Chad the Bird Rants and Raves at the Green Mill

By Brendan Hickey Actor Josh Zagoren opens up about about his original character “Chad the Bird,” a funny creature from Laguna Beach who is dumbfounded by the stupidity of mankind. [vimeo 167031692 w=474] A wacky Bird played by Josh Zagoren rants about popular culture in Chicago’s Green Mill Lounge. (Brendan Hickey/MEDILL)

Chicagoans canvas for Hillary

By Brendan Hickey DAVENPORT, Iowa — Chicago area Hillary Clinton supporters are not eligible to caucus in Iowa  on Monday, but that didn’t stop them from making the trip across the Mississippi River to knock on doors and urge Iowans to back the former secretary of state.

Choir finds harmony, hope, healing from addiction

By Brendan Hickey The members of the Harmony, Hope, & Healing choir all have something in common: They struggle with drug addiction and homelessness, they are enrolled or have completed a 12-step recovery program, and they all know Tina Villapando. Kevin Tamila abused drugs for much of his life. After joining Harmony, Hope & Healing […]

Chicagoland nonprofit saves dogs, helps veterans

Pits for Patriots

By Brendan Hickey Jonathan Cooper returned to his home in Chicago after two military tours in the Middle East alive but injured. His back was broken and his mobility severely limited. With the help of a cane he was able to walk but fell constantly, injuring himself further. His disability ruled his life until he […]