South End Citizen 7-26-2023

The Chicago Football Classic is back after a hiatus because of the pandemic. This year, Mississippi Valley State University and Central State University will play on Saturday, Sept. 2nd, at Soldiers Field. It is the 25th year for the football game that features teams from Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs).

Larry Huggins, co-founder of the Chicago Football Classic, along elected officials during a press conference about the Chicago Football Classic. PHOTO PROVIDED BY CHICAGO FOOTBALL CLASSIC.

Mississippi Valley State University’s Athletic Director and Football Coach during a press conference about the Chicago Football Classic.

PHOTO PROVIDED BY CHICAGO FOOTBALL CLASSIC.

REP. KELLY’S BILL STRENGTHENING AMERICAN PREPAREDNESS FOR PUBLIC HEALTH THREATS PASSES E&C HEALTH SUBCOMMITTEE

WASHINGTON D.C. – Congresswoman Robin Kelly’s (IL-02) legislation, the Helping Evaluate Appropriate Logistical Infrastructure for National Government (HEALING) Response Act, was approved by the House Energy and Commerce Subcommittee on Health. The bill will ensure the United States is prepared to mass produce medical countermeasures, such as medicines and medical supplies, in the case of a public health emergency or public health threats.

The bill is co-led by Congressman Bob Latta (OH-05) and is part of a broader package, the Pandemic and All-Hazard Preparedness (PAHPA) Reauthorization Act, which now awaits full Energy and Commerce Committee consideration.

“As we reflect on the tragedy our country endured because of COVID-19, we are left wondering if our government is prepared to address another pandemic,” said Congresswoman Kelly. “I am proud to cosponsor the HEALING Act of 2023 with Rep. Bob Latta to answer these questions and help Congress plan ahead and act quickly should we face another pandemic. This bill would direct the U.S. Comptroller General to review the status of existing preparedness efforts and make recommendations regarding programs to produce medical countermeasures domestically. We can’t go just go on offense against the next pandemic, we need to build our defensive systems now to save lives later.”

HEALING Response Act:

H.R. 3703 – the HEALING Response Act – would require the U.S. Comptroller General to review and issue recommendations regarding the status of existing efforts and programs rapidly to produce medical countermeasures domestically, including the Centers for Innovation and Advanced Drug Manufacturing, the National Biopharmaceutical Manufacturing Partnership, and Industrial Base Expansion Connect.

CONGRESSMAN JONATHAN L. JACKSON CO-LEADS CBC SPECIAL ORDER ON AFFIRMATIVE ACTION

WASHINGTON D.C. – Congressman

Jonathan L. Jackson co-led a critical Congressional Black Caucus (CBC) Special Order Hour, dissecting the impact of the recent Supreme Court ruling against affirmative action. Congresswoman Shelia Cherfilus-McCormick cohosted this pivotal discussion alongside him.

In his address, Congressman Jackson underscored the historical context of systematic injustice that affirmative action aimed to rectify, stating, “Black people in America have never asked this country to give us special treatment. What we have rightly demanded is there be policies put in place that do not intentionally and unrepentantly exclude us from participating in the benefits of the American dream.”

The Congressman critiqued the Supreme Court’s decision for not aligning with historical precedent, current realities of America, or the struggle for racial equality. He shed light on the inherent inequities in the education system, saying, “According to Forbes Magazine, approximately 42% of the applicants accepted into Harvard University were donor-related applicants—while another 34% were legacy admits.”

Despite the recent setback, Congressman Jackson remains resolute and advocates for tangible changes. “It’s not enough to express outrage, we must channel it into action,” he urged, calling on his congressional colleagues to work together to create legislation ensuring liberty, justice, and equal access to education for all.

In his concluding remarks, Congressman Jackson emphasized the future vision of the nation. “This is about the kind of nation we want to be, and the kind of future we want to leave for those who come after us,” he passionately declared, expressing his commitment to a more just America that serves all its citizens.

Chicago Football Classic is Back!

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BY TIA CAROL JONES

Tahman Bradley, of WGN-TV, talked about the value of attending a Historically Black College and University. “That’s what you get at an HBCU, tremendous diversity. You’re accepted for who you are, you bring something unique and different. Our HBCU’s are so valuable and so important,” Bradley, who graduated from Howard University, said.

Larry Huggins, co-founder of the Chicago Football Classic, talked about the history of the game and how elected officials have supported the game, year in and year out. Huggins said that the elected officials have made a commitment to bring young people from their districts and wards to the Classic in September. Huggins spoke about how he and Everett Rand wanted to bring a football classic to Chicago after going to the Circle City Classic in Indianapolis.

Lamont Robinson, 4th Ward Alderman, talked about how the Chicago Football Classic not only brings football teams from HBCUs to Chicago, there is also a scholarship component to the event. As a graduate of Clark-Atlanta University, Robinson understands the importance of Historically Black Colleges and the importance of education.

“I want to thank Larry and his team and the Rands for all they do, not only around education, but supporting the African-American community 365 days a year. Not just for the game, but for Christmas in the Wards. They are the ones who make our city great,” Robinson said.

Stephanie Coleman, 16th Ward Alderman, recalled the first time she attended the Chicago Football Classic. “Thank you for

1-800-TRUCKWRECK

blessing us with not only this experience, but for curating a time that our Black boys and girls will witness what an HBCU looks like and bringing Black leadership to the greatest city ever,” Coleman said. “Having a college fair and extending an opportunity so that our children will know and have a chance to be students.” Huggins said that every year, the College Fair gives $1M in college scholarships to the students who attend and go to HBCUs. He added, with the Supreme Court’s decision on Affirmative Action, attending an HBCU is more important now than ever before. This year Huggins also wants to fill every one of the 62,000-plus seats at Soldier Field.

Glenn Eden, Chairman of Choose Chicago, called the Chicago Football Classic an iconic event. “This family-oriented event continues to highlight the opportunities and the wealth of knowledge students receive at these prolific schools. This event adds to a unique diversity and inclusivity of tourism in our great city, by bringing together so many HBCU alumni, students and fans in Chicagoland and across the nation,” he said.

City of Chicago Treasurer Melissa Conyears-Ervin announced a new initiative, in partnership with the Huggins and the Rand families, called the Chicago Financial Youth Symposium and Greek Show. It will be a prelude to the game on Thursday, Aug. 31st, at Chicago State University. During the event, young people, grades 9-12, will receive information necessary for them to attend college and vocational training, as well as assistance to apply for scholarship and grant opportunities.

For more information about the Chicago Football Classic, visit https://www.chicagofootballclassic.org.

TO AWARD $30K TO CHICAGO HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS

CHICAGO – 1-800-TruckWreck is committed to giving back to the Chicago community. On Tuesday, July 18, it brought its 2023 Making a Difference scholarship to the city for the first time. The award presentation will take place on Tuesday, July 18 from 11 a.m. – 1 p.m. at Charles Hayes Center (4859 South Wabash Ave., Chicago 60615).

Hosted in partnership with the Chicago Urban League, 12 graduating seniors will each be awarded $2500 scholarships—renewable each year, for a total of $30,000 in scholarship funds awarded by 1-800-TruckWreck—to provide financial support as they work toward their futures. Created in 2014 by Amy Witherite, owner of 1-800-TruckWreck, the Making a Difference scholarship provides financial assistance to students who have demonstrated leadership in their schools and communities.

“We recently became a part of the Chicago community, so we are very excited to bring our Making a Difference scholarship to this beautiful city,” said Amy Witherite, owner of 1-800-TruckWreck. “Supporting hardworking students in their journeys is something

we are proud to be a part of. Every single one of these young individuals is well deserving of the award.”

The names of the 12 “Making a Difference” Scholarship recipients are as follows:

Carolina Perez

Nyasia Sims

Keeland Jordan

Laila Givens

Mario Guzman

Shelby Holloway

Kourtney Johnson

Yasmine Velazquez

Mia Paulus

Mariah Tyler

Tywan McClinton

LaSaundra Criswell

1-800-TruckWreck has been awarding scholarships in the Atlanta and Dallas-Fort Worth communities through the Making a Difference program since 2014 as part of its mission to support youth in underserved communities as they work hard toward their future careers and academic goals. This will be the

Central State University’s Athletic Director and Football Coach during a press conference about the Chicago Football Classic. PHOTO PROVIDED BY CHICAGO FOOTBALL CLASSIC.

MAYOR BRANDON JOHNSON LAUNCHES CAMPAIGN TO CLOSE CHICAGO’S DEVICE GAP

CHICAGO — Mayor Brandon Johnson, in partnership with World Business Chicago, announced the launch of a month-long campaign encouraging Chicago’s business community and large organizations to donate computers and laptops no longer in use to be refurbished and given to families who need a device.

According to Census data, as many as 260,000 Chicago households don’t have a computer at home. Through the Chicago Digital Equity Council, 61% of participants discussed affordability as a barrier to digital equity, with 29% saying that devices are too costly. In a citywide survey of more than 3,000 residents, nearly half of respondents without a device are

living in extreme poverty.

To close this 260,000-device gap, the City is partnering with two non-profits, PCs for People and Compudopt, who accept retired computers and laptops, data-wipe and refurbish them, and provide them to households for free or a low cost.

“The digital divide disproportionately impacts South and West Side communities and has a severe impact on our youth and students. This is why I am committed to ensuring that every student has a laptop, tablet or computer at home,” said Mayor Brandon Johnson. “I am proud to launch Chi Device Donation Month, which will help put these devices into the hands of students and their families, and remove a long-standing barrier to achievement, employment, and helping Chicagoans thrive well into the 21st century.”

“We are honored to stand with Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson and rally Chicago companies to support the ‘Chi Device Donation Month’ initiative,” said Michael Fassnacht, President & CEO of World Business Chicago, and Chief Marketing Officer, City of Chicago. “Through the donation of old devices, we can change the lives of our neighbors without access, enabling them to seize educational opportunities, pursue promising careers, and stay connected. Together, we possess a real opportunity to provide tangible and life-changing impact on our fellow residents, fostering an inclusive and interconnected future for all.”

bution events, giveaways, and more. This campaign implements a recommendation in the Digital Equity Plan, Chicago’s citywide plan to close the digital divide.

Interested donors can learn more and make a pledge at chi.gov/DeviceDonation.

“At Compudopt we believe that digital inclusion lays the foundation for economic mobility and a more equitable future. Our partnership with the City of Chicago and other partners is a meaningful step toward closing the digital divide. Through the collection, refurbishment, and deployment of donated devices, we are empowering individuals in Chicago to access educational opportunities, job opportunities, and essential services. Together, we are building a brighter future for the City of Chicago,” said Megan Steckly, CEO of Compudopt.

SIMMONS CELEBRATES EXPANDED REHABILITATION LAWS FOR RETURNING CITIZENS

SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Mike Simmons championed a new law to expand support for returning citizens to help them reintegrate successfully into their communities and reduce recidivism.

“Returning residents deserve the opportunity to stabilize their lives upon returning to their communities,” said Simmons (D-Chicago). “Hitting them with outstanding fees and dues immediately following their return is not feasible and often leads to increased recidivism.”

Senate Bill 2175 prohibits courts from ordering the payment of outstanding fees, fines, taxes or any costs arising from criminal proceedings for the first year after a person returns from incarceration. Currently, Illinois does not have a law striking fees for a certain amount of days post-confinement. However, under the Unified Code of Corrections, the court may revoke a fine if good cause is shown.

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

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

ChicagoWeekend,South Suburban

Organizations interested in donating their retired computers can fill out a pledge form and will be contacted by PCs for People or Compudopt to schedule a pickup. Following the monthlong campaign, the opportunity to donate computers will be available on an on-going basis. The City, through the Chicago Digital Equity Coalition, will also promote opportunities for households to obtain the refurbished devices through community distri-

“We are thrilled to partner with Mayor Johnson and World Business Chicago on this vital initiative to support digital inclusion in Chicago. PCs for People’s model to distribute low-cost computers to communities in need, while also providing a valuable service to businesses, has been making a difference across the country since 2008. Since then, we have recycled over 13 million pounds of e-waste and distributed over 260,000 computers nationally, including computers to over 4,300 households right here in Chicago. This work is only possible thanks to the savvy businesses who choose to turn their retired devices into opportunities. We look forward to increasing our community and environmental impact in Chicago through this initiative,” said Casey Sorensen, CEO, PCs for People.

For more information on enrolling in free or low-cost internet, accessing affordable devices, and signing up for digital skill building opportunities, visit Chicago.gov/digitalequity and click on Resource Hub.

1-800-TRUCKWRECK... Continued From Page 2

first year the Making a Difference scholarship will be awarded in the Windy City since 1-800-TruckWreck recently opened a Chicago-based office in January 2023. Among all three communities, Witherite Law Group is awarding over $600,000 in scholarships to deserving young adults in 2023.

Scholarship awards were presented by Maya Hightower, Director of Community Relations for

Witherite Law Group, and Chris Provost, Attorney at Witherite Law Group – Chicago Office.

1-800-TruckWreck is a personal injury law firm with offices in Dallas, Fort Worth, Atlanta, and Chicago. The firm’s attorneys specialize in helping those injured in a car or truck accident and can be reached by calling 1-800-TruckWreck or 1-800-CarWreck, 24 hours a day.

“Recidivism reduction is doable, we just need to reform our laws to support the rehabilitation of our formerly incarcerated citizens,” Simmons said. “This law will serve as an intervention to reduce recidivism by offering reasonable payment requirements for formerly incarcerated individuals.”

Senate Bill 2175 was signed into law on Friday.

CONGRESSMAN DANNY K. DAVIS HAILS ILLINOIS SUPREME COURT’S HISTORIC RULING ON CASH BAIL

Washington DC- Today, Congressman Danny K. Davis stands alongside the Illinois Supreme Court in celebrating their groundbreaking decision to declare the elimination of cash bail constitutional. This landmark ruling establishes Illinois as the first state in the nation to abolish cash bail, reaffirming its commitment to a fair and just criminal justice system that respects the rights and dignity of all its citizens.

The Illinois Supreme Court’s ruling represents a significant step forward in addressing the systemic inequalities and injustices that have plagued our criminal justice system for far too long. By eliminating cash bail, we are ensuring that justice is not based on an individual’s financial status, but rather on the merits of their case and the principles of fairness and equity.

Congressman Davis acknowledges that the cash bail system disproportionately impacts lowincome communities and communities of color, often perpetuating a cycle of poverty and entrenching individuals in the criminal justice system. This ruling sends a powerful message that we are committed to breaking that cycle and creating a system that treats every person with dignity and fairness.

“I commend the Illinois Supreme Court for their courageous decision to eliminate cash bail,” said Congressman Danny K. Davis. “This ruling marks a pivotal moment in our ongoing efforts to reform our criminal justice system and ensure that it truly serves the best interests of our communities. By removing the financial barriers that have long hindered equal access to justice, we can now work towards a system that is built on rehabilitation, restoration, and compassion.”

Congressman Danny K. Davis recognizes that this ruling is just the beginning of a larger movement towards comprehensive criminal justice reform. He vows to continue fighting for policies that promote alternatives to incarceration, address the root causes of crime, and prioritize the rehabilitation and reintegration of individuals into society.

Davis commends the Illinois Supreme Court, legal advocates, community organizers, and all those who have dedicated their efforts to achieving this monumental victory for justice. Together, we can build a criminal justice system that upholds the values of equality, fairness, and humanity.

5 ways to build or rebuild your credit

SPONSORED BY JPMORGAN CHASE & CO.

Having strong credit can make it easier to get a car loan, mortgage, an apartment and even some jobs. Because lenders use your credit score to help assess your reliability as a borrower, a high credit score can help you qualify for lower loan interest rates – saving you money over the course of your lifetime. There’s no fast track to building credit or improving your current score, but you can help make the process much easier. These five steps can help:

1

Find out your current credit score

Most adults already have a credit score that can be obtained by requesting a credit report and reviewing it carefully. You’re entitled to one free report each year and can request it at AnnualCreditReport. com. Chase Credit Journey® can also help you manage, monitor and protect your credit.

2

Apply for a credit card

If you’re starting to build credit, credit cards can speed up the process if used responsibly. Since credit card companies report activity to credit agencies, healthy activity can be a huge help when it comes to building your credit. Student and other new-to-credit credit cards are a good option for those who are looking to build credit. Establishing a credit score and history requires having an account open for at least six months, so be patient and diligent about practicing healthy credit habits.

3 Address debt impacting your score

It’s expected for consumers to have some debt, but significant credit card debt and missed loan payments can have a major impact on your credit score. Pay bills on time and don’t overspend – maxing out a credit card or coming close to your limit will lower your score. If you’re working to rebuild your credit, pay down debt as much as possible and catch up on pastdue bills. Also be careful about searching for new lines of credit while carrying significant debt – lenders could see this as a risk and your score could drop.

4Practice good financial habits in other areas

Establishing a savings and checking account, renting an apartment and paying utility and other bills on time are among the activities that help show lenders you’re fiscally responsible. While these actions might not directly affect your credit score, they’re beneficial practices lenders will notice when considering your application for a car loan, mortgage or other major life goal.

5

Help your children build credit

Opening checking and savings accounts for your children can help teach them about everything from depositing your paycheck to easily paying your bills -- the basic building blocks of your financial infrastructure. You can also consider making your teenager an authorized user on your credit card account to assist them in establishing their own positive credit history. Take this approach if you consistently pay your credit card bill in full and on time, as late payments can also impact your child’s credit report, in addition to your own.

Building and rebuilding credit takes time and patience, but the results are worth it. A solid credit history can help you build generational wealth, reach your financial goals and establish long-term fiscal stability for you and your family. For more information on the basics of building credit, visit chase.com/personal/credit-cards/education.

Black Tech Week Announces New Media Division Including Partnerships With NBCUniversal, Inc. Magazine and Others

CINCINNATI, PRNewswire -- Black Tech Week (BTW) is thrilled to announce the creation of its new media division, Black Tech Weekly. This expansion aims to amplify the remarkable work of Black founders, partners, and ecosystems across the world.

“Black founder stories are not being told with authenticity. Often, the reporting amplifies themes of adversity and struggle , rather than focusing on the innovations and successes.” said Brian Brackeen, co- owner of Black Tech Week. Through Black Tech Weekly, we intend to deliberately change this narrative and realign the way mainstream media frames Black business culture.”

In a groundbreaking move, Black Tech Weekly has secured partnerships with several of the most influential outlets and corporations in the industry including Inc. Magazine, and NBCUniversal. The distribution and engagement power of these collaborations will help bring the extraordinary stories of Black innovators to a collective audience of over 100 million people, monthly. Specifically with NBCUniversal, Black Tech Weekly is tapping into the leading media and entertainment company’s massive scale; premium, trusted IP; and highly interactive audiences - creating custom content and exclusive, must-see event moments that will be produced by NBC’s Brand Studio. At Black Tech Week’s conference this July and beyond, audiences will have access to nearly 20 pieces of engaging, curated content wherever they choose to tune-in across NBCUniversal’s One Platform ecosystem from linear to digital and more on CNBC, MSNBC, NBC News and Peacock as well as Black Tech Week’s Channel on the Apple News app.

“Black Tech Weekly is an incredible organization, whose marquee event has become a transformative place to discuss content, connection and culture,” said Barrett McCree, Vice President, Advertising and Partnerships, NBCUniversal. “We are thrilled to partner with them, and to further extend the

reach and impact of Black Tech Weekly’s community across NBCUniversal’s One Platform.”

Furthering its commitment to honoring the narratives of Black founders, Black Tech Weekly has reached a unique agreement with its media partners to retain full editorial control across all channels, ensuring the highest standards of consistency and integrity across content. Black Tech Weekly’s media partners have also committed to cross-posting content across outlets and platforms, all published under the Black Tech Weekly brand. This is a horizontal media strategy that ensures Black Tech Weekly brand consistency across networks.

“We were honored to bring Inc. Founders House to Black Tech Week last year,” said Scott Omelianuk, Editor in Chief of Inc. Business Media. “And we are thrilled to return in 2023, but partnering on a storytelling destination with Black Tech Weekly will give Inc. the real opportunity to expand our mission and bring a broader community of founders together to offer the inspiration, information and solutions that will help them succeed better and faster.”

Black owned publications including Rolling Out and Black Wall Street Times will also join the partnership as Black Tech Weekly aims to amplify the voices and stories that define Black tech culture.

“Imagine a media landscape where Black creators and entrepreneurs are at the forefront, where their ideas are not only acknowledged but celebrated. This is the future we must strive for at Black Tech Weekly, and it starts today,” said Candice Matthews Brackeen, co-owner of Black Tech Week.

Black Tech Weekly is currently accepting new media partners and content creators who share our commitment to telling the stories of Black founders and the Black venture ecosystem. Contact us at info@blacktechweek.com

Black Tech Weekly is a culture driven media experience empowered by groundbreaking industry collaboration. By

partnering with mainstream multi media outlets and preeminent content creators of color, Black Tech Weekly amplifies the remarkable stories and work of Black founders, innovators, and ecosystems across the world.

Inc. Business Media is the leading multimedia brand for entrepreneurs. Through its journalism, Inc. aims to inform, educate and elevate the profile of our community: the risk-takers, the innovators, and the ultra-driven go-getters who are creating our future. Inc.’s award-winning work reaches more than 50 million people across a variety of channels, including events, print, digital, video, podcasts, newsletters, and social media. Its proprietary Inc. 5000 list, produced every year since 1982, analyzes company data to recognize the fastest-growing privately held businesses in the United States. The recognition that comes with inclusion on this and other prestigious Inc. lists, such as Female Founders and Power Partners, gives the founders of top businesses the opportunity to engage with an exclusive community of their peers, and credibility that helps them drive sales and recruit talent. For more information, visit www.inc.com.

NBCUniversal is one of the world’s leading media and entertainment companies. We create world-class content, which we distribute across our portfolio of film, television, and streaming, and bring to life through our theme parks and consumer experiences. We own and operate leading entertainment and news brands, including NBC, NBC News, MSNBC, CNBC, NBC Sports, Telemundo, NBC Local Stations, Bravo, USA Network, and Peacock, our premium ad-supported streaming service. We produce and distribute premier filmed entertainment and programming through Universal Filmed Entertainment Group and Universal Studio Group, and have world-renowned theme parks and attractions through Universal Destinations & Experiences. NBCUniversal is a subsidiary of Comcast Corporation. Visit www.nbcuniversal.com for more information.

Biden-Harris Administration to Provide 804,000 Borrowers with $39 Billion in Automatic Loan Forgiveness as a Result of Fixes to Income Driven Repayment Plans

The Department of Education (Department) today will begin notifying more than 804,000 borrowers that they have a total of $39 billion in Federal student loans that will be automatically discharged in the coming weeks. In total, the Biden-Harris Administration has approved more than $116.6 billion in student loan forgiveness for more than 3.4 million borrowers.

The forthcoming discharges are a result of fixes implemented by the Biden-Harris Administration to ensure all borrowers have an accurate count of the number of monthly payments that qualify toward forgiveness under income-driven repayment (IDR) plans. These fixes are part of the Department’s commitment to address historical failures in the administration of the Federal student loan program in which qualifying payments made under IDR plans that should have moved borrowers closer to forgiveness were not accounted for. Borrowers are eligible for forgiveness if they have accumulated the equivalent of either 20 or 25 years of qualifying months.

This action is part of the Biden-Harris Administration’s implementation of the payment count adjustment announced in April 2022. That action addressed historical inaccuracies in the count of payments that qualify toward forgiveness under IDR plans. Under the Higher Education Act and the Department’s regulations, a borrower is eligible for forgiveness after making 240 or 300 monthly payments—the equivalent of 20 or 25 years on an IDR plan or the standard repayment plan, with the number of required payments varying based upon when a borrower first took out the loans, the type of loans they borrowed, and the IDR payment plan in which the borrower is enrolled. Inaccurate payment counts have resulted in borrowers losing hard-earned progress toward loan forgiveness. This action also addresses concerns about practices by loan servicers that put borrowers into

forbearance in violation of Department rules. The Department previously began discharging loans for borrowers who reached forgiveness for Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) through these changes.

Borrowers receiving notifications in the coming days include those with Direct Loans or Federal Family Education Loans held by the Department (including Parent PLUS loans of either type) who have reached the necessary forgiveness threshold as a result of receiving credit toward IDR forgiveness for any of the following periods:

Any month in which a borrower was in a repayment status, regardless of whether payments were partial or late, the type of loan, or the repayment plan;

Any period in which a borrower spent 12 or more consecutive months in forbearance;

Any month in forbearance for borrowers who spent 36 or more cumulative months in forbearance;

Any month spent in deferment (except for in-school deferment) prior to 2013; and

Any month spent in economic hardship or military deferments on or after January 1, 2013.

In addition, months described above that occurred prior to a loan consolidation will also be counted toward forgiveness.

The Department will continue to identify and notify borrowers who reach the applicable forgiveness thresholds (240 or 300 qualifying monthly payments, depending on their repayment plan and type of loan) every two months until next year when all borrowers who are not yet eligible for forgiveness will have their payment counts updated. Any month counted for this purpose can also be counted toward PSLF if the borrower documents qualifying employment for that same period.

Eligible borrowers will be informed by the Department

starting today that they qualify for forgiveness without further action on their part. Discharges will begin 30 days after emails are sent. Borrowers who wish to opt out of the discharge for any reason should contact their loan servicer during this period. Borrowers will be notified by their servicer after their debt is discharged. Those receiving forgiveness will have repayment on their loans paused until their discharge is processed, while those who opt out of the discharge will return to repayment once payments resume.

This action builds on the Biden-Harris Administration’s unparalleled record of student debt relief to date, including:

$45 billion for 653,800 public servants through improvements to PSLF;

$5 billion for 491,000 borrowers who have a total and permanent disability; and

$22 billion for nearly 1.3 million borrowers who were cheated by their schools, saw their schools precipitously close, or are covered by related court settlements.

President Biden and the Department have also taken steps to help borrowers access affordable payments going forward. The Department recently issued final regulations creating the most affordable payment plan ever—the Saving on a Valuable Education (SAVE) plan. The SAVE plan will cut payments on undergraduate loans in half compared to other IDR plans, ensure that borrowers never see their balance grow as long as they keep up with their required payments, and protect more of a borrower’s income for basic needs. A single borrower who makes less than $15 an hour will not have to make any payments. Borrowers earning above that amount will save more than $1,000 a year on their payments compared to other IDR plans. Benefits from the SAVE plan will start becoming available this summer.

GET FREE TICKETS TO MSI AND WATCH THESE TEENS RACE TO A STEM FUTURE.

ComEd wants you and your family to experience the thrill of the ComEd EV Rally and enjoy a day at the Museum of Science and Industry—for free on Saturday, July 29th! Witness nine teams of Chicagoland girls race electric go-karts with the help of ComEd mentors.

The transition to clean energy is creating STEM jobs and opportunities in Northern Illinois. Programs like the EV Rally are helping prepare tomorrow’s workforce today.

JOFFREY ACADEMY OF DANCE, OFFICIAL SCHOOL OF THE JOFFREY BALLET, LAUNCHES A NATIONAL CALL FOR ALAANA ARTISTS

CHICAGO – The Joffrey Academy of Dance, Official School of The Joffrey Ballet, is seeking ALAANA (African, Latinx, Asian, Arab and Native American) artists to submit applications for the Joffrey Academy’s Fourteenth Annual Winning Works Choreographic Competition. The goal of the award is to recognize talented and emerging ALAANA choreographers whose unique perspective will ignite creativity in the form of original works of dance. The deadline for application is July 31.

The winning choreographers will be awarded a $5,000 stipend and given a minimum of 30 rehearsal hours. Choreographers will also be provided with travel and accommodations for the duration of their residency. The choreographic work must be original and developed by the applicant. The finished piece must be at least 10 minutes long (maximum of 12 minutes) and include a cast of at least 10 dancers. They will set their piece on the members of the Joffrey Studio Company, the Joffrey Academy Ballet Trainees, and the Joffrey Academy Contemporary Ballet Trainees, with the opportunity to seek guidance from Ashley Wheater MBE, The Mary B. Galvin Artistic Director of The Joffrey Ballet, and Abbott Academy Director Suzanne Lopez. The Joffrey Academy of Dance’s Winning Works program will be presented in eight performances at the Museum of Contemporary Art Chicago, Joffrey’s hosting partner, at MCA’s Edlis Neeson Theater, 220 E. Chicago Avenue in March 2024.

NEW FOR 2024: The Joffrey Academy of Dance will be offering a new opportunity that showcases an emerging Chicago-based ALAANA choreographer. This piece will be presented alongside works by the rest of the visiting Winning Works choreographers and will be set on the students of the Joffrey Conservatory Program. Additional details can be found in the application.

The full online application form is available at joffrey.org/winningworks. Questions can be emailed to winningworks@joffrey.org.

To apply, interested choreographers must submit an online application form, including:

· Video clip containing 2 or more choreography excerpts (please include original sound/music), along with a brief written description. Each choreography excerpt should not exceed 5 minutes. Submitted excerpts must include a work containing at least 8 dancers in the piece. In-studio rehearsal footage is also encouraged. Excerpts may be combined into one video or submitted in separate video clips.

· A letter of intent describing your interest in the competition and the kind of work you will create in 500-1,000 words

· Headshot · Curriculum Vitae

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BLACK PUBLIC MEDIA AWARDS OVER $160,000 FOR VACCINE EQUITY PROJECTS

NEW YORK — Black Public Media (BPM) has selected three projects — two short films and a podcast — for a total of more than $160,000 in funding for vaccine equity works targeting vaccine hesitancy in Michigan and North Carolina. The projects are scheduled for completion this fall in time for expected spikes in COVID and flu cases.

Michigan-based filmmakers Eden Sadolboro and Toni Cunningham, of Reel Clever Films LLC, were awarded $60,000, for WELL, a short film and community engagement campaign that depicts the story of one Black American family across 50 years as they fight to stay healthy amidst three different crises: the Tuskegee experiment, the Flint water crisis and now COVID-19; Los Angeles-based filmmaker William D. Caballero, who was raised in Fayetteville, North Carolina, was awarded $60,000 for A Little off the Top: Vaxxed Up!, an animated digital short that combines elements of narrative and documentary to tell the story of a group of Black and Latino barbers who offer words of encouragement to two vaccine-skeptical teenage customers; The film is the second webisode in a series, which is also funded by Black Public Media. Antonio Alanis, a Mexican-American artist from Durham, North Carolina, was awarded $40,880 for

Me vacuno porque… (I got vaccinated because…), a podcast series for vaccine equity in North Carolina’s Spanish-speaking Latinx community.

The winners were among the creatives who submitted proposals after attending BPM’s March 2023 Black Media Story Summit - Michigan and North Carolina. BPM’s story summits bring together creatives, film and television industry executives, thought leaders, community stakeholders, and others to explore innovative approaches to media story development on critical issues facing Black people across the U.S. Past summits have covered such issues as mass incarceration, environmental justice, health and immigration.

BPM embarked on a three-year partnership with the National Network to Innovate for COVID-19 and Adult Vaccine Equity (NNICE) in the fall of 2021 to facilitate the creation of media stories that help boost vaccination rates within Black communities. The NNICE is funded by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) as part of the National Partnering for Vaccine Equity Initiative. BPM was engaged through NNICE’s grantee, Michigan State University, to host virtual Black Media Story Summits on the topic of vaccine equity and award pro-

duction grants to media makers who submit the most compelling production proposals. The Black Media Story Summit - Michigan and North Carolina was the second vaccine equity summit hosted by BPM. The first one in Baltimore led to BPM awarding grants to two filmmaking teams for their short-form content, Covid Conversations and Baltimore Speaks.

“What began as an effort to combat hesitancy against the COVID-19 vaccine has helped us realize that more education about vaccination against the flu and other illnesses is needed as well,” said Qiona Woffard, special programs manager of Black Public Media. “We are thrilled to continue our partnership with NNICE as we work to amplify the voices of local artists who are working to bring positive change and awareness of the importance of vaccinations of all types to our communities.”

Black Public Media is a Harlem-based national media arts nonprofit dedicated to creating and producing media content about the Black experience.

For more information on Black Public Media, visit blackpublicmedia.org, and follow the organization on social media at @ blackpublicmedia on Instagram and Facebook and @BLKPublicMedia on Twitter.

Jackie Jackson Kilwins Chicago

Three projects addressing vaccine hesitancy in Michigan and North Carolina are planned in time for the fall

Photos by L.M. Warbington Photography

Customer Privacy of Food App Users Threatened by Uber Founder-backed Group

BY HAZEL TRICE EDNEY

(TriceEdneyWire.com)

- The pursuit of political capital typically begins in earnest—legislators act on an idea they believe w ill improve the quality of life for their constituents. However, making laws is rapidly inundated with personal ideals, unnecessary opinions, and intrusions of well-heeled outside interests working only to benefit their bottom line.

This is especially true as new technologies revolutionize marketplaces. Yet, many often forget that while guidelines are necessary to navigating uncharted economic waters, lawmakers should only proceed with only full awareness of potential negative consequences that could disproportionately impact Black people and other communities of color.

Such is the case with recent legislative initiatives in a handful of states and cities around the country, the most recent being Miami-Dade County in Florida. Targeting new, app-based platforms offering accessible food options and secondary income streams for hundreds of thousands of Americans, these political proposals would require these platforms to collect and share private personal account information—putting all users’ data at risk.

The initiatives would require companies like Grubhub and DoorDash to share “contact information” with restaurants, grocery stores, and convenience stores for each transaction on the app. While the details of what constitutes “contact information” isn’t always specified, it likely includes delivery addresses, phone numbers, and emails--at a minimum. The idea is to effectively require platforms to disclose commissions and payments received by partner restaurants and third-party app employees.

The data-sharing requirements undermine prevailing trends in privacy law that place more control over personal information in the hands of the individual. Privacy laws generally provide individuals with the right to know what information businesses store, control when it is disclosed or sold, and ask that it be deleted. In contrast to those rights, these bills mandate the disclosure of personal information to private businesses regard -

less of a customer’s preference, and fails to even provide an opt-out to allow the customer to exercise control over how their information is shared. In essence, it compels companies to disclose information they would not otherwise share.

This Miami-Dade effort is a carbon copy of legislation being pushed in other states, such as Georgia, by the Digital Restaurant Association (DRA)—an organization with close ties to Travis Kalanick. Kalanick is the founder of Uber, who was ousted after his tenure was plagued by a series of privacy scandals, discrimination complaints, and allegations of sexual misconduct.

Kalanick’s proclivity to harvest sensitive information about individuals was well documented. In 2017, the New York Times reported that Uber employees were using an app called Greyball to operate in places where service was deemed illegal—essentially sidestepping the authorities and the law. Kalanick regularly abused Apple’s privacy rules—”fingerprinting” users to identify their accounts and “geofencing” locations to digitally identify reviewers of Uber’s software. In 2014, when a woman was raped by an Uber driver, Kalanick’s executives met with Delhi police and obtained the accuser’s medical records—a clear violation of privacy law. Recently, Kalanick was sued in 2021 for paying female and racial minority employees lower salaries and compensation than their male or white counterparts.

In the aftermath of his termination, faced with a lack of power and access, Kalanick has set his sights on the downfall of third party delivery platforms through a illegiti -

mate “astroturf” groups. The Digital Restaurant Association purports to “challenge fees and gain access to consumer data.” The group was formed in 2022 by Tusk Holdings, a lobbying firm employed by none other than Kalanick’s company City Storage Systems.

Kalanick also has a significant

conflict of interest. Cloud Kitchens, a startup founded by Kalanick would benefit dramatically from the proposed Miami Dade law. Cloud Kitchens, and Otterits food app, are competing with the other apps for market share.

Now, DRA is advocating for regional privacy legislation fundamentally at odds with consumer protections on behalf of a man with a documented history of storing data illegally, stripped of the power to do so.

Any forthcoming proposals must safeguard users—especially those most vulnerable—rather than put their data at risk. Black and Hispanic individuals are most likely to take up gigwork, compromising over half of workers in the industry. Nearly one-third of Hispanic adults have earned income through the gig economy, while over a quarter of African-American adults have earned money through these platforms. In Miami-Dade county, itself, nearly 83 percent of residents identify as either Hispanic or Black.

This ill-advised efforts would only further harm these communities.

* Best Colleges Online.

A proposed bill would require companies like Grubhub to share “contact information” with restaurants, grocery stores, and convenience stores for each transaction on the app.

CHATHAM & SOUTH END ONLY

Continued From Previous Page

ILCS 605/18.5(g-1). IF YOU ARE THE MORTGAGOR (HOMEOWNER), YOU HAVE THE RIGHT TO REMAIN IN POSSESSION FOR 30 DAYS AFTER ENTRY OF AN ORDER OF POSSESSION, IN ACCORDANCE WITH SECTION 15-1701(C) OF THE ILLINOIS MORTGAGE FORECLOSURE LAW. You will need a photo identification issued by a government agency (driver's license, passport, etc.) in order to gain entry into our building and the foreclosure sale room in Cook County and the same identification for sales held at other county venues where The Judicial Sales Corporation conducts foreclosure sales. For information, examine the court file, CODILIS & ASSOCIATES, P.C. Plaintiff's Attorneys, 15W030 NORTH FRONTAGE ROAD, SUITE 100, BURR RIDGE, IL, 60527 (630) 794-9876 THE JUDICIAL SALES CORPORATION One South Wacker Drive, 24th Floor, Chicago, IL 60606-4650 (312)

236-SALE You can also visit The Judicial Sales Corporation at www.tjsc.com for a 7 day status report of pending sales. CODILIS & ASSOCIATES, P.C. 15W030 NORTH FRONTAGE ROAD, SUITE 100 BURR RIDGE IL, 60527 630-794-5300

E-Mail: pleadings@il.csleg Attorney File No. 1422-04264 Attorney ARDC No. 00468002 Attorney Code. 21762 Case Number: 2022 CH 06082

TJSC#: 43-2253 NOTE: Pursuant to the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act, you are advised that Plaintiff's attorney is deemed to be a debt collector attempting to collect a debt and any information obtained will be used for that purpose. Case # 2022 CH 06082 I3225068

AC 7-26-203

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

DIVISION CitiMortgage, Inc. Plaintiff, vs. Lasylvia Seals, AKA Lasylvia Marie Seals, AKA Lasylvia M. Seals; Illinois Housing Development Authority; Unknown Owners and Non-Record Claimants

Defendants, 19 CH 11966 NOTICE OF SALE

PUBLIC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered in the above entitled cause Intercounty Judicial Sales Corporation will on Monday, August 28, 2023 at the hour of 11 a.m. in their office at 120 West Madison Street, Suite 718A, Chicago, Illinois, sell at public auction to the highest bidder for cash, as set forth below, the following described mortgaged real estate: P.I.N. 20-10-213029-0000. Commonly known as 4820 SOUTH EVANS AVENUE, CHICAGO, IL 60615. The mortgaged real estate is improved with a single family residence. If the subject mortgaged real estate is a unit of a common interest community, the purchaser of the unit other than a mortgagee shall pay the assessments required by subsection (g-1) of Section 18.5 of the Condominium Property Act. Sale terms: 10% down by certified funds, balance, by certified funds, within 24 hours. No refunds. The property will NOT be open for inspection. For information call Sales Department at Plaintiff's Attorney, Manley Deas Kochalski, LLC, One East Wacker Drive, Chicago, Illinois 60601. (614) 2205611. 19-034675 ADC F2 INTERCOUNTY JUDICIAL SALES CORPORATION intercountyjudicialsales.com I3225194

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EDUCATION

Tips to Get Your Student Prepped for College Entrance Exams

(StatePoint) Is the SAT or ACT on the horizon for your high schooler? A lot of emphasis is placed on college entrance exams, and your child may be anxious about their scores. To adequately prepare for the SAT or ACT, consider these tips:

• Practice, practice, practice: Encourage your student to take free online practice tests early and often. Not only is this an effective way to get familiar with the types of questions that will be on the test, it can give your child a sense of where they stand currently and help them identify areas where they may need some extra review. It’s helpful to simulate test day as much as possible. Have them take the practice test in a quiet place and time each portion of the test accurately.

• Have the right STEM tools: Acing the math portion is easier when you fully understand the principles behind the test questions. Fortunately, you can affordably equip your student with tools that facilitate that understanding.

Casio, dedicated to making STEM education more engaging, has developed the fx-CG50, a graphing calculator in the brand’s PRIZM lineup that offers a color LCD with a full textbookstyle display. Jam-packed with features that enable students to solve the most challenging equations, it offers the ability to easily draw three dimensional graphs such as planes, cylinders and spheres, and view them from various angles in order to better analyze their shape.

Plus, a cross-section option and special zoom function can be used for greater analysis.

• Build vocabulary: An expansive vocabulary is not just useful in the real world, it can greatly improve a student’s chances of success in the English, reading and writing sections of the exam. Getting familiar with some of the more frequently used words on the test is important. However, it’s best to break up the studying into chunks. Select a few words to master each day with flash cards. Hopefully, students will start to see etymological patterns that will help them make educated guesses when they don’t know a word.

• Take a break: It’s tempting to assume a last-minute study session the evening before the exam is going to make or break their performance, but a mental breather is actually a better use of time. Urge your child to get a good night’s sleep not just the night before the test, but that entire week. Pre-test jitters may lead to insomnia, but having a solid foundation of rest will help ensure your student is alert on test day. The morning of the test, encourage them to eat a healthy, filling breakfast and do activities that will warm up their brain, such as reading a book or solving a crossword puzzle.

Sufficient preparation and great study tools can alleviate college entrance exam anxieties so that your student walks into their testing center with confidence.

Tips for Parents and Kids to Stay Organized This Back-to-School Season

and more.

Planning and Scheduling

With the back-to-school season comes a flurry of planning and scheduling -- from after-school activities to field trips. Parents and kids alike can stay on top of all the last-minute changes with a desk calendar and an erasable pen. Pilot’s FriXion line of erasable pens and markers write smooth and erase clean, so you can edit plans as often as they change. It’s much easier to remember tasks and events when you’ve recorded the details in a central location, so start a habit of entering all activities into your calendar as soon as they’re planned. The smooth gel ink and precise point of the FriXion Synergy Clicker is great for detailed planning, while FriXion Fineliner brings colorful, mistake-free writing to notes and calendars.

Lockers, Backpacks and Desks

If you’re smudge-prone, use quick-dry ink for effortlessly clean lines. When it’s time to study, this will make reading your notes a lot easier. Pilot’s Precise Rolling Ball, available in capped and retractable styles, features a precision tip -great for organized notes and homework. For more back-to-school inspiration and tips, visit powertothepen.com.

Staying organized is easier said than done for families and students. However, relying on tools meant for the task at hand, whether that’s note-taking or event scheduling, can make it much simpler.

(StatePoint) The start of a new school year carries with it so much potential, particularly when students -- and their parents -- stay organized. Amid the back-to-school chaos, use these tips and gear recommendations to help keep everyone on track, whether they are at school, at home or on-the-go:

Notes and Big Ideas

Color-coded notebooks and binders, along with labeled dividers, can help you keep your coursework straight and your note-taking organized. Take your color-coding a step further by extending the concept to the tools you write with. Pilot Pen’s G2 gel pen is a go-to for busy students and parents with its smooth, long-lasting gel ink that’s able to keep up with busy schedules. Science has shown that writing a to-do list with an appealing color can lead to greater productivity. Inspired by color trends and color psychology, the G2 Harmony Collection colors were developed to promote balance, relaxation and hope, helping students get more done, stay positive and achieve their highest potential this school year. G2 is available in four point sizes and over 35 colors, so it’s ideal for note-taking, writing down big ideas, goal-setting

Use organizational tools anywhere school supplies are stored, such as lockers, backpacks and home study areas. Simple shelving and magnetic door organizers can maximize storage potential in any locker, whereas a backpack with multiple pockets allows you to arrange items by subject. Periodically empty your backpack completely; you may be surprised by the loose papers you find at the bottom. Use the opportunity to re-order items as-needed and to wipe down the bag’s interior. Parents and kids should keep clutter to a minimum in home workspaces with filing systems and supply trays. This will help prevent important papers and other items from going missing and improve productivity.

Down to the Details

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

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