CITIZEN SUBURBAN TIMES WEEKLY 3-06-2024

Brian Beals, 57, sits in his sister’s home in January, one month after being released from prison after serving 35 years for a wrongful conviction. Beals was studying at Southern Illinois University when he was arrested for a murder he did not commit in 1988. (CAPITOL NEWS ILLINOIS PHOTO BY DILPREET RAJU)

New state laws taking effect Jan. 1

Minimum wage hike, pets in public housing among new changes

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His Conviction Was Overturned After 35 Years Wrongfully Served. State Law Caps His Compensation at 14 Years.

BY PETER HANCOCK Capitol News Illinois phancock@capitolnewsillinois.com

SPRINGFIELD – Minimum wage workers in Illinois will see a boost in their hourly pay to $12 per hour starting Jan. 1, while tenants in affordable housing units will be allowed to keep pets.

Those are just some of the more than 300 new laws that take effect in the new year.

The minimum wage increase is actually the result of a 2019 law that phases in a state minimum wage to $15 an hour by 2025. This year, it will increase by one dollar to $12 an hour.

The law allowing public housing

Illinois leads nation in overturned wrongful convictions but has one of the lowest repayment structures

tenants to keep pets is the result of Senate Bill 154, by Sen. Linda Holmes, D-Aurora, and Rep. Stephanie Kifowit, D-Oswego. It provides that tenants of multifamily housing units that are acquired, built or renovated with money from the Illinois Affordable Housing Trust Fund may keep up to two cats or one dog weighing less than 50 pounds. It applies to residents of housing units that are designated as affordable housing for low- and very-lowincome families. The bill passed both chambers in its final form on May 30 and Gov. JB Pritzker signed it into law Aug. 6.

BY DILPREET RAJU CAPITOL NEWS ILLINOIS DRAJU@CAPITOLNEWSILLINOIS.COM

In December, 57-year-old Brian Beals spent Christmas with his sister Pattilyn for the first time 35 years.

Beals was exonerated and freed from Robinson Correctional Center in southeastern Illinois on Dec. 13 after a Cook County circuit court judge vacated his conviction and dismissed charges against him.

“In that moment, I was just trying to process how this all happened,” Beals told Capitol News Illinois. “Prison erases your ability to have hope.”

In 1990, a jury convicted Beals of first-degree murder for a shooting that killed a 6-year-old boy and injured his mother in Chicago’s Englewood neighborhood. He maintained his innocence as he was sentenced to 80 years in prison – essentially the rest of his life.

Other new laws include:

But last year, new evidence presented by the Illinois Innocence Project prompted a reexamination of Beals’ case. A Judge found the assigned detective had a pattern of police misconduct, and newly enhanced photographic evidence showed Beals was likely the target, rather than the perpetrator, of gunfire.

Vehicle taxes: SB58 raises the private vehicle tax, which is a sales tax paid on the purchase of vehicles, by $75 for each model year where the purchase price is less than $15,000 and by $100 for vehicles priced above that amount. However, the registration fee for trailers weighing less than 3,000 pounds will drop to $36 instead of $118.

Beals said he’s taking time to celebrate but is also now properly grieving family he lost while locked up.

“I’m now the second-oldest person in my nuclear family; it’s dramatically different,” Beals said. “I lost a brother, my mother, I lost my aunt, my uncle. They all passed away while I was incarcerated.”

But for those years he lost in prison, Beals’ exoneration doesn’t mean any automatic reimbursement from the state of Illinois. And the journey to get any sort of restitution for his decades of wrongful imprisonment is complicated, and one Beals believes is unfair.

four more men exonerated – all charged with murder in Cook County.

But as the state is a national leader in wrongfully convicting people, it’s near the bottom of all states in reimbursing exonerees for the time they wrongfully served.

Illinois’ current pay structure allows the court of claims to award exonerees at their discretion up to a certain amount, limiting maximum payouts based on time served.

For exonerees who served less than five years in prison, the maximum payout, which has increased incrementally to adjust for inflation, is about $85,000. Those who served up to 14 years can receive around $170,000, and anyone who served more than 14 years is limited to a total of about $200,000.

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College admissions: HB226, establishing the Higher Education Fair Admissions Act, prohibits public colleges and universities from requiring applicants to submit SAT, ACT or other standardized test scores as part of the admissions process, although prospective students may choose to submit them if they wish.

Because of the way the system is structured, Beals’ potential compensation essentially stopped accruing after he served 14 years. A new bill in the General Assembly would seek to remove the roughly $200,000 cap on payments to exonerees that maxes out at the 14-year mark, replacing it with a payout of $50,000 per year, capped at just over $2 million.

Illinois’ compensation practices

For Beals, Illinois’ statute essentially dictates that the court of claims cannot reimburse him for the last two decades of his wrongful sentence, due to the 14-year cap. A maximum payout would equate to less than $6,000 per year spent in prison, well below even half of the federal poverty line.

Beals said the current structure doesn’t provide justice.

“There needs to be more attention on this issue,” he said. “It’s not fair, obviously. You’re compensated less (per year) for the time you’re incarcerated.”

CST Weekly, published weekly on Wednesdays and distributed in the Township of Bloom, (publishing 52 issues annually). W ritten permission is required to reproduce contents in whole or part from the General manager or the publisher CST Weekly does not assume the responsibility for nor are we able to return unsolicited marterials. Deadline for advertising is every Monday at noon. For information on subscriptions or advertising call us at (773) 783-1251. Our office is located at 8741 S. Greenwood Ave., Ste# 107, Chicago, Illinois 60619.

CST Weekly,published weekly on Wednesdays and distributed in the Township of Bloom, (publishing 52 issuesannually). W ritten permission isrequired to reproduce contents inwholeor part from the Generalmanager or the publisher CST Weekly does not assume the responsibilityfor nor are weable to return unsolicited marterials. Deadline for advertising is everyMonday at noon. For information on subscriptions oradvertising call us at (773)783-1251. Our office is locatedat 8741S. Greenwood Ave., Ste# 107, Chicago, Illinois 60619.

CST Weekly,published weekly on Wednesdays and distributed in the Township of Bloom, (publishing 52 issuesannually). W ritten permission isrequired to reproduce contents inwholeor part from the Generalmanager or the publisher CST Weekly does not assume the responsibilityfor nor are weable to return unsolicited marterials. Deadline for advertising is everyMonday at noon. For information on subscriptions oradvertising call us at (773)783-1251. Our office is locatedat 8741S. Greenwood Ave., Ste# 107, Chicago, Illinois 60619.

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Drug prices: SB1682 requires pharmacies to post a notice informing consumers that they may request current pharmacy retail prices at the point of sale.

The path for most exonerees to find some version of justice travels through the Illinois Court of Claims, where Illinoisans can file claims to recover damages against a state agency or employee. Claimants seeking money for a wrongful conviction must first obtain a certificate of innocence from the circuit court in which they were convicted; something Beals’ lawyers say they see no major challenges in obtaining.

FOID card changes: HB562 enacts several changes to the Firearm Owner Identification card law. Among other things, it provides for a streamlined renewal process for FOID cards and Concealed Carry

It’s a process that more people are undertaking in Illinois than in any other state in the nation. Illinois leads the U.S. in wrongful convictions, with 531 exonerees on record at the National Registry of Exonerations, which is managed by multiple universities and is the only national database tracking wrongful convictions.

Josh Tepfer, a lawyer at the Exoneration Project – a legal group providing free aid to those claiming innocence – said he recently represented a man in a similar position as Beals.

“Francisco Benitez, my client, just spent over 30 years in prison,” Tepfer said. “Now he can only get the same amount as someone who did 14 years, so that doesn’t make a lot of sense.”

For the 373 claimants that have already been compensated under state statute, Illinois has paid out average sums of about $112,000 per exoneree, according to the latest data compiled by Jeffrey Gutman, director of George Washington University Law School’s Public Justice Advocacy Clinic.

That comes to an average of $15,000 per year imprisoned, the second lowest amount per year of all states that have paid out statutory claims to date.

“The way that Illinois has done it has always been unfair to people who have been in prison the longest,” Gutman said.

Illinois’ proposed fix

Last year the Illinois House unanimously approved a measure that would increase statutory compensation for those who have been wrongfully convicted to $50,000 per year of wrongful imprisonment, maxing out at the $2 million cap that otherwise governs court of claims payouts. It would apply to all pending and future claims.

United States. In June, President Joe Biden also signed a bill designating Juneteenth as a federal holiday.

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health without providing a medical note. Those students will be given an opportunity to make up any work they missed during the first absence and, after using a second mental health day, may be referred

Despite only having about 4 percent of the country’s population, Illinois is responsible for 16 percent of overturned wrongful convictions in the U.S. Over 90 percent of exonerees in Illinois are Black or Latino compared to the nationwide rate of 65 percent. In January, Illinois saw

Hair styles: SB817 prohibits discrimination in schools against individuals on the grounds of wearing natural or ethnic hairstyles, which include dreadlocks, braids, twists and afros.

Lemonade stands: SB119 prohib-

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its public health authorities from regulating or shutting down lemonade stands or similar operations that are operated by children under the age of 16. Known as “Hayli’s Law,” it was inspired by 12-year-old Hayli Martinez, whose lemonade stand in Kankakee was shut down by local officials.

It was one of two bills regarding exoneration that cleared the House unanimously last year, but both are awaiting a committee assignment in the Senate. Those measures – House Bill 1015 and House Bill 1016 –have since been combined into a single amendment to HB 1015. Capitol News Illinois was not able to schedule an interview with the bill’s Senate sponsors, including lead sponsor Sen. Elgie Sims, D-Chicago, despite numerous outreach attempts over several weeks.

Juneteenth: HB3922 recognizes June 19, or “Juneteenth,” as an official state holiday that commemorates the end of slavery in the

The proposed amendment to HB 1015 offers partial-year reimbursement and $25,000 per year awaiting trial, and it indexes pay to increase with inflation each year up to 5 percent.

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Capitol News Illinois is a nonprofit, nonpartisan news service covering state government and distributed to more than 400 newspapers statewide. It is funded primarily by the Illinois Press Foundation and the Robert R. McCormick Foundation.

Caroline Wanga, Essence President and CEO, to Keynote Catalyst Awards 2024

Just-announced speakers include leading voices on workplace inclusion and women’s advancement, Fortune 500 CEOs

NEW YORK, PRNewswire -- Caroline Wanga, President and CEO of Essence Ventures, will share her wisdom and signature leadership around authenticity in a keynote fireside chat at the Catalyst Awards Conference & Dinner on March 12. The annual event is hosted by Catalyst, a global nonprofit promoting gender equity and workplace inclusion, in New York and online for a global audience.

Caroline Wanga is the Co-Founder of WangaWoman LLC and President and CEO of Essence Ventures, the number one media, technology and commerce company dedicated to Black women and communities. She joined Essence Ventures from Target Corporation in 2020, where she served as Chief Culture, Diversity and Inclusion Officer. Wanga has worked her way up from entry-level positions to the highest of C-suite roles and is passionate about modelling what she teaches. Her “real-talk” delivery, witty thought leadership and unmitigated perspective on democratizing authenticity make her a highly sought-after keynote speaker, equity strategist, thought leader, and community influencer.

Additional just-announced speakers and sessions for the conference include:

Reshma Saujani, Founder of Moms First and Girls Who Code, leading a session on the childcare crisis and how companies can build workplaces that work for working parents.

Mike Wirth, Chevron Chairman & CEO, in a fireside chat with Catalyst CEO Lorraine Hariton sharing his personal journey and how he has made gender partnership a priority as an ally for diversi-

His Conviction...

ty, equity, and inclusion.

Melonie Parker, Google’s Chief Diversity Officer, in conversation with Melody Hobson, Chairman of the Board of Starbucks Corporation and Co-CEO and President of Ariel Investments, highlighting how women of color in leadership positions can use their power and influence for positive change.

Sephora and Zoetis have demonstrated the value of diversity, equity, and inclusion efforts to create workplaces that work for women – and for everyone – and will be honored with the 2024 Catalyst Award for their efforts and results. These companies’ initiatives have engaged employees at all levels, resulting in increased representation of women, including women of color, across their organizations.

advance talent and strengthen their organizations through gender equity.

The 2024 Catalyst Awards Conference & Dinner—the premier gender equity conference and awards—will take place in person at the New York Hilton Midtown in New York City and online. This year’s theme, the Catalyst Effect, celebrates the collective impact of individuals committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion—who together can create massive change.

Ticket packages and individual tickets are on sale now for both the Conference and Dinner events.

Since 1987, the Catalyst Award has recognized 110 initiatives at 98 organizations from around the world. Catalyst Award Winners lead a community of forward-thinking organizations that are developing new and innovative ways to

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Should it become law, about 40 exonerees would be eligible for an increased payout in addition to the roughly 20 state claims currently pending in the Illinois Court of Claims, according to the National Registry of Exonerations.

Gutman said while other states that have upped their pay structures have applied the changes retroactively, Illinois would face a unique challenge in doing so because almost 400 claimants have received compensation over the years.

Louisiana, which has almost 90 exonerees, changed its pay structure in 2022. The legislature addressed equity by allowing prior exonerees one year to apply for supplemental pay at the new rate.

A rigid $50,000 per year would not only be a significant change in pay but a shift of power from the court of claims. Under current law, the court of claims has discretion over the award, only up to the stated limits.

While Tepfer said the court of claims can be “often very generous” within the parameters of the law, it’s ultimately the statutory limits that make the current law unfair. He is supportive of the proposed change.

“It will up what they receive, and I think that’s warranted. I mean, $50,000, that’s a pretty small amount annually…that doesn’t even account for all the mental anguish and time away from family,” he said.

Lauren Kaeseberg, co-director of the Illinois Innocence Project and someone who represented Beals, said raising exoneree pay is about doing what is right. She and Beals spent a week in January in Springfield speaking to lawmakers about challenges exonerees face.

“The state is acknowledging that ‘We got this wrong

and here is this amount of money that’s going to compensate you for the time that you were taken and held captive for all those years,’” Kaeseberg said. “We need to compensate people at an amount that is respectful and that acknowledges their worth.”

Other avenues

Those seeking compensation beyond what the court of claims can offer also have the right to sue in civil court. Likely due to the restrictive nature of Illinois’ compensation structure, 473 exonerees have filed civil claims for damages compared to 404 who have filed direct claims through state law.

Still, exonerees interested in receiving pay outside of the court of claims face a more onerous process that can drag on for years and requires a higher burden of proof. These suits usually take place in federal court and often focus on allegations of misconduct, rather than compensating exonerees for time unjustly served. Awards are usually paid out by taxpayers through the parties named responsible, such as county or city police department. Some municipalities, including Chicago, have wrongful conviction insurance to cover parts of the payout.

But less than half of all U.S. plaintiffs who have been wrongfully convicted and sought pay have received any compensation, according to the National Registry of Exonerations. In Illinois, civil suits have a far lower success rate than statutory claims. Most exonerees that seek pay from the court of claims receive it, but only about 30 percent of all Illinois exonerees who filed cases in civil court have won them.

Catalyst is a global nonprofit supported by many of the world’s most powerful CEOs and leading companies to help build workplaces that work for women. Founded in 1962, Catalyst drives change with preeminent thought leadership, actionable solutions, and a galvanized community of multinational corporations to accelerate and advance women into leadership—because progress for women is progress for everyone.

Illinois faces a backlog with almost 279 pending wrongful conviction civil cases, nearly seven times more than the next closest state, New York at 41.

But with an average payout of more than $5.5 million, the 123 successful civil claimants in Illinois received millions of dollars beyond what the court of claims could pay out.

Brian Beals is still waiting to see the outcome of HB 1015 before making any claims of his own.

He should have no problems obtaining a certificate of innocence since the Cook County State Attorney’s Office issued a celebratory news release the day Beals was released. But Kaeseberg said that is not the same for all counties or cases. Some prosecutors, she said, would prefer to not have a case they litigated result in an incorrect verdict.

For now, Beals said he is trying to understand technology’s many advances but is happy to be spending time with family during what has been a “surreal” couple of months.

“I had three generations of family with me on Christmas Day and I’m very fortunate to have that experience, my first Christmas at home in 35 years,” Beals said. “I’m catching up.”

Capitol News Illinois is a nonprofit, nonpartisan news service covering state government. It is distributed to hundreds of newspapers, radio and TV stations statewide. It is funded primarily by the Illinois Press Foundation and the Robert R. McCormick Foundation, along with major contributions from the Illinois Broadcasters Foundation and Southern Illinois Editorial Association.

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GOAT HOSPITALITY GROUP’S LUNASOL NIGHTCLUB

TO ILLUMINATE MIAMI’S SKYLINE: A MYTHICAL JOURNEY TO THE HEART OF MAYAN CULTURE

MIAMI, PRNewswire -- Goat Hospitality Group proudly unveils its latest marvel: LunaSol. Set to grace the space formerly known as Club 50 located at 485 Brickell Avenue, LunaSol emerges as Miami’s premier rooftop sanctuary, seamlessly blending the enchantment of Mayan history with the vibrancy of contemporary nightlife. With an eight-figure facelift, this luxurious rooftop restaurant and lounge promises to set the standard of culinary excellence and cultural immersion, slated to debut in the summer of 2024 amidst the pulsating heart of Brickell.

“Prepare to embark on a transcendent journey through time and taste,” said Derek Gonzalez, the visionary founder of Goat Hospitality Group. “With LunaSol, we endeavor to unveil the captivating tapestry of Mayan heritage, infusing every moment with the allure of ancient mystique and modern sophistication.”

Drawing inspiration from the hidden cenotes of the Yucatan Peninsula, LunaSol invites patrons to traverse lush greenery and natural symphonies as they ascend to its expansive 11,000-square-foot indoor/outdoor oasis. Here, guests will encounter ten meticulously curated zones, each a testament to Mayan mythology, brought to life through immersive activations that evolve with the rhythm of the day and night.

During the sun-kissed hours, LunaSol transforms into a resort-style haven, boasting an exclusive pool adorned with private cabanas and daybeds. Against the backdrop of rhythmic beats from world-class DJs, guests can indulge in poolside delights and signature cocktails, luxuriating in the embrace of Miami’s skyline.

As twilight descends, LunaSol’s culinary voyage begins under the expert guidance of Executive Chef Abelardo Vargas. His menu, a fusion of traditional ingredients and avant-garde techniques, pays homage to the rich tapestry of Mayan flavors. Diners can savor an array of tantalizing

dishes, each a symphony of taste echoing the depth of Mayan culinary heritage.

With the setting sun casting its golden glow upon LunaSol’s 360-degree panoramic views, guests are invited to partake in a nocturnal odyssey unlike any other. LunaSol’s rooftop lounge, aglow with the city’s luminescence, invites

revelers to indulge in an opulent selection of premium spirits and rare champagnes. The evening crescendos with residencies from the world’s foremost DJs, ensure that each night at LunaSol is an unforgettable chapter in Miami’s nightlife narrative.

Crafted in collaboration with esteemed design luminaries Lorena Alvarez of Tan-Tán Studio, Min Peniche of Arkham Projects, and architect Christian Magaldi of Magaldi Studio, LunaSol’s aesthetic pays homage to Mayan architecture and art. Intricate geometric patterns and towering

columns converge to create a sacred space where history and modernity intertwine, enveloping guests in an otherworldly embrace.

“At LunaSol, design isn’t just an aesthetic—it’s an experience,” asserts Gonzalez. “Every element, from the ethereal lighting to the mythic motifs, converges to weave a narrative that transcends time and transports guests to the heart of Mayan civilization.”

LunaSol’s drink menu stands as a testament to luxury and celebration, setting us apart from everyone else in Miami. Drawing inspiration from the vibrant energy of St. Tropez and the mystique of Tulum, our menu features a wide selection of 3-liter jeroboam and 6-liter methuselah champagne bottles, perfect for every occasion and celebration. Emphasizing the essence of extravagance, LunaSol offers an array of premium mezcal and tequila options, allowing patrons to embark on a sensory journey through the flavors of Mexico. From intimate gatherings to grand festivities, LunaSol’s drink menu promises to elevate every moment with sophistication and flair, ensuring an unforgettable experience unmatched by any other in the Magic City.

Veteran Goat executives Michael Crucet and Stanfford Knight have been instrumental in shaping LunaSol’s transformative journey. Their leadership and innovation in Miami’s vibrant hospitality scene played crucial roles in curating LunaSol’s illustrious bottle menu and crafting an unparalleled experience.

LunaSol is poised to make its grand debut in the summer of 2024, captivating adventurers and epicureans alike to embark on a journey of unparalleled enchantment. Located on the 50th floor of 485 Brickell Ave., LunaSol will illuminate Miami’s skyline nightly from Thursday to Sunday, with daytime pool parties on Saturdays and Sundays. For further inquiries and to stay on top of LunaSol’s luminous journey, visit LunaSolBrickell.com.

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Renderings of LunaSol by Goat Hospitality Group. Courtesy of Goat Hospitality Group

Gap Champions Originality In New Spring Campaign

Starring GRAMMY® Awardwinning Artist Tyla

NEW YORK, PRNewswire -- Gap, the iconic American fashion brand, is proud to debut its Spring 2024 campaign featuring linen as a canvas for original style. The campaign serves as a celebration of self-expression and individuality through fashion, music and dance.

Starring GRAMMY® Award-winning artist Tyla, the campaign embraces Gap’s roots as a pop culture brand working with artistic originals across fashion and music. Each frame showcases seamless motion and effortless movement of the brand’s newest Linen Collection, inviting wearers to make each piece their own.

Featuring worldwide hit “Back On 74” by the BRIT Award–nominated Jungle, with original choreography by Shay Latukolan, the campaign is directed by Jungle’s J Lloyd and Charlie Di Placido and inspired by the track’s official video, which became a global phenomenon on TikTok and inspired a dance craze with over a billion views.

Tyla, the 22-year-old sensation born and raised in South Africa, is making waves with her recent Billboard Hot 100 hit “Water.” With a massive following, she has captivated audiences with dance routines and song covers, showcasing her unique style and individuality. Tyla’s creativity and authenticity align seamlessly with Gap’s commitment to championing originality.

“It’s an absolute honor to be in a Gap campaign – so many iconic artists have worked with Gap and I now get to be one of them,” said Tyla. “I’m excited for my fans to see me do a new type of dance where I’m styled in comfortable clothes with my own personal touches. It was really fun – a true cel ebration of music, fashion and dance.”

Founded by childhood friends J Lloyd and Tom McFarland, Jungle’s genre-blurring mix of timeless dis co, hip-hop, funk and future-facing production, along with their expres sive and inventive visual aesthetic,

have cemented their status as one of the UK’s biggest and most exciting bands.

“Working with talent who embody the spirit of originality is not just a choice, but a commitment to our brand’s heritage,” said Mark Breitbard, Gap’s President and CEO. “This campaign pays homage to Gap’s iconic musical ads of the past while embracing the diverse voices and talents that shape our present and future. We continue to draw inspiration from artists who authentically express themselves, using Gap style to reflect their unique personalities.”

The campaign highlights the ease and versatility of Gap’s latest collection of iconic silhouettes in its signature linen fabrications. As a canvas for self-expression, the pieces in the Linen Collection allow for free-flowing movement and effortless style. Gap Linen is easy to wear, versatile, and conveniently machine washable. Collection staples include the Linen Cropped Boyfriend Shirt, 100% Linen Boyfriend Shirt, Linen Button-Up, and the 365 Linen-Blend

The campaign cast wears a mix of several linen and linen-blend items dressed in neutral and tonal styles.

Tyla wears the Linen Cargo Pant and Crop Top alongside the rest of the cast styled in other loose fit and utility-focused items from the collection, such as the Linen Halter Vest, the Linen Cargo WideLeg Pant, the Linen Long Sleeve Button-Up, and the Linen ‘90s Loose, which is a new take on the classic pant.

Gap’s Spring 2024 campaign launched across digital media, out-of-home, video, social and Gap brand channels on Tuesday, Feb. 27. Gap will also collaborate with Jungle and Tyla to create an in-store playlist, which will also be available on Spotify. Stay tuned for more updates as we continue to inspire and empower individuals to express their own originality. Follow @Gap to learn more.

Klarna teams up with Chicago cross-stitch designer Emma “Stitch Gawd” McKee

NEW YORK, PRNewswire -- Klarna, the AI powered global payments network and shopping assistant, announced today its latest collaboration with Chicago-based designer Emma “The Stitch Gawd” McKee, who will design a new special edition sneaker for the Bulls’ beloved mascot, Benny The Bull, as part of Klarna’s multi-year partnership as the official shopping partner of the legendary Chicago Bulls. “The Stitch Gawd” presented the shoes to Benny at The Bulls’ Feb. 27 home game against the Detroit Pistons.

“The Stitch Gawd,” who has worked with Chicago icons including Chance the Rapper and several Bulls stars in the past, will design the third iteration of Benny The Bull’s shoes facilitated by Klarna after being selected to carry on the tradition by last year’s designer and Bulls Creative Strategy and Design Advisor, Don C. The shoes represent a tribute to the city, the original Chicago Stadium and the history that was made within the arena, with three stripes on each side to represent the first three NBA Championships won within that building. In addition to the stripes, McKee built in four stars on each shoe to represent Chicago, stitched “1929” and “1994” into the pull tabs to represent the years the stadium was built and torn down, and chose red as the shoe’s color in a tribute to Benny himself. The four key elements are also a nod back to Klarna’s signature Pay in Four feature.

“I’m thrilled to partner with Klarna and design a shoe for Chicago’s most iconic mascot, Benny The Bull,” said McKee. “I love the city of Chicago and being able to create a shoe that’s a tribute to the city and represents the nostalgia of the late ‘80s and early ‘90s Bulls was such a great experience. The Benny shoes have all sorts of nods to the Chicago Stadium - namely, the original Benny The Bull shoes were all red, and so are these (with a hint of Klarna pink, of course). And the four gold stars are of course for the city of Chicago.”

Fellow Chicago-based designer and Bulls Creative Strategy and Design Advisor, Don C, who designed last year’s shoe, passed the baton to “The Stitch Gawd” at the Feb. 27 game, as she presents the new pair of shoes to Benny. For the 2023/24 NBA season, Don C designed four limited-edition, collectable posters that fans can get exclusive through shopping with Klarna Smoooth Delivery at the United Center, a service curated by Klarna and the Bulls, that allows fans to shop select items via the Klarna app during games and have it delivered directly to their seat.

“We’re excited to partner with ‘The Stitch Gawd’ on another exciting Benny The Bull sneaker collaboration,” said Megan Gokey, Head of B2C Marketing in North America and the United Kingdom, Klarna. “Her design is a nod to the history of the Bulls and the iconic Chicago Stadium, a place where Chicago sports fans have made memories for decades. Through our partnership with the Bulls, Klarna is always looking to boost the fan experience and make shopping smoother within the United Center.”

“I’m thrilled to pass on this design project to my friend Emma ‘The Stitch Gawd,’” said Don C. “We both share a passion for design and for the city of Chicago, so this is the perfect project for us both. I can’t wait for Bulls fans to see the nostalgic shoe design she’s put together - I even used it as inspiration for the fourth iteration of my poster series with the Bulls.”

Emma McKee, known as “The Stitch Gawd,” is Chicago’s preeminent “hip-hop cross-stitcher,” curating cross-stitch designs for musicians and artists including SZA, Chance the Rapper and Kendrick Lamar, as well as several athletes. Raised in Kansas City, McKee discovered her love for the city of Chicago when she moved there as an adult and stitched her first piece: an adaptation of Will Prince’s artwork for Chance the Rapper’s song “Hey Ma.” Her portfolio expanded from there and she has now firmly established herself within Chicago’s music, sports and entertainment community.

This is the third consecutive year that Klarna has partnered with a Chicago creative to design special edition sneakers for the Bulls’ iconic mascot, previously collaborating with Chuck Anderson and Don C.

Since 2005 Klarna has been on a mission to accelerate commerce with consumer needs at the heart of it. With over 150 million global active users and 2 million transactions per day, Klarna’s fair, sustainable and AI-powered payment and shopping solutions are revolutionizing the way people shop and pay online and in-store, empowering consumers to shop smarter with greater confidence and convenience. More than 500,000 global retailers integrate Klarna’s innovative technology and marketing solutions to drive growth and loyalty, including H&M, Saks, Sephora, Macy’s, Ikea, Expedia Group, Nike and Airbnb. For more information, visit Klarna.com.

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Sheriff Dart Announces Awareness Campaign on Firearm Restraining Orders

COOK COUNTY, IL – Cook County Sheriff Thomas J. Dart is raising public awareness about an underutilized tool for the public that can remove firearms from individuals who pose an immediate and present danger to themselves or others.

“Undoubtably, there are people out there right now who know someone who is an immediate danger and has access to firearms. This law can help, but too few people know about it,” Sheriff Dart said. “We need to get the word out to residents that the firearm restraining order can be a critical part of protecting themselves and their families, particularly in a mental health or domestic situation.”

The Sheriff’s Office has partnered with the City of Chicago to run digital billboard awareness messages that direct individuals to the Sheriff’s Office website, www.cookcountysheriffil.gov, for more information on Firearm Restraining Orders.

The Firearm Restraining Order Act (FRO), also known as Illinois’ “Red Flag” law, allows police officers, family members, and household members to petition their local circuit court to remove firearms from those who are presently exhibiting threatening behavior and poses an immediate and present danger of causing injury. Members of the public can file petitions themselves or inquire with their local law enforcement agency for assistance.

Since the law went into effect in 2019, it has been little used, in part due to lack of awareness within both law enforcement and the public. To help with this issue, the Sheriff’s Office has hosted training sessions with scores of county law enforcement agencies. Since 2022, the Sheriff’s Office has filed more than a dozen FRO orders, leading to the removal of nearly 100 firearms. Meanwhile, the public awareness billboards are now visible on a rotating basis on approximately 57 billboard faces near Chicago expressways as well as on electronic street advertising spots downtown.

“This is a solution that is readily available right now. People can use this tool to stop gun violence,” Sheriff Dart said. “We will continue to do everything on our end to educate the public and work with agencies to spread the word. This can save lives.”

Dr. Leon Clark. PRNewsfoto/ Alameda Health System.

Why is skin disease often misdiagnosed and untreated in Black patients?

OAKLAND, Calif., PRNewswire -- Skin disease in people of color is under-diagnosed, often goes untreated and is more deadly, according to the latest research.

For most of history, medical students studying dermatology have been shown pictures of diseases on white skin only, leading to vast inequities in how Black and brown people are treated for skin disorders.

Dr. Leon Clark, dermatology chief at Alameda Health System (AHS), is trying to change that. He founded AHS’ dermatology division in 2020 and focuses on diseases that more commonly affect Black and Latinx populations.

Clark was in residency training when he noticed Black patients coming in with treatable diseases – sometimes covering 90 percent of their skin – that had gone untreated and undiagnosed. Patients said previous doctors had ignored their complaints. Those doctors likely hadn’t been trained to identify diseases such as eczema in darker-colored skin.

“Someone who’s not familiar with what that looks like in Black skin may say, ‘Oh this is mild,’” Clark said. “It

affects treatment in terms of how aggressively you treat it. I see it all the time, unfortunately.”

There is now a national conversation around updating training materials to include a wider range of skin colors, as well as diversifying the workforce. But a lot of work remains to be done.

Alameda Health System (AHS) is a leading public, integrated health care provider and medical training institution recognized for its world-class patient and family-centered care. AHS provides comprehensive medical treatment, health promotion and disease prevention throughout our integrated network of hospitals, clinics and health services. AHS includes three acute care hospitals, a psychiatric hospital, four ambulatory care wellness centers, five post-acute facilities, and the only adult Level 1 Trauma Center and psychiatric emergency department in Alameda County. AHS is committed to promoting wellness and optimizing the health of the community through the mission of caring, healing, teaching and serving all. For more information, visit AlamedaHealthSystem.org.

The Ad Council, Coalition of Health Systems and Hospitals Tackle America’s Most Urgent Public Health Crisis: Gun Violence

NEW YORK, PRNewswire -- At Northwell Health’s 5th annual Gun Violence Prevention Forum, the Ad Council announced a new gun violence prevention initiative in collaboration with a coalition of health care leaders to address this urgent public health crisis and its impact on youth.

The Ad Council, America’s leading nonprofit driving nonpartisan social change through fully integrated communications initiatives, will lead the development of this new campaign, funded by members of the National Health Care CEO Council on Gun Violence Prevention and Safety. This group of chief executives represents some of the nation’s largest health systems and hospitals that are providing funding, strategic insight and issue expertise on gun violence prevention for the campaign. This initial donation of $10 million is the seed of a greater $40 million fundraising goal over the next two years to support the effort’s large-scale plans to reduce firearm deaths and injuries in the United States.

A recent analysis of CDC data by KFF shows that firearm injuries have been the leading cause of death among children and teens (ages 1-19) for three consecutive years. Additionally, in August 2023, Northwell Health researchers published a study in the American Academy of Pediatrics’ flagship journal that reported 4,752 pediatric firearm deaths in 2021, a number that reflects a 41.6 percent increase from 2018 to 2021. And according to a new poll from the Ad Council Research Institute (ACRI), a majority (79%) of adults in America find gun violence to be one of their top concerns. However, only 26% selected gun injuries as the leading cause of death among children, demonstrating a need for further education. Given this disheartening data, a major focus of the campaign’s messaging will be on promoting prevention strategies to curtail gun violence and its impact on youth.

With data-driven strategies and expert insights, the campaign will provide people throughout the country with a deeper understanding of the individual actions both gun owners and non-gun owners can take in their homes and communities to protect our nation’s youth and save lives.

Though tackling the crisis of gun violence may feel like a daunting task—and most Americans believe that gun violence will increase over the next five years—there is common ground and broad agreement on several paths forward. And according to the Johns Hopkins 2023 National Gun Policy Survey, a majority of Americans, regardless of political affiliation or gun-owning status, felt similarly about the potential for these solutions, showing that there are steps we can all take to reduce gun violence in our nation.

Health systems and hospitals throughout the country have seen firsthand the toll gun violence takes on communities. They collectively treat tens of thousands of gun injuries annually and health care workers and first responders serve on the frontlines, treating patients and their families. The unique point of view health care providers have in treating victims of gun violence and working to prevent gun violence in their communities will be instrumental in shaping the campaign’s strategy, bringing urgency and credibility to this issue in a powerful way.

range of expertise, including public health, epidemiology, suicide prevention, mental health, community and interpersonal violence, policy, as well as perspectives as gun violence survivors, and will help guide the campaign’s strategy and messaging:

Christian Heyne – Chief Programs and Policy Officer, Brady

Nicole Hockley – Co-founder and CEO, Sandy Hook Promise

Dr. Kurt Michael – Senior Clinical Director, The Jed Foundation

Dr. Ali Rowhani-Rahbar – Bartley Dobb Professor for the Study and Prevention of Violence, Interim Director of the Firearm Injury and Policy Research Program, University of Washington

Dr. Chethan Sathya – Director, Northwell Health Center for Gun Violence Prevention; Pediatric Surgeon, Trauma Director, Cohen Children’s Medical Center

Anthony Smith – Executive Director, Cities United

Dr. Laura Vargas – Assistant Professor in the Department of Psychiatry in the University of Colorado School of Medicine, Anschutz Medical Center

Dr. Ashley Williams – Trauma, Acute Care & Burn Surgeon, USA Health University Hospital; Director, USA Center for Healthy Communities; Founder & Director, Project Inspire

In collaboration with the National Health Care CEO Council on Gun Violence Prevention and Safety, the Ad Council is convening a broad coalition across the advertising, health care, marketing, media and tech industries to develop this new initiative with pro-bono support from creative agency GUT Miami. The campaign seeks to elevate the issue of gun violence in America and its impact on youth, shifting away from divisive, politically charged conversations to those focused on public health approaches that have proven effective in combating this epidemic.

Lead funding for the new national project spearheaded by the Ad Council has been provided by BJC Health System, Froedtert ThedaCare Health, Inc., Intermountain Health, Johns Hopkins Medicine, MedStar Health and Northwell Health. Significant funding has also been provided by Children’s Hospital Association, Endeavor Health and Yale New Haven Health. The new initiative builds on the success of existing efforts, activations and campaigns from these health systems and hospitals and brings together a unified force across industries to more holistically address this crisis. All funds raised for this new $40 million initiative go toward the research, development and creation of campaign assets—per the Ad Council model, campaign materials are run in time and space donated by the media.

To further ensure all campaign communications are evidenced-based, the Ad Council has convened an Issue Advisory Council comprised of subject-matter experts in gun violence prevention. These advisors represent a wide

Building from the model developed by the Ad Council for its groundbreaking COVID-19 Vaccine Education Initiative, which reached more than 75% of those eligible to get vaccinated against the virus, the nonprofit is evolving this approach to comprehensively address gun violence prevention. This includes a coalition-based and multi-audience approach, mobilizing the advertising, media and marketing industries to tackle gun violence prevention in America.

Data shows intervention exists in many forms for gun violence prevention. This new effort will complement both the successful “End Family Fire” and forthcoming Extreme Risk Laws Education campaigns developed by the Ad Council and Brady. These campaigns focus on two evidenced-based solutions, safe gun storage and education on state-level extreme risk laws, assuring responsible access and safeguarding of guns to prevent gun violence.

citizennewspapergroup.com

CHARLOTTE, NC – With significant gains in education, employment, and entrepreneurs, African American women emerged as leaders in Black homebuying, according to a report released by the National Association of Real Estate Brokers (NAREB).

NAREB’S 2023 Women Investing in Real Estate (W.I.R.E) report found that between 1990 and 2019, Black women increased homeownership by 5.6%. Moreover, Black women ages 45-54 and over 75 had a 2.9% increase during the pandemic, the largest among Black homeowners. In early 2020, when the pandemic onset slowed homebuying, Black women fared better than men.

“With the rise of Black women buying homes, there is hope for the future,” exclaimed Dr. Courtney Johnson Rose, NAREB’s President. “Black women are breaking down barriers in several areas, and homeownership is another example of the resilience and strength of Black women working to secure a financial foundation for themselves and their families and contributing to closing the racial wealth gap. By owning a home, Black women create paths toward long-term financial stability and a legacy for their families. Homeownership among Black women is economic empowerment and serves as a catalyst for broader community development.”

Dr. Rose added: “As homeowners invest in their properties, neighborhood revitalization often follows, impacting local economies and fostering community pride. This upward trajectory of Black female homeownership embodies the resilience

and determination to overcome historical challenges and pave the way for social and economic progress.”

Noting that Black female homebuyers rebounded faster and continued to outpace males during the economic recovery from the pandemic, the W.I.R.E report outlined the data demonstrating Black women’s growing status and strength in American society.

The W.I.R.E. report documented the economic gains that have paved the way for the success being enjoyed by Black women, who are 6.3% of the nation’s population, 52% of the African American population, and 12.5% of all women. Further, 63.4% of African American women over 16 are active in the labor force, and 89.3% of Black women have graduated high school or its equivalent.

Black women are also making tremendous strides as entrepreneurs. According to recent data, businesses owned by Black women grew by 50% between 2014 and 2019, with Black Women accounting for 42% of all women who opened new businesses during that period. In 2021, 17% of Black women were in the process of starting a new business. - 7% more than White women and 2% more than White men.

The real estate industry is also witnessing a positive trend concerning diversity, with an encouraging number of Black women carving a niche for themselves in this sector.

The shift towards greater inclusivity is a win for Black women and the industry, with diverse perspectives fostering innovation and a deeper

understanding of multifaceted market needs. It is widely recognized that the real estate industry has been working toward increasing diversity and inclusion within its ranks. Black women, in particular, have made strides in the field, with NAREB and others providing support and networking opportunities to encourage further representation.

“Despite these efforts, considerable work remains to be done to eliminate barriers to entry and advancement for underrepresented groups,” said Dr. Rose. “Ongoing mentorship programs and targeted educational resources are critical for equipping individuals with the knowledge and skills necessary to succeed. “

In response to the W.I.R.E. report, NAREB will host a pre-conference one-day event for Black women in real estate and finance as part of their annual convention on July 31, 2024, in New Orleans, LA.

NAREB was formed in 1947 to secure equal housing opportunities regardless of race, creed, or color. NAREB has advocated for legislation and supported or instigated legal challenges that ensure fair housing, sustainable homeownership, and access to credit for Black Americans. Simultaneously, NAREB advocates for and promotes access to business opportunities for Black real estate professionals in each real estate discipline. From the past to the present, NAREB remains an association proud of its history, dedicated to its chosen struggle, and unrelenting in its pursuit of the REALTIST®’s mission/vision embedded goal, “Democracy in Housing.”

Midwest Alliance for Clean Hydrogen (MachH2) Signs Joint Letter from All Seven Regional Clean Hydrogen Hubs (H2Hubs)

Narrowly proposed 45V guidance will have significant impact on H2Hubs projects throughout the country; MachH2 also issued its own specific recommendations to revise the draft guidance

The Midwest Alliance for Clean Hydrogen (MachH2) announced it has signed a letter with all seven regional clean hydrogen hubs (H2Hubs) urging the U.S. Department of Treasury to revise its proposed hydrogen production tax credit (45V) guidance. MachH2 also submitted specific recommendations to revise the guidance in a separate, independently issued letter. Both letters were submitted formally as comments through the Internal Revenue Service’s public comment docket.

“Each of our hubs has a range of ambitious projects aimed at accelerating the clean hydrogen industry, fostering economic growth, creating good-paying American jobs, and advancing environmental justice,” the joint H2Hubs letter states. “Unfortunately, these investments and jobs will not fully materialize unless Treasury’s guidance in its current form is significantly revised, as many of the projects generating these investments and supporting jobs will no longer be economically viable. We strongly urge the U.S. Treasury Department to reconsider and revise its proposed guidance on

the hydrogen production tax credit.”

MachH2’s letter echoed that sentiment.

“A rapid transition to clean hydrogen is vital for America meeting its goal of net zero emissions by 2050,” writes Dr. Dorothy Davidson, MachH2’s Chief Executive Officer.

“Achieving this, however, hinges on robust, flexible, and technology-neutral tax credit guidance. If implemented as written, Treasury’s guidance will severely impact the viability of several of our hub projects and result in the cancellation of our nuclear hydrogen production project. It will also threaten the associated benefits to bringing flexible and affordable clean energy and improving the environmental quality in our local communities,” writes Davidson.

MachH2 anticipates creating more than 10,000 clean energy jobs. MachH2’s projects are also estimated to reduce carbon emissions by approximately 3.9 million metric tons per year – equivalent to removing emissions from more than 867,000 gasoline powered cars annually[1].

MachH2 wants to adjust the guidance so that projects can provide a liftoff to the hydrogen market and a long-term path to hard-to-decarbonize emissions.

“It is imperative that Treasury’s final 45V regulations support the success of the MachH2 hub and expand opportunities to address and accelerate projects that will decarbonize our economies now and into the future,” said Davidson.

MachH2 is a multi-state coalition of public and private entities representing every phase in the hydrogen value chain. The alliance includes a cross section of carbon-free and low-carbon energy producers, clean energy developers, hydrogen technology providers, utilities, major manufacturers, and leading hydrogen technology development and deployment institutions. MachH2 was selected by the U.S. Department of Energy’s (DOE) Office of Clean Energy Demonstrations (OCED) to develop a Regional Clean Hydrogen Hub (H2Hub) in October of 2023. Learn more at MachH2. com.

Shaneé McCambry’s Women’s Empowerment Book, Perfectly Imperfect is Live

CONYERS, Ga.,

PRNewswire -- Novae COO, Shaneé McCambry is ready to take the world by storm with her new women’s empowerment book. Shaped by her own traumatic experiences, “Perfectly Imperfect” isn’t light reading—but it’s not meant to be.

“The book is about facing the ideas and perceptions that are holding us back,” McCambry explains. “Often these come from dark experiences where we’ve been made to feel like it’s wrong for us to be the main character in our own stories. I couldn’t address that without sharing the experiences that made me question my own abilities.”

The book’s release announcement coincided with McCambry winning The Future is Female Impact Award at the 2024 Koru Awards. McCambry has made women’s empowerment a major goal of hers since becoming Chief Operating Officer of Inc. 5000 company Novae, which gave her a broader platform to do her work.

“When I was younger,” McCambry said in our interview, “I felt like a failure. I had some really low points.

I never thought I could succeed in business, let alone be part owner of a successful company. When I realized it was possible to help people while pursuing my God-given purpose, I wanted to start an outreach for other women who might have felt the same.”

McCambry’s Women that Win workshop has sold out for two years running, drawing women from around the country to devote a weekend to both the business owner mindset and building confidence in the often underappreciated skills of attendees.

“As women, too often we don’t give ourselves enough credit. Too often we aren’t given enough credit. I see these women talking about doing all these amazing things, but they feel like it’s just part of their job as women. Like it

isn’t anything special.”

McCambry’s Women that Win event has inspired the creation of MENtality to Win, a men’s group based on similar ideas and run by her husband, Novae Founder/CEO Reco McCambry.

“Men face their own challenges, some of which are underappreciated,” McCambry explained, “and it’s important that they have a space where they can discuss these openly, too.”

Readers of “Perfectly Imperfect” can also purchase a companion journal containing blank pages for the reader to fill with 12 weeks’ worth of guided reflections. The questions invite readers to deep dive into their relationship with themself, and learn how to turn their story into strength.

“It really surprised me, some of the things that came out when I was working on the journal,” McCambry told us in our interview. “I truly believe it has the potential to be life-changing.”

For more information about Shaneé McCambry, the book, or to place your order, please visit https://www.ThePerfectlyImperfectBook.com.

THE LEGENDARY DORINDA CLARK-COLE OF THE CLARK SISTERS TO BE HONORED AS A TRAILBLAZER OF GOSPEL AT THE 2024 BMI TRAILBLAZERS OF GOSPEL MUSIC AWARDS

ATLANTA, PRNewswire -- BMI (Broadcast Music, Inc.) will pay tribute to the songwriters and publishers behind the best in Gospel at the 2024 BMI Trailblazers of Gospel Music Awards, held at Flourish Atlanta on Thursday, March 28th. Gospel legend and world-renowned evangelist Dorinda Clark-Cole will receive the evening’s highest honor as a Trailblazer of Gospel in recognition of her illustrious career spanning over 50 years and incomparable influence on the genre and beyond. Jonathan McReynolds will receive the BMI Champion Award for his exceptional artistry and impact on Gospel music, marking the first time this accolade has been presented at this ceremony. The private event will be hosted by BMI President & CEO Mike O’Neill and BMI Vice President, Creative, Atlanta, Catherine Brewton.

“We’re thrilled to be recognizing our BMI family of songwriters and publishers for their contributions to Gospel music and the Gospel community,” said Brewton. “When I think of a trailblazer in Gospel music, Dorinda stands out as a pioneering figure. The Clark Sisters are among the legends of Gospel, and Dorinda’s distinctive jazzy sound lends a unique brilliance to the group. I’m so proud to be honoring her work and highlighting the impact she’s made on the genre and community through her music and evangelism. We’re also paying tribute to one of the most incredible voices in Gospel, Jonathan McReynolds, whose music is often referred to as ‘life’ songs, speaking to the hearts of all. We’re looking forward to celebrating all of our honorees and bringing the community together for an afternoon of faith, fellowship and incredible music.”

Throughout the ceremony, BMI will also recognize the songwriters, producers and music publishers of the past year’s 25 most-performed Gospel songs in the United States. The BMI Gospel Song, Songwriter and Publisher of the Year will also be named during the inspirational event.

Dorinda Clark-Cole, known as the “Rose of Gospel Music,” is a multiple award-winning singer/songwriter, a talk show host, and world-renowned evangelist. Born and raised in Detroit, Clark–Cole is the daughter of pioneering choral director Mattie Moss Clark, and is best known as a member of The Clark Sisters, one of the most successful and groundbreaking Gospel music groups of all time. Some of the iconic group’s crossover hits include “Blessed & Highly Favored,” “Hallelujah,” “He Gave Me Nothing to Lose,” “Jesus Is A Love Song,” “Pure Gold,” “Expect A Miracle,” and “You Brought The Sunshine,” to name a few. Throughout Clark-Cole’s remarkable career she’s received many accolades as part of The Clark Sisters and as a solo artist, including two GRAMMY Awards, two Dove Awards, three BMI Awards, 13 Stellar Gospel Music Awards and a Lady of Soul Award. The sisters also received a Lifetime Achievement honor at this year’s GRAMMY Awards, which followed a James Cleveland Lifetime Achievement Award at the Stellar Awards in 2020 and induction to the Black Music & Entertainment Hall of Fame in 2022. In 2020, The Clark Sisters: The First Ladies of Gospel biopic, produced by Mary J. Blige, Missy Elliott and Queen Latifah, premiered on Lifetime to over 20 million viewers.

Mastering a balance between music and evangelism, Clark-Cole currently serves as International Elect Lady of the International Department of Evangelism (IDOE) to the Church of God in Christ and is the church administrator for Greater Emmanuel Institutional Church of God in Christ.

Born and raised on the Southside of Chicago, Jonathan McReynolds cultivated his love for music at an early age in church and continues to share his music, heart, and journey as he travels the world professing the Gospel through his inspiring song ministry. The award-winning singer/songwriter has released six full-length albums including his 2018 release Make Room, which debuted at #1 on Billboard’s Gospel charts, winning eight Stellar Awards and earning two GRAMMY nominations. In 2020, he released, People, which garnered his first GRAMMY for Best Gospel Performance/Song for his hit single “Moving On.” His latest release My Truth (2023) spent several weeks on Billboard’s Gospel charts and earned McReynolds a Dove Award for Contemporary Gospel/Urban Recorded Song of the Year for his single “Your World” and a GRAMMY nomination for Best Gospel Album. McReynolds has also received four BMI Awards and was named BMI’s Gospel Songwriter of the Year in 2023.

In addition to his successful career in music, Jonathan has a Master of Arts in Biblical Studies from Moody Theological Seminary and founded Elihu Nation, a nonprofit organization that has awarded tens of thousands of dollars in scholarships to youth across the country.

citizennewspapergroup.com

Shaneé McCambry pictured at the book release announcement. Novae.

Author Shaneé McCambry pictured with her husband, Reco McCambry, at the announcement for the release of her new book, Perfectly Imperfect. Novae

Sweet Family Favorites to Celebrate Lent

(Family Features) If you’re in search of a meatless meal – whether you’re observing Lent or simply adhering to your own dietary restrictions – remember you don’t have to sacrifice on taste. Enjoying a delicious dish without the meat can be an easy feat with just a few everyday ingredients.

Start with the craveable texture and crunch of Envy Apples – a leading apple variety – that provide balanced sweetness with flesh that remains white longer, even after cutting. While they’re often best served fresh or paired with cheese boards, sandwiches or mocktails, their sweetness also helps play up meatless favorites like Seared Salmon with Apple Slaw.

The flaky baked fish is complemented perfectly by Asian-style barbecue sauce and fresh herbs then paired with a sweet homemade apple slaw for a classic Lenten dish with a tangy twist. For a fami-

ly meal that doubles down on freshness, try pairing with roasted broccolini or a light salad.

Firing up the grill isn’t only for beef, chicken and pork – you can prepare a tasty recipe over an open flame while skipping the meat with Grilled Apple Portobello Burgers. Simply substitute beef with thick portobello mushrooms and naturally white Envy Apple slices that maintain their beauty while cooking so your finished “burgers” look as delicious as they taste.

These plant-forward meals featuring the uplifting aroma and flavor of apples offer an invitation to savor small moments around the table and can help you celebrate Lent and beyond with an ultimate apple experience that introduces your loved ones to new ways to rethink weekly favorites.

Find more meatless meal inspiration by visiting EnvyApple.com.

Seared Salmon with Apple Slaw

Servings: 4

4 portions boneless salmon

4 tablespoons Asian-style barbecue sauce

2 Envy Apples, cored and sliced into matchsticks or julienned

1 cup sliced or shredded red cabbage

1 cup sliced or shredded white cabbage

1 celery stick, finely sliced

1/2 red onion, finely sliced

1/4 cup mayonnaise

1 tablespoon chopped fresh herbs such as dill, parsley or cilantro

1 lime, juice and zest only

1 tablespoon toasted white sesame seeds, plus additional for garnish

1 teaspoon black sesame seeds, plus additional for garnish

Preheat oven to 375 F using grill or broil setting and line baking tray with cooking paper.

Arrange salmon portions on paper and spread barbecue sauce over each portion.

Bake 5-8 minutes, depending on thickness and size, or until just cooked in center and caramelized on top.

In bowl, combine sliced apple sticks, cabbage, celery and red onion slices; toss lightly.

In separate bowl, whisk mayonnaise, herbs, lime juice and lime zest.

Fold dressing and sesame seeds into slaw and toss together. Divide apple slaw between serving plates and top with glazed salmon. Sprinkle with extra sesame seeds.

Grilled Apple Portobello “Burgers”

1 Envy Apple

2 portobello mushrooms

1/4 cup olive oil, divided

1 tablespoon lemon juice

2 garlic cloves, minced

1 teaspoon oregano

1 teaspoon salt

1/2 cup herbed goat cheese

2 brioche buns

2 parge pieces butter lettuce

2 tablespoons mayonnaise

Heat grill to medium heat.

Slice apples horizontally into thick round wedges and remove seeds using fork.

Remove portobello stems.

In small bowl, combine 1/8 cup olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, oregano and salt.

Using basting brush, coat portobellos on both sides with olive oil mixture. Grill stem sides down 2 minutes then flip. Add goat cheese to portobellos and grill 2-3 minutes until cheese is melted. Remove from grill.

Use remaining olive oil to coat apple rounds. Grill apple rounds 1-2 minutes per side to lightly char.

Serve portobellos with apple rounds on brioche buns with lettuce and mayonnaise.

citizennewspapergroup.com

OFFICIAL NOTICE OF ELECTION, SPECIMEN BALLOTS, REFERENDA/ QUESTIONS OF PUBLIC POLICY & POLLING PLACES

Aviso oficial de elección, balota de muestra, referéndums / preguntas de política pública y lugares de votación

OFFICIAL NOTICE IS HERBY GIVEN, by

Karen A.

Yarbrough,

Cook County Clerk that the Primary Election will be held in Suburban Cook County on: que la elección primaria se llevará acabo en los suburbios de Cook County en:

Tuesday, March 19, 2024

Martes 19 de marzo del 2024

The Primary Election will be held in election precincts under the jurisdiction of the Election Division of the Cook County Clerk's Office.

La eleccion primaria tomara acabo en precintos de eleccion bajo la jurisdicción de la división de eleccion del Cook County Clerk's Office.

The Polls for said Primary Election will be open from 6 a.m. to 7 p.m. Locations are subject to change as necessity requires. Las urnas para tal eleccion primaria estarán abiertas de las 6 a.m. hasta las 7 p.m. Localidades están sujetas a cambio por necesidad.

At the Primary Election the voters will vote on the following contests and referenda questions. Referenda/Questions of Public Policy will be voted upon in those precincts of Cook County under the jurisdiction of the Cook County Clerk in which a Unit of Local Government has requested the County Clerk’s Office to place said referenda/questions of public policy on the ballot.

En la eleccion primaria los votantes votaran por los siguientes puestos y cuestiones de referendo. Referendos/Cuestiones de Política Pública serán votadas en aquellos precintos de Cook County bajo la jurisdicción del Cook County Clerk en la cual una unidad de gobierno local le ha pedido a la oficina del County Clerk que provea dicho referendo/cuestión de política pública en la boleta.

TOWNSHIP OF BLOOM

continued from previous page

OFFICIAL NOTICE OF POLLING PLACES

The voting will be conducted at the following polling places for each of the aforesaid election precincts selected by the Cook County Clerk.

Las votaciones tomaran lugar en cada de los antedichos precintos de elección seleccionados por el Cook County Clerk.

NOTE: The

(N) following the polling place address denotes that the polling place itself is not accessible to the handicapped although other parts of the facility may be accessible. An exemption has been granted by the State Board of Elections and signs are posted indicating if the whole building is accessible or if there is a special entrance.

NOTA: La letra (N) después de la dirección de un lugar de votación indica que el lugar de votación en sí mismo no es accesible para personas discapacitadas, aunque otras partes del edificio pueden ser accesibles. La Junta Electoral del Estado ha concedido una exención y hay carteles publicados que indican si todo el edificio es accesible o si hay una entrada especial.

Dated at Chicago, Illinois this 6th day of March 2024

Karen A. Yarbrough Cook County Clerk cookcountyclerkil.gov

(StatePoint) Becoming a financial planner offers both financial rewards and the chance to help others. Whether you’re a recent graduate exploring your career path or a mid-career professional seeking change, this growing profession may be the right fit for you. As more Americans recognize the value of partnering with a professional to chart their financial course, the demand for financial advisors is projected to grow by 13% through 2032, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Earning the right credentials, like

the CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLAN-

NER™ certification, can lead to a higher salary, increased job satisfaction and happier clients.

The Certification Process

The CFP® certification program generally takes 18 to 24 months to complete, depending on your time commitment, professional experience and educational background. The process involves completing coursework, passing an exam, accumulating experience and meeting ethics requirements. These rigorous standards make the process challenging. However, during the certification journey, you won’t be alone. CFP Board provides a variety of tools and resources to support your progress, including scholarships, an online forum that allows you to connect with peers and mentors, and a Career Center, where you can discover internships and jobs.

Benefits of Certification

While most financial planners can expect to pull in a high salary, CFP® certification can boost your income by 12%, according to the College for Financial Planning. It can also fast-track your career, enhance your job prospects and help you build a client roster. As a CFP® professional, you’ll bring a wealth of education and experience to the table, along with a commitment to CFP Board to act as a fiduciary for your clients. Clients can rest easy knowing you have agreed to put their best interests first.

More than 10,000 firms across the United States employ CFP® professionals because they know that the certification inspires trust, confidence and satisfaction with consumers. In fact, 84% of consumers who work with a CFP® professional say they are extremely or very satisfied.

Beyond greater job security and income, becoming a CFP® professional brings other benefits, including continuing professional development, the flexibility to balance your personal and professional life, and opportunities to give back to the community by providing pro bono services.

For all the reasons above, it’s no surprise that the majority of CFP® professionals are happy with the career moves that led them to where they are today. An astounding 93% of CFP® professionals say they are very satisfied with their decision to pursue CFP® certification, with most reporting that certification has directly contributed to their success and given them a competitive edge.

Next Steps

To get started on your new career today, visit getcfpcertified.org, where you can download a free guide to learn more about your next steps, whether you’re an established advisor seeking a competitive edge, a career-changer or student still exploring your options. If helping people create stable financial futures sounds appealing to you, explore a career as a financial planner and find out for yourself about the many benefits the right certification can bring.

HOME (StatePoint) Colder months have us spending more time indoors. Unfortunately, insects have the same idea, as they head inside to forage for food and seek shelter from the low temperatures.

“Those who want a bug-free home will have to be proactive year-round. Ants, certain fly species, such as winter crane flies, and other insects, are adapted to cold temperatures and can be very active during these cooler months,” says Daniel Perry, Zevo entomologist at Procter & Gamble. To prevent unwanted houseguests and banish bugs from your living spaces, check out these cold weather tips:

• Ventilate humid areas: As the weather gets colder, hot water is more in use in places like the bathroom or basement. These closed spaces can create humid environments where insects tend to gravitate. To attract fewer bugs, keep these areas well-ventilated.

• Prime your space for plants: If you have plants that you bring inside in the winter, properly prime and debug your home beforehand to prevent potential infestations, and check all your houseplants for unwanted insects before you bring them inside and every week afterwards.

• Tidy up: Cleanliness is the most common strategy for coping with bugxiety (fear of bugs) and there’s a good reason for it – it’s effective. Make sure you take out your garbage regularly, especially. Be sure not to leave food (perishables especially) out for excessive periods of time as that can attract insects.

• Get round-the-clock protection: Get the peace of mind that comes with 24/7 protection against flying insects. Zevo Flying Insect Traps use blue and UV light to continuously attract and trap insects to an adhesive back that you never have to touch. Place the traps in the kitchen, garage and other areas where doors and windows are frequently opened, and keep them plugged in to protect your home day and night from pesky flying insects.

• Fight back: Nip signs of a bug problem in the bud by dealing with it immediately. Spot a bug? Zevo Insect Killer Sprays kill bugs you see, targeting and shutting down biological pathways found only in bugs, not people or pets, making them effective and safe when used as directed.

“While bugxiety is very real for the majority of Americans, fortunately there are many strategies for keeping them out of the home that won’t disrupt your family,” says Perry.