E03: Hospitality “Re” Hires Chicago- Part 1

Over 15 months have passed since the start of the global pandemic, and although vaccinations are on the rise, the impact on the economy continues. In Cook County alone more than 1.5 million people filed for unemployment benefits- roughly half the population of Chicago. According to the Illinois Hotel and Lodging Association, more than 50 Chicago hotels closed during the pandemic, putting more than 20,00 people out of work. Tune in for a 2-part conversation with host Karin Norington-Reaves, CEO of the Chicago Cook Workforce Partnership, about what the re-opening of the U.S. economy means for the hospitality industry and the millions of people it used to employ. Karin is joined by Kimberly Bares, CEO of the Magnificent Mile Association, Michael Jacobson, President and CEO of the Illinois Hotel and Lodging Association, and Sam Toia, President and CEO of the Illinois Restaurant Association.