A beloved Uptown bike shop has reopened under new leadership. Mechanics Leah Plummer and Nina Hazelton, longtime employees of the shop formerly known as Uptown Bikes, have taken over ownership and relaunched it as Broadway Bikes at 4653 N. Broadway. After a short closure for renovations, the shop officially reopened on February 4, 2025, continuing its legacy of providing quality, commuter-focused bike services. The new owners aim to build community through events and classes while maintaining the shop’s
Jackie Taylor Breaks New Ground at Black Ensemble Theater Jackie Taylor, the trailblazing founder and CEO of Chicago’s Black Ensemble Theater, is taking a bold step in 2025 with her newest production, Elvis Presley was a Black Man Named Joe. Unlike the theater’s traditional jukebox-style shows, this musical is deeply personal and autobiographical, telling the story of Taylor’s upbringing in Cabrini-Green and her close bond with her brother Joe—both lifelong fans of Elvis Presley. The show marks a
The buzz around seasonal marketing often centers on major brands and their big-budget blitzes, but that doesn't mean small businesses are locked out of the game. When approached with intention, seasonal campaigns can offer lean, high-impact opportunities that sidestep costly ad spends. Timing and creativity, not money, become the core drivers of attention. Done right, they can inject urgency, relevance, and personality into a small business's outreach—without requiring a complete marketing
Managing a team involves making difficult decisions, including determining when it’s appropriate to part ways with an employee or contractor. This process requires careful consideration and a structured approach to ensure a smooth transition for all parties involved. By implementing effective strategies, organizations can handle these transitions with professionalism and empathy, maintaining a positive work environment. From streamlining document management to fostering a culture of feedback and growth,
At the 2025 Banchet Awards, Uptown Restaurants Carino and Ragadan took home awards. Carino won Best New Restaurant and Ragadan won Best Counter Service. Congratulations to our Uptown winners!https://www.wbez.org/food-drink/2025/01/26/chicago-banchet-food-awards-top-chef-restaurant-pizza-best-bar#:~:text=Jelena%20Prodan%20accepts%20a%20Banchet,with%20S.K.Y.%2C%20Valhalla%20and%20Apolonia.&text=Servers%20Heather%20Christie%20and%20Dennis,Award%20for%20Best%20Neighborhood%20Restaurant.
Running a small business today means more than just focusing on profits; it involves making conscious choices that benefit the environment and society. Adopting sustainable practices can seem daunting, but with thoughtful planning, it becomes an integral part of your business model. By embracing sustainability, you not only reduce your ecological footprint but also enhance your brand’s reputation and operational efficiency. Here are some practical strategies to help your small business thrive