ATN

By William S. Bike

Editor’s note: At press time, future events listed in Around the Neighborhood still were scheduled, but changes are happening on a daily basis due to the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic. Check websites or call before going out in case events have been postponed or canceled.

ANTI-RACISM RESOURCES

Local resident Richard Alvarez has created an anti-racism resources website at https://antiracism-resources.com. You also can find his resource list at www.gazettechicago.com.

ART INSTITUTE NEWS

The Art Institute of Chicago is scheduled to present the exhibition Monet and Chicago during the summer through Monday, Sept. 7, at 111 S. Michigan Ave. Log on to www.artic.edu.

BENTON HOUSE INFO

At Benton House,3052 S. Gratten Ave., find out about public benefits such as supplemental nutrition assistance and citizenship application help. Call (773) 927-6420 or email info@bentonhouse.org.

BOULEVARD NEWS

The Boulevard of Chicago at 3456 W. Franklin Blvd. provides medical respite care and housing services for homeless adults discharged from area hospitals. Call (773) 533-6013 or log on to www.blvd.org.

BUCKNER RESOURCES

Residents who want to share their thoughts or require assistance on coronavirus or any issue in the community can reach the office of State Rep Kam Buckner (D-26th) at (773) 924-1755 or by email at Buckner@Illinois26.com.

SCHOLARSHIPS AVAILABLE

The Chicago Department of Family and Support Services reports that Community Services Block Grant Scholarships are available for those enrolled or planning to enroll in college or vocational training. Contact Jenny Schuler at jenny.schuler@cityofchicago.org or (312) 746-7291.

NURSE CONSORTIUM NEWS

The Chicago Bilingual Nurse Consortium helps foreign-educated nurses attain licensure in Illinois. 

National Council Licensure Examination predictor tests are available to demonstrate probability of passing the nursing exam.

The organization’s website at www.chicagobilingualnurse.org also lists jobs available for nurses. For more information, call (773) 838-1870.

CITY NEWS

City of Chicago emergency rental assistance is available for people suffering financial hardship. Call 311 or use a search engine to find City of Chicago Family & Support Services online.

The City has passed legislation to make June 19 an official celebration of Juneteenth from now on. That is the day in 1865 when Union troops began enforcing the end of slavery.

NEW CAC BOSS

Chicago Artists Coalition (CAC) announced that Teresa Silva, currently CAC’s director of exhibitions and residencies, has been selected as its new executive and artistic director. CAC is located at 2130 W. Fulton St. Call (312) 491-8888.

GET ORGANIZED

Community Organizing and Family Issues,2245 S. Michigan Ave., (312) 226-5141, organizes and trains parents to win improvements in schools and communities and in how to create organizations and programs. See cofionline.org.

CCT NEWS

Check out Chicago Children’s Theatre,100 S. Racine Ave., any evening from 7 to 11 p.m. to see a larger-than-life, multi-color, bright new window installation that changes the colors of the rainbow around the life-affirming message “Everything will be okay.”  Chicago Children’s Theatre staff and artists created, programmed, and installed the window display using paper, stencils, and LED lights pulled from the theater’s existing production stock. See a related music video at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=V0JBp0LtbNM. 

CCT also offers virtual theatre and learning for youngsters ages two through 13.

For information, call (773) 227-0180 or log on to chicagochildrenstheatre.org.

PARK DISTRICT ACTIVITIES

The Chicago Park District will offer a modified version of its popular summer day camp, from Monday, July 6, through Friday, Aug. 14, at 148 parks across the city. Families also will have the option of registering for a two-week extended camp that runs Monday, Aug. 17, through Friday, Aug. 28. Campers will engage in STEAM (science, technology, engineering, art, and math) activities, reading, and journal writing as well as modified sports and outdoor activities that observe social distancing and other public health guidance. Financial assistance is available for families who qualify. In addition to day camp, the district will offer a menu of virtual programs to keep residents active while at home. Offerings include sports, wellness, arts and crafts, and fitness programs. For more information, log on to www.chicagoparkdistrict.com.

CMI RESOURCES

The Crisis Management Institute (CMI) works with schools and parents after a tragedy, such as a shooting or national event like the Sept. 11, 2001. To deal with issues related to coronavirus, the CMI launched several websites. One has resources for school counselors, counselors.cmionline.com; a second is for parents, parents.cmionline.com; and a third serves children and their parents, resources-for-kids-during-covid19. Parents can access several children’s books by Marla Koch to help children deal with quarantine by using the resources tab of the parents’ website. For more information, log on to www.cmionline.org or call (503) 585-3484.

DE LA SALLE NEWS

The International Thespian Society is an internationally recognized theatre honor society for high school students. De La Salle Institute welcomed 13 students into the Thespians this year: Kira Cannon, Kaitlyn DeFoe, Quinn Deighan, Layla Dulaitis (Bridgeport), Ariana Hernandez (Pilsen), Amilia Isais (Near West Side), Noelle Johnson, Desmond Jones, LeeVonn Overton, Alicia Plebanski, Sebastian Solis, Dorothy Tillman, (Bronzeville), and Erin Williams.

De La Salle’s French Honor Society held its induction and cording ceremony via Zoom. Earning membership were Mackenzie Capers, Pamela Gonzalez, Sofia Leanos, and Luz Perez.

The Spanish National Honor Society inducted 17 students: Matthew Chavez, Cariana Cintron, Ivy Delgadillo, Mackenzie Gioia, Ian Hopkins, Jacob Lopez, Jill McManus, Maggie Swanborn, Isabella Brogan, Chelsea Guardiola, Olivia Hernandez, Ivan Martinez, Gianna Pawela, Olivia Perez, Rosa Perez, Monce Vazquez, and Amanda Zavala.

De La Salle named Victor DeAvila and Emily McManus the winners of the annual George Eastman Young Leaders Award based on their leadership skills and excellence in the classroom.

The school chose Cameron Laviste and Kayla Roman-Flores as recipients of the Xerox Award for Innovation and Technology.

The 2020 Mock Trial Team recently conducted its awards ceremony for this season. Jonathan Valenzuela earned the Founding Fathers Award for his accomplishments, dedication, and success over the years. Nadiyah Muhammad will serve as president of the Mock Trial Team for the 2020-21 school year, with Judith Hernandez serving as vice president.

The Greenwood Project named recent graduate Joshua Thornton a Scholar. The organization is a nonprofit committed to changing the lives of socio-economically disadvantaged youth by exposing, training, and immersing them in careers in the financial securities sector.

De La Salle chose Alexandra Brist and Jonathan Valenzuela as winners of the Frederick Douglass and Susan B. Anthony Award. The school selects recipients based on demonstrated commitment to understanding and addressing difficult social issues, leadership, dedication to community action, and strong grades and rigorous courses taken in the humanities and social sciences.

Thomas Haepp of Canaryville received the John Philip Sousa Band Award for being most outstanding musician in the senior class. 

Michael Passarelli and Autumn Rizzo won the Br. I. Austin Scholar-Athlete Award, which goes to two members of De La Salle’s graduating class for excellence in the classroom and on the playing field. Rizzo played on the softball and bowling teams while Passarelli played football and baseball.

Nina Penny and Isaiah Hernandez earned the Bausch-Lomb Award, presented to graduating seniors who excel in science.

Jamey Duncan-Whitt’s poetry won the De La Salle quarterly writing contest.

Shiwen (Cecilia) Yang and Marc Rhymes won the Kamaal Khazen Award, presented annually to graduating seniors who excel in science and mathematics.

The City of De La Salle functions as the school’s student government. The group’s leadership consists of co-mayors Sydni Schaffer and Matthew Chavez; executive officers Nicole Beach, Autumn Bell, Travis Cunningham, Frank Galvan, MacKenzie Gioia, Pamela Gonzalez, Aaliyah Johnson, Desmond Jones, and Gabrielle Thornton; secretary Felicity Sierra; and aldermen Daria Foster, Mia Loza, Mia Nunez, and Christina Wilson.

De La Salle is located at 3434 S. Michigan Ave. Call (312) 842-7355.

LEGAL AID 

First Defense Legal Aid, located at 5100 W. Harrison St., provides representation to people in custody, informs people of their rights, and organizes volunteers to help.

For more information, call (800) 529-7374.

GIVE BLOOD 

The Illinois Coalition of Community Blood Centers encourages people to give blood. Contact Vitalant at www.vitalant.org or (877) 258-4835 to schedule a donation time. For more information, log on to www.illlinoisbloodcenters.com.

GLESSNER NEWS

Glessner House has opened a courtyard that allows pedestrians to look through the windows into its schoolroom, main hall, parlor, and kitchen. The courtyard is open 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. 

After the State and City lift stay-at-home directives, explore architecture, history, and design at Glessner House. Tours will be offered Wednesday through Sunday at 11:30 a.m., 1 p.m., and 2:30 p.m. In the meantime, take a virtual tour or, for information, visit GlessnerHouse.org. 

The house is located at 1800 S. Prairie Ave. Call (312) 226-1480.

GBMA HELP

Greater Bridgeport Mutual Aid, a network of more than 150 volunteers, has organized to provide free grocery delivery, direct people to resources and information through a telephone hotline, provide digital enrichment for students during remote learning, and do neighbor support check-ins. The network serves the Bridgeport, Chinatown, Armour Square, and Canaryville neighborhoods. Services are available in English, Spanish, Mandarin, and Cantonese. Request services on the group’s website at www.gbmachicago.org or by calling or texting the group’s hotline at (312) 818-1393. Donations are welcome by emailing GBMA through the organization’s website.

GWTP JOB TRAINING

Greater West Town Partnership, 500 N. Sacramento Blvd.,offers job placement and training programs in wood products manufacturing and shipping and receiving. Call (312) 563-9570.

HR HOTSEAT

HRHotSeat Chicago is a free monthly online meetup of more than 1,600 human resources practitioners, service providers, students, and Chicago-area professionals in job transition who come together to expand networks and solve problems. Visit www.HRHotSeat.com or email info@hrhotseat.com for a calendar of upcoming events.

LOW-COST INTERNET

Internet Essentials makes it possible for people receiving public assistance to qualify for low-cost internet service. Log on to internetessentials.com.

LADIES OF VIRTUE

Ladies of Virtue,1245 S. Michigan Ave., (877) 565-7121, provides mentoring and leadership and empowering experiences, including help with school applications, for girls ages nine through 18 from underserved communities. Log on to lovchicago.org.

LATINO UNION

Latino Union of Chicago collaborates with low-income workers to improve their social and economic conditions through employment opportunities. Log on to latinounion.org or call (312) 491-9044. For those looking to hire workers, call (773) 588-2641.

MERCY NEWS

Mercy Home for Boys & Girls seeks adults to be mentors for youngsters. Learn more at MercyHome.org/ChicagoGazette.

Call (312) 738-7560 or log on to www.mercyhome.org.

MERIT ONLINE CLASSES

Merit School of Music has reworked its summer offerings to allow students to experience Merit’s camps, classes, electives, and workshops while staying safe and healthy at home through online camps and classes. Merit’s summer lineup offers a wide variety including sound engineering, songwriting, voice camp, and intro to piano classes. In addition to offering financial aid to qualifying families, Merit has raised money for a COVID relief discount for families whose finances are affected by the coronavirus (COVID-19). Browse classes and register at www.meritmusic.org/summer.

OUTDOOR MARKET

The Pilsen Community Market will be held in Plaza Tenochtitlán, 1821 S. Blue Island Ave. from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. every Sunday.

RENTERS’ SERVICES

The Lawyers Committee for Better Housing provides eligible renters with supportive services and free legal aid. The LCBH also offers Rennie the Chatbot at rentervention.com to help with people’s housing problems. The LCBH is located at 33 N. LaSalle St. Call (312) 347-7600 or log on to www.lcbh.org.

RUSH GENERATIONS

Rush Generations, a health and aging program, offers classes, screenings, support groups, and other programs for older adults and caregivers. Depending on Illinois Department of Health guidelines, Rush may offer the following programs virtually. For information and to register, call (800) 757-0202. 

If you are age 60 or older, Wellness Recovery Action Plan (WRAP) for Seniors is a free, four-week program that can help you get well, stay well, and make life the way you want it to be. It’s designed to give you tools to reduce stress and anxiety, stay happier and healthier, build on your personal strengths, and feel more hopeful, confident, and engaged. WRAP meets on Fridays, July 17 through Aug. 7, from 12:30 to 3:30 p.m.

Take Charge of Your Diabetesis a free, six-week workshop for people with Type 2 diabetes. Endorsed by the American Diabetes Association, this program will help you build skills and gain confidence in managing your health and leading an active, fulfilling life. It meets on Tuesdays, July 14 through Aug. 18, from 2 to 4:30 p.m.

SHRINE NEWS

The Shrine of Our Lady of Pompeii is posting a novena daily during the coronavirus pandemic at www.ourladyofpompeii.org/special-covid-19-novena/.

The Summer Spirituality Series will feature Praying with St. Mary Magdalene, Apostle to the Apostle, Saturday, July 18, 10 to 11:30 a.m., led by Julie Berggren, spiritual director. 

All events are subject to cancelation, postponement, or transfer to a virtual format.

The shrine has begun offering Masses and other services in its worship space. You must register to attend.

The shrine is at 1224 W. Lexington St. Call (312) 421-3757 or log on to www.ourladyofpompeii.org.

FARMERS MARKET ONLINE 

The South Loop Farmers Market online marketplace is open for new orders of produce, meat, eggs, bread, baked goods, specialty foods, plants, beer, and other products every Friday at 9 a.m. Vendors will pack your order and have it ready for pickup on the following Thursday between 2 and 6 p.m. at Second Presbyterian Church, 1936 S. Michigan Ave. Pickup fee is $10. During pickup, customers will come to the parking lot of Second Presbyterian Church and form a line outside the church’s back door. Customers must wear a mask and follow all social distancing and safety precautions. The market also will deliver to select buildings. Sign up at www.southloopfarmersmarket.com/slfm-direct.

ST. MATTHEW NEWS

St. Matthew’s Lutheran Church at 2108 W. 21st St. recently benefited from a Lutheran Early Response Team (LERT) visit from St. Matthew’s Lutheran Church in Hawthorn Woods, IL. Seven LERT volunteers removed a tree stump, cleaned the church grounds, painted a restroom, and washed the soup kitchen’s floor, chairs, and tables. St. Matthew’s soup kitchen, Comedor San Mateo, is in need of monetary and product donations in light of the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic. For more information, call (773) 847-6458.

By William S. Bike

Editor’s note: At press time, future events listed in Around the Neighborhood still were scheduled, but changes are happening on a daily basis due to the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic. Check websites or call before going out in case events have been postponed or canceled.

ART INSTITUTE NEWS

The Art Institute of Chicago is scheduled to present the exhibition Monet and Chicago during the summer through Monday, Sept. 7, at 111 S. Michigan Ave. Log on to www.artic.edu.

ANTI-RACISM RESOURCES

Local resident Richard Alvarez has created an anti-racism resources website at https://antiracism-resources.com.

BENTON HOUSE INFO

At Benton House,3052 S. Gratten Ave., find out about public benefits such as supplemental nutrition assistance and citizenship application help. Call (773) 927-6420 or email info@bentonhouse.org.

BOULEVARD NEWS

The Boulevard of Chicago at 3456 W. Franklin Blvd. provides medical respite care and housing services for homeless adults discharged from area hospitals. Call (773) 533-6013 or log on to www.blvd.org.

BUCKNER RESOURCES

Residents who want to share their thoughts or require assistance on coronavirus or any issue in the community can reach the office of State Rep Kam Buckner (D-26th) at (773) 924-1755 or by email at Buckner@Illinois26.com.

NURSE CONSORTIUM NEWS

The Chicago Bilingual Nurse Consortium helps foreign-educated nurses attain licensure in Illinois.

National Council Licensure Examination predictor tests are available to demonstrate probability of passing the nursing exam.

The organization’s website at www.chicagobilingualnurse.org also lists jobs available for nurses. For more information, call (773) 838-1870.

CCT NEWS

Check out Chicago Children’s Theatre,100 S. Racine Ave., any evening from 7 to 11 p.m. to see a larger-than-life, multi-color, bright new window installation that changes the colors of the rainbow around the life-affirming message “Everything will be okay.”  Chicago Children’s Theatre staff and artists created, programmed, and installed the window display using paper, stencils, and LED lights pulled from the theater’s existing production stock. See a related music video at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=V0JBp0LtbNM.

CCT also offers virtual theatre and learning for youngsters ages two through 13.

For information, call (773) 227-0180 or log on to chicagochildrenstheatre.org.

SCHOLARSHIPS AVAILABLE

The Chicago Department of Family and Support Services reports that Community Services Block Grant Scholarships are available for those enrolled or planning to enroll in college or vocational training. Contact Jenny Schuler at jenny.schuler@cityofchicago.org or (312) 746-7291.

RENTAL ASSISTANCE

City of Chicago emergency rental assistance is available for people suffering financial hardship. Call 311 or use a search engine to find City of Chicago Family & Support Services online.

LABOR LAW SEMINARS

The City of Chicago Department of Business Affairs and Consumer Protection is offering webinars on topics such as minimum wage, fair workweek, and paid sick leave on every Tuesday and Thursday in June at 2 p.m. Log on to www.chicago.gov/laborstandards.

GET ORGANIZED

Community Organizing and Family Issues, 2245 S. Michigan Ave., (312) 226-5141, organizes and trains parents to win improvements in schools and communities and in how to create organizations and programs. See cofionline.org.

CMI RESOURCES

The Crisis Management Institute (CMI) works with schools and parents after a tragedy, such as a shooting or national event like the Sept. 11, 2001. To deal with issues related to coronavirus, the CMI launched several websites. One has resources for school counselors, counselors.cmionline.com; a second is for parents, parents.cmionline.com; and a third serves children and their parents, resources-for-kids-during-covid19. Parents can access several children’s books by Marla Koch to help children deal with quarantine by using the resources tab of the parents’ website. For more information, log on to www.cmionline.org or call (503) 585-3484.

DE LA SALLE NEWS

Twenty young women and men from the De La Salle Institute Class of 2020 have chosen where they will further their educations next year while participating in intercollegiate athletics. Hockey: Gabe Galvez (Robert Morris University); softball: Erianna Claudio (Triton College), Kamryn Gonzalez (La Sierra University), and Alyssa Luna (St. Thomas University–Florida); baseball: Matthew Boehm (Lewis University), Jeremy Figueroa (Heartland Community College), Ben Hernandez (University of Illinois at Chicago), Isaiah Hernandez (Inspiration Academy), Lee Hodges (Morton College), and William LePretre (Millikin University); football and baseball: Michael Passarelli (Illinois Wesleyan University); football: Matthew Byrnes (Iowa Western Community College), Jamari Johnson (Eastern Illinois University), Taron Dabney (University of Indianapolis), and Devonne Phams (Concordia University–Wisconsin); football and wrestling: David Ortiz (Elmhurst College); girls volleyball: Nina Penny (Indiana Tech) and Nyiah Penny (Indiana Tech); boys soccer: Cristian Granados (Lewis University) and Manny Rodriguez (Saint Xavier University).

De La Salle has chosen Francesca Castagna as the new head coach for the Meteors varsity girls’ softball program. She has been an assistant softball coach the last two seasons.

De La Salle is located at 3434 S. Michigan Ave. Call (312) 842-7355.

LEGAL AID SCHOLAR

First Defense Legal Aid intern Charles Jones III has earned a summer 2020 Mansfield Scholarship at Roosevelt University.

Located at 5100 W. Harrison St., the organization provides representation to people in custody, informs people of their rights, and organizes volunteers to help.

For more information, call (800) 529-7374.

GLESSNER NEWS

Glessner House has opened a courtyard that allows pedestrians to look through the windows into its schoolroom, main hall, parlor, and kitchen. The courtyard is open 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

After the State and City lift stay-at-home directives, explore architecture, history, and design at Glessner House. Tours will be offered Wednesday through Sunday at 11:30 a.m., 1 p.m., and 2:30 p.m. In the meantime, take a virtual tour or, for information, visit GlessnerHouse.org.

The house is located at 1800 S. Prairie Ave. Call (312) 226-1480.

GBMA HELP

Greater Bridgeport Mutual Aid, a network of more than 150 volunteers, has organized to provide free grocery delivery, direct people to resources and information through a telephone hotline, provide digital enrichment for students during remote learning, and do neighbor support check-ins. The network serves the Bridgeport, Chinatown, Armour Square, and Canaryville neighborhoods. Services are available in English, Spanish, Mandarin, and Cantonese. Request services on the group’s website at www.gbmachicago.org or by calling or texting the group’s hotline at (312) 818-1393. Donations are welcome by emailing GBMA through the organization’s website.

GWTP JOB TRAINING

Greater West Town Partnership, 500 N. Sacramento Blvd.,offers job placement and training programs in wood products manufacturing and shipping and receiving. Call (312) 563-9570.

HOLY FAMILY-NOTRE DAME NEWS

While Masses are suspended due to coronavirus through the Easter season, Holy Family-Notre Dame Parish will offer Sunday Masses on the parish Facebook page at 10 a.m. Office hours are suspended. Email hfndparishcommunity@hf-nd.org for more information.

HR HOTSEAT

HRHotSeat Chicago is a free monthly online meetup of more than 1,600 human resources practitioners, service providers, students, and Chicago-area professionals in job transition who come together to expand networks and solve problems. Visit www.HRHotSeat.com or email info@hrhotseat.com for a calendar of upcoming events.

GIVE BLOOD

The Illinois Coalition of Community Blood Centers encourages people to give blood. Contact Vitalant at www.vitalant.org or (877) 258-4835 to schedule a donation time. For more information, log on to www.illlinoisbloodcenters.com.

BYRNE DETOURS

As part of the Jane Byrne Interchange reconstruction, the Illinois Department of Transportation on June 1 closed the ramp connecting the inbound Eisenhower Expressway with the outbound Kennedy Expressway. The ramp will remain closed for four months. A detour sends drivers down the Dan Ryan Expressway to Taylor Street and then back on to the Kennedy. Taylor Street is closed to street traffic between Union Avenue and Ruble Street, although pedestrians and bicyclists still may use it. IDOT also closed the inbound Dan Ryan ramp from Roosevelt Road, detouring motorists down Halsted Street to Adams Street.

LOW-COST INTERNET

Internet Essentials makes it possible for people receiving public assistance to qualify for low-cost internet service. Log on to internetessentials.com.

LADIES OF VIRTUE

Ladies of Virtue, 1245 S. Michigan Ave., (877) 565-7121, provides mentoring and leadership and empowering experiences, including help with school applications, for girls ages nine through 18 from underserved communities. Log on to lovchicago.org.

LATINO UNION

Latino Union of Chicago collaborates with low-income workers to improve their social and economic conditions through employment opportunities. Log on to latinounion.org or call (312) 491-9044. For those looking to hire workers, call (773) 588-2641.

RENTERS’ SERVICES

The Lawyers Committee for Better Housing provides eligible renters with supportive services and free legal aid. The LCBH also offers Rennie the Chatbot at rentervention.com to help with people’s housing problems. The LCBH is located at 33 N. LaSalle St. Call (312) 347-7600 or log on to www.lcbh.org.

MEALS FOR FIRST RESPONDERS

Third District Cook County Commissioner Bill Lowry has been dropping off meals provided by local restaurants to first responders during the coronavirus crisis. The Third District Support Fund has raised more than $5,800 to provide meals for first responders. Make a donation at www.CommissionerLowry.com/SupportFund or call (312) 603-6391.

MERCY NEWS

Mercy Home for Boys & Girls seeks adults to be mentors for youngsters. Learn more at MercyHome.org/ChicagoGazette.

Call (312) 738-7560 or log on to www.mercyhome.org.

MERIT ONLINE CLASSES

Merit School of Music has reworked its summer offerings to allow students to experience Merit’s camps, classes, electives, and workshops while staying safe and healthy at home through online camps and classes. Merit’s summer lineup offers a wide variety including sound engineering, songwriting, voice camp, and intro to piano classes. In addition to offering financial aid to qualifying families, Merit has raised money for a COVID relief discount for families whose finances are affected by the coronavirus (COVID-19). Browse classes and register at www.meritmusic.org/summer.

EMPOWERING LATINAS

Mujeres Latinas en Accion empowers Latinas through service and advocacy. Their domestic violence crisis hotline is (312) 738-5358 and their rape crisis hotline is (888) 293-2080. Mujeres is located at 2124 W. 21st Pl. Call (773) 890-7676.

IMMIGRANT JUSTICE

The National Immigrant Justice Center, 224 S. Michigan Ave., provides comprehensive legal services to low-income immigrants, refugees, and asylum seekers. It will continue to do intakes over the phone during the coronavirus crisis. Call (312) 660-1370 or log on to www.immigrantjustice.org.

PAPPAS IMPROVES WEBSITE

Taxpayers seeking property tax refunds have new tools on cookcountytreasurer.com enabling them to file electronically instead of downloading a form and mailing it in, Cook County Treasurer Maria Pappas said. Eliminating paper applications will reduce the time it takes the office to issue refunds due to overpayments, she added.

GAS WORK

People’s Gas is replacing a gas main at West 31st and South Halsted Streets through Monday, July 6. The company expects no interruption in service.

INTERNET COURSES

Public Narrative,600 S. Michigan Ave., offers courses in various locations on topics including social media, communication plans, podcasting, search engine optimization, and analytics. Call (312) 369-6400.

CRIME VICTIM ASSISTANCE

Attorney General Kwame Raoul’s Crime Victims Services Bureau helps those dealing with the effects of crime. Call (800) 228-3368.

SAINT IGNATIUS NEWS

Saint Ignatius College Prep’s 34th Annual Golf Classic is scheduled for Wednesday, June 17, at Cog Hill, featuring golf, food, and prizes. Proceeds will go to the school’s Tuition Assistance Program. Call (312) 432-8403 or email wendy.mccarthy@ignatius.org.

The school is located at 1076 W. Roosevelt Rd.

CONTACT ROBINSON

State Representative Lamont J. Robinson (D-5th) wants to hear what residents think are the most important issues in the community. Contact him at (773) 924-4614 or at his office at 5048 S. Indiana Ave.

SHRINE NEWS

The Shrine of Our Lady of Pompeii is posting a novena daily during the coronavirus pandemic at www.ourladyofpompeii.org/special-covid-19-novena/.

Rev. Richard N. Fragomeni, rector of the Shrine of Our Lady of Pompeii, will lead a virtual retreat, Connecting Our Hearts in this Time of Distancing, on Saturday, June 6, from 9 a.m. to noon. Check in online at 8:45 a.m.

The shrine is at 1224 W. Lexington St. Call (312) 421-3757 or log on to www.ourladyofpompeii.org.

SHURE HELPS CPS

As students and teachers continue transitioning to online learning, having the right tools to learn from home can be a challenge. To help, Shure, an audio equipment company, donated $79,000 worth of earphones to Chicago Public Schools. The earphones are compatible with mobile phones and laptops to enable more focused learning for students and teachers who may encounter distracting noise or difficulties in hearing online lessons at home. For more information, see www.shure.com.

FARMERS MARKET ONLINE 

The South Loop Farmers Market online marketplace will open for new orders of produce, meat, eggs, bread, baked goods, specialty foods, plants, beer, and other products every Friday at 9 a.m. Vendors will pack your order and have it ready for pickup on the following Thursday between 2 and 6 p.m. at Second Presbyterian Church, 1936 S. Michigan Ave. Pickup fee is $10. During pickup, customers will come to the parking lot of Second Presbyterian Church and form a line outside the church’s back door. Customers must wear a mask and follow all social distancing and safety precautions. The market also will deliver to select buildings. Sign up at www.southloopfarmersmarket.com/slfm-direct.

SOUTH LOOP NEIGHBORS NEWS

The South Loop Neighbors chose These Extraordinary Times for this year’s photo contest theme and recommends interested participants start taking photos now. All contest entries must focus on the South Loop; SLN will provide more information later. If SLH cannot hold the photo contest in conjunction with the Printer’s Row Art Fest, it will conduct it online.

Enjoy a South Loop Sing Along every night at 8:30 p.m. Check out Hello South Loop on Facebook to find out the nightly song selection.

For information, log onto www.southloopneighbors.org.

STEVENS HONORED

Congratulations to Gazette Chicago reporterSusan S. Stevens, who received one of the inaugural Chicago Headline Club Service Awards for her decades of dedication and service to the club. According to the CHC, Chicago’s premier journalism organization, “Sue is the backbone of the Chicago Headline Club. In addition to serving as the club’s longtime secretary, she has been our institutional memory and the voice of reason during times of transition…a journalism pioneer who joined the Headline Club in 1969—the first year women were officially welcomed to join.”

CORONAVIRUS TESTING SITES

New testing sites for coronavirus (COVID-19) include Saucedo Elementary Academy, 2850 W. 24th Blvd.; Kennedy King College, 6301 S. Halsted St.; Senka Park, 5656 S. St. Louis Ave.; Gately Park, 844 E. 103rd St.; and, for first responders and health care workers only, Guaranteed Rate Field, 333 W. 35thSt.

TRAUMA HELPLINE

The toll-free TURN Trauma Counseling Helpline,(833) TURN123, operates from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday, Wednesday, and Friday. TURN stands for The Urban Resilience Network, and the helpline assists those experiencing trauma caused by exposure to violence. The organization also provides trained ambassadors to visit community events and schools to educate about trauma.

BUSINESS ASSISTANCE

If your business has experienced substantial economic injury due to the coronavirus pandemic, the U.S. Small Business Association is authorized to issue assistance through a small business economic injury disaster loan program. This program can provide low interest loans of up to $2 million to businesses and private non-profits. See https://disasterloan.sba.gov/ela/.

SUMMERLAB

The University of Chicago Laboratory Schools will host Summer Lab, Monday, June 22, through Friday, July 31, featuring a day camp, theatre training, summer school, sports, dance, and recreation. Log on to SummerLab.org.

UIC INFORMATION

Two education-related researchers from the University of Illinois at Chicago received nearly $1 million combined in grants from the Spencer Foundation in support of their work. The foundation presented the awards to Decoteau Irby, associate professor of educational policy studies, for his project exploring school district-level equity leadership and impact and to Amanda Roy, assistant professor of psychology, to support her investigation concerning education and work decisions among low-income, ethnic minority youth.

BLOOD NEEDED

Vitalant, the Chicago area’s largest blood center, is facing an emergency need for blood and platelets. To donate, visit vitalant.org or call (877) 258-4825.

HIV+ WOMEN

The Women’s Treatment Center offers free assistance with online applications for enrollment into the Illinois Ryan White Part B Program for HIV+ women. Call (312) 850-0050, x4994. The center is at 140 N. Ashland Ave. Log on to www.womenstreatmentcenter.org.

MUSEUM CAMPUS TOUR

Historian Richie Zie has posted a 20-minute tour of the Museum Campus on his website www.richiezie.com. Click on video, and then on Chicago history. In the last three months, Zie has posted 17 shows on the website.

Send news of events held “around the neighborhood” by the 15th of the month before the month they are to occur to William S. Bike, Around the Neighborhood, Gazette Chicago, 1335 W. Harrison St., Chicago, IL 60607-3318, fax (312) 243-4270, or email info@gazettechicago.com.

SEND INFO FOR ATN

Local schools, churches, and institutions are welcome and encouraged to send information to Gazette Chicago for inclusion in the Around the Neighborhood section free of charge. News of upcoming events; student, faculty, staff, and parishioner accomplishments; and photos of events that have occurred are welcome. Please send information to info@gazettechicago.com in the month preceding the event—for example, news promoting July events should be sent to Gazette Chicago in June. The next deadline is Wednesday, June 17, for the July 3 issue.

By William S. Bike

Editor’s note: At press time, future events listed in Around the Neighborhood still were scheduled, but changes are happening on a daily basis due to the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic. Check websites or call before going out in case events have been postponed or canceled.

ART INSTITUTE NEWS

The Art Institute of Chicago is scheduled to present the exhibition Monet and Chicago during the summer through Monday, Sept. 7, at 111 S. Michigan Ave. Log on to www.artic.edu.

CDS, UIC HELP AREA HOSPITALS

The Chicago Dental Society and its members donated thousands of personal protective equipment items and disinfecting supplies to front-line health care workers in this area in response to the coronavirus pandemic, in an effort organized by Clark Stanford, DDS, dean of the University of Illinois at Chicago College of Dentistry and Terri Tiersky, DDS, president of the CDS. UIC College of Dentistry student volunteers collected most of the equipment to bring back to UIC, which then distributed the supplies among the four hospitals in the Illinois Medical District in Chicago: University of Illinois Hospital, John H. Stroger Jr. Hospital of Cook County, Rush University Medical Center, and Jesse Brown VA Medical Center. 

SCHOLARSHIPS AVAILABLE

The Chicago Department of Family and Support Services reports that Community Services Block Grant Scholarships are available for those enrolled or planning to enroll in college or vocational training. Contact Jenny Schuler at jenny.schuler@cityofchicago.org or (312) 746-7291.

HISTORY SHOWS

Richie Zie, host of the Chicago History & Automotive Heaven TV and radio show podcast, has produced television segments about historic Chicago churches, auto, motorcycle, and fire museums; a TV show about a bicycle shop operated in Chicago since 1910 with the same family; Paws Chicago; and a segment about angels. There are over 100 radio shows on Chicago history at www.richiezie.com, or go to Richiezie on Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube.

NURSE CONSORTIUM NEWS

The Chicago Bilingual Nurse Consortium helps foreign-educated nurses attain licensure in Illinois. 

National Council Licensure Examination predictor tests are available to demonstrate probability of passing the nursing exam.

The organization’s website at www.chicagobilingualnurse.org also lists jobs available for nurses. For more information, call (773) 838-1870.

PARK DISTRICT NEWS

The Chicago Park District is partnering with the Illinois Soybean Association to produce hand sanitizer to help mitigate the spread of coronavirus among the district’s workforce and City first responders. Park District staff and other professionals who continue to perform essential functions during the State’s stay at home order are using the hand sanitizer. The ISA is contributing to the effort by helping secure raw materials and packaging needed for production. For more about the Park District, visit www.chicagoparkdistrict.com or call (312) 742.PLAY or (312) 747.2001 (TTY). 

RENTAL ASSISTANCE

City of Chicago emergency rental assistance is available for people suffering financial hardship. Call 311 or use a search engine to find City of Chicago Family & Support Services online.

GET ORGANIZED

Community Organizing and Family Issues, 2245 S. Michigan Ave., (312) 226-5141, organizes and trains parents to win improvements in schools and communities and in how to create organizations and programs. See cofionline.org.

CMI RESOURCES

The Crisis Management Institute (CMI) works with schools and parents after a tragedy, such as a shooting or national event like the Sept. 11, 2001. To deal with issues related to coronavirus, the CMI launched several websites. One has resources for school counselors, counselors.cmionline.com; a second is for parents, parents.cmionline.com; and a third serves children and their parents, resources-for-kids-during-covid19. Parents can access several children’s books by Marla Koch to help children deal with quarantine by using the resources tab of the parents’ website. For more information, log on to www.cmionline.org or call (503) 585-3484.

DE LA SALLE NEWS

The De La Salle Institute robotics team recently competed at the 2020 Midwest Regional First Robotics Competition held at Credit Union 1 Arena on the campus of the University of Illinois at Chicago. De La Salle participants numbered 23 students, with the Meteors finishing 40th in the 54-team field. Representing De La Salle were: Adam Creighton, Andres Cuevas, Victor DeAvila, Matthew Dixon, Xochitl Duron, Joel Flores, Michael Gallagher, Soley Gevorgiz, Branden Goeden, Sebastian Gutierrez, Paul Harden, Enrique Herrera, Asata Hodari, Dakota Huff-Brand, Cameron Laviste, Miriam Lopez, Christian Meyer, Ashley Naveja, Sofia Podszus, Felicity Sierra, Lukas Sonntag, Jalen Tucker, and Isaiah Washington.

Emily McManus was chosen Meteor of the Month.

Students TaKiya (TK) Howard and Janiece Dawson were chosen to the 2019-20 All-Girls Catholic Athletic Conference White Division Team in girls’ basketball.

Students, faculty, and staff have launched the What We Can Do to Make a Difference initiative to help during the coronavirus pandemic. De La Salle participants are donating food, money, and blood. For example, the Brogan family held a giving day, loading up one of its family vehicles to deliver bags filled with food to the Friendship Center, a food bank with two locations.

De La Salle is located at 3434 S. Michigan Ave. Call (312) 842-7355.

BIOETHICS AND COVID-19

DePaul University will host a virtual program for alumni, A Bioethicist Talks about COVID-19, on Thursday, May 14, at 5 p.m., featuring bioethicist Craig Klugman. Register at alumnievents@depaul.edu or call (800) 437-1898.

LOCAL CHAPTER HONORED

The Chicago Downtown chapter of Ducks Unlimited,the world’s largest nonprofit organization dedicated to conserving North America’s waterfowl habitats, received the organization’s President’s Elite award for raising between $100,000 and $250,000 to protect waterfowl. For more information, visit www.ducks.org.

FUNDING FOR GOVERNMENTS

Illinois’s U.S. Senators Dick Durbin and Tammy Duckworth announced Illinois will receive $4.9 billion in state and local stabilization funds from the Coronavirus Relief Fund established by the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act to help offset significant increased costs that state and local governments are facing from the coronavirus pandemic. The CARES Act’s Coronavirus Relief Fund allows state and local governments with more than 500,000 residents to apply directly to the U.S. Treasury Department for cash infusions. The City of Chicago and Cook County will receive funding.

LEGAL DEFENSE

First Defense Legal Aid, 5100 W. Harrison St., provides representation to people in custody, informs people of their rights, and organizes volunteers to help.

For more information, call (773) 434-4162. 

GLESSNER TOURS

After the State and City lift stay-at-home directives, explore architecture, history, and design at Glessner House, 1800 S. Prairie Ave. Tours will be offered Wednesday through Sunday at 11:30 a.m., 1 p.m., and 2:30 p.m. In the meantime, take a virtual tour or, for information, visit GlessnerHouse.org.

GWTP JOB TRAINING

Greater West Town Partnership, 500 N. Sacramento Blvd., offers job placement and training programs in wood products manufacturing and shipping and receiving. Call (312) 563-9570.

LOW-COST INTERNET

Internet Essentials makes it possible for people receiving public assistance to qualify for low-cost internet service. Log on to internetessentials.com.

HOLY FAMILY-NOTRE DAME NEWS

While Masses are suspended due to coronavirus through the Easter season, Holy Family-Notre Dame Parish will offer Sunday Masses on the parish Facebook page at 10 a.m. Office hours are suspended. Email hfndparishcommunity@hf-nd.org for more information.

HR HOTSEAT

HRHotSeat Chicagois a free monthly online meetup of more than 1,600 human resources practitioners, service providers, students, and Chicago-area pro-fessionals in job transition who come together to expand networks and solve problems. Visit www.HRHotSeat.com or email info@hrhotseat.com for a calendar of upcoming events.

GIVE BLOOD 

The Illinois Coalition of Community Blood Centers encourages people to give blood. Contact Vitalant at www.vitalant.org or (877) 258-4835 to schedule a donation time. For more information, log on to www.illlinoisbloodcenters.com.

LADIES OF VIRTUE

Ladies of Virtue,1245 S. Michigan Ave., (877) 565-7121, provides mentoring and leadership and empowering experiences, including help with school applications, for girls ages nine through 18 from underserved communities. Log on to lovchicago.org.

LATINO UNION

Latino Union of Chicago collaborates with low-income workers to improve their social and economic conditions through employment opportunities. Log on to latinounion.org or call (312) 491-9044. For those looking to hire workers, call (773) 588-2641.

RENTERS’ SERVICES

The Lawyers Committee for Better Housing provides eligible renters with supportive services and free legal aid. The LCBH also offers Rennie the Chatbot at rentervention.com to help with people’s housing problems. The LCBH is located at 33 N. LaSalle St. Call (312) 347-7600 or log on to www.lcbh.org.

MERCY NEWS

Mercy Home for Boys & Girls seeks adults to be mentors for youngsters. Learn more at MercyHome.org/ChicagoGazette.

Mercy needs groceries to help the more than 60 families that have come to the organization for help during the crisis. To donate groceries or a gift card, drop off at 1100 W. Jackson St. in the north parking lot at Jackson and Aberdeen Street on Mondays and Tuesdays between 9 a.m. and noon.

Call (312) 738-7560 or log on to www.mercyhome.org.

BLOOD NEEDED

Vitalant, the Chicago area’s largest blood center, is facing an emergency need for blood and platelets. To donate, visit vitalant.org or call (877) 258-4825.

EMPOWERING LATINAS

Mujeres Latinas en Accion empowers Latinas through service and advocacy. Their domestic violence crisis hotline is (312) 738-5358 and their rape crisis hotline is (888) 293-2080. Mujeres is located at 2124 W. 21st Pl. Call (773) 890-7676.

IMMIGRANT JUSTICE

The National Immigrant Justice Center, 224 S. Michigan Ave., provides comprehensive legal services to low-income immigrants, refugees, and asylum seekers. It will continue to do intakes over the phone during the coronavirus crisis. Call (312) 660-1370 or log on to www.immigrantjustice.com.

INTERNET COURSES

Public Narrative,600 S. Michigan Ave., offers courses in various locations on topics including social media, communication plans, podcasting, search engine optimization, and analytics. Call (312) 369-6400.

CRIME VICTIM ASSISTANCE

Attorney General Kwame Raoul’s Crime Victims Services Bureau helps those dealing with the effects of crime. Call (800) 228-3368.

SHRINE NEWS

The Shrine of Our Lady of Pompeii is posting a novena daily during the coronavirus pandemic at www.ourladyofpompeii.org/special-covid-19-novena/.

The shrine is at 1224 W. Lexington St. Call (312) 421-3757 or log on to www.ourladyofpompeii.org.

SAINT IGNATIUS NEWS

Saint Ignatius College Prep’s 34th Annual Golf Classic is scheduled for Wednesday, June 17, at Cog Hill, featuring golf, food, and prizes. Proceeds will go to the school’s Tuition Assistance Program. Call (312) 432-8403 or email wendy.mccarthy@ignatius.org.

The school is located at 1076 W. Roosevelt Rd.

CONTACT ROBINSON

State Representative Lamont J. Robinson (D-5th) wants to hear what residents think are the most important issues in the community. Contact him at (773) 924-4614 or at his office at 5048 S. Indiana Ave.

TRAUMA HELPLINE

The toll-free TURN Trauma Counseling Helpline,(833) TURN123, operates from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday, Wednesday, and Friday. TURN stands for The Urban Resilience Network, and the helpline assists those experiencing trauma caused by exposure to violence. The organization also provides trained ambassadors to visit community events and schools to educate about trauma.

BUSINESS ASSISTANCE

If your business has experienced substantial economic injury due to the coronavirus pandemic, the U.S. Small Business Association is authorized to issue assistance through a small business economic injury disaster loan program. This program can provide low interest loans of up to $2 million to businesses and private non-profits. See https://disasterloan.sba.gov/ela/.

SUMMERLAB

The University of Chicago Laboratory Schools will host Summer Lab, Monday, June 22, through Friday, July 31, featuring a day camp, theatre training, summer school, sports, dance, and recreation. Log on to SummerLab.org.

UIC INFO

University of Illinois at Chicago undergraduate student Lopa Bhatt, a junior majoring in physics and mathematics in the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, earned a prestigious Goldwater Scholarship from the Barry M. Goldwater Scholarship and Excellence Foundation.

The University of Illinois College of Medicine and Vanda Pharmaceuticals are partnering to develop an antiviral drug to fight the coronavirus. Bellur S. Prabhakar, professor of microbiology and senior associate dean for research in the College of Medicine, is leading the project.

This year, 192 medical students graduated early to help meet the growing demand for physicians during the coronavirus pandemic.

HIV+ WOMEN

The Women’s Treatment Center offers free assistance with online applications for enrollment into the Illinois Ryan White Part B Program for HIV+ women. Call (312) 850-0050, x4994. The center is at 140 N. Ashland Ave. Log on to www.womenstreatmentcenter.org.

By William S. Bike

Editor’s note: At press time, future events listed in Around the Neighborhood still were scheduled, but changes are happening on a daily basis due to the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic.  Check websites or call before going out in case events have been postponed or cancelled.

SUICIDE PREVENTION

The American Foundation for Suicide Prevention Illinois Chapter will hold a volunteer gathering on Saturday, April 18, in Oak Park, IL, and a research connection event on Thursday, April 30, in Chicago. Call (312) 890-2377.

BENTON HOUSE INFO

At Benton House, 3052 S. Gratten Ave., find out about public benefits such as supplemental nutrition assistance and citizenship application help. Food pantry hours are noon to 2 p.m. Fridays. Enjoy movies most Mondays at 7 p.m., senior exercise Mondays and Wednesdays at 10:30 a.m., yoga on Tuesdays at 8 p.m., and open basketball games Wednesdays at 8 p.m. Call (773) 927-6420 or email info@bentonhouse.org.

BOULEVARD NEWS

The Boulevard of Chicago at 3456 W. Franklin Blvd. provides medical respite care and housing services for homeless adults discharged from area hospitals. Call (773) 533-6013 or log on to www.blvd.org.

PASSPORT TO TASTE

Career Transitions Center’s Passport to Taste annual event as of press time is scheduled to be held Thursday, May 7, 6 to 9 p.m. at 625 W. Adams. St. Enjoy award presentations, wine, beer, food, and a silent auction. Tickets are $100 each. Call (312) 906-9908 or email ajenke@ctcchicago.org. 

NURSE CONSORTIUM NEWS

The Chicago Bilingual Nurse Consortium helps foreign-educated nurses attain licensure in Illinois. 

National Council Licensure Examination predictor tests are available to demonstrate probability of passing the nursing exam.

The organization’s website at www.chicagobilingualnurse.org also lists jobs available for nurses. For more information, call (773) 838-1870.

RENTAL ASSISTANCE

City of Chicago emergency rental assistance is available for people suffering financial hardship due to a loss of job, home fire, or illness. Call 311 or use a search engine to find City of Chicago Family & Support Services online.

SCHOLARSHIPS AVAILABLE

The Chicago Department of Family and Support Services reports that Community Services Block Grant Scholarships are available for those enrolled or planning to enroll in college or vocational training. Contact Jenny Schuler at jenny.schuler@cityofchicago.org or (312) 746-7291.

CINCO DE MAYO

Chicago Latino Network will host a Cinco de Mayo celebration Tuesday, May 5, at 6 p.m. at Roof on the Wit, 201 N. State St., 27th floor. Tickets are $25 each. See www.digitallatinos.com.

GET ORGANIZED

Community Organizing and Family Issues, 2245 S. Michigan Ave., (312) 226-5141, organizes and trains parents to win improvements in schools and communities and in how to create organizations and programs. See cofionline.org.

DE LA SALLE NEWS

De La Salle Institute celebrated its 50th annual Honors Geometry Bridge Contest, in which students competed by building bridges to see which had the greatest strength and durability. Frank Galvan placed first, as his bridge held 270 pounds; Alexa Acevedo  placed second with a bridge withstanding 255 pounds of pressure, and Judith Hernandez garnered third place with a bridge that sustained 235 pounds. Galvan’s 270 pounds also earned him second place in the student category over the contest’s five decades. Acevedo’s 255 pounds ties her for third place in the student all-time category, with Hernandez sharing fifth place at 235 pounds.

Students participated in the Model United Nations Conference at the Hyatt-Regency Chicago, sponsored by the University of Chicago. Representing De La Salle were Michael Baker, Matthew Dixon, Branden Goeden, Byron Hidalgo, Desmond Jones, Ivan Martinez, Christian Meyer, Mateo Strainis, and Jonathan Valenzuela.

De La Salle recently received two plaudits from the Illinois Basketball Coaches Association for excellence in boys’ basketball. De La Salle won honors for reaching the 1,500-victory plateau, having won 1,751 games since the 1920-21 season, and the association lauded De La Salle head coach Tom White for winning his 400th career game in a 73-63 victory over Payton on Nov. 27. 

Six students participated in the 2020 Chicago Archdiocesan Math Competition sponsored by the Math Teachers Association of Chicago and Vicinity at Loyola University. Alexandra Brist, Christopher Considine, Victor DeAvila, Kayla Roman-Flores, Drayona Rollins, and Zheng (Jack) Sun represented De La Salle.

Roman-Flores won the 2020 National Center for Women & Information Technology (NCWIT) Aspirations in Computing Award. NCWIT honors young women in high school who are active and interested in computing and technology.

The Illinois Student Assistance Commission named 11 Class of 2020 members Illinois State Scholars: Matthew Boehm; Alexandra Brist (West Loop); Christopher Considine; Matthew Dixon; Michael Gallagher (Near West Side); Isaiah Hernandez (Near West Side); Nina Penny; Marc Rhymes; Alanna Saucedo (McKinley Park); John Stewart (Bridgeport); and Joshua Thornto.

De La Salle named Dominic Freddura head coach for lacrosse.

The De La Salle Mock Trial Team recently competed against 30 other high schools at an event held by the Northwest Suburban Bar Association. De La Salle student Jonathan Valenzuela won Outstanding Attorney against a field of nearly 100 students. Joining Valenzuela on the team were Peter Brennan, Isabella Brogan, Samantha Brost, Mackenzie Capers, Chelsea Guardiola, Judith Hernandez, Ivan Martinez, and Nadiya Muhammad.

De La Salle is located at 3434 S. Michigan Ave. Call (312) 842-7355.

LEGAL DEFENSE

First Defense Legal Aid, 5100 W. Harrison St., provides representation to people in custody, informs people of their rights, and organizes volunteers to help.

For more information, call (773) 434-4162. 

DONATIONS WELCOME

First Trinity Chicago Lutheran Church Community Center welcomes donations of clothing, shoes, and hygiene items. Volunteers accept donations on Tuesdays from 5 to 7 p.m. and Fridays from 10 a.m. to noon. The church is located at 643 W. 31st St. Call (312) 842-7390.

PARK CLEANUP

Friends of Printers Row Park will host a cleanup on Saturday, April 18, from 9 a.m. to noon. The park is at 634 S. Dearborn St. Call (312) 742-3918. 

GWTP JOB TRAINING

Greater West Town Partnership, 500 N. Sacramento Blvd., offers job placement and training programs in wood products manufacturing and shipping and receiving. Call (312) 563-9570.

HOLY FAMILY-NOTRE DAME NEWS

While Masses are suspended due to coronavirus (COVID-19) through the Easter season, Holy Family/Notre Dame Parish will offer Sunday Masses on the parish Facebook page at 10 a.m. The house chapel at the parish office, 1335 W. Harrison St., will be open Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. for personal prayer. You may park in the lot at 1334 W. Flournoy St. and enter the chapel off Harrison Street. Office hours are suspended. Email hfndparishcommunity@hf-nd.org for more information.

HONORING VETERANS

Honor Flight Chicago,a not-for-profit organization,flies veterans of the U.S. armed services to Washington, DC, at no charge for a day of recognition and sightseeing. For information on signing up a veteran for a flight, or to make a donation, log on to www.honorflightchicago.org.

HR HOTSEAT

HR HotSeat Chicagois a free monthly online meetup of more than 1,600 human resources practitioners, service providers, students, and Chicago-area professionals in job transition who come together to expand networks and solve problems. Visit www.HRHotSeat.com or email info@hrhotseat.com for a calendar of upcoming events.

GIVE BLOOD CHALLENGE

The Illinois Coalition of Community Blood Centers is launching the “#GiveBloodChallenge” to encourage people to take a brief trip to donate blood and then post a photo on social media (or at least post your appointment time) and tag ten friends to do the same. Contact Vitalant at www.vitalant.org or  (877) 258-4835 to schedule a donation time (can be done online) and post a photo on social media with the hashtag #GiveBloodChallenge. For more information, log on to www.illlinoisbloodcenters.com.

COLLEGE OF COMPUTING

Illinois Institute of Technology has created a College of Computing to educate students in data and computation. The new college will open June 1, ahead of the fall 2020 semester. It will house Illinois Tech’s computer science, data science, artificial intelligence, applied mathematics, cybersecurity, information technology, and management programs. Illinois Tech is at 10 W. 35th St. Call (312) 567-3000.

LOW-COST INTERNET

Internet Essentials makes it possible for people receiving public assistance to qualify for low-cost internet service. Log on to internetessentials.com.

LADIES OF VIRTUE

Ladies of Virtue,1245 S. Michigan Ave., (877) 565-7121, provides mentoring and leadership and empowering experiences, including help with school applications, for girls ages nine through 18 from underserved communities. Log on to lovchicago.org.

LATINO UNION

Latino Union of Chicago collaborates with low-income workers to improve their social and economic conditions through employment opportunities. Log on to latinounion.org or call (312) 491-9044. For those looking to hire workers, call (773) 588-2641.

RENTERS’ SERVICES

The Lawyers Committee for Better Housing provides eligible renters with supportive services and free legal aid. The LCBH also offers Rennie the Chatbot at rentervention.com to help with people’s housing problems. The LCBH is located at 33 N. LaSalle St. Call (312) 347-7600 or log on to www.lcbh.org.

VETS HONORED

Former 11th Ward Alderman James Balcer on March 8 gathered with other Vietnam era veterans at the Vietnam War Memorial at State Street and Wacker Drive to commemorate the 55th anniversary of U.S. Marines landing in Danang, South Vietnam. Balcer gave a keynote speech, joined by about ten Vietnam and other veterans. The group also visited the wall at the memorial, which lists the 2,995 Illinois military personnel killed in the Vietnam War as well as Vietnam War prisoners of war and Medal of Honor winners from Illinois.

AWARDS PRESENTED

The McKinley Park Civic Association recently presented the William H.G. Toms Community Service Award to Steve Demitro and the Educator of the Year award to Nathanael Greene Elementary School teacher Michelle McKeown. Other winning teachers were Marty Basco of Evergreen Academy Middle School, Mark Darnall of Thomas Kelly College Prep, Patrick Hunter of Horizon Science Academy-McKinley Park, Cindy Mlynarski of Burroughs Elementary School, Br. Christopher Oddo of De La Salle Institute, Miguel Patino of Blessed Sacrament Parish, and Sara Urban of Namaste Charter School. The association also recognized winning student essayists Layla Cruz, Zoe Martinez, Rosie Moreno, Giselle Rios, and Gavin Torres. For more information, email info@mckinleypark.news or call (312) 560-1115.

MENTORS SOUGHT

Mercy Home for Boys & Girls seeks adults to be mentors for youngsters. Learn more at MercyHome.org/ChicagoGazette.

LETTERS OF INTENT

Six Mount Carmel High School students signed letters of intent to play sports at various colleges and universities: football players Michael Foggie, Valparaiso University; Jalen Grant, Bowling Green State University; Aaron Lopez, Augustana College; Lance Swain, Quincy University; and Jason Thompson, Carthage College; and wrestler Alex Lelezas, Campbell University. The school is located at 6410 S. Dante Ave. Call (773) 359-0497.

MERIT GALA

Merit School of Music will honor Richard Colburn of the Negaunee Foundation and the Civitas Ensemble at its 41st annual benefit gala at Four Seasons Hotel Chicago, 120 E. Delaware Pl., on Tuesday, May 5. The gala starts with a reception at 6 p.m., followed by dinner and student-led concert program at 7 p.m. Tickets are $500 each. Log on to meritmusic.org/gala.

EMPOWERING LATINAS

Mujeres Latinas en Accion empowers Latinas through service and advocacy. Their domestic violence crisis hotline is (312) 738-5358 and their rape crisis hotline is (888) 293-2080. Mujeres is located at 2124 W. 21st Pl. Call (773) 890-7676.

IMMIGRANT JUSTICE

The National Immigrant Justice Center, 224 S. Michigan Ave., provides comprehensive legal services to low-income immigrants, refugees, and asylum seekers. It will continue to do intakes over the phone during the coronavirus crisis. Call (312) 660-1370 or log on to www.immigrantjustice.com.

SAINT IGNATIUS NEWS

Saint Ignatius College Prep reunions are set for Saturday, April 18, for the 1995, 2000, 2005, and 2010 classes.

The school is located at 1076 W. Roosevelt Rd. Call (312) 421-5900.

POMPEII NEWS

The Shrine of Our Lady of Pompeii offers virtual meditations as well as virtual novena prayers Wednesday through Thursday, April 1 through 9. Log on to www.ourladyofpompeii.org/news/virtual-meditation/. The church is at 1224 W. Lexington St. Call (312) 421-3757.

INTERNET COURSES

Public Narrative,600 S. Michigan Ave., offers courses in various locations on topics including social media, communication plans, podcasting, search engine optimization, and analytics. Call (312) 369-6400.

RUSH GENERATIONS

Rush Generations, a health and aging program, offers classes, screenings, support groups, and other programs for older adults and caregivers. On the third Thursday of every month, including April 17, Rush’s Diabetes Support and Education Group meets to share healthful habits, establish longterm health goals, and learn about nutrition and lifestyle changes that can help participants live with diabetes. A licensed physical therapist will offer Balance Screening on Tuesday, April 21, plus tips to improve balance and reduce fear of falling. Rush’s Take Charge of Your Diabetes Workshop meets for six Wednesdays, beginning April 22, to help participants build skills and gain confidence in managing diabetes and leading an active, fulfilling life. All programs take place on the Rush University Medical Center campus on the Near West Side. For more information or to register for an event, call (800) 757-0202.

CRIME VICTIM ASSISTANCE

Attorney General Kwame Raoul’s Crime Victims Services Bureau helps those dealing with the effects of crime. Call (800) 228-3368.

CONTACT ROBINSON

State Representative Lamont J. Robinson (D-5th) wants to hear what residents think are the most important issues in the community. Contact him at (773) 924-4614 or at his office at 5048 S. Indiana Ave.

TRAUMA HELPLINE

The toll-free TURN Trauma Counseling Helpline,(833) TURN123, operates from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday, Wednesday, and Friday. TURN stands for The Urban Resilience Network, and the helpline assists those experiencing trauma caused by exposure to violence. The organization also provides trained ambassadors to visit community events and schools to educate about trauma.

BUSINESS ASSISTANCE

If your business has experienced substantial economic injury due to the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, the U.S. Small Business Association is authorized to issue assistance through a small business economic injury disaster loan program. This program can provide low interest loans of up to $2 million to businesses and private non-profits. See https://disasterloan.sba.gov/ela/.

SUMMERLAB

The University of Chicago Laboratory Schools will host Summer Lab, Monday, June 22, through Friday, July 31, featuring a day camp, theatre training, summer school, sports, dance, and recreation. Log on to SummerLab.org.

BLOOD NEEDED

Vitalant,the Chicago area’s largest blood center, is facing an emergency need for blood and platelets. To donate, visit vitalant.org or call (877) 258-4825.

HIV+ WOMEN

The Women’s Treatment Center offers free assistance with online applications for enrollment into the Illinois Ryan White Part B Program for HIV+ women. Call (312) 850-0050, x4994. The center is at 140 N. Ashland Ave. Log on to www.womenstreatmentcenter.org.

By William S. Bike

AA MEETINGS

Alcoholics Anonymous meetings are held every Thursday at 7 p.m. at the Shrine of Our Lady of Pompeii, in the basement at 1220 W. Lexington St. The meetings are closed format, meaning they are for people with drinking problems or AA members only, and not for family members. Call (773) 346-1475 for more information.

DRIVER HONORED

The Illinois State Senate honored the life of the late William F. Bike, Gazette Chicago circulation driver, by Unanimous Consent in Senate Resolution No. 830.

BURNETT NEWS

Alderman Walter Burnett Jr. of the 27th Ward holds regular Ward Night meetings open to the community on Mondays at 1452 N. Sedgwick St. from 5:30 to 7 p.m. and on Thursdays at 4 N. Western Ave. from 7 to 9 p.m.

Call (312) 432-1995.

SPARK GRANT

Artists can apply to the Chicago Artists Coalition for a SPARK grant. Deadline is Tuesday, Feb. 18. Call (312) 491-8888 x 1004.

NURSE CONSORTIUM NEWS

The Chicago Bilingual Nurse Consortium helps foreign-educated nurses attain licensure in Illinois. 

National Council Licensure Examination predictor tests are available to demonstrate probability of passing the nursing exam.

The organization’s website at www.chicagobilingualnurse.org also lists jobs available for nurses. For more information, call (312) 567-2065.

GALLERY NIGHT

The Chicago Arts District Second Fridays gallery night happens every second Friday of the month from 6 to 10 p.m. This walking tour of 25 Pilsen galleries and art spots includes performance art and shopping opportunities. Admission is free. Begin your tour at 1945 S. Halsted St. For more information, call (312) 738-8000.

BUSINESS WORKSHOPS

The Chicago Department of Business Affairs and Consumer Protection offers free business education workshops every Wednesday and Friday at City Hall. For more information, call (312) 744-2086 or email BACPoutreach@cityofchicago.org.

SCHOLARSHIPS AVAILABLE

The Chicago Department of Family and Support Services reports that Community Services Block Grant Scholarships are available for those enrolled or planning to enroll in college or vocational training. Contact Jenny Schuler at jenny.schuler@cityofchicago.org or (312) 746-7291.

HR MASTERMIND

The Chicago HR Mastermind is a free monthly meetup of more than 1,100 human resources practitioners, service providers, students, and Chicago-area professionals in job transition who come together to expand networks and solve problems. Arrive eager to be of service, and leave ready to make an impact. Visit www.HRHotSeat.com for a calendar of upcoming events.

SUNDAY HOURS AT LIBRARY BRANCH

The Little Italy branch of the Chicago Public Library, 1336 W. Taylor St., now has Sunday hours. The library is open 1 to 5 p.m. on Sundays. Call (312) 746-5656.

WOMEN’S PARK NEWS

Chicago Women’s Park and Gardens will host a candlelight yoga session on Friday, Feb. 7, from 7 to 8 p.m.

It will hold its sixth annual Fire and Ice Festival, Friday, Feb. 21, from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Enjoy roasted marshmallows, indoor skating in socks, arts and crafts, face painting, and karaoke. Cost is $5 per child. 

The park is located at 1801 S. Indiana Ave. Call (312) 328-0821.

COLUMBIA PLAY

Columbia College’s Studio 404, at72 E. 11th St., will perform the play Failure: A Love Story, a musical comedy, Wednesday through Saturday, Feb. 12 through 22. Log on to http://tickets.colum.edu/.

BUSINESS GRANTS

The City of Chicago will take applications through the end of February for new business development grants (provided by its Neighborhood Opportunity Fund through the INVEST South/West program) to develop businesses and properties on the South and West Sides. Log on to https://neighborhoodopportunityfund.com/

CHICAGO IS NOT BROKE

Editor Tom Tresser of CivicLab, who published the book Chicago Is Not Broke,is asking people to host a “book meeting in a box” at their homes. He will send ten books to you plus a discussion guide. You invite people to your home and either give or sell them the book. He supplies a link to a pre-recorded personalized video introduction that you play for the attendees. If you bring those folks back together after they read the book, Tresser will join that gathering via a live video chat. 

Contact Tresser at (312) 804-3230 or tom@civiclab.us.

DE LA SALLE NEWS

Five De La Salle Institute students were chosen to the 2019 All-Chicago Catholic League/East Suburban Catholic Conference Orange Division Football Team: wide receiver Matt Byrnes, defensive/offensive lineman Jamari Johnson, running back/wide receiver/defensive back Jason Moore, defensive/offensive lineman David Ortiz, and linebacker Aidan Ralph.

The school is located at 3434 S. Michigan Ave. Call (312) 842-7355.

BROOKLYN BRIDGE

Follow young Sasha as she explores her Brooklyn apartment building in the play Brooklyn Bridge, suitable for those age 7 and older, through Saturday, Feb. 22, at the DePaul University Merle Reskin Theatre, 60 E. Balbo Dr. Call (312) 922-1999.

FREE FEBRUARY

The Field Museum will offer free admission to Illinois residents every day in February. Hours are 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. The museum is located at 1400 S. Lake Shore Dr. See www.fieldmuseum.org.

LEGAL DEFENSE

First Defense Legal Aid,5100 W. Harrison St., provides representation to people in custody, informs people of their rights, and organizes volunteers to help.

For more information, call (773) 434-4162. 

GLESSNER HOUSE EVENTS

Glessner House, 1800 S. Prairie Ave., will host several February events. On Tuesday, Feb. 11, at 7 p.m., curator William Tyre will speak about Chicago’s first 38 landmarks, designated in February 1960; tickets are $15. On Saturday, Feb. 15, at 2:30 p.m., actress Lynn Rymarz will portray the Unsinkable Molly Brown, famed heroine of the Titanic; tickets are $25 and include a reception before the performance. On Sunday. Feb. 23, historian Christopher R. Reed will present the lecture Black Chicago Aspires for Residential Security: Battling the Restrictive Covenant, 1927-1948. This event will be held at Second Presbyterian Church, 1936 S. Michigan Ave., in honor of Black History Month. For information or to register, visit www.glessnerhouse.org.  

QUEEN OF SPADES

Lyric Opera of Chicago, 20 N. Wacker Dr.,will perform Tchai-kovsky’s Queen of Spades,a romantic thriller, starting Saturday, Feb. 15, and running through Sunday, March 1. See lyricopera.org.

MILLENNIUM PARK NEWS

The Millennium Park Ice Rinkremains open until Sunday, March 8. Skating is free. Skate rental, skate sharpening, and locker rentals are available for various charges. The rink is at 1 N. Michigan Ave.

MCKINLEY PARK NEWS

The McKinley Park Dog Park Committeemeets the first Monday of every month at 7 p.m. in the McKinley Park Fieldhouse. Email mckinleydogpark@gmail.com.

The park is at 37th Street and Archer Avenue.

MERCY HOME NEWS

Mercy Home for Boys & Girls seeks adults to be mentors for youngsters. Learn more at MercyHome.org/ChicagoGazette. Sign up for the 2020 Bank of America Chicago Marathon through Mercy Home. Log on to www.MercyHome.org/Gaze.

PARENT CONFERENCE

The nonprofit organization Mr. Dad’s Father’s Club will host a parent conference at the Beasley Academic Center about navigating the public school system. The event runs 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturday, Feb. 22, 5255 S. State St. Tickets are $20 per person or family. Email Mr.dadsfathersclub@gmail.com.

BENEFIT CONCERT

Merit School of Music will host a benefit concert by Marquis Hill on Saturday, March 2, at City Winery, 1200 W. Randolph St., to support equal access to music education. Tickets begin at $25. Merit is located at 38 S. Peoria St. Call (312) 786-9428 or log on to meritmusic.org/playon.

FILMING AT HIGH SCHOOL

The film crew from the NBC-TV series Chicago Fire recently came to the Mount Carmel High School campus for filming, where crew members converted the campus into the fictional “Stover Academy.” Mount Carmel is at 6410 S. Dante Ave. Call (773) 324-1020 or log on to www.mchs.com.

RIVAL DIVAS

Music of the Baroque will present Rival Divas Monday, Feb. 24, at the Harris Theater, 205 E. Randolph St. Call (312) 551-1414. 

ST. PATRICK’S DAY DINNER AND PARTY

Nativity of Our Lord Parish will host its annual St. Patrick’s Day Dinner and Party, a 21 years or older event, on Saturday, March 7, at Nativity of Our Lord Church Hall at 653 W. 37th St. Doors open at 6 p.m.; dinner starts at 7 p.m. Tickets for $55 or tables of ten for $500 are available. There will be prizes, raffles, entertainment, cash bar, and catering by Harrington’s. Reservations are necessary. No coolers allowed. Post-dinner entry after 9 p.m. is $10; no RSVP necessary. For more information call (773) 927-6263 or log on to www.nativitybridgeport.org. Ad book opportunities also available.

NSPB MEETING

The Near South Planning Board will host its general membership meeting and luncheon on Friday, Feb. 14, at noon at the Hyatt Regency McCormick Hotel, 2233 S. King Dr. Maurice Cox, commissioner, City of Chicago Department of Planning and Development, will speak. Tickets are $75 for members and $95 for others. Log on to www.theNSPB.org.

POLAR ADVENTURE DAY

Enjoy a Polar Adventure Day Saturday, Feb. 29, from noon to 4 p.m. at Northerly Island Park, 1521 S. Linn White Dr., featuring a tour, Siberian huskies and other live animals, birds, snowshoeing, crafts, hot cocoa, and raffles. Call (312) 742-7529.

MARKET AND TOURS

The Plant, a facility home to farm and food-producing businesses,hosts an indoor farmers market at 1400 W. 46th St. the first Saturday of every month from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Go on tours of the Plant at 11:30 a.m. and 2 p.m. For information, log on to PlantChicago.org/market.

TREASURER NEWS

Cook County Treasurer Maria Pappas has opened a part-time office at the JLM Abundant Life Community Center, 2622 W. Jackson Blvd., to help homeowners with property tax questions.

Property owners can use cookcountytreasurer.com to search for $79 million in available tax refunds and avoid paying fees to lawyers and refund recovery firms that charge for a simple task that people can do for themselves, Pappas said. That website also has an application for seniors with an income of $55,000 or less enabling them to apply for a loan to pay their property taxes.

Call (312) 603-6202.

DEPRIEST HOME RESTORED

Landmarks Illinois received a grant from the National Park Service to restore the home of the late Oscar DePriest, Chicago’s first Black alderman, at 4536-38 S. King Dr. The apartment building earned landmark status in 1975. DePriest also served on the Cook County Board and in Congress. For Landmarks Illinois, log on to www.landmarks.org.

RUSH GENERATIONS

Rush Generations, a health and aging program, offers classes, screenings, support groups, and other programs for older adults and caregivers. On Tuesdays and Fridays from Feb. 4 through 28, Rush’s free A Matter of Balance workshop can help reduce your risk of falls (and fear of falling). If you have fallen in the past, have concerns about falling, or limit your activity because you’re worried about falls, this workshop is for you. You also might enjoy Gentle Yoga sessions on Thursdays from Feb. 13 through April 2, with poses you can do while standing, sitting in a chair, or sitting on the floor. The cost is $40 for eight sessions. Stop in for a free hearing screening on Thursday, Feb. 13, between 9 a.m. and noon. All programs take place on the Rush University Medical Center campus. For more information, call (888) 352-RUSH (7874).

FREE DAYS

The Shedd Aquarium,1200 S. Lake Shore Drive, is offering free admission for Illinois residents every weekday in February. The aquarium is open 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on weekdays, with extended hours until 9 p.m. on Friday, Feb. 17. Log on to www.sheddaquarium.org.

SHRINE NEWS

The Shrine of Our Lady of Pompeii will host its Winter Spirituality Series: Pilgrimage for the Planet on the Saturdays of Feb. 22 and March 28, 1:30 to 4 p.m.

It will hold a Valentine’s Day ’50s dance on Saturday, Feb. 15, from 6 to 11 p.m. Cost is $25 per person, with food and drink available, a DJ providing music, and a split the pot raffle; ’50s attire is optional.

Ash Wednesday, Feb. 26, distribution of ashes and Mass will be held at 7:30 a.m. and 6 p.m., and a Liturgy of the Word and distribution of ashes will be held at noon.

Lenten Bible study will be held the Wednesdays of Feb. 26, March 11 and 25, and April 8 and 22 from 6:45 to 8 p.m.

Stations of the Cross are scheduled for Fridays in Lent, Feb. 28 through April 10, at noon.

The shrine is located at 1224 W. Lexington St. Call (312) 421-3757 or log on to www.ourladyofpompeii.org for more information.

SLED HILL

The Soldier Field Sled Hill is open just south of the stadium at 18th Street and Museum Campus/Waldron Drive for snow sledding. Bring a plastic sled. Admission is free.

CLIMATE CHANGE

Spertus College will host a panel of experts discussing climate change on Tuesday, Feb. 25. Enjoy drinks and appetizers from 5 to 6:15 p.m., with the discussion beginning at 6:30 p.m. Purchase tickets at spertus.edu/conversation. The College is at 610 S. Michigan Ave.

TAYLOR-LAURIDSEN NEWS

Taylor-Lauridsen Park, 704 W. 42nd St., seeks new members for the pinochle club, which meets Thursdays at 10 a.m. New or experienced players welcome. 

For more information, call the park at (312) 747-6729. 

BARIATRIC SURGERY

UI Health offers a bariatric surgery program. Learn more at Bariatric.UIHealth.care.

TRAUMA HELPLINE

The toll-free TURN Trauma Counseling Helpline,(833) TURN123, operates from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday, Wednesday, and Friday. TURN stands for The Urban Resilience Network, and the helpline assists those experiencing trauma caused by exposure to violence. The organization also provides trained ambassadors to visit community events and schools to educate about trauma.

SAFE ZONE

Meeting online buyers or sellers in person now is a little safer for both UICpersonnel and the general public, thanks to the University of Illinois at Chicago Police. The department opened its district station front lobby to the public as a Safe Exchange Zone, where people can carry out legal swaps, sales, or purchases on campus as well as make child custody exchanges. Open 24 hours, the area has video surveillance and a seating area. The station is located at 943 W. Maxwell St., and parking is available.

SUMMERLAB

The University of Chicago Laboratory Schools will host Summer Lab, Monday, June 22, through Friday, July 31, featuring a day camp, theatre training, summer school, sports, dance, and recreation. Log on to SummerLab.org.

BLOOD NEEDED

Vitalant,the Chicago area’s largest blood center, is facing an emergency need for blood and platelets. To donate, visit vitalant.org or call (877) 258-4825.