Local News
The Third Cohort of the Governor’s Office Academy of Leadership (G.O.A.L.)
The Department of Central Management Services (CMS) and Governor JB Pritzker announced the participants selected for the 2025 cohort of the Governor’s Office Academy of Leadership (G.O.A.L.) program. The highly competitive program serves as a professional development opportunity for mid-level leaders across State government, reaffirming Illinois’ commitment to long-term operational success. Governor Pritzker joined the cohort virtually and shared words of support.
Southland College Prep Senior Scores 1,000th Career Point and Breaks School Scoring Record
Southland College Prep senior David Shaw scored his 1,000th career point on Friday during a basketball game against Lisle High School. Going into the game only eight points shy of scoring 1,000, Shaw made history on a two point fade away jumper in the second quarter after scoring two-three pointers earlier in the game.
Gov. Pritzker and Illinois EPA Announce the Next Round of EV Rebates for Illinois Residents
Governor JB Pritzker and the Illinois Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced the opening of the next round of funding for the Illinois Electric Vehicle (EV) Rebate Program. The General Assembly appropriated up to $14 million to Illinois EPA for the EV Rebate program for the current fiscal year. Rebates will be issued to eligible applicants subject to availability of funds.
Chicago Public Schools Launches Black Student Success Plan During Black History Month Celebrations
Chicago Public Schools (CPS) is celebrating Black History Month in February with a series of District-wide events and year-long initiatives, including the launch of the CPS Black Student Success Plan.
Innovative Affordable Housing Development Opens in East Garfield Park
Mayor Brandon Johnson and other community stakeholders joined Preservation of Affordable Housing (POAH) today to celebrate the completion and first move-ins at one of Chicago’s first and largest Passive Housing buildings.
Illinois Secretary of State Joins $106 Million Multi-State Settlement with Vanguard
Several thousands of Illinois residents are eligible to receive a share of a $106 million multi-state settlement with mutual fund investor company Vanguard, which is accused of failing to disclose tax implications of its retirement funds, Illinois Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias announced.
Gov. Pritzker Announces Launch of BEACON Children’s Behavioral Health Portal
Governor JB Pritzker and the Illinois Children’s Behavioral Health Transformation Initiative (CBHTI) announced the public launch of the BEACON (Behavioral Health Care and Ongoing Navigation) care portal, a centralized resource for Illinois youth and families seeking youth mental health services and care, including state agency support and community-based programs. BEACON is now live for use by Illinois residents and can be accessed at beacon.illinois.gov.
NAREB CELEBRATES ITS MOU PARTNERS AS THE BUILDING BLACK WEALTH TOUR KICKS OFF YEAR 2
The National Association of Real Estate Brokers (NAREB) celebrates the pivotal role of civic, religious, professional, and Divine Nine organizations contributing to the NAREB Building Black Wealth Tour. Following the success of the tour's wealth-building events in over 100 cities in 2024, the 2025 event slate is set to commence in Miramar, FL, on February 26. The 2nd National Black Wealth Day is scheduled for Saturday, April 12.
Nielsen exclusive report: inclusive, digital content drives Black audiences from reach to conversion
Black audiences spend 32 hours on apps and websites on their smartphones and tablets—two hours more than the total U.S. population, according to the latest exclusive Nielsen's Diverse Intelligence Series report Engaging Black audiences: How brands impact, grow and win with inclusion. As Black consumers continue to be digital trendsetters, brands' must finetune their approach to engaging with this audience in order to drive long-term connections.
Rep. Manley Joins Neighbor in Supporting Stepping Stones' New Recovery Home for Women & Children
When Joliet resident Chris Springer sought ways to help others this past holiday season, she turned to her neighbor, State Rep. Natalie Manley, (D-Joliet), for suggestions. That’s when Springer and her family decided, rather than buying Christmas gifts for themselves, to spend their money on donations to the upcoming Stepping Stones’ Recovery Home for Women & Children.
After a Year of Significant Growth, Pronghorn Welcomes New President Ron Cole
In 2024, Pronghorn made significant progress towards reaching its 10-year goal to place 1,800 Black candidates in industry roles, investing in 57 Black-owned spirits brands, and creating $2.4 billion in economic value by 2032. As Pronghorn continues to accelerate its pursuit of economic & industry impact, they are excited to announce the appointment of Ron Cole as the Company's new President.
OCTOBER LONDON AND TAMAR BRAXTON PRESENT "THE OCTOBER NIGHTS: CALLING ALL LOVERS" TOUR WITH SPECIAL GUEST, RO JAMES
Get ready for an unforgettable experience as Grammy-nominated artist October London and platinum-selling Grammy-nominated powerhouse Tamar Braxton, two of the most dynamic voices in contemporary R&B, announce their highly anticipated 24-city "The October Nights: Calling All Lovers" Tour. Produced by Black Promoters Collective (BPC), the tour promises to deliver an extraordinary celebration of music, culture, and passion, with a unique blend of soulful melodies, emotive storytelling, and high-energy performances. With stops in some of the country's most iconic cities, this tour is a journey through the best contemporary R&B.
Illinois State Treasurer Recognizes Chicagoans During Black History Month
Local elected officials and community stakeholders, as well as business leaders, were recently celebrated for their achievements and contributions by Illinois State Treasurer Michael Frerichs.
Culinary Arts Organization Provides Opportunities For High School Students
High school students interested in the culinary arts have the opportunity to enroll in camps hosted by the Foundation for Culinary Arts.
