■ Top cop calls for West Side collaboration PAGE 2
FREE Vol. 38 No. 7
February 14, 2024 ■ Also serving Garfield Park ■ austinweeklynews.com
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SSpecial i l iinsertt INSIDE
PRIMARY ELECTIONS
What to know about the March primary on the West Side Which progressive’s record will persuade voters? By ERIKA HOBBS Editor
The spotlight is on two West Side races in the March 19 primary. In the heated race for incumbent Danny K. Davis’ seat – a district that includes much of the West Side and west suburban Oak Park and Forest Park – all eyes will be on ethics and age. He and challenger Melissa Conyears-Ervin both have come under fire in the past year for alleged ethics violations. Davis, one of the oldest members in Congress, has been criticized for holding on too long. Mayor Brandon Johnson’s former Cook County commissioner seat, too, is up for grabs. Will it go with partybacked Tara Stamps, who was appointed as an interim, or activist Zerlina A. Smith-Members? Here’s what to know about the elections, the candidates and where and how to vote. See PRIMARY ELECTIONS on page 8
COURTESY OF GRACE URRUTIA
A Diaspora Dinner cooking class stretches from a black eyed pea salad recipe to discussions of food justice.
Garfield Park Conservatory celebrates Black History Month Whether it’s tours or a cooking class, the Conservatory offers celebratory free events this month
By JESSICA MORDACQ Staff Reporter
Garfield Park Conservatory is celebrating Black History Month with free programs for all ages. Most don’t require reservations, although the conservatory recommends booking online in advance in order to visit the conservatory. See CONSERVATORY on page 4
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