Hyde Park Citizen 1-18-2023

Shari Currie is the owner of Recycled Modern, a home décor with a location in Hyde Park. PHOTO PROVIDED BY SHARI CURRIE.

briefly

PROJECT REAP SEEKS APPLICANTS FOR SPRING ACADEMY

Project REAP (Real Estate Associate Program), the industry’s leading effort to advance diversity, equity and inclusion in the commercial real estate (CRE) industry for close to 25 years, is accepting applications for its Spring 2023 Academy now through midnight EST Tuesday, Jan. 31. The REAP Academy is designed to further career advancement for diverse professionals seeking to enter the field of commercial real estate. Real estate experience is NOT required.

Candidates who live in or within commuting distance of REAP’s 8 metro markets – Atlanta; New York City; Washington, DC; Chicago; Cleveland; Columbus; L.A.; Dallas – may apply for the 10-week Hybrid track that includes 3 weeks in-person. Candidates outside of a commuting radius may apply for the 7-week Virtual track. Both tracks are required to take additional on-demand sessions. The Academy will take place from April 10 to June 12. Other details including eligibility, requirements, tuition and how to apply may be found at https://www.projectreap.org/reapacademy.

GOV. PRITZKER SIGNS LEGISLATION BANNING ASSAULT WEAPONS AND SALE OF HIGH-CAPACITY MAGAZINES

SPRINGFIELD – Standing alongside lawmakers and gun control activists, Governor Pritzker signed the Protect Illinois Communities Act banning the sale and distribution of assault weapons, high-capacity magazines, and switches in Illinois, effective immediately.

“For the past four years, my administration and my colleagues in the State Capitol have been battling the powerful forces of the NRA to enshrine the strongest and most effective gun violence legislation that we possibly can,” said Gov. JB Pritzker. “I couldn’t be prouder to say that we got it done. And we will keep fighting — bill by bill, vote by vote, and protest by protest — to ensure that future generations only hear about massacres like Highland Park, Sandy Hook, and Uvalde in their textbooks.”

House Bill 5471 also caps sales of high-capacity ammunition magazines, bans “switches” that convert legal handguns into assault weapons, and extends the ability of courts to prevent dangerous individuals from possessing a gun through firearm restraining orders.

The new law also requires existing owners of semi-automatic rifles to register their ownership, ensuring that law enforcement knows the location of these weapons of war and who to hold accountable if they fall into the wrong hands.

Governor Pritzker has also signed legislation to ban unserialized, privately made “ghost guns,” the first Midwestern state to do so (HB 4383). In 2021, Governor Pritzker signed legislation expanding background checks on all gun sales in Illinois and modernizing and strengthening the Firearm Owners Identification Card System (HB 562).

Additionally, Governor Pritzker signed legislation (SB 337) to combat the scourge of illegal gun trafficking, making Illinois the 16th state to require gun dealers to be certified by the state after more than a decade of work. Governor Pritzker’s Reimagine Public Safety Act also established the first ever Office of Firearm Violence Prevention, providing a historic investment in community-based violence prevention for the communities most affected by firearm violence.

House Bill 5471 also codifies the Illinois State Police’s internet-based system for reporting stolen firearms and enhances security around certain gun transfers by requiring such exchanges taking place after July 1, 2023 to be filed with a federally licensed firearms dealer and extending the record-keeping time from 10 to 20 years.

This legislation is effective immediately.

Home décor store brings vibe to Hyde Park

Continued from page 1

BY TIA CAROL JONES

Shari always wanted a space with a shop of her own. She started planning events and fell in love with it. When she bought her house, she started to shop for items to decorate. She had a concept of what she wanted, but couldn’t find it in stores. It led her to create a space where people would feel at home, while they were shopping for home décor and art.

She learned how the home décor business works from a mentor who owns a vintage store. She started doing pop-ups, with a twist. She enlisted artist friends who she had collaborated with for different events.

“I always felt like I wanted to have two different locations at the same time. One was on the North side, where my mom grew up, because that was a huge part of my life, and one on the South side, because that’s where I grew up,” she said.

Currie opened the lakeview location on the North side. For the South side location, she wanted to be strategic. She knew she wanted to bring a location to Hyde Park. She found the space in Harpers Court and opened it in November of 2022. It is her goal with Recycled Modern to build a bridge of representation across the city.

Inside Recycled Modern, work from primarily Black artists are represented, a diverse group of makers and collaborators. Those pieces weave the fabric of Chicago. “It’s becoming this space where people come in and

they want to have cool events, centered around artists and artistry, of the different makers that come from Chicago or come from the Midwest. You can shop for home décor and you can feel at home, everything that’s in there is either handmade or locally sourced or collaborated with a local artist,” she said.

Currie participated in programs to help grow her business. The journey for her is still happening. The most recent event at Recycled Modern in Hyde Park was for Memoirs, a local fragrance company created by Terrance Pratt. The events, which are experiential in nature, are a way to highlight the makers story of entrepreneurship.

The Lakeview location will be open for private events in late February. Currie started off showcasing the pieces of artists who were close to her, had a connection with and worked with her previously. She has expanded to include artists from Chicago and the Midwest.

“Growing from there means, I see something someone would refer, and I have to hear their story and connect to their work, so I can represent them well in the shop. I just hear their story and want to see everybody win and we’ll do an art exhibit, we’ll see how it works or we’ll adjust,” she said. Currie has been overwhelmed by the love she has received since opening the Hyde Park location. People love the events and are excited about the curated events and collaborations.

For more information about Recycled Modern, visit recycledmod.com.

Serve a 3rd Term as President

(CHICAGO) – On Thursday, Jan. 5, during the Metropolitan Water Reclamation District of Greater Chicago (MWRD) Board Meeting, MWRD President Kari K. Steele received a unanimous vote by the MWRD Board of Commissioners to serve a 3rd term as President of the $1.4 billion dollar agency. Each term for President is two years and this is Steele’s 3rd consecutive term. President Steele currently serves as the Chairman of the Engineering Committee and the State Legislation and Rules Committee. She is also the Vice Chairman of the Procurement Committee.

President Steele is a chemist, licensed real estate broker, an environmentalist, and a community leader. She has more than 11 years of experience working as a chemist. She has worked at both the Jardine Water Purification Plant as a water chemist and the MWRD as a water sampler and lab technician. This background makes President Steele uniquely qualified to discuss and analyze proposed operational changes and efficiencies.

“I am honored to have the unanimous support of the Board and to have their continued trust. I’m fully committed to MWRD and excited to work with the Board of Commissioners to execute our mission while being financially responsible, socially aware of any injustices, knowledgeable about spreading information of our responsibility and resources, and boldly being a voice at the table for our key stakeholders…the 5 million residents of Cook County,” said President Kari K. Steele.

The vote by the MWRD Board of Commissioners included voting for Commissioner Kimberly Neely Du Buclet to serve a 2-year term as Vice President of the MWRD Board of Commissioners and Commission -

agency

er Marcelino Garcia to serve a second, 2-year term as Chairman of Finance of the Board of Commissioners of the Metropolitan Water Reclamation District of Greater Chicago.

President Steele’s MWRD Annual Message 2022: A Year in Review was released at the end of the year. Steele’s Annual Message incorporates many of the Board of Commissioners collective efforts and successes in 2022 and throughout her tenure as president. The highlights focus on the following areas: Achieving highest standards, A Focus on Maintenance and Operations, Protecting the Calumet Region for 100 Years, Awards earned, Spreading Resilience across Cook County, Groundbreakings & Ribbon cuttings, Strong Finances, Promoting Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion, 2021-2025 Strategic Plan, Tunnel and Reservoir Plan (TARP) at 50, Nutrient Loss Reduction, COVD-19 Sewage Surveillance and more.

As President Steele remains diligent, focused, and determined in her efforts to conduct business in accordance with “the will of the MWRD Board of Commissioners,” to protect the health and safety of the public in its service area and protect the quality of the water supply source (Lake Michigan), she stresses that there is no end to the impact of the essential work at the MWRD. Entering another term as President she looks forward with confidence in continuing to build a legacy of sustained protection of our water environment today and for future generations.

For more information about President Kari K. Steele, to review President Steele’s Annual Message 2022 and to learn more about MWRD visit www.mwrd.org. Feel free to reach out to the office of MWRD President Kari K. Steele at (312) 751-5694 with any questions or to discuss issues that are important to you.

President Kari K. Steele Received Unanimous Vote by the Metropolitan Water Reclamation District of Greater Chicago Board of Commissioners to

of the $1.4 billion dollar

Black Caucus Legislators Want to Bring Offshore Wind and 1,000s of Jobs to Illinois

ILLINOIS – Black Caucus

legislators Senator Robert Peters (D-Chicago) and Leader Marcus Evans (D-Chicago) together with Rep. Edgar Gonzalez (D-Chicago), Local 150 and Pastor Scott Onque of Faith in Place called for the passage of Rust Belt to Green Belt legislation to jumpstart offshore wind in Lake Michigan.

“Bringing offshore wind to Illinois is an economic issue just as much as it is an environmental issue,” said Sen. Peters, Chair of the Senate Black Caucus. “The green economy hasn’t reached the Southeast Side of Chicago, where the ruins of abandoned steel mills cast long shadows. This pilot project alone would create thousands of jobs during the building phase and 50-100 long-term jobs. And that’s from only a handful of turbines.”

Leader Marcus Evans (D-Chicago), House Sponsor of the bill was absent due to a family emergency, but issued the following statement: “Illinois will miss out on a once-in-a-generation opportunity to take advantage of federal dollars available from the Biden administration to jumpstart offshore wind projects. Other states are competing for this fundings, and if Illinois doesn’t pass this legislation now, it sends the wrong message both to the Black and Brown communities that are looking to Democrats to create the jobs they need, as well as to D.C.”

in three categories: price, overall viability of the applicant, and equity & inclusion.

The developer’s equity plan, which must detail how they will create opportunities and invest in underrepresented communities, is given the most weight when scoring each proposal.

Learn more at rustbelttogreenbelt.com

“Offshore wind is a huge opportunity for Illinois,” said Marc Poulus, Executive Director of the Indiana, Illinois, Iowa Foundation for Fair Contracting. “The passage of this legislation means a green light for unions to start creating pipelines of diverse laborers to do the work specifically required to equip the port and build the turbines. Not only will there be a class of laborers trained to do this work, but wind represents an entry point to the trades for a new generation of skilled workers.”

POLITICAL AFFAIRS

Senate Majority Leader Kimberly A. Lightford – a longstanding advocate to protect a person’s right to reproductive and gender-affirming care – supported a measure Tuesday that further enshrines those rights for Illinoisans.

“As a parent of a transgender child, I have seen firsthand the bullying, the pain and the discrimination that places a dark cloud over their lives – not just in social settings, but in health care settings,” said Lightford (D-Maywood). “Just as it seemed we, as a nation, were getting more accepting – we regressed. We told people their health – their lives – don’t matter. But as a state, we took steps forward. We showed people – all people – that their health needs are worthy and will be protected.”

While Illinois already has some of the most extensive reproductive health laws protecting abortion and gender-affirming care in the country on the books, many neighboring states have fiercely diminished people’s rights and have threatened to intrude upon the rights of people in other states.

Through House Bill 4644, that can’t happen. Illinois health care providers will not be able to be penalized for providing care that is illegal in another state but legal in Illinois, and people in Illinois won’t be punished for seeking reproductive health care or gender-affirming care that is lawful here.

CHATHAM-SOUTHEAST

Chatham, Avalon Park, Park Manor,GreaterGrand Crossing, Burnside,Chesterfield, West Chersterfield, South Shore,and Calumet Heitghts.

SOUTH END

Washington Heights,Roseland,Rosemoor, Englewood,West Englewood, Auburn-Gresham, Morgan Park, Maple Park, Mt. Vernon, Fernwood, Bellevue, Beverly, Pullman, West Pullman, West Pullman,Riverdale, Jeffrey Manor and Hegewisch.

SOUTH SUBURBAN

Serves communities in Harvey, Markham, Phoenix, Robbins, Dixmoor, Calumet Park, Blue Island,SouthHolland,and Dolton. Shopping- their favorite pastime!

HYDE PARK

Lake Meadows, Oakland, Prairie Shores,Douglas, Grand Boulevard, Kenwood, Woodland,South Shore and Hyde Park.

CHICAGO WEEKEND

Chicago Westside Communities, Austin and Garfield Park

SUBURBAN TIMES WEEKLY

BloomTownship, Chicago Heights, Flossmoor,FordHeights, Glenwood, Homewood, Lansing ,Lynwood, Olympia Fileds, Park Forest,Sauk Village,South Chicago and Steger

HB4543 allows Illinois to begin the process of making offshore wind in Lake Michigan a reality. Specifically, the legislation:

Allows the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO) to seek federal funding to build an offshore wind port

Directs the Illinois Power Agency to procure power from an offshore wind pilot project. Legislative action must happen for these initial steps to take place.

Once passed, DCEO would be able to issue a Request for Proposal (RFP) to find private companies capable of building the necessary wind infrastructure.

Crucially, the legislation contains provisions to ensure that the jobs generated from the project go towards the Black and Brown communities that need them the most.

In order to win the RFP, wind developers will need to submit a rigorous proposal that will be scored

“Environmental justice and economic justice go hand in hand for our communities,” said Pastor Scott Onque, Faith in Place. “Offshore wind will diversify Illinois’ renewable energy sources and make us less reliant on fossil fuels, which have created a disproportionate amount of pollution in predominantly Black and Brown communities. At the same time, environmental justice is incomplete without economic justice. The jobs offshore wind creates will help right historical wrongs and support communities that battle chronic disinvestment.”

“Offshore wind has a coalition of support, from labor, to environmental advocates, to the Chicago Chamber of Commerce,” said State Rep. Edgar Gonzalez (D-Chicago). “This is a diverse coalition because offshore wind accomplishes so much for so many. During these times of inflation and an unstable energy market, creating stability and economic security for families is essential, especially when we can do it while protecting the planet at the same time.”

“My colleagues and I helped pass the most comprehensive clean energy legislation in the country, but that cannot be the ceiling for Illinois,” said State Rep. Kam Buckner (D-Chicago). “Environmental justice and sustainability is an existential issue that needs a dedicated plan, innovative thinking, and bold solutions – like offshore wind.”

citizennewspapergroup.com

The measure also calls for a number of other avenues to protect choice, including protecting in vitro fertilization, creating grants to provide abortion training, clarifying advance practice nurses can perform abortions, and more.

“The ability to make decisions and be able to access health care is fundamental to gender equity, equality and justice,” said Lightford. “This is about protecting people’s personal decisions – they should be able to control their own bodies and destinies. Gender equity and reproductive rights go hand-and-hand.”

House Bill 4644 passed the Senate Tuesday.

NAME CHANGE MEASURE PASSES THE SENATE

State Senator Robert Peters supported a measure to allow justice-impacted individuals to legally change their names, which passed out of the Senate Tuesday.

“There are a million reasons why someone could have been impacted by the justice system, and sometimes you find their only crime was trying to survive,” said Peters (D-Chicago). “Sometimes, people need a new identity for their safety, and for their ability to truly lead a good life. This legislation would be an aid in those scenarios.”

House Bill 2542 allows individuals on various criminal registries to file for a name change if the change is sought for the reasons of marriage, transgender identity, religious beliefs, or status as a victim of trafficking.

In particular, many transgender people and victims of human trafficking have crimes of survival in their backgrounds, and need to be able to change their names in order to move on with their lives.

“This legislation is important because it could save someone’s life, or help them move on from a past that wasn’t kind to them,” Peters said. “Further, this could help affirm someone’s chosen gender. It’s necessary that we allow people with justice-impacted backgrounds to change their name.”

House Bill 2542 now awaits consideration from the governor.

Sen. Peters, Leader Evans, Rep. Gonzalez, Rep. Buckner, unions and environmental advocates support legislation to take advantage of federal resources to jumpstart offshore wind pilot project in Lake Michigan

LEADER LIGHTFORD FIGHTS TO FURTHER ENSHRINE ABORTION ACCESS AND GENDER-AFFIRMING CARE IN ILLINOIS

digitalundivided Names Brittany S. Hale As Interim CEO and Chief Operating Officer

NEWARK, N.J., PRNewswire -- digitalundivided, the leading non-profit leveraging data, programs, and advocacy to catalyze economic growth for Latina and Black women entrepreneurs and innovators, has announced the appointment of Brittany S. Hale as Interim Chief Executive Officer and Chief Operating Officer. Hale takes the reins from Lauren Maillian, who recently abdicated the role after two years of leadership. Unanimously trusted by digitalundivided’s Board of Directors, Hale will serve in the role of CEO as the organization conducts a nationwide search for a permanent leader.

“The Board of Directors has placed tremendous trust and confidence in the leadership changes made and is confident that these changes will lead to greater longterm success and impact,” says Yemi Akisanya and Larry Wilson, Board Co-Chairs of digitalundivided. “As we embark on the journey of finding a permanent CEO, we are honored to have Brittany at the helm of driving digitalundivided’s future. Collectively, we know the leadership team will ensure that the transition is smooth and successful, and we are very excited about what the future holds.”

Previously serving as digitalundivided’s Director of Operations and People, Hale spearheaded the development of operational systems that allowed digitalundivided to gracefully and sustainably scale its activities. In the role of Interim CEO and COO, she will work closely with digitalundivided’s Board of Directors and executive leadership team

to advance the organization’s strategic vision, execute its programs, and oversee operational strategies and initiatives. A leadership and organizational design expert, Hale brings to the roles her deep expertise in litigation, politics, and risk management and a fiery commitment to dismantling destructive systems of racial and gender bias.

“digitalundivided has been a champion for economic empowerment for Latina and Black women founders for over a decade, leading programming and initiatives dedicated to creating sustainable change

which all women of color own their work and worth, digitalundivided is excited to continue serving as a trusted resource for founders and funders.

for these innovators,” says Brittany S. Hale, Interim CEO and COO of digitalundivided. “As the organization continues to evolve and invest in the entrepreneurial journeys of Latina and Black women, I am honored to contribute my experience and vast leadership and organizational knowledge to driving this mission forward.”

Since 2012, digitalundivided’s work and advocacy has laid the groundwork to empower generations to speak in profound ways about the realities, experiences, and disparities of entrepreneurship while defining actions for change. On a mission to create a greater world in

Bloomberg Launches New Historically Black College Trading Challenge

NEW YORK, PRNewswire -- Bloomberg for Education and Bloomberg Human Resources put the finance knowledge of more than 60 students at Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) to the test in a new environmental, social, governance (ESG) trading challenge event.

This event, called the Bloomberg and HBCU ESG Trading Challenge, is a virtual investment competition taking place entirely on the Bloomberg Terminal. Students from Clark Atlanta University, Howard University, Hampton University, Morehouse College and Morgan State University were among the first group of students to participate. Students invested $1 million virtual US dollars across securities while receiving support from faculty advisors and training from Bloomberg employees.

The winner was decided based on the trade performance of each participant. Darren Stephens, a sophomore at Clark Atlanta University came out on top. “This was my first time interacting with the Bloomberg Terminal and the Bloomberg team did a great job teaching me how to navigate and complete analytical research on companies,” said Stephens. “I learned through this experience that investing requires you to take risks.”

This initiative stemmed from the annual Bloomberg Global Trading Challenge, Bloomberg’s flagship Terminal-based investment competition. The Bloomberg and HBCU ESG Trading Challenge is geared towards Black students in the US who are typically underrepresented in the finance industry. It was created to help HBCU students build marketable skills and knowledge needed to compete for finance jobs.

As part of their participation, students were among the first group of users to access the Bloomberg for Education ESG Certificate course focused on sustainable investing, an increasingly relevant area of finance. Upon completion of the

course, students receive a certificate of completion that they can put on their resumes and LinkedIn profiles.

“Bloomberg for Education aims to better equip university students for the ever-changing financial world,” said Emily Perrucci, Bloomberg Global Head of User Support. “These interactive courses give students the opportunity to grow their working knowledge and familiarize themselves with the Bloomberg Terminal.”

Students who participate in the challenge also receive direct access to Bloomberg recruiters who provide professional development support around interviewing and resume creation.

The Bloomberg and HBCU ESG Trading Challenge is the latest addition to Bloomberg’s ever-growing relationship with HBCUs nationwide and represents Bloomberg’s commitment to nurturing a pipeline of diverse talent across financial services.

Bloomberg for Education helps universities incorporate the Bloomberg Terminal into their academic programs to better prepare students for the global job market. Universities around the globe use Bloomberg to bring the real world of finance into the classroom, providing students with access to the same information platform used by leading decision makers in business, finance and government.

Bloomberg is a global leader in business and financial information, delivering trusted data, news, and insights that bring transparency, efficiency, and fairness to markets. The company helps connect influential communities across the global financial ecosystem via reliable technology solutions that enable our customers to make more informed decisions and foster better collaboration. For more information, visit https://www.bloomberg.com/ company or request a demo.

Founded in 2012, digitalundivided is the leading non-profit leveraging our data, programs, and advocacy to catalyze economic growth for Latina and Black women entrepreneurs and innovators. Our goal is to create a greater world where all women of color own their work and worth. Our mission moves the entrepreneurial ecosystem forward, to increase funding, access, and opportunities for women of color in business and innovation. We were the first to debut authoritative research on the state of Latina and Black women founders with the ProjectDiane Report. The legacy of ProjectDiane inspires our expanded research efforts, conducted by women of color and focused on women of color in entrepreneurship and the businesses they lead. Our programs -- START, BIG Pre-Accelerator, BREAKTHROUGH, Do You Fellowship, and the New C-Suite -- mobilize community, best-in-class resources, advisory, and investment to support women of color founders at all stages of their entrepreneurial and funding journeys. digitalundivided’s work is based in the United States, but our impact on advancing inclusive innovation resonates globally. For more information, visit: www.digitalundivided. com and follow us on Twitter (@digundiv), Instagram, and Facebook (@digitalundivided).

OneTen Appoints Debbie Dyson as President and Chief Operating Officer

NEW YORK, PRNewswire -- OneTen, a coalition of leading executives and companies committed to hiring, promoting, and advancing one million Black individuals without four-year degrees into family-sustaining careers, has announced the appointment of Debbie Dyson as President and Chief Operating Officer, reporting to CEO Maurice Jones. In this newly created role, Dyson will apply her more than 30 years of human capital management experience to scale OneTen’s operations and efforts, overseeing its strategic, financial, operational, technology, and marketing plans.

“Debbie has garnered industry-wide respect and established herself a leader with an unmatched ability to drive results,” Maurice Jones, OneTen CEO, said. “As OneTen continues to grow and scale our efforts to hire one million Black talent into family-sustaining jobs, we need someone equipped to help us build muscle to achieve operational excellence, and Debbie is that person. I am excited for her to join us in our mission.”

Dyson comes to OneTen after holding multiple senior executive leadership positions, most recently as President of ADP’s National Account Services. Under her leadership, this multi-billion-dollar organization evolved to implement rich technology solutions and flourish with operational process improvements, year-over-year client retention, and commitment to enterprise service excellence. She brings a depth of experience spanning many disciplines, including client success delivery, business process optimization, and global enterprise solutions.

“OneTen is leading the charge in the skillsfirst hiring movement, and to advance even greater change, we need leaders like Debbie at the helm,” said co-chairs, Ginni Rometty, former Chairman and CEO, IBM, and Ken Frazier, former Chairman and CEO, Merck. “Debbie is an innovative leader

whose decades of management, technology, and operational experience is similarly matched by an unwavering commitment to inspire and engage everyone around her. We couldn’t be more thrilled to welcome her to OneTen.”

Among her accolades, Dyson was named one of the 50 Most Powerful Women in Business two years in a row by Black Enterprise Magazine, as well as one of the 300 Most Powerful Executives in Corporate America. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Finance from Santa Clara University.

“There is no better feeling than having an opportunity that matches exactly where you are personally and professionally,” said Dyson. “I can easily say that is what OneTen represents for me. I am thrilled to join this fantastic organization grounded in a vision and mission to change the trajectory of how we empower, excel, and enhance the potential of these deserving individuals. The work is meaningful and life changing. Becoming part of this team to carry forward the efforts in motion and provide a path for acceleration through partnership and collaboration is a true honor.”

OneTen is a coalition that includes leading chief executives and their companies who are coming together to hire, upskill, reskill and promote one million Black individuals who do not yet have a four-year degree into family-sustaining jobs over the next 10 years. OneTen connects employers with talent developers including leading nonprofits and other skill-credentialing organizations who support development of diverse talent. By creating more equitable and inclusive workforces, we believe we can reach our full potential as a nation of united citizens. OneTen recognizes the unique potential in everyone – every individual, every business, every community – to change the arc of America’s story with Black talent. Join us at OneTen.org, where one can be the difference.

David’s Bridal Announces Brand Partnership with Kristine Thompson of Trendy Curvy

CONSHOHOCKEN, Pa., PRNewswire -- David’s Bridal, the nation’s leading bridal and special occasion authority and popular fashion blogger, plus size influencer, and bride-to-be, Kristine Thompson of Trendy Curvy have teamed up in a branded partnership.

The founder of Trendy Curvy and wildly popular fashion influencer and blogger, Kristine Thompson has taken the fashion world by storm with her relatable content and fashion insights. With over 1.6M TikTok followers and over 500K on Instagram, Kristine’s Trendy Curvy brand is grounded in a mission to show that curvy women can be just as stylish and fabulous as everyone else. Thompson has reshaped the plus size fashion industry through her carefully curated content and empowering messaging boasting body positivity and style inclusion for all.

The partnership with David’s Bridal is a perfect match as both the retailer and Thompson lead the way on inclusivity in the special occasion space. David’s Bridal proudly offers the largest selection of plus size gowns for all occasions – from weddings, to date night, military balls, prom, homecoming, and beyond as well as price parity in sizing from classic ball gowns to dramatic mermaid/trumpet gowns in sizes 14W–30W. Partnering with Kristine is a natural fit as her platform aligns with the retailer’s brand ethos that everyone deserves their dream dress without any compromise on price, size, or style.

In this branded partnership, David’s Bridal and Thompson will craft compelling content showcasing the retailer’s exclusive designs as well as offer fashion tips, insights, how to style looks, and share favorites from the influencer herself. As a 2023 bride, Thompson will wear David’s Bridal styles for events surrounding her wedding as well as her bridal gown for her upcoming nuptials. Thompson also attended the brand’s Spring 2023 Bridal Market Week showcase as a brand ambassador with a vignette dedicated to her favorite David’s styles.

To continue disrupting the wedding planning space, the retailer has teamed up with respected brands and influencers to build on its existing portfolio of partnerships and ambassadors. By crafting strategic partnerships and working intentionally with brand ambassadors that align with the retailer’s mission and values, David’s Bridal continues to uphold its commitment to standing beside every bride throughout their entire wedding planning journey from “yes” to “I do” and beyond.

“Teaming up with Kristine is so special. She is a brilliant fashion influencer and advocate for the plus size community,” said Kelly Cook, Chief Marketing & IT Officer of David’s Bridal. “At David’s, we believe unequivocally that everyone deserves their dream dress without any compromises. We are thrilled to have a partner like Kristine to amplify our brand philosophy.”

“Partnering with David’s Bridal has been such a perfect relationship,” said Kristine Thompson. “As a plus size bride myself, it’s been amazing to showcase the affordable and stylish options that David’s Bridal has to offer for so many body types. It’s of the utmost importance to me for women to feel special and beautiful on their big day, no matter what their size.”

With 70 years of experience dressing customers for all of life’s special occasions, David’s Bridal is built on the idea

everyone deserves to have the attire of their dreams regardless of style preference, shape, size, or budget. We believe in: CELEBRATING all life’s magical moments, INNOVATING so we are always serving her, PERSONALIZING everything so it’s all done her way, DESIGNING the most luxurious dresses, and finally, KINDNESS - so she doesn’t have to worry about anything. It is our mission to help anyone and everyone find the look that will allow them to be the best, most genuine version of themselves on their wedding day or any special occasion. David’s Bridal is dedicated to helping each customer, with the assistance of online planning tools and resources powered by Blueprint Registry, Rustic Wedding Chic, Anomalie, and Forever Bride, knowledgeable stylists, and expert alteration artisans who will guide them through the entire purchasing journey. With more than 300 stores located across the US, Canada, UK, and franchise locations in Mexico, we offer the convenience of one-stop shopping for every magical event in her life including weddings, Quinceañera, graduations, prom, communions, or simply making the world her runway and beyond. Additionally, David’s recently launched #frontlinefierce Philanthropy Program dedicated to amplifying the heroism, fearlessness, and bravery of those who serve others in their community. To learn more about David’s Bridal, visit www.DavidsBridal. com, download the Planning App, and connect on social media through Instagram, YouTube, Pinterest, Facebook, Twitter, TikTok, and LinkedIn.

Kristine Thompson is the creator of the fashion & lifestyle blog, TrendyCurvy.com. Kristine started TrendyCurvy in 2013 as a creative outlet to show that fashion can truly be for all. It has since grown into a destination for those looking for style inspiration, lifestyle content, travel and the latest in fashion. Kristine has built a community of nearly 2 million followers across her social media platforms. She has also been featured in several notable publications such as Vogue Italia, Glamour Magazine, People StyleWatch, and Essence Magazine.

KEKE PALMER WEARS LORRAINE WEST FOR ‘BLACK IS BRILLIANT’ WITH RAD AND DE BEERS GROUP AT THE 2023 NEW YORK FILM CRITICS CIRCLE AWARDS

NEW YORK, PRNewswire -- Keke Palmer wore earrings, a choker, and rings by Lorraine West featuring ethically and sustainably sourced natural diamonds from Botswana for RAD x De Beers Group’s #BlackIsBrilliant campaign at 2023 New York Film Critics Circle Awards on Wednesday, Jan. 4, in New York, New York.

With #BlackIsBrilliant, De Beers Group provides a platform for Black designers to create one-of-a-kind pieces with natural diamonds from Botswana, with an emphasis on the Red Carpet as a powerful forum for communication and visibility in amplifying Black voices and talent.

De Beers Group teamed with RAD (Red carpet Advocacy), taking RAD’s established, purpose-driven approach of pairing talent and brands to use their platforms in advocating for causes at global events as a way to promote social progress and positive shifts in culture.

De Beers Group is deeply committed to creating a positive, lasting impact that will endure well beyond the discovery of its last diamond.

Keke Palmer wore the Abstract Baby’s Breath Vine Crescent Earring and Vine Crawler Earring in 18k Rose Gold with ethically and sustainably sourced natural diamonds from Botswana, the Shooting Star Choker in 18k Rose Gold with 18k White Gold Hinge with ethically and sustainably sourced natural diamonds from Botswana, and the Slither Rings in 18k Rose Gold with ethically and sustainably sourced natural diamonds from Botswana for a combined 12.54 total carat weight of De Beers natural diamonds.

In support of Keke’s advocacy of Black creative talent, a $25,000 donation will be made to a charity of her choice.

Lorraine West has always had an affinity for creating original art. As a wife, mother and artisan, her handcrafted contemporary and fine jewelry pieces are inspired by love and a passion for connecting with people on an intuitive and authentic level. Not only are her elegant pieces striking, but you feel them; they’re designed to reflect your own inner beauty and power.

As a self-taught craftswoman, Lorraine pays homage to her Caribbean roots mixing bold and minimalists design sensibilities. Working with her hands comes naturally, thanks to her mother, a baker and her father, a carpenter. Welding and manipulating precious metals is what heals her soul. It’s more than a technique; it’s a spiritual process that’s poured into every design and is evidenced by jewelry that is as much high-end art as it is high fashion. Her symbolic and geometric designs have not only been seen on stars from Zendaya to Beyoncé, but also on countless everyday people who are drawn to the excellence of her craft.

Lorraine graduated from Fashion Institute of Technology with a BFA in Illustration and lives in Brooklyn with her son and husband, who both continue to support her handcrafted creations, all made with Love.

David’s Bridal and popular fashion blogger, plus size influencer, and bride-to-be, Kristine Thompson of Trendy Curvy have teamed up in a branded partnership. PRNewsfoto/David’s Bridal, Inc.

Dia Dipasupil for Getty Images

The U.S. Department of Education (Department) proposed regulations to reduce the cost of federal student loan payments, especially for low and middle-income borrowers. The regulations fulfill the commitment President Biden laid out in August when he announced his Administration’s plan to provide student debt relief for approximately 40 million borrowers and make the student loan system more manageable for student borrowers. The proposed regulations would create the most affordable income-driven repayment (IDR) plan that has ever been made available to student loan borrowers, simplify the program, and eliminate common pitfalls that have historically delayed borrowers’ progress toward forgiveness.

“Today the Biden-Harris administration is proposing historic changes that would make student loan repayment more affordable and manageable than ever before,” said U.S. Secretary of Education Miguel Cardona. “We cannot return to the same broken system we had before the pandemic, when a million borrowers defaulted on their loans a year and snowballing interest left millions owing more than they initially borrowed. These proposed regulations will cut monthly payments for undergraduate borrowers in half and create faster pathways to forgiveness, so borrowers can better manage repayment, avoid delinquency and default, and focus on building brighter futures for themselves and their families.”

The proposed regulations would amend the terms of the Revised Pay As You Earn (REPAYE) plan to offer $0 monthly payments for any individual borrower who makes less than roughly $30,600 annually and any borrower in a family of four who makes less than about $62,400. The regulations would also cut in half monthly payments on undergraduate loans for borrowers who do not otherwise have a $0 payment in this plan. The proposed regulations would also ensure that borrowers stop seeing their balances grow due to the accumulation of unpaid interest after making their monthly payments.

While these regulations would provide critical relief to student borrowers, the Biden-Harris Administration is also committed to ensuring postsecondary institutions and programs are held accountable if they leave borrowers with unaffordable debts. The Department is currently working on a proposed gainful employment regulation that would cut off federal financial aid to career training programs that fail to provide sufficient financial value and require warnings for borrowers who attend any program that leaves graduates with excessive debts. The same regulatory package will also include proposals to strengthen the conditions that can be placed on institutions that fail to meet the requirements of the Higher Education Act or exhibit signs of risk.

The Department is also taking steps today to carry out President Biden’s announcement from August that the Department would publish a list of the programs at all types of colleges and universities that provide the least financial value to students. To advance this effort, the Department is publish-

ing a request for information to seek formal public feedback on the best way to identify the programs that provide the least financial value for students. This public comment process will ensure the Department is carefully considering a range of perspectives and considerations as it constructs the list. Once the list is published, institutions with programs on this list will be asked to submit improvement plans to the Department to improve their financial value.

Estimated effects of the proposed IDR Plan

The proposed regulatory changes would substantially reduce monthly debt burdens and lifetime payments, especially for low and middle-income borrowers, community college students, and borrowers who work in public service. Overall, the Department estimates that the plan would have the following effects compared to the existing REPAYE plan:

Future cohorts of borrowers would see their total payments per dollar borrowed decrease by 40%. Borrowers with the lowest projected lifetime earnings would see payments that are 83% less, while those in the top would only see a 5% reduction.

A typical graduate of a four-year public university would save nearly $2,000 a year relative to the current REPAYE plan.

A first-year teacher with a bachelor’s degree would save more than $17,000 in total payments while pursuing Public Service Loan Forgiveness—a two-thirds reduction in what they would pay in total under REPAYE.

85% of community college borrowers would be debtfree within 10 years

On average, Black, Hispanic, American Indian and Alaska Native borrowers would see their lifetime payments per dollar borrowed cut in half.

Building on an Unparalleled Record of Debt Relief

The draft regulations build upon the work the Biden-Harris Administration has already done to improve the student loan program, make colleges more affordable, approve $48 billion in targeted relief to nearly 2 million student loan borrowers, and fight to provide up to $20,000 in one-time debt relief to over 40 million eligible borrowers, including 26 million who have already applied. These regulations also propose to build on the Administration’s commitment to ensuring IDR plans deliver relief to eligible borrowers. This includes ongoing steps to provide accurate counts of progress toward forgiveness for borrowers through a one-time account adjustment.

The proposed regulations and request for information will be published in the Federal Register tomorrow. The public may comment on both documents through the Regulations.gov website for 30 days. The Department expects to finalize the rules later this year and aims to start implementing some provisions later this year, subject to any changes made based on public comments.

For more information, visit www.ed.gov.

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) has awarded nearly $245 million in Bipartisan Safer Communities Act funding – $185.7 million from the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) and nearly $60 million from the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) – to support youth mental health, help the health care workforce address mental health needs, and fund other critical mental health supports. Addressing the mental health crisis is a top priority of the Biden-Harris Administration, as part of President Biden’s Unity Agenda. The bipartisan legislation signed into law by President Joe Biden in June provided HHS with vital resources to help children and families across the country.

“Investments from the Bipartisan Safer Communities Act will support critical programs for youth and their mental health, including school-based programs that meet children and families where they are,” said HHS Secretary Xavier Becerra. “Advancing youth mental health is a top priority for HHS and this Administration, and we’re encouraged by the continued bipartisan support of these critical programs.”

SAMHSA’s Bipartisan Safer Communities Act awards include:

$73.6 million for Project Advancing Wellness and Resiliency in Education (Project AWARE) to help develop and support school-based mental health programs and services;

$57.7 million in Mental Health Awareness Training grants to prepare and train school personnel, emergency first responders, law enforcement and others to recognize the signs and symptoms of mental health challenges to enable early intervention;

$14.9 million for School Based Trauma-Informed Support Services and Mental Health Care for Children and Youth to increase student access to evidence-based and culturally relevant trauma support services and mental health care;

$19.5 million for the National Child Traumatic Stress Initiative, to improve treatment and services for children, adolescents, and families who have experienced traumatic events; and, $20 million in Resiliency in Communities after Stress and Trauma grants to promote resilience and equity and prevent violence in communities that have recently faced civil unrest, community violence, and/or collective trauma.

HRSA’s Bipartisan Safer Communities Act awards include:

Nearly $60 million to support the integration of mental health training into the training of primary care clinicians, with a specific focus on preparing primary care providers to treat the mental health needs of children and adolescents.

“We are all concerned about the mental health of children and young people in this country,” said Miriam E. Delphin-Rittmon, Ph.D., HHS Assistant Secretary for Mental Health and Substance Use and the leader of SAMHSA. “The additional funding for youth mental health programs provided under the Bipartisan Safer Communities Act helps SAMHSA develop and expand programs that help children, youth and their families get the support and care they need.”

“Often the first person you turn to when you or your kids need mental health support is your trusted primary care provider—yet for too long, we haven’t given those primary care providers the mental health training they need to help. With funding from the Bipartisan Safer Communities Act, the Health Resources and Services Administration is investing in making mental health a part of primary care training so that there is no wrong door when your family needs support,” said Carole Johnson, HHS Administrator of HRSA.

Anyone in the United States seeking treatment for mental health or substance use issues should call SAMHSA’s National Helpline at 800-662-HELP (4357) or visit findtreatment.samhsa.gov.

If you or someone you know is struggling or in crisis, help is available. Call or text 988 or chat 988lifeline.org.

MULTIPLIER IS BACK

HHS Awards Nearly $245 Million to Support Youth Mental Health and Help the Health Care Workforce Meet Families’ Mental Health Needs

New Proposed Regulations Would Transform Income-Driven Repayment by Cutting Undergraduate Loan Payments in Half and Preventing Unpaid Interest Accumulation

At ComEd, we’re at work behind-the-scenes to bring you the power you need for the holidays. That way, you can focus on what makes the season special. We’ll handle the rest.

Record-breaking reliability, powered by ComEd.

Commonwealth Edison Company, 2022

You bring the magic. We’ll take care of the lights.

©

FORMER EDITOR OF THE NAACP’S THE CRISIS, WRITES AFROFUTURISTIC NOVEL

(Black PR Wire) Her skin is like coal mixed with diamonds and her color-rich resort planet is the jewel of the galaxy. But when a series of phantom voices and painful scars force her into exile, she discovers she’s so much more than a dark beauty queen. She’s a healer who can inhabit the souls of her ancestors.

This description summarizes “Where it Rains in Color,” (Angry Robot Books) a sci-fi novel that uplifts black women, celebrates the power of melanin and shines the spotlight on the brilliant Dogon Tribe of Mali, West Africa (best known for their ability to chart stars without telescopes or other devices). Written by award-winning journalist, Denise Crittendon, the novel plays with universal beauty standards and challenges the structure and system in which they live.

“It’s important to note that the protagonist is not loved and revered despite being black. She is loved and revered because she is black,” says Crittendon, a former features-writer for “The Detroit News.”

She adds: “It elevates African culture and what it means to be black. I wanted to usher in a new black aesthetic and project people of African descent into a future that doesn’t strip us of our innate majesty. The inhabitants of my futuristic black planet are powerful, technological geniuses far removed from the misery of the past.”

Listed by Literary Hub and denofgeek.com as one of the best sci-fi releases of December 2022, “Where it Rains in Color,” was number one on Amazon’s Kindle for two weeks and was heralded by “Book Riot” as a novel that will have you “rethinking how you see beauty.”

Crittendon, who was the first woman in the history of the NAACP to be appointed editor of their naitonal magazine, “The Crisis,” is a native Detroiter who was voted one of the “Most Influential Black Women of Metro Detroit.” She’s co-author of “Millionaire Moves: Seven Proven Principals of Entrepreneurship” (written with business mogul William Pickard).

An Artist Considers Beauty and Distraction Through Paintings on Stretch Wrap

LOS ANGELES, DPRNewswire -Ayzay Ukwuoma simply asked Chat GPT to “write a press release about a contemporary Black artist’s use of stretch wrap as an ephemeral material in paintings,” and Chat GTP responded with the following three paragraphs:

“The contemporary artist Ayzay Ukwuoma has released a groundbreaking new series of paintings that explore themes of identity, race, and impermanence. Using stretch wrap as the primary medium, Ukwuoma creates vivid, ephemeral compositions that challenge traditional notions of materiality in art.

“Ukwuoma’s use of stretch wrap as a painting medium is a bold departure from traditional materials such as oil paint or acrylics. The plastic film’s flexibility and transparency allow for a unique form of expression that speaks to the fluidity and complexity of the black experience. By layering and manipulating the stretch wrap, Ayzay Ukwuoma creates depth and movement in the compositions, inviting the viewer to consider the changing nature of identity and the world around us.”

“Ayzay Ukwuoma’s stretch wrap paintings have already garnered critical acclaim and attention from collectors, with exhibitions planned in galleries across the country. As a leading figure in the contemporary black art movement, Ukwuoma is excited to continue pushing the boundaries of materiality and to use his art as a platform for important social and political issues.”

Ukwuoma realized that the words written by Chat GPT were arranged beautifully, yet inaccurate, through a set of assumptions it had made about the phrase “contemporary black artist,” and an impression that Ukwuoma desired the heavily embellished depiction it

had offered for his identity. Essentially, the AI service had generated what could be considered a beautiful distraction in language that eclipses a live viewing of the actual paintings.

In his own words, leaving more to be seen upon sight of the paintings, Ukwuoma says, “These particular paintings have a lot to do with human perception. This set of ‘wraps’ reflect an experience that we happen upon every day in the real and virtual worlds, just through seeing a surface, with indications of the broader lexicon beneath layers of colors, textures, and transparency. I’m looking forward to holding viewings of the ‘wraps’ next month, on appointments within my studio in South Los Angeles.”

For more information contact: info@ayzay.com.

Melanated AI: A New Marketplace Celebrating AI Artists and Creators of Color

(Black PR Wire) A new online marketplace, Melanated AI (www.melanated.ai), is dedicated to celebrating and supporting the work of AI artists and creators of color. This unique platform allows these artists to sell their art as digital downloads, prints, canvas, or non-fungible tokens (NFTs).

Non-fungible tokens (NFTs) are a digital asset that represents ownership of a unique item, such as a digital artwork. They have become an increasingly popular medium for artists and collectors in the digital art world, allowing for the creation and trade of unique, verifiable digital items.

NFTs offer a new avenue for artists to monetize their work and reach new audiences. By selling their artwork as NFTs, artists can potentially earn a higher price for their work, as collectors are willing to pay a premium for the uniqueness and authenticity of the piece. This can be particularly valuable for emerging AI artists who may not have a large following or established reputation.

Currently there is a debate on the ownership of AI artwork since its generated by crafting text prompt sand feeding them into software. The question of ownership in the context of AI artwork is a complex and often debated topic. On one hand, AI artwork is created using algorithms and software, which raises questions about the extent to which the artist can

claim ownership of the final product. On the other hand, many AI artists argue that they play a significant role in the creative process and should be recognized as the creators of the work. Overall, the debate over ownership in the context of AI artwork is ongoing, and there is no one-size-fits-all solution. However, by taking an active role in the creative process and using their own original content as input, AI artists can assert their ownership of the work and claim a significant part of the creation.

Melanated AI was founded with the goal of increasing representation and visibility for AI artists and creators of color within the art world. It is a place where these artists can showcase their talent and reach new audiences, while also monetizing their work.

The platform features a diverse range of art styles

and mediums, including digital illustrations, graphic design, and 3D modeling. Customers can browse and purchase artwork by theme, style, or artist, making it easy to discover new talent.

Melanated AI is also committed to educating the public about the role of AI in art and creativity. The platform will also host regular events and workshops featuring AI artists and experts.

“We are thrilled to launch Melanated AI, a platform that celebrates and supports the work of AI artists and creators of color,” said Aquarius Maximus (aka Technologist Tavonia Evans), Founder of Melanated AI. “We believe that representation and diversity in the art world is crucial, and we are excited to offer a space for these talented artists to share their work and connect with new audiences.”

Ayzay Ukwuoma/PRNewsFoto. BlackPRWire

BlackPRWire

Zumba® Marks Big Return to Consumer Products with Launch of Zumba® 6 Week Transformation Program

MIAMI, PRNewswire -- Zumba® Fitness announced it will return to the consumer product space with the launch of the Zumba 6 Week Transformation Program, a fun and easy solution to lose weight. Often referred to as “exercise in disguise,” Zumba has helped thousands of people around the world shed pounds and it was the reason why many people would seek out the fitness brand. However, stories and studies emerged of Zumba helping to reduce anxiety, depression and stress, showing more holistic results of the class. This product is a reflection of how Zumba helps people today, the merging of physical and emotional exercise and support.

“When Zumba first made its way into people’s hearts, it was through their living room via infomercials and DVDs you could purchase. And while there is nothing like the energy and joy of a Zumba class experience, we’re returning to our roots, in a sense,” shared Zumba Chief Marketing Officer Carolina Moraes. “We’ve carefully crafted an at-home, digital, 6-week program that continues to solidify Zumba as a partner in personal transformation, mind, body and soul.”

The Zumba 6 Week Transformation Program includes: On-Demand Workouts, tailored to make you sweat while

having fun. Each video provides different intensity levels to meet you wherever you are in your fitness journey.

Mindfulness Guidance provided by life + health coach Kass Martin, with weekly tools and activities to keep you motivated, grounded and forever nurturing your soul.

A Nutrition Plan crafted by Nutritionist, Dietician + Chef Lisa Dorfman with expert coaching on how to nourish your body, plus a recipe library of over 60 pages.

Community Accountability Group: A private space to connect with the coaches and those who have also made the commitment to transform.

Over the last 21 years, Zumba has sold more than 25 million DVDs and is credited as one of the pioneers in the home fitness industry. The Zumba 6 Week Transformation Program is available now for $89.00. Visit www.Zumba6week.com to learn more and purchase.

Founded in 2001, Zumba® is the largest branded fitness company in the world – reporting more than 15 million weekly participants, in 200,000 locations, across 185 countries. Zumba blends world rhythms with easy-to-follow choreography for an effective workout that empowers participants to become their best selves - mind, body and soul.

In addition to its original Zumba program, the company offers 10 Zumba specialty classes – from aquatic-based to those specifically designed for active older adults and children. In 2016, Zumba launched its first non-dance, HIIT workout STRONG Nation®, where music acts as the main motivator. The Zumba lifestyle is rounded out by the company’s many consumer product offerings, including video games, original music, activewear and footwear, and interactive Fitness-Concert™ events. For more information about Zumba’s programs and products, or to find a live class, visit zumba.com. Follow us on TikTok, Instagram and Facebook.

eMed® Partners with the NIH in Digital Nationwide Home Test to Treat Program

MIAMI, PRNewswire -- eMed®, the leader in on-demand virtual care and treatment for consumers, has announced a new program with the National Institutes of Health (NIH) and the Administration for Strategic Preparedness and Response (ASPR) to provide at-home treatment based on telehealth evaluations and rapid COVID-19 test results (Home Test to Treat) in communities across the United States as a national initiative to ensure access to COVID treatments for Americans. eMed was awarded the contract from the Rapid Acceleration of Diagnostics (RADx) initiative of the NIH National Institute of Biomedical Imaging and Bioengineering.

The program, first announced by the White House in September 2022, will make clinical evaluations and antiviral treatment available at home through telehealth for eligible individuals at no cost, which could prevent severe illness, hospitalization, or death. Through this effort, millions of Americans will have enhanced access to testing and treatment without leaving home. Individuals in the Home Test to Treat program will have three options to participate:

1) enroll and immediately get shipped six eMed Telehealth kits ahead of time so that they can be prepared to get the easiest and fastest access to treatment if or when infected,

2) enroll and, if exposed, request six eMed telehealth kits (which include tests, telehealth, and access to treatment if positive), or

3) individuals who test on their own at home can request an eMed telehealth visit if symptomatic and self-attest to being positive.

People will be able to participate through smart -

phones or computers or may even access the program through a telephone-only option. The initiative will improve equitable access to care, reduce the time from symptom onset to treatment, reduce the risk of viral transmission to the public, and alleviate the burden on healthcare settings and pharmacy staff.

eMed has provided millions of its Telehealth Kits™ for over a year to states, public health departments, businesses, and individual consumers seeking at-home Test to Treat options. The NIH program is an extension of this mission, leveraging eMed’s Test to Treat™ capabilities with its Digital Trials and Community Research platforms.

“We are excited to be a part of the ongoing efforts of NIH and RADx to develop the evidence base for rapid and timely access to at-home diagnostic testing and therapeutics,” said eMed Co-founder and CEO Dr. Patrice Harris. “Equitable access to testing and treatment is a core value for us at eMed.”

The NIH RADx initiative will integrate digital test reporting, telehealth, home treatment delivery, and remote monitoring to address current equity obstacles while collecting critical data from program participants to inform future test-to-treat programs.

“We are proud to be a partner enabling this important program. eMed was founded to improve how Americans can access care and treatment from home,” said eMed Chief Science Officer and public health expert Michael Mina, MD, Ph.D. “eMed reduces financial and logistical barriers that normally prevent or delay treatment for common illnesses. The risk of additional spread of infections is cut down by allowing sick and infectious people to stay

home while increasing access to treatment. The NIH program makes use of our core competencies and shows the importance of using digital technologies to respond to epidemics like COVID-19 efficiently.”

Later this month, Berks County, Pennsylvania, will be the first location to pilot the Home Test to Treat Program. The goal of the first site is to enroll up to 8,000 participants in the community. eMed, along with UMass Chan Medical School Researchers and the NIH, CDC, among others, will gather information from participants to identify best practices and make improvements to the Home Test to Treat model that can be used to implement the program on a larger scale. Additional communities across the country will be selected to participate based on the level of community need, access to healthcare treatment, expected COVID-19 infection rates, and socio-economic factors. Ultimately the program hopes to open nationally and enroll approximately 80,000 people across the United States.

Researchers at the UMass Chan Medical School, in collaboration with researchers at eMed, will analyze data collected from each participating community, including the impacts of a home-based process for testing and treatment, individual attitudes about the Home Test to Treat Program, and clinical outcomes from treatments.

eMed® is the leader in at-home health diagnostics, using digital technology to bring affordable diagnostic testing, medical screening, and treatment for four of the most common ailments. With more than 3.7 million customers since its fall 2020 launch, eMed has proven effective and reliable. eMed ®Telehealth Kits™ make it easy for consumers to test and screen at home with the guidance of trained Telehealth Proctors and access prescriptions, if needed, at no additional cost--saving time and money compared to costly urgent care and ER visits. The company is revolutionizing the healthcare industry with the first-of-its-kind at-home Test-to-Treat™ solution, an innovative, efficient, and cost-effective way for consumers to have more control over their healthcare at home. Learn more at www.eMed.com.

citizennewspapergroup.com

Zumba®

Enjoy Better-for-You Foods Focused on Flavor

(Family Features) From salads and snacks to breakfast, lunch and dinner, rounding out a full menu of healthy meals shouldn’t be a chore. In fact, you can still enjoy your favorite flavors and tickle your taste buds with nutritious recipes that capitalize on powerful ingredients you actually want to eat.

A fruit-forward breakfast is a nutritious way to start your morning, and a fresh twist on pasta salad can make lunches or your evening side an enjoyable way to stay on track. Bowls filled with grains, veggies and a favorite protein are all the rage, and this seafood-fueled version is no exception when you’re craving a combination of your personal favorites.

Take your better-for-you eating plan from bland and boring to delightfully delicious by visiting Culinary.net for more recipe inspiration.

Eat Smart with Seafood

No matter if you’re searching for a healthy family dinner, a quick lunch at home or an easy idea to meal prep for the week ahead, these Orange Shrimp Quinoa Bowls are perfect for seafood lovers who also enjoy a hint of spice. Fresh, healthy and full of deliciously prepared shrimp, these bowls are also loaded with mushrooms, peppers and cucumbers.

The homemade sauce is light with a sweet yet spicy vibe. Resting over a cup of steamy quinoa for a filling base of healthy grains, it’s a quick and easy recipe you can customize with favorite toppings like sesame seeds and cilantro.

Find more wholesome, health-forward recipes at Culinary.net.

Orange Shrimp Quinoa Bowls

Servings: 2

1 cup quinoa

1 cup orange juice

1 tablespoon hot sauce

1 tablespoon honey

1 tablespoon soy sauce

4 tablespoons vegetable oil

1 tablespoon lime juice

1 tablespoon white miso

1 1/2 pounds shrimp, peeled, deveined and tails removed

1/4 cup butter

1/4 teaspoon salt

1/8 teaspoon pepper

1 cup mushrooms, sliced

1 red bell pepper, diced

1 cucumber, sliced into half moons

5 green onions, sliced

1 avocado, sliced

1 teaspoon sesame seeds

2 tablespoons cilantro, chopped

Cook quinoa according to package instructions. Set aside.

In medium bowl, whisk orange juice, hot sauce, honey, soy sauce, vegetable oil, lime juice and miso until combined. Pour 1/4 of liquid into separate bowl. Set aside.

Add shrimp to remaining mixture and marinate 15 minutes. Heat large skillet over medium heat with butter. Add shrimp, salt and pepper. Cook 2 minutes on each side until pink. Add mushrooms and cook until tender.

In two serving bowls, divide quinoa, bell pepper, cucumber, onions, avocado and shrimp. Sprinkle sesame seeds and cilantro over both bowls. Drizzle with reserved dressing.

Start the New Year with a Savory Salad

Starting the new year with fresh

citizennewspapergroup.com

intentions, whether you’re trying to reset for 2023 or simply add more greens to your meals, begins with delicious, nutritious and easy recipes.

With more than 100 varieties of fresh, healthy and convenient ready-to-eat salads, Fresh Express provides plenty of inspiration, information and incentives to help you achieve your goals. For example, this Pesto Pasta Salad features red lentil rotini and Twisted Pesto Caesar Chopped Salad Kits loaded with a fresh blend of crisp iceberg and green leaf lettuces, crunchy garlic brioche croutons, Parmesan cheese and creamy pesto dressing. Add fresh grape tomatoes and toasted walnuts for a simple side or easy lunch that can be made ahead of time. Discover more fresh recipe ideas at FreshExpress.com.