Deborah Bayliss, The Shreveport Times Journalist Profile

Articles

Community mourns the passing of George Manning

2 months ago | austinweeklynews.com | Deborah Bayliss

George E. Manning II, retired administrator for the University of Illinois Chicago Psychiatric Institute and longtime Austin resident with a passion for music and mentorship, died Jan. 13, leaving behind the extraordinary life he crafted and led in and outside the U.S.A classically trained musician, Manning was especially known for the elaborate parties he hosted over the years at his grand Midway Park mansion with its own ballroom.
How to celebrate Christmas, New Year’s and Kwanzaa on the West Side - Austin Weekly News

Dec 23, 2024 | austinweeklynews.com | Deborah Bayliss |Brooke Duncan

As the holiday season continues, there’s no shortage of festive events to enjoy in the community and beyond. Whether you’re looking for lively holiday parties, meaningful worship services, or seasonal attractions, there’s something for everyone. A Chosen Few DJs Holiday Party Saturday, Dec. 21, 4 p.m. – 12 a.m. Join the legendary A Chosen Few DJs at Vu Rooftop for an unforgettable holiday bash. Dance the night away while enjoying stunning views of the city.
Bethel New Life’s mental health discussion focuses on Black men - Austin Weekly News

Dec 18, 2024 | austinweeklynews.com | Deborah Bayliss

According to the Chicago Data Portal, Austin leads all community areas with the highest number of homicides in 2024. Along with the highest use of opioids and overdoses, these factors contribute to chronic stress, complex trauma and pervasive anxiety within the community. Data also shows that individuals in marginalized communities are disproportionately affected by mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety, and PTSD. All of this is exacerbated during the holidays.
Where to find food and toy giveaways for Christmas

Dec 17, 2024 | austinweeklynews.com | Deborah Bayliss

With so many families struggling to make ends meet, providing toys for Christmas may not be possible for them. Realizing that, community stakeholders are stepping up and hosting toy giveaways as a way to help ensure that every child has an opportunity to have toys and other items for Christmas. Sunrise Community Empowerment Church, 1454 S. Kolin, will hold its Annual Christmas Toy Giveaway from 11 a.m to 1 p.m., Dec. 21 while supplies last. Toys will be given to youth ages two to 14.
Austin Chamber of Commerce hosts Christmas parade and tree lighting

Dec 5, 2024 | austinweeklynews.com | Deborah Bayliss

The Austin Chamber of Commerce hosts its 20th Annual Christmas Tree Lighting and Parade Friday. The parade steps off at 5 p.m. from Madison Street and Laramie Avenue, and will head west on Madison with floats, bands, cars carrying local politicians and other parade participants. It will end at the 15th District Police Station at 5701 W. Madison St. The tree lighting is scheduled for 6 pm.
Local nonprofit holds free Thanksgiving feast for those in need

Nov 22, 2024 | austinweeklynews.com | Deborah Bayliss

With 200 or more people expected to show up for her Second Annual Thanksgiving Feed the Community event Saturday, Glam Chicago Executive Director LaTasha Henry and her team of volunteers and donors said they are ready to serve. “I expect a large turnout,” Henry told the Austin Weekly News. “We’re looking to serve a minimum of 200 people. We’ve already prepared ourselves that if we run out of food, we won’t leave anyone hungry.
A faith-based trade school opens in Forest Park - Forest Park Review

Oct 22, 2024 | forestparkreview.com | Deborah Bayliss

Not all jobs require a college education. With that in mind, Dr. Bill Winston, founder and senior pastor of Living Word Christian Center in Forest Park, has opened a faith-based vocational education training center. “Someone recently shared with me that in the near future, 80% of new jobs won’t require a four-year college degree,” Winston said of his reasons for opening Eden Career Institute (ECI).
Soup and Bread West fundraiser proceeds benefit Forest Park library

Sep 10, 2024 | forestparkreview.com | Deborah Bayliss

Individuals in need often take refuge in their local library – which is why the Forest Park Library staff is sending thanks to those who hosted and gathered for the August Soup and Bread West Fundraiser that benefited the library’s community outreach efforts. Vicki Rakowski, director of the Forest Park Library, spoke excitedly about the $900 the library received from the fundraiser; the money will support the Forest Park Cares Fund.
African American beekeeper talks about the fascinating life of bees

Sep 6, 2024 | austinweeklynews.com | Deborah Bayliss

“All bees matter!” Those are the words of African American beekeeper Thad Smith, founder and owner of Westside Bee Boyz LLC, a prolific bee and honey-based product business with apiaries operating in North Lawndale and other parts of the city. But how exactly did beekeeping pique his interest? “Long story short, I was homeless and did some things and had to do some time,” Smith explained.
Austin peace ride planned for Sept. 7 - Austin Weekly News

Aug 30, 2024 | austinweeklynews.com | Deborah Bayliss

Attention bicyclists: get on your wheels and join BUILD Inc.’s peace ride in Austin on Sept. 7. The event, which will get underway at 10 a.m. (with the ride starting at 11 a.m.), is expected to draw more than 100 participants. Advanced registration is encouraged. “The purpose of the ride is to promote peace in the community and to provide something fun, positive and safe for the community,” said Martin Anguiano, BUILD’s director of community engagement.