Local News

MAYOR LIGHTFOOT LAUNCHES FIRST PHASE OF $10 MILLION EQUITABLE TRANSIT-ORIENTED DEVELOPMENT PROGRAM

Mayor Lori E. Lightfoot and the Department of Planning and Development (DPD) has launched the first phase of the Equitable Transit-Oriented Development (ETOD) grant program, a $10 million initiative. This initiative, supported by funding from the Chicago Recovery Plan, will fund and support community- led, equitable development near train stations and high-frequency bus corridors.

BIDEN-HARRIS ADMINISTRATION LAUNCHES FIRST-OF-ITS-KIND $50 MILLION PROGRAM TO HELP NONPROFITS MAKE CRITICAL ENERGY UPGRADES

The Biden-Harris Administration, through the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE), released a Request for Information (RFI) seeking public comment on a new $50 million energy upgrade pilot program for nonprofits. Funded by President Biden’ s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, the Energy Efficiency Materials Program will help nonprofits purchase materials and implement building upgrades to decrease utility costs, create healthier community spaces and help reduce carbon emissions in commercial buildings.

State Legislators, Anti-Domestic Violence Advocates Highlight Need and Statewide Support for the Pretrial Fairness Act As Veto Session Begins

130+ organizations representing thousands of Illinoisans sent an open letter to legislators urging them to only pass amendments to the Pretrial Fairness portions of the SAFE-T Act that remain true to the promise of this historic racial justice legislation.

‘Stay Well HBCU Campus Tour’ aims to keep college students healthy this homecoming season

After two years of canceled events because of COVID-19, homecomings are back in-person at Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) across the country. To keep students and alumni healthy as they celebrate, the “Stay Well HBCU Campus Tour,” hosted by the “We Can Do This” campaign, which recently released the “On Point” TV spot as seen on CNN, will visit campuses in multiple states.

This the season to save. Eight tips to stretch your money this holiday shopping season.

Consumer purchasing power is more diverse than ever , with Black consumers as central drivers of seasonal spending. As you prepare your holiday shopping list – and your budget – remember, a little bit of planning can go a long way toward achieving a financially healthy holiday season. With the holiday shopping season upon us, here are eight essential money-saving tips:

City Treasurer, City Leaders, and the March of Dimes Honor Sigma Gamma Rho for 100 Years of Public and Community Service and Commitment to Empowering Communities by Education

City Treasurer Melissa Conyears-Ervin joined Mayor Lori E. Lightfoot, members of the Black Caucus, and representatives from the March of Dimes to honor one of the nation’s most historic Black Greek letter organizations, Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc., and to thank its 100,000 members for the contributions to Chicago’s – and the nation’s – African American communities for the past 100 years.

City Colleges of Chicago to Host Kwanzaa Celebration at Malcolm X College, Free and Open to the Public

Malcolm X College has a strong history of celebrating Kwanzaa and for more than 16 years. This year the celebration will begin at 10 a.m. and last until 6 p.m. on Tuesday, Dec. 27. A procession and drum call will be held at noon to begin the program. Event goers will enjoy live performances and shopping all courtesy of local artisans. The public is also sure to enjoy performances by, Najwa Dance Corps and Joan Collasco.

Governor Pritzker Releases Five-Year Forecast Showing Projected Long-term Budgetary Deficits Nearly

The Governor’s Office of Management and Budget (GOMB) released the annual Illinois Economic and Fiscal Policy Report showing under Governor Pritzker’s leadership Illinois is in its best fiscal shape in decades.

Cook County property tax bills are now online

Cook County’s Second Installment property tax bills have been posted at www.cookcountytreasurer.com, where bills can be viewed, downloaded and paid with no added surcharge.

Simmons holds People’s Legislative Council on gun violence

In an effort to proactively connect with 7th District individuals affected by gun violence and shape future legislation, State Senator Mike Simmons held a People’s Legislative Council on gun violence on Wednesday.

Chicago Scholars On Site event yields positive results

The Chicago Scholars hosted its first On Site College event since the pandemic. It was an opportunity for students who participate in Chicago Scholars, as well as students from other community organizations, to get in front of college recruiters.

Faith leaders highlight importance of Affordable Connectivity Program

Faith leaders are doing their part to ensure church members are informed about the Affordable Connectivity Program. Clergy members want people to be able to take advantage of the program, which could mean families who don’t have access can get access to the internet, and those that have access to the internet, can receive a discount.

Calumet City resident bring Sweet Potato Cakes to customers

Margaret “Phoebe” McBride has turned her family’s recipe for Sweet Potato Cakes into a business. McBride launched Phoebe’s Sweet Potato Cakes in 2018.

BLACK-OWNED SMALL BUSINESSES TO SHOWCASE THEIR PRODUCTS AT ONE OF A KIND SHOW

One of a Kind Show and Sale is an opportunity for small businesses to showcase and sell their unique products to people during four days. Attendees also are able to enjoy live entertainment and participate in activities. One of A Kind will take place Thursday-Sunday, Dec. 1-4, at The Mart, located at 222 W. Merchandise Mart Plaza.

STATE REPRESENTATIVE BOB RITA LEADS HUNDREDS OF RESIDENTS IN HONORING THE 102nd BIRTHDAY CELEBRATION OF A BEAUTIFUL SOUTHSIDE PIONEER

102-YEAR-OLD ELLEN BROWN DIXON WAS GRANTED HER WISH BY GOD TO LIVE LONG ENOUGH TO VOTE TO ELECT THE NATION’S FIRST AFRICAN AMERICAN PRESIDENT AND NOW CONSIDERS LIFE FULL OF “OVERTIME”