Cracker Barrel removes pride page from website amid rebrand controversy

Cracker Barrel has faced intense scrutiny by conservative activists over its past support of LGBT causes, while dealing with consumer backlash over its rebranding efforts.

Disney adults: Superfans, nostalgia seekers, or just misunderstood? | ChicagoNOW
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Labels paint a picture, but few spark stronger reactions than Disney adults. Are they just superfans of a "kids' brand," or a thriving community finding connection, nostalgia, and belonging? Disney expert and author AJ Wolfe joins us to discuss why Disney has appealed to grown-ups since the very beginning.

Labor Day Weekend 2025: Festivals, concerts and events

Chicago is sending the summer off in style. Here is a guide to things to do Labor Day weekend 2025.

How cuts to SNAP affect Chicago area food pantries

More than 1.8 million people in Illinois rely on SNAP, also known as the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, to help purchase groceries. 

These are the 'hardest working states' in 2025, data suggests

Which U.S. states work the hardest? New data ranked all 50 states based on hours worked, multiple jobs and more. Here’s what researchers found.

Northwestern Medicine unveils National Institute of Health Baby Toolbox | ChicagoNOW
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Developmental scientists and medical social science experts at Northwestern University have spearheaded the creation of the most recent National Institute of Health Toolbox. This provides the newest nationally standardized assessment of cognitive, language, motor and social-emotional skill development in infants aged 16 days to 42 months. Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine's Richard Gershon discusses what led to the toolbox's creation.

Eco-friendly travel tips for your next fall getaway
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Orbridge President Jim Staples shares how travelers can reduce their carbon footprint while exploring destinations in the U.S. and abroad.

Too late to garden? Never! Fall gardening tips with coach Amy Powers
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Gardening coach Amy Powers joins us to share how anyone?yes, even beginners?can prep their garden for fall, avoid common mistakes, and learn the basics of transplanting and dividing plants like a pro.

Integrative medicine, chronic illness insights & lifestyle tips | ChicagoNOW
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What's gone viral? Integrative medicine physician Dr. Amy Offutt joins us to share insights on integrative approaches to health. Then, we take a closer look at understanding chronic illnesses like Lyme disease and the role environmental factors can play. Plus, practical lifestyle tips to help boost your well-being.

Why more Chicagoland homebuyers are walking away from housing contracts
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This summer, purchasing agreements are seeing an uptick in cancellations as more homebuyers back out. Baird & Warner's Sammy Lubeck breaks down what's happening in the Chicagoland market in relation to this.

Buttercup brings bold new flavor to Chicago's South Loop
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Part amaro bar, part daytime caf?, Buttercup blends Italian tradition with local flair ? owners Israel Idonije and Luke DeYoung share what makes this new spot truly unique.

Back-to-school fun: Top educational toys that help kids learn
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Toy expert James Zahn from The Toy Insider shares some of the season?s hottest ?toys that teach? ? proving learning and play can go hand in hand.

'The Short Game,' how to ask for a raise & back-to-school sleep health | ChicagoNOW
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What's trending in Chicago? Chicago filmmaker David Parks discusses the making of 'The Short Game,' hitting theaters August 29. Then, career and leadership expert Dr. Shveta Miglani shares strategies to confidently ask for a raise. Plus, with back-to-school season underway, an expert explains how early school start times can impact students' health.

How to ask for a raise: Advice from a career expert

Asking for a raise can feel risky when the economy is unpredictable, but experts say these tips can make all the difference.

Asking for a raise? Here's how to do it confidently | ChicagoNOW
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In today's workplace, one of the toughest conversations for professionals to navigate is asking for a raise. But according to career and leadership expert Dr. Shveta Miglani, now may actually be the right moment to speak up. She joins us with strategies to advocate for your worth and approach the conversation with clarity and confidence.

Top 10 U.S. party schools ranked for 2026: See who made the list | ChicagoNOW
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If you're looking to attend college for its fun and entertainment, you may want to check out this new list. The company Niche ranked the top party schools in the US for 2026. They surveyed to rank the quality of the party scene of each school. Some notable close schools are the University of Wisconsin-Madison at #5 and the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign at #10.