News

Workers at Loretto Hospital threaten to strike

By |

SEIU Illinois has announced that the nearly 200 workers it represent at the Austin hospital have authorized a strike as early as July 20. SEIU accuses Loretto of unfair labor practices and failing to bargain in good faith. The hospital says it’s “offered favorable terms, especially in light of the current economic environment.”

assessor

Assessor offering information on property taxes

By |

Schedule an appointment with staff from Cook County Assessor Fritz Kaegi’s office, who will be meeting with property owners on Tuesday, July 14 in state Rep. La Shawn Ford’s office, at 5051 W. Chicago Ave. Appointments will be scheduled between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. Learn how to appeal your bill and make sure you aren’t missing any exemptions.

hunger

Church launches community pop-up pantry Saturday

By |

Third Unitarian Church, 301 N. Mayfield Ave., is launching an outdoor pop-up pantry on Saturdays from 10 a.m. till noon, starting this Saturday, July 11. The pantry will distribute non-perishables, such as canned goods and possibly fresh produce. There will also be household items available, including cleaning supplies, toilet paper, diapers, hand sanitizer and face masks.

beautify

Beautify six corners in Austin this weekend

By |

Meet at 9 a.m. July 11 at Adams on any of these six corners: Austin, Mason, Mayfield, Menard, Waller and Parkside. Rose bushes and annuals will be planted, and PPE supplies, light snacks and drinks will be available. Bring your garden tools, neighbors and friends!

economic development

Four Austin businesses awarded grants from city

By |

The businesses – Avery and Pryor Construction, DLV Printing Service, L. May Creations and T&C Fitness Club – will receive a total of $717,320 from the city’s Neighborhood Opportunity Fund. It was started in 2016 to help support commercial corridors in Chicago’s underserved neighborhoods. In the latest round of funding, 32 businesses on the West, South and Southwest Sides will be getting a total of $5.4 million.

Community

Free mental health help available

By |

Free screening and linkage to care is available at the Westside Community Triage and Wellness Center (WCTWC) at 4133 W. Madison. Walk-ins are welcome, or residents can call the 24-hour crisis line at (773) 745-2610. “If people are feeling sad, depressed or hurt I urge them to take advantage of the free mental health support,” said state Rep. La Shawn Ford.