Harvey, Illinois is a primarily African-American south suburb of Chicago.  In the 1800's it housed an orphanage for African-American children.  In the past it was known for having some of the best places to eat in the Chicagoland area.  Places like Anello's Pizza, City BBQ, George's BBQ, Gino's Steakhouse  and Jean's Bakery.  Sadly, today it is known mostly for crime and poverty; but there is something else -- if you look deeper.

This small city of roughly 25,000 has provided gems for the rest of the world to share in for decades.  A bounty of sport, movies, music and culture!  Harvey gave the world the R&B greats:  The Dells (I was married to the daughter of a Dells member).  Harvey also produced baseball hall of famer Lou Boudreau and comic legend Tom Dreesen; as well as actors Michael Boatman and Danitra Vance.  In the arena of politics Harvey elected its first Black Mayor in the 1980's, David N. Johnson, who went on to work for African-American empowerment in the region.  The city's high school, Thornton Township High School, is known -- with good reason -- as NFL High!  Napoleon Harris (NFL), Barry Gardner (NFL), Antwaan Randle El (NFL), Melvin Ely (NBA), Rod Higgins (NBA) and many more notables.

Just on one block -- 155th & Vine -- we had Grammy Award Winning Music Producer Maurice Joshua, Comedian & Actor Aubrey Fourte, Actor & Producer Mark Fourte, Ph.D & Lt. Col. U.S. Air Force Officer Anthony Thompson, at least three others who went on to get Doctorates, and myself all growing up together.  Oh, and just around the corner was Lamar McGriggs, NFL defensive back; while Grammy Award Winning Music Producer Hula Mahone was in walking distance.

Yes there is crime and poverty in Harvey, but there is also a drive to achieve and overcome!