Local News

Chicago’s A. Philip Randolph Porter Museum AKA the Pullman Porter Museum, to Celebrate its 31st Anniversary with Highly Anticipated A. Philip Randolph “Gentle Warrior Awards” Gala

The National A. Philip Randolph Pullman Porter Museum (NAPRPPM) proudly announces its signature fundraising event with the celebration of the Museum's 31st Founding Anniversary through the A. Philip Randolph “Gentle Warrior Awards” Gala. This highly–anticipated event will be held on Friday, February 20, 2026 at the Wintrust Grand Banking Hall, located at 231 S. LaSalle Street in Chicago, Illinois from 6:30 PM - 10:30 PM (CST). Celebrity co-hosts are Michelle Relerford of NBC 5 Chicago and iHeart Radio personality Marseil Jackson.

MAYOR BRANDON JOHNSON ANNOUNCES NEW RECORD OF NEARLY 13 MILLION SHARED BIKE AND SCOOTER TRIPS IN 2025

Mayor Brandon Johnson and the Chicago Department of Transportation (CDOT) announced that Chicagoans took 12.9 million trips on shared bikes and scooters in 2025, the highest annual total on record and nearly 2 million more trips than the previous year. This milestone, coming on the heels of record ridership in 2024, reflects growing demand for convenient, affordable transportation options and continued investment in shared micromobility and bike infrastructure citywide.

Gift of Hope sets record for life-saving organ and tissue donation in Illinois and Northwest Indiana for fourth year

Gift of Hope Organ & Tissue Donor Network announced today that 2025 marked another record year for organ and tissue donation across its service area, making an unprecedented impact on patients in need throughout northern three-quarters of Illinois and Lake County, Indiana.

ATTORNEY GENERAL RAOUL URGES CONSUMERS TO STAY WARM, STAY SAFE, AND WATCH OUT FOR UTILITY SCAMS THIS WINTER

Attorney General Kwame Raoul encourages consumers to beware of scammers pretending to be from a utility company and threatening to shut off heat if they do not receive a payment.

Prime Healthcare Expands Mission in Illinois with Franciscan Health Olympia Fields

Prime Healthcare today announced it has entered into an asset purchase agreement with Franciscan Alliance to acquire Franciscan Health Olympia Fields, further expanding Prime’s mission-driven presence in Chicagoland and reinforcing its commitment to preserving access to high-quality, compassionate care in communities that need it most.

On the Eve of Maternal Health Awareness Day, Cook County Launches “Healthy Beginnings” to Support Families Before, During, and After Pregnancy

Cook County Department of Public Health today launched the Healthy Beginnings maternal and child health program on the eve of Maternal Health Awareness Day. The Healthy Beginnings program will deliver home-based nursing care, case management, and wraparound services and support to pregnant individuals and their infants across suburban Cook County to reduce preventable maternal and infant illnesses and deaths.

Preston outlines measure to overhaul state’s tax sale system, stop predatory speculation

State Senator Willie Preston held a press conference Tuesday, Jan. 13, to outline his Property Justice and Community Recovery Act – long-term structural reform to stop wealth extraction from disinvested communities, which will in turn stabilize neighborhoods.

Ventura champions measures requiring car dealers to provide buyers with vehicle history report

State Senator Rachel Ventura introduced a new measure that would require car dealers to provide a vehicle history report to buyers with the purchase of any used car.

Remembering the Revolution: Lessons for Today

In Minnesota this winter, amid the steady stream of grim headlines out of Minneapolis, one story barely made it beyond Duluth’s city limits. The Duluth News Tribune and other regional outlets are inviting residents to dig into the city’s archives, retell old stories, and share plans for America’s upcoming 250th anniversary. Town halls are discussing parades. Local museums are planning exhibits. Families are marking the milestone in small, thoughtful ways.

Winter Jazz Fair Continues To Build Community Around Jazz Music

The Jazz Institute of Chicago was founded in 1969 by a group of musicians, jazz enthusiasts and journalists who wanted to ensure jazz would stay alive. With a mission to nurture and promote jazz in all its forms, in 1979, the organization started its Winter Jazz Fair. The Jazz Institute of Chicago will host its annual Winter Jazz Fair from 11:30 a.m. to 10 p.m. Friday, Feb. 20th, at the Chicago Cultural Center, located at 78 E. Washington St.

Author’s Book Reminds Black Boys They Are Loved

Dr. Kimberly Gordon Biddle was always interested in human behavior, thoughts and emotions. Gordon Biddle has a bachelor’s degree in psychology and music and a graduate degree in child and adolescent development.

Rich Auntie Trivia ™ Card Game Highlights Black Women

A trivia game recently launched, aimed at celebrating the brilliance of Black women and is meant to enhance historical and cultural knowledge, while creating conversation and building community.

Illinois Speaker Of The House Reflects On Political Journey

Illinois Speaker of the House Emanuel “Chris” Welch has served as Speaker for five years. He is the first Black Speaker of the House. Welch represents Illinois’ 7th House of Representatives District. It encompasses Broadview, Bellwood, Berkeley, Elmhurst, Forest Park, Hillside, Hinsdale, Oak Park, La Grange Park, Maywood, Oak Brook, River Forest, Westchester and Western Springs.

BOWA Gives Announces Two-Day Girls in Sports Summit in Chicago

BOWA Gives, an organization empowering the next generation of leaders - especially girls - through the transformative power of sport, mentorship, and career development, has announced plans for the annual Girls in Sports Summit, formerly the BOWA Gives Girls’ Invite. Members of the media are encouraged and welcome to attend.

CARLINVILLE GEARS UP FOR ROUTE 66 JUBILEE IN JUNE

This year marks the 100th anniversary of Route 66. One of the small towns along the route in Illinois is planning one of the largest celebrations.