Hyde Park Citizen 12-14-2022

Erika Allen is the co-founder and CEO of Urban Growers Collective, president of Green ERA Educational NFP, and co-owner of Green Era Sustainability Partners. PHOTO BY TONIKA JOHNSON.

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CITY OF CHICAGO REACHES $10

MILLION SETTLEMENT WITH UBER EATS, POSTMATES

CHICAGO — The City of Chicago announces that Uber has agreed to a settlement stemming from the City’s investigation into UberEats’ and Postmates’ practices of listing Chicago restaurants on their platforms without the restaurants’ consent, being in violation of the City’s emergency fee cap ordinance, and other advertisingrelated conduct. The City acknowledges Uber’s cooperation in bringing this investigation to closure.

Under the settlement terms:

In September 2021, in response to the City’s discovery of unlawful conduct, Uber quickly repaid $3,331,892 to Chicago restaurants that had been charged commissions exceeding 15%, in violation of the City’s emergency fee cap ordinance.

Uber will pay an additional $2,250,000 to Chicago restaurants that were charged commissions in excess of the limits set by the City’s emergency fee cap.

After reaching out to Uber in 2021, the company removed all remaining Chicago restaurants that had been listed on Uber’s platforms without consent and agreed not to list Chicago restaurants without consent in the future.

Uber will pay $500,000 to Chicago restaurants that Uber listed on its meal delivery platforms without consent and that do not currently contract with Uber.

Uber will provide $2,500,000 in commission waivers to Chicago restaurants that were listed on Uber’s platforms without consent and that do not currently contract with Uber.

Uber will pay $1,500,000 to the City to cover the costs and fees of its investigation.

Restaurants previously listed on Uber’s platforms without consent should visit Chicago.gov/UberSettlement and follow the instructions to receive financial relief and commission waivers. Restaurants that were charged commissions in excess of the fee cap in 2021 will receive payment automatically from Uber.

A link to the complete Settlement Agreement can be found at Chicago.gov/UberSettlement.

NEED EXTRA CASH THIS HOLIDAY SEASON?  YOU MAY HAVE CASH OR PROPERTY WAITING TO BE CLAIMED AT ILLINOISTREASURER.GOV/ICASH

SPRINGFIELD – Kringle, Santa, Claus, Rudolph, Gift, Noel and Merry are among the millions of names in Illinois’ unclaimed property database with cash and property waiting to be claimed, Illinois State Treasurer Michael Frerichs said.

“We return unclaimed property year-round, but it’s that time of year when reuniting extra money and keepsakes with their rightful owners is even more special,” Frerichs said. “Check our database at www. illinoistreasurer.gov/ICASH to find out if you have some extra holiday cash or property to claim.”

What is unclaimed property? It is money or accounts within financial institutions or companies in which there has been no activity for several years and the legal owner has not responded to inquiries by the business. In Illinois, the state treasurer is tasked with safeguarding unclaimed property, such as unpaid life insurance benefits, forgotten bank accounts and unused rebate cards

Unclaimed property is reported to the treasurer’s office two times each year, so it is recommended that individuals check the database every six months.

An estimated one-in-four adults in Illinois who search the treasurer’s database find unclaimed property, and the average claim is $1,000. Frerichs has returned $1.5 billion in unclaimed property during his tenure, setting records along the way.

Urban Growers Collective co-founder to receive Honorary Degree

Continued from page 1

BY TIA CAROL JONES

Allen is the co-founder of Urban Growers Collective, president of Green ERA Educational NFP and co-owner of Green Era Sustainability Partners. On Saturday, Dec. 10th, Allen received an Honorary Ph.D. in Public Health from the University of Illinois Chicago.

Allen’s thesis was about creating a program around alternative sentencing for teens, instead of incarceration. She saw a need to pivot into food, from art, which was her undergraduate major at the School of the Art Institute of Chicago. She grew up farming and could see an economic opportunity. She connected the dots, saw after 9/11 how food insecure Chicago was, and how people around her age didn’t know how to grow food. Allen wanted to alleviate poverty, structural racism, violence through wealth building.

Urban Growers Collective was founded in 2017, with a mission to develop community-based food systems and support communities to develop systems to grow, distribute and prepare food within those communities.

Urban Growers Collective has eight farms located in NewCity, Altgeld Gardens, South Chicago, Jackson Park, one at 60th and King Drive, Englewood, Bronzeville, and Grant Park. In addition to those farms, the Green Era Campus in Auburn Gresham will be the site of an anaerobic digester, urban farm, retail store and nursery, community education center and green space.

Allen believes that Black women have been historically exploited for their talent and ability to lead in agriculture and there is

unaddressed pain and trauma, because of racism and terror.

“It was really hard for me to continue to hear young people talk about food and gardening as slave work and be more and more disconnected from the land and from the earth and to not know where food comes from, to not know we used to have vibrant food systems in our neighborhoods,” Allen said.

It has been personally rewarding for Allen to inspire her team and the 180-plus teens in the youth programs that Urban Growers Collective facilitates.

Last year, Fresh Moves Mobile Market, had 30,000 customers. It takes produce from the Urban Growers Collective Farms, and other nutritionally dense foods to 13 communities on the South and West sides.

“We offer vouchers, so there’s no financial barrier and people can shop, too. We’re making food a human right and utilizing the abundance of resources to support that,” Allen said, adding it is something she is very proud of.

“I love that I’m being recognized by Public Health, because poverty and all of its companions -- structural violence, structural racism, lack of resources -- all impact our Public Health, impact how long we live. Some of the things we’re doing is bringing joy and stability to our communities. We’re youth serving first and when our young people are cared for, that signals to the community that we have a future,” Allen said.

For more information about Urban Growers Collective, visit urbangrowerscollective.org. For more information about Green Era, visit www.greenerachicago.org.

University of Chicago Highlighted in French State Visit to United States

WASHINGTON – On Wednesday, Nov. 30, during French President Emmanuel Macron’s state visit to the US, the University of Chicago (UChicago) and the French National Center for Scientific Research (CNRS) signed an agreement at the French Embassy in Washington, DC to establish the International Research Center for Fundamental Scientific Discovery (IRC Discovery), a new collaboration that will bring together some of the world’s leading researchers to collaborate on answering the biggest questions of our time.

IRC Discovery is only the fourth CNRS International Research Center in the world and the second in the US. Anchored on UChicago’s Hyde Park campus and CNRS headquarters in Paris, it will convene researchers across disciplines to identify large-scale interdisciplinary projects in energy, communication technologies, climate, mobility, health, and political and social sciences, to name a few. Combining research capabilities at UChicago, and the 1,144 affiliated research labs and 30K+ dedicated researchers, engineers, and technicians at the CNRS, this new center will leverage robust networks and large-scale investments in scientific infrastructures.

“Addressing the world’s greatest challenges requires deliberate international partnership that brings together intellectual assets and infrastructure at scale,” said Paul Alivisatos, president of UChicago. “This new partnership is a great example of peer institutions committing their resources to reduce barriers to effective collaboration and accelerate solutions to global issues.”

“As the CNRS is multidisciplinary by nature, we seek prestigious partners with equivalent capabilities, with whom we can work hand in hand to pursue basic research for the benefit of society and find solutions to the societal challenges we are facing,” said Antoine Petit, the chairman and chief executive officer of CNRS. “IRCs enable the leadership of the CNRS to communicate directly with its counterpart at the

partnering institution, in order to provide responses that meet the ambitions of scientists in conducting their projects.”

By consolidating research and educational initiatives and developing a dynamic hub of activity between UChicago and the CNRS, IRC Discovery is positioned to scale up and amplify the impact of fundamental discovery. It will provide a venue for collaborative research and student exchange as well as additional programming such as joint workshops and public-facing events. Researchers with IRC Discovery will have access to resources from the CNRS and UChicago, including UChicago’s expanded physical footprint in Paris, a new Jeanne Gang-designed building and research institute now under construction.

IRC Discovery is the latest expansion in a deep, long-standing relationship between UChicago and France. It builds on U.S-France Science and Technology Cooperation, a framework that underscores the importance the two countries place on prioritizing research collaboration on wide-ranging topics such as quantum science and sustainability, as well as the UChicago-CNRS Research Collaboration Program, which supports research and training for PhD students at both institutions. The UChicago/France relationship also reflects the strong bonds between Chicago and Paris, as well as the research potential of regional initiatives such as the Chicago Quantum Exchange.

UChicago and CNRS have nurtured close researcher relationships for decades. While most of the collaboration has revolved around physics, chemistry, astronomy, and astrophysics, other areas of co-publications attest to a wide range of collaboration across disciplines such as mathematics, biology, environmental sciences and humanities. Over the past several years, the relationship between UChicago and CNRS has been broadened under several expanded partnership programs and themes, and the broader scope of IRC Discovery will facilitate greater cross-disciplinary collaboration between the institutions.

Museum of Ice Cream’s legen-dairy Pinkmas celebration is back with new ways to celebrate

CHICAGO, ILLINOIS – Museum of Ice Cream’s annual Pinkmas celebration runs through Monday, Jan. 9. Visitors will add a little sprinkle of joy to their holiday as they embark on a magical journey across more than 13,000 square feet of delicious treats, festive crafts, a larger-than-life snow globe, and much more! The

Pinkmas experience will be filled with interactive moments and limited-time activations as guests sprinkle all the way through MOIC’s Pinkmas tree forest, build a take-home paper gingerbread house as part of the craft activity, and sample all the flavors that celebrate the spirit of the season.

Visitors are invited to attend with friends and loved ones in their pink’est holiday looks to create new traditions and celebrate their own. Upon arrival, one and all will warm their mittens with pink hot chocolate before exploring a magical

gingerbread town. Scoops of all ages and flavors will remember what it’s like to be a kid, as they step inside MOIC’s first-ever life-sized snow globe and capture that perfect pic for this season’s holiday card! All Pinkmas ticket holders will enjoy unlimited ice cream treats, including pink peppermint soft serve topped with a maraschino cherry, red cotton candy, hard scoops with candy cane sprinkles, “milk” and cookies soft serve with chocolate chip cookie bites, and MOIC Chicago’s signature hotdog treat.

The MOIC Cafe will also offer a selection of seasonal cocktails and treats celebrating the flavors of the season. When purchasing tickets, guests can add on boozy shakes, signature scoops, sundaes, and more to receive a sweet discount! After a dip in MOIC’s world-famous Sprinkle Pool, visitors can indulge in a Gingerbread Milkshake

topped with whipped cream, sprinkles and a festive gingerbread cookie or warm up with Mulled Apple Cider made with Fireball, apple cider and red wine. For something more classic, melt into MOIC’s world-famous Sprinkle Pool Sundae overflowing with a choice of three scoops, caramel, whipped cream, and Pinkmas-inspired sprinkles. For legendairy fun and unique treats at every turn, Museum of Ice Cream is the only spot to experience the most wonderful time of year at the sweetest place on earth!

Museum of Ice Cream Chicago is open Thursday through Monday, and is located at The Shops at Tribune Tower at 435 N. Michigan Ave. Limited tickets for Pinkmas are priced from $25-$44, and are free for children aged 2 and below. Tickets can be reserved through Monday, Jan. 9, at museumoficecream.com/book-chicago. For more updates and announcements, sign up for Museum of Ice Cream’s newsletter at museumoficecream.com/getthelatestscoop and follow along at @museumoficecream. Museum of Ice Cream transforms concepts and dreams into spaces that provoke imagination and creativity. MOIC is designed to be a culturally inclusive environment and community, inspiring human connection and imagination through the universal power of ice cream. Museum of Ice Cream is a Figure8 brand.

PRSA Chicago Expands Michelle Flowers Diversity Fellowship for 2023

POLITICAL AFFAIRS

METROPOLITAN WATER RECLAMATION DISTRICT OF GREATER CHICAGO BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS NAMES MAIN OFFICE BUILDING AFTER “BARBARA J. MCGOWAN”

The Metropolitan Water Reclamation District of Greater Chicago Board of Commissioners and staff will officially dedicated 100 E. Erie Street, Chicago, IL, as the “Barbara J. McGowan Main Office Building”.

Vice President McGowan has been a voice of reason, a defender of the water environment, equal opportunity advocate, promoter of diversity and pillar on the MWRD Board of Commissioners for over 24 years. She participated in her last Board of Commissioners’ meeting on Nov. 17.

McGowan was the first African American Vice President at the MWRD; she served as the first interim African American female President in December 2012 and December 2014; and she is the third longest serving Commissioner in the MWRD’s history. She was a backbone on the Board of Commissioners, working to provide guidance and financial oversight and establish policies and procedures in meeting the MWRD’s objective of protecting the regional water environment for more than 5 million residents from Chicago and 128 surrounding municipalities.

COOK COUNTY CLERK’S OFFICE KICKS OFF SCHOOL BOARD CANDIDATE FILING FOR APRIL CONSOLIDATED ELECTION

More than 700 candidates from 145 suburban school districts are expected to file paperwork to run for seats on local school boards as the Cook County Clerk’s Office kicks off candidate filing on Monday, December 12, for the April 2023 Consolidated Election.

Suburban School Board candidates must file their paperwork with the Clerk’s Office between December 12 and December 19 to place their names on the 2023 ballot for the April 4 election. Filing will take place at the Clerk’s downtown Chicago office, as well as at the Clerk’s Elections Operations Center in Cicero. In addition, on the first day of filing (December 12), the Clerk’s Office will conduct candidate filing at suburban locations in Orland Park and Mount Prospect.

Regardless of the location where they file the paperwork, all candidates who are in line by 8 a.m. on December 12th will have their papers time stamped and will be entered into a lottery to win top placement on the ballot. Candidates for the same office who file between 4 p.m. and 5 p.m. on December 19, the last day of filing, will also be included in a ballot lottery for the last spot on the ballot. Anyone who files between 8:01 a.m. on December 12 and 3:59 p.m. on December 19 will be on the ballot in the order in which they turned in their nomination paperwork.

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

CHICAGO, PRNewswire -- The Chicago Chapter of the Public Relations Society of America (PRSA Chicago), one of the country’s largest chapters, is proud to open applications for the third annual Michelle Flowers Diversity Fellowship. Established in 2020, the initiative was created to grow the pipeline of upcoming multicultural talent in the field of public relations and communications.

New this year, PRSA Chicago has expanded the Diversity Fellowship Program and will award four individual scholarships in the amount of $2,500. Current freshmen, sophomores, juniors, and non-graduating seniors attending Illinois-based institutions are eligible to apply. The award will also include a summer internship at a Chicago agency affiliated with PRSA Chicago.

By providing financial assistance and employment opportunities, PRSA Chicago aims to attract, train and retain people of color to the practice of public relations and communications. The Diversity Fellowship pays tribute to the meaningful contributions of Michelle Flowers Welch, an award-winning expert in the field of multicultural communications. The visionary public relations and marketing entrepreneur founded Flowers Communications Group, one of

the nation’s top multicultural integrated marketing agencies, in 1991. A strategic, innovative thought leader, Flowers Welch serves as a trusted senior counselor to clients and an inspiring mentor to young professionals.

Awards will be presented to students who major in communications or related field and are African-American/Black, Hispanic or Latina/o/x/e, Arab/West Asian, East and Southeast Asian, South Asian, Native Hawaiian or other Pacific Islander, Indigenous/Native American, or two or more races. Membership in the Public Relations Student Society of America (PRSSA) is preferred, but is not a requirement. The two fellows will be announced in February 2023. Interested college students can visit www.michelleflowersfellowship.com to learn more and apply for the fellowship.

PRSA Chicago and its 2022 Board of Directors aim to advance the profession of public relations, promote high professional and ethical standards and build the reputation of the profession in the Chicago area through chapter programming, events and initiatives. To learn more or to apply for a membership visit PRSAChicago.com. Stay connected with us on LinkedIn, Facebook or Twitter.

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Information about how to file to be a school board candidate can be found on the Clerk’s website, on the Info For Candidates 2023 Page. ( https:// www.cookcountyclerkil.gov/elections/candidates-and-elected-officials/2023info-candidates)

Candidates running for other local offices besides school boards such as towns, villages, townships, library districts, college districts, fire protection districts, and park boards, must file candidate paperwork with the municipality in which they are seeking election.

REP. CASTEN VOTES TO ENSHRINE MARRIAGE EQUALITY UNDER FEDERAL LAW

Amid extreme and continued threats to Illinoisan’s personal freedoms, recently, Rep. Casten voted to send the Respect for Marriage Act to President Biden’s desk. This landmark legislation takes several key steps to defend marriage equality: officially repealing the “Defense of Marriage Act” (DOMA), upholding couples’ right to equal protection under federal law and requiring states to recognize valid out-of-state marriages.

“The Supreme Court has made clear that it intends to further roll back our fundamental rights, including marriage equality. We cannot allow them to take away the right to marry who you love,” said Rep. Casten. “This bill is a historic step forward in that fight – sending a clear signal that hate and bigotry have no place in America, and is a recommitment to racial and sexual equality. This landmark legislation will uphold marriage equality under federal law, enshrining married couples’ right to equal protection and barring discriminatory officials from invalidating out-of-state marriages. I’m extremely proud to vote for love and send this bill to the President’s desk.”

The Respect for Marriage Act takes several steps to protect the inviolability of same-sex and interracial marriages:

· Repealing the “Defense of Marriage Act”: While the Supreme Court has effectively voided DOMA, this unconstitutional and discriminatory federal law still remains on the books. The Respect for Marriage Act will repeal this statute once and for all.

· Enshrining Marriage Equality Into Federal Law: This legislation will uphold married couples’ right to equal protection in all areas covered under federal law, such as Social Security, tax filings and veterans’ benefits.

· Barring Discrimination By State Officials: This legislation prohibits state officials from denying recognition of an out-of-state marriage on the basis of sex, race, ethnicity or national origin.

Previously passed by the House earlier this year, the Respect for Marriage Act was amended and advanced by the Senate last week. With today’s vote in the House, the final bill now heads to the President’s desk for his signature.

“LIZZIE G” ELIE LICENSED REALTOR

ELIZABETH

MOIC

Association of African American Financial Advisors Announces New Leadership

WASHINGTON, PRNewswire -- The Association of African American Financial Advisors (“AAAA” or the “Association”), a non-profit membership organization for African American financial advisors and other wealth management industry professionals, announced the appointment of Alex David, President and CEO of Stifel Independent Advisors, as its incoming Chairman Emeritus. In this position, Mr. David will provide strategic guidance to the Association as it embarks upon the next stage of its vision for driving a more equitable wealth management industry.

The appointment of Mr. David to this role is occurring in connection to the decision of the Association’s Founder LeCount Davis, MBA, CFP®, a widely recognized wealth management industry pioneer, to eventually transition to a chief advisory role. He will remain Chairman Emeritus and a member of the AAAA Board of Directors in 2023. Christian Nwasike, MFP®, will continue to serve as Chairman of the Board, providing day-to-day leadership of the Association. Mr. Nwasike is also principal and executive managing partner with Practice Management Consultants, LLC, a consultancy focused on coaching African American financial advisors to achieve greater business growth and success.

New Strategic Initiatives to Drive Greater Representation

“Our ability to create impactful change across the wealth management space is embedded in the Association’s incredibly strong foundations that were principally built by LeCount Davis,” said Mr. Nwasike.

Related to its leadership transition, the Association is in the process of building out a multi-racial Advisory Board of C-suite leaders across the wealth management space, part of a larger initiative to develop new programs to advocate for additional Black and diverse C-suite leadership while supporting young Black professionals seeking opportunities in the financial advisory space. It will further engage with the Black community to enhance

financial education and address the racial wealth gap in the United States.

By the Numbers

According to industry statistics, while there are approximately 700,000 financial advisors serving communities across the country, there are only 60,000 Black Series 7 and Series 65 license holders and IARs, or 8% of the total advisor population. The most recent U.S. Census data suggested the Black and African American communities represent about 14.6% of the U.S. population.

Working with Historically Black Colleges and Universities, Top Firms

Additionally, AAAA plans to intensify its work with historically Black colleges and universities, including Howard University, Morehouse College and Spelman College, to increase awareness of this profession with graduates and young professionals so to immediately address the Black advisor shortage. The organization will also strengthen its partnership with top firms Wells Fargo, Merrill, J.P. Morgan & Co., and Edward Jones.

“According to independent research, the Black community is spending close to $2 trillion per year,” said AAAA Board Member Alleson Tate CFP®. “Our membership has dedicated their professional lives to helping their clients build and sustain their financial well-being.”

Meet the Investors and Leaders of the New Keller Williams ONEChicago - South Side

CHICAGO, PRNewswire -- Keller Williams ONEChicago has announced it is welcoming three new investors and promoting one of its leaders as it prepares to open a new office location on the South Side of Chicago. The forthcoming space is part of the Keller Williams (KW) commitment to creating more equitable opportunities for home buyers, sellers, and agents. A grand opening celebration is planned for the first quarter of 2023.

Four influential agents will invest in and lead the new office, team, and operations. One is a long-time Keller Williams agent and leader, and three are new to the company.

La’Dweena Smith is the current Chief Executive Officer of Keller Williams ONEChicago, and has been with KW since 2008. She began her KW leadership journey in 2016 as a Productivity Coach and has been involved in several KW office launches. She will continue her role across all ONEChicago locations, including the South Side.

Nate Thompson most recently served as the designated Managing Broker for the Baird & Warner South Loop and Northwest Indiana office. He was named the “2020 Managing Broker of the Year” by Chicago Agent Magazine. His role as Designated Managing Broker for KW ONEChicago will expand to include the new location. He has also been named Senior Vice President, Compliance for all locations.

Jerome Harper began his real estate career in 2000, and most recently, he was the Assistant Manager for the Baird & Warner South Loop and Northwest Indiana office. He is also a Chicago Association of REALTORS Neighborhood Award winner. His role in the growth department will include the location. He has also been named Senior Vice President, Growth for all locations.

Rashauna Scott has over a decade of experience in real estate. She joins Keller Williams from Kale Realty and was named “Top Producer,” by the Chicago Association of Realtors,

two years in a row. Rashauna is a Mega Agent and will have responsibilities for business development across the footprint of the new office.

“These core leaders showcase our enduring commitment to the growth of our diverse associates into key leadership positions across our brand,” said Julia Lashay Israel, Head of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion, Keller Williams.

This expansion is further supported by Joe Zimmerman, ONEChicago’s Principal Investor, and Dan Holt, Keller Williams Mid-America’s Regional Director.

“Each of us are familiar with the South Side of Chicago, having grown up in the area, visiting loved ones who live there, and doing business in its neighborhoods,” Thompson says. “The South Side is essential to the vibrancy of Chicago, and this new space is our way of making sure home buyers, sellers, and agents in the area have the real estate expertise needed for our neighborhoods to thrive.”

“Real estate is the best investment for our neighborhoods,” Scott adds. “Our goal is to help the community navigate through the challenges of home ownership and create generational wealth. We are honored by this opportunity to provide sophisticated service, support, and education in the communities that are near and dear to our hearts.”

In 2020, Keller Williams Realty, Inc. added “Equity” to its Belief System (WI4C2TES – win-win, integrity, customers, commitment, communication, creativity, teamwork, trust, equity, and success). This includes more opportunities for agents of color and ensuring KW offers resources to support people in all areas and from all backgrounds. Holt appreciates that this new office allows diverse agents to have ownership in Keller Williams. “KW is all about investing in our people and our neighborhoods. I am excited this office will add value to more neighborhoods in our region.”

“Being that Chicago is the ‘birthplace of the Fair Housing Act, led by Martin Luther King Jr. and the Freedom Movement, there is no better place than Southside of Chicago to continue this important work,” Israel says.

The investors’ top priorities are bringing market expertise to across the south side where communities have been historically underserved.

“We are looking forward to opening the doors, but for now, we want to let everyone know we are coming. If you are passionate about this city, now is the time to join our team or reach out to our agents to assist with buying or selling,” says Smith.

Keller Williams Realty Inc. recently partnered with Kaplan, Inc. to develop a new digital real estate school. Keller Williams also offers numerous financial assistance programs that allow aspiring and existing agents to take classes through the online school.

“In addition to helping clients buy and sell real estate, we are helping people build wealth and achieve their professional goals,” Harper adds. “We understand that representation can be a catalyst for change and are excited to bring educational resources to the south side–including pre-licensing courses at no cost to the student. This allows us to license the next generation of real estate professionals from these communities.”

Zimmerman, who will also serve as Principal Investor of the South Side office, says, “This opportunity exemplifies Keller Williams’s support for our careers, its ability to attract top agents, and its commitment to buyers and sellers. All four of our new investors are eager to grow KW as we support new and prospective agents and customers alike.”

Those interested in working with Keller Williams as an agent or customer, should visit https://kwONEChicago.com/ to learn more.

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UNLESS COLLECTIVE PARTNERS WITH NFW TO DEBUT WORLD’S FIRST REGENERATIVE SNEAKER “THE DEGENERATE”

PORTLAND, Ore., PRNewswire -- UNLESS Collective, the world’s first 100% plant-and-mineral-based fashion brand, has partnered with NFW (Natural Fiber Welding), a plant-based material innovation company, to debut the world’s first regenerative sneaker – the best shoe for the planet.

The UNLESS DEGENERATE is made with 100% plants and minerals and zero plastic and is created to harmlessly decompose at the end of its life to birth something entirely new. It is the first product to feature all of NFW’s revolutionary plant-based material technologies that are durable enough for outsoles and soft enough for cushioning goals. Everything about this regenerative sneaker, from the plant-based leather to the natural rubber outsole to the tips of the laces, is made entirely from plants and minerals.

The DEGENERATE is the latest offering from UNLESS designed to attack the problem of plastic waste in the fashion industry. More than 24 billion pairs of shoes are made every year and 300 million pairs are thrown away. The vast majority of shoes are made with plastics and other petrochemicals, which break down into harmful micro-plastics that find their way into our rivers and oceans, our food and even our bodies.

The skate-inspired statement sneaker is durable, comfortable and, unlike conventional sustainable footwear, contains zero plastics or petrochemicals. The DEGENERATE features a cleaned up, stripped down upper with a deep cup-sole to create a strong, simple silhouette inspired by UNLESS’ birthplace: the Pacific Northwest.

UNLESS takes responsibility for everything that it makes and ensures all their products can be repaired, recycled or harmlessly decomposed at the end of their useful life.

“The DEGENERATE is for anyone who doesn’t want to compromise their style to do what’s right for the planet.,” said Eric Liedtke, co-founder and CEO of UNLESS Collective. “And thanks to NFW’s unparalleled innovation in plant-based material technology, this sneaker will live a long, useful life … and when it’s no longer useful, it will be turned into valuable inputs for new soil products, allowing UNLESS to use the decomposition process to birth something entirely new.”

The DEGENERATE combines NFW’s PLIANT™ for the outsole, TUNERA™ foam for the internal midsole, CLARUS® for the vamp and quarter, and MIRUM® for the eyelet and mudguard, along with low-impact textiles like linen, cotton embroidered lace tips, coconut husk, tencel and thread.

“NFW is excited to partner with UNLESS to create a breakthrough in lifestyle sneaker design, with the first-ever product to combine all of NFW’s biobased materials to create a 100% plant-and-mineral-based shoe,” said Luke Haverhals, founder and CEO of NFW. “This is the first shoe of its kind made with entirely natural inputs that is truly circular, meaning it can be recycled or safely returned to nature to become nutrients for healthy soil or provide inputs for the next cycle of consumer products.”

The UNLESS DEGENERATE is available in off-white and black colorways for $139 at UNLESSCollective.com. The first drop of this limited-edition sneaker is expected to sell out quickly, customers can sign up for the email list on UNLESSCollective.com for future restocks.

UNLESS is a regenerative fashion company. UNLESS makes statement clothing and footwear from all plants, no plastic and operates the world’s first regenerative fashion platform — connecting material, design, manufacturing and composting to use plant-based innovation and production ingenuity to solve for a plastic-free future. Visit https://unlesscollective.com for more information.

NFW’s beautiful and practical nutrient-based materials are highly scalable, sustainable solutions that are transforming industries. NFW is reducing overdependence on petrochemical inputs and linear life cycles by using plants in inherently circular, efficient ways. NFW delivers ultimate performance so that brand customers do not have to compromise. NFW was founded in 2015 and is based in Peoria, Illinois. To learn more, please visit: www.naturalfiberwelding.com.

Scottie Pippen and Orange Comet Team Up For Exclusive Metawear Digital Sneakers Collaboration

LOS ANGELES, PRNewswire -- Orange Comet, Inc., a leading Web3 entertainment company, announces its collaboration with basketball legend Scottie Pippen, celebrating the Hall of Famer’s love for the game and his passion for sneakers. This original, dynamic, and limited edition collection marks Orange Comet’s debut into digital wearable fashion. The virtual wearable cross-platform sneakers combined with exciting utility introduces web3 and sneakerhead audiences to digital wearables for the future with “Metawear.”

Orange Comet’s uber design team has created a series of unique worlds where digital and physical wearables will be born from: Modern Day, Futurist, Transcendent, and Planetary. Each NFT sneaker will not only feature Orange Comet’s signature 3D animations, but it will also be built as a Metaverse-Ready digital asset – ready to be worn in just about any ecosystem.

This special limited collection, dropping December 20th on OpenSea, will consist of only 1000 pairs of Pippen Sneaker NFTs, known as the SP33 Collection. Inspired by Pippen’s incredible legacy, the company continues to elevate fan experiences — in and out of the metaverse — uniting one of the greatest NBA players of all time with fans in innovative and interactive ways never seen before.

“I’m so excited to bring my fans a newfound way to be part of my life, my basketball career, and my love of sneakers through this special NFT collaboration with Orange Comet,” said Basketball Hall of Famer Scottie Pippen. “I’m deeply committed to staying connected with audiences everywhere and the metaverse is making that possible by enabling unique and out-of-the-box moments that bring people into my world on a personal level. This is such an interesting time in culture and it’s been an eye-opening journey learning about web3, and then getting to work with Orange Comet’s creative team to launch this special and personal collection that speaks to the future of fan engagement and sneaker culture.”

This exclusive partnership with Pippen highlights Orange Comet’s first foray into the fashion space as the company is making significant investments in its “Metawear” business to be known as Orange Comet Cørrupted, which will include HardWear for physical products and SoftWear

for digital products, digital wearables, and digital experiences. Cørrupted wear will feature extraordinary one-of-a-kind wearables and in partnership with some of the biggest collaborations the industry has ever seen.

Announced by Scottie Pippen on December 1, the collection combines Pippen’s love for sneakers, his basketball legacy, and his curiosity into web3 through the creation of his first metawear sneaker line with Orange Comet. All 1000 sneaker NFT holders will receive metaverse ready digital assets—ready to be worn in many different virtual ecosystems—plus additional utility benefits. Accompanying each pair of sneakers is a mystery box that can be claimed by each holder, which will be unlocked in 2023 for those who hold on to it until the future reveal. The mystery box is intended to be a work-of-art, all on its own. Additionally, all 1000 owners of these metawear sneakers will get Allow List access to Orange Comet’s Cørrupted physical and digital wearables coming in 2023.

The collection features exciting premium and rare utility. One (1) NFT holder (plus their one guest) will get a VIP hometown tour with Scottie Pippen to see where the legacy started. The experience includes a private dinner with the NBA legend. Two (2) NFT holders (each with a guest) at random will receive a private golf outing with Scottie Pippen that includes a lunch after the 18 exciting holes. Thirty-three (33) NFTs holders will be randomly selected to receive a pair of physical sneakers autographed by Scottie, and additional thirty-three (33) holders will receive a QR Code to redeem $100 off any purchase from a notable sneaker lifestyle brand.

Currently, fans can sign up for exclusive early access to this NFT collection via the Scottie Pippen Allow List on ScottiePippenNFTs.com. In addition to early access, three hundred and thirty three (333) allowlist members’ wallets will be randomly selected to receive a future free special edition Pippen NFT basketball presented in a state-of-the-art glass case, a true masterpiece on its own, designed by Orange Comet, gifted from Scottie Pippen to his allowlist members.

For the latest information and early looks at these sneaker designs, fans can visit Orange Comet’s Scottie Pippen NFT collection at ScottiePippenNFTs.com.

PRNewsfoto/Orange Comet

The DEGENERATE. PRNewsFoto.

McDonald’s USA Partners with Thurgood Marshall College Fund (TMCF) and Alkeme to Deepen Its Commitment to Support HBCU Students Financial and Mental Health Needs

CHICAGO, PRNewswire -- McDonald’s has remained committed to feeding and fostering communities when they need it most, starting with a warm meal and a smile. As part of this commitment, the company has long supported Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) through departmental funding, sports sponsorships and student scholarships.

For the 2023-2024 academic year, the Golden Arches, with its Owner/Operators and partners, will increase resources and investment to more HBCU students through the Black & Positively Golden Scholarship Program, providing access to mental health resources and awarding $1 million in scholarships, up from $500,000 in 2022. College students should be able to focus on their studies and create unforgettable memories with new friends, but socioeconomic and pandemic-related concerns continue to impact Black students at HBCUs, leaving many in need of financial and mental health aid. As stated in a May 2022 study by the American Psychological Association, “HBCU students report that student loan repayment, financial assistance and education, and future educational expenses, are major contributing factors to stress.” So, McDonald’s partnered with Thurgood Marshall College Fund (TMCF) and Alkeme to relieve some of this pressure.

“As HBCU students invest in their future and passions, McDonald’s and its franchisees remain committed to providing the tools and resources they need to help them succeed, “said Courtney Holeman, Greater Richmond, Virginia McDonald’s Franchisee. “Through meaningful partnerships like this, we can ensure students are well-equipped to confidently manage their finances and care for their mental health on their journey to academic success.”

Recipients will also receive a year-long subscription to Alkeme, a Black-owned streaming platform that provides therapist and expert-led wellbeing courses, guided meditation and livestream sessions centered around the Black experience. Through this new partnership with Alkeme, students will be able to access curated customized content and resources that center the HBCU experience and empower students to achieve their personal goals.

Applications are open now through March 27, 2023, at 11:59 p.m. EST to incoming and current

HBCU students at tmcf.org, with winners being announced in Summer 2023.

“It’s important to build a community of culturally competent practitioners who truly understand and represent the Black experience to best support the needs of Black students,” said Ryan Mundy, founder of Alkeme Health. “We want to empower our community to be the best and highest versions of themselves, and that is why we are honored to partner with McDonald’s to help remove mental health barriers for HBCU students and provide resources to inspire wellness.”

Launched in 2020 to help HBCU students across the country break through financial barriers of achieving education in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic, the Black & Positively Golden Scholarship Program is committed to supporting and empowering the next generation of leaders across the country through monetary support and resources.

“The Thurgood Marshall College Fund is dedicated to helping transform the lives of students at HBCUs by preparing them for the next generation of leadership in the workforce and in life,” said Dr. Harry L. Williams, President and CEO of the Thurgood Marshall College Fund (TMCF). “We, alongside our more than 20-yearlong partners at McDonald’s, remain committed to providing the support needed for Black students to succeed at all levels.”

Students interested in applying for the Black & Positively Golden Scholarship Program must meet the following eligibility requirements:

Be 18 years old or older

Be enrolled full-time as a freshman, sophomore, junior or senior attending an HBCU during the 2023-2024 academic school year

Have a current cumulative grade point average of 2.7 or higher

Demonstrate leadership abilities and financial need

Be a U.S. citizen or legal permanent resident with a valid permanent resident card or passport stamped I-551

To learn more about our Black & Positively Golden movement and scholarship, follow @wearegolden on Instagram and visit www.blackandpositivelygolden.com.a

New Report: Black Washingtonians identify community solutions to longstanding structural inequities

SEATTLE — The Black Future Co-op Fund, Washington state’s first Black-led cooperative philanthropy, today released a monumental report, Black Well-being: Moving Toward Solutions Together. It aims to inform policy change, support collective organizing and direct resources into building Black generational wealth, health and well-being statewide.

“This Black Well-being report is a tool for advocacy and policy change and for building power,” said Andrea Caupain Sanderson, co-architect of the Black Future Co-op Fund. “It is time we implement our own community solutions to manifest Black well-being statewide. The current systems are failing us—they were designed that way.”

The report elevates community identified approaches to tackle structural barriers prohibiting Black well-being and that will result in the world Black people envision. It starts with an overview of who makes up the state’s diverse Black population, followed by perceptions of progress, priorities and key metrics that have moved since a 2015 report by Byrd Barr Place, Creating an Equitable Future in Washington State: Black Well-being & Beyond. The rest of the report covers civic engagement, education, economic mobility, public safety and health, outlining contextual factors and community approaches.

“The process of engaging with Black communities across the state to gather the recommendations found in this report illustrates an inherent desire of Black Washingtonians to be involved in developing solutions to longstanding disparities that adversely affect us,” said T’wina Nobles, CEO and co-architect of the Black Future Co-op Fund and Washington state senator, 28th L.D. “Our collective power will certainly propel us forward in galvanizing for positive change.”

Research in the Black Well-being report shows that even if the conditions for building wealth, like equal pay, access to capital, healthy housing and education, were the same for Black people and white people from 1870 to 2020, white households would still have three times as much wealth as Black households.

What the data shows:

Only 1.5% of Washington’s teachers were Black in the 2020-21 school year. Yet, research shows Black students who have at least one Black teacher in grades K-3 are 13% more likely to graduate from high school and 19% more likely to enroll in college than their same-school, same-race peers.

Homeownership—a critical path to wealth-building—was 34% for Black Washingtonians in 2020, almost half of the statewide average of 63.3%.

Despite 93% of Black Washingtonians having health care insurance, the 37% on Medicaid experience major gaps in coverage, limiting their access to care.

A 2022 audit by the Office of the State Auditor discovered that Black voters’ ballots were rejected four times more often than white voters.

Examples of community identified approaches include:

Dismantle systems that harm us and replace them with systems that heal. Center the arts in civics because they are foundational to social change.

Redefine academic standards to recognize and cultivate Black brilliance.

Partner with Black youth to create the jobs of tomorrow

Reflect well-being in employer business models and practices.

The Black Well-being report is grounded in listening and learning from Black Washingtonians, which has included:

Focus groups with community leaders across the state on five topic areas from which common themes were distilled.

A statewide survey of more than 600 Black Washingtonians about priorities, perceptions of progress, and definitions of leadership and accountability.

Panel discussions around the five topic areas to discuss the survey results and community approaches that work for Black communities.

A statewide gathering, featuring the five panel conversations, speakers and artists to explore the themes and community-identified approaches; more than 150 watch parties tuned in online and 75 people participated in person at Seattle, Tacoma and Spokane.

Black Well-being report collaborators include Byrd Barr Place, Cardea, Imago, Urban League of Metropolitan Seattle, Washington State Budget & Policy Center and Washington State Commission on African American Affairs.

Created by and for Black Washingtonians, the Black Future Co-op Fund is a new paradigm for philanthropy to ignite Black wealth, health, and well-being over generations. Through intentional investment, the Fund works to connect Black communities for collective power, promote a truthful Black narrative, and uplift Black-led solutions that foster Black generational prosperity.

PRNewsFoto.

Sen. Warnock’s Victory Is a Win for Georgia and America

By Ben Jealous

If you haven’t watched Sen. Raphael Warnock’s speech on the night of his reelection in Georgia on December 6, stop everything you’re doing, and watch it now. Then tell your kids to watch it. And your neighbors.

What you’ll see is 20 minutes that will leave you with a deep feeling of inspiration and gratitude, and a question: why was this so hard? How is it that Warnock was so clearly the best candidate and had to prove it four times, in the last two years?

Let’s take the question first.

The surprise victories by Sen. Warnock and Sen. Jon Ossoff in 2021 were triumphs over systemic racism and a vicious misinformation and disinformation campaign by far-right forces. Immediately after they won, Georgia became ground zero for a state voter suppression effort that included harsh crackdowns on early and mail-in voting. The runoff system that Warnock and Republican Herschel Walker were forced into was itself a relic of 1960s white supremacy. It was created by a Georgia segregationist who hoped it would stop Black candidates from winning in a crowded field where white votes were split.

Meanwhile, Walker’s entire campaign was a far-right ploy to split Black votes while giving white Republicans plausible deniability about their party’s racism. Most Black voters saw right through it. But the GOP mustered enormous political firepower and financial resources for their scheme. That made the race close when it never should have been close.

It made Sen. Warnock’s road, which was always going to be hard, even harder.

On the night of his reelection, Sen. Warnock addressed all of this with his usual dignity. He gave the credit to Georgians for electing the state’s first Black and first Jewish senators at a time when the Far Right was trying to divide the country. He took on the

conservative pundits claiming his victory was proof that there was no voter suppression in Georgia. Just because Georgia voters endured long lines in the rain doesn’t mean there is no suppression, he said. It means Georgians refused to have their voices silenced.

The rest of his address showed that Georgia has reelected a senator who values social justice and still believes it can be achieved through representative democracy. Democracy, he said, is the political enactment of a spiritual idea: that each of us carries within us a divine spark. It is a political system that is rooted in the belief that each of us has value, that if we have value we have a voice, and that our voice is our vote. I’m paraphrasing here, and words on the page don’t do justice to Sen. Warnock’s oratory skills. Again, I hope you’ll watch the speech.

Hearing these words at a time when democracy is doubted and under attack is a restorative experience. Hearing Sen. Warnock pledge to work in a bipartisan spirit on behalf of all Americans feels like coming home, to an America where public servants used to believe that was possible. Hearing him say that he will fight for criminal justice reform because he believes we can have both justice and safety struck a personal chord with me. I believe that too, in my bones. My organization, People For the American Way, has dedicated itself to advancing that goal. There are so many solutions we can and should explore that will save lives.

This moment shows us something else, too, which is that a way forward to a better America now runs through the Deep South. Stacey Abrams’s visionary work to organize voters made Georgia a swing state, and others can follow. Almost a decade ago, I worked on a study that showed that registering just 30 percent of unregistered voters of color could change the political landscape in heavily Black southern states. There are still plenty of challenges, but we’re seeing that prediction come true.

CHANCE THE

RAPPER

&

the season to gift

Lottery

SOCIALWORKS KICKS

OFF ITS 4TH ANNUAL “A NIGHT AT THE MUSEUM”

Chance the Rapper is ushering in the holidays with the announcement of SocialWorks’ 4th Annual A Night at the Museum Event taking place from 6 to 10 p.m. Friday, December 16th, at the Museum of Science and Industry, 5700 DuSable Lake Shore Drive. At ‘A Night at the Museum’ (ANATM), SocialWorks and Chance the Rapper reimagine the Museum of Science and Industry as a holiday wonderland. Guests will engage with 50+ event-only vendors, activations, performers, unique Chance opportunities, SocialWorks’ updates, and explore the 400K square foot museum and its exhibits after hours.

The evening acts as a home for giving. A Night at the Museum serves as a donation hub for SocialWorks’ Warmest Winter clothing drive, benefitting Chicagoans experiencing homelessness. All guests are encouraged to bring warming items - coats, scarves, gloves, toys, hygiene items, etc. - to help clothe the most individuals in need. Through thoughtfulness and unity, A Night at the Museum presents an evening filled with family-friendly fun and holiday cheer fueling SocialWorks’ annual Warmest Winter campaign.

SocialWorks’ Warmest Winter aims to provide relief for individuals experiencing homelessness through service, events, and direct support. The annual initiative begins with a Chicagoland area donation drive starting in October, with ‘A Night at the Museum’ as the last time to collect donations publicly. SocialWorks then sorts, counts, and distributes items to shelters and families in need between January and March, the worst of Chicago’s winter season. The Warmest Winter initiative has collected over 156K warming items, directly affecting 81 unique shelters throughout the Chicagoland area. The Warmest Winter campaign has also partnered with Universoul Circus, Top Fashion, Chicago Park District, and more outside of the usual winter campaign to connect low-income families and those experiencing homelessness to the joys of Chicago.

“We’re excited to share the building with over 50+ vendors and showcase some surprises. Thank you to Ben & Jerry’s and all our sponsors and guests attending; your support will help us warm Chicago in the coming months.” shares Justin Cunningham, Executive Director of SocialWorks.

Ben and Jerry’s is among the many supporters of ‘A Night at the Museum.’ As a key sponsor and vendor of this year’s A Night of the Museum event, attendees can expect to see Ben & Jerry’s and Chance the Rapper’s ice cream, Mint Chocolate Chance. Guests can also expect make-and-takes, movie screenings, giveaways, performances from notable Chicago artists, and the full range of the Museum of Science & Industry for the price of admission. Those looking to purchase tickets to ‘A Night at the Museum’ can do so via black-owned ticket company EventNoire.

Tickets are available via https://eventnoire.com/e/anatm2022. To learn more about A Night at the Museum and SocialWorks’ Warmest Winter Initiative, follow @socialworks_chi and visit their website, www. socialworkschi.org.

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responsibly.

games aren’t for kids.

Gi Smart.

Pension debt grows to $139.7 billion

All five pension funds saw losses in FY 2022

BY PETER HANCOCK CAPITOL NEWS ILLINOIS PHANCOCK@CAPITOLNEWSILLINOIS.COM

SPRINGFIELD – Illinois’ unfunded pension liability grew by $9.8 billion, or 7.5 percent, in the fiscal year that ended June 30, due in large part to market losses in a volatile economy.

The Commission on Government Forecasting and Accountability reported Thursday that the total unfunded liability in the state’s five pension funds reached a total of $139.7 billion, leaving them with a funded ratio of just 44.1 percent.

Those numbers are based on an annual report from the state actuary, who reviews the preliminary financial data submitted by each of the five funds.

The funded ratio reflects the difference in the market value of the funds’ assets and the amount of money the funds would need to immediately pay all members the full amounts of benefits they are owed for the rest of time.

Although that’s an important measure of the systems’ long-term financial health, it does not reflect their current ability to pay out benefits that are owed. All five of the pension funds continue to pay out benefits to eligible retirees on a timely basis.

All told, the five pension funds had combined liabilities of $248.8 billion June 30 and total assets of $109.1 billion.

Of the five funds, the Illinois Teachers Retirement System, which is the state’s largest pension fund, showed the strongest performance, losing only 1.2 percent of its market value. In a statement Wednesday, TRS said the median rate of return among large pension systems during the year was -7.6 percent.

The State University Retirement System lost 1.4 percent of its value. The State Employee Retirement System, Judicial Retirement System and General Assembly Retirement System all saw market value losses greater than 6 percent.

Pension systems generally receive funding from three sources – employee contributions; employer contributions; and returns on investments. The large unfunded liability in Illinois’ pension funds is the result of the state failing for decades to make adequate contributions as the employer.

In 1994, then-Gov. Jim Edgar, a Republican, pushed through legislation whereby the state would gradually increase its contributions over the next 50 years until the funding ratio would reach 90 percent by 2045, a plan commonly referred to as the “Edgar Ramp.”

But the state has not always met its targets under that plan. In 2005, lawmakers passed a bill allowing reduced contributions, known as “pension holidays,” in times of budgetary pressure. As a result, contributions in 2006 and 2007 were roughly $1 billion lower than the amounts required under the Edgar Ramp.

The financial crisis in 2007-2008 that led to the Great Recession also resulted in significant losses for the pension funds.

Since taking office in 2019, Democratic Gov. JB Pritzker has included full funding at the statutorily required levels in each of his budgets, and over the past two fiscal years authorized an additional $500 million above what was required by law, bringing the total amount paid in to just under $11 billion, including $9.9 billion from the General Revenue Fund.

Under the 1995 law, each of the funds is required to submit a certification prior to Nov. 1 stating how much the state needs to contribute the following fiscal year.

According to those reports, COGFA said, preliminary estimates show the required contributions for the upcoming fiscal year will total $10.9 billion, including $9.8 billion from general revenues. Even that, however, would be far short of what it would take to cover the actual costs that the funds will accrue during the year.

The “actuarily determined contributions” for the five funds – the amount the state would be obligated to pay, even if the systems were 100-percent funded – would be $15.4 billion.

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

State Treasurer Michael Frerichs Returns $15,328 to Lutheran Social Services of Illinois

SPRINGFIELD – An early holiday gift is being delivered to Lutheran Social Services of Illinois.

The Des Plaines-based non-profit social services organization is receiving $15,328 in unclaimed cash that was surrendered to Illinois State Treasurer Michael Frerichs’ office, which is responsible for safeguarding unclaimed property.

“While we always work hard to give back unclaimed property to the rightful owners or heirs, we make an extra effort at this time of year to return money to non-profits because their generosity, kindness, and caring acts help so many people,” Frerichs said. “Our staff feels fortunate to play a small role in making the holiday season a little brighter for people who might be going through a challenging time.”

The $15,328 total being returned to LSSI consists of 42 cash properties from various sources, such as uncashed checks, insurance payments and vendors’ credits and refunds. The individual amounts range from one cent to $4,876, and the overall total includes $1,640 in interest paid on the assets.

Lutheran Social Services of Illinois was founded in 1867. During the fiscal year ending June 30, 2022, LSSI served more than 42,000 children, adults, seniors and families through more than 50 offices across Illinois. The organization’s programs include foster care, mental health services, alcohol and drug treatment, affordable senior housing, home care services for older adults, residential programs for people with developmental disabilities, and

programs that help people and families impacted by incarceration.

“Any family or individual can appreciate how much receiving unanticipated cash can help, particularly during the holidays, but it’s especially meaningful for nonprofit organizations who use the money to provide critical services,” said Mark A. Stutrud, LSSI President and CEO. “We’re deeply appreciative that the Treasurer’s office has streamlined the process for receiving unclaimed property. This can make such a difference in the lives of our clients, whether it’s using the money to support our vital programs or providing a Christmas present to a child who might otherwise go without.”

Illinois’ unclaimed property program – also known as ICash - is one of the state’s oldest consumer protection initiatives. In Illinois, the state treasurer is tasked with safeguarding unclaimed property, such as unpaid life insurance benefits, forgotten bank accounts and unused rebate cards. Illinois holds more than $3.5 billion in unclaimed property.

Since 2015, Frerichs’ office has returned more than $1.5 billion in unclaimed property, a record - setting amount since the program was established in 1961.

The state treasurer is legally required to return the property to the rightful owners no matter how long it takes. Individuals can search the state treasurer’s database for their name or the name of their business or non - profit at www.illinoistreasurer.gov/

ICASH.

As Illinois State Treasurer, Michael Frerichs (FRAIR’-iks) is the state’s Chief Investment and Banking Officer and actively manages approximately $52 billion. The portfolio includes $26 billion in state funds, $17 billion in retirement and college savings plans and $9 billion on behalf of local and state governments. Frerichs’ office protects consumers by safeguarding more than $3.5 billion in unclaimed property, encouraging savings plans for college or trade school, increasing financial education among all ages, assisting people with disabilities to save without losing government benefits, and removing barriers to a secure retirement. The Treasurer’s Office predates Illinois incorporation in 1818. Voters in 1848 chose to make it an elected office.

Serving Illinois since 1867, Lutheran Social Services of Illinois (LSSI) is a nonprofit social service organization of the three Illinois synods of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA). LSSI is one of the largest statewide social service providers. The organization provides critical programs for Illinois residents including foster care; mental health services; alcohol and drug treatment; senior services including affordable housing and home care; residential programs for people with developmental disabilities; and services that help people and families who have been impacted by incarceration.

Trace Austin, Recording Artist/Actor, Grandson of Otis Williams from The Temptations Releases New Single “My Story”

LOS ANGELES, PRNewswire -- Trace Austin, the grandson of the Temptations’ legendary Otis Williams, has released a new single, “My Story,” which was written by Trace Austin and produced by Byron Dorris, AKA Scotty. Trace recently launched his own 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, Together All Protected, in October to coincide with National Bullying Prevention Month The (TAP) organization will raise awareness about bullying in the community and provide resources such as mental health services, parent support groups, suicide prevention, self-defense classes, creative arts programs for musicians, alternative programs (schools) for minority youth, the LGBT community, and foster children.

Trace was inspired to write “My Story” after feeling compelled to finally share his story of being a victim of bullying for many years. Trace was bullied, suffered multiple injuries, was home-schooled, and had a school system that failed him. “I want bullied kids to have a voice!” says Trace. “I want a change to happen; I want to inspire others and have them inspire more people to Speak Up!”

To listen My Story, go to: https://distrokid.com/hyperfollow/traceaustin/my-story-feat-Evoni

Trace Austin, who was born and raised in Canary

SUNCHIPS® TO SPOTLIGHT UNDERREPRESENTED ARTISTS ON BAGS AND IN NEW EXHIBIT DURING

PREMIER ART WEEK IN MIAMI

PLANO, Texas, PRNewswire -- According to recent research, less than 15% of art in permanent collections in the U.S. is created by women and people of color. To help address that, SunChips, the one-ofa-kind wholegrain chip, brought back its “Art Seen” campaign to give diverse artists a stage on the ground in Miami during one of the premier moments in the global art scene. Select artists will also have a chance to have their work “seen” on more than 20 million SunChips bags and on SunChips social media and advertising.

“Sharing diverse viewpoints is essential to creating a world in which we all feel seen,” said Rhasheda Boyd, vice president of marketing at Frito-Lay. “Art is an incredible way to express unique perspectives. As a brand that encourages people everywhere to embrace their one-of-a-kindness, we’re leveraging this important cultural moment in Miami and our brand platform to highlight these talented artists and share their work with art fans across the country.”

Mashonda Tifrere, the founder of ArtLeadHER and Art Genesis, organizations that elevate female and diverse artists, curated the pop-up “Art Seen,” which was on display in Miami from Nov. 30 to Dec. 2. The “Art Seen” show will be featured at House of Pod, a series of experiential activation houses launched by Pod Digital Media, the first multicultural podcast agency network. Those at the show had the opportunity to cast their vote for their favorite “Art Seen” artist. SunChips will commission the three artists who receive

the most votes to create exclusive artwork for SunChips bags and other brand platforms.

Fans who won’t be in Miami to visit the “Art Seen” pop-up don’t have to miss out. A digital “Art Seen” gallery is open at SunChipsArtSeen.com through Dec. 18, so art lovers across the U.S. can explore the collection and vote for their favorite artists.

“I’m proud to partner with SunChips on ‘Art Seen’,” said Tifrere. “Their goals to encourage diversity in art and bring awareness to underrepresented talent mirror my own. Artists from underrepresented communities must have a stage to exhibit their work – something that has been a focus of mine for years – and I’m excited to continue giving these artists their deserved platform.”

The Miami show is the second iteration of SunChips “Art Seen,” a program that brought to life the brand’s 2021 “Be Your Own Wave” campaign that called on fans everywhere to embrace their individuality. In 2021, “Art Seen” gave artists a new way for their art to be “seen” through out-of-home installations. Now, SunChips is deepening its impact on the art community by providing a stage for diverse artists to share their work with other artists, collectors, and fans of the art community.

For more information on SunChips and the SunChips “Art Seen” program, you can follow SunChips on Instagram and Facebook.

because he has been exposed to many different cultures and countries.

Trace was raised in a musical family. His grandfather is the founding member of the legendary Motown group The Temptations, and his uncle is the famous musician, producer, arranger, and songwriter Benjamin Wright, Jr., who has worked with Michael and Janet Jackson, Justin Timberlake, Destiny’s Child, Aretha Franklin, Gladys Knight, and The Temptations, among many others.

Trace is currently traveling the country doing media interviews with his grandfather, Otis Williams of the Temptations. Among the media outlets are Fox 5 DC, Good Day Texas ABC, KTLA Morning Show, and New Orleans Fox 8. Trace’s song “Imposters” reached the fifth spot on VEVO’s hiphop teen chart.

Trace appeared on the Ava DuVernay-produced NBC show “Home Sweet Home.” Trace has been performing in Los Angeles. Most recently, he opened for Xavier Wolfe at the Regent Theater. He also writes, produces, plays the drums, and is an award-winning actor.

www.traceaustinmusic.com

LOUIS ARMSTRONG’S FIRST-EVER CHRISTMAS ALBUM, “LOUIS WISHES YOU A COOL YULE”, DEBUTS IN TOP 10 ACROSS BILLBOARD CHARTS

LOS ANGELES, PRNewswire -More than 50 years after his passing, the legendary Louis Armstrong is back on the charts with the release of his first-ever Christmas album, Louis Wishes You A Cool Yule (Verve/UMe). The collection debuted in the Top 10 across multiple Billboard charts (dated Nov. 26), including Top Holiday Albums where it bowed at No. 9 and launches in the top 10 on Jazz Albums (No. 4), Traditional Jazz Albums (No. 4), Top Album Sales (No. 7), Top Current Album Sales (No. 6) and Vinyl Albums (No. 7). It debuted at No. 122 on the Billboard 200, becoming Armstrong’s highest charting album since Hello Dolly spent six weeks at No. 1 in 1964.

“Louis Armstrong’s first album of holiday-associated songs is an auspicious aural example of why he was a man for all seasons, singing and playing his Promethean trumpet in the cause of happiness,” said Wynton Marsalis, president of the Louis Armstrong Educational Foundation (LAEF). “Whether you’re seven or 70, these evergreen selections featuring the great composer/arranger Benny Carter, and the incomparable vocalists Ella Fitzgerald and Velma Middleton are illuminated by Pops’ down-home vocals. His reading of ‘The Night Before Christmas,’ with my New Orleans homeboy, Sullivan Fortner on piano, is a swinging Crescent City Christmas card. If anybody can bring joy to the world, Louis Armstrong can!”

“Louis Armstrong’s timeless holiday tunes are among the best of the season and we’re thrilled to bring them all together for his first-ever Christmas album,” said Bruce Resnikoff, President & CEO of UMe. “It’s an incredible achievement that more than 50 years after his passing, Louis Armstrong is back on the charts. It’s a testament to his remarkable talent and a wonderful early holiday gift for everyone.”

Louis Wishes You A Cool Yule, available digitally, on CD, red vinyl and a limited edition vinyl picture disc, collects nearly the entirety of Armstrong’s holiday output and presents the recordings as a cohesive body of work for the first time, marking his first-ever official Christmas album. The 11-track album features six Decca singles from the ‘50s, including “Cool Yule,” “Christmas Night in Harlem,” and the swinging “’Zat You Santa Claus?;” duets with two of his favorite vocal partners, Velma Middleton (“Baby, It’s Cold Outside”) and Ella Fitzgerald (“I’ve Got My Love to Keep Me Warm”); plus a very special gift to fans: a previously unreleased reading of Samuel Clement Moore’s poem “A Visit from St. Nicholas,” popularly known as “The Night Before Christmas.” Paired with a newly-recorded musical underbed by New Orleans pianist Sullivan Fortner, the poignant recording marks the first new, non-live Armstrong track in more than 20 years and is notable for being the last recording he ever made. Rounding out the collection is the artist’s signature hit, “What a Wonderful World,” which has become something of a yearlong hymn of hope and celebrates its 65th anniversary this year.

Stream/purchase “Louis Wishes You A Cool Yule”: https://louisarmstrong.lnk.to/ LouisXmas

“A Visit From St. Nicholas” has been vividly brought to life with a beautiful animated video to usher in the holiday season. Produced and directed by Tom Readdy and Lucy Dawkins at the award-winning creative house Yes Please Productions, the video was animated in a vintage storybook style by animators Sam Shaw, Jac Clinch and Chris Bowles. Watch “A Visit From St. Nicholas” here: https://louisarmstrong.lnk.to/VisitFromStNicholasMV

Wharf, London, traveled the world at a young age, visiting Greece, Paris, France, Spain, and South America. Trace and his family moved to the United States when he was five years old, and he now splits his time between California and London. Trace has compassion for all humans and believes he can relate to everyone

Trace Austin Photo Credit: Samantha Jacoby

Here for the Holidays

This holiday season, Walgreens is here so you can show up healthy and hearty for your loved ones.

Walgreens specially trained pharmacists have safely administered over 100 million COVID-19 vaccines in the past three years. Through online scheduling or within the Walgreens app offering same-day appointments, Walgreens makes it easy to stay up-to-date on recommended vaccines, like the updated COVID-19 booster and flu shot. Plus, COVID-19 treatments are now more accessible if you or a loved one becomes ill. As you plan your holiday festivities, consider the answers to these 5 questions:

How long does it take for the COVID-19 vaccine to be effective?

It typically takes two weeks, so there’s still enough time to prepare for your festivities! Free COVID-19 vaccines and updated boosters are available at Walgreens via same-day appointments. Getting your primary series or updated COVID-19 booster helps you stay protected against COVID-19 variants.

Why is it necessary to have both a COVID-19 and flu vaccine?

With both COVID-19 and flu circulating, with the highest flu activity reported in more than a decade, staying up to date with vaccines is critical to providing protection and helping to prevent illness, medical visits and hospitalizations for you and your family.

Is it safe to receive both the COVID-19 shot or booster and annual flu shot at the same time?

Yes. Studies conducted by the CDC throughout the pandemic indicate that it is safe to get both a flu vaccine and a COVID-19 vaccine at the same visit. Talk to your pharmacist to determine which vaccines suit your health needs.

What else can I do to prevent a super spreader at my holiday gathering?

For further protection, your local Walgreens offers a variety of masks, hand sanitizers and COVID-19 testing options, including at-home COVID-19 tests available at no cost to you!

COVID-19 treatments were once hard to come by. What is Walgreens doing to make once limited COVID-19 treatments more accessible? Walgreens now offers free prescription delivery of Paxlovid, a COVID-19 oral antiviral therapy, directly to the doorsteps of those in need, with the help of delivery partners DoorDash and Uber Health for same day delivery.

MEET THE PHARMACIST Jamal Downer, PharmD

Pharmacy Manager, New York, NY

“No matter your reason why, Walgreens pharmacists want to help you stay up to date on your vaccinations so you can continue showing up for the people you love. We highly recommend getting your COVID-19 and flu shots as soon as possible. We continue to support your general wellbeing and overall health beyond vaccinations as well. If you or a loved one becomes ill, contact your local pharmacist who can provide testing and prescribe the appropriate treatment options.”

Schedule your appointment by scanning this QR code or visiting: walgreens.com/ findcare/schedule-vaccine

Here’s What Happens When 25,000 Women Go Vegan Together

WASHINGTON, PRNewswire -- Award-winning public health nutritionist, 35-year vegan activist, and best-selling author Tracye McQuirter, MPH, recently held another free 21Day Vegan Fresh Start program from Sept. 18-Oct. 9, and the results were extraordinary.

This marks the fourth free 21-Day Vegan Fresh Start program as part of McQuirter’s 10 Million Black Vegan Women Movement, a revolutionary public health intervention that is changing the health paradigm of Black women now and for generations to come.

The 21-Day Vegan Fresh Start continues to attract a sizable cohort of women, with 3,705 enrolling. Participants who responded to the post-program survey obtained remarkable health benefits from the 21-Day Vegan Fresh Start:

An astounding 77% of the respondents ate 80-100% of their meals completely vegan, tying the 2020 10K Vegan Fresh Start program for an all-time high.

The high intake of nutritious, plant-based foods contributed to weight loss for 72% of respondents, ranging from 1.2 to 15 pounds and improved general health for 71%.

Remarkably, 14% of respondents addressed specific health conditions as a result of program participation.

Other notable gains attributed to the program

include: lowered blood pressure and cholesterol for 43% and 39% of the respondents, respectively.

A significant number of respondents (54%) reported having more energy, increased mental clarity (43%) and strengthened immunity (20%).

“I couldn’t be happier with the results we saw after this program,” said Tracye McQuirter, MPH. “We are truly changing the way Black women look at nutrition and health proving we really are what we eat. I encourage Black women looking to change their lives to check out 10MillionBlackVeganWomen.org/freshstart and join our incredible community.”

Data shows the 21-Day Vegan Fresh Start

effectively promotes, educates and prepares women to live a healthy vegan lifestyle. Amazingly, 64% of the respondents ate more vegetables, 60% enjoyed cooking more, 59% gained confidence in going vegan and an impressive number (43%) learned how to prepare meals. And it doesn’t stop there, as a smaller, yet growing number of respondents (17%) experienced a greater commitment to the environment and 10% sensed a greater compassion for animals.

McQuirter ’s free 21-Day Vegan Fresh Start programs have helped thousands of Black women experience life-changing health benefits, including weight loss, lower blood pressure and cholesterol levels, improved mood and cognitive function, and more.

Tracye McQuirter, MPH, is a transformative leader in the field of plant-based nutrition and Black women’s health, and has been helping people go vegan for more than 30 years. McQuirter created 10 MIllion Black Vegan Women to change the paradigm of Black women’s health. She is the author of Ageless Vegan and By Any Greens Necessary, and created the first free African American Vegan Starter Guide. The New York Times cited her work as a key factor driving the rise in veganism among African Americans. McQuirter was also an advisor for the Black Women’s Health Imperative and Spelman College, and an adjunct professor at the University of the District of Columbia Center for Nutrition, Diet, and Health. McQuirter has a Master’s degree in Public Health Nutrition from New York University and a Bachelor’s degree in Black Studies from Amherst College.

For more information, please visit: 10millionblackveganwomen.org/freshstart/.

LET’S WIN PANCREATIC CANCER LAUNCHES AN UPDATED PLATFORM

NEW YORK, PRNewswire -- Let’s Win Pancreatic Cancer is proud to introduce its rethought platform. The new design retains all the robust features patients rely on but makes it easier for website visitors to access the information they need. The streamlined signature flag of the sophisticated new logo reflects the organization’s mission to continue to lead the way forward.

A year and a half ago, it began to reimagine Let’s Win Pancreatic Cancer and the growing needs of the pancreatic cancer community. Let’s Win is now a true editorial platform that provides a richer, more meaningful user experience for families navigating this difficult journey. The reorganized website better reflects the needs of patients and caregivers, and has many special features to make it easier to explore the wealth of information.

As Let’s Win Pancreatic Cancer looks forward to the next chapter for the organization, it continues to

see its role as a partner to the medical community and the voice of the patient. From the very beginning, its number one priority has been to reach unreached populations by developing deep relationships with trusted partners. Now, with better resources and more accessible information, it is making sure that everyone has the tools they need to get the best outcome possible.

“We started in 2016 with 15 articles and have grown to more than 650 today,” explains Founding Executive Director Cindy Gavin. This wealth of information guided the development of the new platform. “We have learned that patients find these features critically helpful while navigating the disease because they reveal treatment options, clinical trials, and quality-of-living resources that newly-diagnosed patients may not have been aware of. Our new platform directs patients to more resources that are relevant to their treatment based on how they are navigating within the site.”

citizennewspapergroup.com

Let’s Win Pancreatic Cancer (https://letswinpc. org/) changes the narrative around pancreatic cancer. Instead of sharing dismal statistics, Let’s Win breaks down the barriers between patients, doctors, and researchers through its dynamic website and robust social media program in both English and Spanish. The message is simple: Everyone who is diagnosed with pancreatic cancer should have easy access to information about the best treatment options available. The site features patients describing their treatment plans; information on promising science; highlights from the latest clinical trials; information about managing care during treatment; current pancreatic cancer news; and inspiring videos from survivors. The Let’s Win Scientific Advisory Board is comprised of world-renowned scientists and physicians who lead cutting-edge research on pancreatic cancer. Let’s Win Pancreatic Cancer is a 501(c)(3) organization and is proud to be an affiliate of the Lustgarten Foundation.

Photo courtesy of 10 Million Black Vegan Women.

Arugula Salad with Walnuts and Ceasar Dressing by Tracey McQuirter.

Tips to Help Families Manage Holiday Stress

the season for holiday parties, travel, hosting and more. While it is a joyous time of year, the never-ending to-do lists and school being out of session can make everyone feel a little overwhelmed, children included.

1Manage expectations.

The commotion that often comes with the holiday season can be stressful for young children, but you can help alleviate worries by familiarizing them with what’s to come. Talk to them about upcoming travel arrangements, who they’ll see at events and what to expect throughout the season. If they are cautious in their current developmental stage, let loved ones know beforehand to give them a little extra space at festivities. Parents can also begin familiarizing little ones with relatives through photos and phone calls.

2Empower children.

It’s important for children to understand they have a choice – and family members are willing to respect that choice. Parents should acknowledge their children’s body language and empower them to say “no” in uncomfortable situations. Parents can help by proactively asking questions such as, “Do you want a hug?” and if they say “no,” support them in their

decision. This also helps establish healthy long-term social skills.

3Maintain your schedule.

Children thrive on consistency, and during the holidays it’s important to at least try maintaining as much of what they’re used to as possible, such as naps, meals and playtime. Changes in schedule can result in more tantrums, so be sure to allow space for them to safely work through their emotions.

It’s also important to note that children feed off their parents’ energy, so make sure you’re in tune with your own emotions. When overwhelmed, openly discuss how you’re feeling and involve your children when taking breaks. For example, “It’s loud in here, would you like to go sit outside with me?”

4Have fun.

Make time to spread joy and integrate activities to bond as a family, such as reading holiday-themed

books, crafting, playing games, singing or baking. Whether old traditions or new, these are moments your child can cherish for years to come.

5Keep others in mind.

While it’s important to set children up for success ahead of the holidays, parents should also teach children the holiday season can look different for others. Putting a focus on experiences rather than the gifts can help them have more to discuss with their peers when returning to school. It’s also a good time to consider donating toys to make room for new ones or volunteering at a local charity to show children joy can be experienced through more than just gifts.

To find more tips to help manage holiday stress, or to access additional resources around social development, setting boundaries and routines, visit KinderCare.com.

(Family Features) ’Tis

Consider these five practical tips from the experts at KinderCare to help families proactively manage holiday stressors.

Photo courtesy of Getty Images

The true and real full name (s) and residence address of the owner (s)/partner (s) is: Owner/Partner Full Name DANIEL ESSIEN Complete Address 1128 E. BOWEN AVE. APT B, CHICAGO, ILLINOIS 60653, USA

PUBLIC NOTICE

PUBLICATION NOTICE OF COURT DATE FOR REQUEST FOR NAME CHANGE (ADULT)

STATE OF ILLINOIS, CIRCUIT COURT COOK COUNTY. Request of: NAAMAN LOGAN. Case Number 2022CONC001348. There will be a court date on my Request to change my name from: NAAMAN ISRAEL LOGAN to the new name of: NAAMAN BOAZ LOGAN . The court date will be held: on Jan 5, 2023 at 10:30 a.m. at 50 W. Washington, Chicago Cook, in Courtroom# 200M.

REQUEST FOR NAME CHANGE (ADULT)

STATE OF ILLINOIS, CIRCUIT COURT COOK COUNTY. Request of: NAAMAN ISREAL LOGAN Case Number 2022CONC001348.

I ask the court to enter an order to change my name, and I state:

Illinois 60478 (334) 5384902.

VERIFICATION BY WITNESS

I WILLIAM RAMON JACKSON certify that what is stated above and on the Request for Name Change (Adult) is true and correct to the best of my knowledge and belief. I understand that making a false statement on this form is perjury and has penalities provided by law under 735 IL CS 5/1-109.

WILLIAM JACKSON, 38 TWILIGHT LANE, CALUMET CITY, ILLIOIS 60409 (773) 454-1825.

(Statepoint) Holiday shopping season is in full swing and making sure everyone gets the best tech gifts while you snag the best deals is likely top of mind for you.

Nearly 80% of Americans plan on gifting tech-related products and services this year – with the top gifts being headphones and earbuds, smartphones, streaming and downloading services and gaming consoles, according to this year’s Consumer Technology Association report.

The good news? You don’t need to break your budget in order to make your loved ones’ season bright. Here are some affordable tech gift ideas to please everyone on your shopping list.

For Affordable 5G Smartphones: If your loved one has a 5G smartphone on their holiday wish list, you are in luck! T-Mobile and Metro by T-Mobile offer the latest affordable devices. T-Mobile’s REVVL 6 PRO 5G is developed in collaboration with Google, making 5G more accessible to everyone at a time when saving is a priority for Americans. Priced at $219.99, it’s free when T-Mobile customers add a line. Another affordable option is the OnePlus Nord N300 5G, retailing for $228. For a limited time, TMobile customers can get the Nord N300 5G for free when adding a line and Metro by T-Mobile customers can get it for free when switching. These are worthwhile gifts to consider this particular holiday season because right now, for a limited time, TMobile is bringing back a deal that hasn’t been available in more than two years -- four lines for $25 per line per month with autopay for unlimited talk, text and data, which also includes 5G access.

For the Travel Enthusiast: New tools are making it easier than ever for globetrotters to stay connected while on the go. T-Mobile’s industry-leading travel benefits, which include high speed data and unlimited texting in 215+ countries and destinations around the world, now get a travel companion just in time for the holidays. T-Mobile collaborated with Samsara luggage to create the Un-carrier On, a limited-edition magenta smart suitcase. It’s the only carry-on suitcase with wireless charging and includes a removeable battery pack with USB-C charging to take the hassle out of hunting for a power outlet at the airport. The smart suitcase also features built-in Bluetooth luggage tracking to locate your belongings no matter where you are. The Un-carrier On suitcase is available for preorder exclusively online at travelmagenta.com.

For Children: The SyncUP KIDS Watch can help curious kids explore and navigate their daily adventures with confidence while giving parents peace of mind. The latest SyncUP KIDS Watch features talk and text with approved contacts, real-time location tracking with virtual boundary alerts and a help and 911 button for emergencies. For a limited time, the SyncUP Watch is free for existing T-Mobile customers when they add a line to their existing account.