August 3 - 9, 2026

August 3 - 9, 2026 Vol. 34 No. 24

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4 SportsWise

The SportsWise team talks about the WNBA's public relations inadequacies.

5 Cover Story: Black owned business month

Black-owned Business Month highlights economic equity, promotes entrepreneurship, and encourages the public to actively support Black entrepreneurs and community wealth building. We share a listing of some of our favorite Blackowned businesses, from restaurants to lawyers.

15 The Playground

DISCLAIMER: StreetWise publishes perspectives from vendors and contributors to reflect a range of lived experiences and viewpoints. These opinions do not necessarily reflect the views of StreetWise. We are committed to fostering dialogue grounded in dignity and respect, and we do not endorse language or perspectives that harm or dehumanize others.

Dave Hamilton, Creative Director/Publisher

dhamilton@streetwise.org

StreetWiseChicago @StreetWise_CHI

Suzanne Hanney, Editor-In-Chief

suzannestreetwise@yahoo.com

Julie Youngquist, Executive director

jyoungquist@streetwise.org

LEARN MORE AT streetwise.org

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Vendors John Hagan, Russell Adams and A. Allen chat about the world of sports.

The wnba's pr problem

SPORTSWISE

John: Sportscaster Dan Patrick was expected to do an interview with WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert, but her public relations staff advised her not to, so Patrick went on a rant about why they changed their minds at the last minute – after he waited two hours. This is the league that wanted to be taken seriously, just like the NFL, Major League Baseball, NHL and the NBA. What do you make of the last-minute snub?

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Russell: I don’t listen to Dan Patrick. He thinks he knows too much: how to change the All-Star game, how to change the slam dunk contest. They didn’t want him to interview Engelbert because ever since Indiana Fever guard Caitlin Clark came things have changed for the better – or have they? Some players are fouling Clark, trying to injure her. Dan can’t tell Engelbert how to do her job. He thinks he has an answer for everything. He doesn’t. Get off her back.

Allen: Me and Russell had talked about an incident Patrick talked about on his show that happened June 24 between Clark and Phoenix Mercury forward Alyssa Thomas. Thomas landed on Clark and pushed her fist into her throat, but no one

realized it until after the game when fans shared clips.

Thomas said it was an accident. The PR probably suspected he was going to continue to talk about it, which is probably one reason the interview was cancelled. But they shouldn’t have led him on to think they was going to do an interview and then turned around at the last moment, gave him a feeble answer and snuff him out.

John: To me, Dan Patrick comes off as being fair but tough. He explained that NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell doesn’t do interviews. At least Goodell is consistent.

What bothered me more about Commissioner Engelbert is, she should have just told Patrick, “I am not going to do it; I have much more on

my mind about why Caitlin Clark is getting pummeled by opponents.”

For her to say “I am going to do it” and then two hours later to change because of her PR, to me, says you’re not serious. She is going to have to do some of these interviews and take the tough questions. For her to not do that is a disservice.

Also, for her to just give Thomas a one-game suspension when she should have gotten a 10-gamer shows me the WNBA has a long way to go.

Russell: There’s a lot of bad calls. Dan Patrick should go interview WNBA players, like Caitlin Clark – how does she feel about getting fouled all the damn time?

Allen: If the commissioner can’t handle the tough questions, maybe she ought to give up the position. This is one situation that needs to be talked about, like Russell says. And yes, Patrick should interview the players. The public does want to know.

John: Maybe Dan can learn a little more from the players themselves. One day a sitdown interview with Caitlin Clark and another day Thomas and why she’s getting death threats – which is unacceptable too. The WNBA has an image problem. If it wasn’t for Caitlin Clark, it might not last five years.

Any comments, suggestions or topic ideas for the SportsWise team? Email StreetWise Editor Suzanne Hanney at suzannestreetwise@yahoo.com

Casual coffee shop offering breakfast, panini, and brunch fare, plus live music.

1818 W. 99th St.

Ain’t She Sweet Café

Fresh and healthy sandwiches to eat onsite in Bronzeville and Beverly or catered to party, office, or special event.

526 E. 43rd St. 9920 S. Western Ave. aintshesweetcafe.com

Andy Sunflower Café

Located inside the Beverly location of Ain’t She Sweet, offering fresh crafted coffee beverages using the freshest beans sourced by the best local roasters.

Donations to first responders, teachers, medical workers. 9920 S. Western Ave. andysunflowercafe.com

Bani’s Beets

Cold-pressed daily in the name of health, juices to “curve cancer and beet diabetes.”

10305 S. Hale Ave. 170 N. Sangamon (Pickup only, via online order) banisbeets.com Brunch flavor with Southern charm and Chicago heart & art, from a French toast flight with rotating seasonal flavors to Cluck-N-Gaufre: a sweet potato waffle stuffed with fried chicken.

2748 N. Lincoln Ave. 2318 S. State St. 3462 Vollmer Road, Olympia Fields batterandberries.com

Bronzeville Winery

Eric Williams of The Silver Room and Cecilia Cuff of The Nascent Group merged their experiences as arts and culture leaders in this trendy eatery that doubles

Transforming vegan and vegetarian culture with healthier, more flavorful comfort food: burgers, po’ boys, tacos and more.

1368 ½ E. 53rd St. 226 W. Chicago Ave. 24 Orland Square Drive, Orland Park https://cantbelieveitsnotmeat.com

Cantina Rosa

Small plates and craft cocktails – many with agave -- that blend modern sensibilities with traditional influences. Cantina Rosa draws inspiration from diverse regions of Mexico, enriched by the expertise of its most experienced team members. The name “Rosa” pays tribute to Rosetta, the grandmother of Chef Erick Williams, who profoundly shaped his life.

5230 S. Harper Ave. cantinarosa.com

Caribbean Jerk Palace

A fusion of Caribbean flavors brings exquisite Jerk cuisine, delightful island dishes, and sumptuous seafood offerings. 120 W. 87th St. caribbeanjerkpalaceinc.com

CheSa’s Bistro

Upscale Creole, gluten-free menu in Avondale, from Five Cheese Alligator Dip to Gumbo with chicken, shrimp and andouille sausage and Crawfish/Shrimp Etouffee. 3235 W. Addison St. chesasbistro.com

Chicago French Press

Ethically sourced coffee and tea, roasted for freshness in the Windy City, fueled by women and sustainably delivered - 5% of each retail bag benefits nonprofits supporting women and youth.

1021 S. Delano Court McCormick Place, 2301 S. Martin Luther King Dr. UIC Richard J. Daley Library Café, 601 S. Morgan University of Chicago Bookstore Café, 970 E. 58th chicagofrenchpress.com

Chicago’s Home of Chicken and Waffles

Serving up soul food, breakfast food and comfort food.

3947 S. King Drive 543 Madison St., Oak Park chicagoschickenandwaffles.com

Cleo’s Southern Cuisine

COVER STORY

Batter & Berries

Can’t Believe It’s Not Meat

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Afro Joe’s Coffee & Tea

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Caribbean-inspired cuisine and rhum, rums and rons cocktails, aim to bring a little bit of paradise to Hyde Park. Weekend brunch, $10 Tu-Th Happy Hour.

1644 E. 53rd St. 14parish.com

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Restaurants

The nation’s first woman-owned chocolate manufacturer and a James Beard nominee, Brown Sugar runs the gamut from soulful Southern recipes to Obama Cake: layers of red velvet, chocolate, and yellow cake with cream cheese frosting, chocolate drizzle and pecans. Pickups for cupcakes and slices, 24 hours’ notice for orders; Chicagoland delivery; nationwide shipping.

328 E. 75th St. brownsugarbakerychicago.com

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as an art hub, with wine talks, art openings and curated cultural events.

4420 S. Cottage Grove bronzevillewinery.com

With chicken rated a “perfect 10” by TikToker Keith Lee, partnerships with the Bulls, Bears and Sky, and a secret Mississippi Comeback sauce for its Southern cuisine, you’ll want to “taste the hype” too.

2826 N. Lincoln Ave. 4248 S. Cottage Grove Ave. 190 N. Wells St. eatcleos.com

www.streetwise.org

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Flippin Flavors

Every bite is a burst of flavors at this healthy sandwich and salad spot. Debit and credit card only.

1848 W. 95th St. www.flippinflavors.com

Forty Acres Fresh Market

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C & W Market and Ice Cream Parlor

Homemade ice cream, snacks, old fashioned candies, beverages, produce, frozen goods, dairy, soup, sandwiches and essentials. In addition to its food pantry foundation, C&W offers an ice cream truck and catering.

1901 Church St., Evanston cwmarketandicecreamparlor.com

Daisy’s PoBoy and Tavern

Named for James Beard-winning Chef Erick William’s late aunt by marriage, Up-South Po’-Boy shop evokes the vibrancy of New Orleans through its most celebrated and classic sandwich, fun colors, and music. 5215 S. Harper Ave. daisyspoboychicago.com

Dan’s Soul Food and Café

Short ribs, smothered pork or T-bone steak, catfish, turkey wings for the whole family, where every day is Thanksgiving.

2523 W. 79th St. danschicagosbest.com

Dat Donut

Oversized donuts in a variety of flavors, hand-cut every day and too good to dunk.8251 S. Cottage Grove Ave. 947 W. Wellington Ave. datdonut.com

Doughboy’s Chicago

High-quality comfort food, including its famous “Spaghedough.”

2537 S. Wabash Ave. www.doughboyschicago.com

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Peak-of-freshness produce sold at low prices, so every ’hood from the West Side to Westchester can be healthy. SNAP/ EBT users pay $5 for delivery, get Link Match coupons.

5713 W. Chicago Ave. www.fortyacresfreshmarket.com

Frontier

Whole animals served alongside oysters and tap brews by James Beard semifinalist. Will close August 10, then be available as a event space.

1072 N. Milwaukee Ave. thefrontierchicago.com

Fruitful Delight Smoothie & Juice Bar

Fresh, fruit-filled smoothies, coldpressed juices, healthy eats: delicious açaí bowls, salads, breakfast items, wraps, tacos, kabobs and sandwiches; full bar offering cocktails, mocktails, and more. 2 E. Cermak Road fruitfuldelightsmoothiebar.com

Garifuna Flava

Named for the Garifuna people of Central America, this Belizean restaurant offers Caribbean, Latin and Indigenous food and full bar with tropical drinks.

2518 W. 63rd St. www.garifunaflava.net

Harold’s Chicken

Started by Harold Pierce on the South Side in 1950, the franchise has expanded to 47 locations in eight states, which is noteworthy because it started in an era when larger fast-food chains avoided African American neighborhoods. Here are several Chicago locations: 9938 S. Torrence Ave. 9511 S. Ashland Ave. 7059 S. Halsted St. 7318 S. Vincennes

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1208 E. 53rd St. 407 E. 75th St. 1361 N. Milwaukee Ave. 1505 W. Madison 7200 S. Western Ave. 100 W. 87th St. 636 S. Wabash Ave. 2134 S. Michigan Ave. 124 E. 35th St. 1450 S. Michigan Ave. haroldschickencorp.com

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Basking in the ritual of traditional Ethiopian dining, savor a world of spices in the warm comfort of its communal atmosphere. 6120 N. Broadway ethiopiandiamondrestaurant.com

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Hecky’s

BBQ ribs, rib tips and chicken recipes handed down from Hecky Powell’s Creole grandmother in New Orleans. More than a carryout, Hecky’s gives back to the local community.

1902 Green Bay Road, Evanston heckys.com

Home of the Hoagy

Compact restaurant serving classic sandwiches for the most discerning palates - from cold cuts to steak on freshbaked bread 1316 W. 111th St. home-of-the-hoagy.weeblyte.com

Ina Mae

New Orleans-style seafood and chicken alongside live music performances.

1415 N. Wood St. www.inamaetavern.com

Ja Grill

Dive into a sea of flavors with traditional Jamaican dishes like Jerk Chicken, Curried Goat, Oxtail, Vegan Ital Stew and Whole Red Snapper Escoveitch, all made with authentic ingredients and cooking methods. 1510 E. Harper Court www.jagrill.com

Jerk Taco Man

Charcoal-grilled Jamaican jerks and other specialties derived from family recipes.

4001 W. Jackson 7723 S. State St. www.jerktacoman.com

Jerk Villa Bar & Grill

Vibrant Caribbean dining, from jerk chicken and seafood dishes to jerk chicken salads, party wings, and Jamaican beef patties. TV screens for sports enthusiasts. 2216 S. Michigan Ave. https://jerkvilla-bar-grill. restaurantsworld.com/

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Made-in-store confections and Original Recipe Ice Cream, handcrafted by 160 franchisees with stores in 28 states.

Navy Pier: 600 E. Grand Ave. 310 S. Michigan Ave. 5226 S. Harper Ave. 5224 N. Clark St. 737 N. Dearborn St. www.kilwins.com

Kizin Creole

Traditional Haitian meals in a straightforward dining room. 2311 W. Howard St. www.kizincreole.com

Lem’s BBQ

Vintage drive-in offers late-night BBQ and ribs to go. 311 E. 75th St. lemsque.com

Live and Believe Nutrition (the LAB)

Community space for workouts (dance, cardio, Thrive Drum Cardio,™ yoga and more) protein and energy drinks, good music and a lotta soul. 2025 W. 95th St. liveandbelievewellness.com

Long Room

Thoughtfully curated full scale coffee program, a playful ever-changing beer list, a well-rounded collection of spirits and inhouse developed and classic cocktails, complemented by four rotating restaurant partners, offering chef-driven “food truck style” breakfast, lunch, brunch, and dinner. 1612 W. Irving Park Road longroomchicago.com

Mima’s Taste of Cuba

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Kilwin’s

Health-focused spot with organic and vegetarian wraps, salads, bowls and more. 1368 E. 53rd St. litehousewholefoodgrill.com

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All-turkey-based BBQ tenders, links, tips, legs, burgers and more are a healthier option for those who want the taste but not the pork or beef. Also in LA and Minneapolis – and looking to franchise!

4353 S. Cottage Grove 17929 S. Halsted, Homewood justturkeygrill.com

Litehouse Whole Food Grill

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Just Turkey Grill

Chef Dominique recreates the aromas of her Grandma Betty King’s house, along with beef and Wagyu dogs. She and her wife Tanisha have been serving up Chicago BBQ and sides since 2016. Eat in, or enjoy curbside pickup, delivery and takeout. 756 E. 111th St. lexingtonbetty.com

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Sweet and savory pies, quiches and tarts. Maya-Camille Broussard established Justice of the Pies in honor of her late father, Stephen J. Broussard, a criminal defense attorney with a passion for baking and eating anything made with a crust, who believed everyone deserves an opportunity to reform their lives. The bakery’s signature I KNEAD LOVE Workshop provides elementary-aged children from lower-income communities instruction on nutritional development and basic cooking skills, as it encourages their kitchen creativity in the name of ending food insecurities. The Broussard Justice Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that works to eradicate food insecurity and decrease health disparity issues in underserved communities.

8655 S. Blackstone Ave. justiceofthepies.com

Lexington Betty Smokehouse

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Justice of the Pies

Family-owned popcorn house offering tins of unique flavors: bacon, jalapeno, ranch, in addition to the familiar cheese, caramel and butter.

11758 S. Western Ave. letsgetpoppin.com

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“Mother” Josephine gave employment to at-risk youth and served downhome cooking all day long to everyone from Mr. T to Mayor Rahm Emanuel.

The Queen of Soul, Aretha Franklin, stopped in for her Gumbo every time she came to town. That’s why the City of Chicago named her block of 79th Street Mother Josephine Wade Way. 436 E. 79th St. josephinescooking.net

Let’s Get Poppin, Inc.

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Josephine’s Southern Cooking

Tropical crafted cocktails and Cuban comfort food the way family’s matriarch made it. 2925 W. Irving Park Road mimastoc.com

Momentum Coffee

Premium coffee, lunch, catering and coworking.

1900 S. State St. 11 N. Michigan Ave. Austin: 5100 W. Harrison Garfield Park Conservatory, 300 N. Central Park Ave. momentumcoffee.org

The Park Bar and Grill

Contemporary soul food and American restaurant located steps from Washington Park. It offers a laid-back neighborhood vibe with elevated il l nd Gr ar a Luella’s Southern comfort food, rk B a eP Kitchen craft cocktails, Th Classic Southern fare with a modlive DJs, a ern twist – Shrimp and Grits, Butspacious termilk Fried Chicken – sourced outdoor locally. patio and 4144 N. Kedzie Ave. private luellassouthernkitchen.com event rooms.

Mabe’s Sandwich 65 E. Garfield Shop Park Freshness is its love language Blvd.

– for family, for food, for Chicahttps:// go – in a range of sandwiches, theparkbarsoups and salads. grill.com 312 E. 75th St. mabesss.com

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Pearl’s Place

The Soul Food Lounge

Sip & Savor

Fair Trade certified coffee, in a warm and colorful environment amid an aroma of ideas and resources.

5301 S. Hyde Park Blvd.

528 E. 43rd St. sipandsavorchicago.com

Soulé

Its name inspired by Biggie Small’s hiphop single, “Juicy,” Soule’ offers Creoleinspired food by reservation only.

3615 W. Roosevelt Road www.soulechicago.com

Soul Veg City

This plant-based vegan, soul food and Americana restaurant is leading Chicago into the future of cuisine. 203 E. 75th St. soulvegcity.com

South Shore Social Beach Club

Located at the South Shore Cultural Center Beach House, find takeout food and “Live at the Lakefront” music.

South Shore Cultural Center Beach House, 7059 S. South Shore Drive

Southern Chicago

Southern Chicago is a modern Southern restaurant located in the heart of the Chicago South Loop, offering a h ern t u So bold and refined take on classic American and Southern cuisine.

Designed for guests who appreciate elevated dining without the pretense, the restaurant blends rich tradition with global influences and contemporary style.

2000 S. Wabash Ave. www.southernchicagorestaurant.com

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Old-fashioned homemade goodness with high-quality ingredients, to create new memories.

46 E. 47th St. www.shawnmichelles.com

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Shawn Michelle’s Homemade Ice Cream

Cooking was Quentin Love’s refuge from gangs when he was growing up raised by his grandmother. The former Marine has devised healthy a soul food fusion of Italian, Mexican, American and Asian cuisines in North Lawndale and Beverly.

3804 W. 16th St. 10701 S. Hale Ave. thesoulfoodlounge.com

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Southern-style soul food in elegant space – one of USA Today’s 10 best Readers’ Choice buffets. 3901 S. Michigan Ave. pearlsplacerestaurant.com

Storyville

River North restaurant and cocktail bar offers elevated New Orleans-inspired cuisine, where you’ll be swept away by the exotic ambience of its main floor dining room, outfitted with plush red booths and alluring décor that evoke the Big Easy’s warm, soulful charm.

712 N. Clark St. storyvillechicago.com

Surf’s Up South Shore

Trice’s Original Slab Bar-B-Que

Originally opened in Chatham in 2003, this familyowned rib spot with signature sauce has reopened in South Shore.

1918 E. 71st St. slabbbq.com

Truth Restaurant

Lively seafood counter/takeout expresses Southern beach living.

2236 E. 71st St. www.surfsupdivein.com/location/southshore

Choices run from all-day breakfast and soul food to relaxed Italian from its mission to be a world-class kitchen that produces five-star cuisine for everyday people. 56 E. Pershing Road truthchicago39.com

Sweet Maple Café

Two Fish Crab Shack

Country-style meals with all-day breakfast and lunch options.

1339 W. Taylor St. sweetmaplecafechicago.com

Taste 222

Stylish “New American” cuisine and unique beverages in upscale West Loop restaurant/event space.

222 N. Canal St. taste222chicago.com

Taylor’s Tacos

Taco catering and events company that specializes in authentic street-style tacos with a whole lot of Chicago soul. Influences are Taylor’s sojourn in SoCal and Maya’s experience with her mother’s organic garden and her dad’s consulting to Ethiopian restaurants. Good Morning America called its “sexy crispy shrimp taco” the best in Chicago.

135 N. Kedzie Ave taylorstacoschicago.com tu Vir

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Beach-themed space providing custom seafood boils and fried fish.

641 E. 47th St. twofishcrabshack.com

Uncle Remus

Founded by Charmaine Rickette Alfred’s folks Gus and Mary in 1969, this chain – and its “Big Saucy” food truck – brings the taste of the West Side: saucy fried chicken.

5611 W. Madison St. 2537 S. Wabash Ave. (inside Picnic/ South Loop) www.uncleremususa.com

Vee-Vee’s African Restaurant

Casual eatery specializing in Nigerian comfort dishes such as jollof rice, fufu, and suya. 6232 N. Broadway veeveesafricantogo.com

Virtue

Chef Erick Williams became the first Black chef to win Best Chef/Great Lakes from the James Beard Foundation for this Southern American restaurant that leads with a culture of hospitality & kindness, provides great value and uses heritage techniques to create some familiar flavors, some new ones. He founded the Virtue Leadership Development program, a not-for-profit incubator equipping young adults of color with entrepreneurial and leadership skills through hands-on training in the restaurant industry. 1462 E. 53rd St. virtuerestaurant.com

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All Butter’d Up

Luxurious shower gels, body butters and body oils bring daily care to a spa-level experience, inspired by a history of helping a grandmother with severe skin issues. allbutterdup.com

Chatto Skin & Hair Care

Powerful, plant-based solutions that go beyond trends to deliver real, lasting results for men’s and women’s hair, scalp, and skin.

2023 W. Carroll Ave. chatto.com

Crystal-Eyez Makeup and Beauty Lounge

Certified makeup artists, certified lash & brow technicians, licensed hair stylists & aestheticians and classes.

1933 S. Archer Ave. crystal-eyez.com

Hanahana Beauty

Abena Boamah-Acheampong was a therapist and 7th grade math teacher who went back to her mother’s favorite ingredient in the name of humanity and intention. Hanahana’s shea butter is ethically-sourced from the Katariga Women’s Shea Cooperative in Tamale, Ghana and combined with all-natural oils to bring out the true beauty in your skin.

Women in the cooperative have access to health care, education, and economic growth opportunities. hanahanabeauty. com

Hyde Park Hair Salon

Elevate your grooming in the manner of Devon Hester, Muhammad Ali, Harold Washington -- and President Barack Obama. 5234 S. Blackstone Ave. hydeparkhairsalon.biz

Jordan’s Beauty Supply

Professional products and continuing education.

1911 E. 79th St. jordansbeautysupply.com

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Lifestyle & Wellness

Le ’Flair Hair Lounge

Salon run by internationally known stylist Ashley “Fushia Le ’Flair” Peters weaves its years of skill and artistry into your hair, along with a unique blend of ethics, privacy and time management to have you walk away feeling revitalized.

1s132 Summit Ave., #301a, Oakbrook Terrace leflairhair.com

Luster Products

African American, family-owned and operated since 1957, Luster Products Inc. manufactures quality hair and personal care products sold throughout the U.S. and internationally.1104 W. 43rd St. lusterproducts.com

NWäR Studios, Inc.

NWAR prides itself on offering a judgement-free space, regardless of your identity, for your waxing, facials and lash extensions. 5204 N. Damen Ave. nwarstudiosinc.com

Patrice’s Picture of Beauty Hair Salon

306 E. 75th pictureofbeauty.net

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Pear Nova

Rachel James founded this nail polish company in 2012 to address the lack of colors for medium to dark skin. Named to honor the Nova Pear tree, it’s crueltyfree and vegan-friendly, free of 10 toxic ingredients such as toluene, formaldehyde and phthalates. pearnova.com

ProFit Studio

Individualized training within small groups, a diverse range of multi-level classes, private personal training, meal planning, and nutrition counseling at 6,500-square-foot boutique fitness studio. 3700 S. Indiana Ave. profitstudiochicago.com

Solo Beauty Supply

Showcasing Black hair care products: wigs, braiding hair, weaves and more.

9011 S. Ashland Ave. 8158 S. Cottage Grove www.solobeautysupply.com

Spifster Nails

Tacarra “Spifster” Sutton started on her own nails with felt-tip pen and a single shade of polish to kick her nail-biting habit. She gained her nickname because she is so able to make anything “spiffy” and has drawn the attention of Debi Mazar, Danielle Brooks, Taraji P. Henson and brands like Nike, Cadillac and Topshop. spifter.com

www.streetwise.org

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DeskFlex

Smart desk booking and office hoteling solutions tailored for more flexible, efficient, productive remote and hybrid workers.

111 W. Jackson Blvd., Suite 1146 deskflex.com

Doc Able’s Auto Clinic

Auto repair, tire sales, brake repair, oil changes, wheel alignments and towing services to Chicago and the North Shore.

936 Chicago Ave., Evanston https://docable.com

Donna’s Loving Doggy Palace, Inc.

SERVICES Black Box Creative

Marketing service specializing in web design and digital promotion for businesses. 432 E. 46th Place #2 blackboxcreative.com

Bronze Balloons

Balloons in 80 latex colors sculpted into fanciful arrangements and highlighted by milestone numbers special to you.

1010 W. 35th St. bronzeballoons.com

Christmas in the Wards

Chicago City Council members work with school principals to find families in need at the holidays and to take them shopping – 40 wards and 625 families in 2024. 1030 E. 87th St. www.christmasinthewards.com

Creative Genius Law

Legal services for people in creative industries: arts, entertainment and media.

171 N. Aberdeen, Suite 400 creativegeniuslaw.com p

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Pet groomer 75th off the Dan Ryan Expy. https://pocketsuite.io/book/Donnasloving-doggy-palace-inc/items

Gone Again Travel & Tours

First African American-owned storefront travel agency on the West Side has a mission to help you stress less and travel more by providing expert advice for your budget and convenient payment plans.

4952 W. Chicago Ave. www.goneagaintravel.com

ILA Creative Studio

ILA (I LOVE ART) provides Educational Programming to support artistic sustainability; Curated Events that amplify the voices of Black artists; and Community Building -- connecting artists, organizations and creative leaders to support the next generation of Black artists.

Merchandise Mart Plaza, Suite 1212 https://ilastudio.homesteadcloud.com

Knight, Morris and Reddick Law Group

Black women-owned firm ensures your real estate transactions are seamless and secure.

333 S. Wabash Ave., Unit 2700 kmrlawgroup.com

MoHall Commercial and Urban Development

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Full-service commercial real estate brokerage dedicated to representing investors, landlords, tenants, and property owners in Chicago and surrounding suburbs.

350 N. Orleans St. #9000n mohallcommercialud.com

My Girlfriendz Party Rentals

ALL your needs, from photo booth to custom decorations, bartenders, photographers and portable restrooms. mygirlfriendsphotobooth.com

Neat Cleaning Services

Experienced cleaners use toxin-free products on your home.

7609 W. Irving Park Road https://neatcleaningserviceschicago. weebly.com

Official Anais Consulting

PR firm elevates the brands of local entrepreneurs, small businesses, and nonprofits to national and international levels with social media management, fundraising consultations and branding services; and gives back to the community. vauveanais.com

Cherry Mountain Arts

Founded in 2022 by artist RELLO, Cherry Mountain has grown into a premier destination for curated fine art gifts where rare objects, streetwear, and design intersect. No longer a gallery, it champions collectible art in all forms, offering pieces that feel just as at home on a bookshelf as they do in a frame. It redefines what it means to collect. 400 S. Green St. cherrymountain.com

GoGoVie

Premium baby carriers.

1449 S. Michigan Ave. gogovie.com

Galler y Guichard

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Custom totes, mugs and more by Black artists, created in 2010 to fill a void for women of color in the graphic T-shirt market (and show love to the fellas, too). wearbonbonvie.com

Since 1997, The Silver Room has been supporting local designers and hosting events to build a global community through art and culture. Find jewelry, apparel, accessories, apothecary and more in a showroom experience that introduces you to a unique arrangement of goods, sounds and events.

1506 E. 53rd St. thesilverroom.com T hird C oa s t C

Bon Bon Vie

Silver Room

Third Coast Comics

Mainstream and independent comics, graphic novels and pull lists – matching your taste is their superpower!

6443 N. Sheridan Road thirdcoastcomics.com

Event Spaces Absolutely Anything Essential

Three-story brownstone is a community market, entertainment space and gift shop run by entrepreneurs and small business owners. Find an array of public and private events, classes, as well as gifts, soaps, candles, natural teas, herbs and wellness products, tasty treats, home decor items, apparel, jewelry and more. 3521 S. King Drive absolutelyanythingessential.com

Frontier

On August 10, after 15 years as a restaurant for one-of-a-kind, whole-animal dining feasts, Frontier is transitioning to chef pop-ups and private events. Its two-story, lodgeinspired space, complete with all-weather beer garden and stone fireplace, will be available to groups ranging from the intimate to 350 guests.

1072 N. Milwaukee Ave. thefrontierchicago.com

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Gallery Guichard

Gallery opened in 2005 with the mission to expose patrons to multicultural artists specializing in the art of the African Diaspora, thus creating platforms for artists and collectors to meet. Through fine art exhibitions, experiential events, and art tours, Gallery Guichard gives emerging underrepresented talent and mid-career artists an opportunity to develop their imagination and creativity. The Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York now holds Gallery Guichard’s virtual exhibition catalogs in what is considered the world’s largest collection of contemporary art catalogs.

436 E. 47th St. galleryguichard.com

The Little Black Pearl

Little Black Pearl is a creative learning and leadership ecosystem rooted in art, design, food, and culture. Through youth programs, leadership development, workforce training, and cultural experiences, it connects creativity to real-world pathways and economic opportunity.

1060 E. 47th St. www.blackpearl.org

The Quarry Event Center

Located in Chicago's South Shore, the Quarry is a premier cultural hub. It features a large hall with a stage, a commercial kitchen, a retail storefront, and a patio, serving as a vibrant center for community empowerment, local entrepreneurship, and live entertainment.

2423 E. 75th St. www.thequarrychi.com

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Chicago-based, Black-owned premium whiskey brand was founded by Jesse Steward Jr. in 2021. Inspired by the legacy of his grandfathers and named after his son, the brand celebrates family, storytelling, and connection through a thoughtfully crafted collection of bourbons and rye whiskeys. www.alexanderjameswhiskey.com

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Named for Chicago’s first settler, the 62-year-old DuSable is the nation’s oldest independent African American museum, a Smithsonian Institution affiliate and a place to explore the landscape of Black history across the Diaspora.

740 E. 56th Place dusablemuseum.org

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Craft Breweries, Spirits & Dispensaries

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DuSable Black History Museum and Education Center

A welcoming platform for artists in the community who desire to soar and a meeting place for the community to explore the richness that the local arts have to offer. 2136 W. Chicago Ave. https://poseculturalartgallery.godaddysites.com/

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“Everything Dope About America Comes from Chicago,” says TikTok historian Sherman “Dilla” Thomas. Take his tour of Bronzeville, Chatham, Englewood, Pullman-Roseland, Bridgeport/Stockyard, Chatham, North Lawndale or Pilsen/ Little Village. chicagomahogany.com

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Chicago Mahogany Tours

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Premier Blues club owned by the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductee, who was a major influence on Jimi Hendrix, Eric Clapton, and Stevie Ray Vaughan, and who is a pioneer of Chicago’s fabled West Side electric blues.

700 S. Wabash Ave. buddyguy.com

The NYCH Gallery is where contemporary art meets comfort and relatability.

Not your typical art gallery – it strives to provide an innovative and interesting blend of creative media that inspire and speak to a diverse audience.

2025 S. Laflin www.nychgallery.com

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Buddy Guy’s Legends

NYCH Gallery

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Chicago’s premier Afro-contemporary dance company was founded in 2008 by Artistic Director & CEO Vershawn Sanders-Ward. Its award-winning ensemble of versatile Artivists tours and performs locally, nationally, and inter nationally; it elevates Black dance traditions and thus harnesses the transformative power of dance to address social issues and inspire change. With classes and studios, its Woodlawn location is an arts hub. 808 E. 63rd St. www.redclaydance.com

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Founded in 1976 by actress/producer/ playwright Jackie Taylor, BET is known for high-caliber productions related to African American culture, especially musicals depicting Black musicians and performers; for community outreach through the arts; and for theatrical and technical theater training opportunities for youth. It has a mission to eradicate racism and in 2011 it opened the Black Ensemble Theater Cultural Center, the theater’s first permanent home in the heart of Uptown.

4450 N. Clark St. blackensembletheater.org

Incorporated as a nonprofit in 1971 to give training and performance opportunities to youth and adults, eta has a commitment to the production of new works that “tell our story” in the first voice. It is a major institution for the preservation, perpetuation, and promulgation of African American aesthetic in the city, state and nation. Now located in a former abandoned storm window factory, its 16,000-square-foot building holds a state-of-the-art 200-seat theater, a library, gallery, classrooms, workshop space and offices.

7558 S. South Chicago Ave. etacreativearts.org

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Bull Young Bourbon

Bull Young Bourbon is a premium, chefcrafted whiskey founded by Chef Danny Bullock, whose culinary expertise and passion for exceptional spirits inspired the brand.

Launched in 2020, Bull Young Bourbon is committed to quality, innovation, and creating memorable experiences with a smooth, approachable bourbon crafted to bring people together.

Bullyoungbourbon.com

Funkytown Brewery

Inspired by Chicago's vibrant craft beer scene and the sounds of '90s hip-hop and R&B, Funkytown Brewery began as a homebrewing passion in a family garage before launching in 2021. Today, the brewery is dedicated to expanding access to craft beer in underserved communities, educating consumers about beer styles and flavors, and increasing diversity and representation on the shelves of retailers across the region. www.funkytownbeer.com

Grasshopper Club Dispensary

The Grasshopper Club made history as Chicago's first independent, Blackowned dispensary.

Located in the heart of Logan Square, the family-owned business is led by co-owners Matthew Brewer, Chuck Brewer, and their mother, Dianne Brewer. 2551 N. Milwaukee Ave. Grasshopperclub. com

Ivy Hall Dispensary

Ivy Hall is a premier recreational cannabis dispensary with locations throughout the Chicago area, recognized for its innovative "sensory

dispensary" concept. Blending boutiquestyle design with a warm, welcoming atmosphere, Ivy Hall offers a thoughtfully curated shopping experience that encourages exploration, education, and connection.

1720 N. Damen 3115 W. Armitage ivyhalldispensary.com

Love Cork Screw Wine Company

Black-owned and woman-owned wine brand seeks to make wine more accessible to everyone by breaking down the myth that it has to be fancy or expensive to be good, and that there are stiff rules about serving it. Chrishon Lampley’s award-winning premium red, white, and rosé varietals are more than wine, they’re a whole mood. In stores and online. https://lovecorkscrew.com

Michael Lavelle Wines

Premium award-winning wine company featured on menus of Michelin-starred and acclaimed restaurants was created with a mission to solve the glaring void in fresh, culturally relevant wine craftsmanship marketed to millennials and minority audiences. Launched in June 2020 by Howard University alum Aaron "Michael" Coad and Terrence "Lavelle" Low along with their partners, Sommelier Devin M. Kennedy and Brandon L. Crump, it is the youngest Black-owned wine company, according to its Linked In profile. Find its California wines at Whole Foods, Binny’s and its website. sipmichaellavelle.com

Moor’s Brewing Company

Moor's Brewing Company is a Blackowned Chicago craft brewery founded in 2021 by Jamhal Johnson and Damon Patton to bring greater diversity and representation to the craft beer industry.

Named in honor of the Moors of North Africa, the brewery is known for its approachable, flavorful beers that celebrate culture, community, and craftsmanship.

Moorsbeer.com

Renard Whiskey

Renard American Whiskey is dedicated to crafting whiskey that embodies smooth sophistication and bold character. Rooted in tradition, quality, and connection, the brand creates a spirit designed to bring people together—whether for intimate moments, lively gatherings, or memorable nights at their favorite tavern. www.renardwhiskey.com

Spark’d Dispensary

Spark'd Dispensary South Loop is a Black woman-owned cannabis dispensary founded by sisters Loretta Foster, a

Navy veteran, and Priscilla Foster, a social services professional with more than 30 years of experience serving people experiencing homelessness and those in recovery. Guided by a commitment to community, Spark'd offers a welcoming retail experience while honoring veterans and older adults through special discounts. 2114 S. Wabash Ave. 1212 N. Ashland Ave. www.sparkdcannabis.com

Sway Dispensary

Sway Dispensary is a historic, all-minority, LGBTQ+, and veteran-owned cannabis establishment. Rooted in social equity, it offers curated craft products, exclusive collaborations, and a welcoming, inclusive space. 3340 N. Halsted everybodysway.com

Turner Haus Brewery

Turner Häus Brewery is a microbrewery focusing on creating a fun, welcoming environment for craft beer enthusiasts and homebrewers alike. It specializes in brewing premium high gravity beers with the ancestors in mind. All of its beers are named after women in its family.

78 E. 47th St. www.turnerhausbrew.com

Local Media BLAC Chicago

A lifestyle and culture media brand focusing on Black-inspired home, fashion, skin care representation, and local events. https://chicago.blac.media

BLK Chicago

A localized media platform and cultural infrastructure to find the best pop-ups, parties, art shows and food. Whether you’re visiting or outside every weekend, there's something to do. Explore. Experience. Repeat. www.blkchicago.com

Chicago Defender

Historic online African-American newspaper focusing on local and national news. chicagodefender.com

The TRiiBE

An award-winning, independent digital media company reshaping the narrative of Black Chicago through truth, liberation, and multimedia storytelling. thetriibe.com

95.1 FM Chicago

Owned by Tracey Bell, this is recognized as the city's only Black-owned and woman-owned broadcast radio station https://chicago.blac.media/

www.streetwise.org

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Book Stores Afriware Books

Black-owned mobile bookstore and resource center with a customer pick-up location (by appointment only) in the Chicago suburb of Oak Park. Since 1993 AfriWare Books has served the community by providing a platform to showcase authors, artists and advocates who infuse the community k with cultural pride. e Boo d th yo n www.afriwarebooks.com Be

Preserving Chicago’s Heritage,

Beyond the Book

Its mission is to create a vibrant platform for writers to showcase their exceptional skills, while inspiring the next generation of storytellers. Join them as they build a thriving literary enterprise that focuses on personal growth, leadership, and a passion for storytelling across a diverse range of topics. ​18063 Dixie Hwy., Homewood http://beyondthebook.online

one building at a time.

Call & Response

Call & Response is a Black woman-owned neighborhood bookstore in Chicago’s Hyde Park/Kenwood community dedicated to fostering a love of reading, connection, and the exchange of ideas across cultures and backgrounds.

The bookstore centers voices from the global majority, creating an inclusive space that celebrates diverse perspectives, deepens understanding, and strengthens community through literature and conversation.

1390 E. Hyde Park Blvd. www.callandresponsechi.com

Honey & Hue Bookstore

Salty Books & Beans

Salty Books & Beans is a family-owned, independent bookstore located in the Beverly neighborhood of Chicago. The community shop offers a wide variety of books for all ages, alongside freshly roasted coffee, tea, and local gift items 2134 W. 95th St. https://saltybooksandbeans.net

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Honey & Hue Bookstore is a Chicago-based independent bookstore founded by Raven R. White, a welcoming space where books, culture, and community come together. Located on the South Side, the bookstore offers a thoughtfully curated selection of titles while hosting events, author experiences, and literacy programming that celebrate diverse voices and inspire connection.

1804 W. 103rd St. www.honeyandhuebookstore.com

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Da Book Joint is a Black woman-owned bookstore on Chicago’s South Side offering a diverse collection of African American literature across genres. In addition to providing access to books, the bookstore hosts curated events that bring readers and authors together to celebrate storytelling, culture, and community. 6900 S. Stony Island Ave. www.dabookjoint.com

Eric Allix Rogers

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Love Your City Fiercely!®

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Tiffany Mosaic Ceiling (1907) At Marshall Field’s / Macy’s on State Street Over 1.6 million pieces of iridescent favrile glass comprise the 6,000-square-foot barrel-vaulted mosaic ceiling designed by Tiffany Studios.

Designated a Chicago Landmark on November 1, 2005 Ward Miller Richard H. Driehaus Executive Director of Preservation Chicago

(312) 443-1000 WMiller@PreservationChicago.org

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Streetwise 7/12/21 Crossword

Sudoku

To solve the Sudoku puzzle, each row, column and box must contain the numbers 1 to 9.

©2016 PuzzleJunction.com

59 Mine passages 64 Roswell sightings 66 Cup handle 67 Nativity scene 68 Ballet wear 69 It has strings attached 70 Exhaustive 71 Strong cleaner 72 ___ capita 73 Cashing in one’s chips

7 Lettuce variety 35 Trifle 8 Waste pipe 37 Moonfish 9 Eccentric 38 Arizona city 10 Wrist joints 39 Garden figure 11 French farewell 41 Cover story?

12 Peacock 46 English ___ network 49 Study 15 Junk E-mail 51 Just about 20 On pins and 52 Joint problem ng needles 53 Horrible 21 Sherpa’s home 54 Bubkes 24 Append 55 Fruit-peeling 26 Undiluted device 27 White hat 58 Tahoe, e.g.

Down wearer 60 Supermarket 1 Stag 28 German mister section 29 La Scala 2 Blackhearted 61 It’s clicked on a e 3 Track highlight computer assignment 30 “Phèdre” 62 Hoodlum 4 Plains Indian playwright 63 Collector’s goal 34 “The Matrix” 5 Refusals 65 Take to court ©2016 6 Get on Copyright ___ role PuzzleJunction.com 67 No-goodnik

Copyright ©2021 PuzzleJunction.com

©PuzzleJunction.com

answers from June 29 edition Sudoku Solution Solution

Sudoku Solution

Find your nearest StreetWise Vendor at www.streetwise.org

Crossword Across 1 Putting woes 5 Logs Z’s 9 Mail deliverers 13 Demolish 14 Aid in crime 15 Student of Seneca 16 Mentally quick 17 Waxy covering of a bird’s beak 18 Auspices (Var.) 19 Fortify 20 Chernobyl natives 23 High regard 25 Kind of drive 26 Deserving 28 Sharpen 29 On the road 30 Sugarcoat ©2021 PuzzleJunction.com 33 Working day 37 Hideout 11 Light 64 Oklahoma city 38 Ancillary refractor 65 Start with while 40 Rarer than rare 66 Poseidon’s 12 “Send help!”

41 Lay to rest 13 Scottish cap mother 43 Penny, perhaps 67 Leave in, as text 21 Like a piano 44 Sea predator 22 Latin clarifier 45 Look like a 24 Eye infection Down wolf 26 Dry riverbed 1 Eastern 47 Tooth decay 27 John Irving’s discipline 49 Overthrow “A Prayer for 2 Gypsy 51 Lucky charm ___ Meany” 3 Goombah 53 Web site 28 Left 4 Investigator necessity 5 Mother-of-pearl 31 Like some 55 Bruiser doors 6 Crosswise, on 58 Eric of Monty 32 Overhead deck Python fame 7 Persian spirit light?

59 Slave away 34 Peevish 8 Fetor 60 Automaton 9 Discover 35 Type of card 62 Astute 36 “___ the night 10 Musical 63 Brewer’s kiln before...” notation

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39 Bodily cavity 42 Ingredient 44 Bonanza find 46 Newspaper worker 48 Advisories 49 Milk dispenser 50 Ends of the earth 51 Biscotto flavoring 52 Gozo Island is part of it 54 Genesis skipper 56 Assignment 57 LAX info 58 Mamie’s man 61 Loophole

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