Citizen Suburban Times Weekly 6-19-2024

New state laws taking effect Jan. 1

Illinois child tax credit: who gets it, how much is it?

Minimum wage hike, pets in public housing among new changes

Continued from page 1

Continued from page 1

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.

roughly $300 for low-income families

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. Other new laws include:

BY ANDREW ADAMS CAPITOL NEWS ILLINOIS AADAMS@CAPITOLNEWSILLINOIS.COM

In the final hours of their spring legislative session, Illinois lawmakers approved a tax credit of up to about $300 for families with young children.

The credit is available to Illinoisans with children under age 12 who qualify for the federal Earned Income Tax Credit, or EITC. Although it has exceptions, that credit is generally available to married couples earning up to about $60,000 and single people earning up to about $50,000, depending on the number of children they have.

For taxes on 2024 income, the tax credit will cap at just over $300 for tax filers with three or more children who meet certain income requirements. Taxpayers with two children face a cap of about $270 and taxpayers with one child face a cap of about $170.

The law allowing public housing

Darrell Garth

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.

The child tax credit equates to 20 percent of the state’s EITC, which allows Illinois taxpayers a credit equal to 20 percent of the federal EITC.

Starting in tax year 2025, the state’s child tax credit will double to 40 percent of the state EITC, meaning that it will max out at a bit over $600 for families with three children. Because the federal tax credit that determines its size is tied to inflation, the actual size of future years’ child tax credits is yet to be determined.

and cost about $12 million.

Proponents of the idea say that in addition to helping low-income families, programs like this help local economies.

“Every dollar we invest in the child tax credit is immediately spent locally,” Erion Malasi, the policy director for Economic Security for Illinois, told Capitol News Illinois.

CHART

Researchers at the Illinois Economic Policy Institute, a labor movement-affiliated think tank, found in a January report that child tax credits have a higher economic impact than cuts to corporate income taxes or to capital gains taxes.

That report also cited several research teams that found the temporary expansion to the federal child tax credit between 2021 and 2023 reduced child poverty in the U.S. by between 25 and 36 percent. That credit provided an additional $1,000 per child on top of an existing $2,000 credit, with increases for younger children.

State Sen. Omar Aquino, D-Chicago, sponsored legislation that would have created a $300 million child tax credit program that was more expansive than the version that passed.

Aquino told Capitol News Illinois he will be watching the rollout of the child tax credit to see if there is room for an “expansion” in future budget years or if there is a route for the credit to be automatically applied for qualifying taxpayers.

Darrell President / Publisher

President / Publisher

Darrell

Garth President / Publisher

Janice Garth

Janice Garth

Janice

In its first year, the program is expected to cost the state $50 million, with a cost of about $100 million in subsequent years.

The idea of a permanent child tax credit in Illinois has been floated for several years, with various proposals being put forward by legislators in the General Assembly as well as advocacy groups and think tanks.

Garth Sales Manager/ General Manager

Sales Manager/General Manager

Sales Manager/General Manager

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.

Gov. JB Pritzker pitched a child tax credit in his proposed budget earlier this year that was smaller than the version that passed in the final budget. It would have applied to children under three years old

The Illinois Department of Revenue is working on guidance for next year’s filing season and will provide information about how to claim the child tax credit on its website.

Capitol News Illinois is a nonprofit, nonpartisan news service covering state government. It is distributed to hundreds of print and broadcast outlets 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.

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 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.

Editorial:

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

Visit Chicago

Send press releases,newstips, calendar listingetc. to: editorial@cstweekly.com

Editorial: Send press releases, news tips, calendar listing etc. to: editorial@cstweekly.com

Editorial: Send press releases,newstips, calendar listingetc. to: editorial@cstweekly.com

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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 Licenses for people who voluntarily submit fingerprint records. It also allows the Illinois State Police to issue a combined FOID card and Concealed Carry License to qualified applicants, and it establishes a new Violent Crime Intelligence Task Force to take enforcement action against people with revoked FOID cards.

Olympia Fields, Ill. – Visit Chicago Southland (formerly Chicago Southland Convention & Visitors Bureau) has appointed Mary Patchin as their new President/CEO.

Southland Appoints Mary Patchin as new President/CEO

“The Visit Chicago Southland Board of Directors is proud to announce the promotion of Mary Patchin to the position of President/CEO. Her many years of hard work and dedication make this well-deserved,” said Visit Chicago Southland Board Chairman Richard Brink. “She is the perfect fit to carry on our mission along with moving Visit Chicago Southland into the future.”

Patchin was approved at Visit Chicago Southland’s quarterly board meeting on April 25. She’ll officially assume the role on July 1, as current President/CEO Jim Garrett will retire on June 30.

to the appropriate school support personnel.

Patchin has served for eight years as chair of Meet in Illinois, received the Certified Destination Management Executive Designation by Destinations International in 2012, was recognized by Collaborate magazine (now Connect) as “40 under 40 in the CVB World” in 2014 and was Smart Women’s Industry Leader of the Year in 2023. Patchin has been instrumental in coordinating the national sales tradeshow schedule, boosting sales goals, and bringing group business (meetings, sports, group tours, and social events) to the region. Patchin has also been involved in Visit Chicago Southland’s marketing, public relations, and finance departments.

“We are elated with Mary Patchin as the new President/ CEO,” said Garrett. “Her experience in tourism, commitment to Visit Chicago Southland, and knowledge and passion of the Chicago Southland region will serve her and the area well.”

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Classifieds call us at (773) 783-1251

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Student mental health: HB576 and SB1577 allow students in Illinois up to five excused absences to attend to their mental or behavioral 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

Official flags: HB605 requires state agencies and institutions to purchase Illinois and American flags that are made in the United States.

Patchin joined Visit Chicago Southland in 1999 upon graduating from Purdue University (Northwest) with a Bachelor in Science degree in Restaurant, Hotel, Institutional, and Tourism Management. During her tenure, she has risen from a sales associate to Director of Sales to Vice President of Sales and now to President/CEO.

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.

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.

“I am incredibly grateful and excited to have the opportunity to continue building on our sales and marketing programs for the Chicago Southland tourism industry,” said Patchin. “Initially, my primary goal will be to continue focusing on our three-year Strategic Plan, created in 2023, as well as continuing to build strong relationships with our communities, hospitality network, and clients, representing the meetings, sports, group tour, and leisure markets.”

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

In addition to her 25 years with Visit Chicago Southland,

Lemonade stands: SB119 prohib-

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

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.

Visit Chicago Southland is the official destination management and marketing organization for Chicago’s south and southwest suburbs. Visit Chicago Southland nationally markets and sells the Chicago Southland region as a destination for meetings and conventions, group tours, sports events and leisure travel. For more information, go to VisitChicagoSouthland.com.

(CAPITOL NEWS ILLINOIS ILLUSTRATION BY ANDREW ADAMS)

Tuskegee University Names Dr. Mark Brown as 10th President

(Black PR Wire) Tuskegee, Alabama -- The Tuskegee University Board of Trustees is pleased to announce the appointment of Dr. Mark Brown ‘86 as the university’s 10th president and chief executive officer. Dr Brown’s selection is the first time in Tuskegee’s nearly 143-year history that an alum will lead the university. He will begin his tenure on July 1.

The Board of Trustees approved the retired Air Force Major General’s nomination after several talented leaders stepped forward to succeed Dr. Charlotte P. Morris, the university’s ninth president.

The university announced the retirement of Dr. Morris last fall after almost 40 years of service. At that time, the search firm Storbeck developed a committee of university representatives at all levels – Trustees, faculty, staff, alums, and students – to develop the confidential process to review candidate applications and participate in interviews.

“The Board of Trustees conducted a thorough search process, considering candidates from across the nation, and was impressed by Dr. Brown’s vision, expertise, and passion for higher education,” said Norma Clayton, Chair of the Tuskegee Board of Trustees.

“Working with the Board, we are confident that he will provide a clear vision, direction, strong leadership, and guidance to evolve and grow the university.”

Dr. Brown’s extensive executive experience includes the Harvard University Kennedy School of Government, the University of Virginia Darden School of Business, and the Robert and Edith Broad Academy for Urban School Superintendents, now hosted at the Yale School of Management.

An educational leader

After retiring from the Air Force with 32 years of service, Dr. Brown expanded his educational service as the chief operating officer of the U.S. Department of Education Office of Federal Student Aid, which had a lending portfolio of $1.7 trillion equivalent to that of the nation’s five largest consumer lending banks. As COO, he was responsible for all of the nation’s Title IV funding.

Most recently, he has served as president and chief executive officer of the Student Freedom Initiative based in Washington, D.C. The Student Freedom Initiative is the vision of billionaire philanthropist Robert F. Smith after his historic gift to eliminate the student loan debt of the Morehouse College class of 2019.

As the first President and Chief Executive Officer, he and his staff provide four components to 63 HBCUs, which also includes two Tribal Colleges and Universities and Minority Serving Institutions. The capabilities include agreements to fund any educational attendance requirements beyond what is paid for through Federal programs, such as Pell Grants, Work-Study, and Federal Student Loans. SFI is also focused on elevating the communities around its school by providing critical resources such as access to highspeed broadband, cybersecurity upgrades, affordable living spaces and solar energy.

Dr. Brown, who received his bachelor’s from Tuskegee in accounting, earned a Master’s Degree in Public Administration from Troy University, a Master’s of Strategic Studies from the Air Command and Staff College, a Master’s in National Security Strategy from the National War College, and his doctorate in Education from Baylor University. His experience in education is varied and distinguished.

While a Major General in the Air Force, Dr. Brown served as Deputy Commander of Air Education and Training Command, Joint Base San Antonio-Randolph, Texas. AETC recruits, trains, and educates Air Force personnel. His command included the Air Force Recruiting Service, two numbered Air Forces, and two fully accredited graduate and doctoral degree-granting universities: Air University and the Air Force Institute of Technology. AETC operates more than 1,400 trainer, fighter, and mobility aircraft, 23 wings, 10 bases, and five geographically separated groups. The command trains more than 293,000 Airmen annually, with approximately 60,000 active-duty, Reserve, Guard, civilian, and contractor personnel.

“I am grateful and humbled by the Board of Trustees, Faculty, Alumni, Students, Community Leaders, and all of Mother Tuskegee for the opportunity to return home to lead our University into the second quarter of the 21st Century,” said Dr. Brown. “Thanks to the leadership of Dr. Morris, I am convinced that Tuskegee is well positioned to continue its global impact by producing students ready for leadership in our rapidly changing world, yet grounded in the journey of our forefathers. Gwen and I can’t wait to get started!”

Building a distinguished career

Dr. Brown was commissioned through the Tuskegee University Air Force ROTC program in 1986. He served in comptroller, command, and staff positions at all U.S. Department of Defense levels, including two assignments as congressional liaison to the United States House of Representatives.

His global experience includes serving in the Philippines, Spain, England, Turkey and Iraq. In addition, he has commanded four times at ascending levels, deploying in support of operation Provide Comfort, and served as the Assistant Executive Officer for the 17th Air Force Chief of Staff. He was also the Financial Management Senior Military Assistant in the Office of the Secretary of Defense and Chief Financial Officer for Air Force Materiel Command, responsible for a portfolio greater than $60 billion, 38 percent of the Air Force budget.

Black Voters Matter Is Proud to Be A First-Time Sponsor of the Tom Joyner Fantastic Voyage

(Black PR Wire) GEORGIA — Black Voters Matter (BVM) is proud to join forces with Urban One, the nation’s largest Blackowned multi-media company to inform and empower listeners about the importance of the 2024 election and the impact they will have on Black and marginalized communities. This opportunity will provide some 22 million listeners with access to relevant and timely voter information, a digital resource page, and engaging discourse on various social and racial justice topics across multiple platforms including Reach Media, Radio One, and the Urban One podcast network, in addition to on-site activations including this year’s Tom Joyner Fantastic Voyage and much more.

BVM is proud to be a first-time sponsor of the 2024 Tom Joyner Fantastic Voyage to provide scholarships for deserving students at Historically Black Colleges and Universities. This annual cruise is made possible by the Tom Joyner Foundation and for the past 23 years has been an integral part of helping students reach their educational goals. In a time when HBCUs are being severely underfunded, BVM recognizes the need to be proactive in our efforts to provide resources to Black institutions that support our people and provide opportunities for advancement through education.

This ultimate party with a purpose showcases black excellence through art and culture by uplifting visual artists, musicians, comedians, culinary artists, Black-owned businesses and more. This year’s cruise featured around-the-clock activities including empowerment seminars, health and wellness activities, an African American art auction, nightly theme parties, and concerts featuring iconic acts like Earth, Wind & Fire, Chaka Kahn, Kirk Franklin, Bobby Brown, Tank, Ashanti, JaRule, and Method Man & Redman.

In addition, BVM hosted an up close and personal conversation on building power in our communities by using voting as a tool to change policies that harm Black and marginalized groups the most. The “Sailing Toward Change” town hall provided an opportunity for participants to voice their concerns on local and national issues and hear effective proven solutions from trusted messengers on ways to combat voter apathy.

“We are delighted to work with Black Voters Matter, a firsttime sponsor of the Tom Joyner Fantastic Voyage, which yielded significant success. Participants in the Voyage not only explored avenues to contribute to their local communities but also gained insights into the initiatives championed by Black Voters Matter. Urban One as the largest Black Owned and targeted multimedia company provides the perfect platform for BVM messaging and mission. We are excited to provide a platform for them to continue their work to foster constructive change and encouraging individuals to take an active role in our communities.” Said, Samuel Tatum, VP of Integrated Marketing and Partnerships at Urban One.

“We are excited to work with Urban One during this critical election year as we continue to Fight Back against misinformation and disinformation targeting Black voters.” Said Cliff Albright, Co-founder and Executive Director of Black Voters Matter. “Black radio remains one of the most effective ways to keep our communities informed and engaged in the political process. The Fantastic Voyage was just the beginning. The insights we gained from Black voters will continue to fuel our 2024 campaign strategy, ensuring we’re fighting for the issues that matter most to our communities.”

For more information on BVM and ways to get involved in the movement to build power in Black communities visit our website at www.blackvotersmatterfund.org or follow on all social media at @BlackVotersMtr.

BLACKPRWIRE

BLACKPRWIRE

HIGHGATE UNVEILS ROMER HOUSE WAIKĪKĪ

HONOLULU, PRNewswire -- The summer of adulting has dawned in paradise with full permission and zero apologies as Highgate opens Romer House Waikīkī. Offering 179 rooms, O’ahu’s sole adults-only hotel is a perfect Waikīkī hideaway for guests looking to connect with Hawai’i’s vibrant artistic community and culture. The expansive, residential-like lobby has a seamless discovery of Waikīkī’s newest restaurant and bar, IZAKAYA 855-ALOHA, a celebration of Japanese traditions, Hawaiian flavors, and good-old-fashioned analog connections; a concept envisioned by TableOne Hospitality and acclaimed restaurateur Patric Yumul. Romer House Waikīkī is anchored in an authentic neighborhood experience with unprecedented access to local-favorites not easily found in the traditional travelogs. With summer rates starting at $195 per night, travelers are invited to explore the hidden gems of Waikīkī and beyond, all with a modern adult edge. @ romerhousewaikiki.

“Highgate is committed to boldly expanding its hospitality portfolio to support every guest - be it kama’aina or visitor - curating an experience truly aligned with their interests, needs and spend,” said President of Highgate Hawaii Kelly Sanders. “Romer House Waikīkī serves as an extension of Hawaii’s community, culture and above all, connection. Its location in the heart of Waikiki, with accessibility to the neighborhood’s vibrancy, appeals to this thriving leisure market. Highgate is thrilled to lead this new standard of affluence on Oahu.”

and more.”

IZAKAYA 855-ALOHA, RESTAURANT & BAR

At the heart of Romer House is a reimagined Izakaya from TableOne Hospitality, inspired by the nostalgia of Waikīkī’s famed (and nearly obsolete) sky-blue pay phones and their invitation to dial 1-855-ALOHA-00. A place to gather and connect, the new restaurant and bar offers charming and energetic Japanese hospitality celebrating the diverse cultures of Hawai’i across its offerings.

The newly reimagined 415 N hua Street, Romer House Waikīkī, is the sister hotel to its neighboring hotel, Romer Waikīkī at the Ambassador, which offers experiences for all travelers. Romer House flaunts distinctive Mid-Century architectural sensibilities that Waikīkī is renowned for, with interiors by IndiDesign and a curated local art collection that captures the spirit of its surroundings. Guests will enjoy a “key to the neighborhood” that unlocks special perks around the island, plus distinctive lifestyle partnerships; a renewing wellness series; ever-playful amenities and retail; the hottest dining reservation in town; and an urban pool retreat for social relaxation and daylong cocktail culture… all sans-kids.

“Romer House Waikīkī embodies LUCID’s unique ability to maximize every inch of a redevelopment to create spaces and experiences that are highly relevant and memorable for our guests,” said Paul McElroy, EVP of LUCID, Highgate’s inhouse design and construction studio. “Because Romer Hotels take shape around the people, ideas, sights and sounds that make a neighborhood unique, we took great inspiration from the surrounding area in order to methodically develop an urban oasis complete with a brand-new pool deck, expanded guest rooms, exciting F&B venues

IZAKAYA 855-ALOHA is led by award-winning, Sendai-born Chef and Partner Shotaro ``Sho’’ Kamio, who has created an imaginative and approachable menu with Executive Chef Daniel No. Together, they blend the ingenuity of Japan’s culinary precision and comfort with an epicurean exploration of Hawai’i’s finest local ingredients. Home to a crossroads of cultures, IZAKAYA 855-ALOHA welcomes visitors and locals alike to eat, drink and stay late. An effervescent space, designed by IndiDesign, features original art by local illustrator Solario and photography by Joe Rovegno that all pay homage to the iconic payphone. Located in the lobby of Romer House, IZAKAYA 855-ALOHA is open daily for dinner, with pau hana at 4:00PM, and its first seating at 5:00PM. Its expansive bar is one of Waikīkī’s only late-night social spots, with drinks and bites flowing well past sleepy standards. Valet available and share-ride services encouraged. Dial in: @855aloha | www.izakaya855aloha.com | OpenTable

“When we started TableOne Hospitality, I followed the path Chef Michael and I created at MINA Group, making a commitment to create dimensional culinary experiences, placing a high priority on developing distinctive locales, each committed to celebrating a dedicated cuisine and culture that honored its sense of place. With elevated interiors, warmth of service and exceptional standards of culinary excellence, IZAKAYA 855-ALOHA embodies the heart of that founding vision and is a true extension of the Romer neighborhood experiential philosophy,” said Patric Yumul, CEO of TableOne Hospitality. THE BACKYARD by 855-ALOHA

On the second floor The Backyard pool and bar provide a relaxing social hub without splashzone distractions. Offering bites and bentos from IZAKAYA 855-ALOHA, daylong dining and nostalgic cocktails, Romer House keeps the good times flowing. An oasis of softly upholstered cabana daybeds, lounge vignettes and a full-service bar invite guests to unwind in a serene wade pool surrounded by native plantlife and a custom mural inspired by Waikīkī’s original fishponds by Hawaiian artist Cory Kamehanaokal Holt Taum. For more information, visit www.tableonehospitality.com.

Staying Safe During Summer Vacations

MISSION, Kan., PRNewswire -- (Family Features) From staycations and road trips to Caribbean getaways and coastal cruises, summertime offers the chance to escape and unwind with a much needed (and deserved) vacation. However, for people living with health conditions like heart disease or stroke, leaving home can pose special challenges.

As travel season takes shape, the experts at the American Heart Association – celebrating 100 years of lifesaving service as the world’s leading nonprofit organization focused on heart and brain health for all – recommends a few important tips to ease on-the-go woes.

“As we look forward to summer, many people will be traveling to spend treasured time with family and friends, or maybe just to enjoy some relaxation on the beach,” said Gladys Velarde, M.D., FAHA, professor of medicine and national volunteer with the American Heart Association. “It’s not always that simple for people who have chronic health conditions that require multiple medications or special medical equipment. There are also considerations for how to maintain your health and not put yourself at increased risk.”

Velarde said that doesn’t mean travel is off limits if you have a chronic health condition. A little planning and preparation can reduce stress and prepare you for your next big adventure.

Check In with Your Health Care Provider

Speak with your primary care physician or specialist about your travel plans and any special considerations related to your health. He or she can offer guidance on any restrictions or precautions you should keep in mind. Carry a list of all medications, including dosages and pharmacy information. Also consider carrying a copy of key medical records and a list of phone numbers, including your doctors and emergency contacts.

Manage Your Medications

Ensure medications are clearly labeled and that you’ve packed enough to last the entire trip. If you’re traveling across time zones, enlist your health care provider to help adjust medication schedules. Some medications require refrigeration; research how to pack them appropriately for airport security and make sure you’ll have a refrigerator in your lodging.

Plan for Transportation

Whether you’re traveling by plane, bus, train, cruise ship or other means, it’s paramount to plan ahead for special medical equipment. For example, if you use a wheelchair, walker or other assistance for getting around, you may need to check in with the travel company to find out how to properly transport your devices.

Master the Airport

During this especially busy travel season, planning ahead can make the airport experience easier. If you have a pacemaker or implantable cardioverter-defibrillator, you may need to go through a special security screening. Walking through a crowded terminal can take its toll, so consider requesting a wheelchair or courtesy cart to get to your gate when booking your ticket.

Long flights may increase your risk for blood clots, including deep vein thrombosis and pulmonary embolism. Consider wearing compression socks and walk around the cabin while it’s safe and allowed to help improve your circulation.

Know the Signs

While it’s always important to know the signs of heart attack, stroke or cardiac arrest, it’s particularly critical while away from home. If you or someone you’re with experience symptoms, call 911. Many airports even offer kiosks where you can learn Hands-Only CPR while waiting for your flight.

“Every individual’s condition is unique, and you’ll want to tailor your travel plans to your specific needs,” Velarde said. “By taking a little time now to plan and prepare, your vacation can be just what the doctor ordered to help you unwind and recharge.”

Learn more about healthy traveling at Heart.org.

Romer House Waikīkī

ATTORNEY GENERAL RAOUL CHARGES COOK COUNTY WOMAN OVER FRAUDULENT

UNEMPLOYMENT ASSISTANCE CLAIMS, PPP LOANS

“Unemployment assistance and Paycheck Protection Program Loans were a lifeline for many Illinois residents and small businesses, which sustained so many of our communities when we needed them the most during the pandemic,” Raoul said.

Chicago – Attorney General Kwame Raoul today charged a Cook County woman who allegedly received thousands of dollars from multiple fraudulent COVID-19 unemployment assistance claims and a Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loan application for a business that did not exist.

The Attorney General’s office charged Tina Tzoumas, 38 of Chicago, in Cook County Circuit Court with one count of theft of government property more than $10,000 but less than $100,000, a Class 1 felony punishable by up to 15 years in prison; one count of identity theft more than $10,000 but less than $100,000, a Class 1 felony punishable by up to 15 years in prison; one count of identity theft, a Class 2 felony punishable by up to seven years in prison; one count of financial institution fraud more than $10,000 but less than $100,000, a Class 2 felony punishable by up to seven years in prison; one count of loan fraud more than $10,000 but less than $100,000, a Class 2 felony punishable by up to seven years in prison; one count of state benefits fraud, a Class 3 felony punishable by up to five years in prison; two counts of

forgery, both Class 3 felonies punishable by up to five years in prison; one count of wire fraud, a Class 3 felony punishable by up to five years in prison; one count of possession of methamphetamine, a Class 3 felony punishable by up to five years in prison; and one count of possession of a controlled substance, a Class 4 felony punishable by up to three years in prison.

Sentences are ultimately determined by the court. Tzoumas’ next court date is July 24.

“Unemployment assistance and Paycheck Protection Program Loans were a lifeline for many Illinois residents and small businesses, which sustained so many of our communities when we needed them the most during the pandemic,” Raoul said. “I am committed to holding accountable those who used the pandemic to steal from their communities and the state of Illinois.”

Raoul’s office alleges that between June 2020 and June 2021, Tzoumas submitted multiple COVID-19 unemployment assistance claims that were determined to be fraudulent. Tzoumas allegedly submitted these claims using other individuals’ personal identifying information and

received thousands of dollars in Illinois Department of Employment Security (IDES) funds.

“The lengths to which individuals will go to take advantage of a crisis situation, exploit critical assistance, and cheat vital resources from individuals who legitimately need them during their toughest days is nothing short of contemptible,” said Illinois Department of Employment Security Director Ray Marchiori. “The integrity of the unemployment insurance program and the safeguarding of benefits is of the utmost importance. IDES is proud of the continued partnership with the Attorney General’s office and the tireless work they’ve done to bring charges against these individuals.”

Tzoumas also allegedly used her own information to submit a fraudulent Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loan application and received thousands of dollars for a business that did not exist.

The public is reminded that the defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

Assistant Attorney General Samantha Cain will prosecute the case for Raoul’s Special Prosecutions Bureau.

SHEDD AQUARIUM TARGETS INEQUITY IN ENVIRONMENTAL EDUCATION THROUGH NEW INVESTMENTS AND PROGRAMS

CHICAGO – Shedd Aquarium is sharing new details on transformative investments to its historic home, new programs and community partnerships designed to shape a more equitable future for environmental education in Chicago. Fueled by the aquarium’s Centennial Commitment, Shedd will reach 1.8 million youth across all 77 community areas by 2030 with hands-on, high-quality science learning that will happen at the aquarium, in neighborhoods, in classrooms and out in nature. The aquarium will instill environmental literacy and agency in young people across the city, with programs that activate aquatic science and restore connections to nature through animals.

“Every young person in Chicago should experience the wonder of the aquatic world barrier-free – everything from planting native seedlings along the shores of Lake Michigan to kayaking the Chicago River or counting the suckers on an octopus right here at Shedd Aquarium,” said Lisa Junkin-Lopez, Vice President of Learning & Community at Shedd Aquarium. “By expanding access to environmental education, we can empower Chicago’s next generation to be the changemakers for tomorrow’s blue futures.”

Anchoring On-site Learning

Shedd Aquarium already serves as a vital access point to nature and the aquatic world for millions of guests a year, but current capacity and spaces have limited the delivery of facilitated learning experiences for many of those guests – including school groups. Now, the aquarium is substantially evolving and expanding its learning spaces and galleries, and launching a suite of new programs to provide more of those valuable and formative environmental education opportunities to every learner and curious guest who visits the aquari-

um.

The aquarium will soon break ground on a new home for learning just steps away from Shedd’s galleries. The newly designated Morgridge Family Lakeside Learning Studios, opening in 2026, will feature flexible, buzzing classrooms that will be home to animal encounters and aquatic investigations. On any given day, students could be getting eye to eye with a yellow-footed tortoise, chatting virtually with Shedd researchers from the Caribbean, Great Lakes or Latin America, building native bug hotels to house native bees and monarch butterflies, and more.

Made possible in part by a $10 million donation from the Morgridge Family Foundation, the Morgridge Family Lakeside Learning Studios will help the aquarium say yes to more school groups and reach up to 50,000 more students annually with deeper science learning programs.

“As an organization focused on transforming communities, acting on conservation and empowering youth, when we saw the opportunity and the impact that Shedd Aquarium stood to make for so many young people here in Chicago and our global conservationists, we were inspired to act,” said Carrie Morgridge, co-founder of the Morgridge Family Foundation. “We are immensely proud of this gift to Shedd, which will be felt for generations to come.”

At the same time, the aquarium is reimagining new, immersive, bilingual and science-forward galleries that will offer novel ways to explore and commune with aquatic biodiversity. All parts of Shedd’s Experience Evolution, two of those new exhibits – Wonder of Water and Amazon Rising – are expected to open later this year.

“Shedd Aquarium is one of our District’s amazing and longstanding community partners,” said CPS CEO Pedro Martinez. “We are thrilled by the aquarium’s dedication to welcoming more CPS students each year for hands-on learning and awe-inspiring exhibits and events. These new investments and this important focus on environmental education will only continue to enhance opportunities and education for our students.”

Activating an Off-site Learning Ecosystem

Mirroring its on-site learning evolution, Shedd Aquarium is partnering with schools and community groups to reimagine programming that bridges the growing nature gap and brings high-quality environmental education to Chicago youth, teachers, families and community leaders.

More than 25 programs for K-12th grade students, taking place in and out of school, pair nature-based experiences with hands-on science learning to increase compassion for wildlife develop important skills like collaboration and communication, and build self-efficacy to use their voices and hands as changemakers. Youth will test water in local lagoons and compare them to habitats at Shedd, practice field survey techniques to identify insects and plant native seedlings to support restoration efforts or campaign local restaurants to reduce their plastic waste.

By deepening engagement with Chicago youth through expanded touchpoints and unique school and community partnerships, Shedd will be a more constant, supportive presence in the lives of learners, centering equity in who these programs reach as well

Continue on Page 7

ILLUMINARIUM DEBUTING AT CHICAGO’S NAVY PIER THIS SUMMER

CHICAGO – Think VR without the glasses. Illuminarium, a breakthrough global experiential entertainment company created by worldwide leaders in cinematic immersion, theatrical design, and venue operations, is officially headed to Chicago’s iconic Navy Pier this summer. Set to open its doors on Friday, June 28, the immersive venue will debut with two breathtaking experiences: WILD: A Safari Experience and SPACE: A Journey to the Moon and Beyond. Known as “the place that can take you anyplace,” the awe-inspiring 32,000 square-foot entertainment venue will be located within the former Crystal Gardens venue, marking the company’s fifth Illuminarium location following Las Vegas, Atlanta, Toronto, and Macau, China.

“We are elated the time is officially here for us to introduce Chicago to what we hope will be an unforgettable adventure,” said Alan Greenberg, CEO of Illuminarium Experiences. “Illuminarium is a totally transportive experience with some of the most amazing, inspiring spectacles from around the world and beyond, and we hope audiences of all ages will come to Navy Pier to check us out and leave feeling inspired and wanting more.”

Using cutting-edge, innovative technologies, Illuminarium’s visually stunning venue will transport locals and visitors of all ages to places they previously could only dream of experiencing. By enabling audiences to see, hear, and even personally affect an experience, Illuminarium will place patrons “inside” the narrative using techniques from traditional motion picture production and virtual reality, and pair it with interactive features that mimic that of the real world, all without wearable hardware.

WILD: A Safari Experience will provide attendees with an idyllic journey through the vast beauty and splendor of Africa, fully immersing visitors in the authentic sounds and scenes of an extraordinary safari experience, allowing them to come face-to-face with some of the world’s most majestic animals in their natural habitats.

SPACE: A Journey to the Moon and Beyond will take patrons out of this world and onto a mind-blowing journey through space and time. Audiences will have the opportunity to experience firsthand what it is like to walk on the surface of the Moon, step inside a nebula, or see the remarkable James Webb Space Telescope unfurl in space, all while being completely enveloped in the beauty of our galaxies and Solar System.

The above spectacles are not seated showings, but instead, patrons are given the opportunity to walk through the space at their leisure. Designed to entertain ages 3 to 103, visitors will have the opportunity to choose their own adventure, as both experiences will be played each day. Illuminarium Experiences typically take about 45 to 60 minutes. Tickets to Illuminarium begin at $34.99 for adults and $24.99 for children, plus taxes and fees

For more information on Illuminarium @ Navy Pier or to plan ahead and purchase tickets today, please visit illuminarium.com/chicago. Once open, Illuminarium will also play host to show-stopping private events including birthdays, weddings and corporate functions, adding a stunning visual setting for special occasions of all types.

Visitors may join the conversation on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok.

SHEDD

AQUARIUM Continued From Page 7

as the content and engagement methods within the learning environment.

“Shedd Aquarium has been a fantastic partner in co-creating out-of-school environmental education programs that are relevant to the learners themselves and the communities they represent,” said Natasha Smith-Walker, executive director of Project Exploration. “The work of the aquarium fits in perfectly with our efforts to build youth-science pathways and skills for youth in Chicago’s westside neighborhoods.”

Centering Equity in Science Learning

Located along the shores of Lake Michigan, in the country’s third largest city, Shedd recognizes that longstanding inequities mean young people do not enjoy equal access to nature and its many benefits.

In response, Shedd’s investments and environmental education programs are intentionally focused on better serving communities in Chicago’s south and west side neighborhoods, where communities tend to live farther from nature and bear disproportionate environmental burdens.

“Historically, not all Chicagoans have benefitted from everything our city has to offer,” said Alderman Lamont Robinson. “I am proud to have institutions like Shedd Aquarium in the 4th Ward who are taking steps to correct those disparities and give all Chicago students meaningful opportunities to learn about and be inspired by the world around them.”

By rooting environmental education programs in the neighborhoods where youth live, learn and play, the aquarium can leverage existing community resources and assets to make science learning easier to access and more personally relevant. These community connections also help the aquarium adjust the content, location and instructions based on the specific needs of the individual learners and what they need to succeed – informed by those who know them best.

Alongside the generous donation by the Morgridge Family Foundation, transformational support for Shedd Aquarium’s environmental education spaces and programs has been provided by the Haerther Trust and the Pepper Family Foundation. Most recently, lead contributions have also been generously provided by Bank of America, Dana Waud, and The Montgomery Foundation.

Big O Holdings LLC and Sony Music Publishing Announce New Partnership To Administer Otis Redding Catalog

(Black PR Wire) Macon, GA – The heirs to the Estate of Otis Redding Jr., doing business as Big O Holdings LLC, has entered into an administration agreement with Sony Music Publishing covering Redding’s vast music catalog in the U.S.

Otis Redding, a prolific songwriter, and producer, is considered one of the most influential performers in the history of American popular music and a trailblazer in soul and rhythm & blues music due to his gospel-inspired, stylistic singing. Known as “The King of Soul,” he released his debut album, “Pain In My Heart” in 1964 which produced his first hit single, “These Arms of Mine.” The song reached No. 20 on the R&B charts, and was included on several soundtracks, and most prominently in the movie Dirty Dancing.

Redding is known for other chart-topping hits including, “Respect,” (also a top hit for Aretha Franklin), “Try A Little Tenderness” and “Hard To Handle,” covered by the Black Crowes.

Prior to his untimely death, Redding co-wrote, with Steve Cropper, “(Sittin’ On) The Dock Of The Bay” which was released posthumously in 1968 following his death on December 10, 1967. The song

hit No.1 on the Pop and R&B charts and received two Grammy Awards in 1969.

A native of Macon, Georgia, Redding’s music continues to influence pop-culture and musicians in all genres as evidenced by artists including The Rolling Stones, Led Zeppelin, Jay-Z and Willie Nelson. He was posthumously inducted into the Rock and Roll

Hall of Fame in 1989, the Songwriters Hall of Fame in 1994 and honored with a Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award in 1999.

“For over 50 years I have been diligent to make sure Otis’ legacy remains relevant and recognizable around the world. I feel that the Sony Music Publishing team can assist my family in this never-ending effort”, stated Mrs. Zelma Redding.

“As one of the most significant songwriters of our lifetime, Otis Redding remains an American treasure,”

commented Sony Music Publishing Chairman/ CEO Jon Platt. “Otis’ songs have shaped the cultural landscape across genres and generations, and it is a privilege to partner with the Redding family as stateside custodians of this singular music catalog.”

“Otis Redding was a rare talent – his songs are unmistakably brilliant, and their enduring impact remains strong to this day. We are honored to join forces with the Redding family to represent his catalog and strengthen his legacy as one of the most iconic songwriters in American history,” stated Sony Music Publishing President, Global Chief Marketing Officer Brian Monaco.

The 2024 ESSENCE Festival of Culture™ Celebrates 30 Years of Loving Us

(Black PR Wire) NEW ORLEANS -- (BUSINESS WIRE) -- Legacy will take center stage as the 2024 ESSENCE Festival of Culture™ presented by Coca-Cola® will be like no other, when it makes its return to the festival’s forever home of New Orleans from July 4-7, 2024. This year’s festival will celebrate 30-years of loving us with a four-day event that has spanned generations, both in-person and virtually. To commemorate the three decades of the ESSENCE Festival of Culture™ presented by Coca-Cola® the evening concert series at the Caesar’s Superdome will be rooted in legacy and evolution, to represent the festival’s journey throughout its rich history to today. The 30th birthday celebration includes a star-studded line-up with headlining performances from entertainers that have graced the stage over the years, including USHER in a special one-night only performance of the iconic album that turned 20 this year, Confessions, global icon Janet Jackson, 3-time Grammy-Award winner Victoria Monét, a milestone celebration with Birdman & Friends Presents 30 Years of Cash Money Millionaires and 8-time ESSENCE Festival vet, Charlie Wilson. The four-day event will close with the return of the all-white party and a Special Tribute to Frankie Beverly & Maze and passing of the torch moment, curated by Grammy-Award winning producer & songwriter, Bryan-Michael Cox. Attendees, fans and festival goers, are invited to join the festivities as we look at the past, present and future of the festival, originally birthed as a one-time-only event to celebrate the 25th anniversary of ESSENCE Magazine. The 2024 ESSENCE Festival of Culture™ presented by Coca-Cola® Evening Concert Series will be hosted by Keke Palmer, Pretty Vee, Big Tigger, Punkie Johnson and Kenny Burns with special DJ sets from Raj Smoove, DJ Clark Kent and DJ Beverly Bond.

at the Ernest N. Morial Convention Center! This year, fans can expect the return of festival-favorites such as the ESSENCE Food & Wine Festival™, BEAUTYCON™: @ESSENCEFEST Edition, AFROPUNK BLKTOPIA™, ESSENCE Film Festival® by ESSENCE STUDIOS™, ESSENCE Stage™, SOKO MRKT™ by ESSENCE®, ESSENCE Authors™, ESSENCE® GU® CREATORS HOUSE, GBEF® HQ and more. The Suede: Men’s Experience™ (formerly known as In His Zone), will be a place centered around the Black man to encourage fun, freedom and fellowship in a collegial atmosphere exploring topics such as money, fatherhood, creativity, health, travel, fashion and sports. For this monumental occasion, the festival will introduce new experiences such as the ESSENCE Hollywood House™, which will be a space for networking, mentoring, skills-building, and increasing the visibility of Black people in entertainment spaces.

As the festival has evolved and expanded from its origin as solely a music festival in 1994, so have the vast daytime experiences offered to attendees each year

Music legends will hit the evening stage at the 2024 ESSENCE Festival of Culture™ presented by Coca-Cola® to celebrate the annual festival that has spanned generations - with many of these artists gracing the stage over their careers. At age 19, USHER gave his first show-stopping performance on the ESSENCE Festival stage in 1998 and as he celebrates 20 years of the musical masterpiece that is Confessions, Mr. Raymond returns to give a one-night only, never-before-seen show. Across the festival’s 30-years, the incomparable Frankie Beverly & Maze has given a showstopping closing performance and as we commemorate this year’s festival, ESSENCE will give flowers to the entertainers who started the all-white Sunday-night tradition and a special passing of the torch presentation by Mr. Beverly. Global icon Janet Jackson returns to the festival stage, following her 2022 performance, which remains one of the highest-grossing nights in the festival’s history. R&B icon Charlie Wilson will take the stage to perform his undeniable melodies and generation-defining songs, alongside some special friends.

For 30 years, New Orleans has and will continue to be the cultural backdrop of the ESSENCE Festival of Culture™ presented by Coca-Cola® and like the 30-years since the festival’s inception, 2024 also marks the three-decade milestone of New Orleans-own Cash Money. Birdman & Friends Presents 30 Years of Cash Money Millionaires will bring a special performance to our shared, forever home of the Crescent City, alongside some of our favorite hometown artists and more. Grammy-nominated musical group, Tank and The Bangas, continues the New Orleans takeover with a curated performance alongside special guests & New Orleans natives, Teedra Moses, HaSizzle and Dawn Richard. Victoria Monét joins the 2024 ESSENCE Festival of Culture™ presented by Coca-Cola® line-up for a co-headlining and inaugural performance on the legacy stage that will for sure be a showstopper! ESSENCE couldn’t celebrate a milestone birthday party without one of the best DJs of the culture, D-Nice, who will return to the Superdome stage for a special presentation of his global sensation, Club Quarantine Live. The performance will feature icons of hip hop, latin jazz funk, R&B and soca including Method Man, Sheila E., Big Boi, Donell Jones, Tweet, Machel Montano and Lloyd. Special curated performances each night include Grammy-winning band members, The Roots & Friends featuring Ari Lennox, Mickey Guyton and special guest, T. Pain; and the reunion of R&B supergroup, TGT (Tyrese, Ginuwine & Tank). Additional evening performers include Nigerian singer & songwriter Ayra Starr, R&B songstresses SWV, award-winning hip-hop artist Busta Rhymes, R&B singer Jacquees and more to be announced!

The 2024 ESSENCE Festival of Culture™ is presented by Coca-Cola® and major partners, AT&T, L’Oréal Groupe, McDonald’s USA, and Target Corporation. Stay tuned for all official updates for this year’s festival at ESSENCEFestival.com and join the conversation on social at @ESSENCEFest on X, Facebook, and Instagram. Tickets are now available on the festival’s website and for those who are not able to attend in-person, please tune-in to ESSENCE.com and ESSENCEFestival.com for a virtual viewing experience.

Arron Saxe, Walter Jones, Derek Crownover, Jarred Andrews, Dexter Redding (rear center) Justin Andrews, Zelma Redding, Karla Redding-Andrews, Brian Monaco, Liz Lewis, Jon Platt. Sony Music Publishing

U.S. Department of Education Announces Jeremy Singer as FAFSA Executive Advisor in the Office of Federal Student Aid

The U.S. Department of Education (Department) announced today Jeremy Singer as FAFSA Executive Advisor in the office of Federal Student Aid (FSA) to lead the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA®) overall strategy and accelerate technology innovation to further enhance FSA’s technical and operational capabilities.

FAFSA Executive Advisor

The Department is committed to carrying out transformational changes at FSA, including continuing making improvements to the Better FAFSA, and to ensure a smooth launch and successful 2025-26 FAFSA season. The Department is bringing on Jeremy Singer, a technology solutions expert, to help FSA deliver the Better FAFSA and improved experience for students and families.

Singer is taking temporary leave from his role as President of College Board to join the Department. He will lead FSA’s overall strategy on the 2025-26 FAFSA form, working closely with the Department’s leadership and the FAFSA implementation team to strengthen internal systems and processes, bolster technical capabilities, and drive innovation to help ensure optimal performance leading to the launch of the 2025-26 FAFSA form.

“Jeremy brings deep experience having successfully led the development and introduction of major technology innovations in education, which will be integral to improving the FAFSA experience and ensuring millions of students and families can easily access the federal financial aid they are entitled to,” said U.S. Secretary of Education Miguel Cardona.

The Department remains committed to ensuring all students receive the federal aid they need to access higher education and is working to improve the application experience for the next FAFSA cycle. The Department has heard from students, families, institutions, states, and those that support them that it is most important for the 2025-26 FAFSA form to be available on October 1st, and the Department is working toward that goal. To minimize disruptions and ensure a smooth experience for students, families and institutions, the 202526 FAFSA will remain consistent with the 2024-

“Jeremy brings deep experience having successfully led the development and introduction of major technology innovations in education, which will be integral to improving the FAFSA experience and ensuring millions of students and families can easily access the federal financial aid they are entitled to,” said U.S. Secretary of Education Miguel Cardona.

25 form. The Department has made significant progress to address and resolve all major known issues with the 2024-25 form and will continue to make improvements to the form to enable a better user experience.

For the 2024-25 award year, which will begin July 1, 2024, the Department has already received and processed over 11.1 million FAFSA forms. The Department also released new data that show that it has made significant progress in closing the gap in FAFSA submissions to 8 percent compared to this time last year, down from nearly 40 percent in March. This FAFSA cycle was the culmination of extraordinary change:

Over 20 systems within FSA, some over 50 years old, had to be rebuilt from the ground up. The changes have meant that students can complete the form faster – many in less than 15 minutes.

7.1 million students in total are expected to be eligible for Pell Grants, including 5.7 million students eligible for a maximum Pell Grant, making 1.7 million more students receiving the maximum Pell Grant. Overall, 665,000 more students will

receive Pell grants.

The expansive scope and timeline of the changes for the 2024-25 FAFSA has been challenging for students, families, institutions, states, and organizations that support them. The Department will continue to work with partners and solicit specific feedback on ways to improve the help text on the form, student tip sheets, and other direct communication to students to ensure students can successfully complete the 2025-26 FAFSA. We will also conduct a series of listening sessions over the coming weeks to inform how we can better support students, families, colleges, states, and other partners for a successful 2025-26 FAFSA season.

In addition, the Department will publish a Request for Information (RFI) this summer to solicit feedback from those not able to attend the sessions. The listening sessions and RFI will also lead to the development of a new Better FAFSA Better Future Roadmap, to be released in late summer, that will outline new tools the Department is making available such as additional trainings, webinars, counselor guides, and student tip sheets.

FAFSA Student Support Strategy

In May, the Department launched the FAFSA Student Support Strategy to increase the number of students completing their FAFSAs and enrolling in college. This strategy has now provided over $30 million in funding and counting and has reached more than 180 organizations across the country.

The funding is supporting various projects and activities, including launching paid media campaigns to increase FAFSA completion, providing stipends to school counselors hosting FAFSA completion events, launching mobile FAFSA clinics, providing one-on-one support during FAFSA office hours, translation services, and other activities all organizations focused on ensuring that students and families are successful in submitting the 2024-25 FAFSA. This work will continue through the summer months.

A regularly updated list of awardees can be found at the ECMC website.

Power Up Family Mealtimes

Bring loved ones together with protein-packed peanuts

(Family Features) Between juggling work, family, friends and social activities, powering through busy day-to-day schedules requires a lot of energy. Building meals around recipes packed with a plant-based protein such as peanuts or peanut butter can help your family come together to refuel.

In fact, at 7 grams per serving, a nutrient-rich powerhouse like peanuts delivers the most protein of any nut and contains six essential vitamins – vitamin E, folate, riboflavin, thiamin, niacin and vitamin B6 – and seven essential minerals – phosphorus, iron, magnesium, potassium, zinc, copper and calcium.

As a versatile ingredient that can be enjoyed as a standalone snack or part of a variety of recipes from morning to night, peanuts can take center stage at the family table when it’s time to recharge at the end of long days. Start with an appetizer like Broccoli and Edamame Salad with Peanut Dressing, which can be on the table in 10 minutes, to hold over hunger ahead of a protein-packed main course like Chicken with Peanut Sauce in Lettuce Wraps. Finish off the evening meal with Peanut Butter Cottage Cheese Cheesecake as a better-for-you dessert.

Find more delicious ideas for keeping your family energized at gapeanuts.com.

Chicken with Peanut Sauce in Lettuce Wraps

Recipe courtesy of Parker’s Plate on behalf of the Georgia Peanut Commission

Prep time: 10 minutes

Cook time: 15 minutes

Servings: 4

2 pounds ground chicken

2 tablespoons sesame oil

3/4 cup diced shiitake mushrooms

1 small onion, diced

2 garlic cloves, grated

1 1/2 tablespoons fresh grated ginger

1/2 cup hoisin sauce

1/2 cup water chestnuts, diced

3 green onions (both white and green parts), chopped

2 garlic cloves, grated

1/4 cup cilantro, chopped, for garnish

1/4 cup crushed peanuts, for garnish

iceberg or butter lettuce, for wraps

Peanut Sauce:

3 tablespoons creamy peanut butter

2 teaspoons brown sugar

1 tablespoon fresh lime juice

2 tablespoons chili garlic sauce

1 teaspoon fresh grated ginger

1 tablespoon soy sauce

In pan, saute ground chicken in sesame oil until cooked through. Drain if mixture is watery.

Add shiitake mushrooms and onion; saute until mushrooms have softened and appear caramel colored.

Add garlic, ginger, hoisin, water chestnuts and green onions. Let chicken mixture simmer on low.

To make peanut sauce: In saucepan over medium-low heat, mix peanut butter, brown sugar, lime juice, chili garlic sauce, ginger and soy sauce until smooth, warm and thinned slightly.

Fold into chicken mixture. Stir until combined and simmer on low until peanut sauce is evenly distributed.

Garnish with fresh cilantro and crushed peanuts. Serve in lettuce wraps.

Broccoli and Edamame Salad with Peanut Dressing

Recipe courtesy of Parker’s Plate on behalf of the Georgia Peanut Commission

Prep time: 10 minutes

Cook time 5 minutes

Servings: 4

Dressing:

1/2 fresh lime, juice only

1/4 cup toasted sesame seed oil

3 tablespoons honey

2 tablespoons tahini

3 tablespoons creamy peanut butter

1 teaspoon chili oil

1 garlic clove, grated

1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated kosher salt, to taste

1 tablespoon hot water, plus additional for thinner consistency (optional)

Salad:

2 cups broccoli slaw

1 cup shelled edamame, cooked

1 1/2 cups chopped raw broccoli

1/2 cup English cucumber, quartered and chopped

1/4 cup fresh mint, chopped

1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped

1/4 cup salted peanuts, roughly chopped toasted sesame seeds, for garnish (optional)

To make dressing: In bowl, whisk lime juice, toasted sesame seed oil, honey, tahini, peanut butter, chili oil, garlic, ginger and salt, to taste. Add hot water, adding additional, if necessary, until dressing reaches desired consistency. Set aside. To make salad: In large bowl, combine broccoli slaw, edamame, broccoli, cucumber, mint, cilantro and peanuts. Toss with dressing to combine and garnish with toasted sesame seeds, if desired.

AC 5-29-2024

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF COOK COUNTY, ILLINOIS COUNTY DEPARTMENT - CHANCERY DIVISION NATIONSTAR MORTGAGE LLC Plaintiff, vs. VICKY SMITH, DEUTSCHE BANK NATIONAL TRUST COMPANY, AS INDENTURE TRUSTEE FOR AMERICAN HOME MORTGAGE INVESTMENT TRUST 2007-2, UNKNOWN OWNERS AND NONRECORD CLAIMANTS, Defendants, 23 CH 6118 NOTICE OF SALE PUBLIC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered in the above entitled cause Intercounty Judicial Sales Corporation will on Tuesday, July 2, 2024 at the hour of 11 a.m. in their office at 120 West Madison Street, Suite 718A, Chicago, Illinois, sell at public auction to the highest bidder for cash, as set forth below, the following described mortgaged real estate: P.I.N. 32-25-116-029-0000. Commonly known as 21763 PETERSON AVE., SAUK VILLAGE, IL 60411. The mortgaged real estate is improved with a single family residence. If the subject mortgaged real estate is a unit of a common interest community, the purchaser of the unit other than a mortgagee shall pay the assessments required by subsection (g-1) of Section 18.5 of the Condominium Property Act. Sale terms: 10% down by certified funds, balance, by certified funds, within 24 hours. No refunds. The property will NOT be open for inspection. For information call Mr. Ira T. Nevel at Plaintiff's Attorney, Law Offices of Ira T. Nevel, 175 North Franklin Street, Chicago, Illinois 60606. (312) 3571125. 23-00925 INTERCOUNTY

JUDICIAL SALES CORPORATION intercountyjudicialsales.com I3244612

AC 6-12-2024

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF COOK COUNTY, ILLINOIS COUNTY DEPARTMENT - CHANCERY

DIVISION PENNYMAC LOAN SERVICES, LLC Plaintiff, -v.ELISE V WARD, SECRETARY OF HOUSING AND URBAN DEVELOPMENT Defendants 22 CH 09552 666 BIRCH LANE OLYMPIA

FIELDS, IL 60461 NOTICE OF SALE PUBLIC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered in the above cause on March 22, 2023, an agent for The Judicial Sales Corporation, will at 10:30 AM on July 22, 2024, 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 666 BIRCH LANE, OLYMPIA FIELDS,

25% down of the

the close of the

by

payable to The

Sales Corporation. No third party checks will be accepted. The balance, in certified funds/or wire transfer, is due within twenty-four (24) hours. 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 without 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 confirmation 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 plaintiff 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 mortgagee, 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 SECTION 15-1701(C) OF THE ILLINOIS MORTGAGE FORECLOSURE LAW. You will need a photo identification 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. MCCALLA RAYMER LEIBERT PIERCE, LLC Plaintiff's Attorneys, One North Dearborn Street, Suite 1200, Chicago, IL, 60602. Tel No. (312) 346-9088. 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. MCCALLA RAYMER LEIBERT PIERCE, LLC One North Dearborn Street, Suite 1200 Chicago IL, 60602 312-3469088 E-Mail: pleadings@mccalla.com Attorney File No. 22-12728IL_843456 Attorney Code. 61256 Case Number: 22 CH 09552 TJSC#: 43-

1502 NOTE: Pursuant to the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act, you are advised that Plaintiff's attorney is deemed to be a debt collector attempting to collect a debt and any information obtained will be used for that purpose. Case # 22 CH 09552 I3245887

AC 6-19-2024

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF COOK COUNTY, ILLINOIS COUNTY DEPARTMENT - CHANCERY

DIVISION CITIMORTGAGE, INC., Plaintiff, -v.- Patricia Little AKA

Patricia A Little, Defendants. 23CH-06283 319 Mohawk St., Park Forest, IL 60466 NOTICE OF SALE PUBLIC NOTICE IS HEREBY

GIVEN that pursuant to a Judgment of foreclosure and Sale entered in the above cause on 4/24/2024, an agent of Auction.com LLC will at 12:00 PM on July 31, 2024 located at 100 N LaSalle Suite 1400 Chicago, IL 60606, sell at public sale to the highest bidder, as set forth below, the following described real estate. Commonly known as 319 Mohawk St., Park Forest, IL 60466 Property Index No. 31-35209-026-0000 The real estate is improved with a Single Family Residence. The judgment amount was $84,730.48 Sale Terms: 20% down of the highest bid by certified funds at the close of the sale payable to Auction.com LLC, No third party checks will be accepted. All registered bidders need to provide a photo ID in order to bid. The balance, in certified funds/or wire transfer, is due within twenty-four (24) hours. (relief fee not required)

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 without 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 confirmation 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 plaintiff 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 mortgagee, shall pay the assessments and the legal fees required by the Condominium property Act, 765 ILCS 605/9 (g)(l) 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 SECTION 15-1701 (C) OF THE ILLINOIS MORTGAGE FORECLOSURE LAW. For information, contact Plaintiffs attorney: Heavner, Beyers & Mihlar, LLC please refer to file number 6313161. Auction.com LLC 100 N LaSalle Suite 1400 Chicago, IL 60606 - 872-225-4985 You can also visit www.auction.com. Attorney File No. 6313161 Case Number: 23-CH-06283 NOTE: PURSUANT TO THE FAIR DEBT COLLECTION PRACTICES ACT, YOU ARE ADVISED THAT PLAINTIFF'S ATTORNEY IS DEEMED TO BE A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT AND ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. I3244902

LEGAL NOTICE

Notice is hereby given, pursuant to "An Act in relation to the use of an Assumed Business Name in the conduct or transaction of Business in the State," as amended, that a certification was registered by the undersigned with the County Clerk of Cook County. Registration Number: G24000168 on MAY 31, 2024 Under the Assumed Business Name of TYLESSIA’S CLEANING SERVICES with the business located at: 1418 W. 80TH ST APT. 2, CHICAGO, IL 60620. The true and real full name(s) and residence address of the owner(s)/partner(s) is: Owner/Partner Full Name TYLESSIA TONAREE MOORE Complete Address 1418 W. 80TH ST. APT. 2 CHICAGO, ILLINOIS 60620, USA

Notice is hereby given, pursuant to "An Act in relation to the use of an Assumed Business Name in the conduct or transaction of Business in the State," as amended, that a certification was registered by the undersigned with the County Clerk of Cook County. Registration Number: G24000187 on JUNE 3, 2024 Under the Assumed Business Name of FELISHA HOWARD ESTATE with the business located at: 433 WEST HARRISON STREET P.O. BOX 6088, CHICAGO, IL 60680. The true and real full name(s) and residence address of the owner(s)/partner(s) is: Owner/Partner Full Name FELISHA HOWARD Complete Address 9138 SOUTH CARPENTER ST, CHICAGO, ILLINOIS 60620, USA

Notice is hereby given, pursuant to "An Act in relation to the use of an Assumed Business Name in the conduct or transaction of Business in the State," as amended, that a certification was registered by the undersigned with the County Clerk of Cook County. Registration Number: G24000188on JUNE 3,