Wednesday, April 29

Tease photo

Begin Your Mornings Feeling Refreshed

Family Features - Ready, set, go. Just as you would set off at the starting line of a race, this hectic pace is how mornings begin for many men and women.

Tease photo

Political Leaders inform residents via online forum

The Hyde Park Kenwood Community Conference hosted a COVID-19 Virtual Community Forum. Residents had the opportunity to hear from political leaders and others from the community about what is being done on the local level to help people during COVID-19.

Siemens Foundation Provides $1.5M Across 12 Community Health Centers to Support COVID-19 Response Efforts

In a news release, the Siemens Foundation recently announced it is providing $1.5 million to community health centers across 12 U.S. cities to respond to the COVID-19 crisis.

Tease photo

Crowe appoints first chief diversity officer

As part of its commitment to diversity and inclusion, Crowe LLP recently named Chris Mitchell as the firm’s first chief diversity officer. Crowe is a public accounting, consulting and technology firm with offices around the world.

Tease photo

SCHOOL CLOSURES HAVE PARENTS SCRAMBLING TO KEEP THEIR JOBS AND SECURE CHILDCARE

State health officials said new COVID-19 cases and even deaths have slightly dropped over the past two weeks, but that means nothing to parents struggling to keep their jobs because their childcare options are limited.

Tease photo

Radio personality passes along advice

AC Green has spent his career as a radio personality, giving people pertinent financial information in the hopes that they will be able to flourish and become successful. During his 17 years on the radio, he has helped thousands of people save their homes with his advice. Now, Green is giving advice on how people can navigate the economy during COVID-19.

Tease photo

New Komen COVID-19 Action Fund Supports People Facing Breast Cancer

Susan G. Komen® Chicago recently announced the creation of a new Komen COVID-19 Action Fund to help the organization support the unique needs of people facing breast cancer during this health and economic crisis.

Tease photo

Supplemental Security Income recipients will receive automatic Economic Impact Payments

Th e Internal Revenue Service, working in partnership with the Treasury Department and the Social Security Administration, recently announced that recipients of Supplemental Security Income (SSI) will automatically receive automatic Economic Impact Payments.

Tease photo

Mortgage Relief and COVID-19 Scams: What You Need to Know

StatePoint - Unfortunately, during times of hardship, families are often targeted by fraud artists attempting to take advantage of those needing assistance. The COVID-19 crisis is no exception, with many scammers pretending to extend a critical lifeline to struggling homeowners through so-called “foreclosure rescue fraud.”

Tease photo

CITY OF CHICAGO HELPING SMALL BUSINESSES STAY AFLOAT WITH COVID-19 LOANS

An Englewood entrepreneur with three, South Side coffee shops including one in Hyde Park, was among the first recipients to receive a low-interest loan from the $100 million Chicago Small Business Resiliency Fund.

Tease photo

Slaughter Backs Measure to Prevent Price Gouging of Critical Medical Supplies

In response to the state’s need for medical equipment to treat Coronavirus (COVID 19), state Rep. Justin Slaughter, D-Chicago, is supporting legislation that would help to ensure that Illinois’ hospitals have access to the medical equipment they need.

Tease photo

School Districts ramp up remote learning

On Friday, April 17, Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker announced that schools in the state would remain closed for the remainder of the school year because of COVID-19. On Friday, March 13, Pritzker announced that schools would close to on-site learning beginning on Tuesday, March 17, through Sunday, March 29. This led to school districts implementing online learning for students.

Tease photo

Congresswoman Kelly Hosts Eighth COVID-19 Response Call with Farmers and Agricultural Workers

Congresswoman Robin Kelly hosted a telephone town hall discussion with farmers and agricultural workers from the 2nd Congressional District where participants discussed concerns related to the COVID19 crisis and their suggestions for further legislative relief efforts in Congress.

Tease photo

FELLOWSHIP CHURCH DONATES MONEY TO GREATER CHICAGO FOOD DEPOSITORY

Because of COVID-19, many churches in Chicago haven’t held services in a month. That is the case for Fellowship Missionary Baptist Church, which is located on 4543 S. Princeton. But, the Reverend Reginald W. Sharpe, Jr., pastor of Fellowship, has still been challenging his congregation.

Tease photo

New Data Showing Chicago Is Starting to Flatten the Curve of Covid-19

Mayor Lori E. Lightfoot and the Chicago Department of Public Health (CDPH) recently announced new data suggesting social distancing and the state’s stay-at-home order may be working to flatten the COVID-19 curve in Chicago, slowing the rate of increase in total cases in Chicago.

Tease photo

SHOW LOOKS AT THE LIVES OF PREACHERS’ KIDS

Alvin Daniels took more than 800 interviews with preachers’ kids from the last 12 years and created a stage play based on the lives of people whose parents were clergy. Now, he has created a television series based on the same idea, a funny look at their lives, called “Preacher’s Kids: The Untold Stories

More Than 650,000 Unemployment Claims Filed Since March 1

The Illinois Department of Employment Security (IDES) recently released new statewide data showing the department processed over 141,000 new initial unemployment claims for the week ending April 11.

An Open Letter To All Essential Service Workers

During this pandemic, Thornton Township has also maintained its Monday – Friday, senior transportation services – making sure that hundreds of senior residents who can no longer drive – get to scheduled medical services such as dialysis and doctor appointments or trips to the grocery store, pharmacy or other essential destinations.

COMCAST EXTENDS COMPREHENSIVE COVID-19 RESPONSE POLICIES TO JUNE 30

April 27, 2020 – As shelter in place continues to be the norm and schools remain closed across the country, Comcast announced today it will extend its commitments for Xfinity customers through June 30 to help ensure students can finish out the school year from home and remain connected to the internet during the COVID-19 crisis.

Wednesday, April 22

Tease photo

McDonald’s Celebrates Healthcare Workers and First Responders with Free “Thank You Meals”

Frontline heroes can enjoy free meals at participating U.S. McDonald’s restaurants

In appreciation for the healthcare workers, police officers, firefighters and paramedics who are committed to our health and safety, McDonald’s will offer free Thank You Meals*, between Wednesday, April 22 and Tuesday, May 5, as a token of appreciation for their selfless service.

Tease photo

Seniors hoop for their health online

Each morning, a group of seniors gather via zoom and hula hoop for their health. Jacquelyne Underwood instructs the class and leads the group of women.

Tease photo

Schools Can Play an Instrumental Role in Empowering Young Leaders

StatePoint - From encouraging dialogue on mental health to initiating grassroots fundraising efforts for pediatric cancer, students across the country are choosing issues they’re passionate about and generating real change. Parents, educators and community members may ask a pertinent question: how can we develop this initiative in every child?

Tease photo

CENSUS 2020 IS UNDERWAY

April 1 marked Census Day and weeks later, residents have received notices to fill out their Census forms. Leaders from the city of Chicago’s Complete Count Committee say filling out the Census and being counted is very important as millions of dollars are at stake.

Tease photo

MOTHER AND DAUGHTER CO-WRITE BOOK WITH AIM TO INSPIRE

Dominique Jordan Turner thought it was important to instill confidence in her daughter early on. Growing up, she struggled with confidence and wanted something different for Kennedy.

Tease photo

ENA Foundation Announces COVID-19 Relief Fund

The ENA Foundation recently announced the new COVID-19 Relief Fund to support emergency nurses serving on the front line of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.

Tease photo

RESTAURATEURS PROVIDE FOOD TO RCH

When Roseland Community Hospital (RCH) had to close its kitchen, several organizations in the community came to its aid to feed the patients and employees. The hospital is on the frontlines, testing and taking in patients with COVID-19.

Lowe’s Temporarily Increases Hourly Wages And Implements New Safety Efforts In Response To COVID-19

Lowe’s Companies, Inc. has announced additional actions being made across all U.S. stores to further protect and provide for both their associates and customers during this unprecedented time.

Tease photo

Consumers Invited to Support COVID-19 Relief Efforts

Global outdoor lifestyle brand Timberland is calling upon consumers worldwide to join Timberland and its parent company, VF Corporation, to support the GlobalGiving Coronavirus Relief Fund. The VF Foundation, the private grantmaking organization funded by VF, made an initial contribution of $1.5M and will match all consumer donations two-to-one, up to an additional $500,000.

Hunter emphasizes ABC’s of safe sleep for infants

State Senator Mattie Hunter (D-Chicago) is emphasizing the importance of safe sleep for infants during a time when many parents are experiencing heightened stress levels and alternative daily routines, which could include new caregivers for their children.

Tease photo

IT’S EARTH DAY AND HERE’S HOW YOU CAN HELP

Shedd Aquarium is sharing ways Illinois residents can help protect our planet from the safety of our own homes as people across the globe celebrate the 50th anniversary of Earth Day which is recognized today, April 22.

IDES Waives Penalty for Employers

The Illinois Department of Employment Security (IDES) recently announced that employers will not face a penalty fee for filing their February 2020 wage reports late. The emergency rule was electronically filed with the Secretary of State on April 7, 2020 and became immediately effective.

BET Rallies to Support Communities of Color Most Impacted By COVID-19 Pandemic

BET has announced an array of high impact initiatives to support communities of color impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. Black Americans are being disproportionately harmed by the health and financial devastation wrought by the COVID-19 pandemic.

Individual Stimulus Checks Begin to Arrive, What Should You Expect?

Payments from the $2.3 trillion federal coronavirus stimulus package have begun hitting individual bank accounts. In a memo, IRS Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin said the first round of payments were sent on Thursday, April 9, and should have arrived in bank accounts on April 14.

IN MEMORIAM: Earl Graves Sr., Black Enterprise Founder Dies

Tributes have poured in for Black Enterprise founder Earl G. Graves Sr., who died on April 6 at the age of 85. “At 9:22 p.m. this evening, April 6, my father and hero, Earl Graves Sr., the founder of Black Enterprise, passed away quietly after a long battle with Alzheimer’s,” Earl Graves Jr. wrote on Twitter. “I loved and admired this giant of a man and am blessed to be his namesake. Love you, dad.”

Tease photo

New GMDB800 Step Tracker For Women

Casio G-SHOCK recently announced a new digital step-tracker to the Summer line-up of sport resistant watches for the active on-the-go woman.

City, Lyft And Uber Come Together To Address Increase In Victims Fleeing Violence

Mayor Lori E. Lightfoot recently announced a partnership with Chicago’s ride-hailing providers, Lyft and Uber, to support any resident that is seeking refuge from domestic violence during the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic.

Monday, April 20

CENSUS 2020: BEING COUNTED IS IMPERATIVE

The implications of a complete count in the 2020 Census are more important in this moment than in at any time in the last 100 years. Faced with a pandemic unlike anything we’ve seen in a century, we cannot lose sight of the fact that census results are used to inform planning and funding for hospitals, health clinics, emergency preparedness and even school lunch programs. And, as is playing out on our televisions screens daily, the disparities in these areas are matters of life or death for people of color. Yet our hard to count communities are the ones most likely not to complete their census forms. Shifting our thinking to make the 2020 Census a priority is imperative!

Friday, April 17

Tease photo

Counting on Chicago Coalition Mobilizes Celebrities, Pastors and Elected Leaders to Proclaim a Single Message: Be Counted

Series of new PSAs the latest element of a multi-front digital campaign to encourage Census 2020 participation

The Counting on Chicago Coalition (COCC) has enlisted the help of high profile public influencers for a series of public service announcements (PSAs) to encourage the public to “Be Counted”. It’s just the latest vehicle in a comprehensive push to secure a complete count of hard-to reach populations in Chicago.

Wednesday, April 15

Howard University Student Alexandria Adigun Awarded Prestigious Goldwater Scholarship for STEM

Howard University junior Alexandria Adigun is the recipient of the 2020 Goldwater Scholarship, a prestigious award from The Barry Goldwater Scholarship and Excellence in Education Foundation

Tease photo

UIC RECEIVES $2.8M FROM PRIVATE DONOR TO INCREASE EARLY CHILDHOOD EDUCATION TEACHER PREPARATION

The University of Illinois at Chicago College of Education has received a $2.8 million gift to help expand the number of early childhood teachers in Chicago and surrounding areas.

Tease photo

Available Services for Domestic Violence, Sexual Assault Survivors Expanding

Th e Illinois Department of Human Services (IDHS) recently announced it is launching a $1.2 million plan to increase the capacity of its current statewide network of services for domestic violence and sexual assault survivors during the current COVID-19 pandemic.

Tease photo

COMPANY DONATES MONEY TO NON-PROFIT ORGANIZATIONS

During COVID-19, businesses are showing up to give back to non-profits. MadeGood is one of those companies donating to non-profits whose services are helping people get through this time.

Tease photo

State Prohibits Non-Essential Workers From Using Emergency Childcare Centers

Parents needing childcare assistance during the COVID-19 pandemic cannot utilize the hundreds of daycare facilities that remain open throughout the state unless they are deemed an essential worker.

Tease photo

COVID-19 Response Fund supports local nonprofits

Chicago Community Trust has partnered with United Way Chicago to create the Chicago Community COVID-19 Response Fund. Its purpose is to provide local non-profit organizations with money to help the people in the communities they serve and increase their capacity to continue to serve during COVID-19.

Tease photo

HOTELS PROVIDE ACCOMMODATIONS FOR THOSE ON THE FRONTLINE

Healthcare workers and first responders on the frontline of fighting COVID-19 can find respite at hotels in Chicago thanks to an agreement between the hotels and the city of Chicago.

Healthcare workers and first responders on the frontline of fighting COVID-19 can find respite at hotels in Chicago thanks to an agreement between the hotels and the city of Chicago

Tease photo

March Housing Trends Provide First Glimpse of COVID-19 Impact on U.S. Housing Market

The U.S. housing market began to show signs of slowing in the second half of March as the year-over-year decline in inventory softened, the number of newly listed properties declined and prices decelerated compared to earlier in the month, according to realtor.com®’s March Housing Trends Report released recently.

Tease photo

Jay King Calls on Private Sector to Assist Small Black Businesses Amid the Coronavirus Crisis

Jay King, the chief executive officer and president of the California Black Chamber of Commerce (CBCC), is initiating a statewide call to action to the private sector, requesting banks, multinational corporations, the technology industry, and philanthropic organizations to create funding for grants for African American small business owners as they struggle to survive amid the Coronavirus pandemic.

SBA and Treasury Begin Public-Private Mobilization Effort to Distribute Funds

Following President Trump’s signing of the historic Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act, SBA Administrator Jovita Carranza and Treasury Secretary Steven T. Mnuchin recently announced that the SBA and Treasury Department have initiated a robust mobilization effort of banks and other lending institutions to provide small businesses with the capital they need.

Tease photo

Simply Organic Beauty Launches Self Love Box to Promote Mental Health Awareness in Beauty Salons

Simply Organic Beauty has partnered with non-profit movement To Write Love On Her Arms to spark thoughtful conversation and awareness around mental health in beauty salons through their Self Love Charity Box.

‘All in Illinois’ Reinforces State’s Stay at Home Message

Governor JB Pritzker recently launched a new statewide effort called ‘All in Illinois’ to reinforce the state’s core message, backed by scientists and public health experts: stay at home and stay safe. As Illinoisans continue to practice social distancing to stay healthy, ‘All in Illinois’ is a way to unite residents across the state and remind them we are all in this together.

Tease photo

FOOD PANTRY PIVOTS DURING COVID-19

Local food pantries have seen an increase in the number of people who need their resources during the COVID-19 outbreak and food pantries are having to change the way food is distributed.

Tease photo

Fund to support artists during COVID-19

Chicago Mayor Lori Lightfoot and Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker announced a relief fund for artists which will provide financial assistance. Arts for Illinois Relief Fund is a partnership between the city, the state, as well as other philanthropic entities. The goal is to meet the needs of creatives during COVID-19. With the stay-at-home order extended until April 30, theaters, art galleries and museums remain closed.

Tease photo

MEDICAL STAFF AT ROSELAND COMMUNITY HOSPITAL TREATED TO LUNCH BY LOCAL RESTAURANTS

The medical staff at Roseland Community Hospital, 45 W. 111th St., has eaten well the past few weeks thanks to local restaurants donating lunches to help front line workers who are battling COVID-19. And not only have staff members been eating well, patients have been too.

Thursday, April 9

Tease photo

Comcast Makes More Than Two Dozen More Entertainment Networks and Subscription Video Services Available for Free

AFRO, Aspire TV, Brown Sugar, Cinelatino, Kanal D Drama, Kocowa, RCN Novelas, REVOLT, TV One and ViendoMovies Are Among Additional Choices Xfinity Customers Can Access At No Extra Cost

Comcast Makes More Than Two Dozen More Entertainment Networks and Subscription Video Services Available for Free AFRO, Aspire TV, Brown Sugar, Cinelatino, Kanal D Drama, Kocowa, RCN Novelas, REVOLT, TV One and ViendoMovies Are Among Additional Choices Xfinity Customers Can Access At No Extra Cost

Wednesday, April 8

Tease photo

Prepare for purchasing and closing on a home

Once you’ve found the right property, learn what you can expect ahead of the actual purchase and closing. You’ve reviewed your spending plan, been preapproved for a mortgage, and made an offer on the home of your dreams. Now, it’s time to close — the final steps before transferring of the property deed to your name after satisfying all the conditions of the purchase contract. Here are some things to consider as you finalize your purchase.

Tease photo

Nasdaq Pledges Business and Philanthropic Support

Nasdaq, Inc. (Nasdaq: NDAQ) recently announced its philanthropic support in response to the Coronavirus COVID-19 pandemic. With our global community experiencing this unprecedented time in history, Nasdaq, a global technology company serving the capital markets and other industries, is taking action to commit cash and in-kind donations totaling $6 million to COVID-19 response and relief efforts to provide immediate assistance to those who are most at risk.

Tease photo

CITY PROVIDES FINANCIAL RELIEF FOR TRANSPORTATION DURING THE COVID-19 CRISIS

Those who are designated essential during the COVID-19 crisis and who have to go to work in light of the stay-at-home order, can find some financial relief when it comes to transportation.

Tease photo

FAMILY LAWYERS FIELD CALLS ABOUT CUSTODY DURING COVID-19 While COVID-19 continues to

While COVID-19 continues to change the way people live, with stay-at-home orders being extended through April 30, as well as schools being closed until that time, family law attorneys are receiving calls for guidance to navigate child custody issues.

Tease photo

Steps Taken to Address Unprecedented Volume of Unemployment Claims

Governor Pritzker and the Illinois Department of Employment Security (IDES) recently announced that they are taking additional steps to address the unprecedented volume of unemployment benefit claims the department has fielded as a result of COVID-19.

Tease photo

Red Roof® Launches Program to Help College Students Find Alternative Housing

As mandated closings of schools across the country have left many students with nowhere to go due to COVID-19, Red Roof® is helping university and continuing education students find alternative housing through its Student Support Program.

Tease photo

Nasdaq Pledges Business and Philanthropic Support in Response to COVID-19

Nasdaq, Inc. (Nasdaq: NDAQ) recently announced its philanthropic support in response to the Coronavirus COVID-19 pandemic.

Tease photo

Why a Personalized Diet Can Help You Achieve Better Results

StatePoint - From custom designed sneakers to tailor made sunglasses, the trend of personalization is going head-to-toe, and for good reason, making its way to the world of weight loss and wellness.

Tease photo

CONVENTION CENTERS NEEDED TO HELP TREAT COVID-19 PATIENTS

State and federal health officials are seeking to transform convention centers into overflow sites to treat COVID-19 patients and to ease the burden on hospitals running out of beds.

Tease photo

UNIVERSITY TO PROVIDE MEAL PREPARATION AND DELIVERY

The University of Chicago is doing its part to support the needs of residents on the South Side during COVID-19. One of three measures the university launched recently in March involves providing meal preparation and delivery to South Side residents, in partnership with Greater Chicago Food Depository.

Tease photo

HELPFUL TIPS TO STAY SAFE ON THE INTERNET

Many workers have been given the option of working from home during COVID-19. While working from home and using the internet can be convenient, there are some safety measures to keep in mind. Always Giving Back (AGB) Innovative Security Solutions is a black-owned security firm based in Chicago. John Griffin is the CEO and co-founder of the company, along with his wife, Dr. Denitra Griffin. Arba Houlden is the COO of AGB. Both Griffin and Houlden provided some useful tips to keep those working from home safe while using the internet.

Maven Wave Certified as a Great Place to Work® Fourth Year In a Row

For the fourth year in a row, Maven Wave has earned designation as a Great Place to Work-Certified™ company based on employee feedback. According to Maven Wave’s Great Place to Work profile, 94% of Maven Wave’s employees say it’s a great workplace “compared to 59% of employees at a typical U.S.-based company.

Tease photo

Illinois Bill to extend time for homeowners to pay delinquent property taxes

According to Cook County Treasurer Maria Pappas, there are more than 58,000 property owners who owe more than $180 million in delinquent taxes. Those taxes would have been put up for auction on Friday, May 8, but SB3356 was introduced to provide them with some relief.

Tuesday, April 7

Children’s Research Triangle Announces Remote Access to No-Cost Therapy Services for Uninsured Children and Families in the Chicagoland Area

During the current public health crisis, Children’s Research Triangle is proud to continue its free therapy services for children and families in the Chicagoland area. In order to help children and families cope with uncertain times, both phone and video treatment are now available through a secure platform to offer support to families when they need it the most.

ComEd Warns Customers About COVID-19-Related Energy Scams

As the state of Illinois and the world navigate the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic, ComEd reminds customers to be on alert for potential scams targeting individuals and small-business owners. Imposters posing as ComEd employees are taking advantage of the uncertainty brought on by this health crisis to approach individuals and steal their personal information and money.

Wednesday, April 1

Is Your Company’s Bench Deep Enough During Difficult Times?

In the uncertain times that the coronavirus produced, business leaders were forced to face the fact that employees might not be available every day to do their jobs – either because of their own health concerns or because they were scrambling to make childcare arrangements because of school closings.

Tease photo

NEW EMERGENCY LOAN PROGRAM TO BOOST SMALL BUSINESSES

To give small businesses and their employees a boost and lessen the financial challenge during COVID-19, city of Chicago Treasurer Melissa Conyears-Ervin and Mayor Lori Lightfoot have partnered to create a new Emergency Loan Program, with money from the Chicago Catalyst Fund, the City of Chicago and private sponsors.

Tease photo

Leading Dermatologic Experts Share Insights At Skin of Color Society’s 4th Annual Media Day

Dermatologic conditions and internal diseases present differently in individuals with darker skin, according to experts from the Skin of Color Society (SOCS), so it is important for people of color to see a board-certified dermatologist with special training in treating melanin-rich skin to properly diagnose and safely treat their concerns and disorders of the hair and skin.

Tease photo

Broadway Actor Dwayne Clark and His Children Launch Book Series that Shares Experiences of an African American Family

Actor Dwayne Clark, his 8-year old son DJ, and his 11-year old daughter Jada have launched a series of children’s books that portray life lessons from their family experiences to motivate young readers.

Tease photo

Congressman Rush hosts tele-townhall on Coronavirus

United States Congressman Bobby Rush, D-Dist. 1, hosted a telephone Town Hall meeting with his constituents to hear their concerns about the coronavirus, COVID-19.

Tease photo

Black Press of America Celebrates 193 Years of Freedom-Fighting Journalism

From Freedom’s Journal to The North Star to John Abbott’s Chicago Defender, African American-owned newspapers have sparked fires for truth and equality that have burned with the passion for fighting for freedom throughout history.

Tease photo

CITY PROVIDES EMERGENCY SHELTER FOR THE HOMELESS

As numbers of COVID-19 cases in the city of Chicago increase, Mayor Lori Lightfoot announced on Monday, March 23, two key measures to provide relief to hospitals and increase the capacity to aid in the city’s fight to prevent the spread of the virus. One of those measures involves the city’s homeless population.

All Vehicle Emissions Testing Stations Closed Until April 7

Illinois EPA Director John J. Kim recently announced the temporary closure of all vehicle emissions testing stations in Illinois.

Tease photo

Mom of Seven Opens A Consulting Helpline For Stressed Out Parents

Aerica Karriem, a Family Mediator and Relationship Coach expert, has taken an unprecedented step to launch Black Online Therapy dedicated to serving black families globally.

Tease photo

Pullman Community Center provides athletics and academics

The Pullman Community Center has become an important fixture in the year and a half since it opened. It began with a vision from 9th Ward Alderman Anthony Beale to build an indoor baseball facility, but the vision later mushroomed into the center it is today.

Pilot Launched to Connect SNAP Recipients to Jobs

The Illinois Department of Human Services (IDHS) has announced a partnership with private philanthropy and the National Able Network that will expand the number of organizations who can provide work and training resources for SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) recipients in Illinois.

Tease photo

Restaurant owner delivers meals to seniors

In the midst of COVID-19 and after Mayor Lori Lightfoot and Gov. J.B. Pritzker announced that restaurants and bars would be closed for dine-in patrons until March 30, business owners like Lewis Edwards, Jr., owner of I’m Soul Hungry, located on 2043 W. Howard St., stepped up to fill the gap.

Tease photo

REXY* PREMIERS NEW SINGLE AND VIDEO "HOW YOU FEEL"

Like most artists scheduled to release music during the Covid-19 pandemic, Bahamian artist & songwriter, REXY* had thoughts about whether it was still the right time. After surviving Hurricane Dorian which devastated the northern islands of The Bahamas, she knows a thing or two about pushing forward and shares, “Nothing has prepared us for what's happening globally with Covid-19. We've all had to shift and adjust but in some of the darkest times, the right song can energize you. With so much uncertainty & anxiety, people's desire to dance, sing, and share their creativity with the world is evident in the thousands of people who have been partying virtually and posting their version of dance challenges.