Black History Month spotlight: Sergeant Ellsworth Dansby Jr.

As Black History Month comes to a close, we proudly honor the legacy of a “Soy City” native whose life embodied courage, determination and service – Sergeant Ellsworth Dansby Jr. of Decatur.  

Born in Decatur in 1914, Dansby developed a fascination with airplanes at an early age. At 12 years old, he flew his first solo flight after teaching himself the fundamentals of aviation. He later received formal training at Decatur Airport, earning his pilot accreditation and logging more than 100 hours in the air.

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Today would be William Stratton’s 112th birthday

Today would have been the 112th birthday for William Stratton, who was Illinois’ governor from 1953-1961. However, he died in 2001 at the age of 87.

Stratton was born in Ingleside in 1914, and graduated from the University of Arizona when he was 20 years old. He then started a public service career and was elected to the U.S. House of Representatives in 1941. When his term ended in 1943, Stratton was elected as Illinois’ State Treasurer in 1944 before winning the House of Representatives election again in 1947. And once again, he became Illinois’ State Treasurer in 1950 after his term expired.

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Did you know that Illinois has a traveling Underground Railroad museum?

Journey to Freedom: Illinois’ Underground Railroad is a traveling museum that visits communities across Illinois, spreading the history of the Underground Railroad and its history in Illinois. The exhibit highlights the real stories and contributions Black and white Americans made to help freedom-seekers escape the horrors of slavery and reach a better life.

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Celebrating Lunar New Year in Chicago’s Chinatown

Each winter, Chicago’s Chinatown comes alive with color and celebration as thousands gather for the annual Chinese New Year Parade. Held along Wentworth Avenue, the event is one of the largest Lunar New Year celebrations in the Midwest and a cherished tradition for families across Illinois.

Celebrations take place from February to March, and the parade marks the beginning of the Lunar New Year on the traditional Chinese calendar. With this being the year of the horse. Spectators line the streets to watch vibrant dragon and lion dances, marching bands, cultural performances, and community organizations make their way through the neighborhood. The steady beat of drums and the flash of red and gold decorations create a festive atmosphere, even on the coldest winter day.

The lion and dragon dances are highlights of the celebration, symbolizing good fortune, prosperity and strength in the year ahead. The event not only celebrates heritage but also invites visitors from all backgrounds to learn more about Chinese culture and traditions.

Beyond the parade, Chinatown’s restaurants and shops buzz with activity. Families gather for special meals, storefronts are decorated with lanterns and banners, and local businesses welcome guests exploring the neighborhood.

Chicago’s Chinese New Year Parade reflects the rich cultural diversity that makes Illinois unique. It’s a joyful reminder that even in the heart of winter, communities across our state find meaningful ways to come together and celebrate new beginnings.