Francine Knowles
Francine Knowles is a freelance writer for the Daily Southtown.
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Column: Senior advisers share tips for Medicare open enrollment
AgeOptions, the Area Agency on Aging for suburban Cook County, and Pathlights offer help navigating Medicare open enrollment

Companies have found employees can be just as productive when working remotely. And they’re happier too.
Employers are perfecting their flexible work arrangements. They’re making in-person time strategic and ensuring new employees don’t feel isolated.

Top Workplaces 2025: How Sargent & Lundy cultivates a collaborative and people-centered culture
Sargent & Lundy is ranked No. 7 among large employers on the Chicago Tribune’s list of Top Workplaces.

Top Workplaces 2025: Lactalis USA, maker of Kraft Natural Cheese, offers opportunities for advancement
Lactalis USA is ranked No. 8 among midsize employers on the Chicago Tribune’s list of Top Workplaces.

Column: Seasonal jobs already being filled, and fewer hires expected
The seasonal ramp up that used to begin in November now takes place in September and October, said Indeed economist Cory Stahle.

Column: Worries amp up as ACA enrollment nears amid political standoff over tax credits
Affordable Care Act health insurance plan open enrollment nears as uncertainty abounds about government healthcare subsidies.

Column: Business is poppin’ for Lansing artist who brings paint parties to the people
Danielle Leveston's Paintin & Poppin Traveling Paint Parties offers art fun at her Chicago Heights studio or in client homes.

Column: Career counselors share how AI may replace jobs and provide opportunities
Is your job or career choice artificial intelligence proof, and do you have the skills needed to be competitive in an emerging AI world? Those are among questions students, job...

Column: For job seekers, AI can be a helpful tool and a barrier, south suburban career counselors say
Artificial intelligence brings competition for jobs and possibly exhibits racial bias, say south suburban career counselors.

Column: South suburban food pantries expect influx of need after Trump’s SNAP cuts
Operators of several south suburban food pantries have been serving more clients, and they expect the number go grow after cuts to SNAP.
