Chatham_Southeast Citizen 11-2-2022

TECHNOLOGY CONSULTING FIRM GIVES BACK TO THE COMMUNITY

Wheeler Coleman was encouraged to study computer science while he was in high school. He fell in love with it and became an expert in it. He worked for 29 years for Blue Cross and Blue Shield, working his way up through the company to become the Chief Technology Officer. Six years ago, Coleman established Executive Consultants United, where he is the CEO and Executive Partner.

Wheeler Coleman is the CEO and Executive Partner at Executive Consultants United.

PHOTO PROVIDED BY WHEELER COLEMAN.

REP. COLLINS HIGHLIGHTS FEDERAL STUDENT DEBT RELIEF

CHICAGO — State Rep. Lakesia Collins, D-Chicago, is encouraging those with federal student loan debt to apply for one-time federal student loan debt relief.

“Student loan debt significantly impacts a person’s ability to pay for rent, food or utilities, let alone build enough wealth to support their families or weather emergencies. Student debt also feeds into the racial wealth divide, with black borrowers carrying more debt than their white counterparts,” Collins said. “The federal student loan debt relief plan is a fantastic start at remedying these issues. Debt relief will allow borrowers to more fully participate in the economy and build credit, leading to more opportunity overall. I highly encourage everyone who qualifies to apply for federal student loan forgiveness.”

Under the federal student loan debt relief plan, the U.S. Department of Education will provide up to $20,000 in debt relief to Federal Pell Grant recipients and up to $10,000 in debt relief to non-Pell Grant recipients. Borrowers are eligible for this relief if their individual income is less than $125,000 or $250,000 for households. To apply for student loan debt relief, please visit https://studentaid.gov/debt-relief-announcement/ one-time-cancellation. Applications are due Dec. 31, 2023.

COMED COMMUNITY SOLAR PROJECTS DELIVERING MONTHLY SAVINGS TO INCOME-ELIGIBLE CUSTOMERS

CHICAGO – ComEd announced that subscribers to three community solar projects designed for income-eligible customers are now receiving credits that will provide approximately $1,000 a year in savings on their electricity bills for up to three years.

The projects – one in Rockford, Ill., and two in Kankakee, Ill. – were developed in con junction with ComEd’s Give-A-Ray program, a new offering enabled by Illinois Solar for All, a state initiative to make solar energy more afford able for income-eligible households. Community solar allows customers to participate in the benefits of clean solar energy without installing panels on their own homes. Participants sub scribe to a solar energy project and earn credits on their monthly utility bills for their portion of the energy produced by the solar project.

Give-A-Ray is the first program of its kind in Illinois. The three projects serve a total of more than 560 customers, and ComEd pays their monthly subscription fees. Subscribers to the Rockford project started receiving monthly bill credits averaging $83 in August, and Kankakee participants began receiving credits in October. Give-A-Ray projects are open to income-eligible residents with an active ComEd account who live in the communities ComEd serves. While the three projects are currently fully subscribed, customers can learn more about the program requirements and register their interest for future openings at: www.ComEd.com/GiveARay.

By the end of this year, ComEd expects to have more than 80 community solar projects in terconnected to its grid and serving approximate ly 30,000 residential customers. The company estimates that it will increase solar generation on the ComEd system from a current level of almost 500 MW to 2,700 MWs by 2030, including roof top and community solar systems. The number of residential and business customers who have installed solar systems has grown from 700 at the end of 2016 to almost 30,000 at the end of June 2022.

Technology Consulting Firm gives back to the community

Continued from page 1

BY TIA CAROL JONES

Coleman believes in technology and is a purist when it comes to the field. Coleman founded Executive Consultants United because he wanted to give back to organization, large and small, to help them grow and mature their technology capabilities.

“What’s missing today is that organizations and businesses, are having trouble finding capable tech nology help, to help them mature and transform their operation, and to help them grow,” Coleman said.

Executive Consultants United works with Fortune 100 companies and local community organizations, providing them with technology, helping them with cybersecurity, telling them the best practices when it comes to technology. Coleman describes it as helping companies manage the “triangle” – people, process and technology.

On the people side, Executive Consultants United helps companies and organizations recruit and retain subject matter experts in technology. On the process side, EC-United helps organizations create cybersecuri ty policies, which have to be implemented and followed so companies and organizations can minimize the liability associated with having a cybersecurity breach. On the technology side, it helps companies and organi zations put together a technology blueprint that meets their standards and can scale with them as their compa ny grows.

“It’s not easy being a growing a company. It’s not easy being an entrepreneur, especially and African American entrepreneur. Every single day we have to prove ourselves. Every single day, we’ve got to let people know this is our capability, this is what we can do for you, this is our value we can bring your organi

zation,” Coleman said.

Coleman credits the growth of the EC-United to large firms discovering the company because those firms liked EC-United’s work and the quality of work it brought to the table. Some of those firms include an energy company in the South, a large media company in Chicago. EC-United was also responsible for creat ing the sign-up and schedule system for COVID-19 for Cook County Hospital. More than 1.6 million people have used the system.

Coleman is committed to community improvement and education. He has a true passion around giving back. He received a four-year scholarship to go to a private high school of his choice, so from day one, he has believed in giving back. Coleman and his family have multiple scholarships they give for people to go to college.

“We’re trying to support organizations that are in the community, that are serving the community. That’s a core principle of ours, so we give a significant amount of money to do that,” Coleman said.

EC-United also advises individuals with respect to technology, what they should be doing and key deci sions that need to be made, at certain times, that advice is free of charge.

Coleman is from the community, and he under stands the value that people have to provide to the com munity. That includes being seen, being role models and writing checks to support and uplift the community.

Forward thinking organizations realize the val ue EC-United brings to their company. One of those companies is Discover Financial Services. Another is Blue Cross Blue Shield. “We’re proud of the investment they’ve made in the community,” Coleman said.

For more information about Executive Consultants United, visit ec-united.com.

MAYOR LIGHTFOOT ANNOUNCES CHICAGO RIVERWALK CONCESSION PROGRAM OPPORTUNITIES

CHICAGO – Mayor Lori E. Lightfoot and the City of Chicago today issued a Request for Proposals (RFP) for concession operations for the Chicago Riverwalk. The goal of this RFP is to receive proposals from qualified teams who can operate food and beverage, retail, recreational, enter tainment, cultural, and educational facilities along Chicago’s beautiful Riverwalk.

“The Riverwalk is both an economic engine for our city and a cherished gathering and recreational space for residents and visitors alike,” said Mayor Lightfoot. “I am thrilled to welcome new vendors who will activate available space for next season and further enhance our Riverwalk. The vendors in our concessions program have made a strong recovery from the pandemic, and I am confident they will continue to do so.”

Examples of possible concessions that would enhance the Riverwalk include but are not limited to sporting and recreational boating amenities, food and beverage, retail, entertainment venues showcasing local talent, or any other type of family-friendly concessions.

To access the RFP, please visit cityofchicago.org/bids.

The RFP seeks proposals from vendors to operate at several locations on the Chicago Riverwalk between Michigan Ave nue and Lake Street, specifically:

45 East Riverwalk South (East Wabash)

35 East Riverwalk South (West Wabash)

11-27 West Riverwalk South (boat docking onlyState to Dearborn)

105 East Riverwalk South (boat docking- Clark to LaSalle)

151-155 West Riverwalk South (boat docking onlyLaSalle to Wells)

“The Riverwalk was a bustling hub of activity this year, offering a variety of venues and spaces for resi dents and visitors to eat, drink, play, and walk through the urban canyon of world-famous architecture,” said Acting Commissioner Blakemore. “Revenues from this season are exceeding the looking to meet or beat the $23 million of 2021, which was the highest amount of total revenues for the Chicago Riverwalk Concession Pro gram to date.”

Proposals are due on Dec. 2.

Candidate apathy is worse than voter apathy A Black Press Opinion

Over the last few years everyday people, along with the news media, have worn bare the phrase “voter apathy.” It has remained part of the English lexicon because it is a handy way to describe low voter turnout, as well as pundits being wrong with their predictions about certain races of candidates.

The phrase was fueled by the reality that we could look at the pathetically low voter participation in certain parts of the city.

Political forecasters offered a bevy of reasons for folks staying home; however, they repeatedly failed to bring up one we know is true. Let’s call it candidate apathy.

One need not be a political science graduate to understand the basic premise of the process, candidates promise a certain improvement, or introduction to a particular program to a community in exchange for their vote. It is a tit-for-tat as old as elections. We have been led to believe that voter apathy is at the root of our government problems; after all, the people we do vote for wind up in office running the government

The harsh reality is that candidate apathy is far worse than indifference by voters.

Far too many candidates, representing both sides of the aisle, refuse to give so many in our community anything other

than short shrift. Oh sure, they all make their rounds to Black churches on Sundays leading up to the election. If you are Black, ask yourself how many other times do you see them hanging out in our parts of town.

Ask yourself that when there are at least 500,000 Black people on the South Side, why do candidates only go to two or three churches, and believe they are reaching those tens of thousands of voters. It has morphed into some kind of show, es pecially on the local level, with a candidate rushing from church to church on a Sunday.

The premise about reaching most voters at church is a myth. Even cursory research will tell you that there are far more folks at home at 11 a.m. Sundays than are in church.

How often do we see candidates for public office at a local school council meeting, or a high school basketball game?

One of the most egregious facts is they spend tens of thousands of dollars on television commercials that put people to sleep, but they refuse to infuse significant dollars in the Black media outlets. The advertising buys they place with us can only be described as pathetic. In most instances those ads are crafted by no one who is rooted in or deeply familiar with our commu nity.

We have credibility with our readers because we know how to speak to them. Too many times when state candidates or those running for Congress do advertise with us, they are using the same wording that they would for an ad running in Kenilworth.

We don’t bend over backward, like one daily newspaper, to focus on crime and the negative aspects of our community. We also have a loyal readership. To date, no one has ever explained to me why white media outlets should have campaign ads, and Black outlets shouldn’t. If that isn’t the case, the folks running for office sure make it seem that way.

It is not unusual for our audience to reach out to us seeking our opinions on particular candidates and incumbents. When the candidates, as well as incumbents, refuse to meet with our edi torial boards or participate in one-on-one interviews, it makes it tough to give an informed perspective.

Conversely, they have no problem having one of their minions call our respective outlets asking for an endorsement. It is the height of hypocrisy. You won’t give us your money by ad vertising but you want the credibility and cache that comes with our name via an endorsement. I don’t know how candidates and incumbents can be any more apathetic.

Innovative program leads Chicagoans into full-time jobs and good-paying careers in the energy industry

CHICAGO — Peoples Gas is cele brating a new kind of training program that is putting Chicagoans into full-time jobs and good-paying careers.

Peoples Gas held a ceremony this week for 22 people completing its Project Worker to Utility Worker program. The intensive 12-week program is a partnership between Peoples Gas and the Gas Workers

Union, Local 18007. The program helps part-time seasonal workers learn new skills and earn promotions into full-time jobs.

Retired members of Local 18007 teach the training classes. Follow ing decades of their own service to Peoples Gas and Chicago, the retired employees are preparing a new genera tion of workers to meet the demands of a tough job that is vital to our city’s safety, and to our economy.

“This program gives our seasonal members an opportunity at earning a full-time career,” said Gas Workers Union Local 18007 Business Man ager, Adrian Duenas. “Our members have dedicated themselves to this program and this achievement. It was a true partnership with the Union and Peoples Gas, and it really shows every thing we can accomplish when we work together towards a common goal.”

Peoples Gas president Torrence Hinton added, “This training program is ensuring we have the skilled work ers needed to provide safe and reliable service to our customers during Chica go’s freezing winters and year round.

It also is launching life-long careers. Peo ple are entering full-time, good-paying jobs that have stability and opportunities for a lot of growth.”

Training through the Project Worker to Utility Worker program includes both

classroom instruction and hands-on prac tice. Workers’ primary focus when they officially start their new full-time jobs will be to turn on new customers’ heat, so all homes and businesses can be ready for winter.

THE GREAT RESTORATION:

The Knowledge House Launches its 2022-23 Fellowship Campaign to Increase Tech Workforce Nationwide

BRONX, N.Y., PRNewswire -- The Knowledge House (TKH) will continue its eight-year journey with its 2022-23 Fellowship Campaign. This year’s theme is the “Great Restoration” to answer the call to corporations in need of Black and Brown technolo gists through its successful nationwide programming at its satellite locations in New York City, Newark, Atlanta, and Los Angeles.

The Fellowship Campaign allows TKH to mobilize resources, volunteers, mentors, and funders to provide support to the incoming class of 2022-23 fellows. Last year TKH raised $1.2 million, with over half raised with support from our corporate partners at JP Morgan Chase, Citi, and Gold man Sachs. Notable headliners included Asahi Pompey, Global Head of Corporate Engagement and Pres ident of the Goldman Sachs Foundation, and Maurice Jones, Chief Executive Officer at OneTen. Accenture is hosting a reception to help TKH reach its fundraising goal of $2.5 million to support up to 250 future technologists - TKH is currently just half a million away from reaching its goal this year.

Despite the growth of America’s tech sector, less than 10% of tech positions are held by people of color - a distribution that does not reflect our nation. While the vast majority of DEI-conscious corporate sector leaders have exhausted all traditional avenues to hire more individuals from historically underesti mated communities - it has proven extremely difficu

The Knowledge House provides direct access for corporations to find suitable candidates – a diverse pool of historically underrepresented talent with experience ranging from college stop-out, trade schools, career pivoters, CUNY grads, and more, to entry-level talent who have received holistic training and support, including cash stipends, career develop

ment, technical upskilling, and on-the-job training.

“Candidates are attracted to our program because we provide (1) an inclusive, high-quality, and part-time program that allows Fellows to still work during the day while pursuing their new path, and (2) a stipend to help students make ends meet, instead of charging $20,000 for a traditional coding boot camp. We partner with community-based orga nizations in our site cities to identify underestimated talent looking to transition into the tech industry. Throughout the Fellowship, we provide indus try-relevant career navigation instruction to prepare Fellows to position themselves for strong first tech jobs,” says Daniel Adeyanju, Director of Programs at The Knowledge House.

The Fellow ship Campaign will kick off with The Knowledge House’s Corporate Partners Reception presented by Accenture in New York City on November 15th.

Join The Knowledge House and corporate partners for an innovative reception at Accenture as leaders convene for a solutions-focused panel on finding, retaining, and advancing diverse talent and a fireside chat on the future of technology in NYC!

Opening Remarks by Priscila de Pinho (Accenture) and Jerelyn Rodriguez (The Knowledge House). Main Panel moderated by Selena Hill (On-Air Talent/Black Enterprise); with Marcus Felder (Blackstone), Gary Johnson (Cashapp), and Neela Pal (Goldman Sachs), plus Fireside Chat moderat ed by Rah Thomas (Accenture) and Abby Jo Sigal (Executive Director, Mayor’s Office of Talent and Workforce Development).

For tickets and more information: https://www. classy.org/event/the-knowledge-house’s-corpo rate-partners-reception/e420403. To learn more, visit theknowledgehouse.org.

FINTECH FUTURE: FINANCIAL INNOVATION FOR EQUITY AND OPPORTUNITY OFFICIALLY LAUNCHES

WASHINGTON, PRNewswire -- To advocate for policies that support innovation, equity, and opportunity for all, leading community empowerment advocates and financial services innovators announced the official launch of Fintech Future: Financial Innovation for Equity and Opportunity (“Fintech Future”). Fintech Future supports responsible innovation that breaks down traditional barri ers to wealth creation and bridges the access gap to modern financial services in historically excluded communities. Responsible fintech innovation democratizes finance to create equity and give millions of Americans access to the resources they need to realize their dreams.

Through advocacy, public policy and coalition build ing, Fintech Future will work with community leaders and organizations, government partners, and regulators to support equal access to modern financial services while supporting responsible policies and efforts that ensure the highest levels of compliance, accountability, and consumer protection.

“For far too long the pathways to wealth creation have been closed off to non-white and underserved communi ties. Innovation across the financial services sector has broken down those barriers, offering new opportunities for families and small businesses who were long left out and behind. It is vital that our community of responsible inno vators come together and speak out in support of policies that preserve and protect opportunity for all,” said Tom Soto, a founding member of Fintech Future and Founder/ Managing Partner at Latimer Partners, LLC.

“The rapid innovation in financial services has led to a generational shift in how non-white and low-income communities can access the resources they need to achieve their dreams. Responsible fintechs also stepped-up during times of crises to reach those who needed the help the most and are far too often left behind. Responsible fintechs launched safe and efficient application portals that were available to any eligible small business in need, regardless of whether or not they had a pre- existing relationship with a bank. Two years later, 1 in 4 Black-owned companies applied with fintech lenders to receive the support they needed to get through the crisis. What that tells us is fin tech opened the gates to all, challenged the status quo and overcame the traditional biases and barriers to financial services normally reserved for the few. Fintech Future will advocate for responsible policies that embrace this innova tion and guide its growth so it can deliver for our commu nities across the country,” said Natalie Madeira Cofield, founding member of Fintech Future and Former Assistant Administrator of the U.S. Small Business Administration.

As recently as 2008, when the system failed with the great recession, it was primarily marginalized, middle-class and low-income families, businesses and communities who bore the brunt with foreclosures and layoffs. Coming out of the great recession then and more recently the global pan demic, financial and tech innovators saw an opportunity to disrupt a broken system and build a 21st century financial infrastructure with the mission of democratization, inclu sion and breaking down the barriers that had traditionally ostracized many disenfranchised borrowers.

To learn more, visit www.fintechfuturecoaltion.org or follow us at @fintech_future.

Jerelyn Rodriguez, Co-Founder (center) along with Newark, NJ partners. PRNewsFoto.

PRNewsFoto.

ATTORNEY GENERAL RAOUL CONVENES ROUNDTABLE

DISCUSSION WITH REPRODUCTIVE RIGHTS ORGANIZATIONS AND PRIVATE LAWFIRMS ON DEFENDING ACCESS TO REPRODUCTIVE HEALTH SERVICES

Chicago – Attorney General Kwame Raoul convened a roundtable meeting with representatives of leading abortion access organizations and repre sentatives from top law firms in Illinois to discuss ways to address an anticipated rising need for pro bono legal representation of abortion providers, patients and support groups.

“As states around the country, particularly those surrounding Illinois, ban or severely restrict abortion, we are concerned about other states’ laws instilling fear, curbing access to abortion, and punishing pa tients and providers in Illinois. The legal community must unite to meet these challenges,” Raoul said. “As the legal landscape around abortion changes rapidly, no one should fear legal ramifications for seeking or providing essential health care services in Illinois. I appreciate everyone who participated in this discussion to kick off what I hope will be an on going collaborative effort to protect abortion patients and providers in Illinois.”

During the meeting, reproductive rights orga nizations described the legal issues they have faced following the Supreme Court’s decision to overturn Roe v. Wade and how private law firms could help fulfill needs for pro bono legal representation. These organizations said they anticipate a continued fight against legal issues amid the evolving legal landscape.

Representatives from Illinois law firms pro vided information about their pro bono programs and explained how their firms’ representation have supported reproductive rights.

The U.S. Supreme Court’s decision overturning Roe v. Wade in June has led to at least 13 states ban ning or severely restricting access to abortion, while additional states like Indiana have bans that could go

into effect if challengers lose in court.

While Illinois law protects access to reproduc tive health care as a fundamental right and federal law ensures the constitutional right to interstate travel, states like Texas have passed laws seeking to impede residents’ ability to travel to states like Illinois to obtain an abortion. Providers who perform reproductive health care services in Illinois on out-of-state patients are concerned they could face ruinous civil and criminal liability in other states, whose laws are changing rapidly.

In addition to the financial and logistical hur dles of traveling long distances for abortion care, outof-state patients also fear legal repercussions when they return home to a state that has banned abortion.

Raoul gave an overview of his office’s work to protect abortion access in Illinois and to advocate for access beyond the state’s borders, including by:

Issuing a Know your Rights Guide informing the public that they have a protected right to an abortion in Illinois.

Sending a letter to Illinois law enforcement instructing that abortion is not a crime in Illinois.

Publishing a consumer alert with tips on how individuals can protect their sensitive personal infor mation and digital footprints while using apps and online platforms.

Regularly filing amicus briefs in court in sup port of reproductive rights.

Convening state attorneys general and repre sentatives from the U.S. Department of Justice to learn about enforcement of the federal FACE Act and promoting communication between federal and state law enforcement to protect the safety of those providing and accessing reproductive health services.

Chicago a cappella, Chicago’s acclaimed vocal ensemble, begins its 30th season this December with two new holiday concert pro grams, “Holidays a cappella” and “Hanukkah a cappella.”

“Holidays a cappella” is an annual tradition for Chicago a cappella, and every year the ensemble presents a fresh program of creatively arranged and beautifully performed holiday compositions, including sacred music, holiday classics and lesser-known songs that are exhilarating and memorable.

After singing as an ensemble member with Chicago a cappella for 11 seasons, Benjamin Rivera returns for his third series concert as guest music director for “Holidays a cappella.” This year’s program showcases the ensemble’s beautifully blended voices and mesmerizing harmonies.

“I loved putting together this program, because Chicago a cappella can tackle so many styles and languages,” said Music Director Benjamin Rivera. “I found really captivating works from Germany, France, Puerto Rico, and the U.S., along with a good sampling of songs for Hanukkah and some familiar favorites as well.”

Performances of “Holidays a cappel la” will be held on the following dates and locations:

Sunday, Dec. 4, 2022, at 4 p.m.| Pilgrim Congregational Church, 460 Lake St., Oak Park

Friday, Dec. 9, 2022, at 8 p.m. | Fourth Presbyterian Church, 115 E. Delaware Pl., Chicago

Saturday, Dec. 17, 2022, at 8 p.m.| Wentz Concert Hall, 171 E. Chicago Ave., Naperville Sunday, Dec. 18, 2022, at 4 p.m. |

Nichols Concert Hall, 1490 Chicago Ave., Evanston

“This year we are also presenting a program that really is a unique new offering for Chicago’s holiday season: “Hanukkah a cappella,” said Matt Greenberg, Executive Di rector. “We are delving into the rich heritage of Jewish music for Hanukkah, both tradition al and modern, with its humor, expressiveness and eloquence.”

With musical direction by Artistic Di rector John William Trotter, the program will feature stellar works by eight living Jewish composers—from heartfelt prayers to jazzy and playful holiday tunes— showcasing the creativity and vitality of American Jewish music and revealing the multi-layered joy, richness and meaning of this festival.

Artistic Director John William Trotter notes, “It’s a joy to collect so much of the great Hanukkah repertoire the ensemble has performed in years past and present it all together in one concert, along with some great new finds.”

Performances of “Hanukkah a cappel la” will be held on the following dates and locations:

Saturday, Dec. 10, 2022, at 8 p.m.| Congregation Rodfei Zedek, 5200 S. Hyde Park, Chicago

Sunday, Dec. 11, 2022, at 4 p.m. | Con gregation Sukkat Shalom, 1001 Central Ave., Wilmette

Memberships and tickets can be purchased online at www.chicagoacappella. org/tickets. For more information, please visit www.chicagoacappella.org or call (773) 281-7820.

Virtual Options

Chicago a cappella presents two stunning holiday concert programs this December: “Holidays a cappella” and “Hanukkah a cappella”

Phhotos by L.M. Warbington Photography

Maverick Entertainment Presents, “Boxed In”

DEERFIELD BEACH, Fla., PRNewswire -- Maverick En tertainment is proud to present, “Boxed In,” a film directed by Ariel Julia Harston and starring Reginae Carter (Lil Wayne’s daughter). The premiere will be held outside of Atlanta on Nov. 3rd, attended by Reginae Carter and the rest of the cast. The movie will be available for streaming on all streaming platforms on Dec. 1st.

View the official trailer here: https://youtu.be/Qj8d FLYs_2A

The film, produced by J. Carter and LaShon Carter, follows a young woman (Reginae Carter) whose determi nation to find and be her authentic self catapults her into a boxing career that her family does not approve of. The Maverick Original film also stars Clifton Powell, and Lil Zane, among up-and-comers Sean Freeman and Ernestine Johnson.

“This role will be Reginae Carter’s breakout role and will have people seeing her in a brand new light,” said J. Carter.

Director Ariel Julia Harston said, “On the surface, ‘Boxed In’ seems to be about boxing and fighting for the right to express a side of you that people say is wrong. And it is about that, but at its core, it’s about family. There’s a heartwarming element to it that we hope audi ences really enjoy. Because at the end of the day, you may not relate to boxing, but you can relate to how important it is to remain close to the people you love.”

Founded in 1997, Maverick Entertainment continues to be the premier distributor of niche and Urban content. Having released more than 1,000 films over the past 25 years, Maverick currently controls the world’s largest library of feature-length Black Cinema.

In addition to funding and producing originals, Maver ick releases 100+ movies a year and distributes physical ly and digitally worldwide to a growing list of platform partners.

For more information, visit https://www.mavericken tertainment.cc/.

“COLLEGE HILL: CELEBRITY EDITION” WILL RETURN FOR A SECOND SEASON

NEW YORK, PRNewswire -- BET+, the lead ing streamer for Black audiences, announced today that “COLLEGE HILL: CELEBRITY EDITION” will be back on the yard for a second season. A fresh, new class of celebrities will live together and join the Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCU) Alabama State University as students. Ray J, returning from the first season, will be joined by Amber Rose, Joseline Hernandez, Tif fany “New York” Pollard, Parker McKenna Posey, Iman Shumpert, Kwaylon “BlameItOnKway” Rogers, and O’Ryan Browner as they enroll to pursue higher education while experienc ing the joys and challenges of life on campus. Similar to season one, the new cast will be stepping out of the limelight and into the class room, to complete a rigor ous, tailor-made academic certificate program to cross the graduation stage.

“We’re thrilled to partner with Edmonds Enter tainment and This Way Out Media for the second sea son return of the hit reality series ‘COLLEGE HILL: CELEBRITY EDITION,’” said Tiffany Lea Williams, Executive Vice President of BET Unscripted Program ming. “We couldn’t be prouder to film on the campus of HBCU, Alabama State University (ASU), which is steeped in a rich legacy of producing academic ex cellence within the Black community. We have a new class of celebrities ready to hit the books and embrace campus life. This season we are in Montgomery, AL which provides us the unique opportunity to highlight our history and call attention to the importance and power of the community’s role in civic engagement

across the country.”

“As the creator of the original franchise, I was so moved by the way both legacy fans and new fans embraced the first season of our ‘COLLEGE HILL: CELEBRITY EDITION’ reboot,” said Tracey Edmonds, CEO, and President of Edmonds Entertain ment. “Edmonds Entertainment is looking forward to partnering again with This Way Out Media for our second season which will showcase the incredi ble heritage and plethora of assets that Alabama State University has to offer. We are honored to be collaborating with ASU and are excited to share more entertaining stories about the richness of the HBCU culture and experience with audiences again this upcom ing season.”

“We are extremely excited to welcome ‘COLLEGE HILL: CELEBRITY EDITION’ to the campus of Alabama State Univer sity,” said Dr. Quinton T. Ross, Jr., President of Alabama State University. “I want to thank Tracey Edmonds, Sean Rankine, Mark Seliga, and BET+ for selecting ASU as the location for the popular reality show that gives a global stage to the academic excellence, rich history and unique culture of the nation’s HBCUs.”

“COLLEGE HILL: CELEBRITY EDITION” is executive produced by Tracey Edmonds for Edmonds Entertainment, Sean Rankine and Mark Seliga for This Way Out Media, and Tiffany Lea Williams, Mimi Blanchard, and Raye Dowell for BET+. The second season will debut in 2023.

Previous seasons of the original “COLLEGE HILL” and “COLLEGE HILL: CELEBRITY EDI TION” are available to stream now on BET+.

NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC CONTENT EXPANDS ITS HISTORICALLY BLACK COLLEGES AND UNIVERSITIES (HBCUS) MEDIA SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAM

National Geographic Content announces the expansion of its National Geographic Media Scholarship program to include six Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) that will receive $10,000 scholar ships for each school.

Currently in its second year, National Geographic will provide a $10,000 scholarship to a qualified student who is interested in an opportunity to explore careers in factual storytelling and filmmaking, and attend one of the following HBCUs: Texas Southern University, Grambling State University, Spelman College, Howard University, Alcorn State University and Virginia State University.

“Our commitment to providing scholarships to students who attend HBCUs exemplifies part of our mission to help diverse talent who want to work in the factual entertainment industry, and we are thrilled to be able to offer opportunities to HBCU students who could very well be our future explorers and documentary film makers,” said Karen Greenfield, senior vice president, Inclusive Content, Diversity and Inclusion, National Geographic Content.

In addition to the financial award, each recipient will have the opportunity to participate in the National

Geographic Media Scholars Immersive Experience Pro gram (NGIEP), a unique two-week immersion program at the National Geographic headquarters in Washington, DC, and receive an executive mentor for at least six months. The immersion program’s goal is for partici pants to gain valuable experience learning from experts at a strong global brand and an organization with a rich history of scientific discovery, exploration and dynam ic storytelling through the immersion program. They will learn about the various lines of businesses, from traditional media to experiences that bring the National Geographic brand to consumers worldwide.

Added Greenfield: “At National Geographic we are dedicated to being inclusive and telling inclusive stories that appeal to multicultural and multigenerational audiences. We understand that it requires an industry with diverse storytellers. We hope that the scholarship and mentor experience will help us strengthen our talent pool at National Geographic and within The Walt Disney Company. We want to be a destination for diverse storytellers.”

Students who are interested in creating gripping factual stories are encouraged to apply by November 21, 2022.

Reginae Carter stars as Ria in “Boxed In.” PRNEWSFOTO.

ENDORSEMENTS

Elections are the process of one becoming powerful. Holding office can be filled with disappointments, failed policies, exclusion, or outright discrimination. In 1789 the United States held its first election. History would show that not all citizens were granted the right to participate in the process at that time. For decades to follow what had become a po litical process became plagued by loopholes, demonstrations, bloodshed, and loss of lives. In 1965 the landmark Voters Right Act granted us inclusion in the process. The Voters Rights Act would become the 15th amendment to the United States Constitution.

After decades of fairness this should be a process in which everyone is eager to partici pate in. Going to the polls to vote is a way to for us to show respect for the process and the Freedom Fighters of yesterday. Election day

is a day to pay homage to those who fought and experienced life altering encounters to see this process as a reality. We are encour aging you to be present in this moment of our history. We challenge your participation in the election process, and we want you to keep in mind what’s at stake, by understanding the assignment given by our trail blazer. Get out and VOTE on Tuesday, November 8, 2022. We encourage you to vote for your choice, don’t listen to hear say. Evaluate the track records of the individual candi dates. At the end of this election process, we can only blame ourselves for those we put in office, we need to elect candidates that are transparent and those that we will hold accountable. With that in mind we have de cided to endorse the following candidates for their prospective offices.

w Election Day in Illinois for the 2022 General Election is Tuesday, Nov. 8th.

w Early voting began on Monday, Oct. 24th.

w The last day to request a mail-in ballot is Thursday, Nov. 3rd.

w The last day mail-in ballots can be postmarked is Nov. 8th.

w The last day for Early Voting is Monday, Nov. 7th.

Here’s who we’re endorsing:

U.S. Senator – Tammy Duckworth

Duckworth has been a U.S. Senator since 2017. Duck worth passed the Troop Talent Act to help returning Veterans find jobs in the private sector. She co-founded the Senate’s first-ever Environmental Justice Caucus and continues her lifelong mission of supporting, protecting, and keeping the promises made to our Veterans as well as ensuring that America stands fully behind the troops that are sent into danger overseas.

She recently joined Senator Majority Whip Dick Durbin to announce a $1.4 million grant for Nursing Education Programs in Illinois. The funds will go to Southern Illinois University in Edwardsville and Loyola University here in Chicago. Duckworth worked to secure $12.5 Million for the Department Of Justice. She recently joined forces with other colleagues in Washington to fight for Protec tion of Postal Workers. Prior to that, she was a Congress woman for the 8th Congressional District.

Attorney General, State of Illinois –

Kwame Raoul

Raoul has been the Attorney General since 2019. Prior to that, he was an Illinois State Senator, representing the 13th District. Kwame created the state’s first Organized Retail Crime Task Force with law enforcement partners to investigate smash-and-grab crimes. He has worked to fight the prevalence of gun violence. Kwame works in partnership with the U.S. Secret Service’s National Threat Assessment Center to conduct trainings to prevent mass shooting threats in schools, places of worship, and other public places.

Kwame sued to revoke the license of a rogue gun man ufacturer that produced cheap guns that criminals use in carjackings and other crimes. Access to health care is particularly important for Kwame as Attorney General and for his own personal health journey. In light of the recent ly turnover of Roe v Wade, Kwame is fighting to protect a woman’s right to make her own health care decisions. We believe that protection and rights of Illinoisians deserves someone who will not sit idle. Kwame’s track record indi cates his willingness to put in the work and with that said we support and endorse Kwame for retention as the State of Illinois Attorney General.

Secretary of State, State of Illinois –Alexi Giannoulias

Giannoulias served as Illinois the Treasurer from 2007 to 2011. Here’s what Giannoulias did during his initial term in office as Treasurer as an independent Democrat. He pursued a progressive, reform agenda that focused on innovative initiatives and policies designed to curb

ethical abuses, create jobs, safely invest taxpayer dollars, and improve the financial futures of all Illinoisans. In his first official act, Alexi ended pay-to-play politics in the Treasurer’s office by prohibiting his campaign fund from taking contributions from contractors, banks and office employees.

As a measure to prevent young adults from piling up debt, Alexi cracked down on credit card companies by authoring legislation to curb deceptive tactics marketers employed to prey on college students. Alexi understands the notion of keeping your finances in order and records straight without having to endure long lines and a bunch of red tape. Giannoulias seeks the opportunity to show us as voters that he can bring change to the Secretary of State office. We are endorsing change and improvement and we give our endorsement to him.

Comptroller, State of Illinois – Susana A. Mendoza

Comptroller, State of Illinois – Susana A. Mendoza Mendoza has been Illinois Comptroller since 2019. Prior to that she was Illinois State Representative for the 1st District.

Treasurer, State of Illinois –Michael W. Frerichs

Frerichs has been State Treasurer since 2015. Prior to that, he was an Illinois State Senator, representing 52nd District.

U.S. Representative, 2nd District – Robin Kelly Kelly has been representing the 2nd Congressional District since 2013. Prior to that, she was an Illinois State Repre sentative for the 38th District.

U.S. Representative, 7th District – Danny K. Davis Davis has been representing the 7th Congressional District since 1997. Prior to that, he was a Cook County Commis sioner. From 1979 to 1990, he was the 29th Ward Alder man.

Illinois State Senate Race

State Senator, 14th District – Emil Jones, III State Senator, 15th District – Napoleon B. Harris, III State Senator, 17th District – Elgie R. Sims, Jr.

Illinois State Representative Race

State Representative, 6th District – Sonya Marie Harper

State Representative, 8th District – LaShawn K. Ford

State Representative, 9th District – Lakesia Collins State Representative, 25th District – Curtis Tarver, II

State Representative, 27th District – Justin Q. Slaughter

State Representative, 28th District – Robert “Bob” Rita

State Representative, 29th District – Thaddeus Jones

State Representative, 30th District – William “Will” Davis

State Representative, 33rd District – Marcus C. Evans, Jr.

State Representative, 34th District – Nicholas “Nick” Smith

Metropolitan Water Reclamation District Commissioners

Mariyana T. Spyropoulos

Patricia Theresa Flynn

Yumeka Brown

Cook County Board President President of the County Board – Toni Preckwinkle

Cook County Clerk Cook County Clerk – Karen Yarbrough

Sheriff Cook County Sheriff – Thomas J. Dart

Treasurer Cook County Treasurer – Maria Pappas

County Assessor

Cook County Assessor – Fritz Kaegi

Cook County Commissioner Race

Cook County Commissioner, 4th District

– Stanley S. Moore

County Commissioner, 5th District – Monica M. Gordon

County Commissioner, 6th District – Donna Miller

Board of Review

Board of Review, 3rd District – Larry Rogers, Jr.

Judicial Race

Judge of the Appellate Court – Debra B. Walker

Judge of the Circuit Court – Lisa Michelle Taylor

Judge, 1st Subcircuit – Maria M. Barlow

Judicial Retention Appellate Court

Nathaniel Roosevelt Howse, Jr.

Jesse G. Reyes

Judicial Retention Circuit Court – Timothy C. Evans, Bonita Coleman

Freddrenna M. Lyle

For information on Early Voting, visit https://tinyurl. com/4kdk6yy4, or call 312-603-0900. To find your Polling Place to vote on Election Day, visit https://tinyurl.com/ mrz93x8e.

Here’s a few things you need to know going into Illinois election day 2022

CLASSIFIED

ver's license, passport, etc.) in order to gain entry into our building and the foreclosure sale room in Cook County and the same identification for sales held at other county venues where The Judicial Sales Corporation conducts foreclosure sales. For information, examine the court file, CODILIS & ASSOCIATES, P.C. Plaintiff's Attorneys, 15W030 NORTH FRONTAGE ROAD, SUITE 100, BURR RIDGE, IL, 60527 (630) 794-9876 THE JUDICIAL SALES CORPORATION One South Wacker Drive, 24th Floor, Chicago, IL 60606-4650 (312) 236SALE You can also visit The Judicial Sales Corporation at www.tjsc.com for a 7 day status report of pending sales. CODILIS & ASSOCIATES, P.C. 15W030 NORTH FRONTAGE ROAD, SUITE 100 BURR RIDGE IL, 60527 630-794-5300 EMail: pleadings@il.cslegal.com Attorney File No. 14-22-01474 Attorney ARDC No. 00468002 Attorney Code. 21762 Case Number: 2022 CH 01597 TJSC#: 42-3026

NOTE: Pursuant to the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act, you are advised that Plaintiff's attorney is deemed to be a debt col lector attempting to collect a debt and any infor mation obtained will be used for that purpose. Case # 2022 CH 01597 I3206199

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF COOK COUNTY, ILLINOIS COUNTY DEPARTMENT - CHANCERY DIVISION HOME BANK Plaintiff, -v.- GEORGE H. WHITING, DARNELLA WHITING Defendants 18 CH 03092 8149 S. COMMERCIAL AVENUE CHICAGO, IL 60617 NOTICE OF SALE PUBLIC

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered in the above cause on September 12, 2019, an agent for The Judicial Sales Corporation, will at 10:30 AM on December 1, 2022, at The Judicial Sales Corporation, One South Wacker, 1st Floor Suite 35R, Chicago, IL, 60606, sell at a public sale to the highest bidder, as set forth below, the following described real estate: Commonly known as 8149 S. COMMERCIAL AVENUE, CHICAGO, IL 60617 Property Index No. 21-31-221-047 The real estate is improved with a single family residence. The judgment amount was $130,721.57. Sale terms: 25% down of the highest bid by certified funds at the close of the sale payable to The Judicial Sales Corporation. No third party checks will be accepted. The balance, including the Judicial Sale fee for the Abandoned Residential Property Municipality Relief Fund, which is calcu lated on residential real estate at the rate of $1 for each $1,000 or fraction thereof of the amount paid by the purchaser not to exceed $300, in certified funds/or wire transfer, is due within twenty-four (24) hours. No fee shall be paid by the mortgagee acquiring the residential real estate pursuant to its credit bid at the sale or by any mortgagee, judg ment creditor, or other lienor acquiring the residen tial real estate whose rights in and to the residen tial real estate arose prior to the sale. The subject property is subject to general real estate taxes, special assessments, or special taxes levied against said real estate and is offered for sale with out any representation as to quality or quantity of title and without recourse to Plaintiff and in "AS IS" condition. The sale is further subject to confirma tion by the court. Upon payment in full of the amount bid, the purchaser will receive a Certificate of Sale that will entitle the purchaser to a deed to the real estate after confirmation of the sale. The property will NOT be open for inspection and plain tiff makes no representation as to the condition of

the property. Prospective bidders are admonished to check the court file to verify all information. If this property is a condominium unit, the purchaser of the unit at the foreclosure sale, other than a mort gagee, shall pay the assessments and the legal fees required by The Condominium Property Act, 765 ILCS 605/9(g)(1) and (g)(4). If this property is a condominium unit which is part of a common interest community, the purchaser of the unit at the foreclosure sale other than a mortgagee shall pay the assessments required by The Condominium Property Act, 765 ILCS 605/18.5(g-1).

IF YOU ARE THE MORTGAGOR (HOMEOWNER), YOU HAVE THE RIGHT TO REMAIN IN POSSESSION FOR 30 DAYS AFTER ENTRY OF AN ORDER OF POSSESSION, IN ACCORDANCE WITH SEC TION 15-1701(C) OF THE ILLINOIS MORTGAGE FORECLOSURE LAW. You will need a photo iden tification issued by a government agency (driver's license, passport, etc.) in order to gain entry into our building and the foreclosure sale room in Cook County and the same identification for sales held at other county venues where The Judicial Sales Corporation conducts foreclosure sales. For infor mation, contact Alexander Potestivo, POTESTIVO & ASSOCIATES, P.C. Plaintiff's Attorneys, 223 WEST JACKSON BLVD, STE 610, Chicago, IL, 60606 (312) 263-0003. Please refer to file number 110364. THE JUDICIAL SALES CORPORATION One South Wacker Drive, 24th Floor, Chicago, IL 60606-4650 (312) 236-SALE You can also visit The Judicial Sales Corporation at www.tjsc.com for a 7 day status report of pending sales. POTESTI VO & ASSOCIATES, P.C. 223 WEST JACKSON BLVD, STE 610 Chicago IL, 60606 312-263-0003 E-Mail: ilpleadings@potestivolaw.com Attorney File No. 110364 Attorney Code. 43932 Case Number: 18 CH 03092 TJSC#: 42-3929 NOTE: Pursuant to the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act, you are advised that Plaintiff's attorney

and

for that

Case # 18 CH 03092 I3206362

SAFETY

Can Automated Vehicles Pave the Way to Safer Roads?

(StatePoint) Fatal car crashes are on the rise, causing over 35,000 deaths each year nationwide. In many cases, driver behavior and/or driver error contributes to the crash. Can self-driving cars save lives? Experts say the answer is yes, but point out that automated vehicle technology will need to evolve from where it is today.

In particular, developing systems that allow pedestrians and computer- or AI-operated vehicles to seamlessly communicate will be key to ensuring their broad adoption. 2020 National Highway Traffic Safety Administration data shows that pedestrian fatalities are up 3.9% compared to the previous year. At more than 6,000 deaths annual ly, this is the highest this figure has been since 1989.

This is why Toyota’s Collaborative Safety Research Center (CSRC) has been working with the Massachusetts Institute of Technology AgeLab and the University of Wisconsin-Madison Cognitive Systems Lab to study how drivers and pedestrians signal their intent to one another. The teams broke down hundreds of hours of driving videos and footage from vehicle and intersection cameras to isolate, document and define the phys ical language used by drivers and pedestrians.

The aim of the research is ultimately to inform the development of advanced vehicle safety and sig naling features that perform similarly to existing drivers, as well as future automated vehicle tech nologies.

“Quantifying how, where and when interactions between drivers and pedestrians exchange social cues will help us create profiles that we can use to simulate situations and adjust the vehicle behavior. If we can do that well, it will help with advanced automated vehicle development, and will allow vehicles to exhibit the right social cues to become more integrated into society,” says Dr. Josh Domeyer, senior researcher, CSRC.

Defining “vehicle communication” as much more than turn signals and brake lights, this research is identifying and investigating the num ber of small behaviors that drivers perform in order to indicate their intent through movement. For instance, drivers typically begin stopping earlier and farther away for pedestrians than they would

for a stop sign. Similarly, a driver will often slowly inch forward to indicate when they intend to pro ceed through the crosswalk. Such behaviors are important for safe and polite interactions and can be applied to automated vehicles in the future.

“For self-driving cars to become widespread and for people to become comfortable with the idea of using them, we’ll need to design complex and intri cate systems that allow these vehicles to behave and interact with pedestrians in ways that are already common,” says Dr. Domeyer.

To learn more about CSRC’s research, visit amrd.toyota.com.

As researchers identify and plug the safety gaps created by new transportation technologies, they remain hopeful that the widespread adoption of automated vehicles will pave the way to safer roads and lives saved.

SENIOR LIVING

plan to avoid gaps in coverage as well as late penalties.

2. Nail down the basics. There are many differ ent plan types. Here’s a breakdown: • Original Medicare, offered through the U.S. gov ernment, includes all providers who agree to par ticipate in the program.

• Medicare Supplement plans are plans offered by many private insurers that complement Original Medicare. For an additional premium, these plans cover costs such as copays and coinsurance not covered by Original Medicare. There are a number of standardized options available.

• Standalone Prescription Drug Plans, offered by private insurers for a monthly premium, provide drug coverage not covered by Original Medicare or Medicare Supplement.

• Medicare Advantage (MA) plans cover everything covered by Original Medicare, and most also include dental, vision and hearing benefits. They often include prescription drug coverage, and other extras like over-the-counter drugs, trans portation to doctor’s visits and pharmacies, and fit ness plans. MA plans are often available at no extra cost.

3. Review your plan annually. During the AEP (October 15-December 7), it’s important to review your current Medicare plan, even if you like it. This is because plan details are subject to change every year. Review the Annual Notice of Changes, which is mailed to you by your insurer each September. This document spells out plan changes for the upcoming year.

4. Compare all the costs. Be sure to factor in all the associated costs of a given plan, not just the monthly premium. Out-of-pocket costs, such as co-pays and deductibles, should also be consid ered. Additionally, note the prices and rules around the prescription drugs you take.

7 Tips for Finding a Medicare Plan That Works for You

(StatePoint) Feeling overwhelmed by your Medicare options? There’s a good reason for that. With more than 3,000 Medicare Advantage plans, over 700 Part D Prescription Plans available and an array of carriers offering Medicare Supplement plans, there’s a lot to consider.

“Whether this is your first time enrolling in Medicare or you’ve been through the process before, it’s easy to get confused by the big picture, not to mention all the details,” says Ryan Kocher, Medicare growth officer at Cigna. This Medicare Annual Election Period (AEP), Kocher is demystifying the enrollment process by sharing the same tips he offers to his own friends and family members:

1. Don’t wait. Understanding Medicare can pro tect your health and finances in the years to come. If you are transitioning from a commercial plan, work with an expert with your company’s insurance

5. Check network requirements. Before signing up for a particular plan, check to make sure that your favorite health care providers are in its network. While you may be able to go out of network for care, be prepared to pay more if you do.

6. Ask questions. Don’t settle on a plan until you understand it. If you have questions, reach out to your broker, insurer, physician and even those friends and family members who have Medicare for help.

7. Use your plan. Now that you have a plan, make the most of its benefits. Schedule all the screen ings, vaccines and other preventive health meas ures recommended by your doctor. Early interven tion can help detect conditions early when they can be more effectively treated.

For more information about Medicare, visit Medicare.gov, Cigna’s website at www.cig namedicare.com or the state health insurance assistance program in your area.

“Don’t be daunted by the Medicare enrollment process. Being a careful shopper can ensure you find a plan that accommodates your wallet and your well-being,” says Kocher.

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