South End Citizen 4-12-2023

CHICAGO STATE UNIVERSITY TEACHERS ON STRIKE

Chants of “Equity and Justice at CSU” sounded out on the corner of 95th and King Drive. As trucks passed, they honked their horns in solidarity with the CSU strikers, who were carrying green and white signs and wearing green and white t shirts.

ILLINOIS’ TOP CPA EXAM CANDIDATES HONORED WITH EXCEL AWARDS

CHICAGO -- The Illinois CPA Society (ICPAS) — one of the largest state societies serving the certified public accountant (CPA) community — is excited to announce its 2022 Excel Award recipients. Each spring, ICPAS recognizes the individuals who exhibited superior achievements in passing the Uniform CPA Exam in Illinois during the previous year.

“Earning the CPA credential is a crowning achievement for accountants and deserves recognition for the aptitude—and fortitude— required to be able to call oneself a certified public accountant. So, it’s really our privilege to welcome and recognize Illinois’ new CPAs,” says Geoffrey Brown, CAE, ICPAS president and CEO. “By attaining the highest scores on the Uniform CPA Exam in Illinois, these individuals exemplify excellence, and we look forward to seeing the positive impacts they’ll make in the CPA profession and in the communities they serve as trusted and strategic business advisors.”

The Excel Awards were established in 1984 by the Illinois CPA Society Board of Directors to recognize new CPAs and CPA candidates for outstanding performance on the Uniform CPA Exam in Illinois. Honorees must achieve a total average score of 90 or above, complete all four sections of the exam within two consecutive testing windows, and rank in the top 5 percent of all Uniform CPA Exam test-takers completing all the exam requirements in Illinois’ testing year. The prestigious gold, silver, and bronze medals further distinguish the achievements of those earning the top three scores in the state. ICPAS is proud to present awards to the following recipients:

Gold Medal

Sidney A. Simner – Deloitte LLP | University of Southern California

Silver Medal

Jackson A. Gillen – Deloitte LLP | Indiana University Bloomington

Bronze Medal

Gabriel Otto – Baker Tilly US LLP | Holy Angel University

Excel Award

William A. Pisacrita – RSM US LLP | Miami University

Three of the City of Chicago’s Iconic Music Festivals Kicking off Summer

Chicago Gospel Music Festival: June 3

Chicago Blues Festival: June 8 – 11

CHICAGO HOUSE MUSIC FESTIVAL AND CONFERENCE: JUNE 23 & 24

CHICAGO—The City of Chicago and the Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events (DCASE) announced the lineups and artist highlights for three of Chicago’s most beloved free music festivals taking place at the top of summer:

Chicago Gospel Music Festival (June 3; Millennium Park) Kicking off the summer season in Millennium Park, this inspirational music festival brings audiences of all ages and backgrounds together to celebrate the power of music. 2023 lineup features Choir Nation opening for multiple GRAMMY® Award winners Karen Clark Sheard and Tye Tribbett on the Jay Pritzker Pavilion stage; MillenniumPark. org, ChicagoGospelMusicFestival.us #ChiGospelMusic.

Chicago Blues Festival (June 8 – 11; Millennium Park) The largest, free Blues festival in the world returns with four days of top tier talent performing across three stages in Millennium Park. MillenniumPark.org, ChicagoBluesFestival.us #ChicagoBluesFestival.

Chicago House Music Festival and Conference (June 23, Chicago Cultural Center; June 24, Humboldt Park Boathouse. ChicagoHouseMusicalFestival.us #ChicagoHouseMusicFestival.

“Chicago is the birthplace of house music, urban blues, and gospel. It’s an honor to celebrate our city’s musical legacy each summer with free concerts across Chicago,” shared DCASE Commissioner Erin Harkey.

Chicago State University Teachers on Strike

Continued from page 1

BY TIA CAROL JONES

Chicago State University Chapter of the University Professionals of Illinois (CSU UPI IFT 4100) went on strike on Monday, April 3rd, during negotiations over a new labor agreement, workload and compensation.

“I don’t understand how is it that we live here in Chicago, yet we’re the lowest paid faculty in the state,” said Dr. Valerie Goss, president of CSU UPI and a CSU alumni, in a release. “How is it that our pay is less than everyone else’s? That’s not fair. That’s not equity. That’s why we’re here today.” Chicago Teachers Union President Stacy Davis Gates spoke to the strikers. In her speech, she said that Chicago is on fire for hope and aspiration for working people and all people in the city.

“It is because of that fire we’re feeling that I am confident that this courage and this walkout, the boldness and your demands will penetrate the negotiating table.

I am confident that when people band together and they draw a line in the sand, because they value labor, because they value solidarity, because they value the young people that come before you everyday, that you will win,” said Davis Gates, who also is Executive Vice President of the Illinois Federation of Teachers.

Davis Gates added that a strong showing of solidarity, speaking with one voice declaratively that the teachers deserve their dignity and the students deserve dignity, will move the negotiating table. She encouraged the strikers to stay strong and ended with, “When we fight, we win!”

Chicago State University released the following statement: “On April 1st, Chicago State University leaders spent another day with the UPI Local 4100 bargaining committee with hopes to avoid an unnecessary strike on Monday. During negotiations, CSU has made numer-

ous concessions and reached an agreement with the Union on the vast majority of issues with wages being the one area of significant difference. Today, however, the parties were not able to reach agreement on a new contract. The Union’s financial demands far exceed our current economic position.

CSU again made a proposal for Interest Arbitration. This proposal would have ensured the continued, uninterrupted operations and guarantee all students continue to benefit from the educational opportunities at CSU. The Union is determined to strike - despite it being unclear how a strike would produce a better outcome than continuing good faith negotiations or interest arbitration.

CSU has intently listened to the Union and carefully considered each and every one of its requests. We have achieved agreement on significant issues, including workload, office hours, parental leave and other points as they were raised during our bargaining sessions. Yet the financial realities at the University remain. We recognize the dedication and needs of our faculty, but must also ensure that CSU can continue its commitment to our students, staff and community into the future.

We remain focused on reaching agreement with the Union. However, we have made the essential plans necessary to meet our primary duty to our students. If a strike occurs, we are planning for all student services to continue and for most, if not all, classes to take place. We have contingency plans in place to leverage available instruction resources to minimize the disruption to our students as much as possible.

CSU has requested additional bargaining sessions however, the Union has yet to confirm.”

Landmarks Illinois seeks nominations for 2023 preservation awards

CHICAGO – Landmarks Illinois is now accepting nominations for the 2023 Landmarks Illinois Richard H. Driehaus Foundation Preservation Awards. The annual awards program honors outstanding preservation projects in Illinois and/or individuals, organizations and advocacy efforts that demonstrate a strong commitment to protecting the places that are important to the people and communities of Illinois.

Nominations are due June 1, and can be submitted online. There is no fee to submit a nomination. A jury of preservation professionals will review the nominations and determine the winners of this year’s awards. Judging criteria includes the impact the project or person has had on the community, how creative the project is and how well it aligns with Landmarks Illinois’ mission and guiding principles.

“Our annual awards program is an opportunity to call attention to the people across Illinois who are doing the challenging and honorable work of saving places in their communities,” said Bonnie McDonald, President & CEO of Landmarks Illinois. “During this nomination process, we want to learn about innovative preservation efforts, both big and small, that are sparking economic development, promoting sustainability or making other positive

impacts that improve people’s lives.”

Projects and individuals selected for this year’s awards will be honored at a public ceremony in Chicago this October. Details on the event will be announced at a later date.

Nomination requirements

Projects must be located within Illinois to receive an award. Projects must also have been completed within the last five years. Phased projects may be considered if the nominated phase is complete and can stand on its own merits. Nominations may be submitted in someone’s honor and/or without the knowledge of the nominee. Self-nominations are also accepted. Previous year submissions not selected for an award may be revised and resubmitted for consideration as well.

Award details

Winners of the 2023 Landmarks Illinois Richard H. Driehaus Foundation Preservation Awards will be selected from the following general categories:

· Advocacy: An effective local or statewide campaign to preserve and protect a historic resource.

· Leadership: Individual, municipality, private orga-

Treasurer Frerichs Returns $22.7 Million In Unclaimed Property in March Record-

Setting

$1.6 Billion Returned Since He Took Office

SPRINGFIELD – The Illinois State Treasurer’s Office returned nearly $22.7 million in unclaimed property during March, Illinois State Treasurer Michael Frerichs said.

The total includes more than $20 million in cash and interest and nearly $2.6 million in stock value returned. All told, 11,366 claims were paid.

“I place a priority on reuniting people with money that belongs to them. Putting money in people’s pockets is a way to help the state’s economy,” Frerichs said. “We will hold onto unclaimed property as long as it takes to return it.”

Illinois’ unclaimed property program — also known as I-CASH — is one of the state’s oldest consumer protection initiatives. The State Treasurer is tasked with safeguarding unclaimed property, such as the contents of overlooked safe deposit boxes, unpaid life insurance benefits, forgotten bank accounts and unused rebate cards. Illinois holds more than $3.5 billion in unclaimed property.

The Treasurer’s Office has returned more than $1.6 billion since Frerichs took office in January 2015. When Frerichs first became treasurer, there were 60,000 claims paid in a year. That number has increased sixfold to 362,352 claims paid in a year.

The record-setting performance is the result of a complete restructuring of the unclaimed property process under Frerichs. The state treasurer’s office has added electronic claims, eliminated red-tape that slowed small-money claims, and leveraged technology to allow payments to be made without a claim even needing to be filed.

visitors to the I-CASH website come across the name of someone they know, they can select the “share” icon and provide the email address of their friend or relative. Frerichs’ office then will notify the individual by sending an email that mentions the unclaimed property, along with the name of the friend or relative who spotted it. Then, that individual can start the process of retrieving the property.

In addition, “Abe,” an automated chatbot, is available to anyone visiting the I-CASH website. Abe provides an interactive way for people to obtain information when they ask short, simple questions about unclaimed property.

Illinois is a national leader in the unclaimed property space and is frequently consulted by other states who are reforming their unclaimed property laws, rules and procedures.

You can check icash.illinoistreasurer.gov to see if unclaimed property is waiting for you.

JOYCE SUPPORTS BILL TO END MORATORIUM ON NEW NUCLEAR FACILITIES

State Senator Patrick Joyce advocated for Senate Bill 76 last Thursday, which was an initiative from State Senator Sue Rezin (R-Morris) that enables the state to explore new clean energy options and create jobs in the nuclear industry.

“It’s our job to ensure Illinois remains a leader in clean energy production,” said Joyce (D-Essex). “By lifting the moratorium, we can explore new nuclear technology, support job creation and ensure that our state has more sustainable energy sources.”

Under current law, there is a nuclear moratorium in place that prohibits any construction of a new nuclear plant in Illinois and prohibits the Illinois Commerce Commission from issuing a certificate of public and convenience and necessity for a new nuclear facility. Senate Bill 76 would appeal the moratorium on new nuclear facilities in Illinois.

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Frerichs recently added a Friends and Family “share” feature. When

As Illinois State Treasurer, Michael Frerichs (FRAIR’-ikz) 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.

Landmarks Illinois Continued From Pge 2

nization or joint partnership that has championed historic preservation, planning or public policy.

· Preservation: Projects that make possible the continued use of historic commercial/industrial buildings, multi-family/affordable housing residences, public/institutional structures or preserves a cultural heritage site.

· Environmental Sustainability: Mitigation of climate change through preservation technologies.

In addition, one of the 2023 selected winners will receive the Richard H. Driehaus Legacy Award, which honors the memory of the late Richard H. Driehaus. The Richard H. Driehaus Foundation has generously supported this annual

awards program since 1994. The recipient of this esteemed award must demonstrate the immense power of preservation, following in the footsteps of Driehaus who believed reusing places of our past creates positive change and motivates others to save important places.

We are People Saving Places for People. Landmarks Illinois is a membership-based historic preservation nonprofit organization serving the people of Illinois. We inspire and empower stakeholders to save places that matter to them by providing free guidance, practical and financial resources and access to strategic partnerships. For more information, visit www.Landmarks. org.

“My legislation is a bipartisan, pro-jobs bill that will help ensure that Illinois is able to effectively compete with other states who are beginning to understand the pivotal role nuclear energy can play in relieving growing energy grid reliability and resiliency pressures,” said Rezin.

“I’m here to make Illinois stay relevant, to make Illinois stay at the table, and with the moratorium in place, we aren’t even in the conversation,” said Joyce. “Reliability and affordability is something we are going to be dealing with for years to come. I want to thank Senator Rezin for this bill.”

Senate Bill 76 passed the Senate with a 39-13 bipartisan vote and now moves other to the House for further action.

BELT INITIATIVE TO HELP TACKLE THE ISSUE OF FOOD DESERTS IN THE STATE CLEARS THE SENATE

State Senator Christopher Belt advanced a measure through the Senate Thursday to tackle the increasing number of food deserts in Illinois.

“People should be able to have easy access to healthy and affordable food at all times,” said Belt (D-Swansea). “By providing financial assistance to grocery stores, we can incentivize the establishment and expansion of stores in areas that are considered food deserts.”

Under this legislation, the Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity would be required to provide grants and other forms of financial assistance to privately-owned grocery stores and grocery stores owned by a unit of local government, school district or community college district, located in or to be located in a food desert.

This measure aims to help mitigate the issue of food deserts across the state.

In 2021, the Illinois Department of Public Health issued a study that found that 807 census tracts are considered food deserts, meaning urban residents have to travel more than a half mile and rural residents must travel more than 10 miles to get to the nearest grocery store.

“This is an important step forward in addressing the issues of food deserts in Illinois,” said Belt. “Not only would this measure support grocery stores in communities that need the most help, but it could improve economic development as well.”

Senate Bill 850 cleared the Senate Thursday

Small Businesses Thrive with Support from SCORE Volunteer Corps

WASHINGTON, PRNewswire -- The American small business community received 4.65 million hours of free, confidential, expert advice last year from volunteers with SCORE, mentors to America’s small businesses and a nonprofit resource partner of the U.S. Small Business Administration. This National Volunteer Month, SCORE is celebrating its dedicated corps of 10,000+ diverse volunteers serving entrepreneurs in all 50 U.S. states and territories, and their indelible impact locally and to the national economy.

In 2022 alone, SCORE volunteers:

SCORE volunteers help create thousands of new businesses annually, such as Uni Uni Bubble Tea in Appleton, Wisc.

SCORE volunteers help create thousands of new businesses annually, such as Uni Uni Bubble Tea in Appleton, Wisc.

Supported the launch of 30,453 new small businesses

Helped create 112,570 total jobs, including 82,117 non-owner jobs

Provided 278,783 mentoring sessions

Held 9,443 local workshops providing small business education for 211,425 attendees

“Volunteers are the backbone of SCORE, applying their years of business experience and knowledge to foster small business growth and help entrepreneurs succeed and thrive,” said SCORE CEO Bridget

Weston. “It is incredibly rewarding to see the economic impact as a result of their efforts, but also to know that behind each business is an entrepreneur seeing their dreams come true.”

According to SCORE data, entrepreneurs who work with a mentor are five times more likely to start a business – and report higher revenues and increased business growth. “Our SCORE mentor always listens to the issues and challenges that we have, and thoughtfully gives us feedback to help us be our best selves in business,” said Heather Mangione, co-founder of Al Fresco Tails in Vineyard Haven, Mass.

SCORE’s diverse volunteer corps is both a deep and wide source of expertise on any small business topic. Half of SCORE volunteers are currently employed as executives or entrepreneurs and half are retired; all donate their time and talent to help small business owners succeed by sharing their knowledge and real-world experience of running a business.

Mentoring can be provided in-person or virtually, and team mentoring is available to ensure each small business client can access expert guidance for different aspects of their business journey.

“If you have a lot of knowledge that you’ve gained from running a business or from a corporate background, SCORE is the perfect place for you to make an impact on another person’s life,” explains SCORE Raleigh mentor Patti Williams. Volunteer benefits include making a positive difference helping others and connecting with peers across the country, but also personal growth and satisfaction. “I am a lifelong learner and that’s an aspect of SCORE that I really appreciate,” explains SCORE Charleston mentor Mary Butler. “I’m always learning something from either the clients, my fellow mentors or folks in the community.”

Since 1964, SCORE has helped more than 11 million entrepreneurs start, grow or successfully exit a business. SCORE’s 10,000 volunteers provide free, expert mentoring, resources and education in all 50 U.S. states and territories. Visit SCORE at www.score.org.

Funded [in part] through a Cooperative Agreement with the U.S. Small Business Administration.

To learn more about becoming a SCORE volunteer, visit www.SCORE.org/volunteer.

REVOLT Appoints 4 Trailblazing Women into Executive Roles

LOS ANGELES, PRNewswire -- REVOLT, the leading Black-owned independent multimedia company, is excited to announce the appointment of four highly experienced women who have joined its executive team. With this initiative, Dominique Andrews, Donyell Kennedy-McCullough, Nancy Harrison, and Alison Threadgill are elevated into key leadership positions to spearhead the company’s culture-driven talent and production initiatives.

“Here at REVOLT, we are committed to providing a platform for changemakers both in our content as well as our company makeup,” said Monique Chenault, President of REVOLT News, Specials & Documentary.

“We are thrilled to welcome Dominique, Donyell, Nancy, and Alison to REVOLT’s executive team, each of whom bring a wealth of knowledge and expertise to our mission-driven programming. With their impressive track records and vast industry experience, these four incredible women will continue to push the boundaries of the media industry.”

Expanding REVOLT’s trailblazing team of industry veterans, Dominique Andrews joins REVOLT as Senior Vice President of Production Management, Donyell Kennedy-McCullough as Senior Vice President of Talent Relations & Casting, Nancy Harrison as Supervising Producer, and Alison Threadgill as Senior Director of Talent Relations. Together, these four powerhouse women will further bolster the company’s commitment to producing culture-driven

content that shifts the narrative for Black people globally.

With a commitment to culture ingrained in both its workforce and viewership, REVOLT values diversity both in its perspective and company makeup. With this initiative, the company will continue to grow its highly talented team who will spearhead the productions of its groundbreaking content dedicated to authentically storytelling the Black experience. The appointments further expand the company’s growing number of accomplished female leaders off of the heels of Women’s History Month.

REVOLT is pleased to announce the appointment of the following four executive women who will spearhead upcoming initiatives to carry out the company’s initiatives.

Dominique Andrews joins REVOLT as Senior Vice President, Production Management, bringing over 15 years of experience in overseeing production management on both the studio and network sides. In her new role, Dominique will be responsible for the production quality of REVOLT’s multi-platform network, serving as a chief point of contact for all production management operations.

Donyell Kennedy-McCullough joins REVOLT as Senior Vice President, Talent Relations and Casting, with over 25 years of experience in managing and casting a diverse slate of performing talent and content. She will be responsible for overseeing all aspects of talent relations and casting for REVOLT.

Nancy Harrison joins REVOLT as Supervising Producer, with a demonstrated history in both broadcast and online media. In her new role, Nancy will serve as lead booker for REVOLT Studios, responsible for high-profile bookings for two weekly shows, TV specials, and digital segments.

Alison Threadgill joins REVOLT as Senior Director of Talent Relations, with over 15 years of experience in talent development, management, and relations across linear, digital, and podcast networks. In her new role, Alison will be responsible for executing all business-related strategies for talent.

REVOLT is the leading Black-owned and operated multimedia platform servicing content 24/7 across digital, linear and live media channels. The platform produces rich content and original material with the biggest names in Hip-Hop, along with reports of breaking news, current events, trends and announcements within the Black cultural movement and Hip-Hop world. REVOLT takes pride in its diversity, both in its mindset and its company makeup, further instilling its dedication to culture within its staff and audiences. Founded by Sean “Diddy” Combs in 2013, REVOLT attracts over 50 Million millennials and Gen Z audiences through their disruptive, authentic material across all platforms. In 2021, REVOLT launched a brand new digital mobile app where users can view extended releases, live updates from relevant news, exclusive specials and much more.

For more information on REVOLT’s linear content, please visit https://www.revolt.tv/ and visit www.revolt.tv/providers to find REVOLT in your area.

REI Co-op releases

Trailmade collection

SEATTLE, PRNewswire -- REI Co-op introduces its new Trailmade collection, aimed to accommodate more people’s needs for hiking and backpacking. This collection provides customers affordable gear and apparel options, including gender-free sleeping bags, backpacks, trekking poles, hiking apparel and jackets, and more inclusive sizing options across the line.

“Trailmade is all about alleviating the feeling of having to fit into a limited mold,” says Amy Marks, REI Co-op product designer. “We’ve created a line that’s intended to fit more bodies and lifestyles, and help people feel more comfortable outside, without compromising durability and performance.”

The World Natural Hair Show Prepares For Its Most Impactful Event Yet

ATLANTA, PRNewswire -- The World Natural Hair Show returns for its 23rd year this April 22-23 at the Georgia International Convention Center! More than an annual event, The World Natural Hair Show is a cultural movement that continues to positively change society’s views of black beauty, cultures and lifestyle. This year’s show focuses on the concepts of self-love, confidence and community through educational workshops and panels, awards ceremonies, over 250 vendors and leaders within multicultural beauty, live music and entertainment, and meaningful conversations that uplift and encourage the community.

The 2023 show’s theme of self-love, confidence and community embodies the event’s larger mission and ethos. Every spring, the Natural Hair Show brings together beauty businesses and professionals, industry leaders, retail buyers, distributors and the consumers that support brands to strengthen the natural hair care industry and community. Since its genesis, the event has sparked a cultural movement that has had positive ripple effects across society. The leading lifestyle event has helped redefine antiquated notions of mainstream beauty - instead celebrating non-conforming freedom, and progressive expressions of natural hair and beauty.

This year, the theme will be brought to life through special activations, workshops, awards and opportunities for honest, vulnerable conversation.

Events & Workshops: There will be workshops for beauty professionals as well as consumer attendees that include DIY hair, fashion and hobbies, in addition to, a braiding and loc design competition. There will also be a Men’s Den Event, which will feature The Good Man Panel Discussion, focusing on modern masculinity and bringing men together through conscious conversation. The Power Panel Plus which will feature guests 19 Keys, Dr. Sebe’s Daughter, Dr. Holistic, and Stephan Speaks, among others

Social Engagement & Campaign: The Natural Hair Show team will engage the community to create a dynamic social campaign surrounding the theme, asking attendees what the words mean to them, and sharing their responses far and wide on social media.

Events & Awards: There will be a second annual Women Of Color In Business Summit, a

wealth-building event reserved for women who are looking for support, funding and connections, sponsored by Wells Fargo, Charles Schwab, Prudential and Walmart. Additionally, the Award of Excellence Gala will return for its 5th annual event, with a portion of the proceeds from ticket sales going towards sponsorships for two beauty and/or barber school graduates to help start and fund their businesses.

Exhibitioners: This year’s 250+ varied exhibitioners include category leaders, such as AMBI, Mielle Organics, Camille Rose Naturals, Rucker Roots, Creme of Nature, Jamaican Black Castor Oil and many more.

The show is brought to life by Taliah Waajid, a category creator and pioneer who turned her love of natural hair into a successful business that has created opportunity for countless people in the Black community. Taliah grew up in Harlem, an experience that has led her to believe that anyone can be successful if they have confidence, tools, knowledge, and direction. Taliah has given back through her business, mentoring, providing employment, education and more, with the mission to create opportunities for millions. The World Natural Hair Event is another platform that she has created to live out her goals of uplifting her community and provide opportunity to those full of potential.

Taliah is also the creator of The Taliah Waajid brand, regarded as the first complete line of natural, chemical-free hair care products, offering 5 collections of healthy hair product lines that range from Natural Hair Care, Scalp Care to Curly Hair Care, Protective Styling, and more. The original and best-in-class natural hair and beauty line, the eponymous line established Taliah as the “conventional beauty industry” disruptor and continues to set the golden industry standards, based on the highest quality natural formulations & botanical ingredients.

For over 25 years, Taliah Waajid has been a leading Natural Hair Care specialist, a licensed Master cosmetologist and the manufacturer of the first complete line of beauty products for natural, chemical-free hair care. Her eponymous line consists of seven collections each designed to address the specific needs of African American hair no matter how you choose to wear your hair. All products are free of harsh chemicals and are cruelty free.

The Trailmade collection was designed from the groundup and guided by insights from members of REI’s inclusion advisory panel of BIPOC, LGBTQ+, body positive and adaptive communities in collaboration with Unlikely Hikers, Latino Outdoors, 52 Hike Challenge and Fresh Tracks at the Aspen Institute. The panel added feedback to inspire designs that were familiar, approachable to more people, and reduced common feelings of intimidation that frequently come with getting started outside.

“For too long, we’ve had to make outdoor gear work for us that wasn’t made with our unique access needs—be they fit, function or financial—in mind,” said Jenny Bruso, founder of Unlikely Hikers. “The Trailmade collection is more than an invitation to the table. It’s an invitation to getting our best lives outside.”

The Trailmade collection is available exclusively for REI members in REI stores and on REI.com through May 1, when sales open to the broader public. Designed to best suit the needs and lifestyles of the ever-evolving outdoor enthusiasts. Highlights include:

REI Co-op Trailmade 20 Sleeping Bag: This year the co-op introduces an affordable, gender-free sleeping bag in a variety of sizes for under $100. This synthetic, 20-degree, mummy-style sleeping bag provides warmth and comfort, even under damp conditions, designed for all body shapes. The bag is available in six sizes including short, short wide, regular, regular wide, long, and long wide sizing. $99.95.

PRNewsFoto/REI

REI Co-op Trailmade 60-Liter Pack: This pack’s adjustable torso design makes it easy for people of different sizes to enjoy or share with a regular fit range of XS to 4X for women, S to 4X for men. $149.

REI Co-op Trailmade 2 Tent with Footprint: This two-door, two vestibule tent is designed with a dome-shaped, two-pole configuration and color coding for an easy set-up. $179.

REI Co-op Trailmade Apparel: Includes a variety of tops from fleece layers to rainproof shells, and bottoms from hiking shorts to hiking pants, all available in tall options for men as well as a range of men’s S-XXXL and women’s XS-3X. Pricing varies.

REI is a specialty outdoor retailer, headquartered near Seattle. The nation’s largest consumer co-op, REI is a growing community of 21.5 million members who expect and love the best quality gear, inspiring expert classes and trips, and outstanding customer service. REI has 181 locations in 42 states and the District of Columbia. If you can’t visit a store, you can shop at REI.com, REI Outlet or the REI shopping app. REI isn’t just about gear. Adventurers can take the trip of a lifetime with REI’s active adventure travel company that runs more than 100 itineraries across the country. In many communities where REI has a presence, professionally trained instructors share their expertise by hosting beginner-to advanced-level classes and workshops about a wide range of activities. To build on the infrastructure that makes life outside possible, REI invests millions annually in hundreds of local and national nonprofits that create access to— and steward—the outdoor places that inspire us all.

Photos by L.M. Warbington Photography

Splash Blast® and Splash Fizz® tap Master Mixer

T-Pain as its first ever Master of Splashermonies

STAMFORD, Conn., PRNewswire -- Adding flavor to hydration requires a serious mixing game, and who better to call on than the artist who changed music by pioneering autotuning and continues to defy expectations, showcasing his stunning voice with a new covers album? That’s why BlueTriton Brands Splash Blast® and Splash Fizz® tapped world-renowned music artist and entrepreneur T-Pain as their first ever Master of Splashermonies.

Known for his iconic tunes like, “Buy U A Drank (Shawty Snappin’),” “Bartender,” and his just-released hit covers album, On Top of the Covers, T-Pain stars in a new campaign for Splash Blast and Splash Fizz, which features an original song by him.

BlueTriton Chief Marketing Officer Kheri Holland Tillman says, “For the past decade, T-Pain has changed people’s perceptions of music and sound. He has made the ordinary extraordinary, fun, and unexpected. Splash Blast and Splash Fizz take the same approach. Our bold flavors bring unexpected fun to getting hydrated. Together, T-Pain and Splash are allowing hydration to live in a wonderfully weird world where anything goes.”

“Honestly I’ve been looking for a water that I want to drink all the time that does not taste like water,” says T-Pain. “I’m not a big fan of regular water! I tried Splash Blast and Splash Fizz and was instantly hooked. It only made sense to team up. We have a true authentic partnership and just like I have incorporated Splash Fizz into my everyday life, they have taken my everyday life and incorporated it into the brand. We got a Splash Fizz DJ competition show coming up that will be on my Twitch channel. I’m excited for everyone to see all the stuff we got planned.”

Later this month, T-Pain will be hosting the show Splashback on Twitch, where he will judge up-and-coming artists who will play their new music for him. The show will stream live on Twitch and could be described as a mashup of Kenny Beats, “The Cave” YouTube series and more traditional music competition shows like The Masked Singer or American Idol.

Stay on top of all things T-Pain, Splash Blast® and Splash Fizz®. On social media, follow @drinksplash and @tpain on Instagram as well the podcast, Nappy Boy Radio with T-Pain.

Splash Blast® Flavored Water Beverage and Splash Fizz® Flavored Water Beverage bring a burst of fun to hydration. Started in 2005, Splash Blast® was launched to add flavor and excitement to water beverages without adding sugar. Sold in flavors including Wild Berry and Acai Grape, Splash Blast® combines purified water with natural flavors to create a taste explosion. Last year, Splash Fizz® joined the hydration party featuring new effervescent flavors like Black Cherry and Blood Orange to satisfy those seeking bubbles in their bottles.

BlueTriton Brands offers an extensive portfolio of highly recognizable, responsibly sourced, and sustainably packaged spring water and other water brands including Poland Spring® Brand, Deer Park® Brand, Ozarka® Brand, Ice Mountain® Brand, Zephyrhills® Brand, Arrowhead® Brand, Origin™ Natural Spring Water, Saratoga® Spring Water, AC+ION® Alkaline Water, Pure Life®, Splash Blast® Flavored Water Beverage and Splash Fizz® Fruit Flavored Sparkling Water Beverage. BlueTriton Brands also owns and operates ReadyRefresh®, a customizable water and beverage delivery service that has been certified as a CarbonNeutral® business.

Based in Stamford, Connecticut, BlueTriton Brands and its affiliates in the United States and Canada employ approximately 6,600 associates. BlueTriton Brands manages resources for long-term sustainability, and conserves more than 20,000 acres of watershed area. The Company has 28 production facilities across the United States, 13 of which are Alliance for Water Stewardship (“AWS”) certified across 12 sites, with eight of the certified facilities being AWS Platinum, the highest-level certification.

KEM CELEBRATES 20TH ANNIVERSARY OF BEING SIGNED TO MOTOWN

LOS ANGELES, PRNewswire -- Four-time GRAMMY®-nominated R&B superstar KEM, one of the most distinctive and vital voices in music, commemorates his 20th anniversary of being signed to the Motown label with two new career firsts: the release of his first book, and his first live album. He kicked-off a monthlong celebration this morning with an interview and performance on ABC’s “Good Morning America,” and tomorrow, he will appear with Tamron Hall on her Emmy Award®-winning daytime talk show “Tamron Hall Show.”

KEM prepares to share his life with fans, with the release of his revealing and inspiring memoir, Share My Life: A Journey of Love, Faith, and Redemption, published by Simon and Schuster. Share My Life, also the title of one of his #1 hit singles, traces KEM’s transformative journey from childhood to homelessness to internationally renowned singer-songwriter.

Known for his smooth and impeccable style, KEM’s journey to the stage is nothing short of inspiring. Praised by Kirkus Reviews as a “forthright chronicle of hardwon success,” Share My Life chronicles KEM’s incredible journey of self-discovery. As a young man, KEM’s mother was never without a beer in her hand, and his relationship with his father was oddly tense. Emotionally starved, he internalized harmful feelings, which eventually led to him spiraling and turning to alcohol and drug use in search of relief. While bouncing around to several homeless shelters and drug rehab centers, KEM perfected the songs that revitalized his spirit and would later appear on his first album, KEMISTRY, the cornerstone of a body of work that has touched millions, topped the music charts, and earned him a spot among the legendary icons etched atop Motown’s marquee.

“Having the ability to be open and transparent about my life has not always been easy for me. I’m final ly at a point where I’m at peace with who I am, I have a love-filled marriage and family life, and I’ve been able to positively impact some folks. I believe that, with the platform I hold, it’s my responsibility to share my lifemy hardships & my successes - so that I might encour age & inspire others.” - KEM

ANNIVERSARY - THE LIVE ALBUM was released on Friday, April 7, by Motown Records, KEM’s label home for 20 years – since the February 2003 release of his debut album, KEMISTRY. Recorded in Fall 2022 at The Aretha Franklin Amphitheatre in Detroit, the new live album showcases the musical mastery and captivating vocals of one of the world’s most treasured singer-songwriters. It includes powerful renditions of songs from throughout KEM’s career, including his No. 1 hits, “Love Calls,” “I Can’t Stop Loving You,” “Why Would You Stay,” “Nobody,” “Lie To Me” and “Stuck On You.” Pre-save the album here: Anniversary - The Live Album Pre-Save

“Celebrating the 20th Anniversary of my signing to the Motown label is exceptionally significant for me. As a young man creating music, only in my wildest dreams could I envision a life that could encapsulate the magnitude of a moment like this. My heart is filled with gratitude to my Motown family for having faith in my debut album, KEMISTRY, and continuing to support my musical journey of love. Having the last two decades of my career culminate in a live album recorded in Detroit, in the city and with the people who first heard “Love Calls” and helped put me on the map, is

epic.” - KEM

The SOUL II SOUL TOUR, KEM’s co-headlining national arena run with Ledisi, featuring special guest Musiq Soulchild, resumes this Friday with a show at Cincinnati’s Heritage Bank Center. The three R&B powerhouses originally toured together during KEM’s 2011 INTIMACY TOUR. Tickets on sale now at musicbykem. com.

For all his life, KEM has been driven by the emotions involved in bringing his music to life. Today, the internationally renowned R&B singer-songwriter has to his credit: one Platinum-selling album (KEM: ALBUM II); two Gold-selling albums (KEMISTRY; INTIMACY); four GRAMMY® nominations; and eight #1 hit singles (“Love Calls,” “I Can’t Stop Loving You,” “Why Would You Stay,” “It’s You,” “Nobody,” “Lie To Me,” “Live Out Your Love,” ft. Toni Braxton and “Stuck On You”), along with several sold-out national tours and international shows.

Track Listing – Anniversary The Live Album

1 Intro

2 Love Calls

3 My Favorite Thing

4 You’re On My Mind

5 Nobody

6 Heaven

7 Stuck On You

8 Share My Life

9 Why Would You Stay

10 Lie to Me

11 I Can’t Stop Lovin’ You

12 Find Your Way (Back In My Life)

For more information, visit www.musicbykem.com or www.facebook.com/musicbykem.

Photo Credit: Keith Majors

Reassessments Begin in Cook County’s South and West Suburbs

Property Values for Riverside Township Released

Cook County – Cook County Assessor Fritz Kaegi released the initial assessments of residential and commercial properties in Riverside Township. Property owners can expect to receive their Reassessment Notice in the mail within the week.

“In preparation for reassessments, I proactively met with mayors in the south and west suburbs to share trends in the real estate market over the past three years and explain the impact these trends have on reassessments” said Assessor Kaegi. “This effort has also sparked meaningful conversation around economic development plans and provided valuable insight on the municipalities undergoing reassessment.”

The Assessor’s Office reassesses onethird of the county every year. In 2023, the south and west suburbs of Cook County are undergoing reassessment.

When a property is reassessed, the property owner is mailed a Reassessment Notice. The Reassessment Notice reflects the estimated fair market value based on sales of similar properties over the past three years. The notice also contains important information such as the property’s characteristics, neighborhood code, and past assessments. An increase in a property’s assessment does not cause the same increase in the property owner’s taxes.

After a township undergoes reassessment, a valuation report is released that provides details on residential, commercial, and multifamily reassessments. Property owners can use these reports to gain insight on how property assessments work, learn about the real estate market in their specific neighborhood, and compare the median to their property value. The Valuation Reports for Riverside Township can be found at cookcountyassessor. com/valuation- reports.

Residential Properties

Residential assessments are based on recent sale prices of similar properties. To get a better picture of the real estate market in Riverside Township, the chart above demonstrates median sale prices over the last five years. The median sale price in 2022 for single-family homes was $361K, $146K for condos, and $400K for small apartment buildings.

The Assessor’s median market value estimate for single-family homes is $364K, for condos $144K, and $420K for small apartment buildings.

Commercial Properties

Commercial property assessments are calculated by determining a property’s use, estimated income, market level vacancy, collections loss, and expenses. Applicable real estate operating expenses include property taxes, insurance, repair and maintenance costs, and property manage -

ment fees.

The varying property tax rates throughout the south and west suburbs were accounted for in operating expense ratios.

The Assessor’s Office uses unloaded capitalization rates when deriving market values for

properties. The cost of real estate taxes is included in the operating expense ratio, which eliminates the need to load the capitalization rate.

To learn more about how commercial reassessments work, read the full Commercial Valuation Report. Commercial and multifamily property owners can go a step further and locate their property on a methodology worksheet that contains the data used to assess their property.

The chart above shows a high-level overview of the commercial properties in Riverside Township. Read the Full Commercial Report

How do assessment appeals work

Property owners are given an opportunity to appeal their assessment if the property characteristics listed on an assessment notice are incorrect, or if the estimated market value of a property is significantly more than what it could sell for in the current real estate market.

Appeals for Riverside Township can be filed until May 1, 2023. More information can be found at appeals. To learn more about property assessments and appeals, join the Assessor’s Office at an outreach event and download a helpful guide.

BUSINESS

Does Your Business Qualify for the ERC Federal Assistance Program?

(StatePoint) The strength of the country relies on its estimated 33.2 million small businesses, which comprise 99.9 percent of all American businesses. COVID threatened, and in some cases forced, the closure of many small enterprises and tens of thousands are still reeling from the aftermath of the full pandemic.

In an effort to offer some relief, the federal government created the Employee Retention Credit (ERC) Program under the IRS that has already helped thousands of qualifying businesses receive up to $26,000 per employee.

Unfortunately, not enough small business owners are aware of the program. Others don’t think they will qualify, leaving billions of dollars on the table that could help them recover and continue to move forward. Companies such as ERC Helpdesk, www.erchelpdesk.com, have been created to help small businesses determine their qualifications and navigate the ERC program. Now is the perfect time for business owners around the country to see if they make the cut.

A small business can receive an ERC even if it received PPP. The program is flexi-

ble enough that most businesses will likely be eligible. The average claim is $150,000, but there is no cap on the amount.

“I was the owner of a marketing business that assisted dozens of small business owners so I witnessed firsthand the challenges and sweat equity involved in taking such a big risk,” said ERC Helpdesk chief marketing officer, Greg Ross-Smith. “Our founder was and remains a small business owner himself who was initially told his businesses would not qualify for an ERC and

SENIOR LIVING

there was nobody he could find to make sense of the program. When he finally learned about the program details and what the actual qualifications are, not only did he apply and receive funds, he decided to create a way to assist other small business owners in taking advantage of the funding available for their businesses.”

Here are the basics to see if you qualify:

• Your business is based in the United States.

• You retained and paid W2 employees during 2020 and 2021.

• Your business was impacted by COVID restrictions in one or more of the following ways:

1. Loss of revenue

2. Supply chain disruptions

Annual Wellness Exam is Key to a Healthy Year for Older Adults

(StatePoint) You’ve selected your insurance plan for the year. Now, it’s time to start using your benefits, beginning with an annual wellness exam.

An annual wellness exam with a health care provider is important for everyone, but especially for older adults. As we age, we are more likely to develop chronic health conditions, according to Dr. J.B. Sobel, chief medical officer for Cigna Medicare, which serves hundreds of thousands of older adults through its products. An annual wellness exam can help detect potential health issues early so they can be addressed before they worsen, he added.

“By meeting with your primary care provider early in the year, you can highlight the things that are important to you, and work together to develop a plan for your care for the year ahead,” Sobel said. “This will ensure you live each day with vitality, happiness and improved health.”

Many providers will reach out to schedule an annual wellness exam. If your provider doesn’t contact you, make sure to call them.

A number of annual check-ups are available at no extra cost to those with Medicare.

They include a “Welcome to Medicare” visit for customers who have just reached Medicare eligibility and an “Annual Wellness Exam” for existing customers. Many Medicare Advantage (MA) plans offer more extensive annual visits at no extra cost. Some even offer incentives for completing a visit. Talk with your provider and Medicare insurer about your benefits.

Each annual exam may be a little different. Regardless of the type, Sobel offers the

following tips to ensure you get the most from your visit.

Prepare. Before you go, write down anything you’d like to discuss with your health care provider, including changes to your health over the past year. Bring your prescription and over-the-counter medications with you. Ask plenty of questions and take notes. You might even want to take along a family member, trusted friend or caregiver to ensure you understand everything your provider has shared.

Be open and honest. It’s tempting to make things look rosier than they are when talking to your health care provider, but minimizing what you are feeling can lead to an incorrect diagnosis or prescription. Speak openly about unhealthy habits, like smoking or lack of exercise. Your provider won’t judge you. Being honest

is the only way your health care provider can help you reach your goals.

Mind mental health. Your emotional health impacts your physical health. Many people think depression is a natural part of aging, but it doesn’t have to be. Talk to your doctor if you are feeling sad, anxious or hopeless. Treatments, such as talk therapy, medication or both, may be covered by Medicare.

Monitor medications. Adults age 65 and older tend to take more medications than other age groups, increasing the risk for adverse reactions, such as cognitive impairment and falls. It’s a good idea to take your medications to your annual wellness exam and discuss any potential problems or side effects you’re experiencing. Don’t forget about over-the-counter drugs, vitamins or nutritional supplements you take.

Schedule screenings and get vaccines. There are a number of important health screenings and vaccines that you may need depending on your age and gender, such as colon cancer screening, bone density test, mammogram, flu shot or COVID-19 immunization. Ask your provider about the screenings and vaccines you’ve had already and schedule any you need as soon as possible. You may even be able to do that before you leave the office. Also, don’t forget to visit your eye doctor and dentist. These visits are covered by many MA plans as well. Find out more at www.cignamedicare.com.

“You wouldn’t drive your vehicle without proper preventive maintenance, so please don’t ignore preventive maintenance for your most prized possession – your health,” Sobel said. “An annual wellness exam is a great place to start!”

3.

Full or partial shutdown of your business

Now a growing industry, ERC companies are popping up all over so be wary about who you work with. Ideally, try to work with a company you know, or at least one that understands the needs and inner workings of a small business. Often, it helps to work with a smaller sized ERC business that’s accessible and that will work with your submission on a one-on-one basis. Bigger isn’t always better in this industry. Of course, partnering with a company that maintains a high approval rate for its clients is a critical point of measurement as many companies can waste your time and get your hopes up by simply submitting anything knowing the chances of success are slim. Finally, to the

degree you can determine it, try to work with a company that will process your application as quickly as possible while focusing on reducing errors that can delay the process.

“So many small businesses are built organically with the participation, support and hard work of family and friends. As a result, we understand the investment of time, resources and relationships that go into every business we work with,” said Ross-Smith. “In the ERC business, integrity, trust and customer service rule and that’s what I’d urge all applicants to consider in navigating their eligibility for the program. Our only goal is to help them qualify and then maximize their efforts and amount of compensation they receive.”

PHOTO SOURCE: (c) PeopleImages / iStock via Getty Images Plus

PHOTO SOURCE: (c) Jupiterimages / iStock via Getty Images Plus