Friday, June 19
“BRONZEVILLE TRAIL” SOIL TESTING SCHEDULED BY COOK COUNTY DEPARTMENT OF ENVIRONMENT & SUSTAINABILITY
On Monday June 22, 2026, at 9:30 AM at 40th and State Street, Chicago, IL, the Cook County Department of Environment & Sustainability has scheduled environmental soil testing from the top of the Kenwood ‘L’ Embankment to get an idea of the condition of the soil after almost seventy years of non-passenger service. Contractors will hoist drilling and other equipment to the top of the embankment. This will represent the first physical manifestation that the Bronzeville Trail Development Project is in progress.
Chicago Members of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity Join African American Male Wellness Agency for 3rd Annual Black Men's Wellness Day
On Saturday, June 20, 2026, Chicago members of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity will join the African American Male Wellness Agency for a massive convening of health, wellness, and community resources in one of the most impactful single day men's wellness events in recent memory.
Wednesday, June 17
Thornton Township High School District 205 Deploys ZeroEyes AI Gun Detection and Intelligent Situational Awareness Technology
ZeroEyes, creators of the leading multi-analytics weapons detection and threat intelligence platform, today announced the deployment of its AI gun detection and intelligent situational awareness solution by Illinois’ Thornton Township High School District 205. The district has added ZeroEyes to its multi-layered safety program to help mitigate the threat of gun-related violence.
June is National Homeownership Month
June is National Homeownership Month, and the Illinois Housing Development Authority (IHDA), the state’s leading financier of affordable housing developments and homebuyer down payment assistance, is reminding residents about the tools and resources available to achieve the dream of homeownership in Illinois.
General Assembly Passes Giannoulias Measure Targeting Emerging Distracted Driving Threats from AI Wearable Technology
The Illinois General Assembly has approved legislation backed by Illinois Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias to modernize Illinois distracted driving laws by addressing the use of artificial intelligence smart glasses and other emerging technologies behind the wheel.
STOKE Shoes Launches Limited-Edition 2FIDDY Sneaker Honoring America's 250th Anniversary: RED WIDE & BLUE
As America prepares to celebrate its 250th birthday, STOKE Shoes is marking the historic milestone the only way it knows how: by building something for the men who keep the country moving.
(BPRW) TAVIS SMILEY” RANKED AS THE TOP-RATED TALK RADIO SHOW FOR PROGRESSIVE AUDIENCES IN AMERICA BY TALKERS MAGAZINE
(Black PR Wire) LOS ANGELES: SmileyAudioMedia, Inc. announced today that “Tavis Smiley,” the nationally syndicated radio talk show, ranked #14 (the highest-rated talk show hosted by an African American) on the “2026 TALKERS Heavy Hundred.” TALKERS (commonly referred to as “TALKERS magazine”) is America’s leading trade publication for the talk media industry. Last year, “Tavis Smiley” ranked #16. Since then, the show has expanded its national syndication onto almost 50 radio stations across the United States, including the country’s three largest radio markets.
FIELDS GOOD LAUNCHES COOKIES WITH BENEFITS, BACKED BY $1.8M FROM FEMALE FOUNDERS FUND
Fields Good, a new functional cookie brand founded by Ashley Fields, daughter of Debbi Fields (founder of Mrs. Fields Cookies), and Kim Anderson, debuts today with three ready-to-eat cookies designed to support focus, protein, and sleep without sacrificing taste or texture. Backed by a $1.8 million pre-seed round led by Female Founders Fund, the brand introduces a new kind of cookie: one that delivers the nostalgic, homestyle experience people love, with smart ingredients designed for how they want to feel. Pre-order is available today at fieldsgood.co.
CPS Magnet Schools Reach Record-Breaking National Honors for Academic Excellence
Chicago Public Schools (CPS) is celebrating a historic milestone as 10 magnet schools across the District have been named 2026 Schools of Excellence or Schools of Distinction by Magnet Schools of America (MSA). This achievement marks the highest number of CPS magnet schools ever to receive these prestigious national honors in a single year. In addition, a CPS magnet high school attained national recognition as a certified magnet demonstration school. Finally, one CPS principal has been recognized as the 2026 Regional VI Principal of the Year, representing a 12-state region across the Midwest.
ComEd to Provide $2.5 Million in Bill Relief to Help Small Businesses Offset Rising PJM Supply Costs
ComEd, together with its community partners, announced $2.5 million in new bill assistance that will soon be available to help eligible business customers cope with higher PJM supply costs during the summer. Backed by Exelon, ComEd’s parent company, this extension of last year’s Customer Relief Fund will offer a one-time, matching grant of up to $500 to eligible small- and medium-sized business customers located within ComEd’s northern Illinois service territory.
IL State Rep. Du Buclet Supports Balanced Budget that Invests in Working Families, Economic Growth, and Community Stability
State Rep. Kimberly Du Buclet, D-Chicago, supported a balanced Fiscal Year 2027 budget that protects essential services, strengthens Illinois’ economy, and makes targeted investments in working families, education, public safety, and health care.
$300M State-of-the-Art Hospital Coming To Chicago’s South Side
New hospital part of historic $1B community investment to improve health and wellness
Advocate Health Care marked a major milestone in its long-term commitment to Chicago’s South Side with the groundbreaking of a new, $300 million, state-of-the-art community hospital at the former U.S. Steel South Works site near the lakefront.
Rich Township High School District 227 Celebrates a Year of Growth, Opportunity, and Student Success
As the 2025–2026 school year comes to a close, Rich Township High School District 227 is celebrating a year of measurable academic progress, expanded college and career pathways, student achievement, community partnerships, and continued momentum across academics, athletics, activities, and the arts.
MY DAD: THE MAN: BLACK DAUGHTERS IN PRAISE OF THEIR FATHERS
Linda Johnson Rice, Melody Spann Cooper and Maggie Brown are among contributors.
At a time when the narrative around Black fatherhood too often centers on absence, My Dad: The Man: Black Daughters in Praise of Their Fathers tells a different and long overdue story. Arriving just in time for Father's Day 2026, this powerful anthology brings together 25 Black daughters to honor the 26 fathers who made them who they are — and in doing so, offers the world a portrait of Black fatherhood it has rarely seen. Visit https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0H3P3736V
PATTI LABELLE IS COMING TO HARD ROCK LIVE ON NOV 13
Patti LaBelle is coming to Hard Rock Live at Hard Rock Casino Northern Indiana on Friday, November 13,2026. Doors open at 7 p.m. Tickets go on sale this Friday, June 19th at 10 a.m. Central Time.
Chicago Nonprofit and Chick-fil-A South Loop Are Helping to Bring Free Vision Care to Chicago Kids
Just in time for summer, the Experiences That Matter Foundation (ETM Foundation) is partnering with Chick-fil-A South Loop for a week-long fundraiser from June 22–27, 2026, marking the official kickoff to the organization’s 2026 summer mobile vision clinic tour. A portion of proceeds from qualifying purchases — made via the Chick-fil-A mobile app or in-restaurant dining — will directly benefit their 2020 Perfect Vision Campaign, which provides free comprehensive eye exams and same-day prescription glasses to uninsured and underinsured children ages 3–18 across Chicago and surrounding communities.
United African Organization to Host Free Citizenship Clinic in Bolingbrook
The United African Organization (UAO) will host a free citizenship clinic on June 18 to help lawful permanent residents navigate the process of becoming U.S. citizens.
Happy Juneteenth!!!
Unless you grew up in Texas the concept of Juneteenth as a holiday was not a part of your experience growing up. Being from Tennessee I did not learn about Juneteenth until my most beloved friend, Margaret McCrumby, affectionately called Muff, shared with me the delight she experienced as a child growing up in Fort Worth. Texas in the 30’s and 40’s. Her whole countenance changed when she relayed the many stories retrieved from her memories of Juneteenth Celebrations. Her reflections were always about the wonderful experiences of food, entertainment, gifts, a day off from work, and a feeling of both the white and Black community coming together to celebrate that holiday as a unified community.
The Salvation Army Celebrates 88 Years of National Donut Day Across Chicagoland
The history behind the holiday — and why it began right here in Chicago
If you spotted free donuts in and around your neighborhood today, there's a story behind them that most Chicagoans don't know. National Donut Day exists because of The Salvation Army. The holiday traces back to the organization's female volunteers who served donuts to soldiers on the front lines of World War I and was formally established as an annual celebration in Chicago in 1938. Today, 88 years later, The Salvation Army marked the occasion with community celebrations across the Chicagoland area — right where it all began.
Tuesday, June 16
The Obama Presidential Center Unveils Official Portrait of President Obama and former First Lady Michelle Obama by internationally renowned artist Njideka Akunyili Crosby Weaving together archival i
The Obama Foundation unveiled the first official portrait of President and Mrs. Obama, painted by Njideka Akunyili Crosby. The painting is exhibited in the Museum's Hope and Change Lobby, a public space that requires no ticket.
National Summit in Chicago to Spotlight and Scale Solutions Expanding Access to Affordable, Nutritious Food
Applications Open for $100,000 Innovation Award Co-hosted by Food Systems for the Future Institute (FSFI), with Chef José Andrés serving as Honorary Co-Host, and organized in partnership with the Global Food Institute at George Washington University, the Harvard Food Law and Policy Clinic, The Food Trust, and the University of Illinois Chicago, the 2026 Grocery Retail for All Summit will convene national leaders to advance practical solutions that strengthen grocery retail and expand access to affordable, nutritious food in underserved communities across the United States.
Friday, June 12
Office of the Clerk of the Circuit Court Advises Public of Continued Courthouse Closure Due to Power Outages
Due to severe weather, courthouses remain closed because of ongoing power outages. The Bridgeview Courthouse, Markham Courthouse, and Branch Courts 35 & 38, located at 727 E. 111th St., Chicago, are closed today, June 12, 2026. All incarcerated defendants at Branch 35 & 38 may appear via Zoom from 26th and California.
Thursday, June 11
The Salvation Army Celebrates 88 Years of National Donut Day Across Chicagoland
If you spotted free donuts in and around your neighborhood today, there's a story behind them that most Chicagoans don't know. National Donut Day exists because of The Salvation Army. The holiday traces back to the organization's female volunteers who served donuts to soldiers on the front lines of World War I and was formally established as an annual celebration in Chicago in 1938. Today, 88 years later, The Salvation Army marked the occasion with community celebrations across the Chicagoland area — right where it all began.
Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson Introduces PAPATUI Luxury Cologne, A Prestige Fragrance Collection Crafted with Master Perfumers
The #1 Men's Skincare Brand at Target Introduces Prestige Fragrances without the Luxury Markup
PAPATUI, the award-winning men's care brand founded by Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson, announced the launch of PAPATUI Luxury Cologne, the brand's first fragrance collection. Building on the momentum of its rapidly growing grooming and skincare portfolio, including becoming the #1 men's skincare brand at Target, the collection introduces three signature scents crafted with world-class perfumers to bring prestige fragrance into men's everyday routines.
Commissioner Donna Miller & Cook County Board Held Domestic Relations
Cook County Commissioner Donna Miller was joined by her colleagues on the Cook County Board yesterday, June 10, 2026, for a Domestic Relations Hearing examining the challenges facing families navigating the domestic relations court system and exploring opportunities to strengthen coordination among County agencies and court partners.
HAZEL CREST SCHOOL DISTRICT 152½ CELEBRATES RECORD GROWTH YEAR MARKED BY ACADEMIC GAINS, IMPROVED SCHOOL CLIMATE, AND PROFOUND STUDENT EVOLVEMENT
As the 2025–2026 school year comes to a close, Hazel Crest School District 152½ is celebrating a year marked by measurable academic progress, strengthened student supports, operational improvements, and a renewed commitment to excellence across every level of the organization. Through the collective efforts of the Board of Education, district leadership, educators, staff, students, and families, the district has continued building momentum toward long-term success while creating meaningful opportunities for every learner to thrive.
Wednesday, June 10
MAYOR JADA D. CURRY & THE VILLAGE OF LYNWOOD SET TO CELEBRATE FATHER’S DAY WEEKEND WITH THE HIGHLY ANTICIPATED “LYNVINIA MUSIC FESTIVAL” FEATURING LIVE MUSIC, FOOD, AND FAMILY FUN
Mayor Jada D. Curry, alongside the Village Clerk and Lynwood Board of Trustees, is proud to invite residents and visitors from across the South Suburbs and Chicagoland region to attend the highly anticipated Lynvinia Music Festival on Saturday, June 20, 2026, from 3:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at Lake View Park, 19801 Lake Lynwood Drive, Lynwood, Illinois.
Illinois Recognizes Elder Abuse Awareness Day
June 15 is Elder Abuse Awareness Day. With reports of elder abuse on the rise in Illinois since 2022, Department on Aging (IDoA) Director Mary Killough, is reminding community members to learn the warning signs and speak up about suspected abuse of older adults.
Taste of Chicago Returns to Prime Summer Season This July with Free Live Music, Family Fun and Local Flavors
The Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events (DCASE) announces the return of Taste of Chicago, one of the world’s largest free-admission food festivals, July 8–12 for an expanded five-day celebration bringing residents and visitors together through acclaimed cuisine, live music and Chicago pride. From beloved neighborhood restaurants and emerging chefs to performances by globally recognized artists and family-friendly programming along the city’s iconic lakefront, Taste of Chicago 2026 will showcase the cultural diversity and creative energy that continue to make Chicago a premier culinary destination.
Three-Time State Champion Amauree Williams Caps Historic Southland Career
Southland's first male IHSA state champion ends his career as one of Illinois' premier hurdlers
Southland College Prep Charter High School senior Amauree Williams capped one of the most accomplished track and field careers in school history Saturday by winning two state championships at the IHSA Class 2A Boys Track and Field State Finals in Charleston.
Hurricane Preparedness Can Help Save Your Vacation and Your Backyard Barbeque
Vacation planning to a coastal area can be complicated, and an upcoming hurricane will definitely throw those plans off-course. The Illinois Emergency Management Agency and Office of Homeland Security (IEMA-OHS) recommends that you research vacation sites and reservation cancellation policies carefully.
(BPRW) SUNDIAL MEDIA & TECHNOLOGY GROUP NAMES CEDRIC J. ROGERS CHIEF PRODUCT & PLATFORM OFFICER
Sundial Media & Technology Group today formally announced the establishment of a Chief Product & Platform Officer role and the appointment of Cedric J. Rogers to lead this function. A former Apple executive and the Co-Founder of Culture Genesis, one of the largest Black-owned digital media networks, Rogers brings rare depth at the intersection of consumer technology, cultural media and creator ecosystems. He will drive product strategy, platform innovation, audience intelligence, monetization, and the continued evolution of Sundial’s SMART platform across its portfolio of brands - including ESSENCE, Refinery29, Beautycon, AFROPUNK, and the CreateHER Network.
Chicago State University Launches CQuEST Center, Opening Pathways to Careers at the Frontier of the Quantum Era
Chicago State University (CSU) proudly announces the launch of its CSU Quantum Education, Science and Technology Center (CQuEST), an Illinois Board of Higher Education (IBHE)-authorized hub that brings together the university’s quantum research, credentials, and workforce programs under a single, coordinated center on Chicago’s South Side.
In the final hours of 2026 Illinois Legislative Session… History Made as More Than 100,000 Rideshare Drivers Win Union Rights in Illinois, Rideshare Drivers’ Union Bill Heads to Governor Pritzker’s De
Landmark Illinois legislation builds on the momentum from the Massachusetts rideshare union victory and positions drivers across the country to organize for fair wages, safety protections, and dignity
In a historic moment for the nation’s labor movement and the State of Illinois, the Illinois Transportation Network Driver Labor Relations Act (HB 5090), also known as the Rideshare Drivers’ Union Bill, passed both chambers of the Illinois State Legislature this weekend, giving more than 100,000 rideshare drivers statewide the right to form a union. The legislation sponsored by State Senator Ram Villivalam and State Representative Yolonda Morris will now head to Governor JB Pritzker's desk and would establish one of the strongest frameworks in the country for rideshare drivers to organize and bargain collectively.
Cook County Treasurer Maria Pappas’ Historic Property Tax Sale Reform Legislation Passes in Illinois General Assembly
Sweeping property tax foreclosure reforms pushed by Cook County Treasurer Maria Pappas passed Saturday in the Illinois General Assembly and now head to the governor’s desk.
From Neighborhood Staples to Emerging Brands
Chicago Stars Awards Returns: Chicago Treasurer’s Office launches 2026 nominations to spotlight the small businesses driving neighborhood investment, local spending, and economic growth across the cit
As Chicago neighborhoods continue prioritizing local economic growth and community investment, the Office of Chicago City Treasurer Melissa Conyears-Ervin is proud to announce the return of the Chicago Stars Awards (CSA), a citywide initiative created to celebrate and support the entrepreneurs, storefronts, and emerging brands helping shape the future of Chicago’s economy. Nominations for the 2026 Chicago Stars Awards cohort officially open June 1, 2026, and will remain open through August 1, 2026.
ATTORNEY GENERAL RAOUL SUPPORTS STRONGER ONLINE PROTECTIONS
Attorney General Kwame Raoul joined a bipartisan coalition of attorneys general opposing the federal Kids Internet and Digital Safety Act (“KIDS Act”), arguing the bill would weaken states’ ability to protect children online while insulating technology companies from accountability.
Chicago Public Schools Crossing Guard of the Year Winners District Honors Five Outstanding Crossing Guards
Chicago Public Schools (CPS) today honored the more than 600 crossing guards who play a critical role in safeguarding students as they travel to and from school. The District’s annual Crossing Guard Appreciation Day recognized these individuals for their commitment to student safety and invaluable contributions to school communities.
FAITH LEADERS TO RECEIVE THE REV. JESSE L. JACKSON SR. FREEDOM & JUSTICE AWARD AT ANNUAL RAINBOW PUSH CONFERENCE IN CHICAGO
Rainbow PUSH announced on this past Thursday that it would honor three faith leaders during its annual national convention taking place June 10–13, 2026, at its headquarters in Chicago.
Here’s How One Lucky Illinoisan Will Control the Chicago Skyline in 2027
Open to all Illinois residents age 18 and older, the Building Owners and Managers Association of Chicago Foundation’s new Skyline Lighting Raffle is now live through Aug. 21. The raffle invites participants to purchase $25 tickets for a chance to design a custom skyline lighting display across downtown Chicago in 2027. The winning participant will work directly with BOMA/Chicago to create a meaningful lighting campaign celebrating a personal milestone, honoring a loved one, raising awareness for a cause—or maybe it’s just a favorite color.
Illinois DCFS celebrates national #1 ranking in kinship care; reports progress made in KIND Act implementation
State government leaders joined the Illinois Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS), the ACLU of Illinois, and community partners at a press conference at the Center for Youth and Family Solutions in Springfield today to highlight significant accomplishments and ongoing progress in implementing the Kinship in Demand (KIND) Act, landmark legislation signed into law by Governor JB Pritzker in 2025.
Tuesday, June 9
Anti-Violence Organization, Roseland Ceasefire, Holds 2nd Annual Fundraiser that Brings Multiple Generations Together for National Gun Violence Awareness Month
For 20 years, workers for the Roseland Ceasefire Project have walked the streets of Roseland, Pullman and West Pullman interrupting violence, providing jobs and offering social services to residents proactively in response to gun violence. Over the last two summers, however, the organization is having to do more with less as a result of President Donald Trump's cuts for gun violence prevention programs.
Harvey Park District Invites Families To Register For “Session 2” Of Highly Anticipated Annual Sumer Camp
The Harvey Park District is excited to announce that registration is now open for Session 2 of its Summer Fun Summer Camp, offering children an unforgettable summer filled with recreation, learning, friendship, and adventure. Families are encouraged to secure their child's spot now as enrollment remains open until Sunday, June 28th. Available spaces are expected to fill quickly.
Monday, June 8
Illinois' Health Equity Crisis Demands 340B Reform
This weekend, thousands of doctors gathered in Chicago for the country's largest oncology conference. The event happened just weeks after the host organization -- the American Society of Clinical Oncology -- endorsed the expansion of 340B, a federal drug discount program that large hospitals have transformed from a safety-net tool into a lucrative profit center.
BLACK GIRL WELLNESS FEST MAKES ITS HIGHLY ANTICIPATED CHICAGO DEBUT — EXPERT VOICES, CELEBRITY GUESTS AND CULTURAL ENERGY COME TOGETHER FOR TWO POWERFUL DAYS OF WELLNESS
Black Girl Wellness Fest, powered by Black Girl Vitamins, will take place in Chicago June 26–27, 2026 at the UIC Forum. The festival marks a significant moment in the Black women’s wellness space — bringing together medical professionals, mental health experts, lifestyle leaders, and cultural voices under one roof for a weekend expected to draw thousands of attendees.
Friday, June 5
Illinois Takes a Major Step to Protect Homeowners
Owning a home has long been the foundation of financial security for American families. It’s typically a person’s largest investment, one that represents hard work, sacrifice, and a chance to build generational wealth.
Thursday, June 4
Council Members Demand Answers After Public Safety Hearing Blocked by Procedural Maneuver
Members of the Chicago City Council expressed frustration after a scheduled hearing on the City's delayed procurement of gunshot detection technology was effectively shut down through a parliamentary maneuver on an unrelated matter by allies of Mayor Brandon Johnson, preventing testimony and robbing community members of public discussion.
Rich Township High School District 227 Celebrates a Year of Growth, Opportunity, and Student Success
As the 2025–2026 school year comes to a close, Rich Township High School District 227 is celebrating a year of measurable academic progress, expanded college and career pathways, student achievement, community partnerships, and continued momentum across academics, athletics, activities, and the arts.
Wednesday, June 3
Prattling of An Old Woman Part Two: Building the Future Together
In Part One, we explored the critical pillars of political engagement, economic empowerment, and health and wellness. Now we turn to the foundations that complete our blueprint: education, housing stability, social accountability, and the enduring spirit that has always carried us, as a people, forward.
SkyRose Empowering Gardens Foundation Provides A Platform To Empower Medical Professionals To Build Profitable Aesthetic Businesses
Dr. Chakika Williams said she got started in the aesthetics and wellness industry through her passion for healthcare, confidence restoration, and a desire to create opportunities for communities that are often overlooked in the Aesthetic business space.
Advocate Health Care builds on Neighborhood Care
Advocate Health Care builds on Neighborhood Care expansion, bringing network to six South Side sites this spring. New locations expand access to same-day care in trusted community spaces
Hope Chicago Celebrates First Wave of College Graduates Across Illinois
Hope Chicago today announced a major milestone: the organization’s first cohort of students and parents are completing debt-free college degrees and workforce credential programs across Illinois marking an important step in strengthening economic mobility, workforce opportunity, and long-term community prosperity for Chicago families.
BALLY’S CHICAGO LAUNCHES HIRING PUSH FOR FUTURE RIVERFRONT RESORT, EXPECTED TO CREATE 3,000 JOBS
Bally’s Chicago is expanding its hiring efforts as it builds toward its permanent riverfront resort, which is expected to create approximately 3,000 permanent jobs in Chicago. Following a major construction milestone at the site, the company is now focused on growing its team and identifying leaders who will help shape one of the city’s most significant new developments.
Illinois Drivers Hit With 18% Rate Hike Will Get Relief as Giannoulias’ Insurance Reform Bill Heads to the Governor
Illinois lawmakers passed sweeping auto insurance reforms that would give state regulators the power to challenge excessive rate hikes for the first time, ending Illinois’ status as one of only two states without such authority.
Illinois Advances Legislation to Get Cancer Patients the Right Treatment Faster
Cancer Advocates Applaud the State Legislature's Passage of Biomarker Testing Legislation, Ensuring Illinoisans Have Better Access to Personalized Care. SPRINGFIELD, IL – May 22, 2026 – The state legislature has passed Senate Bill 3509, which would improve access to biomarker testing, a game-changer in the fight against cancer and other conditions, and an essential step toward accessing precision treatments.
LOTTO Unveils 'Legends Begin with LOTTO' Global Campaign Ahead of Football's Biggest Global Stage
Iconic Italian sports and lifestyle brand LOTTO today announced the launch of its 2026 global brand campaign, 'Legends Begin with LOTTO,' debuting with a 90 second film directed by Anthony Mandler. Launching ahead of football's biggest global stage this summer, the campaign brings together a cross generational cast of athletes, tastemakers and cultural voices to sStructured as a cinematic relay, the film follows a soccer ball as it moves across generations, geographies and creative disciplines. Each pass represents a moment of connection, linking individuals through shared ambition, creativity and energy, and illustrating how ideas and influence travel across cultures.
Chicagoland Chamber of Commerce Urges General Assembly to Reject Digital Advertising Tax
The Chicagoland Chamber of Commerce urges the General Assembly to reject a proposed new tax on digital advertising in Illinois that would increase costs on small businesses, make it harder for businesses to reach customers, and ultimately raise prices for consumers.
Designate a “Water Watcher” this summer to prevent child drownings
As warm summer days approach and families gear up for backyard pool parties and trips to the beach, the Illinois Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS), Safe Kids Illinois and Lurie Children’s Hospital are teaming up to promote a simple life-saving strategy everyone can use to keep children safe when they are in or near water: designate a Water Watcher.
ATTORNEY GENERAL RAOUL URGES FUNDS TO REEVALUATE DECISION TO CUT OFF DONATIONS TO SOUTHERN POVERTY LAW CENTER
Attorney General Kwame Raoul, as part of a coalition of 15 attorneys general, urged several large donor-advised charitable fund sponsors to carefully evaluate their decisions to stop payments to the Southern Poverty Law Center (SPLC) following the Department of Justice’s (DOJ) highly controversial indictment of the SPLC. In a letter to the donor-advised fund sponsors, the coalition warns of the harm that could result from penalizing nonprofit organizations being targeted by the Trump administration for exercising their First Amendment rights.
Lookingglass Theatre Company presents Ice Cream Circus! 2026 in association with Actors Gymnasium June 2 – 7, 2026
Lookingglass Theatre Company presents Ice Cream Circus! 2026, a free, family-friendly theatrical event presented as part of the Chicago Park District’s Night Out in the Parks series. Created in association with Actors Gymnasium, Ice Cream Circus! tours parks across Chicago and Evanston June 2 – 7, 2026.
NEW NFIB SURVEY: Small Business Optimism Remains Below Average But Stable
The NFIB Small Business Optimism Index rose 0.1 points in April to 95.9, below its 52-year average of 98.0 for the second consecutive month. The Uncertainty Index fell 4 points from March to 88, remaining well above its historical average of 68.
2026 ESSENCE Festival of Culture® Presented by Coca-Cola® Reveals Night-by-Night Lineup Featuring Babyface, Leon Thomas, Public Enemy and George Clinton & Parliament-Funkadelic with Friends
The ESSENCE Festival of Culture® presented by Coca-Cola® returns to New Orleans July 3–5, 2026, unveiling its night-by-night Evening Concert Series lineup with newly announced performances from Babyface and Leon Thomas, joining a cross-generational mix of artists across hip-hop, R&B, soul, and funk at the Caesars Superdome. The announcement builds on previously revealed performers including Cardi B, Latto, Kehlani, Patti LaBelle, Brandy and Monica, Public Enemy, and George Clinton and Parliament-Funkadelic, who will celebrate 50 years of the Mothership landing in New Orleans with a collaborative performance featuring Big Boi, Scarface, Big Freedia, Nona Hendryx, and Durand Bernarr, with additional special moments to be revealed in the coming weeks.
Brookfield Zoo Chicago goes Jurassic with Dinos! summer experience
Dinosaurs are taking over Brookfield Zoo Chicago this summer with Dinos!, a summer adventure featuring more than 20 animatronic dinosaurs, hands-on activities, photo opportunities, themed food and merchandise and live programs for guests of all ages.
NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING
PUBLIC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN to all persons in the City of Calumet City, Cook County, Illinois that a public hearing will be held by the CALUMET CITY ZONING BOARD OF APPEALS on Wednesday June 24, 2026 at 6:00 p.m., in the Calumet City Hall Council Chambers, 204 Pulaski Road, Calumet City, IL 60409 relative to the following:
RAINBOW PUSH COALITION ANNUAL CONVENTION ANNOUNCES LINE-UP OF GREAT SPEAKERS, PANELISTS, AND HONOREES
The Rainbow PUSH Coalition will convene its annual conference June 10–13, 2026, at its Chicago headquarters located at 952 E. 50th St., Chicago, Illinois, drawing leaders, advocates, policymakers, and community members from across the nation for four days of dialogue, reflection, and action. This year, the convention requires no registration fee and is open to the public.
Monday, June 1
On Juneteenth, I’ll Celebrate Black Music at Andrew Jackson’s Plantation
This Juneteenth I will stand at the Hermitage and help celebrate Black music. The Hermitage was Andrew Jackson’s plantation, outside Nashville. I want to be honest about how strange that is.
Rainbow PUSH Mourns the Passing of Spencer Leak, Jr.
The Rainbow PUSH family mourns the passing of one of its own, Spencer Leak, Jr., a distinguished civic leader, businessman, philanthropist, and pillar of both Chicago's business community and the broader African American business community, whose impact will be felt for generations to come.
County, State and Local Officials Express Condolences To Fallen Long-Time Business Owner
Spencer Leak Jr devoted his life to lifting people in poverty, the marginalized, and those pushed to emotional distraught. However, his contributions could never be merely limited to his role of a funeral director. Through the family business, he pushed barriers and opened doors so people of excluded communities could step into opportunity and dignity. Spencer cast a bold vision of an inclusive society—uniting people across race, class, and faith to build power together and expand the table of economic opportunity.