felt less isolated and lonesome.

Along with increasing sociability and spirits, assisting others helps improve physical and mental well-being. A more native study conducted in Detroit found that even while still encountering the stressful events that many of us confront every day, those who spent time helping others through activities like running errands, performing housework or childcare experienced a positive buffer against everyday stressors and ultimately lived longer. 

There are endless ways you can spend time volunteering on both the local and national levels. At a local level, civic groups, service clubs and faith organizations are the perfect place to start your search for lending a hand. Conversely, websites like VolunteerMatch and Engage offer visitors a variety of options to volunteer around them based on their interests and experience.

Next time you’re feeling isolated or in need of socialization, explore different ways in which you can aid your community or look bigger and discover an organization in need of volunteers. Who knows, along with gaining a few new friends, you might learn something new about yourself you didn’t before.

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01.20.22 | Arts & Culture

National Bills Look to Recognize Bronzeville as a National Heritage Area

At Sage Collective, Bronzeville has always held a significantly special place in our hearts and identity. And, even as we continue to expand beyond our neighborhood’s borders, one of our favorite things is to spotlight the achievements and impacts that the community leaves on Chicago and the rest of the country. Today we’re exploring our neighborhood’s latest recognition: the national bills seeking to honor Bronzeville as a National Heritage Area.

Over the past few years, Bronzeville has seen a true renaissance; welcoming new businesses, families and cultures while still showing deep respect and appreciation for its vibrant history. As one of the most thriving Black communities throughout the early 20th century, Bronzeville set itself apart as a hub for talented artists and musicians, stunning architecture, booming businesses and more. 

Introduced by US Representative Bobby Bush and Senator Dick Durban, the bills intend to identify a new national heritage site within Bronzeville because of its rich contribution to the country’s culture. Although a similar bill in 2016 proved unsuccessful in passing, the latest version is backed by extensive planning and organizing.

If passed, the exciting recognition would welcome a breath of energy to the community. With more and more developments blooming each day, the implementation of the bills would further expand the resurgence within the community. They now head to the subcommittee on National Parks, where they get reviewed before being voted on by the United States House and Senate. 

With only two other National Historic Areas in the state, Bronzeville would continue to set itself apart as a cultural landmark not only within Illinois but throughout the country. You can find updates on the progress of the House of Representatives’ bill here and the Senate’s bill here. 

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01.13.22 | Sage Advice®

How to Continue Aging Successfully in 2022

At Sage Collective, we advocate for aging better, whether you are 75 years old or 55. No matter your age, incorporating these strategies into your life can help dramatically as time passes. Here are a few secrets on how to successfully age in the new year: 

Gain Self-awareness

As we age, health continues to be a huge priority for many adults. Gaining self-awareness means taking a critical look at your life right now and deciding what you’re able to maintain and what is no longer possible. As you continue to age, reflect on how your body reacts to certain activities and make adjustments where you feel is needed. For example, if you’re noticing that your usual workout routine is becoming too strenuous on your body, switch it out for something more forgiving like swimming or yoga. 

The same goes for your appearance! If it’s becoming too much work to color your grays away, embrace your natural look. A major key to aging successfully is embracing the changes in yourself and your body and adapting as necessary. 

Stay Active

In the same vein, staying active plays a huge role in how your body fares as you age. For older adults, studies have shown that maintaining an active lifestyle rather than a sedentary one leads to a longer, happier life. In the new year, engage in exercise that is more forgiving for older adults; we recommend water aerobics, pilates, walks and resistance bands workouts! As you exercise, listen to your body and pay close attention to how your muscles and joints are feeling – if you’re feeling tense and achy, opt for something gentler. 

Adopt Super-Aging Techniques 

Keeping your brain healthy is as important as keeping your body fit while aging. A ‘cognitive super-ager’ is someone who is towards the end of their life but has the brain cognition of someone thirty years younger. Scientists are looking to these special seniors for additional tips on keeping your mind pristine as you get older. The main takeaways right now are that many super-agers are highly educated, consume a Mediterranean-style diet, take time for themselves and socialize with their peers. In the new year, try adopting some of these tips to up your chance of being a super-ager.

In order to live a vibrant life as we age, we must take vital steps to ensure the best for our bodies and mind. Gaining self-awareness, staying active and adopting super-aging techniques are just a few of the countless approaches you can take in 2022 to continue aging successfully.

My love Granddaughter
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01.06.22 | Sage Advice®

Health Benefits of Natural Light

For many of us, winter can be tough on our bodies, so the cold weather encourages us to shelter indoors. You’ll often hear from doctors and medical professionals the importance of Vitamin D in our lives throughout this season especially. Today, we’re highlighting the importance natural light plays in our lives and the significant benefits it can provide to us, especially during the winter: 

Improves Physical Health

There are a slew of health benefits you receive from catching some sunny rays. Spending time in natural light ups your Vitamin D level, also known as the sunshine vitamin. Appropriate levels of Vitamin D support your immune system as well as promote muscle and bone growth, as well as can help prevent depression, heart disease, and even some cancers!

Improves Productivity and Mindset

The more time you spend in the sun, the more you may notice your productivity going up. Studies have shown that there are strong links between natural light and daily productivity. Also, as mentioned earlier, natural light works to keep your mood lighter, actively working to prevent mental illnesses like Seasonal Affective Disorder and depression. All in all, natural light can truly help improve all aspects of life – whether it be mental or physical, natural light improves your general wellbeing! 

Ways to Find More Natural Light

Of course, the best way to improve your intake of natural light is by going outdoors. However, there are some adjustments you can make in your home to give yourself that sunny, natural feel. Mirrors and reflective metals can be your best friends! Things like reflective tiles, silver picture frames and glass chandeliers are going to reflect light in your home beautifully. Pair these things with a light color scheme–like white tones and light colors–in your home to maximize the amount of natural light you receive. 

At Sage Collective, we believe in the power of vibrant living. One of the best ways you can live vibrantly and boost your health this winter season is by providing yourself with as much natural light as possible.

A woman with headphones touches a green plant outdoors.
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12.30.21 | Personal Development

Resolutions for 2022

One of the best ways to set yourself up for success in a new year is by making a list of resolutions before it starts. This tradition is a powerful way to articulate your values and can hold you accountable for your goals heading into the new year. In case you’re unsure of what to add to your to-do list, here are some resolutions you can take into 2022 to continue championing a vibrant lifestyle.

Start Something You’ve Always Dreamed About

Heading into the new year, make it a priority to make an ambitious dream come true. Not only is it essential to set goals for yourself throughout the new year, but achieving them leads to significantly rewarding experiences. Whether you want to head back to school, discover a new hobby or change career paths, don’t be afraid to take initiative of your life. Fulfilling dreams helps give your life purpose, control and meaning. And, if this isn’t the year to do it, when is?

Put Your Health First

Putting your health first encompasses a variety of choices that you can make throughout the year. It’s important to remember that your body’s health consists of both physical and mental elements. So, while making sure you try to incorporate moderate, regular physical activity into your life along with a variety of nutritious foods, taking care of your mental health is just as important. And, lucky enough, sometimes specific actions will go hand in hand with helping both areas of wellness. 

Live in the Moment

If the past few years have taught us anything, it’s that we shouldn’t take anything for granted. We believe one of the most significant goals you should have in the new year is to live in the present. To do so, you must focus on the now. A few great ways to do this are by practicing mindfulness, performing meditation or simply performing random acts of kindness in your community.  

We’re thankful to keep learning from the lessons that 2021 has taught us and couldn’t be more excited to see how our resolutions will play out in the upcoming year!

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12.23.21 | Sage Advice®

Best Winter Day Trips Close to Chicago

While Chicago brings a variety of enjoyable activities to partake in during the winter, sometimes a break from all the bustle and noise of the city is welcome. For our fellow Bronzeville residents who might need a getaway this winter, here are the best day trips you can take to brighten your perspective with a change in scenery:  

Lake Geneva, Wisconsin

Only a 1-½ hour drive away sits the quaint city of Lake Geneva, Wisconsin. The beloved destination has been a top destination for Chicago residents for generations and offers a variety of fun-filled activities and stops for all ages. While the summer months are Geneva’s most popular tourist times, winter brings a much tamer atmosphere. 

For lovers of the outdoors, Geneva’s Lake Shore trail is the perfect opportunity to enjoy spectacular views in the brisk air. Once February arrives, the famous lake becomes filled with extraordinary ice sculptures, bonfires on the beach and more. While it is the coldest season, don’t miss your chance to experience the incredibly warm community.  

Lake Geneva’s impressive ice sculptures

Michigan City, Indiana

An adorable city located just off of Lake Michigan’s shores, Michigan City should be high on everyone’s list to visit this winter. The town is only one hour away from Chicago and is surrounded by one of America’s most stunning national wonders, the Indiana Dunes State and National Parks. While winter isn’t typically the time of year many choose to visit the lakeside landscape, witnessing the sand-swept mounds covered in layers of soft snow is sure to delight all visitors.  

While many enjoy a stroll on one of the many trails found in the park, the town offers guests a variety of other ventures, including shopping at the Lighthouse Place Premium Outlets, dazzling architecture at Barker Mansion and an array of wineries and breweries. 

Take a Joyride up Lake Shore Drive 

Sometimes the best day trip is just hopping in the car and taking a drive to enjoy your surroundings, which is exactly what Lake Shore Drive delivers. Arguably the prettiest extended urban parkway in the nation, the 18-mile expressway runs from Ardmore Street on its north end to 71st Street on its south end, and lucky for Bronzeville residents, the best place to start the journey is from the south.  

The ride is filled with recognizable Chicago landmarks that include the Museum of Science and Industry, Soldier Field, Navy Pier and Lincoln Park alongside spectacular views of Lake Michigan. However, once you reach the end of the trip, don’t be afraid to stop there. Exiting on N Sheffield Road will take you through several alluring suburbs filled with even more attractions and impressive architecture. 

Whether you’re taking a thrilling trip to a neighboring state or simply enjoying a joyride down a historic street, we hope this inspires you to find your new favorite winter getaway from the city! 

The stunning view of Lake Michigan from the Indiana Dunes near Michigan City, Indiana
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12.21.21 | News

A Brief History of The Chicago Bee

The promotion of Bronzeville’s rich history is something we continuously advocate for and give voice to at Sage Collective. That’s why today, we’re spreading the word about The Chicago Bee, a local paper that dominated the press for decades while distinguishing itself by its promotion of Black history.

History

The Chicago Bee, often referred to as Chicago Sunday Bee, was founded by Anthony Overton in 1925. Overton was a successful banker and manufacturer, and the first African American to lead a major conglomerate (Overton Hygienic Company, which was a cosmetics business). After its founding, the Bee moved into the now-famous Art Deco building located at 3647-55 S. State St., which is now on the U.S. National Register of Historic Places and recognized as a Chicago Landmark. 

The Bee’s staff included many esteemed members of Chicago’s community of writers and journalists at the time. Chandler Owen, a talented writer, became editor of the Bee after moving to Chicago in the 1920s and worked with other savvy editors including Ida B. Wells and Olive Diggs. During the World War II years, when men were in active military duty, the majority of the writing staff were women, which allowed them unprecedented autonomy and opportunity for advancement. 

The Bee covered a wide range of issues of the day. It was the first newspaper to support the efforts of the Brotherhood of Sleeping Car Porters, the nation’s first all-Black labor union created during conflicts at The Pullman Company. It also supported and covered the Black women’s club movement, and gained distinction from other newspapers in the Chicago press in their publicity of Black history and literature.  

Following Overton’s passing in 1946, the Bee was briefly run by his two sons but ceased operation in 1947. Even though very little of the historic newspaper has survived today, it is still recognized as one of the most influential and acclaimed papers of the 20th century. 

Through Sage Collective’s vision, we are proud to contribute to the legacy of African American culture, community and success that is, and always has been, the heart and soul of Bronzeville.

The Chicago Bee front page from May 4, 1941
The Chicago Bee Building
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12.14.21 | Healthy Eating

Deliciously Healthy Winter Dishes For Any Gatherings

When winter comes around, no matter where you end up, it’s not difficult to find the sweet treats and savory meals that are traditionally associated with the season. However, for those inspired to maintain or start conscious eating habits, the winter can be a difficult time filled with temptation. Today, inspired by our vibrant living principles, we’re sharing a few deliciously healthy winter dishes that anyone can enjoy this winter. 

Sweet Potatoes

A favorite during this time of year, sweet potatoes are hard not to enjoy. While most people enjoy sweet potatoes even sweeter, baked with brown sugar and marshmallows, there are various methods to cook the vegetables that are just as enjoyable but much healthier. Like a standard potato, sweet potatoes can be served in a variety of ways. Baking them whole, mashing them, and even dicing them in a salad proves how versatile the vegetables can be. No matter how you cook them, we promise they won’t lose the sweetness that makes them so delectable in the first place. 

Winter Crudités

Who doesn’t love a mix of fresh vegetables? Crudités make the perfect winter dish for that reason. Not only can the appetizer appeal to virtually anyone, but it comes with a plethora of highly vitamin-packed vegetables that you can personally pick and choose. If you want to put a twist on the classic appetizer, make your own tasty dip to pair with the refreshing produce. 

Festive Fruit Salad

While it might seem out of season, a festive and healthy fruit salad is sure to excite taste buds in the winter. Similar to the crudités, not only is this dish healthy, but you can bring it and eat it anywhere and anytime. The nourishing food makes a perfect option for a morning snack or a late-night dessert. Along with the fruit, don’t be afraid to add in extra ingredients that bring even more flavor to the salad like mint, basil, lavender or even cayenne pepper for a little heat. 

Seasonal Squash

Another versatile food, squash is the perfect vegetable to substitute in and out of almost every traditional meal. Typically harvested in the fall, the nutrient-packed acorn squash, sugar pumpkins, spaghetti squash and butternut squash are available for cooking your favorite dishes year-round. Some seasonal favorites include butternut squash mac and cheese, soup and casserole, stuffed acorn squash and roasted spaghetti squash with kale. 

Even with the sweet temptations that surround us throughout the holiday season, healthy options are never too far out of reach. Whether you’re serving food at home for yourself or preparing a dish to bring to a gathering, there are various methods we can each take to continue practicing conscious eating habits and living vibrantly.

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