It’s no secret that President’s Obama’s bid for re-election will be a very tight race. He’s managed to weather rocky storms such as the stalled economy, his foreign policy agenda and most recently announcing his support for same-sex marriages.

Throughout your secondary education, there are a plethora of duties to complete. Academics, organizations, internships, work, friends, flings and hook-ups cram into the best four years of your life. It’s hard to maintain a healthy balance without shedding a few tears, feeling the earth beneath your feet is about to collapse and skipping class because you’re simply too weary.

Nutritionist Karen Coruthers made a name for herself in the food industry, and now she is conquering books and community development. She made her literary debut with, “Karen’s Exquisite Cuisine Cook Book,” which details a variety of seafood, vegetarian and healthy recipes. Karen discusses the value of being knowledgeable about ingredients and understanding how to be in control of your diet. Karen is looking to expand ways to encourage families to develop good eating habits that will lead to a prosperous lifestyle.

For decades Planned Parenthood has been a savior in communities, providing low-cost health care, birth control and gynecological advice to women. It has broken down barriers and acted as a leader in the female sexual revolution. Founded in 1916 in Brooklyn by women's rights leader Margaret Sanger, there are now centers and affiliates spanning across the United States. According to Planned Parenthood.com, "Our 83 unique, locally governed affiliates nationwide operate more than 800 health centers, which reflect the diverse needs of their communities."

As a 19-year-old student, last summer consisted of spending over $60 a week on gas and praying that God would somehow touch my bank account. As an intern for former Ald. Toni Preckwinkle, now Cook County board president, I scraped for cash. I quit my dead-beat job at the end of July at Wal-Mart, because I wanted to take advantage of this grand opportunity. I knew my journey at Wal-Mart was coming to an end. I wanted to learn the ropes of political campaigns and community organizing. I can honestly say the experience was beyond amazing. Working in the political field opened my eyes to possible career opportunities, different lifestyles and sharpened my leadership skills.

As a 19-year-old student, last summer consisted of spending over $60 a week on gas and praying that God would somehow touch my bank account. As an intern for former Ald. Toni Preckwinkle, now Cook County board president, I scraped for cash. I quit my dead-beat job at the end of July at Wal-Mart, because I wanted to take advantage of this grand opportunity. I knew my journey at Wal-Mart was coming to an end. I wanted to learn the ropes of political campaigns and community organizing. I can honestly say the experience was beyond amazing. Working in the political field opened my eyes to possible career opportunities, different lifestyles and sharpened my leadership skills.  

The 2010 election cycle in Chicago was dominated by women. Men are no longer running the show in Illinois politics. African American women around the state are pushing for their spots as pillars in the community. Toni Preckwinkle, Robin Kelly and Toi Hutchinson are three black women who are taking steps to build up Illinois communities, restore integrity and pave the way for future leaders.

Pink satin and yellow fabrics drape out of a wooden trunk. Colorful beads adorn tables for miles and a spirit of great perseverance fills the brown painted and cluttered room. This is not an art store or a craft class for children but a sanctuary of a true and dedicated artist.

Monalisa Brown walks though the doors in a gray dress that blends beautifully with her chocolate skin. Her shoulder length black hair frames her face and her eyes give you a soothing comfort—a different feeling than the one she gave to the housemates on VH1’s “Flavor of Love 3.”

Tousled hair in a messy ponytail. Black or pink corsets that hugged my ribcage to death, barely covering my chest. Short rayon black skirts with chains and ripped black, pink or red fishnets exposing my knobby knees. No, this is not stripper wear—it was my daily attire in high school.