Local News
Chicago Department of Public Health Advises All Chicagoans to Ensure They Are Protected Against Measles as Cases Rise Across the United States
As of March 14, a total of 301 measles cases were reported in 2025 across 15 jurisdictions in the United States, including two deaths, the first U.S. measles deaths in over a decade. To date, no case of measles has been identified in Chicago or Illinois in 2025.
THE ONE OF A KIND SPRING SHOW + SALE® RETURNS TO THE MART APRIL 25-27 SHOWCASING OVER 350 OF THE NATION’S TOP ARTISTS, MAKERS & DESIGNERS
The One of a Kind Spring Show + Sale® will return in full bloom to the 7th floor of THE MART this April, featuring over 350 of the nation’s most talented creators together under one roof. Friday, April 25 through Sunday, April 27, thousands of art-loving shoppers will flock to the historic venue for an action-packed weekend filled with an impressive selection of original, handcrafted work, live music by talented local musicians, hands-on art workshops, interactive experiences including a fresh floral market and more. The show offers the perfect opportunity for those looking to refresh their Spring style, discover unique gifts for any occasion, tap into their creativity and connect with the nation’s top makers in their craft or simply enjoy a beautiful Spring weekend in the heart of the city. Tickets, exclusive show totes and ticket bundles are now on sale via the show website.
Taste of Iceland Festival Kicks Off U.S. Tour in Chicago, April 3-5
Taste of Iceland 2025, organized by Inspired by Iceland, returns to Chicago, III., Thursday-Saturday, April 3-5. The cultural festival celebrates the land of fire and ice with events across the city showcasing the best of Icelandic culture, including food, music, nature, literature, art and design, wellness, and more.
Just Do It!
I am not a betting woman, but I bet that those of you reading this column now—and have read it before—DO NOT have an estate plan. I am so confident in this that I’d be willing to put up a wager for everyone who presents their estate plan to me.
Op Ed: Black Press and Black Church Unity Targeting TARGET
For over 198 years the Black Press and the Black Church have joined together for causes of freedom, justice, equality, equity, and empowerment. Today more than ever before there is renewed urgency for the Black Church and the Black Press to publicly amplify our mutual interests to protect and maintain the hard-fought gains and progress that has been accomplished by African Americans in the last two centuries.
The Alzheimer’s Association Illinois Chapter Hosts the Third Annual African American Conference
The Alzheimer’s Association Illinois Chapter is proud to announce the Third Annual African American Conference, Release the Silence: Navigating the Caregiving Journey. This free, community-centered event will take place on Saturday, May 3, 2025, from 9:30 AM to 1:30 PM (Doors open at 8:30 AM) at Greenwood Oasis, 7621 S Greenwood Ave, Chicago, IL 60619.
Brown Sugar Bakery Brings the Love
Stephanie Hart, owner of the Brown Sugar Bakery, bakes cakes that reminds people of their loved ones. Her Caramel, Red Velvet, German Dark Chocolate and Pineapple Coconut Cakes reference a nostalgia for people who come into her Chatham store, and those who order her cakes to have them shipped across the country.
Premium Candy Maker Gets Boost From The Illinois Made Program
Jana Farmer began Ms. Jana’s Candy when she was 67 years old, making the peanut brittle she made for her mother. After her mother passed, she would make the peanut brittle and think of her mother. She got so good at it that she began sending it to family members.
Artificial Intelligence Is Being Used To Detect Speech Disorders In Children
As Artificial Intelligence gains popularity, the technology is being applied to detect speech disorders in children. Experts say using the technology in this way can also improve accessibility to screenings and make them more efficient, which is helpful to families in marginalized communities who might not have access to those kinds of screenings. Experts also point toward earlier diagnoses as being helpful for children to receive critical interventions.
Local Opera Singer Performs In “The Listeners” Production
Nicole Heaston grew up singing. The Chicago native was in the Chicago Children’s Choir and attended Kenwood Academy for high school, where Dr. Lena McLin was her choral teacher. When McLin heard Heaston sing, she told her that she was really a soprano and an opera singer. She then showed Heaston photos of Black opera singers and told her that she was one of them.
South Chicago Dance Theatre Preparing For Its 8th Season
Kia S. Smith founded the South Chicago Dance Theatre in 2017, because she was really proud of her upbringing on the South side. She always wanted to be a dancer and have a dance company. She went to college and afterwards pursued a career in dance.
Chicago Urban League Honors Public Servants and Renames Building for James W. Compton
The Chicago Urban League hosted its 3rd Annual Reception Honoring Public Servants on Monday, March 24, 2025, at its headquarters, bringing together civic leaders, community members, and public officials to celebrate distinguished individuals who have dedicated their careers to advancing equity, opportunity, and social justice.
Commissioner Samantha Steele Strengthens Fairness and Accessibility for All Who Pay Property Taxes to Cook County
Cook County’s 2nd District residents continue to benefit from the leadership of Cook County Board of Review Commissioner Samantha Steele, who has served on the Board since 2022. With 20 years of experience in property valuations and a deep commitment to public service, Steele continually works to ensure that taxpayers have a fair, transparent, and accessible property tax appeals process.
“In Defense of Mac Properties”
In the Biblical spirit of speaking out for truth and justice, I come to the reputational defense of Mac Properties, which was accused in a recently filed lawsuit of systemic discrimination against prospective renters holding Housing Choice Vouchers – formerly known as Section 8 vouchers.
