By now you know the drill: we’re stuck indoors, working from home and grasping onto anything that sparks joy. But at least the sun is shining, there is good news on the horizon and we have five ways for you to support local, and stay sane. Here is what we are digging this week.
Saving Small Business Chicago: Shop for good
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If you love receiving mail as much as I do, why not shop for some new locally made tees that support our favorite businesses? Designed by local artists and printed in Buffalo Grove by Barrel Maker Press, you can choose from designs that honor The Davis Theater, Thalia Hall, Flowers for Dreams and Claudio, the original tamale guy, to just list a few. $10 from every shirt will be split among the businesses represented. This is also the second fundraiser by Barrel Maker, who previously raised $71,000 for 19 local businesses.
Enjoy a concert from a safe distance (or in your home)
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With all concerts canceled through May, Evanston’s SPACE has pivoted to offer musicians a platform to perform virtually in their All Dressed Up & Nowhere to Show sessions. During the livestream on SPACE’s Facebook page, viewers can also tip musicians (a $5 donation is suggested), ask questions and requests songs. SPACE has also created a new “to-go” concert package, where a musician will safely play in your front yard or a small, secure area. With safety precautions in order (and an ample heads-up to your neighbors), you can book a local article for one of these sessions, that also includes pizza from Union Squared, drinks for 10, cookies from Noir d’Ebene and SPACE merchandise.
Get out and grill
Finally, grilling season is upon us, and if you have the space there is no better way to get some sunshine while enjoying the outdoors. Here are some recipes our readers love, that we think you’ll love too:
Grilled Veggie Skewers with Chimichurri Sauce
Grilled Pizza
Beer Can Chicken
Backyard Barbecued Ribs
And of course, the perfect wine to pair with your BBQ.
Try science-backed ways to improve your mood
We can probably guess the reason you are in a bad mood (aren’t we all?). Here are a dozen simple, science-backed and expert-approved strategies for improving your mood each and every day.
Learn the secrets to a coveted Lula Cafe Dish
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Fans of Pasta YiaYia, this is your chance to learn the secrets at home from Chef Jason Hammel and Team Lula! Logan Square favorite Lula Cafe is currently closed with the shutdown, but they are offering a free virtual class on May 16 where you can learn how to make this pasta dish and a Daytime Old Fashioned. All you need to do is safely purchase a bottle of BERTOUX Brandy from Binny’s and email proof to snag your ticket (and the supply list).
Planning a virtual event? We would love to feature—please submit your details here!
How You Can Help
As you take care of your own well being and mental health, consider that many are also struggling right now. Here are some organizations that accept donations that help give people the support and supplies they need to get through this time.
- A Safe Haven Foundation
A Safe Haven provides housing for individuals and families whose lives have been impacted negatively by addiction. - NAMI Chicago
NAMI provides hope and improves the quality of life for those whose lives are affected by mental health conditions. - The Family Institute at Northwestern University
Connect virtually with therapists, researchers and educators.
Find more deserving nonprofits on our Better List.
More from Better
Here’s How You Can Support Local Businesses During the COVID-19 Shutdown
Coronavirus: What You Need To Know About COVID-19 — Here’s the Latest
What Is It Really Like to Have Coronavirus? Patients Share Their Stories
Macaire Douglas lives in the Chicago suburbs with her husband and two sons. She proudly supports Save Abandoned Babies Foundation, a Chicago-based nonprofit organization that works tirelessly to prevent the illegal abandonment of newborns nationwide. Since its inception in 2000, more than 3,600 newborns have been safely surrendered and adopted into loving homes.
