NerdsToGo Chicago Downtown Wins Franchise Business Review Rockstar Award

The Chicago Journal Staff on August 7, 2025

By: NerdsToGo Chicago Downtown

CHICAGO, IL – NerdsToGo Chicago Downtown, a leading provider of technology solutions for small businesses and residential customers, has been honored with the prestigious Franchise Business Review (FBR) Rockstar Award. This national recognition highlights top-performing franchise locations across the country, based on independent franchisee satisfaction, operational excellence, and consistent market impact.

Located in the heart of Chicago’s iconic Magnificent Mile, NerdsToGo Chicago Downtown is owned and operated by Paul Ongioni, a local entrepreneur whose leadership, vision, and dedication to exceptional customer service have made the location a standout not only in Illinois but within the entire NerdsToGo network. Since its inception, the location has rapidly become known for its personalized tech support, fast response times, and its ability to solve complex IT challenges for both residential and business clients.

“Receiving this award is a true honor and a testament to our dedicated team and loyal clients,” said Paul Ongioni, Owner of NerdsToGo Chicago Downtown. “It validates our mission to deliver outstanding tech support that’s not only fast and reliable but deeply rooted in trust and community service. We’re excited to keep raising the bar while deepening our engagement in the local Chicago area.”

The FBR Rockstar Award is based on direct and confidential feedback from franchise owners across a range of categories including customer satisfaction, franchise support, local community involvement, and revenue performance. NerdsToGo Chicago Downtown excelled in each of these areas, earning high scores for its innovation, growth, and client relationships.

This recognition not only celebrates the outstanding work of the Chicago Downtown team but also reinforces the NerdsToGo brand’s position as a leader in the tech services industry. The award further enhances the franchise’s credibility and strengthens customer confidence, especially among businesses seeking a trusted IT partner to support their daily operations and long-term goals.

As a forward-thinking IT service provider, NerdsToGo Chicago Downtown is also helping clients embrace emerging technologies. From deploying AI-powered business tools to implementing secure cloud solutions and offering proactive cybersecurity services, the team is committed to helping small businesses and households stay protected, efficient, and competitive in an increasingly digital world.

In recent months, the Chicago Downtown location has expanded its services to include IT consulting, network security audits, data recovery, and smart home installations, further cementing its role as a full-service technology partner. The team continues to innovate while maintaining its signature white-glove customer experience.

“While we celebrate nationally, it’s the local impact that matters most,” said Bill Daragan, Owner and CEO at Techy. “We’re proud to highlight Paul’s leadership and the exceptional work being done in Chicago. This is exactly the kind of success story we want to amplify across our brand.”

In the coming weeks, local media outreach will highlight the franchise’s contributions to small business development, tech education initiatives, and its growing partnerships with nonprofits and community organizations throughout the region.

About NerdsToGo

NerdsToGo, a Techy-owned company, provides fast, reliable, and white-glove on-site and remote tech support for small businesses and residential customers. NerdsToGo is committed to solving IT problems, empowering businesses, and helping customers stay connected in a rapidly evolving digital world.

Media Contact:

Paul Ongioni

NerdsToGo Chicago Downtown

📧 paul.ongioni@nerdstogo.com

🌐 www.nerdstogo.com/chicago-mag-mile

Adam Rumanek Knows What’s Coming Next for YouTube, And It Starts with AI Video Creation and YouTube Kids

The Chicago Journal Staff on August 7, 2025

Imagine a digital world where creators get paid, content stays protected, and algorithms aren’t the only ones making decisions.

Adam Rumanek, Founder of Aux Mode, is an entrepreneur, author, and internet programmer who saw the potential viral content held long before YouTube became the global phenomenon it is today. His company provides multiple services, including content protection, YouTube channel management, content revenue maximization, content licensing, and geo-blocking services to restrict content by region. Additionally, it offers third-party claim mediation to help resolve copyright and ownership disputes, among others.

Adam had predicted what would happen when content creation takes over. The copyright issues… the monetization sabotage… everything that Aux Mode provides a solution for.

Aux Mode enables content owners to generate real income from their videos. For Adam, it isn’t just about uploading clips anymore. It’s about global rights, protecting IP, optimizing metadata, and watching the numbers roll in. But if you ask him where the biggest and most significant change is happening now, he won’t start with the usual topics. He’ll point straight to AI video creation and YouTube Kids.

According to Adam, YouTube is turning into a primary source of content for kids, and now, with AI video creation, the shift is huge. And fast. And, if we are being completely honest, unsafe.

Parents are used to handing over the iPad. However, behind the scenes, a growing market of creators is using artificial intelligence to create stories, songs, and animations. The voices aren’t real. The drawings are machine-generated. The scripts are machine-learned. It’s efficient, cheap, and endless.

For companies trying to make money or protect their IP, this changes everything.

Aux Mode is already knee-deep in it. They’re not just managing YouTube channels. They’re protecting copyright, providing creators with stress-free zones to focus on creating while handling the other complexities.

With Aux Mode, every second of video is scanned, matched, and sorted by digital fingerprints. It’s easy to block a region. It is even easier to monetize AI-generated animations in 27 countries. Do you, as a creator, want to avoid copyright strikes because your AI narrator sounded a little too close to Morgan Freeman? Aux Mode has a plan.

It sounds complex. But that’s the point. It is complex.

That’s why Aux Mode exists.

Rumanek built the company with that complexity in mind. And while others might panic at the thought of thousands of machine-made cartoons flooding YouTube Kids, he sees it as an opportunity. But only if it’s done responsibly.

Aux Mode’s free calculators help creators understand revenue. Their CMS audits tighten up metadata. Their geo-blocking options make sure content stays where it’s meant to be. They’re even using machine learning to simplify monthly reporting. It’s tech built for creators and studios who want to keep track while going viral.

Because the future is about building a steady stream of content that works everywhere. While one-hit wonders seem appealing and workable, a constant stream of income is what keeps content creation going. And now, with AI writing bedtime stories and educational videos, there’s more potential than ever…and more risk.

AI doesn’t care about copyright. It pulls from the internet like a sponge. So if your content gets mimicked, you’d better have protection in place. Aux Mode makes sure that if someone copies your story, you’ll know. If someone re-uploads your animation in another language, you’ll be ready. If someone tries to make money off your song, you’ll see it coming.

That’s what Rumanek calls being proactive.

Aux Mode has been a certified YouTube service provider for over a decade, helping producers, educators, brands, and musicians think like digital strategists. For Rumanek, the next frontier is clearly kids’ content.

So, while the rest of the internet marvels at what AI can do, Adam Rumanek is asking better questions. Who owns the result? Who gets paid? Who protects the creator when a machine copies their work? And how do we keep kids’ content both smart and safe?

The answers aren’t simple, but it is safe to say: make content creation smarter, fairer, and more profitable for the people behind it.

Conclusion

Aux Mode is preparing for the upcoming surge in AI content, which can easily turn into chaos if not managed properly. So, when YouTube changes, creators need someone who has already seen it coming.

With Adam Rumanek and Aux Mode, creators have found their holy grail; they have found the perfect match for their channels and the ideal tour guide for this terrain.

Buildstone Collective Helps Builders Stay Ahead of the Slow Season

The Chicago Journal Staff on August 6, 2025

By: Jonas Whitaker

The builders who survive the slow season don’t wait for it. They prepare for it.

When the Phones Go Quiet, Builders Are Caught Off Guard

The slowdown doesn’t send a calendar invite. One week, you’re juggling back-to-back site visits, and the next, your inbox is dry, with the phones stopping abruptly. At first, it just seems like a lull. But soon enough, you check the calendar and realize the upcoming quarter looks light. No new jobs lined up, no warm leads — just gaps.

It’s a cycle custom home builders know too well: feast or famine. You’re overbooked one season, then scrambling the next.

The Real Cause of Builder Burnout Isn’t Always the Weather

Some of the slowdown can be attributed to the seasons — colder months, frozen ground, and families pausing plans. However, that’s not the entire picture. For many builders, the real challenge isn’t the weather. It’s the lack of a structured system.

Most builders still rely heavily on referrals, realtors, or the occasional web inquiry. When those dry up, there’s nothing to replace them. There’s no predictability, no proactive strategy — just a lot of waiting and hoping something materializes.

That’s when the real stress sets in — not when the work slows, but when you realize you don’t have a clear strategy to restart it.

Why Builders Need a System — Not Another Ad Agency

Maybe you’ve tried hiring a lead generation company. Maybe you’ve run some ads. Perhaps you’ve dabbled in SEO. But most builders don’t want vanity metrics or vague promises. They want real conversations with potential clients. They need jobs, not just leads.

That’s where Buildstone Collective comes in. Founded by Zach Rogers — a former construction worker who witnessed firsthand what happens when the pipeline runs dry — the company was established to offer builders more than just leads. It aims to provide control.

Buildstone Collective Helps Builders Stay Ahead of the Slow Season

Photo: Unsplash.com

Buildstone Collective Was Built for Off-Season Survival

Zach started in the trades, watching business owners panic every winter when projects slowed. They didn’t need more surface-level solutions. They needed a reliable method to attract, qualify, and book clients year-round. That hands-on frustration became the foundation for what would later become Buildstone Collective — a performance-driven system created specifically for custom home builders.

The system challenges the conventional approach. Instead of sending ads into the ether and hoping something sticks, it starts with positioning. Who are you trying to reach? What makes your work unique? What’s the right budget, timeline, and location? Once that foundation is in place, the system develops tailored local campaigns — paired with a filtering process that screens out low-quality inquiries before they even hit your calendar.

A Built-In Team That Does the Follow-Up for You

One of the most effective aspects of Buildstone’s system is what happens after someone fills out a form. A trained in-house team follows up promptly. They handle the initial touchpoints, gather context, and only pass along serious prospects. No more chasing cold leads. No more explaining your process to someone who’s “just curious.” You show up to qualified calls — with context already in hand.

This isn’t just about keeping you busy. It’s about giving you back control over your time and schedule.

The Ideal Time to Prepare Is Before It Slows Down

Buildstone Collective was designed with the slow season in mind. It performs particularly well during the quieter months — when many builders are cutting hours, chasing unclear leads, or lowering prices to keep their teams busy. Instead, Buildstone clients use that time to stay sharp. They qualify harder, focus on better-fit projects, and enter spring with momentum — already booked and moving.

That kind of consistency doesn’t just reduce stress — it helps make your business more stable. You’re no longer swinging between droughts and overloads. You’re pacing your pipeline more predictably.

The Builders Who Succeed Are the Ones Who Prepare

Everyone knows the slow season is coming. The difference lies in how you handle it.

Some wait it out. Others build a system that keeps the wheels turning — even when the weather and market conditions seem unfavorable.

If you’re tired of wondering where the next job will come from, Buildstone Collective provides an approach that respects your time, aligns with how builders operate, and fosters long-term stability without compromising on quality.

To learn more about Buildstone Collective’s demand system for custom home builders, visit buildstonecollective.com.

Optimize Executive Performance with Peak Health’s Strategies

The Chicago Journal Staff on August 6, 2025

By: Huey Lee

In high‑pressure leadership roles, performance isn’t just about skill or strategy — it’s about sustaining clarity, energy, and resilience over the long term. That’s why a growing number of leaders are seeking out regenerative‑inspired wellness programs that focus on optimizing the body’s natural systems for better daily function.

“Our work isn’t about treating illness,” says Dr. Del Rio. “It’s about supporting people who want to function at their best — physically, mentally, and emotionally.”

From Sick‑Care to Performance‑Care

Most traditional healthcare systems are reactive: they address problems once they appear. Peak Health flips the model, focusing instead on performance‑care — the intentional support of the body’s natural processes before challenges arise.

The Peak Health philosophy blends wellness assessments, personalized recovery protocols, and targeted support strategies to help clients manage the demands of leadership without burning out.

“Executives often run their bodies like they run their companies — at full capacity, with no scheduled downtime,” says Dr. Del Rio. “We create space and structure for recovery so they can keep performing without crashing.”

What “Regenerative‑Inspired” Really Means

Optimize Executive Performance with Peak Health’s Strategies

Photo Courtesy: Peak Health / Dr. Luis Del Rio

The term “regenerative” often gets associated with advanced medical treatments. Still, at Peak Health, it refers to wellness approaches inspired by the science of repair and recovery — without making medical or therapeutic claims.

These approaches may include:

Nutrient‑rich hydration and supplementation to support overall wellness.
Recovery routines that encourage rest and reset for both body and mind.
Mobility and movement coaching to maintain function and reduce physical strain.
Lifestyle strategies designed to support healthy sleep, energy management, and focus.

The goal is to help clients feel balanced and resilient, even when their schedules are demanding and travel is frequent.

The Peak Health Client Experience

Dr. Del Rio’s clients — from CEOs to creative leaders — often start with a comprehensive wellness mapping session. This is not a medical diagnosis, but a deep dive into lifestyle patterns, energy rhythms, and recovery habits.

From there, the Peak Health team designs a custom wellness protocol that may include:

Concierge sessions delivered at the client’s home, office, or while traveling.
Nutrition and hydration support.
Recovery and stress‑adaptation techniques.
Structured rest strategies before and after peak performance periods, such as product launches, major presentations, or travel.

By keeping services flexible and discreet, Peak Health ensures that wellness fits into — rather than disrupts — the client’s lifestyle.

A Wellness Partner, Not Just a Service

One of the most common reasons executives work with Peak Health is the desire for personalized partnership. Rather than handing over a standard plan, Dr. Del Rio acts as an ongoing advisor, adjusting protocols based on the client’s schedule and feedback.

“We’re not here to tell people to slow down,” he says. “We’re here to help them keep their pace — without losing clarity or energy.”

This adaptability makes Peak Health different from one‑size‑fits‑all wellness programs or static retreat experiences.

Why Leaders Are Paying Attention

Emerging wellness trends show that leaders are increasingly viewing physical and mental stamina as core business assets. Instead of leaving performance to chance, they’re integrating structured wellness into their leadership strategy.

Some of the most common benefits Peak Health clients report include:

Feeling more in control of their energy throughout the day.
Experiencing improved focus during high‑stakes meetings.
Finding it easier to maintain healthy routines while traveling.

While experiences vary, the consistent theme is greater balance in demanding environments.

The Role of Data and Feedback

While Peak Health’s approach is not medical, it still incorporates data‑driven feedback loops to fine‑tune protocols. This may involve:

Tracking rest patterns and recovery cycles.
Monitoring hydration and nutrition habits.
Logging stress levels before and after key work events.

This feedback helps clients understand which wellness strategies work best for them, and it allows Dr. Del Rio to refine each program for maximum effectiveness.

Confidentiality and Discretion

For many high‑profile clients, privacy is a priority. Peak Health offers confidential, on‑location sessions and keeps all client information strictly private. This discretion allows executives to focus on their wellness without concern about public visibility.

“Leaders have enough on their plates,” says Dr. Del Rio. “They need a partner who protects their time and their privacy.”

Supporting Performance Through Transition Periods

Leadership often involves periods of intense change — mergers, launches, expansions — that demand long hours and constant decision‑making. These are the moments when wellness can have the greatest impact.

Peak Health works with clients to plan ahead for these high‑demand windows, building recovery and resilience strategies into their schedules so they can perform without burning out.

The Bigger Picture: Wellness as a Long‑Term Strategy

While Peak Health works with many leaders during pivotal moments, Dr. Del Rio emphasizes that regenerative‑inspired wellness is most effective when it’s ongoing, not just situational.

“When you treat wellness as an afterthought, you’re always playing catch‑up,” he says. “When you treat it as part of your leadership strategy, you’re always a step ahead.”

This long‑term view is a central theme in The Science of Peak Health, where Dr. Del Rio shares insights from his years of working with high‑performing leaders on how consistent, intentional wellness strategies create sustainable success.

Looking Ahead

As the conversation around executive health evolves, services like Peak Health are likely to play a bigger role in how leaders approach their careers. The demand for personalized, on‑demand wellness support is growing — not as a luxury, but as a practical tool for sustaining performance in high‑pressure environments.

For Dr. Luis Del Rio, the mission remains clear: to help leaders stay sharp, steady, and energized, no matter how demanding their path becomes.

“Leadership is a marathon made of sprints,” he says. “Our role is to make sure every sprint is strong — and every recovery sets you up for the next one.”

Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for informational purposes only and should not be construed as medical advice or a substitute for professional healthcare. Dr. Luis Del Rio’s Peak Health program focuses on optimizing wellness through lifestyle strategies and recovery techniques, and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any medical conditions. Results may vary for each individual, and the information provided should be used in conjunction with advice from qualified healthcare providers. Always consult with a medical professional before starting any new wellness or health program.

How One Story Is Changing Youth Fiction’s Definitions of Disability, Friendship, and Courage

The Chicago Journal Staff on August 5, 2025

By: Elowen Gray

Cultural understanding has historically been shaped by fiction, particularly for young readers negotiating identity, change, and obstacles. Author Beth Watter (real name Elisabeth Ellen Watter) writes the poignant, character-driven book Champions, We Are, which centers a coming-of-age story around disability, resiliency, and emotional development.

The genuine yet unprejudiced depiction of a young child with cerebral palsy whose dreams are as big—and competitive—as those of any peer without cerebral palsy is what distinguishes this book. Watter offers a different perspective on friendships, overcoming adversity, and the potential of youth through insightful narrative and personal experience.

In What Ways Do Champions Uniquely Present Disability?

In contrast to numerous stories that depict disability as a constraint or a mere backdrop, Champions, We Are portrays Nik—a middle school boy—as a richly developed character. He is determined, clever, and motivated, with an objective that seems both familiar and significant: to triumph in a race and secure a gold trophy. The novel neither diminishes Nik to his cerebral palsy nor overlooks the physical, emotional, and social obstacles he encounters. Instead, it engages readers in his everyday experiences, letting his character, choices, and viewpoint propel the narrative. The outcome is a depiction of disability based on empowerment instead of sympathy. Nik’s friendship with his best friend Josh adds another dimension: how able-bodied peers can sometimes misinterpret or neglect the complete humanity of their disabled friends—not out of ill intent, but rather ignorance. Observing Josh transform into a more empathetic and self-aware friend is one of the main emotional storylines.

What Importance Do Friendships Have in the Novel’s Theme

Essentially, Champions, We Are centers around the themes of shared support and education. As Nik aids Josh in understanding the value of empathy and inclusion, Josh likewise assists Nik in managing feelings of frustration, doubt, and self-assurance. Their developing friendship is not flawless or excessively dramatized, contributing to the book’s genuineness. Another important character, Matt—a once-prominent high school football player learning to navigate life in a wheelchair due to an injury—broadens the story’s exploration of how individuals adapt to altered situations. His engagement in the Special Olympics and his revived bond with his grandfather contribute themes of recovery and intergenerational connections to the novel’s essence. Collectively, these relationships illustrate that being a “champion” goes beyond mere physical accomplishment. It focuses on self-improvement, resilience, and supporting others throughout the journey.

How One Story Is Changing Youth Fiction’s Definitions of Disability, Friendship, and Courage

Photo Courtesy: Beth Watter

In What Ways Does the Novel Promote Wider Cultural Discussions?

While targeted at young adolescents and families, Champions, We Are addresses broader themes of visibility, representation, and fairness. By featuring a disabled main character at the heart of a challenging and heartfelt adventure, Watter paves the way for enhanced inclusion in children’s literature—a category where disability remains insufficiently portrayed. The book subtly examines systems that complicate life for children with disabilities: unwelcoming sports activities, implicit social barriers, and adults’ minimal expectations. Through Nik’s successes—both on and off the track—the novel inspires young readers and educators to reconsider the definition of potential. Most crucially, it portrays disabled characters not as mere sidekicks or symbols but as intricate individuals possessing agency, ambition, and humor.

How Does the Author’s Background Influence the Story?

Beth Watter draws heavily from personal experience. Her youngest son, Nik, was born with a heart defect and later diagnosed with cerebral palsy. After helping him through surgeries, scouting achievements, and school life, Watter began writing to share their story—and to inspire others facing similar challenges.

This lived authenticity is evident in the book’s dialogue, family dynamics, and emotional depth. The story reads not as fiction for fiction’s sake but as a call to recognize the beauty and complexity of lives that are often overlooked.

Her goal, she writes, was “to champion the disabled, the kindhearted, and the determined.” With Champions, We Are, she succeeds in doing just that.

What Does the Book Indicate About the Meaning of Being a Champion?

While Nik and Josh did a school skit titled “Champions, We Are,” the novel skillfully reflects this theme in its organization. Whether it’s competing on a hand-powered bicycle, mentoring at the Special Olympics, or assisting a friend in gaining self-assurance, every character reshapes the concept of “winning.” The novel implies that awards don’t measure triumph—it’s rooted in perseverance, understanding, and the bravery to continue participating. By doing this, Watter presents young readers with a concept of heroism that seems both achievable and profoundly essential. Champions, We Are is more than a heartwarming story—it’s an essential one. As discussions about inclusivity in media expand, Watter’s first work emerges as a significant addition to the literature that acknowledges, celebrates, and elevates all types of champions.

Her Nonverbal Notes: A Silent Symphony

The Chicago Journal Staff on August 1, 2025

By: Chenyang Nie

In a quiet Los Angeles gallery on La Cienega Boulevard, an intimate exhibition invites viewers not just to see—but to feel. Curated by Chenyang Nie and presented by the nonprofit Artistry Edge, the group exhibition Her Nonverbal Notes offers a delicate exploration of female inner worlds, expressed through their distinct approaches.

The show features four exceptional women artists—Minmin Liang, Sue Shu, Xinyi Yang, and Yifei Wang—whose works unfold like handwritten entries in deeply personal journals. There are no grand declarations or loud statements. Instead, this exhibition subtly communicates. It speaks in metaphors, motifs, and material experiments, allowing viewers to absorb the works slowly, as one might read a friend’s secret letter.

The premise of Her Nonverbal Notes is both emotional and sensorial: to witness how women express their personal trajectories and imagination without relying on direct language. The works evoke introspection and vulnerability, offering the audience glimpses of dreams, soft memories, subtle humor, and fleeting moments of connection. Each piece is a tactile extension of its maker—woven, etched, or drawn from the inner folds of experience. The result is a gentle, almost meditative atmosphere that invites stillness and reflection.

Photo Courtesy: Verso Studio

Minmin Liang: Memory in Motif

Minmin Liang, a bilingual illustrator known for her story-driven approach, brings to the exhibition a gentle tribute to childhood wonder and life’s gentle absurdities. In Weaving: A Fragment of Memory, she reconstructs an afternoon through the evocative symbols of mahjong tiles, music, and a lounging cat—relics of comfort and cultural resonance.

Photo Courtesy: Verso Studio

Sue Shu: Nature Against the Man-Made

Shu, a Macomber Travel Award recipient and CalArts BFA graduate now pursuing her MFA at USC, continues to experiment with process-based forms. Her work reads like an ecological confession—one that doesn’t shout, but quietly pulses beneath the surface.

Xinyi Yang: Architecture of Emotion

New York-based illustrator Xinyi Yang infuses her works with a cinematic tenderness. Her celebrated piece Museum of the Big Apple, printed in rich Risograph hues, transforms the city’s iconic art institutions into an animated dollhouse. Each room reveals a story—a memory, an artifact, a figure from the city’s vibrant art scene.

Yang’s influences—ranging from 19th-century architecture to decorative arts—breathe through her soft, atmospheric compositions. Her accolades include honors from American Illustration, the Society of Illustrators, and iJungle Illustration Awards. Yet it’s her emotional restraint and poetic eye that truly distinguish her work. In Her Nonverbal Notes, her pieces feel like reveries—half-remembered, wholly felt.

Yifei Wang: Observing the Unseen

Yifei Wang’s charcoal and ink works bring a moody, contemplative counterpoint to the show. In Night Trees, Wang transforms ordinary oaks into looming, almost sentient beings. Drawing from Gothic architecture and fantastical imagery, their work merges the real with the surreal, asking: What do we see when we truly observe?

Wang’s approach is a balance between observation and invention. Their linework is expressive yet spare, filled with gaps that the viewer’s imagination is invited to complete. In a show built on nuance, their drawings stand out in their quiet power.

What connects all these works is not style or even subject—it’s intention. Each artist in Her Nonverbal Notes offers a piece of herself: not polished declarations, but private, vulnerable moments that resist being commodified. These are not loud works, but they linger with you. Like notes passed between friends, they carry warmth, introspection, and a certain ineffable knowing. The curator sought to create a space for quiet emotionality—a rare feat in an art world often obsessed with spectacle. With Artistry Edge, a nonprofit dedicated to nurturing emerging talent, Chenyang Nie uplifts voices that are often overlooked, especially among women in the early stages of their careers.

In an era where so much of our communication is immediate and performative, Her Nonverbal Notes reminds us of the value of what’s unspoken. These works encourage slowness, observation, and feeling. They are not explanations—they are experiences. For women who see fragments of themselves in these delicate articulations, and for those learning to listen more deeply, this exhibition provides a space to breathe, to reflect, and perhaps, to be silently understood.

Special Thanks to: Private Beach Studio, Photos by Verso Studio.

Albin Kaelin’s Quiet Revolution: Why Circularity Is No Longer Optional—And What Comes Next

The Chicago Journal Staff on August 1, 2025

By: Marcus Trent

In an era marked by growing climate concerns and industrial practices that often prioritize short-term gains, few voices have been as consistently visionary—and firmly grounded in principle—as that of Albin Kaelin. The Swiss business leader, sustainability advocate, and author of From Rebel to Radical Innovator: Leading the Transformation Through Circularity has spent more than three decades challenging how we produce, sell, and dispose of goods. His ideas, once considered unconventional, are now becoming a more prominent part of the conversation surrounding business sustainability.

Kaelin’s achievements are not the result of following fleeting trends or buzzwords. Instead, they reflect a deep commitment to principles—and a refusal to accept approaches that lack clarity.

“When I was forced to write with my right hand as a left-handed child, I asked why. No one could explain it. That taught me something early: never accept what lacks clarity,” Kaelin reflects. “That idea has shaped the way I approach everything in life.”

This clarity-first mindset, paired with his well-known assertions, “Innovation and leadership are the only survival strategies” and “If you compare, you start to compromise,” has been instrumental in helping Kaelin navigate years of resistance from industries hesitant to challenge the status quo. For much of his career, he faced what he describes as constant “headwind.” Yet, as he observes, things are shifting. Circularity, once a fringe idea, is increasingly finding its place in the mainstream—and is even beginning to shape legislation.

Kaelin is widely recognized as a pioneer of the Cradle to Cradle® (C2C) philosophy, a design framework that aims to eliminate waste by ensuring all materials used in production can be safely reused or returned to nature. As the CEO of epeaswitzerland GmbH and former managing director of Rohner Textil AG, Kaelin played a pivotal role in launching Climatex®, the world’s first C2C-certified textile, back in the 1990s—well before sustainability became a buzzword in corporate circles.

His 2024 book, From Rebel to Radical Innovator, serves as more than just a memoir of his leadership journey; it offers a practical guide for businesses and leaders looking to transition to a circular model. Through 60 real-world examples from 57 companies, Kaelin illustrates the moral and practical case for systemic change. And his message is resonating: in recent years, Kaelin has earned over 30 major awards, including multiple recognitions as Best CEO of the Year and Most Innovative CEO of the Year.

However, Kaelin is quick to downplay the significance of these accolades.

“The recognition isn’t really about me or my company,” Kaelin says. “What matters most is that the topic—circularity, regeneration—is now being seen as essential to our collective future. That it is even on the radar today is a significant milestone.”

One of the most notable shifts Kaelin has observed is among retailers and consumers. For many years, large retailers were reluctant to embrace models that required more transparency, supply chain reform, and material accountability. Yet, with the rise of digital tools and increasing public awareness, the tide has begun to turn.

“With digital platforms, consumers now have more insight into the systems behind the products they purchase,” Kaelin points out. “This transparency has opened up new opportunities. Retailers like Migros in Switzerland, for example, have taken meaningful steps toward circularity.”

That said, Kaelin is careful to emphasize that the journey is far from complete—and there is still much work to be done. The challenge now, he believes, is scale. While smaller or mid-sized companies may be able to pivot more quickly, the global giants often resist change, preferring to apply circular principles in ways that may dilute their true impact.

“They want to do it their own way,” Kaelin notes. “It still feels like a David and Goliath situation. But history has shown how that story plays out.”

For Kaelin, the future of circularity depends not only on regulation or innovation but on trust. His approach, developed over years of engaging with skeptical business leaders, is based on persuasion rather than coercion. He avoids imposing ideas and instead speaks the language of industry, encouraging decision-makers to reflect on their personal values.

“If the concept makes sense to them personally, the motivation to act follows naturally,” he explains. “Once that happens, the real work—proving the concept—can begin.”

This balance of principle and persuasion is what Kaelin refers to as “working on the interface”—not as an activist outside the system, nor a conformist within it, but as a mediator between two worlds. And it’s a role that has become increasingly important as the planet nears ecological limits.

However, Kaelin is far from a pessimist. He remains hopeful, even as he calls for the radical changes needed to secure a sustainable future. He believes in the power of human ingenuity—and, perhaps more importantly, in the potential for business to be a force for good.

“Circularity isn’t just sustainable—it’s more efficient. It creates better value. It aligns with natural systems. That’s why it is increasingly becoming an imperative,” Kaelin asserts.

For consumers, Kaelin emphasizes the impact of informed choices. Supporting brands that embrace transparency, demanding circular products, and asking the right questions are all ways individuals can help drive systemic change.

Ultimately, From Rebel to Radical Innovator is more than just a book. It is a call to action—and an invitation—for everyone, from CEOs to ordinary citizens, to participate in shaping a more sustainable and responsible economy.

Because, as Kaelin has demonstrated, change often begins not when everyone agrees—but when one person refuses to accept the status quo.

To explore Albin Kaelin’s circular economy blueprint, visit book.epeaswitzerland.com or find his book on Amazon.

4 Ways to Monetize Your Newly Purchased Mini Excavator

The Chicago Journal Staff on July 31, 2025

Mini excavators are among the adaptable and efficient machines available for a wide range of light to medium-duty tasks. If you’ve recently chosen to buy a mini excavator, congratulations — you now own a versatile piece of equipment that can be put to work in multiple industries, from landscaping and construction to utilities and agriculture.

But what’s next after your purchase? How do you ensure your machine is actively contributing to your professional or business goals? This article outlines four realistic and practical ways to use your mini excavator in a professional capacity, helping you make full use of your investment.

1. Offer Excavation Services in Your Community

One of the practical ways to start using your mini excavator is by offering direct excavation services. Mini excavators are perfectly sized for projects that require precision in tight spaces or lighter groundwork — tasks that full-sized equipment may be too large or expensive to handle.

Here are some common services you can provide:

Digging foundations for small buildings, sheds, or garages
Excavating trenches for water lines, sewer systems, or cable installations
Grading and leveling terrain for landscaping or construction
Light demolition and debris removal

These types of jobs are frequently in demand from homeowners, builders, and small contractors. Starting locally — by reaching out to real estate developers, contractors, or landscapers — can help you establish initial working relationships. Consider creating a simple website or business page on social media where you can list your services, share completed projects, and make it easy for potential customers to contact you.

2. Work Alongside Trades and Contractors

Not every business in the construction or service sector owns a mini excavator, but many could benefit from having one on-site. This creates an opportunity to collaborate with established professionals who regularly require excavation work as part of their job.

Professionals you can assist include:

Electricians and plumbers who need trenching for underground cables or pipes
Landscapers who need grading and site preparation
General contractors who need light excavation during home remodeling or building projects

By offering yourself as a subcontractor — someone who brings both the equipment and the know-how — you increase your value to the team. You can approach these professionals directly or register with platforms that connect subcontractors to active job sites.

Reliable communication, punctuality, and a focus on safety and quality can go a long way toward building a strong professional reputation that leads to repeat jobs.

3. Use It in Your Own Landscaping or Property Management Work

If you’re already involved in landscaping, property maintenance, or real estate development, your mini excavator can be a major asset. Owning your own equipment enables you to tackle more complex tasks without relying on external rentals or services.

Tasks where a mini excavator can be beneficial include:

Removing old shrubs, roots, or small tree stumps
Moving dirt, gravel, rocks, or mulch for landscaping design
Digging post holes or trenches for fences and irrigation systems
Building terraced yards or retaining walls

This can be especially helpful if you’re running a small business or managing your own land, allowing you to expand the range of services you offer. For example, a landscaper could now handle earth-moving and grading in-house, instead of subcontracting.

4. Support Agricultural or Rural Projects

If you live in a rural area or work in agriculture, a mini excavator can be a powerful tool for improving efficiency and handling essential tasks. Unlike large agricultural machinery, mini excavators are easier to maneuver and require less space, making them suitable for a wide range of farm or homestead projects.

Some of the jobs it can help with include:

Clearing brush or preparing land for planting
Digging drainage ditches to improve water flow
Installing fence posts or livestock shelters
Moving small boulders, logs, or other materials

Farming and land management come with plenty of hands-on work — having your own mini excavator allows you to take control of these tasks and complete them on your timeline, using equipment that’s just the right size for your operation.

Final Thoughts

Choosing to buy a mini excavator is more than just a purchase — it’s a strategic decision that can support a wide range of practical applications. Whether you’re working independently, assisting other professionals, or improving your own property, the key is to match the capabilities of your machine to real-world tasks in your area.

Start by identifying the most common needs in your community — from landscaping and trenching to small-scale construction or rural maintenance. Then, invest time in learning how to safely operate your excavator and promote your services professionally.

With consistent effort and a focus on quality, your mini excavator can become a cornerstone of useful, in-demand work across multiple industries.

Prof. George Nyamndi and the Reflective Revolution of Black Consciousness: A New Paradigm in Race Discourse

The Chicago Journal Staff on July 30, 2025

By: Elena Mart

Amidst intense argument on racism, responsibility, and identity, there’s one voice that rises above the rest, relentless, incisive, and determined to reverse the currents of Black consciousness. That voice is Prof. George Nyamndi, whose latest book, The Urgency of Black Madness, deconstructs dominant narratives and readjusts the argument on racism, not just as external, but as complex and most often internalized, calling for genuine scrutiny.

A Scholar Grounded in Self-reflection

Prof. Nyamndi, who is penning from Boston in 2025, is closely familiar with the cultural identity controversy and historical legacies. A social critic, philosopher, and writer, his scholarly career traverses the intersection of Africa’s blemished histories and the Black diasporic condition. But what makes his new book different is not so much its depth but its courage: it is a book that summons the Black race to questioning, to pose challenging questions, and to do it without emotionalism or accusatory shyness.

Instead of invoking the familiar language of systemic blame, Nyamndi points the mirror at the very constituency he addresses, not to criticize, but to activate. He refuses to demand progress and dignity from others but urges them to be earned through self-reflection, creativity, and recalibration of culture.

Reframing the Core Questions

At the core of The Urgency of Black Madness is the fundamental thesis that the long-lasting hold of racism is, in part, reinforced through the Black race’s hesitation to claim its responsibility for fashioning its history. The book does not exclude slavery’s atrocities or the ongoing institutional discrimination. Nevertheless, it questions the following: if oppression is inevitable, what has the race done to respond to it?

Nyamndi states: “The white race owes our race no duty. We owe ourselves every duty.” It is this shifting of the burden of responsibility from other people’s criticism to self-accountability that becomes the pulse of the manuscript. For him, only through “grabbing the gas rather than replacing the battery,” a metaphor he uses to explain misdiagnosing causes, can the Black race effectively spark change.

The Madness of Genius

The so-called “madness” of the title is not pathological but metaphorical, symbolizing a revolutionary awakening of purpose, creativity, and a relentless work ethic. Nyamndi refers to historical counterparts from Einstein and Copernicus, and even to modern-day entrepreneurs like Bezos, as examples of revolutionary madness, those who are willing to break free from collective conformity in order to chase extraordinary vision.

This is his appeal to the Black community: to direct that same “creative madness” toward science, technology, and education. He suggests that genuine racial equality will not be achieved through reparations or moral arguments, but by engagement in the international economy of innovation.

“The world operates on terms of production, excellence, and power,” declares Nyamndi. “If you qualify on those terms, you belong. If you don’t, you don’t.”

A Controversial but Constructive Viewpoint

To some, Nyamndi’s framing will be controversial. He critiques legendary movements and leaders, not in a bid to taint their legacy, but in order to show how the dialogue has stayed stagnant. He questions the efficacy of victim narratives and urges a change from “what they did to us” to “what we have done for ourselves.”

But even in criticism, the book is constructive. Instead of blaming, it offers conversation. It’s a book written not to polarize, but to encourage thought, based on the premise that the way to racial recovery is through educational advancement, economic engagement, and technological applicability.

Importantly, Nyamndi avoids sweeping indictments of any race. His approach is neither anti-white nor overly idealistic about Black potential. Instead, it’s pragmatic. He acknowledges disparities while urging his community to be active participants in rewriting their legacy, not in protest, but in production.

The African Context and Global Relevance

A pivotal portion of the manuscript situates Africa not as a romanticized homeland but as the spiritual and intellectual launchpad for global Black restoration. From historical introspection to modern political awakenings, such as the reformist governance in Burkina Faso, Nyamndi points to Africa’s youth and innovation as potential cornerstones of racial renewal.

He suggests that the global Black struggle is intertwined with Africa’s future. “The salvation of the race shall come from Africa, or it shall not come.” This sentiment anchors the book’s global vision, one that transcends national borders and emphasizes a shared cultural and intellectual responsibility.

A Blueprint for Race Theory

Perhaps the book’s most significant intellectual contribution is its advocacy for an Afrocentric race theory, distinct from traditional Western frameworks. Nyamndi argues that Black liberation must be informed by its own historical context, not modeled after the experiences or solutions of other races.

This is not isolationist thinking. Instead, it’s a push for authenticity; a belief that a race must define its criteria for progress on its own terms, rooted in its unique historical, cultural, and philosophical realities.

A Voice for the Present Moment

The Urgency of Black Madness is not merely a critique of historical missteps. It is a roadmap for future generations. It dares to demand more from a race that has suffered, not by dismissing its suffering, but by insisting that suffering alone does not entitle it to progress, but that effort does.

Prof. Nyamndi is not offering any sort of final word but an opening conversation. His voice can provoke, disturb, and disrupt, but in a world of scripted stories, that might be what’s necessary. The book is both a reflection and a guide, revealing uncomfortable truths but also providing a way forward.

Final Thought

In The Urgency of Black Madness, Prof. George Nyamndi has written a book of shocking honesty and scholarly reach. It will not please everyone, but nor does it aim to please, instead to trigger. And in a world where identity, power, and history continue to sit at the table of global discourse, perhaps no greater urgency exists than this: to stir the madness of possibility within, and at last, authoritatively, act upon it.

Disclaimer: While every effort has been made to accurately summarize and present the ideas within the book, this review is for informational purposes only and should not be seen as an endorsement of the views expressed. Readers seeking a deeper understanding of the work should engage directly with the book and consider consulting a range of perspectives.

What is Bachata Dance? Chicago Shows the World Bachata Style this Labor Day Week

The Chicago Journal Staff on July 28, 2025

By: Kattie Muniz

“What is bachata dance?” Ask a Chicagoan this Labor Day week stretch and you’re liable to get more than a definition. You’ll get an invitation to a Hyatt ballroom turned Caribbean patio, to twining guitar music that once drifted through Santo Domingo’s bars, and to the city-spanning buzz that makes Chicago feel like the Dominican Republic’s northern cousin for four unforgettable nights.

From September 4-8, 2025, the Bachata Sensual Festival Chicago returns to Rosemont’s Hyatt Regency O’Hare, pulling dancers from more than 30 states and a dozen countries. It is the weekend when the Midwest’s rail hub briefly restyles itself as America’s bachata capital — proof that a social dance born in marginalized Dominican patios now commands a prime spot on Chicago’s cultural calendar.

Why Chicago Keeps the Beat

Long before the festival planted its flag, the city’s Latin clubs primed the dance floors. Weekly socials at venues like Alhambra Palace, La Victoria, and Guild Row give locals a chance to listen to and to bachata music, as well as salsa, merengue, and other forms of Latin dance well past midnight. Add Latin Street’s 25-year-old studio network and you have a built-in audience of bachata dancers hungry for guest artists and late-night practice.

That base matters. Festivals thrive where students already take bachata class, listen to bachata music, and swap videos of their favorite bachata artists on group chats. In Chicago, the pipeline from weeknight lessons to international dance festivals feels seamless.

A Festival That Turns O’Hare Into the Malecón

Founder Damian Guzman — Puerto Rican transplant, Bachata Sensual America pioneer, and the mind behind Houston’s acclaimed spring event — picked Chicago for its geographic reach and its restless dance-floor energy. Last year’s inaugural edition almost sold out; this year’s sequel adds more late-night socials and a curated lineup that spans every style of bachata dance:

Dominican-style footwork labs that drill the basic bachata steps, hip movement, and playful syncopations.

Modern bachata dance sessions that blend ballroom dance styling with urban bachata body waves and dips.

Sensual bachata intensives led by Spanish ambassadors Jorelle & Monica and Brian & Alex, breaking down the isolation techniques and fusion-style bachata moves that dominate viral reels.

Sensual bachata master camps by some of the world’s most renowned couples, such as Korke & Judith, Pablo & Raquel, and Luis & Andrea.

DJs program everything from bolero-inspired first bachata recordings to faster music that pushes social dancers into sleek fusion dance patterns, and this edition also includes an amazing concert by bachata international sensation Dani J, visiting from Spain. The result: a 3:00 A.M. room where a basic dance sequence from traditional bachata meets the sweeping body rolls of bachata sensual in the span of a single song.

From Santo Domingo to the South Side

The term bachata once meant “back-yard party.” In the 1960s, the dance developed alongside guitar music and anguished bolero lyrics in working-class neighborhoods of Santo Domingo, the country of origin that still claims bachata as a national treasure. For decades, bachata style was considered “marginalized music,” dismissed by elites and banned from mainstream radio.

Yet, the bachata dance style continued to evolve. Juan Luis Guerra’s polished arrangements, Romeo Santos’s crossover hits, and a wave of bachata musicians modernized the sound. Dancers followed suit: classic basic steps gave rise to bachata moderna’s turn patterns and, eventually, the close-embrace, isolation-driven sensual dance that Korke & Judith codified in Cádiz.

That lineage will be on full display in Chicago, from workshops on characteristic Dominican bachata to showcase pieces dripping with body waves and dramatic dips.

Learning the Language of Connection

For newcomers wondering how to take their first bachata class, the festival’s beginner boot camps strip the moves down to a basic bachata four-count: side, together, side, tap. Instructors drill the footwork, then layer in turns, body isolation, and that unmistakable hip pop. Veterans chase mastery — workshopping ballroom-inspired frame, experimenting with fusion-style footwork, or perfecting the subtle lead-and-follow cues that make social dance style bachata feel effortless.

Like most Latin partner idioms, the exchange is wordless yet striking: the lead issues a gentle signal through posture, the follow replies in kind. Whether you dance bachata in Santo Domingo or Chicago, every subtle redirect echoes the moment bachata began as a backyard serenade. The genre blends bolero’s romance with merengue’s pulse — a characteristic of bachata that lets partners glide across traditions while the crowd soaks up the swirl of Latin music.

Such give-and-take proves that music and dance form a shared tongue: “We dance from the first guitar pluck to the hush of the final lyric,” shares Guzman. “And in that dialogue, strangers become partners without ever speaking a word.”

When the Beat Drops, the City Changes

At midnight on Saturday, the lights dim, and an emcee reminds the crowd that bachata originated as the voice of the barrio. Moments later, a bachata song by Antony Santos melts into a Juan Luis Guerra classic, and 1,000+ dancers glide in synchronized body waves — a living timeline of different bachata eras played out in real time.

By dawn, strangers have become partners. Chicago has collected another cache of bachata social stories — whispers of fusion-style bachata experiments, of first dips gone right, of guitar-fueled urban bachata tracks that will live on in memory long after the weekend ends.

Know Before You Go

Dates: September 4th-8th, 2025.

Venue: Hyatt Regency O’Hare, Rosemont.

Passes: Tiered day and full-weekend options, with additional volunteer discounts available.

Pro Tip: Pack comfortable shoes. Ballrooms at Chicago festivals run cooler than Caribbean salons, but the dance floors are larger, and you’ll cover miles in basic steps alone.

Chicago may not be the place where bachata was created, but for one weekend, it becomes the country’s most electrifying answer to that evergreen question: “What is bachata dance?” The answer is a fusion of history and modern dance, marginalized music reclaimed and reimagined, a social dance style that invites everyone onto the floor, and, in early September, it is Chicago’s heartbeat.