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. Check websites or call to make sure if particular events have been postponed or canceled.

BETTER MENTAL HEALTH

The American Federation of State, County, and Municipal Employees Council 31 helped secure $6.3 million in the Chicago City Budget for 29 new positions in the City’s mental health clinics. This 73% increase in staffing is the biggest since former Mayor Rahm Emmanuel shuttered half of the clinics in 2011. For information, email [email protected]. 

PUBLIC SALARIES

The Better Government Association has compiled Illinois’s most comprehensive databaseto review, explore, and compare compensation for public employees throughout Illinois. See https://salary.bettergov.org/?.

B.I.G. BASEBALL

B.I.G. Baseball Academy, 4425 S. Western Blvd., is open to the public, offering eight indoor batting cages, batting cage rental, two pitching tunnels, a full workout area with weights and medicine balls, plyo walls with arm bands and weighted balls, wooden bats, facility rental, individual lessons, and group lessons. Memberships are available. Call (773) 397-1200 or log on to bigbaseballacademy.net.

GRANT AWARDED

The Bronzeville Historical Society earned a grant from the Gaylord and Dorothy Donnelly Foundation to have a metadata specialist organize and code the society’s collection to increase access. The society is located at 4455 S. King Dr. Call (312) 428-8033.

BLOOD DRIVE

A Valentine’s Day blood drive is scheduled for this community. Chicago Hope Academy and the American Red Cross will host a blood drive in the school’s chapel at 2189 W. Bowler St. on Monday, Feb. 14, from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Call the American Red Cross at 1 (800) 733-2767 or log on to redcrossblood.org, and learn how to get a $10 Amazon gift card for donating.

CBD KRATOM OPENS

CBD Kratom, the largest privately owned cannabis and kratom retail chain in the United States, has opened a shop at 643 W. Roosevelt Rd. in the South Loop. It held a grand opening weekend celebration Dec. 17 through 19. The company recently made gifts to support three local charities: the Anti Cruelty Society Animal Shelter, Project Fierce Chicago, and Resilience Chicago Sexual Assault Support as part of CBD Kratom’s Living Our Values campaign. Call (312) 508-8040.

LIBRARY NEWS

Chicago Public Library Commissioner Chris Brown and Mayor Lori Lightfoot recently announced CPL’s Sunday library service has expanded to an additional 24 sites. With these branches now opening on Sunday afternoons, every community in Chicago has access to library services seven days a week.

Harold Washington Library, 400 S. State St., now is home to a collection of 88 photos of Pilsen in the early 1990s taken by Japanese photographer Akito Tsuda. The collection is available for public viewing in the Special Collections Reading Room on the ninth floor. Appointments are required to view the photos noon through 4 p.m. Mondays and Fridays. Call (312) 747-4300.

CHICAGO HEALTHTEXT

Gazette Chicago frequently runs health-related articles as part of Chicago HealthText, a collaboration between DePaul University and Chicago Independent Media Alliance. See https://chihealthtext.org/ for more information. Do you have a healthcare or health-related issue you would like to see Gazette Chicago cover? Text (312) 487-2372 or (773) 969-9443, or text HEALTH to (312) 487-2372.

POLAR PLUNGE

The Chicago Polar Plunge, benefiting the athletes of the Special Olympics Chicago/Special Children’s Charities program, will return in person to North Avenue Beach on Sunday, March 6, with a virtual option available as well. Registration is open at www.chicagopolarplunge.org.

MENTAL HEALTH SERVICES

The Chinese American Service League, 2141 S. Tan Ct., has launched a mental health services program in Chinatown. The agency’s Behavioral Health and Clinical Services program will provide mental health evaluations, psychotherapy, and crisis response. The league created the program to address pandemic anxiety, depression, and mental health consequences of rising levels of anti-Asian hate affecting Asian American and Pacific Islander communities in the area. Log on to www.caslservice.org/.

CHURCH OF THE HOLY FAMILY

Church of the Holy Family, 1080 W. Roosevelt Rd., invites all to join the Saint Ignatius College Prep community for the following Masses: Fri., Feb. 4, 8:10 a.m., First Friday Mass; Wed., March 2, 8:10 a.m., Ash Wednesday Mass; and Fri., March 4, 8:10 a.m., First Friday Mass. For information, call (312) 492-8442.

COURT EXPANSION

Local Cook County Board Commissioners Alma Anaya (D-7th), Dennis Deer (D-2nd), and John P. Daley (D-11th) led the successful effort to expand county court services for domestic violence survivors. The board’s 2022 budget included amendments to address needs of Domestic Violence Court and to turn it into a 24-hour, seven-day-per-week operation. For more information, call Anaya’s office at (312) 989-2848.

DE LA SALLE NEWS

De La Salle Institute has named Marty Quinn as the new varsity head coach of the football program for the 2022 season. He most recently served as the defensive coordinator at St. John’s Catholic School in Plaquemine, LA. Quinn replaces Coach Michael Boehm, who will continue to teach and serve on the leadership team for De La Salle’s athletic program. The school also named Chris Goffer as the assistant head coach. Goffer played professional football for the Chicago Rush and the Chicago Slaughter.

The school is at 3434 S. Michigan Ave. Call (312) 842-7355 or log on to www.dls.org.

FIELD NEWS

The Field Museum is offering free admission days for Illinois residents on all Wednesdays in February. 

The museum’s newest exhibit, Jurassic Oceans: Monsters of the Deep, will take visitors on an underwater journey to see some of the creatures that called the oceans home during the Jurassic period. The exhibit will feature more than 100 fossils and models from the Jurassic period, including giant marine reptiles that resemble the Loch Ness monster. The exhibit opens Friday, Feb. 25, and runs through Friday, Sept. 5. 

The museum is at 1400 S. Lake Shore Dr. See www.fieldmuseum.org or call (312) 922-9410.

FREE COVID TESTING

Get free COVID testing, bothrapid antigen and PCR; PCR results sent within 24 hours. Gemini Labs is a City of Chicago-approved lab for onsite and in-home testing. The tests are Federally funded, so no insurance nor out-of-pocket costs required. Schedule group testing at schools (students and staff), work (employees or volunteers), and events (family, friends, and others). Call or text (872) 288-6587 to schedule a free test. 

GEM OF THE OCEAN

Goodman Theatre is presenting Gem of the Ocean,a play set in 1904 about Ester Tyler, an African-American woman providing spiritual guidance, though Sunday, Feb. 27. It also is presenting The Notebooks of Leonardo da Vinci Friday, Feb. 11, through Sunday, March 20. The theatre is at 170 N. Dearborn St. Call (312) 443-3800.

WATER BILL ASSISTANCE

The Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity recently announced the new $42 million Low-Income Household Water Assistance Plan, under the Help Illinois Families initiative, to help low-income families unable to pay water and sewer bills avoid shutoffs. Apply for assistance by contacting the real-time assistance hotline service at (833) 711-0374.

ENERGY ASSISTANCE

The Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program provides money from the Federal government to eligible ComEd customers with a one-time payment toward energy bills. Apply through LIHEAPillinois.com.

LUPUS SUPPORT GROUP

The Lupus Society of Illinois hosts a support group at Rush University Medical Center, Tower Resource Center, 1650 W. Harrison St., 4th floor, suite 04527. The group meets the second or third Saturday of the month. Call (312) 542-0002.

LYRIC NEWS

Lyric Opera of Chicago has hired Enrique Mazzola as its new music director. The orchestra will perform Verdi Voices on Sunday, Feb. 6, at 2 p.m. The opera house is at 20 N. Upper Wacker Dr. Call (312) 827-5600 or log on to www.lyricopera.org.

MALCOLM X COLLEGE NEWS

Malcolm X College and the City’s health department offer a free program that trains people to be a vaccine ambassador, engaging with others to encourage them to get vaccinated against COVID-19 and answer their questions about the vaccines. Log on to https://pages.ccc.edu/apply/mxvaccine/. The College is at 1900 W. Jackson Blvd.

The college and the University of Illinois Chicago have teamed up under a five-year, $1.2 million grant from the National Institutes of Health to support undergraduate students training in biomedical research during the last two years of their studies. The Bridges to the Baccalaureate grant will provide two-year traineeships annually to four underrepresented students who transfer to UIC from Malcolm X. For more information, call (312) 355-4133.

OUR LADY OF THE HOLY FAMILY NEWS

Our Lady of the Holy Family,1334 W. Flournoy St., holds Sunday Masses at 9 a.m. in English and 11 a.m. in Spanish. Saturday evening Mass is at 5 p.m. Mondays and Fridays, evening Mass is at 6 p.m. 

Praying the Rosary begins at 6:30 p.m. on Mondays. Adoration/holy hour and confessions begin at 6:30 p.m. on Fridays. Tuesday through Thursday Masses are at 8 a.m. in the chapel at 1335 W. Harrison St. 

OLHF now offers a Friday Food Pantry for area residents facing food shortages. Contact the parish office to register or come to the pantry from 1:30 to 3:30 p.m. on Fridays. The food pantry is located behind the church at 1334 W. Flournoy St.

Call (312) 243-7400, email [email protected], or log on to www.olhfchi.org.

PEPSI SCHOLARSHIPS

The PepsiCo Foundation launched its Community College Scholarship and Mentoring program for City Colleges of Chicago. The Success Matters in Life & Education (SMILE) program scholarship’s deadline to apply is Monday, Feb. 28. For more information, log on to https://learnmore.scholarsapply.org/pepsicosmile/. 

AMERICAN CONSPIRACY

Michael Polelle, a former Near West Side resident and a professor emeritus of the University of Illinois Chicago college of law, has written American Conspiracy, a political thriller mainly set on the Near West Side. For more about Polelle and his novel, visit www.mjpolelle.com.

HEAT HELP

U.S. Representative Bobby L. Rush (D-1st), Chair of the House Committee on Energy and Com-
merce’s Energy Subcommittee, announced that Illinois will receive a record $408.2 million in funding for the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) this fiscal year to help families afford energy costs. Illinois families who need assistance should call (877) 411-WARM (9276) or visit www.LIHEAPIllinois.com. For more details, contact Naomi Savin at (202) 716-6365.

SAINT IGNATIUS NEWS

Saint Ignatius College Prep students Lainie Bradley, Emma Penner, Mary Shea, and Elizabeth Unger hosted a drive to collect warm clothing for the organization Northside Latin Progress.

The school is located at 1076 W. Roosevelt Rd. Log on to www.ignatius.org or call (312) 421-5900.

BLACK HEROES OF FIRE

Glessner House, Quinn Chapel, and Friends of Historic Second Church will host a free Black History Month program on Sunday, Feb. 27, at 2 p.m. Black Heroes of Fire: The History of the First African American Fire Company in Chicago, will be presented by Dekalb Walcott Jr., author of the book of the same name, in honor of the 150th  anniversary of the establishment of Engine Company 21 in 1872. The program will take place at Second Presbyterian Church, 1936 S. Michigan Ave. Reservations not required. For more information, visit www.glessnerhouse.org.  

SHRINE NEWS

The Shrine of Our Lady of Pompeii is offering three concerts, Il Cinema, L’Opera,and Ommagio a Sinatra online through Sunday, Feb. 27. To order the concerts, call (312) 421-3757 or log on to www.givecentral.org/location/78/30968,30967,30966,30965.

The shrine is at 1224 W. Lexington St. Call (312) 421-3757.

SMOKEBALL DONATIONS

Smokeball, a legal practice management software firm at 200 W. Adams St., raised and donated $45,000 during its fourth annual Season of Giving program. The funds are going to Howard Brown Health, a community-based LGBTQIA organization, and Equip For Equality, a non-profit advancing the civil rights of people with disabilities; the donations will support these organizations’ longterm development and the public services they offer. Call (855) 688-3206. 

RAVI SHANKAR PROGRAMMING

South Asia Institute, 1925 S. Michigan Ave., will offer programming related to musician Ravi Shankar on Saturdays. On Feb. 19, at 4 p.m., author Oliver Craske will discuss his book Indian Sun: The Life and Music of Ravi Shankar.On Feb. 26 at 4 p.m., the institute will show the film Ravi and Anoushka Shankar Live in Bangalore. Log on to saichicago.org or call (312) 929-3911.

URBAN FARM GRANT

Urban Autism Solutions has won a $10,000 Capacity Building Grant from Advocates for Urban Agriculture. The award will enable UAS’s Growing Solutions Farm, a 1.2-acre urban farm at 1212 W. Flournoy St., to hire a second part-time farmer. Call (773) 377-5691.

SECRETARY OF STATE NEWS

Illinois Secretary of State Jesse White announced that Illinois has extended expiration dates for driver’s licenses and ID cards an additional three months to Thursday,  March 31. See www.ilsos.gov/.

The American Association of Motor Vehicle Administrators recently honored White by giving him the Region 3 Customer Convenience Award for his office’s web-based appointment system at select driver services facilities.

PEOPLE

Local resident Hannah Talcott has been named to Southern New Hampshire University’s fall 2021 President’s List.

ADDICTION HOTLINES

AddictionResource.net lists drug and alcohol abuse hotlines available 24 hours per day, seven days per week, and confidential. Log on to https://www.addictionresource.net/addiction-hotlines/ or call (844) 616-3400.

AMERICA’S WORKSHOP

Near West Side resident Peter Pero has written a book, Chicago: America’s Workshop.The book contains historical photos from companies such as Mars Candy, Motorola, Abbott Labs, Radio Flyer, and Rand McNally. Produced by Arcadia Publishing, it is available at bookstores and on bookseller websites. To contact Pero, email [email protected].

TUTORS NEEDED

Aquinas Literacy Center, 1751 W. 35th St., needs volunteer tutors to instruct adult learners with limited English proficiency. All instruction is one on one, and volunteers receive training. Tutoring can take place in-person, online over Zoom, or a hybrid of both. Knowledge of a second language is not required; all instruction is in English. For more information, contact Sabrina Poulin, volunteer coordinator, at (773) 927-0512 or email her at [email protected].

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. 

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.

BRIGHT STAR RESOURCES

Bright Star Community Outreach and Bright Star Church have a trauma helpline and provide professional development, emotional support, and child and family services. Log on to brightstarcommunityoutreach.com/. Donations welcome. The church is located at 4518 S. Cottage Grove Ave.

The toll-free Bright Star Community Outreachtrauma counseling helpline is(833) TURN123. The helpline assists those experiencing trauma caused by exposure to violence. 

BUCKNER RESOURCES

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

GET HELP

The Catholic Charities call center helps callers with a variety of needs and connects them toprograms within Catholic Charities or other agencies. 

The organization offers meals to go at St. Vincent Center, 721 N. LaSalle St., Monday through Friday at 4 p.m. No pre-registration required.

Catholic Charities operates several food pantries. 

A counseling/support hotline is available at (312) 948-6951. Catholic Charities also offers professional counseling at (312) 644-7725.

Log on to catholiccharities.net, call (312) 655-7700, or email [email protected].

JOB HELP

The Chicago Cook Workforce Partnership has expanded the youth and young adult services its network provides to this community. The partnership provides help for young adults seeking employment, training, and career pathway opportunities at the American Job Center (AJC) at 1700 W. 18th St. Services are offered by appointment only. Call (773) 318-2224.

CUBS BOOK

Gazette Chicago associate editor William S. Bike has authored a book about the 1970 Chicago Cubs season, The Forgotten 1970 Chicago Cubs: Go and Glow. 

For more information, go to www.1970chicagocubs.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. Call (312) 747-0327.

SEEKING YOUNG LEADERS

Chicago Votes offers the Civic Leaders Program, a leadership development program for young people who have experienced incarceration, training them to serve as leaders in the organization’s legislative advocacy, court watching, and voter registration efforts. Chicago Votes is located at 234 S. Wabash Ave. Log on to https://chicagovotes.com.

GET VACCINATED

The Chicago Department of Public Health is hosting multiple coronavirus (COVID-19) vaccination special events across the city. Anyone age 12 and older can get vaccinated. All COVID-19 vaccines are free, and no insurance or ID is required. See the full list of special vaccine events at www.chicago.gov/vaxcalendar. 

RIGHT TO RETURN

Former Chicago Housing Authority residents who were displaced by the CHA’s Plan for Transformation and who want to return to the CHA may receive help from Antwain Miller at the Lugenia Burns Hope Center.Call (773) 291-8621 or email antwain.mille[email protected]. The center is located at 710 E. 47th Street.

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.

VETS’ EXEMPTIONS

Cook County Assessor Fritz Kaegi’s office provides property tax exemptions for veterans with disabilities and returning veterans. Log on to cookcountyassessor.com or call (312) 443-7550.

RENTER AND LANDLORD HELP

If you are a renter having trouble paying your rent, utilities, or other housing costs, or if you are a landlord trying to stay afloat, help may be available. State and local programs are distributing dollars for such needs. Visit the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau in rental assistance to help renters stay housed during the pandemic. Visit the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau at consumerfinance.gov to find programs. See also ChiCookilRentHelp.org or call (833) 221-9821.

LEGAL AID

Cook County officials and partners run Cook County Legal Aid for Housing and Debt, a county-wide initiative to help residents resolve eviction, foreclosure, debt, and tax deed issues. Services are provided pro bono for Cook County residents without legal representation and are offered to tenants facing eviction, landlords dealing with an eviction, debtors being sued for unpaid debts, creditors wishing to sue based on unpaid debts, and residents who have defaulted on property tax payments or mortgage foreclosure payments. Learn more by visiting www.cookcountylegalaid.org/.

CORONAVIRUS VACCINATION

Any Chicagoan can request an in-home vaccination for coronavirus (COVID-19) by calling the City of Chicago at (312) 746-4835. Or, find out where to get vaccinated from the State of Illinois by calling (800) 889-3931 or logging on to https://coronavirus.illinois.gov/.

NEW ARTISTS

Elephant Room Gallery, 704 S. Wabash Ave., presents new exhibitions of the work of new and emerging Chicago-based artists every four-to-six weeks. Log on to www.elephantroomgallery.com.

FOOD PANTRIES

The following food pantries provide groceries and meals to those who need them.

Chosen Tabernacle Full Gospel, 4310 S. Champlain Ave., Thursday, 1 to 3 p.m., (888) 834-9414.

Church of St. Paul and the Redeemer, 4945 S. Dorchester Ave., Wednesday, 3:30 to 5:30 p.m., (773) 624-3185.

Hyde Park SDA Soup Kitchen, 4608 S. Drexel Blvd., Wednesday, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., (773) 373-2909.

Kenwood Oakland Community Organization, 4242 S. Cottage Grove Ave., Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday, 9:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., (773) 548-7500.

Kenwood UCC Soup Kitchen, 4608 S. Greenwood Ave., Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday, 9:30 to 10 a.m. and noon to 1 p.m., (773) 373-2861.

Operation Pull Grant Memorial, 4017 S. Drexel Blvd., Tuesday, 1 to 3 p.m., (773) 285-5819.

Our Lady of the Holy Family, 1334 W. Flournoy St. (enter from parking lot behind the church), Friday, 1:30 to 3:30 p.m., (312) 243-7400.

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 [email protected] for a calendar of upcoming events.

EPIPHANY CENTER

The Epiphany Center for the Arts,201 S. Ashland Ave., is presenting two art shows: Agave! Runs through Saturday, April 9, and Like Queer Animals-We Hold Your Gaze runs through Saturday, Feb. 19. Log on to www.epiphanychi.com.

FGWTP JOB TRAINING

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

HARMONY NEWS

Harmony Community Church, 1908 S. Millard Ave., has a community center for youth programs and events. The church offers reading, tutoring, fine art, music, and dance programs. It also has a food pantry. Call (773) 762-9673.

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. 

SUNDAY SERVICES

Sixth Grace Presbyterian Church,600 E. 35th St., holds Sunday worship services at 11 a.m. Call (312) 225-5300.

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.

SUICIDE PREVENTION

The Jason Foundation offers free suicide prevention training to educators, other school staff, parents, physicians, clergy, community leaders, and students. Log on to www.jasonfoundation.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.

DISCOUNT PHONE, INTERNET

Under the Federal Lifeline Program,low-income consumers and veterans can receive a discount off their monthly bills for phone, broadband, or bundled phone and broadband service. See http://linkupillinois.org, call (312) 914-6701, or email [email protected].

FIGHT OPIOID ABUSE

Malcolm X College invites individuals to become community health workers to help fight the opioid crisis. Using a $2.1 million grant from the Health Resources and Services Administration, the college launched the Opioid-Impacted Family Support Program to bring care and relief to neighborhoods most affected by opioid use disorder. The University of Illinois Chicago Department of Disability and Human Development is partnering in this four-year initiative. Scholarships are available. For more information and to register for the program, visit www.ccc.edu/opioid.

FREE RIDE

Mount Sinai Hospital, 1500 S. Fairfield Ave., offers free rides for patients to get to and from any medical appointment within the Sinai Chicago system. All residents in Sinai Chicago’s service area who need to get to any of the medical system’s hospitals, clinics, or offices for any procedure, check-up, or health appointment can now get free, door-to-door transportation services. Patients can book a ride by calling (630) 903-2949.

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.

MENTAL HEALTH

The National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) Chicago offers support groups and other resources for individuals who may need help. Call (833) 626-4244 or visit www.namichicago.org. 

GAS BILL HELP

For Peoples Gas customers, bill payment assistance is available through the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program and the Share the Warmth program. To see if you are eligible and apply, call the Community Economic Development Association at (800) 571-2332 or go to cedarorg.net.

SOCIAL HEALTH INITIATIVE

The Pilsen Social Health Initiative at 1850 S. Throop St. offers a food pantry, thrift store, and onsite social worker. See www.pilsensocialhealthinitiative.com/. Call (773) 812-3150.

BACK TO BUSINESS

Governor JB Pritzker and the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity have launched the $250 million Back to Business grant program to support small businesses’ continued recovery. See www2.illinois.gov/dceo/SmallBizAssistance/Pages/B2B.aspx.

By William S. Bike

AFFORDABLE CARE

The open enrollment period for the Affordable Care Act runs from now to Saturday, Jan. 15. Log on to www.healthcare.gov.

ART INSTITUTE

The Art Institute of Chicago,111 S. Michigan Ave., is presenting the show Barbara Kruger: Thinking of You. I Mean Me, I Mean You, through Monday, Jan. 24, and art by Ray Johnson through Monday, March 21. Log on to www.artic.edu.

ARC GALLERY

At the ARC Gallery, 1463 W. Chicago Ave., the exhibition Go Make a Thing! runs through Saturday, Dec. 18. Call (312) 877-5760.

The gallerywill host the exhibition Body Politics from Sunday, Jan. 6, through Saturday, Jan. 19. 

See www.arcgallery.org or call (312) 877-5760.

BRIDGEPORT ART

Bridgeport Art Center, 1200 W. 35th St., is hosting the shows Vibrant Mechanisms, Kinetic & Sound through Friday, Jan. 7, and Art Talk through Saturday, Jan. 8. Log on to www.bridgeportart.com.

BROOKS HONORED

The Chicago Public Library Foundation honored Bronzeville-based playwright J. Nicole Brooks with its 21st Century Award for her contributions to the local cultural landscape.

HOLIDAY TEA PARTY

Chicago Children’s Theatre is presenting the Beatrix Potter Holiday Tea Party, weekends only, from now through Sunday, Dec. 19, with special performances on Thursday and Frida, Dec. 23 and 24. Regular show times and holiday show times are Saturday and Sunday at 9:30 a.m. and 11:30 a.m. For information log on to chicagochildrenstheatre.org or call (312) 374-8835. The theatre is at 100 S. Racine Ave.

JOB HELP

The Chicago Cook Workforce Partnership is expanding the youth and young adult services its network provides to this community. The partnership provides help for young adults seeking employment, training, and career pathway opportunities at the American Job Center (AJC) at 1700 W. 18th St. Services are offered by appointment only. Call (773) 318-2224.

CPS NEWS

The Chicago Public Schools has added three area schools to its Opportunity Schools Initiative, which provides dedicated teacher recruitment and retention support to schools that have had difficulty attracting and retaining educators. The three are William H. Brown Elementary, 54 N. Hermitage Ave., Robert Nathaniel Dett Elementary, 2131 W. Monroe St., and Edward Tilden Career Community Academy High, 4747 S. Union Ave. 

The CPS announced a record high five-year graduation rate of 83.8%, up by nearly 27 percentage points from 2011 when the rate was 56.9 percent. The four-year rate saw a similar gain, increasing 26 percentage points in the same time span. Increased graduation rates among students of all racial groups led to the overall gain.

For more information, call (773) 553-1000.

COMMUNITY ORGANIZER

The Coalition for a Better Chinese American Community has named Coral Wu, an expert on environmental justice and tourism as cultural activism, as its community organizer. Coalition headquarters is at 2301 S. Archer Ave. See https://cbcacchicago.org/ or call (312) 761-9738.

COUNTY FINANCES UPGRADED

Fitch Ratings has upgraded Cook County’s credit ratings from A+ to AA-, with a stable outlook. Standard and Poor’s also moved the outlook for the County to stable from negative, and Moody’s reaffirmed its rating as well. “We appreciate the recognition of our improvement in operating results, work to increase reserves, sound financial management, notable improvement in pension funding, and work to stabilize our health system’s finances,” said Toni Preckwinkle, board president. For more information, see www.cookcountyil.gov/board-of-commissioners.

VETS’ EXEMPTIONS

Cook County Assessor Fritz Kaegi’s office provides property tax exemptions for veterans with disabilities and returning veterans. Log on to cookcountyassessor.com or call (312) 443-7550.

ART EXHIBIT

Corbett vs. Dempsey Gallery,2156 W. Fulton St., is exhibiting artworks by Rachel Harrison through Saturday, Jan. 8. Call (773) 278-1664 or log on to corbettvsdempsey.com.

FOXX BEATS SAM’S CLUB

Cook County State’s Attorney Kim Foxx secured a $266 million award against Sam’s Club for failure to pay taxes on the sale of cigarettes as required under the County’s Tobacco Tax Ordinance. The uncollected taxes cover a seven-year period between 2009 and 2016. See www.cookcountystatesattorney.org.

DE LA SALLE NEWS

De La Salle Institute will host its entrance and placement examination Saturday, Dec. 4, at 8 a.m.

The school is at 3434 S. Michigan Ave. Call (312) 842-7355 or log on to www.dls.org.

EPIPHANY CENTER

The Epiphany Center for the Arts,201 S. Ashland Ave., is presenting two art shows: Agave! runs through Saturday, April 9, and Like Queer Animals-We Hold Your Gaze is up from Friday, Dec. 10, through Saturday, Feb. 19. This month, see Negatives, featuring enlarged photographic negatives by Rod Slemmons, through Friday, Dec. 31. Log on to www.epiphanychi.com.

NEXT GAZETTE CHICAGO

Gazette Chicago does not publish in January, so the next issue will come out on Feb. 4, 2022. Deadline for news will be Wednesday, Jan. 19, and deadline for advertising will be Friday, Jan. 21. See www.gazettechicago.com for additional news stories in January.

WHITE COAT

Gray Warehouse,2044 W. Carroll Ave. is hosting White Coat, an art show by Alex Katz, through Friday, Dec. 17. See www.richardgraygallery.com.

TREE LIGHTING

Greektown’s annual holiday tree lighting ceremony will be held Sunday, Dec. 12, from 3 to 4 p.m. at Elysian Field, southeast corner of Halsted and Van Buren Streets, including complimentary hot chocolate and sweets. As the tree illuminates, youngsters will sing traditional Greek Christmas carols, and DJ Yianni will play Greek and American holiday tunes. The event is sponsored by Greektown SSA #16 with additional support from the Greektown Chamber of Commerce and Chicago Greektown Educational Foundation.

FINE ART

Bert Green Fine Art,8 S. Michigan Ave., is presenting art by Richard Haley through Friday, Dec. 17. Log on to www.bgfa.us.

RENTAL ASSISTANCE

A program to help people pay rent during the pandemic, the Illinois Rental Payment Program,will accept applications online from Monday, Dec. 6, though Sunday, Jan. 9, at https://www.illinoishousinghelp.org. People who apply must have an unpaid rent balance and have experienced financial hardship due to the pandemic, among other eligibility requirements. Renters needing immediate help can contact the Illinois Department of Human Services at www.illinoisrentalassistance.org/.

MC CORMICK GALLERY

McCormick Gallery,835 W. Washington Blvd., is hosting an art show by Dusti Bonge through Saturday, Jan. 8. Log on to www.thomasmccormick.com.

CRUZ ART

Monique Meloche Gallery,451 N. Paulina St., is showcasing works by David Antonio Cruz through Saturday, Dec. 18. See www.moniquemeloche.com.

NEWMAN LEGISLATION

Congressional Representative Marie Newman (D-3rd) had two of her bills included in the recent infrastructure package. The All Stations Accessibility Program will provide funds to help public transit meet or exceed accessibility standards. The Rail Center for Excellence legislation will support research on rail safety and efficiency. See https://newman.house.gov/.

OUR LADY OF THE HOLY FAMILY NEWS

Our Lady of the Holy Family,1334 W. Flournoy St., holds Sunday Masses at 9 a.m. in English and 11 a.m. in Spanish. Saturday evening Mass is at 5 p.m. Mondays and Fridays, evening Mass is at 6 p.m. 

Praying the Rosary begins at 6:30 p.m. on Mondays. Adoration/Holy Hour and Confessions begin at 6:30 p.m. on Fridays. Tuesday through Thursday Masses are at 8 a.m. in the chapel at 1335 W. Harrison St. 

OLHF now offers a Friday Food Pantry for area residents facing food shortages. Contact the parish office to register or come to the pantry from 1:30 to 3:30 p.m. on Fridays. The food pantry is located behind the church at 1334 W. Flournoy St.

Call (312) 243-7400, email [email protected] or log on to www.olhfchi.org.

ILLINOIS TECH HONORED

SmartAsset, a company centered around financial advice, has released its seventh annual study on the colleges that give students the best return on their educational investment. The Illinois Institute of Technology came in second in the state. For more information, log on to smartasset.com.

COMMUNITY GARDEN COMING

J.P. Paulus and his wife, Sythera Pride-Paulus, are turning a lot they own at 440 E. 46th St. into a community garden. It will open this spring.

FIX THE EISENHOWER

Following passage of the  Federal Bipartisan Infrastructure Plan, Illinois House Speaker Emanuel “Chris” Welch and Senate President Don Harmon joined the Rebuild 290 Coalition to call for Federal funds to speed up reconstruction of the Eisenhower Expressway (Interstate 290) from Hillside to the Byrne Interchange and the Chicago Transit Authority’s Blue Line. Both legislative chambers passed Senate Joint Resolution 31, which requested Federal support to expedite engineering and construction. For information, email [email protected].

ST. BASIL SERVICES

St. Basil Greek Orthodox Church, 733 S. Ashland Ave., will hold the following services this month culminating in Christmas and Hierarchal Vespers and Divine Liturgy services for its patron saint, St. Basil the Great. All services are conducted in English and Greek.

Sundays: Orthros 8:30 a.m. and Divine Liturgy 9:45 a.m.

Monday, Dec. 6, Divine Liturgy for St. Nicholas, Orthros 9 a.m. and Divine Liturgy 10 a.m.

Monday through Friday, Dec. 13 to 17, Divine Liturgy, 9:30 a.m.

Friday, Dec. 24, Royal Hours of Christmas, 8:30 a.m. Liturgy of Christmas Eve, 6 p.m.

Saturday, Dec. 25, Christmas Day, Orthros 8:30 a.m. and Divine Liturgy 9:45 a.m.

Friday, Dec. 31, Hierarchal Great Vespers of the Circumcision and St. Basil the Great, 7 p.m.

Saturday, Jan. 1, Hierarchal Orthros 8:30 a.m. and Divine Liturgy 9:45 a.m. for the Circumcision and St. Basil the Great.

St. Basil also will host open prayer hours each Thursday through Dec. 23 from noon to 2 p.m. to provide area residents, staff, and visitors to the Medical District a quiet place to pray, meditate, reflect, and light candles for their loved ones.

For more information call the church office at (312) 243-3738.

SAINT IGNATIUS NEWS

Saint Ignatius College Prep presented a framed certificate of recognition on Nov. 17 to Richard von Langen, whose great-great-grandfather, Hermann von Langen, from 1867 through 1869 designed the building that houses the school, at the request of Rev. Arnold Damen, S.J., founder and president of St. Ignatius College. For years, the building’s architect had been unknown, until historical research discovered Hermann von Langen’s design. 

The school is located at 1076 W. Roosevelt Rd. Log on to www.ignatius.org or call (312) 421-5900.

CHURCH NEEDS

St. Matthew Lutheran Church needs donations of money, materials, and workers to repair the church, which the City has charged with 11 building code violations. The church is at 2108 W. 21st St. Call (773) 847-6458.

RAVI SHANKAR PROGRAMMING

South Asia Institute, 1925 S. Michigan Ave., will offer programming related to musician Ravi Shankar on Saturdays. On Dec. 11 at 4 p.m., it will show the movies Sangeet Ratna (Jewel of Music) and Ravi Shankar’s Music Festival from India.On Jan. 8 at 4 p.m., it will host a musical workshop, Learning the Ravi Way with Sitarist Gaurav Mazumdar. On Jan. 15 at 7:30 p.m., it will present an Indian classical music concert, and on Jan. 29 at 4 p.m. it will show the film Tenth Decade: Live in Escondido about a Shankar concert. Log on to saichicago.org or call (312) 929-3911.

MARY AND CHRISTMAS

The Shrine of Our Lady of Pompeii will host its Mary and Christmas concert on Saturday, Dec. 4, both in person and livestreamed. Doors open at 7:15 p.m., with the concert beginning at 7:45 p.m. A variety of ticket prices are available. Register at www.ourladyofpompeii.org.

The shrine will explore four classical hymns of Advent and Christmas on four Saturdays, 10:30 a.m. to noon. On Dec. 4, the Rev. Richard Fragomeni will lecture on O Come, Divine Messiah. On Dec. 11, chaplain Julie Berggren will speak on O Come, O Come, Emmanuel. On Dec. 18, Br. Antony Julius will explore Like the Dawning of the Morning. On Jan. 8, Catharine M. Lentz, an adult faith formation expert, will address O Little Town of Bethlehem. Registration required.

The shrine is at 1224 W. Lexington St. Call (312) 421-3757.

SUNDAY SERVICES

Sixth Grace Presbyterian Church, 600 E. 35th St., holds Sunday worship services at 11 a.m. Call (312) 225-5300.

TODD RUNDGREN VISITS MAYOR

Mayor Lori Lightfoot invited rock ‘n’ roll musician Todd Rundgren and his Spirit of Harmony Foundation to City Hall to discuss music education advocacy. Spirit of Harmony is a national organization founded by Rundgren and his fans to promote music education for children. For information, log on to https://spiritofharmony.org/.

SUPER CITIES CHICAGO

Super Cities Chicago is a new book by Mark Shulman that offers fun information about what makes Chicago super. From having the first skyscraper to info about great pizza, the el, and Lake Michigan and a look at the Taylor Street/Little Italy area, the book is chock full of fun facts for readers ages seven and up. The book is $14.99 and is available from Arcadia publishing at www.arcadiapublishing.com or (888) 313-2665.

JESSE WHITE NEWS

Secretary of State and State Librarian Jesse White is encouraging students in grades four through 12 to enter the Letters About Literature in Illinois reading and writing competition, offered by the Illinois State Library’s Illinois Center for the Book. The competition invites students to read a book of their choice and write a letter to the author about how the work changed their life or view of the world. For more information about the competition, contact Bonnie Matheis at (217) 558-2065 or [email protected]. Information also is available at ilsos.gov/departments/library/center_for_the_book/.  

White announced the Illinois Secretary of State’s office has changed its official web address from cyberdriveillinois.com to ILSOS.gov.

SMALL WORKS

Woman Made Gallery,2150 S. Canalport Ave., Suite 4A3, will have a show of Small Works from Thursday, Dec. 2, through Monday, Dec. 20. Art by Gazette Chicago Assistant Editor Anne Nordhaus-Bike is included in the show. Art on display has been curated to showcase pieces sized and priced perfectly for gift shopping during this holiday season. Call (312) 738-0400 or log on to womanmade.org.

ADDICTION HOTLINES

AddictionResource.net lists drug and alcohol abuse hotlines available 24 hours per day, seven days per week, and confidential. Log on to https://www.addictionresource.net/addiction-hotlines/ or call (844) 616-3400.

TUTORS NEEDED

Aquinas Literacy Center, 1751 W. 35th St., needs volunteer tutors to instruct adult learners with limited English proficiency. All instruction is one on one, and volunteers receive training. Tutoring can take place in-person, online over Zoom, or a hybrid of both. Knowledge of a second language is not required; all instruction is in English. For more information, contact Sabrina Poulin, volunteer coordinator, at (773) 927-0512 or email her at [email protected].

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. 

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.

BRIGHT STAR RESOURCES

Bright Star Community Outreach and Bright Star Church have a trauma helpline and provide professional development, emotional support, and child and family services. Log on to brightstarcommunityoutreach.com/. Donations welcome. The church is located at 4518 S. Cottage Grove Ave.

The toll-free Bright Star Community Outreachtrauma counseling helpline is(833) TURN123. The helpline assists those experiencing trauma caused by exposure to violence. 

BRONZEVILLE ART TOUR

The Bronzeville Art District Art Tour is the third Friday of every month, in person and virtually, from 7 to 8 p.m. Next date is Dec. 17. Participating galleries are Blanc Gallery, Bronzeville Artists Lofts, Faie Afrikan Art, Gallery Guichard, and the South Side Community Art Center. Log on to Bit.ly/bronzevillearttour.

BUCKNER RESOURCES

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

GET HELP

The Catholic Charities call center helps callers with a variety of needs and connects them toprograms within Catholic Charities or other agencies. 

The organization offers meals to go at St. Vincent Center, 721 N. LaSalle St., Monday through Friday at 4 p.m. No pre-registration required.

Catholic Charities operates several food pantries. 

A counseling/support hotline is available at (312) 948-6951. Catholic Charities also offers professional counseling at (312) 644-7725.

Log on to catholiccharities.net, call (312) 655-7700, or email [email protected].

GET VACCINATED

The Chicago Department of Public Health is hosting multiple coronavirus (COVID-19) vaccination special events across the city. Anyone age 12 and older can get vaccinated. All COVID-19 vaccines are free, and no insurance or ID is required. See the full list of special vaccine events at www.chicago.gov/vaxcalendar. 

CUBS BOOK

Gazette Chicago associate editor William S. Bike has authored a book about the 1970 Chicago Cubs season, The Forgotten 1970 Chicago Cubs: Go and Glow. 

For more information, go to www.1970chicagocubs.com. 

SEEKING YOUNG LEADERS

Chicago Votes offers the Civic Leaders Program, a leadership development program for young people who have experienced incarceration, training them to serve as leaders in the organization’s legislative advocacy, court watching, and voter registration efforts. Chicago Votes is located at 234 S. Wabash Ave. Log on to https://chicagovotes.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. Call (312) 747-0327.

RIGHT TO RETURN

Former Chicago Housing Authority residents who were displaced by the CHA’s Plan for Transformation and who want to return to the CHA may receive help from Antwain Miller at the Lugenia Burns Hope Center.Call (773) 291-8621 or email antwain.mille[email protected]. The center is located at 710 E. 47th Street.

RENTER AND LANDLORD HELP

If you are a renter having trouble paying your rent, utilities, or other housing costs, or if you are a landlord trying to stay afloat, help may be available. State and local programs are distributing dollars for such needs. Visit the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau in rental assistance to help renters stay housed during the pandemic. Visit the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau at consumerfinance.gov to find programs. See also ChiCookilRentHelp.org or call (833) 221-9821.

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.

CORONAVIRUS VACCINATION

Any Chicagoan can request an in-home vaccination for coronavirus (COVID-19) by calling the City of Chicago at (312) 746-4835. Or, find out where to get vaccinated from the State of Illinois by calling (800) 889-3931 or logging on to https://coronavirus.illinois.gov/.

LEGAL AID

Cook County officials and partners run Cook County Legal Aid for Housing and Debt, a county-wide initiative to help residents resolve eviction, foreclosure, debt, and tax deed issues. Services are provided pro bono for Cook County residents without legal representation and are offered to tenants facing eviction, landlords dealing with an eviction, debtors being sued for unpaid debts, creditors wishing to sue based on unpaid debts, and residents who have defaulted on property tax payments or mortgage foreclosure payments. Learn more by visiting www.cookcountylegalaid.org/.

NEW ARTISTS

Elephant Room Gallery, 704 S. Wabash Ave., presents new exhibitions of the work of new and emerging Chicago-based artists every four-to-six weeks. Log on to www.elephantroomgallery.com.

FOOD PANTRIES

The following food pantries provide groceries and meals to those who need them.

Chosen Tabernacle Full Gospel, 4310 S. Champlain Ave., Thursday, 1 to 3 p.m., (888) 834-9414.

Church of St. Paul and the Redeemer, 4945 S. Dorchester Ave., Wednesday, 3:30 to 5:30 p.m., (773) 624-3185.

Hyde Park SDA Soup Kitchen, 4608 S. Drexel Blvd., Wednesday, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., (773) 373-2909.

Kenwood Oakland Community Organization, 4242 S. Cottage Grove Ave., Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday, 9:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., (773) 548-7500.

Kenwood UCC Soup Kitchen, 4608 S. Greenwood Ave., Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday, 9:30 to 10 a.m. and noon to 1 p.m., (773) 373-2861.

Operation Pull Grant Memorial, 4017 S. Drexel Blvd., Tuesday, 1 to 3 p.m., (773) 285-5819.

Our Lady of the Holy Family, 1334 W. Flournoy St. (enter from parking lot behind the church), Friday, 1:30 to 3:30 p.m., (312) 243-7400.

EVICTION HELP

Get free legal assistance through Eviction Help Illinois by visiting evictionhelpillinois.org or calling (855) 631-0811.

GWTP JOB TRAINING

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

HARMONY NEWS

Harmony Community Church, 1908 S. Millard Ave., has a community center for youth programs and events. The church offers reading, tutoring, fine art, music, and dance programs. It also has a food pantry. Call (773) 762-9673.

HR HOTSEAT

HRHotSeat 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 [email protected] 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. 

ERC EXTENDED

The Internal Revenue Service extended the Employee Retention Tax Credit forall of 2021, and more businesses qualify under the eligibility requirements. ERC is a tax credit the IRS implemented last year as a temporary coronavirus relief provision to help businesses keep employees on the payroll. See www.irs.gov/coronavirus/employee-retention-credit.

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.

SUICIDE PREVENTION

The Jason Foundation offers free suicide prevention training to educators, other school staff, parents, physicians, clergy, community leaders, and students. Log on to www.jasonfoundation.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.

DISCOUNT PHONE, INTERNET

Under the Federal Lifeline Program,low-income consumers and veterans can receive a discount off their monthly bills for phone, broadband, or bundled phone and broadband service. See http://linkupillinois.org, call (312) 914-6701, or email [email protected].

FIGHT OPIOID ABUSE

Malcolm X College invites individuals to become community health workers to help fight the opioid crisis. Using a $2.1 million grant from the Health Resources and Services Administration, the college launched the Opioid-Impacted Family Support Program to bring care and relief to neighborhoods most affected by opioid use disorder. The University of Illinois Chicago Department of Disability and Human Development is partnering in this four-year initiative. Scholarships are available. For more information and to register for the program, visit www.ccc.edu/opioid.

FREE RIDE

Mount Sinai Hospital, 1500 S. Fairfield Ave., offers free rides for patients to get to and from any medical appointment within the Sinai Chicago system. All residents in Sinai Chicago’s service area who need to get to any of the medical system’s hospitals, clinics, or offices for any procedure, check-up, or health appointment can now get free, door-to-door transportation services. Patients can book a ride by calling (630) 903-2949.

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.

MENTAL HEALTH

The National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) Chicago offers support groups and other resources for individuals who may need help. Call (833) 626-4244 or visit www.namichicago.org. 

GAS BILL HELP

For Peoples Gas customers, bill payment assistance is available through the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program and the Share the Warmth program. To see if you are eligible and apply, call the Community Economic Development Association at (800) 571-2332 or go to cedarorg.net.

SOCIAL HEALTH INITIATIVE

The Pilsen Social Health Initiative at 1850 S. Throop St. offers a food pantry, thrift store, and onsite social worker. See www.pilsensocialhealthinitiative.com/. Call (773) 812-3150.

BACK TO BUSINESS

Governor JB Pritzker and the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity have launched the $250 million Back to Business grant program to support small businesses’ continued recovery. See www2.illinois.gov/dceo/SmallBizAssistance/Pages/B2B.aspx.

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.

COURT EXPANSION

Local Cook County Board Commissioners Alma Anaya (D-7th), Dennis Deer (D-2nd), and John P. Daley (D-11th) led the successful effort to expand county court services for domestic violence survivors. The board’s 2022 budget included amendments to address needs of Domestic Violence Court and to turn it into a 24-hour, seven-day-per-week operation. For more information, call Anaya’s office at (312) 989-2848.

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 [email protected].

By William S. Bike

ADDICTION HOTLINES

AddictionResource.net lists drug and alcohol abuse hotlines available 24 hours per day, seven days per week, and confidential. Log on to https://www.addictionresource.net/addiction-hotlines/ or call (844) 616-3400.

FESTIVAL OF LIFE

The African/Caribbean International Festival of Life will be held in Washington Park, 5531 S. King Dr., Saturday and Sunday, Sept. 11 and 12. See internationalfestivaloflife.com.

ART OF BANKSY

An exhibition of more than 80 of his works at 360 N. State St. is honoring street artist Banksy through Sunday, Oct. 31. Ticket prices start at $39.99. Log on to banksyexhibit.com for more information.

STUDENT LOAN EXTENSION

The Biden Administration has extended a pause on federal student loan payments to Monday, Jan. 31. The pause was set to expire on Thursday, Sept. 30. See www.studentaid.gov.

SCALABRINI WINDOW

Casa Italia, 1621 N. 39th Ave., Stone Park, IL, will unveil a stained-glass window of Bishop John Scalabrini at 7 p.m. on Friday, Sept. 24. Refreshments will be served. Attorney John J. Lag provided the window, which he bought at Festa Pasta Vino in the Heart of Chicago community; Paul P. Rubino, MD, is funding the window’s restoration. The window’s origin remains a mystery. After the unveiling, the window will go to the Scalabrini Museum in the Italian Cultural Center. Call (708) 345-5399 to reserve a spot at the Sept. 24 event or to provide information about the window’s history.

CUBS BOOK

Gazette Chicago associate editor William S. Bike has written a book about the 1970 Chicago Cubs season, The Forgotten 1970 Chicago Cubs: Go and Glow. 

Meet the author at Madison Street Books,1127 W. Madison St., during a book signing from 1 to 3 p.m. on Sunday, Sept. 26. The event includes an author talk, which will start at 2 p.m. Call (312) 929-4140.

For more information, go to www.1970chicagocubs.com. 

EAT YOUR VEGGIES

Chicago Vegandale, a vegan food festival, will be held on Butler Field in Grant Park, south Lake Shore Drive at east Monroe Street, Saturday, Sept. 11, 1 to 9 p.m. See vegandalefest.com.

PARK PROGRAMS

Chicago Women’s Park & Gardens will host Rise to Shine Yoga on Saturday, Sept. 11, at 9:15 a.m. Register at https://www.eventbrite.com/e/154432280107.

Bridge Club for people age 60 and beyond will be held 1 to 3 p.m. on Fridays from Sept. 17 through Dec. 10. 

Circuit training for ages 18 and up will be held on Tuesdays from Sept. 14 through Dec. 7 and Thursdays from Sept. 16 through Dec. 9.

Kiddie College for three- and four-year-olds will be held Monday, Wednesday, and Friday, 8:30 to 10:30 a.m., from Monday, Sept. 13, through Friday, Dec. 10; and for four- and five-year-olds those same dates from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. 

Sign up at https://www.chicagoparkdistrict.com/parks-facilities/chicago-womens-park-and-gardens.

The park is at 1827 S. Indiana Ave.

RENTER AND LANDLORD HELP

If you are a renter having trouble paying your rent, utilities, or other housing costs, or if you are a landlord trying to stay afloat, help may be available. State and local programs are distributing dollars for such needs. Visit the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau in rental assistance to help renters stay housed during the pandemic. Visit the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau at consumerfinance.gov to find programs.

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.

BRONZEVILLE PARTNERSHIP

PepsiCo partnered with Bronze-ville restaurant Two Fish Crab Shack,641 E. 47th St., to offer a one-day Free Fried Shrimp Friday for the local community on Aug. 13. At the event, PepsiCo presented a $15,000 donation to Chicago nonprofit organization Polished Pebbles,which seeks to eliminate the “hope gap” experienced by young Chicago women of color who are navigating structural barriers and community violence by providing supportive services, education, and employment opportunities. For information, call Jessica Ortiz at (312) 550-0102.

CORONAVIRUS VACCINATION

Any Chicagoan can request an in-home vaccination for coronavirus (COVID-19) by calling the City of Chicago at (312) 746-4835. Or, find out where to get vaccinated from the State of Illinois by calling (833) 621-1284 or logging on to https://coronavirus.illinois.gov/.

DE LA SALLE NEWS

De La Salle Institute will hold open houses on Wednesday, Oct. 20, from 6 to 8 p.m., and Saturday, Nov. 13, from 9 a.m. to noon. The school’s entrance exam is scheduled for Saturday, Dec. 4, at 8 a.m. Coffee with an administrator and a parent tour will be held at 8:30 a.m. the Thursdays of Oct. 7, Nov. 4, and 18, and Dec. 2. 

The school is at 3434 S. Michigan Ave. Call (312) 842-7355 or log on to www.dls.org.

HOCUS POCUS

Donovan Playground Park, 3620 S. Lituanica Ave., will show the movie Hocus Pocus at dusk on Thursday, Sept. 9. Call (312) 742-7529.

FARMERS MARKETS

The following farmers markets are scheduled.

Green City Market, Saturdays, 8 a.m. to 1 p.m., through Oct. 30, 115 S. Sangamon St.

Plant Chicago, Saturdays, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., through Nov. 13, 4430 S. Marshfield Ave.

Prairie District, Thursdays, 4 to 8 p.m., through Sept. 30, 1936 S. Michigan Ave.

Printers Row, Saturdays, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., through Sept. 25, 632 S. Dearborn St.

BIKE THE DRIVE

Fifth Third Bike the Drive, held by the Active Transportation Alliance, will offer nearly five hours of car-free biking on Lake Shore Drive on Sunday, Sept. 5. Register at 53bikethedrive.org.

FOOD PANTRIES

The following food pantries provide groceries and meals to those who need them.

Chosen Tabernacle Full Gospel, 4310 S. Champlain Ave., Thursday, 1 to 3 p.m., (888) 834-9414.

Church of St. Paul and the Redeemer, 4945 S. Dorchester Ave., Wednesday, 3:30 to 5:30 p.m., (773) 624-3185.

Hyde Park SDA Soup Kitchen, 4608 S. Drexel Blvd., Wednesday, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., (773) 373-2909.

Kenwood Oakland Community Organization, 4242 S. Cottage Grove Ave., Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday, 9:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., (773) 548-7500.

Kenwood UCC Soup Kitchen, 4608 S. Greenwood Ave., Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday, 9:30 to 10 a.m. and noon to 1 p.m., (773) 373-2861.

Operation Pull Grant Memorial, 4017 S. Drexel Blvd., Tuesday, 1 to 3 p.m., (773) 285-5819.

GLESSNER HOUSE

Glessner House,1800 S. PrairieAve., has reopened for tours. Advance tickets are required. Tour dates are Wednesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays at 11:30 a.m. and at 1 and 2:30 p.m.

Glessner House will host a display of fire trucks on the South 1800 block of Prairie Avenue on Sunday, Sept. 12, from 2 to 4 p.m. Chicago Fire Department personnel will bring equipment, and the Public Education Unit will distribute information on fire safety and free smoke detectors while supplies last. O’Leary’s Fire Truck Tours will provide complimentary rides through the neighborhood aboard a vintage fire truck. The event is free, with no reservations necessary. 

For more information, visit www.glessnerhouse.org.

GPAC MEETINGS

Grant Park Advisory Council meetings are held the third Wednesday of each month at 6 p.m. This month’s meeting will be held Sept. 15. To register, go to www.facebook.com/ChicagoGPAC/?modal=admin_todo_tour.

BECOME A DOCENT

Friends of Historic Second Church/Second Presbyterian Church invites those interested to become a docent giving tours at Historic Second Church, 1936 S. Michigan Ave., by enrolling in 2021 docent training. Participants will learn about the art and architecture of Chicago’s only National Historic Landmark church. Training dates are the Wednesdays of Sept. 8, 15, 22, and 29 from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. and Saturday, Oct. 2, from 9 a.m. to noon. Training takes place at the church. Fee is $10 for all five classes in the series. Get applications at www.historicsecondchurch.org/docents. Email questions to [email protected]. 

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.

$ FOR SMALL BUSINESS

The Illinois Department of Economic Opportunity provided $744,600 for the Cook County Small Business Assistance Program. In 2022, the program also will receive $500,000 from We Rise Together, a coalition of philanthropic, business, and community organizations. For more about the program, log on to www.cookcountysmallbiz.org.

ITALIAN-AMERICAN CHAMBER GALA

The Italian-American Chamber of Commerce will present its Humanitarian Award to Carole Segal, founder of Crate & Barrel, at the organization’s gala and award dinner Friday, Nov. 5, 2021, at 6 p.m. at the Bridgeport Art Center, 1200 W. 35th St.  For information, log on to www.iacc-chicago.com/gala2021 or call (312) 553-9137.

LOZANO DAY

The Cook County Board of Commissioners named July 29 as Rodolfo “Rudy” Lozano Day in Cook County. Lozano fought for labor rights, unions, and the Pilsen community before a gang member murdered him June 8, 1983. Supporters believe he was assassinated for his labor and political activities. Lozano was a strong supporter and campaigner for the late Mayor Harold Washington. The City named the Chicago Public Library at 1805 S. Loomis St. for Rudy Lozano.

IT TAKES A VILLAGE

It Takes A Village Family of Schools (ITAV), in partnership with the University of Illinois Chicago (UIC), has begun a COVID-19 testing initiative at ITAV schools around Chicago. ITAV is partnering with UIC to take on the challenge of preventing COVID-19 breakouts within schools and will be instrumental in helping UIC better understand factors associated with disparities in COVID-19 morbidity and mortality, specifically in childcare centers. For more information, call Tara Shedor at (312) 868- 0588, ext. 5013, or email at [email protected].

FIGHT OPIOID ABUSE

Malcolm X College invites individuals to become community health workers to help fight the opioid crisis. Using a $2.1 million grant from the Health Resources and Services Administration, the college launched the Opioid-Impacted Family Support Program to bring care and relief to neighborhoods most affected by opioid use disorder. The University of Illinois Chicago Department of Disability and Human Development is partnering in this four-year initiative. Scholarships are available. For more information and to register for the program, visit www.ccc.edu/opioid.

MINSTREL VS. PUPPET

Attend a screening and panel discussion for the movie Minstrel vs. Puppet on Saturday, Sept. 18, from noon to 2 p.m. at City Winery Chicago, 1200 W. Randolph St. The film stars and was written and produced by Hannah Bonecutter, an actress, model, and poet who is working on a Master’s of Public Health degree at the University of Illinois Chicago. Bonecutter also serves as a student advisor at UIC. The film explores the internal conflicts many women feel concerning beauty, intelligence, and social acceptance. For tickets, log on to https://bit.ly/MinstrelVSPuppetCWC21.

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.

MENTAL HEALTH

The National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) Chicago offers support groups and other resources for individuals who may need help. Call (833) 626-4244 or visit www.namichicago.org. 

PHOTO EXHIBIT

Resilience, a photography exhibit by Prince Nikolaos of Greece and Denmark, will make its world premiere at the National Hellenic Museum (NHM) as it reopens in September. Resilience will present 20 photographic artworks, 19 never shown before and one exhibited in London earlier this year. NHM will preview the show Saturday, Sept. 25. NHM tickets, which include admission to the exhibit, are $10. The museum is located at 333 S. Halsted St. and will reopen Friday, Sept. 24. For information, visit www.nationalhellenicmuseum.org. 

FAMILY FISHING

Northerly Island Park,1521 S. Linn White Dr., will host Family Fishing on Wednesday, Sept. 8, 4 to 6 p.m.; Saturday, Sept. 18, 9 to 11 a.m.; and Wednesday, Sept. 22, from 4 to 6 p.m. Instruction available. Call (312) 859-2395.

MENTOR COLLEGE STUDENTS

One Million Degrees (OMD) is a nonprofit built to empower Chicago area community college students. OMD is looking for new volunteer coaches. For the 2021-22 academic year, coaching sessions will continue to take place virtually, with plans to incorporate some in-person opportunities in spring 2022. Applications are open for all seven City Colleges of Chicago and some suburban colleges. Learn more about coaching and apply at www.onemilliondegrees.org/coach. For questions about the program or applications, email [email protected].

OUR LADY OF THE HOLY FAMILY NEWS

Our Lady of the Holy Family,1334 W. Flournoy St., will offer a special dedication Mass the evening of Friday, Sept. 17.

The church holds Sunday Masses at 9 a.m. in English and 11 a.m. in Spanish. Saturday evening Mass is at 5 p.m. Mondays and Fridays, evening Mass is at 6 p.m. 

New for the summer and fall is a special Sunday evening Mass at 6 p.m. in the parish’s garden.

Praying the Rosary begins at 6:30 p.m. on Mondays. Adoration/Holy Hour and Confessions begins at 6:30 p.m. on Fridays. Tuesday through Thursday Masses are at 8 a.m. in the chapel at 1335 W. Harrison St. 

Reservations required for weekend services, or go online to participate in Masses virtually.

OLHF now offers a Friday Food Pantry for area residents facing food shortage challenges. Contact the parish office to register.

Call (312) 243-7400, email [email protected] or log on to www.olhfchi.org.

ANTI-INTIMIDATION LAW

A bill by State Senator Robert Peters (D-13th), signed into law by Governor JB Pritzker, prevents background checks on persons speaking at or participating in public meetings and hearings. In the past, law enforcement and public officials have used the threat of background checks to intimidate people and prevent their participation in public meetings and hearings. For more information, log on to www.senatorrobertpeters.com.

LEGAL AID

Cook County officials and partners run Cook County Legal Aid for Housing and Debt, a county-wide initiative to help residents resolve eviction, foreclosure, debt, and tax deed issues. Services are provided pro bono for Cook County residents without legal representation and are offered to tenants facing eviction, landlords dealing with an eviction, debtors being sued for unpaid debts, creditors wishing to sue on the basis of unpaid debts, and residents who have defaulted on property tax payments or mortgage foreclosure payments. Learn more by visiting www.cookcountylegalaid.org/.

SOCIAL HEALTH INITIATIVE

The Pilsen Social Health Initiative at 1850 S. Throop St. offers a food pantry, thrift store, and onsite social worker. See www.pilsensocialhealthinitiative.com/. Call (773) 812-3150.

PITCHFORK MUSIC 

The Pitchfork Music Festival will be held in Union Park, 1501 W. Randolph St., Friday through Sunday, Sept. 10 through 12. See pitchforkmusicfestival.com.

By William S. Bike 

FUNDS FOR ROBERTS CHURCH

The African American Cultural Heritage Action Fund, a program of the National Trust for Historic Preservation, announced its support for projects totaling $3 million that will help preserve African American landmarks including Roberts Temple Church of God in Christ, 4021 S. State St.Emmett Till’s murder at the hands of two white men catalyzed the Civil Rights Movement, and Roberts Temple is significant for its association with Mamie Till Mobley and Emmett Till as the site of Till’s 1955 funeral. The funds will cover critical structural stabilization for the 1922 church. Visit www.savingplaces.org/actionfund for more information.

FESTIVAL OF LIFE

The African/Caribbean International Festival of Life will be held in Washington Park, 5531 S. King Dr., Saturday and Sunday, Sept. 11 and 12. See internationalfestivaloflife.com.

THE CROODS

Armour Square Park,3309 S. Shields Ave., will show the movie The Croods: A New Age at dusk on Tuesday, Aug. 24. Call (312) 747-6012.

ART OF BANKSY

An exhibition of more than 80 of his works at 360 N. State St. will honor street artist Banksy starting Saturday, Aug. 14, and running through Sunday, Oct. 31. Ticket prices start at $39.99. Log on to banksyexhibit.com for more information.

JAHN EXHIBIT

The Chicago Architecture Center has a new exhibit, Helmut Jahn: Life + Architecture, in its Skyscraper Gallery featuring several scale models of Jahn’s most notable designs, including the Thompson Center in downtown Chicago. The center is at 111 E. Wacker Dr. Call (224) 715-0387 or log on to architecture.org.

CLUELESS

Mary Bartelme Park,115 S. Sangamon St., will show the movie Clueless at dusk on Saturday, Aug. 28. Call (312) 746-5494.

CHICAGO BASEBALL MONTH

Chicago Baseball Month kicks off Friday, Aug. 6. In collaboration with Chicago baseball leaders, including founder, president, and former Major League Baseball All-Star Curtis Granderson, the Chicago Baseball and Education Foundation will bring children throughout the city together for a citywide youth baseball tournament. The month also holds training workshops, skill competitions, a celebrity 16” softball game, and a chance to meet Chicago baseball celebrities. Events will occur throughout August. For the full lineup or to register, log on to www.chicagobaseballmonth.org/.

CUBS SCHOLARSHIP

The Chicago Cubs Charities Cubs Scholars program provides $20,000 scholarships for college. Incoming scholars for this year include local student Jennifer Vergara from Jones College Prep. Log on to www.mlb.com/cubs/community/cubs-charities.

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.

CHICAGO WOMEN’S PARK NEWS

Chicago Women’s Park and Gardens will host a Star Party from 7:30 to 10:30 p.m. on Friday, Aug. 13; free yoga on Tuesday, Aug. 17, at 7:15 p.m. and Saturday, Aug. 28, at 11:15 a.m.; and Chicago Architectural Center story time from 10 to 11 a.m. on Saturday, Aug. 28. 

The Star Party will feature astronomy, outdoor games and activities, and marshmallows roasted over an open fire.

The park’s advisory council will meet at the field house at 6:45 p.m. on the Tuesdays of Aug. 24, Oct. 6, and Dec. 7.

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

CITY ANNOUNCEMENTS

The City of Chicago will host Night Out in the Parks, bringing hundreds of diverse and unique cultural events to neighborhood parks. Log on to NightOutInTheParks.com.

The City announced a new Equitable Transit-Oriented Development pilot program to support community-driven projects that promote healthy, affordable, and accessible development near transit. A selection committee of City staff, community groups, developers, and other experts will review and identify pilots and make selections through a two-round application process. Get applications at www.chi.gov/etod.

CORONAVIRUS VACCINATION

Any Chicagoan can request an in-home vaccination for coronavirus (COVID-19) by calling the City of Chicago at (312) 746-4835. Or, find out where to get vaccinated from the State of Illinois by calling (833) 621-1284 or logging on to https://coronavirus.illinois.gov/.

DE LA SALLE NEWS

De La Salle Institute has named Jason Davidson as head wrestling coach. He also teaches applied sciences and formerly was assistant coach.

The school is at 3434 S. Michigan Ave. Call (312) 842-7355 or log on to www.dls.org.

HOCUS POCUS

Donovan Playground Park,3620 S. Lituanica Ave., will show the movie Hocus Pocus at dusk on Thursday, Sept. 9. Call (312) 747-6012.

DRAGON BOAT RACE

The annual Dragon Boat Race for Literacy at Ping Tom Memorial Park, 300 W. 19th St., is scheduled for Saturday, Aug. 28. A family activity run by Chicago’s Chinatown of Commerce, the race promotes Asian culture and helps neighborhood literacy programs. Log on to www.chicagochinatown.org or call (312) 326-5320.  

ART EXHIBIT

Epiphany Center for the Arts will host the exhibition Thresholds-Identity: Perspectives on Y(OUR)selves through Sunday, Sept. 12. Opening reception Friday, Aug. 6, from 6 to 9 p.m. The Center is at 201 S. Ashland Ave. Call (312) 421-4600.

FEAST OF ST. ROCCO

The procession and feast of St. Rocco will be held on Sunday, Aug. 15, at St. Therese Chinese Catholic Church, 218 W. Alexander St. in conjunction with the Society of San Rocco Di Simbario. The procession will begin at approximately 11:30 a.m. after the 10:30 a.m. Mass. After the procession and benediction, there will be a meal. For more information, call (312) 842-6777.

GLESSNER HOUSE

Glessner House,1800 S. PrairieAve., has reopened for tours. Advance tickets are required. Tour dates are Wednesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays at 11:30 a.m. and at 1 and 2:30 p.m.

Glessner house will host the movie In Old Chicago about the Great Chicago Fire and the O’Leary family on Tuesday, Aug. 10, at 7 p.m. Cost is $10 per person or $8 for members.

Go to www.glessnerhouse.org for tour schedules, programming, and lectures.

GOLD COAST ART FAIR

The Gold Coast Art Fair will be held on Butler Field in Grant Park, south Lake Shore Drive at east Monroe Street, Saturday and Sunday, Aug. 21 and 22, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. each day. Log on to amdurproductions.org.

ZULEMA

Goodman Theatre will present Sones de México Ensemble’s Zulema in two local parks, with free admission for all. In the story, set thousands of miles from her home in Chiapas, Mexico, the title character, Zulema, goes on a musical journey to Chicago. The production runs Saturday, Aug. 14, at 3 p.m. at Dvorak Park, 1119 W. Cullerton St., and Sunday, Aug. 15, at 3 p.m., 1824 S. Wood St. For information, log on to www.goodmantheatre.org.

INDONESIAN INDEPENDENCE

An Indonesian Independence Day ceremony will be held Tuesday, Aug. 17, from noon to 1 p.m. under the auspices of the Indonesian Diaspora Network-USA. Enjoy a flag raising, color guards, gamelan and angklung music, and dance performances at the Daley Center Plaza, 50 W. Washington St. For information, contact [email protected].

STUDENT WINNER

Andrew Jackson Language Academy student Senade Sodji was a winner at the Invention Convention U.S. Nationals competition. Sodji invented the Solisquito Cap, which uses a solar powered light affixed to a hat that includes mosquito netting to allow the wearer to enjoy light as well as safety from dangerous insects. Sodji had advanced from the Chicago Student Invention Convention. For information, log on to www.chicagoinnovation.com.

THE GOONIES

McGuane Park, 2901 S. Poplar Ave., will show the movie The Goonies at dusk on Tuesday, Aug. 10. Call (312) 747-6497.

NEWMAN NEWS

Rep. Marie Newman (D-3rd) secured $80,000 in federal funding for a McKinley Park business incubator. The 36Squared Business Incubator, 3636 S. Iron St., will use the funds to continue and expand services to small businesses.

For information, log on to http://newman.house.gov.

OUR LADY OF THE HOLY FAMILY NEWS

Our Lady of the Holy Family,1334 W. Flournoy St., holds Sunday Masses at 9 a.m. in English and 11 a.m. in Spanish. Saturday evening Mass is at 5 p.m. Mondays and Fridays, evening Mass is at 6 p.m. 

New for the summer and fall is a special Sunday evening Mass at 6 p.m. in the parish’s garden.

Praying the Rosary begins at 6:30 p.m. on Mondays. Adoration/Holy Hour and Confessions begins at 6:30 p.m. on Fridays. Tuesday through Thursday Masses are at 8 a.m. in the chapel at 1335 W. Harrison St. 

Reservations required for weekend services, or go online to participate in Masses virtually.

OLHF now offers a Friday Food Pantry for area residents facing food shortage challenges. Contact the parish office to register.

Call (312) 243-7400, email [email protected] or log on to www.olhfchi.org.

ONWARD

Park No. 571,2754 S. Eleanor St., will show the movie Onward at dusk on Wednesday, Aug. 11. Call (312) 823-9135.

PRINTER’S ROW ART FESTIVAL

The Printer’s Row Art Festival, 701 S. Dearborn St., will run Saturday and Sunday, Aug. 7 and 8, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Held on Dearborn Street from Polk to Harrison Streets, the festival offers a buying opportunity for art lovers of all ages. See art in all price points by painters, street artists, jewelers, upcycling artists, artisans of all kinds, photographers, and mixed media artists. Area restaurants and bars will serve up their Chicago specialties. Go to https://amdurproductions.com/event/2021-printers-row-art-fest/ to make reservations.

SAINT IGNATIUS NEWS

Saint Ignatius College Prep will hold its Tolton Society Summer Soiree on Friday, Aug. 6, at 6 p.m., during which the school will honor alumnus and noted ESPN sports commentator Michael R. Wilbon, Class of 1976.

The school is located at 1076 W. Roosevelt Rd. Log on to www.ignatius.org or call (312) 421-5900.

VELIKA GOSPA

St. Jerome Croatian Parish,2823 S. Princeton Ave., will host Velika Gospa on Sunday, Aug. 15, from 10 a.m. to 11 p.m. The festival includes Masses (7:30 and 9 a.m. and noon) and a procession, Croatian food (barbecued lamb and pig, cevapcici, raznici, and fritule), drinks, games for kids, a raffle ($20,000 to be awarded at 10 p.m.), bingo, and live music. Call (312) 842-1871 or log on to www.stjeromecroatian.org/.

KARATE KID

Sheridan Park,910 S. Aberdeen St., will show the movie The Karate Kid at dusk on Wednesday, Aug. 18. Call (312) 746-5369.

SHRINE NEWS

The Shrine of Our Lady of Pompeii will host a Prayer Walk with Mary, the Mother of God on Saturday, Aug. 21, from 9 to 10:30 a.m. in Arrigo Park, across the street from the shrine. Enjoy Scripture, prayer, stories, and poetry. Register by Wednesday, Aug. 18. 

The Italian festa Unwine Under the Stars, the shrine’s fundraiser, is scheduled for Saturday, Aug. 28, at CineCity Studios, 2429 W. 14th St. Email [email protected].

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

SUMMER SMASH

Come out for the Summer Smash hip-hop music festival at the Douglass Park Golf Course, 1401 S. Sacramento Ave., Friday through Sunday, Aug. 20 through 22. See starevents.com.

TASTE OF GREEKTOWN

Taste of Greektown runs Friday through Sunday, Aug. 27 through 29, on the 300 block of south Halsted Street between Van Buren and Adams Streets. Times are Friday and Sunday, 4 to 10 p.m., and Saturday, noon to 10 p.m. Food and spirits from neighborhood eateries will again offer the main attraction, complemented by plenty of music by Greek bands and entertainment such as games for both kids and families. Log on to https://chicagoevents.com/events/taste-of-greektown/.

UNION PARK

Union Park, 1501 W. Randolph St., will host three music festivals.

The Ruido Music Festival will runFriday through Sunday, Aug. 20 through 22, and spotlight Latin alternative music. Log on to https://ruidofest.com/.

The ARC Music Festival happens Labor Day weekend, Saturday and Sunday, Sept. 4 and 5, with house music and a new immersive dance music event. Log onto http://arcmusicfestival.com for the artist lineup.

The Pitchfork Music Festival will run Friday through Sunday, Sept. 10 through 12, to showcase up and coming music from around the world along with special performances from touring legends. For more information, go to https://pitchforkmusicfestival.com.

CUBS BOOK

Gazette Chicago associate editor William S. Bike has written a book about the 1970 Chicago Cubs season, The Forgotten 1970 Chicago Cubs: Go and Glow.For more information, go to www.1970chicagocubs.com. 

GET VACCINATED

The Chicago Department of Public Health is hosting multiple coronavirus (COVID-19) vaccination special events across the city. Anyone age 12 and older can get vaccinated. All COVID-19 vaccines are free, and no insurance or ID is required. See the full list of special vaccine events at www.chicago.gov/vaxcalendar. 

BIKE THE DRIVE

Fifth Third Bike the Drive, held by the Active Transportation Alliance, will offer nearly five hours of car-free biking on Lake Shore Drive on Sunday, Sept. 5. Register at 53bikethedrive.org. 

GPAC MEETINGS

Grant Park Advisory Council meetings are held the third Wednesday of each month at 6 p.m. This month’s meeting will be held Aug. 18. To register, go to www.facebook.com/ChicagoGPAC/?modal=admin_todo_tour.

MEALS FOR DISABLED CHILDREN

Chicago Public Schools (CPS) students with disabilities now have access to free breakfast and lunch, thanks to a class action lawsuit filed by Legal Council for Health Justice and Disability Rights Advocates, challenging the CPS policy of denying free breakfast and lunch to its students whose disabilities require them to attend non-public schools. For information, call (312) 605-1957.

FIGHT OPIOID ABUSE

Malcolm X College invites individuals to become community health workers to help fight the opioid crisis. Using a $2.1 million grant from the Health Resources and Services Administration, the college launched the Opioid-Impacted Family Support Program to bring care and relief to neighborhoods most affected by opioid use disorder. The University of Illinois Chicago Department of Disability and Human Development is partnering in this four-year initiative. Scholarships are available. For more information and to register for the program, visit www.ccc.edu/opioid. 

LIGHT OF TRUTH

The Oakwood Shores Working Group unveiled The Light of Truth: Ida B. Wells Monument, the first monument in Chicago honoring an African American woman, on June 30. The sculpture, commissioned by the Ida B. Wells Commemorative Art Committee, a subcommittee of the group, provides a permanent monument at 37th Street and Langley Avenue, where the Ida B. Wells Homes once stood. For more information, contact committee chair Anthony Rogers at [email protected] or [email protected]. 

CRIME VICTIM HELP

Attorney General Kwame Raoul announced a new statewide automated victim notification system, Illinois VINE (Victim Information and Notifications Everyday), which will allow survivors of violent crime and their families to search offenders’ custody status more easily as well as access support services and advocacy organizations. Call (866) 5-NOTIFY (866-566-8439) or visit VINELink.com. Individuals affected by a violent crime can call Raoul’s Crime Victims Assistance Line at (800) 228-3368. 

ELECTRIC BUSES

Representative Bobby L. Rush (D-1st), chair of the Energy Subcommittee of the House Energy and Commerce Committee, announced that the Chicago Transit Authority will receive $6,988,646 from the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Federal Transit Administration to purchase battery electric buses and charging equipment, upgrade its South Side bus depot, and provide workforce training. For more information, call (202) 716-6365. 

OFFICE MOVE

Alderman Byron Sigcho-Lopez moved his office to 2100 W. Cermak Rd. Call (773) 523-4100 or email [email protected].

CHAMBER FUNDRAISER

Save the date for the South Loop Chamber of Commerce fundraiser at its annual party at Zhou B Art Center, 1029 W. 35th St., Thursday, Sept. 30, 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. For information, contact Colleen Mancari at [email protected].  

TEAACH ACT

Governor JB Pritzker signed the TEAACH Act (Teaching Equitable Asian American Community History) into law in July. The bill will make Illinois the first state to require public elementary and high schools to teach a unit of Asian American history. Asian Americans Advancing Justice promoted the bill. Call (312) 307-0840 for more information. 

UIC INFORMATION

The I PROMOTE-IL Project at the University of Illinois at Chicago is working with StoryCenter to support birthing persons and their families in sharing their stories related to experiences of complications and challenges during pregnancy, labor and delivery, and the postpartum period. Challenges can include physical conditions, chronic disease management, delivery complications, mental health conditions, and coping with substance use. The project is recruiting birthing persons to attend a virtual digital storytelling workshop online over four weeks, which includes five two-hour group sessions and three individual sessions from Monday, Aug. 9, through Thursday, Sept. 2. For more information, contact Abby Holicky at [email protected].  

WCA NETWORKING 

The West Central Association Chamber of Commerce will hold a networking event at Time Out Market, 916 W. Fulton Market, Wednesday, July 14, at 4:30 p.m. For information, call (312) 902-4922.

GET HELP

The Catholic Charities call center helps callers with a variety of needs and connects them toprograms within Catholic Charities or other agencies. 

The organization offers meals to go at St. Vincent Center, 721 N. LaSalle St., Monday through Friday at 4 p.m. No pre-registration required.

Catholic Charities operates several food pantries. 

A counseling/support hotline is available at (312) 948-6951. Catholic Charities also offers professional counseling at (312) 644-7725.

Log on to catholiccharities.net, call (312) 655-7700, or email [email protected].

FARMERS MARKETS

The following farmers markets are scheduled.

Green City Market, Saturdays, 8 a.m. to 1 p.m., through Oct. 30, 115 S. Sangamon St.

Plant Chicago, Saturdays, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., through Nov. 13, 4430 S. Marshfield Ave.

Prairie District, Thursdays, 4 to 8 p.m., through Sept. 30, 1936 S. Michigan Ave.

Printers Row, Saturdays, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., through Sept. 25, 632 S. Dearborn St.

FOOD PANTRIES

The following food pantries provide groceries and meals to those who need them.

Chosen Tabernacle Full Gospel, 4310 S. Champlain Ave., Thursday, 1 to 3 p.m., (888) 834-9414.

Church of St. Paul and the Redeemer, 4945 S. Dorchester Ave., Wednesday, 3:30 to 5:30 p.m., (773) 624-3185.

Hyde Park SDA Soup Kitchen, 4608 S. Drexel Blvd., Wednesday, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., (773) 373-2909.

Kenwood Oakland Community Organization, 4242 S. Cottage Grove Ave., Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday, 9:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., (773) 548-7500.

Kenwood UCC Soup Kitchen, 4608 S. Greenwood Ave., Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday, 9:30 to 10 a.m. and noon to 1 p.m., (773) 373-2861.

Operation Pull Grant Memorial, 4017 S. Drexel Blvd., Tuesday, 1 to 3 p.m., (773) 285-5819.

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 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 [email protected] for a calendar of upcoming events.

LICENSE EXTENSION

All expired Illinois driver’s licenses and identification cards will remain valid until Saturday, Jan. 1, 2022, according to Secretary of State Jesse White. For more information, go to cyberdriveillinois.com.

EQUAL PAY

State Senator Mattie Hunter (D-3rd) championed a newly signed law that will ensure the State fully implements the Equal Pay Act. Hunter’s Senate Bill 1847 strengthened Illinois’s Equal Pay Act application submission dates and compliance requirements. The General Assembly earlier had passed Senate Bill 1480, part of the Black Caucus’s Economic Access, Equity, and Opportunity Pillar, which created an Equal Pay Registration Certificate requirement for businesses with more than 100 employees in Illinois. For more information, call (312) 949-1908.

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.

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 [email protected].

By William S. Bike

ADDICTION HOTLINES

AddictionResource.net lists drug and alcohol abuse hotlines available 24 hours per day, seven days per week, and confidential. Log on to https://www.addictionresource.net/addiction-hotlines/ or call (844) 616-3400.

FESTIVAL OF LIFE

The African/Caribbean International Festival of Life will be held in Washington Park, 5531 S. King Dr., Satruday and Sunday, Sept. 11 and 12. See internationalfestivaloflife.com.

SHAPEN FELLOWS

Howard Brown Health has announced the inaugural class of its Gregory Shapen Public Health Fellowship Endowment Fund, supporting paid internship opportunities for underrepresented LGBTQ undergraduates with a focus on LGBTQ health. The six participating fellows, including three local ones, are all students at Chicago-area universities and colleges. The local fellows are Sana Ali of the University of Illinois at Chicago; Andre Hall of the University of Chicago; and Audre Nevar of the University of Illinois College of Medicine. Howard Brown Health exists to eliminate the disparities in healthcare experienced by LBGTQ people. Learn more at howardbrown.org.

BURNS HELPS BEETHOVEN

The Lugenia Burns Hope Center, 710 E. 47th St., recently provided aid bags containing soap, tissue, sanitizer, and face masks to families and students of Beethoven Elementary School, 25 W. 47th St. The center also provided 15 routers for internet access for the school. For more information, log on to www.lbhopecenter.com.

CHICAGO BIKE WEEK

Celebrate biking during Chicago Bike Week, Friday, June 25, through Friday, July 2. Throughout the week, Active Transportation Alliance and other organizers will provide free tips and tricks for riders of all abilities and roll out other fun Bike Week activities. Log on to https://activetrans.org/bikeweek or call (312) 427-3325.

CUBS BOOK

Gazette Chicago Associate Editor William S. Bike has written a book about the 1970 Chicago Cubs season, The Forgotten 1970 Chicago Cubs: Go and Glow. For more information, go to www.1970chicagocubs.com.

PLAY BRIDGE

Chicago Duplicate Bridge has moved to Dearborn Station, 47 W. Polk St. The organization holds games seven days per week in the afternoon and evening games Tuesdays and Thursdays. See www.bridgewebs.com/chicagodbc/.

PITCH IN

The nonprofit Chicago Parks Foundation announced the second season of its citywide volunteer effort, Pitch In for the Parks!, to help keep the city’s 600+ public parks clean. This season-long, family-friendly volunteer opportunity is open for registration on an ongoing enrollment basis, with park clean-ups going on through October. Volunteers can sign up at chicagoparksfoundation.org/volunteer.

WOMEN’S PARK

Chicago Women’s Park and Gardens,1801 S. Indiana Ave.,will offer a Journey Through South Asia on Thursday, July 8, at 6 p.m. featuring live music, poetry, and folktales. Bring a chair or blanket. The Kalapriya Center for Indian Performing Arts organized the event. Call (312) 436-2789 or log on to www.kalapriya.org/events.

The park will host the Lakeside Bank Concert in the Park on Tuesday, July 20. A Night Out in the Park will feature a string quartet on Thursday, July 22. Toddlers, Tunes, & Turtles is scheduled for Thursday, Aug. 5. 

Call (312) 328-0821 for times and details.

BUSINESS EXPO

The City of Chicago Department of Business Affairs and Consumer Protection will host a small business e-expo online on Thursday, July 22. Log on to www.ChiSmallBizExpo.com for more information.

CHINATOWN SUMMER FAIR

The Chinatown Summer Fair,2200 S. Wentworth Ave., will be held Saturday, July 17, noon to 10 p.m., and Sunday, July 18, 10 a.m. to 7 p.m., on Wentworth Avenue at Cermak Road. This neighborhood street festival, sponsored by the Chicago Chinatown Community Foundation, will open with a lion dance procession at 12:30 p.m. Log on to www.ccc-foundation.org/summer-fair/ or call (312) 326-5320.

DE LA SALLE NEWS

De La Salle Institute counts 58 of its students among the 195 semifinalists in the Illinois Fatherhood Initiative Essay Contest.

The school is at 3434 S. Michigan Ave. Call (312) 842-7355 or log on to www.dls.org.

DUSMUMMER

The DuSable Museum of African American History will host DuSummer each Wednesday through Sunday on the Plaza of the DuSable Museum Roundhouse. Wednesdays are dedicated to DuJazz and Thursdays to DuDiaspora, featuring a mix of music exploring Latin and African rhythms during which guests are invited to dance. Fridays feature DuHouse, Chicago’s 1980s house music for underground club culture. On Saturdays, the museum will welcome DuComedy. Sundays will conclude each week’s offerings with a DuSteppin’ Day party, during which dancers and observers can put on their Sunday best and dance. The DuSable Museum is at 5700 S. Cottage Grove Ave. For more information, call (773) 947-0600 or visit www.dusablemuseum.org. 

BIKE THE DRIVE

Fifth Third Bike the Drive, held by the Active Transportation Alliance, will offer nearly five hours of car-free biking on Lake Shore Drive on Sunday, Sept. 5. Register at 53bikethedrive.org.

FIESTA DEL SOL RETURNS

Fiesta del Sol will be held Thursday through Sunday, July 29 through Aug. 1, on Cermak Road between Ashland Avenue and Morgan Street. The festival celebrates Latino heritage and culture. This year, in addition to music, food, and carnival rides, the festival will provide COVID-19 vaccines. The event will run from 5 to 10 p.m. July 29, 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. July 30 and 31, and 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Aug. 1. See www.fiestadelsol.org.

FARMERS MARKETS

The following farmers markets are scheduled.

Green City Market, Saturdays, 8 a.m. to 1 p.m., through Oct. 30, 115 S. Sangamon St.

Plant Chicago, Saturdays, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., through Nov. 13, 4430 S. Marshfield Ave.

Prairie District, Thursdays, 4 to 8 p.m., through Sept. 30, 1936 S. Michigan Ave.

Printers Row, Saturdays, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., through Sept. 25, 632 S. Dearborn St.

FOOD PANTRIES

The following food pantries provide groceries and meals to those who need them.

Chosen Tabernacle Full Gospel, 4310 S. Champlain Ave., Thursday, 1 to 3 p.m., (888) 834-9414.

Church of St. Paul and the Redeemer, 4945 S. Dorchester Ave., Wednesday, 3:30 to 5:30 p.m., (773) 624-3185.

Hyde Park SDA Soup Kitchen, 4608 S. Drexel Blvd., Wednesday, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., (773) 373-2909.

Kenwood Oakland Community Organization, 4242 S. Cottage Grove Ave., Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday, 9:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., (773) 548-7500.

Kenwood UCC Soup Kitchen, 4608 S. Greenwood Ave., Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday, 9:30 to 10 a.m. and noon to 1 p.m., (773) 373-2861.

Operation Pull Grant Memorial, 4017 S. Drexel Blvd., Tuesday, 1 to 3 p.m., (773) 285-5819.

4TH ON 53RD

The 4th on 53rd celebration will be held Monday, July 4, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Nichols Park, 1355 E. 53rd St.Enjoy music, jump rope demonstrations, arts, crafts, magic, bicycle decorations, a photo booth, and games. For more information, email [email protected].

OVENS FOR COMMUNITY

GE Appliances (GEA) partnered with nonprofit Kitchen Possible to provide GE Digital Air Fry 7-in-1 Toaster Ovens to 46 households in the Pilsen and East Garfield Park neighborhoods as part of GEA’s community engagement investments with nonprofit organizations and community partners who connect people with the resources they need to be successful. Kitchen Possible teaches weekly cooking lessons to young people ages eight through 12 in underserved Chicago neigshborhoods. For more on GEA, visit www.geappliancesco.com. For more on Kitchen Possible, log on to kitchenpossible.org.

GLESSNER HOUSE IN-PERSON EVENTS

Glessner House, located at 1800 S. Prairie Ave., has resumed in-person events. On Sunday, July 18, at 2 p.m., take a walking tour of Chicago’s historic Prairie Avenue, including an interior visit to Second Presbyterian Church; tickets are $25. On Sunday, July 24, at 10 a.m., explore the history and architecture of Chicago’s Motor Row along South Michigan Avenue; tickets are $20. On Wednesday, July 28, at 5:30 p.m., enjoy a concert in the courtyard performed by Wayne Messmer; tickets are $15. For more information and to buy tickets, visit glessnerhouse.org.

ZULEMA

Goodman Theatre will present Sones de México Ensemble’s Zulema in two local parks, with free admission for all. In the story, set thousands of miles from her home in Chiapas, Mexico, the title character, Zulema, goes on a musical journey to Chicago. The production runs through Saturday, Aug. 14, at 3 p.m. at Dvorak Park, 1119 W. Cullerton St., and Sunday, Aug. 15, at 3 p.m., 1824 S. Wood St. For information, log on to www.goodmantheatre.org.

GPAC MEETINGS

Grant Park Advisory Council meetings are held the third Wednesday of each month at 6 p.m. This month’s meeting will be held July 21. To register, go to www.facebook.com/ChicagoGPAC/?modal=admin_todo_tour.

GRANT PARK MUSIC FESTIVAL

The Grant Park Music Festival is a free outdoor classical music series of summer concerts in Millennium Park. Concerts run from Friday, July 2, through Saturday, Aug. 21. Reservations are needed for all seating and can be made online or by phone. All seats are free of charge. For a complete schedule of performance dates, music, visiting artists, and updated health and safety requirements, log on to  www.grantparkmusicfestival.com/music/2021-season. 

IMMERSIVE VAN GOGH

Immersive Van Gogh by Lighthouse ArtSpace Chicago in the Germania Club Building, 108 W. Germania Pl., allows visitors to transport fully into Van Gogh’s most famous masterpieces such as Starry Night, Sunflowers, and the Bedroom of Arles, with large-scale projections that animate every inch of the architecture, along with music, storytelling, and the opportunity to lie down in a socially distant circle with a pillow to take it all in. Call (844) 307-4644.

HEALTHCARE COVERAGE

The Biden Administration has opened HealthCare.gov, created by the Affordable Care Act, through Sunday, Aug. 15, so all Americans can sign up for health insurance.

ART EXHIBITION

The Hyde Park Art Center is presenting the Metamorphosis of Gabriel Villa and a related virtual artist talk. This exhibition introduces the artist’s new direction in installation and clay sculpture and is available for in-person viewing from now through Saturday, July 17. Advance registration is required via Eventbrite at www.eventbrite.com/e/the-metamorphosis-of-gabriel-villa-artist-talk-tickets-150122730127. The Hyde Park Art Center is located at 5020 S. Cornell Ave. Call (773) 324-5520.

HUMANITIES GRANTS

Illinois Humanities is accepting applications for COVID-19 Emergency Relief and Recovery Grants. More than $1 million in funding has been made possible by the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021 through the National Endowment for the Humanities. The grants, ranging from $5,000 to $10,000, will provide general operating support for humanities nonprofits as well as humanities-based project grants. Nonprofit organizations with annual budgets of $2 million or less are eligible to apply. The application deadline is Thursday, July 15. To apply, go to https://www.grantinterface.com/Home/Logon?urlkey=ihc. For a 1 p.m. information session on Wednesday, June 9, email [email protected].

INDONESIAN INDEPENDENCE

An Indonesian Independence Day ceremony will be held Tuesday, Aug. 17, from noon to 1 p.m. under the auspices of the Indonesian Diaspora Network-USA. Enjoy a flag raising, color guards, gamelan and angklung music, and dance performances at the Daley Center Plaza, 50 W. Washington St. For information, contact [email protected].

PROPERTY TAX IMPROVEMENTS

Cook County Assessor Fritz Kaegi will implement two changes to the tax code to extend auto-renewals for property tax exemptions for seniors, veterans, and people with disabilities and to expand incentives for affordable housing providers. HB 3289 extends property tax renewal exemptions for low-income seniors and persons with disabilities; in prior years, homeowners had to file forms online or through the mail to receive these exemptions. HB 2621 expands housing options for low-income households by reducing the tax liability for those who provide affordable housing. For information, log on to www.cookcountyassessor.com.

LOLLAPALOOZA

Lollapalooza will be held in Hutchinson Field in Grant Park. The four-day music festival runs Thursday, July 29, through Sunday, Aug. 1, on eight stages with more than 170 American and international bands highlighting “alternative” rock, punk rock, heavy metal, hip hop, and electronica. Lollapalooza will feature interactive areas with giveaways, merchandise, a food court, and the Kidzapalooza mini-fest for children running parallel to the main concerts and offering parents and youngsters the opportunity to catch family-friendly music. Go to www.lollapalooza.com/.

GOVERNMENT DEBT TOOL

Property owners can find out what portion of local government debt falls on them, thanks to a new online tool created by Cook County Treasurer Maria Pappas. To see the new calculations, property owners can visit cookcountytreasurer.com and click the purple box on the homepage and search for their addresses and see their local debt burdens compared to home value in both dollar and percentage amounts.

OUR LADY OF THE HOLY FAMILY NEWS

Our Lady of the Holy Family, 1334 W. Flournoy St., holds Sunday Masses at 9 a.m. in English and 11 a.m. in Spanish. Saturday evening Mass is at 5 p.m. Mondays and Fridays, evening Mass is at 6 p.m. 

New for the summer and fall is a special Sunday evening Mass at 6 p.m. in the parish’s garden.

Praying the Rosary begins at 6:30 p.m. on Mondays. Adoration/Holy Hour and Confessions begins at 6:30 p.m. on Fridays. Tuesday through Thursday Masses are at 8 a.m. in the chapel at 1335 W. Harrison St. 

Reservations required for weekend services, or go online to participate in Masses virtually.

Call (312) 243-7400, email [email protected] or log on to www.olhfchi.org.

SAINT IGNATIUS NEWS

At the Chicago Catholic League Track and Field Championships, Saint Ignatius College Prep senior Malcom Bevans jumped 14.61 meters to win the event and break a 33-year-old league record.

The school is located at 1076 W. Roosevelt Rd. Log on to www.ignatius.org or call (312) 421-5900.

SHRINE NEWS

The Shrine of Our Lady of Pompeii will hold a virtual retreat, Praying with Mary Magdalene, Apostle to the Apostles, at 10:30 a.m. on Saturday, July 24.

For more information, visit ourladyofpompeii.org or Our Lady of Pompeii Shrine on Facebook.

The shrine is at 1224 W. Lexington St. Call (312) 421-3757.

SLCC MOVES

The community group South Loop Chamber of Commerce has moved from its previous location at 3538 S. Halsted St. The new location is 1029 W. 35th St., 60609, in the Zhou B Art Center. To visit, turn into the driveway east of the building and park in the back. Follow the ramp on the west side of the building and ring the bell for entry. Call (773) 254-7225 or log on to southloopchamberofcommerce.com.

SMOKEOUT

The Windy City Smokeout,featuring musicians Darius Rucker and Dierks Bentley, will be held outside the United Center, 1901 W. Madison St., Thursday through Sunday, July 8 through 11. See windycitysmokout.com.

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 [email protected].

By William S. Bike 

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 [email protected].

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.

BRIGHT STAR RESOURCES

Bright Star Community Outreach and Bright Star Church have a trauma helpline and provide professional development, emotional support, and child and family services. Log on to brightstarcommunityoutreach.com/. Donations welcome. The church is located at 4518 S. Cottage Grove Ave.

BUCKNER RESOURCES

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

GET HELP

The Catholic Charities call center helps callers with a variety of needs and connects them toprograms within Catholic Charities or other agencies. 

The organization offers meals to go at St. Vincent Center, 721 N. LaSalle St., Monday through Friday at 4 p.m. No pre-registration required.

Catholic Charities operates several food pantries. 

A counseling/support hotline is available at (312) 948-6951. Catholic Charities also offers professional counseling at (312) 644-7725.

Log on to catholiccharities.net, call (312) 655-7700, or email [email protected].

ART EXHIBITIONS

Chicago Artists Coalition, 2130 W. Fulton St., will present three new exhibitions, all open to the public from now through Wednesday, June 16, by appointment only from 3 to 8 p.m. For more information, call (312) 491-8888. 

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.

CHINATOWN WORKSHOP

Community activist Phan Le will present Chicago Chinatown, Past and Present,a 90-minute online workshop focusing on the historical, social, and political aspects of Chicago’s Chinatown, one of the few urban Chinese-American communities in the U.S. that is growing. The workshop will be held Monday, June 7, and repeated every evening through Friday, June 11, at 7 p.m.; the public is invited to sign up for any one of the evenings. Register at tiny.cc/chi-chinatown-poli-ed.

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 [email protected] or (312) 746-7291.

SUNDAYS ON STATE

Chicago Loop Alliance is hosting Sundays on State throughout the summer, closing a portion of State Street so groups can take it over for performances and events. For more information, log on to loopchicago.com.

CPS HOTLINES

The Chicago Public Schools administration has a Healthy CPS Hotline at (773) 533-KIDS (5437) and CPS Parent Tech Support Hotline at (773) 417-1060. Or, email [email protected].

SEEKING YOUNG LEADERS

Chicago Votes offers the Civic Leaders Program, a leadership development program for young people who have experienced incarceration, training them to serve as leaders in the organization’s legislative advocacy, court watching, and voter registration efforts. Chicago Votes is located at 234 S. Wabash Ave. Log on to https://chicagovotes.com.

CHICAGO WOMEN’S PARK NEWS

Chicago Women’s Park & Gardens’ advisory council will meet on Tuesday, June 15, at 6:45 p.m. in the fieldhouse. 

The park will have a summer day camp from Monday, June 28, through Friday, Aug. 6. To register, go to www.chicagoparkdistrict.com/programs-memberships.

Come to the park for Make Music Chicago on Monday, June 21.

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

JOBS FOR YOUTH

The City of Chicago has jobs for youth ages 14 through 24. Application deadline is Friday, June 11. Go to OneSummerChicago.org.

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.

LEGAL AID

Cook County officials and partners run Cook County Legal Aid for Housing and Debt, a county-wide initiative to help residents resolve eviction, foreclosure, debt, and tax deed issues. Services are provided pro bono for Cook County residents without legal representation and are offered to tenants facing eviction, landlords dealing with an eviction, debtors being sued for unpaid debts, creditors wishing to sue on the basis of unpaid debts, and residents who have defaulted on property tax payments or mortgage foreclosure payments. Learn more by visiting www.cookcountylegalaid.org/.

AMERICAN ROULETTE

American Roulette is an art exhibit at the Chase Gallery at Epiphany Center for the Arts, 201 S. Ashland Ave., on display now through Sunday, July 18. Call (312) 421-4600.

DE LA SALLE NEWS

De La Salle Institute has hired Carlene Klaas as dean of enrollment management, overseeing admissions operations and enrollment management and retention efforts.

The school also hired Gary DeCesare as the new head coach of the boys basketball program. DeCesare brings more than 20 years of coaching experience, serving most recently as director of college athletics recruiting and boys head coach at Gulliver Prep in Miami, FL.

De La Salle will host grade school summer camps in June and July. 

The school is at 3434 S. Michigan Ave. Call (312) 842-7355 or log on to www.dls.org.

FOOD PANTRIES

The following food pantries provide groceries and meals to those who need them.

Chosen Tabernacle Full Gospel, 4310 S. Champlain Ave., Thursday, 1 to 3 p.m., (888) 834-9414.

Church of St. Paul and the Redeemer, 4945 S. Dorchester Ave., Wednesday, 3:30 to 5:30 p.m., (773) 624-3185.

Hyde Park SDA Soup Kitchen, 4608 S. Drexel Blvd., Wednesday, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., (773) 373-2909.

Kenwood Oakland Community Organization, 4242 S. Cottage Grove Ave., Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday, 9:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., (773) 548-7500.

Kenwood UCC Soup Kitchen, 4608 S. Greenwood Ave., Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday, 9:30 to 10 a.m. and noon to 1 p.m., (773) 373-2861.

Operation Pull Grant Memorial, 4017 S. Drexel Blvd., Tuesday, 1 to 3 p.m., (773) 285-5819.

FARMERS MARKETS

The following farmers markets are scheduled.

Prairie District, Thursdays, 4 to 8 p.m., June 17 through Sept. 30, 1936 S. Michigan Ave.

Printers Row, Saturdays, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., through Sept. 25, 632 S. Dearborn St.

GLESSNER HOUSE

Glessner House, 1800 S. Prairie Ave., will offer an author talk with Stuart Cohen about his new book, Frank L. Wright and the Architects of Steinway Hall on Thursday, June 17, at 7 p.m. Tickets are $10. The Glessner courtyard reopens for concerts this month, hosting CSO cellist John Sharp and friends playing music for string trio on Wednesday, June 9, at 6 p.m. (tickets are $50) and Second City Jazz on Wednesday, June 23, at 5:30 p.m. (tickets $15). For more information and to buy tickets, visit glessnerhouse.org.

GPAC MEETINGS

Grant Park Advisory Council meetings are held the third Wednesday of each month at 6 p.m. This month’s meeting will be held June 16. To register, go to www.facebook.com/ChicagoGPAC/?modal=admin_todo_tour.

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.

HARMONY NEWS

Harmony Community Church, 1908 S. Millard Ave., has converted its sanctuary into a community center for youth programs and events. The church offers reading, tutoring, fine art, music, and dance programs. It also has a food pantry. Call (773) 762-9673.

HEALTHCARE COVERAGE

The Biden Administration has opened HealthCare.gov,created by the Affordable Care Act, through Sunday, Aug. 15, so all Americans can sign up for health insurance.

HR HOTSEAT

HRHotSeat 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. Visitwww.HRHotSeat.com or email [email protected] for a calendar of upcoming events.

ART EXHIBITION

The Hyde Park Art Center is presenting the Metamorphosis of Gabriel Villa and a related virtual artist talk. This exhibition introduces the artist’s new direction in installation and clay sculpture and is available for in-person viewing from now through Saturday, July 17. Advance registration is required via Eventbrite at www.eventbrite.com/e/the-metamorphosis-of-gabriel-villa-artist-talk-tickets-150122730127. The Hyde Park Art Center is located at 5020 S. Cornell Ave. Call (773) 324-5520.

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.

HUMANITIES GRANTS

Illinois Humanities is accepting applications for COVID-19 Emergency Relief and Recovery Grants. More than $1 million in funding has been made possible by the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021 through the National Endowment for the Humanities. The grants, ranging from $5,000 to $10,000, will provide general operating support for humanities nonprofits as well as humanities-based project grants. Nonprofit organizations with annual budgets of $2 million or less are eligible to apply. The application deadline is Thursday, July 15. To apply, go to https://www.grantinterface.com/Home/Logon?urlkey=ihc. For a 1 p.m. information session on Wednesday, June 9, email [email protected].

DONATION TO TUMBLERS

Impact Networking, a managed services provider, donated $35,000 to the Jesse White Tumbling Team, a program with a mission to help set at-risk youth on the path to success. Illinois Secretary of State and 27th Ward Committeeman Jesse White voiced his gratitude and appreciation to Impact CEO Frank Cucco. Impact Networking conceives, develops, and executes customized strategies and solutions to improve businesses’ technical, financial, operational, and creative aspects. Log on to www.impactmybiz.com for more information.

ERC EXTENDED

The Internal Revenue Service extended the Employee Retention Tax Credit forall of 2021, and more businesses qualify under the eligibility requirements. ERC is a tax credit the IRS implemented last year as a temporary coronavirus relief provision to help businesses keep employees on the payroll. See www.irs.gov/coronavirus/employee-retention-credit.

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.

MSOMAJI’S MAGIC CARPET

Bronzeville’s Tiffany Smith has written a children’s book, Msomaji’s Magic Carpet,which she designed as an inspirational and education manual for children to dream of travel. Get the book at www.Msomajismagiccarpet.com.

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.

MENTAL HEALTH

The National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) Chicago offers support groups and other resources for individuals who may need help. Call (833) 626-4244 or visit www.namichicago.org. 

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.

CABRINI SHRINE NEWS

The National Shrine of Saint Frances Xavier Cabrini, 2520 N. Lakeview Ave., will celebrate the Feast of the Sacred Heart of Jesus with a Mass on Friday, June 11, at 4 p.m. The shrine holds weekly Mass Saturdays at 4 p.m. and Sundays at 10 a.m. and is open for weekly private prayer on Wednesdays, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Reservations required; coronavirus rules allow for up to 60% occupancy. To make a reservation call (773) 360-5115 or visit cabrininationalshrine.org.

OUR LADY OF THE HOLY FAMILY NEWS

Our Lady of the Holy Family,1334 W. Flournoy St., holds Sunday Masses at 9 a.m. in English and 11 a.m. in Spanish. Saturday evening Mass is at 5 p.m. Mondays and Fridays, evening Mass is at 6 p.m. Praying the Rosary begins at 6:30 p.m. on Mondays. Adoration/Holy Hour and Confessions begins at 6:30 p.m. on Fridays. Tuesday through Thursday Masses are at 8 a.m. in the chapel at 1335 W. Harrison St. 

Reservations required for weekend services, or go online to participate in Masses virtually.

Call (312) 243-7400, email [email protected] or log on to www.olhfchi.org.

SOCIAL HEALTH INITIATIVE

The Pilsen Social Health Initiative at 1850 S. Throop St. offers a food pantry, thrift store, and onsite social worker. See www.pilsensocialhealthinitiative.com/. Call (773) 812-3150.

SAINT IGNATIUS NEWS

Saint Ignatius College Prep senior Marty Boyle has signed to play college baseball next school year at the University of Tampa. Seniors Lauren McDonald, Rhema Ogele, and Leah Poorman have signed to play college basketball next school year. McDonald will attend the U.S. Air Force Academy, Ogele will attend Portland State University, and Poorman will attend Middlebury College.

The school is located at 1076 W. Roosevelt Rd. Log on to www.ignatius.org or call (312) 421-5900.

TUITION RELIEF DRIVE

San Miguel School is having an emergency tuition relief drive, and donations through mid-June will be doubled thanks to Cam Paulson, owner of Strive Village gyms, who is matching all gifts through Tuesday, June 15, up to $30,000. The school is located at 1954 W. 48th St. Call (773) 890-1481 or log on to sanmiguelchicago.org.

SHRINE NEWS

The Shrine of Our Lady of Pompeii will offer Moving On with Grace: A Spiritual Journey for Men and Women Grieving the Death of a Spouse on Saturday, June 12, 9 a.m. to noon., featuring Amy Florian, a grief studies expert. Registration costs $20 and is due by Wednesday, June 9.

Monday through Friday, June 21 through 25, the Rev. Richard Fragomeni will present the course Death and Afterlife: Liturgy and the Promise of the Resurrection from 1 to 4 p.m. daily Cost is $300.

For more information, visit ourladyofpompeii.org or Our Lady of Pompeii Shrine on Facebook.

The shrine is at 1224 W. Lexington St. Call (312) 421-3757.

BEST VALUE COLLEGES

SmartAsset’s Best Value Colleges study ranked Illinois’s top ten best value colleges. Illinois Institute of Technology ranked second, with the University of Illinois at Chicago ranking eighth. For more information, see https://smartasset.com.

SLCC ANALYZES ONE CENTRAL

The South Loop Concerned Coalition posted a video, A Panel of Experts on One Central, on Facebook, YouTube, and the SLCC website. The coalition assembled transportation, construction, and finance experts to analyze the revised One Central housing and retail proposal for the South Loop. See southloopconcernedcoalition.org. For more information, email [email protected].

RENTAL ASSISTANCE

The State of Illinois is offering grants of up to $25,000 for up to 15 months of rental assistance, and the grants will not need to be repaid. The program is open to renters who have lost income due to the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic and are at risk of losing their place to live. Landlords must start the application process, and then tenants can file for the program. A person must be a tenant in Illinois, have lost income due to the coronavirus, be behind in rent, and have a household income less than 80% of the area median income. Deadline is Monday, June 7. Log on to https://illinoishousinghelp.org/.

GRANTS FOR ORGANIZATIONS

The U.S. Department of Labor announced a funding opportunity of $3.5 million for grants to community-based organizations to increase and retain the number of women in quality registered apprenticeship programs and nontraditional occupations such as those in the manufacturing, infrastructure, cybersecurity, and healthcare. Apply for the grants at https://www.grants.gov/web/grants/view-opportunity.html?oppId=333076.

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/.

CLEANUP

More than 50 volunteers participated in a recent Taylor Street cleanup, from Ashland Avenue to Morgan Street, sponsored by the West Central Association, Little Italy Chicago Neighborhood Association Alderman Jason Ervin (28th Ward), and Alderman Byron Sigcho-Lopez (25th Ward).

YARD SALE

The South Loop Neighbors will host its annual yard sale on Saturday, June 5, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. in Dearborn Park, Plymouth Court and 13th Street.

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 [email protected].

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 organizers have postponed or canceled events.

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 [email protected].

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 [email protected].

CORONAVIRUS RESOURCES

Bright Star Community Outreach and Bright Star Church provide resources related to the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, including rental assistance and utilities support. They also have a trauma helpline and provide professional development, emotional support, and child and family services. Log on to brightstarcommunityoutreach.com/. Donations welcome. The church is located at 4518 S. Cottage Grove Ave.

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 [email protected].

GET HELP

The Catholic Charities call center helps callers with a variety of needs and connects them to programs within Catholic Charities or other agencies. 

The organization offers meals to go at St. Vincent Center, 721 N. LaSalle St., Monday through Friday at 4 p.m. No pre-registration required.

Catholic Charities operates several food pantries. 

A counseling/support hotline is available at (312) 948-6951. Catholic Charities also offers professional counseling at (312) 644-7725.

Log on to catholiccharities.net, call (312) 655-7700, or email [email protected].

ART EXHIBITIONS

Chicago Artists Coalition, 2130 W. Fulton St., will present three new exhibitions, all open to the public from Friday, May 7, through Wednesday, June 16, by appointment only from 3 to 8 p.m. For more information, call (312) 491-8888. 

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.

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 [email protected] or (312) 746-7291.

CPS HOTLINES

The Chicago Public Schools administration has established a Healthy CPS Hotline at (773) 533-KIDS (5437) and CPS Parent Tech Support Hotline at (773) 417-1060. Or, email [email protected].

JOBS FOR YOUTH

The City of Chicago has jobs for youth ages 14 through 24. Application deadline is Friday, June 11. Go to OneSummerChicago.org.

LEGAL AID

Cook County officials and partners run Cook County Legal Aid for Housing and Debt, a county-wide initiative to help residents resolve eviction, foreclosure, debt, and tax deed issues. Services are provided pro bono for Cook County residents without legal representation and are offered to tenants facing eviction, landlords dealing with an eviction, debtors being sued for unpaid debts, creditors wishing to sue on the basis of unpaid debts, and residents who have defaulted on property tax payments or mortgage foreclosure payments. Learn more by visiting www.cookcountylegalaid.org/.

DE LA SALLE NEWS

De La Salle Institute will host school tours at 9, 10, and 11 a.m. on Wednesday, May 19. It will host grade school summer camps in June and July. 

De La Salle is at 3434 S. Michigan Ave. Call (312) 842-7355 or log on to www.dls.org.

AMERICAN ROULETTE

American Roulette is an art exhibit at the Chase Gallery at Epiphany Center for the Arts, 201 S. Ashland Ave., on display now through Sunday, July 18. Call (312) 421-4600.

COMMUNITY JUSTICE GRANTS

Expensify.org, a charity founded by the preaccounting platform Expensify, runs the Community Justice Grant Challenge, which can provide up to $100,000 in funding to ten grassroots organizations or individuals fighting injustices in their community. Expensify.org wants to partner with groups working to advance change in at least one of these areas: climate justice, food security, housing equity, reentry services, or youth advocacy. To apply, visit Expensify.org. The deadline to apply has been extended to Saturday, May 15.

FOOD PANTRIES

The following food pantries provide groceries and meals to those who need them.

Chosen Tabernacle Full Gospel, 4310 S. Champlain Ave., Thursday, 1 to 3 p.m., (888) 834-9414.

Church of St. Paul and the Redeemer, 4945 S. Dorchester Ave., Wednesday, 3:30 to 5:30 p.m., (773) 624-3185.

Hyde Park SDA Soup Kitchen, 4608 S. Drexel Blvd., Wednesday, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., (773) 373-2909.

Kenwood Oakland Community Organization, 4242 S. Cottage Grove Ave., Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday, 9:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., (773) 548-7500.

Kenwood UCC Soup Kitchen, 4608 S. Greenwood Ave., Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday, 9:30 to 10 a.m. and noon to 1 p.m., (773) 373-2861.

Operation Pull Grant Memorial, 4017 S. Drexel Blvd., Tuesday, 1 to 3 p.m., (773) 285-5819.

PEOPLE

Noah Benjamin Goldin was born April 1, weighing in at 8 lbs., 2 oz., and measuring 20 inches long. Proud mother and father are Emilia Olvera and Daniel Goldin. Noah is the brother of Eli Alexander Goldin. Proud grandparents are Steven and Hortencia Olvera and Wally and Elena Goldin.

GLESSNER HOUSE

Glessner House,1800 S. Prairie Ave. is open for tours on Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday at 11:30 a.m. and 1 and 2:30 p.m. Advance ticket required. Visit GlessnerHouse.org.

GPAC MEETINGS

Grant Park Advisory Council meetings are held the third Wednesday of each month at 6 p.m. This month’s meeting will be held May 19. To register, go to www.facebook.com/ChicagoGPAC/?modal=admin_todo_tour.

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.

HARMONY NEWS

Harmony Community Church, 1908 S. Millard Ave., has converted its sanctuary into a community center for youth programs and events. The church offers reading, tutoring, fine art, music, and dance programs. It also has a food pantry. Call (773) 762-9673.

HEALTHCARE COVERAGE

The Biden Administration has opened HealthCare.gov,created by the Affordable Care Act, through Sunday, Aug. 15, so all Americans can sign up for health insurance.

ART EXHIBITION

The Hyde Park Art Center is presenting the Metamorphosis of Gabriel Villa and a related virtual artist talk. This exhibition introduces the artist’s new direction in installation and clay sculpture and is available for in-person viewing from now through Saturday, July 17. Villa will give a free virtual artist talkThursday, June 6, 3 to 4 p.m.,via Zoom (https://us02web.zoom.us/j/81095516013). Advance registration is required via Eventbrite at www.eventbrite.com/e/the-metamorphosis-of-gabriel-villa-artist-talk-tickets-150122730127. The Hyde Park Art Center is located at 5020 S. Cornell Ave. Call (773) 324-5520.

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.

DAVIS HONORED

Impact Networking, a managed services provider, has donated $10,000 on behalf of Congressman Danny K. Davis (D-7th) to help fund scholarships for academically deserving students enrolled at the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff, Davis’s alma mater. Davis expressed his gratitude and appreciation to Impact CEO Frank Cucco. For information, call (847) 785-2250.

CPD INCREASES COMPLIANCE

The Independent Monitoring Team assesses behavior of Chicago Police Department and City of Chicago employees and has found that the CPD and City have more than tripled previous compliance with a court consent decree. The CPD instituted 32 hours of mandatory in-service training for officers, conducted extensive community engagement, improved transparency, hired a language access coordinator, and created a department-wide anti-retaliation policy. See cpdmonitoringteam.com. 

CHILDHOOD WORKFORCE TRAINING

It Takes A Village Family of Schools (ITAV), 806 N. Peoria St., is starting a new early childhood workforce program for Chicago youth. Participants will earn State credentials, work toward the national Child Development Associate’s credential, and receive a paid apprenticeship at an ITAV early learning worksite. The cohort will take place during summer. To sign up or learn more, visit www.itavschools.org or email Makeya Kelly at [email protected].

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.

MAYOR’S MEDAL

Mayor Lori Lightfoot on April 20 conferred the Mayor’s Medal of Honor to individuals and organizations making extraordinary contributions to Chicago during the coronavirus pandemic. Local organizations honored include Rush University Medical Center, the Pui Tak Center, and the Back of the Yards Neighborhood Council Ballet Folklorico.

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.

MENTAL HEALTH

The National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) Chicago offers support groups and other resources for individuals who may need help. Call (833) 626-4244 or visit www.namichicago.org. 

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.

OUR LADY OF THE HOLY FAMILY NEWS

Our Lady of the Holy Family,1334 W. Flournoy St., holds Sunday Masses at 9 a.m. in English and 11 a.m. in Spanish. Saturday evening Mass is at 5 p.m. Mondays and Fridays, evening Mass is at 6 p.m. Praying the Rosary begins at 6:30 p.m. on Mondays. Adoration/Holy Hour and Confessions begins at 6:30 p.m. on Fridays. Tuesday through Thursday Masses are at 8 a.m. in the chapel at 1335 W. Harrison St. 

Reservations required for weekend services, or go online to participate in Masses virtually.

Congratulations to our Confirmandi who received the Sacrament of Conformation on Saturday, April 24! Isabel Avila, Isaura Cardenas, Diego Davila, Miabella Esposito, Pablo Gutierrez, Isabella Guzman, Jaquelin Nevarez, Venus Nava-Munoz, Anne O’Neill, Stefano Ramirez, Joshua Roman, Jayden Rivera, Gabriel Ruiz, Natalie Ruiz, Christopher Sanchez, Ariana Valdez, and Leonardo Zuno.

Call (312) 243-7400, email [email protected] or log on to www.olhfchi.org.

SOCIAL HEALTH INITIATIVE

The Pilsen Social Health Initiative at 1850 S. Throop St. offers a food pantry, thrift store, and onsite social worker. See www.pilsensocialhealthinitiative.com/. Call (773) 812-3150.

RAOUL NEWS

Attorney General Kwame Raoul announced his office surpassed $904 million in revenue collected on behalf of the State through litigation and collection efforts in 2020. The revenue collected for the State by the attorney general’s office shows that, for every dollar of taxpayer funding the office received, it generated $25.49 for the State. For more information, call (217) 785-5726.

RUSH ROUNDUP

Rush University System for Health administered its 100,000th dose of the coronavirus (COVID-19) vaccines in April, a milestone reached in less than four months. For more information, log on to rush.edu/vaccine.

Rush is at 1700 W. Van Buren St.

SAINT IGNATIUS NEWS

The Saint Ignatius College Prep varsity sailing team finished second in the Central Fleet Qualifier.

Malcolm Bevans made school history in track and field by breaking his own record in the triple jump by almost 18 inches when he jumped 47 feet, 8 inches—the best jump in Illinois this year.  

The school is located at 1076 W. Roosevelt Rd. Log on to www.ignatius.org or call (312) 421-5900.

DONATIONS NEEDED

St. Matthew Lutheran Church/Comedor San Mateo Soup Kitchen needs donations of kitchen sinks, office supplies, garbage bags, napkins, and food. Call (773) 847-5458 or (312) 636-6496. The church and soup kitchen are located at 2108 W. 21st St.

ART EXHIBIT

Seeds In My Pocket is an art exhibit curated by South Shore artist Dorian Sylvain and Pilsen artist Pablo Serrano in partnership with the Chicago Art Department. The exhibit focuses on the shared journey of Black and Latino families who navigate barriers to create a sense of home and place in Chicago. The exhibit is at 1926 S. Halsted St. through Sunday, May 30. Walk-ins are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Attendees are encouraged to make reservations at https://www.eventbrite.com/e/seeds-in-my-pocket-opening-tickets-144808348669?ref=estw.

PENGUIN VISIT

Three Magellanic penguins from Shedd Aquarium recently made a special visit to Shaw’s Crab House in Chicago to celebrate and support Chicago Restaurant Week and bring attention to Shedd’s Let’s Shedd Plastic program for restaurants, aiming to combat plastic pollution. The aquarium is at 1200 S. Lake Shore Dr. Call (312) 939-2438.

UIC INFORMATION

The University of Illinois Chicago (UIC) Athletics Department received a $250,000 commitment from football letter winner and 1969 alumnus Al Ronan to establish the Al Ronan Family UIC Athletics Scholarship Fund. It will support student-athletes who demonstrate financial need, academic merit, and athletic excellence.

UIC has been named a voter friendly campus by NASPA, a national organization of student affairs administrators in higher education, and the Fair Elections Center’s Campus Vote Project. UIC received the accolade for creating student engagement programs encouraging students to register and vote a key part of its institutional mission.

Through a five-year, $2.5 million grant from the National Science Foundation, a team from the UIC Department of Mathematics, Statistics, and Computer Science will run a program to recruit, train, and develop young scientists for research careers in algebraic geometry and associated fields such as commutative algebra and topology. 

SCHOLARSHIPS AVAILABLE

To encourage community-oriented selflessness and volunteerism, Zakat Foundation of America has set aside $20,000 in scholarships for high school seniors entering college who have engaged in community service. Applications must be submitted by Monday, May 10. Learn more at www.zakat.org/.

SHRINE NEWS

The Shrine of Our Lady of Pompeii will offer a virtual pilgrimage to the shrine on Saturday, May 8, from 1:30 to 3 p.m., exploring the building’s symbolism, spirituality, and beauty. Visit pietre-vive.org or Pietre Vive on Facebook/Instagram/YouTube to learn more.

Rosa Mystica: A Journey of Renewal and Restoration focusing on Mary, Mother of All Nations, is scheduled for Tuesday, May 11, from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. Register by 2 p.m. that day.

For more information, visit ourladyofpompeii.org or Our Lady of Pompeii Shrine on Facebook.

The shrine is at 1224 W. Lexington St. Call (312) 421-3757.

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 [email protected].

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 organizers have postponed or canceled events.

NEW PHARMACY

A new pharmacy, Bridgeport Neighborhood Pharmacy, has opened at 3303 S. Halsted St. in the Knapp Medical Center. Hours are 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Thursday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Friday, and 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday. Call (773) 940-2000.

NEW CAMERA

Chicago Police at the request of Alderman Patrick D. Thompsonhave installed an observation camera at the corner of Lyman and Lock Streets to combat drag racing and traffic violations.

PARK PROGRAMS

Chicago Women’s Park and Gardens will offer arts and crafts on Tuesdays, April 6 through June 8, 3:45 to 4:30 p.m., for nine- through 12-year-olds; story time and crafts on Wednesdays, April 7 through June 9, 1 to 1:45 p.m. for four- and five-year-olds; and fun and games Thursdays, April 8 through June 10, 3:45 to 4:30 p.m. for nine- through 12-year-olds. Register at www.chicagoparkdistrict.com/parks-facilities/chicago-womens-park-gardens. 

The park advisory council’s annual election meeting will be held Tuesday, April 13, at 6:45 p.m. Email [email protected] for more details. 

The park has added an Amazon locker for easy and safe pickup of Amazon deliveries.

The park is at 1801 S. Indiana Ave.

DONUT FUNDRAISER

Children of Peace School with the help of Stan’s Donuts is doing a pre-order fundraiser from now through Tuesday, May 4. Pick-up is from 3-5 p.m. on Thursday, May 6, at the school. Place your order at https://foodtruck.pub/?id=5461. The school is at 1900 W. Taylor St. Call (312) 243-8186.

HELP FROM CITY

The City of Chicago offers free income tax form preparation help to families earning less than $57,000 annually.To schedule an appointment call (312) 588-6900 or log on to www.taxprepchicago.org.

The City offers two programs to help people replace lead water pipe service lines. People who want to hire a contractor to remove the lines can apply for the Homeowner-Initiated Program, in which the City will waive permit fees, and City crews will attach the new service line to the water main and give the homeowner a free water meter for the contractor to install. The Equity Program allows homeowners to get a service line replacement and water meter for free if they meet certain criteria, including income and amount of lead in water. Log on to www.leadsafechicago.org/lead-service-line-replacement.

DE LA SALLE NEWS

De La Salle Institute will hold open houses Monday through Thursday, April 19 through 22. Tours begin at 4 and 5 p.m.

On the Wednesdays of April 14 and 28 and May 5 and 19, De La Salle will host school tours at 9, 10, and 11 a.m.

De La Salle will host a Zoom open house on Tuesday, April 27, at 6 p.m.

De La Salle is at 3434 S. Michigan Ave. Call (312) 842-7355 or log on to www.dls.org.

VACCINE PARTNERSHIP

Thanks to a partnership among Esperanza Health Centers, Enlace Chicago, Latinos Progresando, and the City’s Protect Chicago Plus program, Esperanza is administering vaccines at Enlace Chicago’s headquarters at 2756 S. Harding Ave. and its clinic at 2001 S. California Ave. near Douglass Park. Esperanza is operating its two new sites six days a week, with evening hours available for residents who require scheduling flexibility. The public is encouraged to visit www.esperanzachicago.org for vaccination center updates and additional information.

VACCINATION SITE

The North Lawndale Christian Community Center, in partnership with the City of Chicago,launched the North Lawndale Community coronavirus (COVID-19) vaccination site at Lawndale Christian Health Center Homan Square, 3860 Ogden Ave., (872) 588-3000. The site opened as part of the City’s Protect Chicago Plus initiative, which aims to increase vaccine uptake in communities most affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. For more information on Protect Chicago Plus and Chicago’s vaccination distribution plans, including finding additional sites and booking a slot, visit Chicago.gov/covidvax.

PING TOM PROGRAMS

Ping Tom Park spring programs will include badminton; aerobics (both online and at the park); water safety (online); kiddie college; and park kids after school soccer, spring break camp, team sports, track and field, and volleyball. Log on to www.chicagoparkdistrict.com/spring-programs. The park is at 1700 S. Wentworth Ave.

TOP COMMUNITY COLLEGES

Kennedy-King College is one of the country’s top ten community colleges and serves the largest predominantly Black student body on a list compiled by Academic Influence, an organization that ranks programs and institutions.  In addition, Kennedy-King is first, and Olive-Harvey College fourth, among community colleges in Illinois. Kennedy-King is located at 6301 S. Halsted St. Call (773) 602-5000. Olive-Harvey is at 10001 S. Woodlawn Ave. Call (773) 291-6100.

SAINT IGNATIUS NEWS

Saint Ignatius College Prep is offering a limited number of summer internships to graduates who want to be teachers and mentors. Email Ma[email protected] or [email protected].  

The school is located at 1076 W. Roosevelt Rd. Log on to www.ignatius.org or call (312) 421-5900.

ART EXHIBIT

Seeds In My Pocket is an art exhibit curated by South Shore artist Dorian Sylvain and Pilsen artist Pablo Serrano in partnership with the Chicago Art Department. The exhibit focuses on the shared journey of Black and Latino families who navigate barriers to create a sense of home and place in Chicago. The exhibit is at 1926 S. Halsted St. through Sunday, May 30. Walk-ins are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Attendees are encouraged to make reservations at https://www.eventbrite.com/e/seeds-in-my-pocket-opening-tickets-144808348669?ref=estw.

SHRINE NEWS

Shrine of Our Lady of Pompeii Holy Week events: Good Friday, April 2, noon Stations of the Cross in shrine; Passion of the Lord 7 p.m. live streamed on Facebook. Holy Saturday, April 3, 9 p.m., Easter Vigil Eucharistic Liturgy livestreamed on Facebook. Sunday, April 4, Easter Sunday 8 and 9:30 Eucharistic liturgy in Shrine, 11 a.m. Eucharistic liturgy livestreamed on Facebook.

To attend live services in the shrine, pre-register at www.ourladyofpompeii.org.

The shrine will host virtual Bible study on Zoom covering the Gospel of St. Mark on the Wednesdays of April 7 and 21 at 7 p.m. To register, go to www.ourladyofpompeii.org/blog/pilgrimages/. 

The shrine is at 1224 W. Lexington St. Call (312) 421-3757.

BUILDER’S DAY

Taller de Jose will hold its Builder’s Day fundraiser online Saturday, April 17, at 6 p.m. The agency offers assistance to navigating social service agencies and is located at 2831 W. 24th Blvd. Call (773) 523-8320 or log on to tallerdejose.org.

ADDAMS PARK PROGRAMS

At Addams Park,1434 S. Loomis St., Chicago Soccer Foundation and Chicago Rec Sports have designed opportunities to re-acclimate participants to several recreational sports: basketball, football, track, soccer, volleyball, field hockey, girls’ softball, floor hockey, teen club, lacrosse, and summer camp. Log on to www.chicagorecsports.com.

OUR LADY OF THE HOLY FAMILY NEWS

Our Lady of the Holy Family,1334 W. Flournoy St., holds Sunday Masses at 9 a.m. in English and 11 a.m. in Spanish. Saturday evening Mass is at 5 p.m. 

Holy Week services are: Good Friday, April 2, 3 p.m. service in English, 7 p.m. service in Spanish; Holy Saturday, April 3, 6 p.m. Easter vigil; Easter Sunday, April 4, 9 a.m. Mass in English, 11 a.m. Mass in Spanish.

Reservations required for weekend services, or go online to participate in Masses virtually.

Call (312) 243-7400, email [email protected] or log on to www.olhfchi.org.

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 [email protected].

STUDENT AWARDS

The Association for Entrepreneurship USA (AFEUSA) is accepting applications through Friday, April 30, for the 2021 AFEUSA Student Award Program, which disburses $10,000 among 20 aspiring entrepreneurs who best demonstrate their vision, goals, and potential future success in the field of entrepreneurship. For more information about the program and requirements, visit afeusa.org/about-us/student-awards/.

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.

CORONAVIRUS RESOURCES

Bright Star Community Outreach and Bright Star Church provide resources related to the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, including rental assistance and utilities support. They also have a trauma helpline and provide professional development, emotional support, and child and family services. Log on to brightstarcommunityoutreach.com/. Donations welcome. The church is located at 4518 S. Cottage Grove Ave.

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 [email protected].

GET HELP

The Catholic Charities call center helps callers with a variety of needs and connects them toprograms within Catholic Charities or other agencies. 

The organization offers meals to go at St. Vincent Center, 721 N. LaSalle St., Monday through Friday at 4 p.m. No pre-registration required.

Catholic Charities operates several food pantries. 

A counseling/support hotline is available at (312) 948-6951. Catholic Charities also offers professional counseling at (312) 644-7725.

Log on to catholiccharities.net, call (312) 655-7700, or email [email protected].

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 [email protected] 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.

CISNEROS HONORED

The Chicago Literary Hall of Fame, in an event co-sponsored by the National Museum of Mexican Art, the American Writers Museum, and the Chicago Public Library, gave poet, short story writer, novelist, and essayist Sandra Cisneros the Fuller Award for lifetime achievement on March 13. The hall of fame is at 641 W. Lake St. Call (773) 414-2503.

CPS HOTLINES

The Chicago Public Schools administration has established a Healthy CPS Hotline at (773) 533-KIDS (5437) and CPS Parent Tech Support Hotline at (773) 417-1060. Or, email [email protected].

CIVICLAB NEWS

CivicLab will hold its 2021 Civic Harambee on Saturday, April 10, from 10 a.m. to noon. Harambee is a Swahili phrase meaning “Let’s pull together.” The public is invited. To register, contact CivicLab through civiclab.us.

CivicLab is an organization promoting democracy and social justice.

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.

LEGAL AID

Cook County officials and partners run Cook County Legal Aid for Housing and Debt, a county-wide initiative to help residents resolve eviction, foreclosure, debt, and tax deed issues. Services are provided pro bono for Cook County residents without legal representation and are offered to tenants facing eviction, landlords dealing with an eviction, debtors being sued for unpaid debts, creditors wishing to sue on the basis of unpaid debts, and residents who have defaulted on property tax payments or mortgage foreclosure payments. Learn more by visiting www.cookcountylegalaid.org/.

TEEN VIDEO CONTEST

The Federal Reserve Bank of Chicago invites teenagers aged 14 through 18 to share their perspectives about the impact of the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic and other issues on their lives and communities through the Project Hometown High School Video Contest. To participate, Chicago teens need to produce a video lasting one to three minutes, detailing their experiences and observations and what they believe matters most as communities work to rebuild, recover, and move ahead. Teens who create the winning entries will receive cash prizes, with winning videos featured on chicagofed.org and across social media. Register for the contest and upload your contest video at www.chicagofed.org/events/project-hometown/video-contest/contest.

FOOD PANTRIES

The following food pantries provide groceries and meals to those who need them.

Chosen Tabernacle Full Gospel, 4310 S. Champlain Ave., Thursday, 1 to 3 p.m., (888) 834-9414.

Church of St. Paul and the Redeemer, 4945 S. Dorchester Ave., Wednesday, 3:30 to 5:30 p.m., (773) 624-3185.

Hyde Park SDA Soup Kitchen, 4608 S. Drexel Blvd., Wednesday, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., (773) 373-2909.

Kenwood Oakland Community Organization, 4242 S. Cottage Grove Ave., Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday, 9:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., (773) 548-7500.

Kenwood UCC Soup Kitchen, 4608 S. Greenwood Ave., Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday, 9:30 to 10 a.m. and noon to 1 p.m., (773) 373-2861.

Operation Pull Grant Memorial, 4017 S. Drexel Blvd., Tuesday, 1 to 3 p.m., (773) 285-5819.

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.

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.

HARMONY NEWS

Harmony Community Church, 1908 S. Millard Ave., has converted its sanctuary into a community center for youth programs and events. The church offers reading, tutoring, fine art, music, and dance programs. It also has a food pantry. Call (773) 762-9673.

ERC EXTENDED

The Internal Revenue Service extended the Employee Retention Tax Credit forall of 2021, and more businesses qualify under the eligibility requirements. ERC is a tax credit the IRS implemented last year as a temporary coronavirus relief provision to help businesses keep employees on the payroll. See www.irs.gov/coronavirus/employee-retention-credit.

C.A.P.S. MEETINGS

Chicago Alternative Policing Strategy (C.A.P.S.) meetings in the 1st, 2nd, 9th, 10th, and 12th districts, areas covered by Gazette Chicago, include the following. All meetings will be virtual.

1st District: Beat 112, Tues., Apr. 6, 6 p.m.; Beat 122, Mon., Apr. 12, 6 p.m.; Beat 124, Wed., Apr. 14,  6 p.m.; Beat 132, Tues., Apr. 20, 6 p.m.; Beat 111, Wed., May 5, 3 p.m.; Beat 113, Mon., May 3, 3 p.m. Call (312) 745-4381.

2nd District: Beat 211, Mon., Apr. 12, 6 p.m.; Beat 214, Tues., Apr. 6, 6 p.m.; Beat 215, Tues., Apr. 27, 6 p.m.; Beat 222, Tues., Apr. 13, 6 p.m.; Beat 223, Tues., Apr. 20, 6 p.m.; Beat 233, Thurs., Apr. 15, 6 p.m.; Beat 235, Thurs., Apr. 8, 6 p.m.; Beat 212, Tues., May 4, 6 p.m.; Beat 225, Thurs., May 6, 6 p.m. Call (312) 747-8366.

9th District: Beat 912, Wed., Apr. 14, 7 p.m.; Beats 913/915, Tues., Apr. 13,  6:30 p.m.; Beat 914, Wed., Apr. 28,  6:30 p.m.; Beat 923, Tues., Apr. 27, 7 p.m.; Beat 924, Tues., Apr. 6, 6 p.m.; Beat Wed., Apr. 21,  6 p.m.; Beats 931/933, Thurs., Apr. 8, 6 p.m.; Beats 932/934/935, Tues., Apr. 20, 6 p.m.; Beat 911, Thurs., May 6, 6 p.m.; Beats 921/922, Thurs., May 6, 7 p.m.; Beat 924, Tues., May 4,  6 p.m. Call (312) 747-3501.

10th District: 20th Sector beat meeting, Fri. Apr. 9, 6 p.m.; 30th Sector beat meeting, Fri. Apr. 16, 6 p.m.; Beat 1011, Thurs., May 6, 6 p.m.; Beat 1014, Tues., May 4, 6 p.m. Call (312) 747-7190.

12th District:Beat 1211, Wed., Apr. 7, 6 p.m.; Beat 1212, Wed., Apr. 7, 7 p.m.; Beat 1224, Wed., Apr. 14,  6 p.m.; Beat 1231, Wed., Apr. 14, 7 p.m.; Beat 1232, Wed., Apr. 28, 6 p.m.; Beat 1233, Wed., Apr. 28, 7 p.m.; Beat 1234, Wed., Apr. 21, 6 p.m.; Beat 1235, Wed., Apr. 21, 7 p.m.; Beat 1225, Wed., May 5, 7 p.m. Call (312) 746-8306.

To learn more about C.A.P.S. programs, visit the Chicago Police Districts website: home.chicagopolice.org/community/districts/, tab: Get Involved with C.A.P.S. 

GPAC MEETINGS

Grant Park Advisory Council meetings are held the third Wednesday of each month at 6 p.m. This month’s meeting will be held April 21. To register, go to www.facebook.com/ChicagoGPAC/?modal=admin_todo_tour.

POKER TOURNAMENT

HFS Chicago Scholars will host its tenth annual All In For Scholars poker tournament and fundraiser virtually on Friday, April 9, at 7 p.m. Fifty/fifty raffle tickets, in which the winner will receive 50% of the proceeds, also are on sale. To register and buy tickets log on to www.hfsallinforscholars.com. The organization is located at 1074 W. Taylor St.

HR HOTSEAT

HRHotSeat 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 [email protected] 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.

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.

SUMMER INTERNSHIPS

Mikva Summer Fellowships are paid summer internship positions in the offices of City, County, State, and Federal officials. Fellows work 30 hours per week for six weeks between June and August and earn $15 per hour. Deadline to apply is Saturday, April 10. Go to tinyurl.com/SummerFellows2021 or mikvachallenge.org.

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.

MENTAL HEALTH

The National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) Chicago offers support groups and other resources for individuals who may need help. Call (833) 626-4244 or visit www.namichicago.org. 

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.

SCHOLARSHIPS AVAILABLE

The Pilsen Neighbors Community Council is seeking applications for the Guadalupe A. Reyes Fiesta del Sol Scholarship Program. The deadline to apply is 5 p.m., Thursday, April 16. Applicants must be of Latino heritage, enrolled in a college or university, and have a 2.5 or higher grade point average. Students must live in the area between 16th and 79th Streets and Cicero Avenue and Canal Street. The scholarship is open to citizens, DACA recipients, and undocumented students. See www.fiestadelsol.org/scholarship/.

NO LATE FEE

Thanks to a change in the law, property owners have extra time to pay their first installment Cook County property tax bills without a late fee, through Monday, May 3, 2021, Treasurer Maria Pappas said. Property owners can pay their bills by visiting cookcountytreasurer.com and entering their street address.

SOCIAL HEALTH INITIATIVE

The Pilsen Social Health Initiative at 1850 S. Throop St. offers a food pantry, thrift store, and onsite social worker. See www.pilsensocialhealthinitiative.com/. Call (773) 812-3150.

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.

ARCHITECTURE AWARD

The 1040 W. Fulton project team, including general contractor Summit Design + Build, has won the WoodWorks-Wood Products Council’s 2021 U.S. Wood Design Award for Regional Excellence. The winning project, 1040 W. Fulton, is home to Summit Design + Build’s new headquarters in the Fulton Market district and is a  newly constructed, five-story heavy timber, mixed-use commercial building featuring first floor retail, underground parking, a shared roof deck, a green roof, a fifth floor patio, and four floors of office space. It is the first multi-story timber office building constructed in Chicago in more than 50 years. Hartshorne Plunkard Architecture, project architect, and IMEG Corp., structural engineer, also served on the award-winning team. For information, call (312) 229-4613 or log on to www.summitdb.com.

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/.

UIC INFORMATION

The University of Illinois Chicago along with Protect Chicago Plus have partnered to provide 1,000 COVID-19 vaccines to residents in the Englewood neighborhood, with plans to expand to other city areas with vulnerable populations. For information, visit vaccine.uihealth.org. 

The UIC Master’s of Fine Arts class of 2020-2021 is showing their works from now through Saturday, May 22, at Gallery 400, 400 S. Peoria St. For information, log on to gallery400.uic.edu.

VACCINE VISIT 

Chicago’s First Lady Amy Eshleman recently visited the Protect Chicago Plus vaccination clinic located at UI Health Mile Square Health Center to greet the community and provide encouraging words of support to those receiving their COVID-19 vaccines. For more information on Chicago’s COVID-19 vaccine rollout, visit www.chicago.gov/covidvax.

WCA BOARD

The West Central Association Chamber of Commerce has added Charles Graff of CrossTown Fitness to its board. For more information, log on to wcachicago.org.

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, ext. 4994. The center is at 140 N. Ashland Ave. Log on to www.womenstreatmentcenter.org.

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 [email protected].