Deborah Bayliss, The Shreveport Times Journalist Profile

Articles

Theatre Y takes you to

3 weeks ago | austinweeklynews.com | Deborah Bayliss

The talented folks at North Lawndale’s Theatre Y invite everyone to come out and experience Obie Award-winning playwright Richard Maxwell’s, The End of Reality. The play showcases a ragtag crew of security guards wavering between vigilance and distractions of on-the-job chatter as they protect a building from an imminent threat. In an interview with Jesse Green of the New York Times, Maxwell said the play’s focus on the banality of violence grew out of his despair with George W.
Galewood community’s latest focus is tree planting - Austin Weekly News

3 weeks ago | austinweeklynews.com | Deborah Bayliss

With the help of some grant money, Galewood Neighbors is focusing some extra attention these days on tree planting, just one more way to promote a healthier environment in the West Side community. “The benefits of trees are endless,” said Sarah Cunningham, vice chairperson of the Galewood Neighbors, a group of about 300 neighbors, businesses, board members and businesses that works for the betterment of the community.
Local woman raising funds to take Austin youth to Africa

2 months ago | austinweeklynews.com | Deborah Bayliss

Zenaida Owusu-Young, 17, looks forward to connecting with her Ghanaian heritage by way of a trip to Africa that was made possible by Crystal Dyer, a board member of the Austin Chamber of Commerce. “This is an opportunity to connect with my Ghanaian heritage,” Zenaida said. “I’m also looking forward to enjoying the food.
Community mourns the passing of George Manning

Jan 27, 2025 | 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).