Rep. Ford calls for pause on utility shutoffs

In the wake of last weekend’s torrential rain that flooded hundreds of basements on Chicago’s West Side, state Rep. La Shawn Ford is urging ComEd and People’s Gas to temporarily stop utility shutoffs of those affected by the storms and also offer assistance.

Support Austin businesses

Stop by Jamaican Grill, at 5241 W. Chicago Ave., from 12 to 8 p.m. for its grand opening. Between 2:30 and 5:30 p.m. there will be black economic empowerment rally (B.E.E.R.) in the heart of the Soul City Corridor.

Church announces award in honor of slain member

Tracey Showers, a longtime member of Greater St. John Bible Church, was killed Tuesday night in front of her Austin home. The Tracey Showers Faithful Servant Award will be given each year to a woman in the community whose light has shined exceptionally over the past year. A $10,000 award also has been announced to help find Showers’ killer.