David, a 6th grade participant from Edison Middle School, interviewed Ms. Sonya Pickens, former owner of Aunt Bea’s Soulfood Restaurant and Pickins Chicken, at her home on April 12, 2010.  Jaylen, also from Edison Middle School, ran the camera.

Ms. Pickens was born and raised in Champaign.  She has enjoyed cooking and baking since she was a girl. At her soul food restaurant, she prepared greens, beans, peas, corn bread, macaroni and cheese, sweet potato pie and fried and baked chicken.  She had a loyal following of kids and seniors and would often deliver meals to shut-ins.  She said owning a business requires having good credit, being able to communicate with customers, and doing research before you start your business.