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C WEEK OF JANUARY 24, 2024

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5 Tips to Help Improve your Credit Score in 2024

P4 FREE | VOL 43 | ISSUE 10

REPRESENTATIVE DEBBIE MEYERS-MARTIN

ADVOCATES FOR CONSUMERS

Debbie Meyers-Martin represent the 38th District in the Illinois Legislature as a State Representative.

There are 109,000 people in the District, which encompasses nine municipalities: Matteson, Country Club Hills, Hazel Crest, Oak Forest, Tinley Park, Frankfort, Mokena, Olympia Fields and Richton Park.

P2 Illinois State Representative Debbie Meyers-Martin represents the 38th District which includes nine municipalities in the Southland. PHOTO PROVIDED BY ANJENITA DAVIS.

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James Avery Artisan Jewelry Launches New Valentine’s Day Collection P5

Kwame Alexander’s The Crossover Wins Emmy® Award for Outstanding Young Teen Series P8

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NEWS

briefly ATTORNEY GENERAL RAOUL URGES DEA TO MOVE FORWARD WITH FEDERAL RESCHEDULING OF CANNABIS

Chicago — Attorney General Kwame Raoul, as part of a coalition of 12 state attorneys general, urged the U.S. Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA) to reschedule cannabis to Schedule III under the federal Controlled Substances Act in the interest of public health and safety.

“Illinois is one of several states that have established robust regulatory frameworks for legal cannabis sales,” Raoul said. “State-regulated cannabis industries protect consumers from the dangers of unregulated products and the illicit market. Rescheduling cannabis will remove obstacles for legitimate businesses and allow them to better collaborate with law enforcement and regulators.”

In their letter to DEA Administrator Anne Milgram, Raoul and the coalition of attorneys general explain that rescheduling cannabis from Schedule I to Schedule III will allow the state-regulated cannabis industry to continue to set the standard for legal products. These businesses would be able to take ordinary tax deductions to expand their investments and focus on public health and safety in collaboration with law enforcement efforts. This policy change would also increase the ability to research cannabis to determine the physical and mental impacts of cannabis use, particularly among youth.

Joining Raoul in submitting the letter are the attorneys general from California, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Maryland, Massachusetts, New Jersey, Nevada, Pennsylvania, Oregon and Rhode Island.

THE OBAMA FOUNDATION INVITES CHANGEMAKERS TO APPLY FOR ITS GLOBAL LEADERS PROGRAM

The Leaders Program is the signature leadership program of the Obama Foundation, supporting emerging leaders in Africa, Asia-Pacific, Europe, and the United States CHICAGO – The Obama Foundation opened applications for its six-month, values-based leadership development program that connects leaders between 24 and 45 years old across regions in Africa, Asia-Pacific, Europe, and the United States.

Since 2018, the Obama Foundation Leaders program has engaged nearly 1,000 emerging leaders worldwide, inspiring, empowering, and connecting them to change the world. Participants, recognized as “Obama Leaders,” learn practical skills and tools to lead through complex challenges, paving the way for them to make systems-level changes in their communities.

The program will facilitate weekly sessions in regional cohorts, and throughout the program, participants will have the opportunity to engage with President Obama, leadership coaches, subject matter experts, and each other to deepen their leadership practice. The core curriculum, adapted for each region, includes sessions covering values-based leadership, relationship cultivation, and systemic engagement.

“At a time of great anxiety and accelerating change around the world, what gives me hope is the promise of the next generation of leaders,” said Valerie Jarrett, Obama Foundation CEO. “We’re excited to open applications to four new regional cohorts of Obama Leaders. Our mission is to inspire, empower, and connect them to change their world.”

The application for the 2024-2025 Obama Foundation Leaders program can be found here.

More information, including eligibility requirements and frequently asked questions can be found here.

Applications are open until Friday, February 9, 2024 at 12 PM US CT. For announcements introducing the new cohorts in Africa, Asia-Pacific, Europe, and the United States this summer, follow the Obama Foundation on Facebook, Threads, and Instagram.

C Representative Debbie MeyersMartin Advocates For Consumers C

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Continued from page 1 have been admonished by the Department of Professional and Financial Regulation. It will help consumers stay away from those companies.

She was sworn-in as a State Representative in 2019 and priMeyers-Martin is working on legislation to provide manor to that, she was the Mayor of Olympia Fields for seven years, dates and guidelines for online banking to be regulated and and a trustee of Olympia Fields for 10 years. licensed. She said, currently, they are not and there are oppor“I am just very honored and privileged to have the opportunities for people to be taken advantage of. She is working with tunity to represent people that live in my District as well as the the Chicago Community Trust on that legislation.

State of Illinois,” she said.

“It’s very important that companies are accountable. I’ve The Illinois Legislative Session began on Tuesday, Jan. 16th. said many times, you cannot legisMeyers Martin is trying to carry late integrity, but you certainly can a few bills this session. She is “I’m extremely passionate about the mandate guidelines and rules for excited about working with the companies to be better and to be Southland, not only my District, but South Suburban Small Business more accessible to residents, to the entire South Suburban area. With Advocacy Group to create a tax their customers,” she said. that, I have been very diligent to look at credit for small businesses. She Meyers-Martin added that also is working with a nursing legislation and to bring resources back to the it is important that in the State organization to amend the nurses community, so we can improve the quality of of Illinois, companies know they practice act to make patients life,” she said. will be held accountable to their safer, in terms of who distributes business practices and hold them their medication. Legislation to their best practices. She said for the South Suburban Airport there is a lot of work to be done, but it is exciting to have that passed last year in order to create a process for procurement for opportunity. the airport. This year, Meyers-Martin will work on legislation Meyers-Martin is the liaison to the African American that will make sure the Department of Transportation does the Mayors in the State of Illinois. It gives her the opportunity to hear work it was mandated to do for the next six months. those Mayors’ concerns. She has recently worked with Mayors in Meyers-Martin is working on the Underground Railroad Harvey and Robbins on some of their immediate concerns. MeyTask Force. She is the House Chair for the Task Force, working with the Illinois Office of Tourism and the Department of Natural ers Martin is up for re-election. During her time, she has made it a priority to ensure constituents knew she was their representaResources to provide connectivity to all of the Underground Railroad sites in the State of Illinois. It was discovered that Sauk Trail tive and were aware of how to get resources and services within her office. was a pathway to Canada on the Underground Railroad.

“I’m extremely passionate about the Southland, not only my Meyers-Martin is the Chairwoman of the Consumer ProDistrict, but the entire South Suburban area. With that, I have tection committee. In that capacity, she has heard testimony been very diligent to look at legislation and to bring resources from people who have been affected by bad practices from some back to the community, so we can improve the quality of life,” she credit repair companies. The goal is to make sure the guidelines said. are more stringent to protect consumers. Last year, there was a For more information about State Representative Meytow truck driver’s legislation, which enables the Illinois Commerce Commission to publish the names of tow companies who ers-Martin, visit www.repdebbiemeyersmartin.com.

BY TIA CAROL JONES

Giannoulias to Illinois Drivers: Ditch the DMV Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias told Illinois motorists today to stay away from the DMV. That’s because Illinoisans can now obtain more DMV services and complete more transactions online. In addition, Giannoulias unveiled a series of new measures aimed at reducing wait times if a DMV visit is required.

“Don’t come to the DMV, skip the trip!” Giannoulias said.

“The truth is that most people no longer need to even come to a DMV because the services they need are available with just a few clicks. Our efforts to modernize the office and create efficiencies have led to a ‘Do-it-Online, Skip-the-Line’ approach, which saves Illinoisans time and headaches.”

Giannoulias noted that 2.25 million Illinoisans will need their driver’s license or state ID renewed in 2024. Of those, more than 1 million, or nearly half, have the ability to renew online.

In 2023, there were just over 1 million Illinois drivers who were part of the state’s “safe driver” program (those with clean driving records without a moving violation) that had the option of renewing without having to visit a DMV. Of those safe drivers, approximately 400,000 renewed online, 60,000 renewed by mail and 30,000 renewed over the phone, but nearly 560,000, more than 50%, visited a DMV unnecessarily.

The Secretary of State’s office has made design changes to its website, www.ilsos.gov, to make all available online services more accessible to all customers.

The Skip-the-Line program, which launched last September, has accommodated more than 800,000 Illinoisans by appointment, resulting in little to no wait times upon arrival at DMVs. New Features: Expanding Eligibility for Online Driver’s License and State

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ID Renewal To determine if you qualify to renew online, www.ilsos.gov has a new feature that determines a driver or resident’s eligibility for online renewal in real-time after entering their driver’s license or state ID number, Social Security number and date of birth. If a visit is required, the system will automatically direct customers to the appropriate appointment type.

In addition, eligibility for online renewals has been expanded to include customers who: 1) Are ages 75 to 78 2) Have made an online address change to their driver’s license or state ID Launching Appointment Portal By utilizing the appointment portal available at www.ilsos. gov, customers will now be guided to the correct service and appointment type they require or qualify for. Once they determine which service they wish to obtain, customers are routed to the appropriate appointment type or online service.

Implementing Text Message Notification for Appointments After booking an appointment online, customers will now receive text notifications to remind them of their upcoming appointment.

Customers will receive a reminder notification 24 hours before their appointment. They will be instructed to respond “1” to confirm their appointment or “2” to cancel their appointment. If the appointment is cancelled, the free slot will be made available to other customers.

Establishing a Dedicated Phone Help Line to Assist with Online Service Access Anyone encountering any difficulty accessing online

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NEWS

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Gov. Pritzker Announces $14.9M in Federal Funding for Illinois’ Community Charging Program Illinois wins competitive US Department of Transportation grant to expand electric vehicle charging CHICAGO — Governor JB Pritzker announced that Illinois secured 14.9M in competitive federal grant funding from the US Department of Transportation’s FY22-FY23 Charging and Fueling Infrastructure (CFI) Discretionary Grant Program. The Illinois Finance Authority (IFA), in its role as the Illinois Climate Bank, was chosen to receive the $14.9M to support the expansion of electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure in Illinois.

“As Illinois moves toward a clean energy future, it is imperative that no communities are left behind,” said Governor JB Pritzker. “This investment from our partners at the federal level will ensure Illinois has the resources to make electric vehicles accessible to all our residents.

With the incredible work from the Illinois Finance Authority, regional partners,

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SUBURBAN TIMES WEEKLY Bloom Township, Chicago Heights, Flossmoor, Ford Heights, Glenwood, Homewood, Lansing ,Lynwood, Olympia Fileds, Park Forest, Sauk Village, South Chicago and Steger Citizen Newspaper Group Inc., (CNGII), Publisher of the ChathamSoutheast, South End, Chicago Weekend, South Suburban and Hyde Park Citizen and Citizen Suburban Times Weekly. Our weekly publications are published on Wednesday’s (publishing 52 issues annually). Written permission is required to reproduce contents in whole or in part from the publisher. Citizen Newspaper Group, Inc. does not assume the responsibility for nor are we able to return unsolicited materials, therefore they become property of the newspaper and can or will be discarded or used at the newspapers disgratation. Deadlines for advertising is every Friday at noon. Deadlines for press releases are Thursdays at 10 am prior to the next week’s edition. Please send press release information to: editorial@citizennewspapergroup.com. For more information on subscriptions or advertising, call us at (773) 7831251 or fax (872) 208-8793. Our offices are located at 8741 South Greenwood Suite# 107, Chicago, Illinois 60619.

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and local leadership, I have no doubt the Community Charging Program will make a positive impact statewide.”

The proposed project, “The State of Illinois Community Charging Program,” aims to advance community-based transportation efforts across Illinois and prioritize equity in the clean energy movement. The statewide initiative is a joint effort between the Illinois Climate Bank as well as local and regional partners, serving 273 project sites (144 of which are located in or in close proximity to disadvantaged communities). The funds will support construction of 845 Level 2 EV Charging stations, and 36 DC Fast Charge stations.

Of the total $18.7M project investment, 43% will be allocated for disadvantaged community projects.

63% will be designated to dense urban communities with a high percentage of multi-family housing, as well as rural communities and small towns.

The new funding for EV charging infrastructure bolsters the State of Illinois’ previous efforts towards a clean energy future. Considerable progress under the Pritzker Administration includes the 2021 signing of the Climate & Equitable Jobs Act (CEJA), which places the state on a path to 100% clean energy by 2045 and 1 million electric vehicles on the roads by 2030.

Additionally, in the past year alone, the Pritzker Administration launched $10M in funding for the Climate Works Pre-Apprenticeship Program, allocated $6M for the Energy Transition Barrier Reduction Program, and partnered with numerous EV manufacturers to open Illinois factory sites and ensure career pathways in EV production.

“Governor Pritzker’s nation-leading CEJA legislation was the competitive advantage for this CFI award,” said Chris Meister, Executive Director of Illinois Finance Authority/Climate Bank. “CEJA prioritizes (1) measurable progress on climate; (2) authentic community voices through Justice40; and (3) partnerships across regions and organizations. In awarding CFI to Illinois, the United States Department of Transportation has demonstrated that the federal govern-

ment is aligned with Illinois goals under CEJA.” “By expanding access to electric vehicle chargers, we are weaving a network that connects urban and rural areas alike, ensuring that every community, regardless of its geographical or socioeconomic standing, has the tools to embrace the electric vehicle revolution,” said U.S. Senator Dick Durbin (D-IL). “This investment is a key step in breaking down barriers to entry for disadvantaged communities, offering them a ticket to the future of transportation.”

“Expanding access to reliable charging stations for electric vehicles that help lower fuel costs and reduce emissions across our state is a crucial infrastructure investment,” said U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL). “I’m glad that this funding will prioritize equity by helping make EV charging sites more accessible to all Illinoisans—no matter if they live in an urban area or a rural community.”

“It has been my great pleasure to work with Governor JB Pritzker and the Illinois Finance Authority to support the state of Illinois Community Charging Program,” said U.S. Representative Danny K. Davis (D-IL). “I supported the federal funding for this program that will accelerate electrification with a focus on equitable access so that communities like mine can benefit from clean energy. I am proud that the State is receiving a nearly $15 million grant from the U.S. Department of Transportation. Congratulations, Mr. Governor, and congratulations to the citizens of Illinois.”

“I am thrilled to welcome nearly $15M from the USDOT CFI Community program to Illinois to address pressing need for accessible EV charging infrastructure,” said U.S. Representative Robin Kelly (D-IL). “This initiative represents the Biden-Harris Administration’s steadfast dedication to ensuring that the benefits of our electrification efforts reach every corner of Illinois. This partnership exemplifies our state’s ambitious climate goals while fostering cooperation and coordination among local and regional partners. Today, we can celebrate this step towards a cleaner, more sustainable future for Illinois.”

Giannoulias...Continued From page 2 services can now call a dedicated phone line, 800-252-8980, and staff will provide them with assistance making appointments and answer any questions about requirements or eligibility. Specific options are built into the call-handling system for teen and senior drivers.

Expanding DMV facilities for Seniors and Behind-the-Wheel Tests Since the launch of the Skip-theLine program in September, the office has opened a total of four “Senior Only” DMV Centers and four Road Testing Centers.

The “Senior Only” DMV Centers, which are designed specifically for the needs of seniors, provide walk-in service without the need for an appointment.

The centers in Bridgeview, Calumet Park, Evanston and Westchester and have served 21,000 seniors since Sept. 1.

The new Road Testing Centers are located in Addison, Lockport, Naperville, and on Elston Avenue in Chicago. These dedicated testing centers will free up appointments at other DMV facilities to those who wish to conduct business that does not require a road test.

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POLITICAL AFFAIRS

CORRECTIONAL FACILITIES TO CRACK DOWN ON INDECENT EXPOSURE THANKS TO SENATOR WILLIE PRESTON Taking a step forward to ensure the safety and well-being of employees and incarcerated individuals, State Senator Willie Preston’s law addressing indecent exposure in correctional facilities went into effect on Monday, Jan. 1st.

“We must ensure a safe and respectful environment for every individual held or employed in correctional facilities,” said Preston (D-Chicago).

“Indecent exposure within these facilities is a violation of human dignity and a blight on our justice system. Women, especially, are targets of this inappropriate behavior. Through this law, we will be able to address and eradicate these gender targeted incidents, fostering a secure environment for employees and individuals in the state’s care.”

This law amends the Criminal Code of 2012 to create the offense of “lewd sexual display in a penal institution,” making it a Class A misdemeanor for incarcerated individuals to expose themselves with the purpose or effect of intimidating, harassing or threatening someone.

Repeat offenders face more severe penalties, with subsequent violations being considered Class 4 felonies. The provisions will also allow for thorough review of annual reports provided by the Illinois Criminal Justice Information Authority in 2028.

Brought forth by the Cook County Sheriff’s Office, the new law mirrors penalties for public indecency but changes the penalties given the context and motivation of the crime. It excludes juvenile detention facilities, individuals under the age of 18 and those living with a behavioral health issue.

House Bill 1399 goes into effect Jan. 1, 2024.

STATE SENATOR MATTIE HUNTER’S NEW LAW PREVENTS UTILITY SHUTOFFS

As of January 1, 2024 residents will see expanded protections from utility disconnections on days of extreme heat, thanks to a new law from State Senator Mattie Hunter.

“For people who fall behind on their bills, having their utilities shut off on an extremely hot day can have dire consequences,” said Hunter (D-Chicago). “By recognizing the dangers of heat and the value in access to air conditioning and proper refrigeration, we are protecting some of our state’s most vulnerable.”

The Public Utilities Act — which prohibits utility shutoffs on days where the temperature is above 95 degrees Fahrenheit — will now include extreme heat events, factoring in humidity and the heat index. On days when the forecasted temperature is 90 degrees or above, or when the National Weather Service issues a heat watch, advisory or warning, residents’ utilities cannot be shut off, even if they are behind on paying their bills.

Older adults, young children and people with chronic medical conditions are at high risk of heat-related illness and death. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, more than 700 people in the U.S. die from extreme heat each year. When utilities are shut off, residents lose access to life-saving cooling methods, refrigeration for food and medicine and electricity to power essential devices.

“Illinois weather is unpredictable. This law will lead to greater safety on the hottest days, particularly during the summer months,” said Hunter.

House Bill 1541 goes into effect Jan. 1.

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BUSINESS

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South Suburban | Week of January 24, 2024

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5 Tips to Help Improve your Credit Score in 2024 SPONSORED CONTENT BY JPMORGAN CHASE

Establishing credit is one of the most important keys to achieving financial health and creating generational wealth. A good credit score shows you have a track record of borrowing money responsibly and is important to landlords, mortgage lenders, financial institutions and more. The higher your credit score, the lower your interest rates will be on credit cards and loans, helping you save money over time.

Building a credit history from scratch can feel challenging since you need credit to build credit. If you don’t have credit, you’re less likely to be approved for loans and credit cards, limiting your ability to make major purchases that create financial stability for yourself and your family. How can you build credit without having credit?

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First, what does it mean to build credit?

All consumers have a three-digit score between 300 and 850. You want your score to be as high as possible, as lenders look at credit scores to make loan and credit decisions.

A credit score consists of your payment history, available credit, total balances, the mix of credit type, length of credit history, and the frequency and amount of new credit you’re applying for.

If you don’t have a credit history or you’re rebuilding your credit, your credit score will likely be on the lower end. Here are a few simple steps, including some you may already be doing, that can help start the year off on the right foot and improve your score:

Become an authorized user or joint account holder. Ask a trusted family member or friend to be added to their credit card. You’ll get an extra card with your name on it, and activity from that card will be reflected on your credit report over time. Be sure this person has a good history of on-time payments and low credit utilization – if they have bad credit habits, it will reflect on your credit, too.

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Report rent or bill payments and pay on time. Ask a service provider, such as a landlord, to report payment activity to the credit bureaus.

Also remember to pay bills on time. Paying your utility bills, rent, credit cards and loans on time can demonstrate fiscal responsibility to lenders.

become part of your credit profile. Remember to try to pay off the balance each month to avoid raking up interest.

Find a co-signer. Apply for credit jointly with someone who already has an established credit history. Remember, the co-signer is putting their credit on the line for you, so keep up with your payments and don’t overspend.

These options can help you demonstrate your creditworthiness, and you may start seeing your score rise sooner than you might expect.

Open a bank account and consider a new-to-credit card: Although checking and savings accounts don’t factor into your credit score, lenders can review them to see how fiscally responsible you are. And in the case of Chase Freedom Rise, which is designed for new-to-credit customers, having a Chase checking account increases your likelihood for approval.

Resolve to build credit in 2024 It’s never too late to build -- or rebuild -- your credit. As you make your resolutions for the new year, put credit building near the top of your list. Not only will good credit help you have a happy new year in 2024, you’ll see your hard work pay off for many new years to come.

For more information visit chase.com/credit.

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Apply for a store or gas card. Retailers and businesses often approve applicants with little credit history for a card. Store cards usually carry a higher interest rate, but payments still

Bloomberg Expands Historically Black College and University (HBCU) Trading Challenge In Its Second Year NEW YORK, PRNewswire -- Bloomberg for Education and Bloomberg Human Resources have expanded the reach of this year’s Bloomberg and Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) Trading Challenge to new universities and shifted to evaluate participant investment performance against a developed market (DM) index.

The Bloomberg and HBCU Trading Challenge exercises the financial acumen of college participants through a virtual investment competition on the Bloomberg Terminal. Geared towards Black students in the US who are typically underrepresented in the finance industry, the challenge was created to help HBCU students build marketable skills and knowledge needed to compete for finance jobs and provide hands-on experience that they will use in their future careers.

This year, students invested $1 million virtual US dollars across companies in the DM index in a closed network, with the assistance of university faculty and assigned Bloomberg mentors. The winner was decided based on the trade performance of participants, benchmarked against real DM indices on the Bloomberg Terminal.

“The new focus on developed markets stocks builds on last year’s ESG-specific challenge to introduce another layer of difficulty and further replicate real world experiences,” said Emily Perrucci, Global Head of User Support at Bloomberg.

“Fund managers often must consider ESG factors as part of

managing a much larger, diverse portfolio. We want to ensure students have a well-rounded understanding of market indices to be best prepared for future careers in finance.”

Participating universities included Clark Atlanta University, Howard University, Hampton University, Morehouse College, Morgan State University, Spelman College and Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University (FAMU).

Jaeden Patterson, a Senior at FAMU was this year’s winner. “The advice I would give to future participants is to take advantage of your resources,” said Patterson. “The mentor that was provided through the challenge helped me navigate unfamiliar functionality on the Bloomberg Terminal. Additionally, I was able to take the Bloomberg ESG Certificate Course, which enabled me to identify ESG investment strategies and apply them to develop a profitable portfolio.”

Students who participated in this year’s challenge were invited to Bloomberg’s headquarters in New York City. There, top-performing students had the opportunity to present their trading strategy to a panel of experts who offered feedback and insights on the students’ experience. Students who participate in the challenge also receive direct access to Bloomberg recruiters who provide professional development support around interviewing and resume creation.

Bloomberg continues to build relationships with HBCUs and contribute to cultivating the success of its students. By providing additional resources, like the Bloomberg Terminal, University professors are able to further enrich their course-

work with the same tools that are used by financial professionals.

“Florida A&M University School of Business and Industry (SBI) has a long legacy of training students to be capable and well-prepared young business professionals.

Bloomberg plays a role in that training process,” said Dr. Inger M. Daniels-Hollar, Assistant Professor of Finance at FAMU. “Bloomberg access enables us to simulate for our students the experience of sitting on a real-life desk while they’re still in college -- much like a law student might argue in a mock courtroom before becoming a lawyer.”

Bloomberg for Education offers a suite of education technology products and services that immerse learners directly into the financial markets and provide research and analytics across multiple industries. Universities around the globe use Bloomberg to bring the real world of finance into the classroom, providing students with access to the same information platform used by leading decision makers in business, finance and government. For more information, visit: https://www.bloomberg.com/professional/product/ education/ Bloomberg is a global leader in business and financial information, delivering trusted data, news, and insights that bring transparency, efficiency, and fairness to markets. The company helps connect influential communities across the global financial ecosystem via reliable technology solutions that enable our customers to make more informed decisions and foster better collaboration. For more information, visit https://www.bloomberg.com/company or request a demo.

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South Suburban | Week of January 24, 2024

FASHION

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James Avery Artisan Jewelry Launches New Valentine’s Day Collection

KERRVILLE, Texas, PRNewswire -- James Avery Artisan Jewelry, a family-owned jewelry retailer based in Texas, is excited to announce the launch of the Valentine’s Day Collection. Whether you’re gifting to a sister, best friend, significant other or treating yourself, the new James Avery designs are a special way to express your feelings and create lasting moments.

“At James Avery, crafting reminders of memories and connections is at the core of all we do,” says James Avery CEO John McCullough. “The Valentine’s Day season is no exception. From delicate hearts to sweet affirmations, our jewelry is crafted to honor and celebrate love.”

The new designs feature earrings, rings, necklaces and many colorful styles with sparkling gemstones and hand enameling by our artisans in the Texas Hill Country. Additionally, as part of the launch, the Heart Gemstone, Enamel Connected Hearts and Furry Friends Collections are being expanded.

The Heart Gemstone Studs and the Wrapped in Love Gemstone Ring add sparkle in customer-favorite gemstones Blue Topaz, Amethyst, Garnet and Lab-Created White Sapphire. Add a pop of color with new additions to our Enamel Connected Hearts Collection—we’ve added bold and fun hoop earrings in light pink and multicolored enamel in

small and medium sizes.

“This Valentine’s Day, let your love shine through with the gifts you give or as a treat for yourself,” says Sarah Herr, Vice President of Merchandising and Design at James Avery. “Our designers were inspired by their family, friends and pastimes that bring them joy, and with this collection

speaks to the heart. To find your local James Avery retail store, nearest Von Maur or Dillard’s store, or to shop the newest designs online, visit JamesAvery.com.

James Avery is a vertically integrated, family-owned company located in the heart of the Texas Hill Country. We offer finely crafted jewelry designs for men and women in sterling silver, 14K and 18K gold, bronze and gemstones. James Avery jewelry is designed in the Texas Hill Country, with more than 90 percent of our pieces crafted in Kerrville, Comfort, Hondo and Corpus Christi, Texas using the finest materials sourced worldthey wanted to share wide. We are a multi-channel that beauty with our retailer with over 120 James customers.”

Avery stores in four states. Our From charms with jewelry is also available at JamesAvinspiring messages to colery.com, over 250 Dillard’s locations orful charms that brighten up and at Dillards.com and at 37 Von Maur anyone’s style, there are so locations and VonMaur.com. many ways to say, “I love Valentine’s Day Gifts from James Avery Artisan Jew- You can also find our designs at you.” The Love Will Save airport stores in Austin, Houston elry. PRNewsfoto/James Avery Artisan Jewelry the Day Heart Charm, the and Nashville, as well as select Mija Heart Charm and the Army and Air Force Exchange Shining Heart Charm are all unique gifts for someService (AAFES) locations. one who radiates love and beauty and for whom you Follow us @jamesavery on Facebook, Instagram hold dear. and LinkedIn, as well as @jamesaveryjewelry on TikEmbrace the season of love with jewelry that Tok for new releases, trends and behind the scenes.

bebe x CIARA

bebe Announces Collaboration with Ciara for Capsule Collection Fall’24 NEW YORK, PRNewswire accessories (hats, handbags, -- bebe is partnering with footwear, eyewear) and more. the Grammy Award-winning “Growing up the bebe singer/songwriter, entreprebrand was iconic! My vision neur, philanthropist, and as Creative Director is to mix fashionista Ciara to create my own personal style elethe bebe x Ciara capsule ments of girl next door with collection for Fall ‘24. Serving tomboy, glam, and edge with as Creative Director, Ciara a nod to the 90’s. I want this will blend her unique, tomcollection to allow women boy-chic style with bebe’s to style it their way and feel unapologetically seductive, confident on their terms,” ever evolving fashion for an says Ciara. innovative collection with a bebe is a brand that focus on self-expression. has always celebrated bold, Ciara will be the face sophisticated elegance and is of the campaign which will designed for the woman that launch throughout the US on wants to make a statement. social, out of home, and in The bebe customer knows print. It’s an opportunity for what she likes and seeks that Ciara to infuse her oft-impop of edge and glamour in itated, never-replicated her wardrobe. Partnering style into the collection and with style icon Ciara, is a showcase statement-making Top Left & Bottom Right: Ciara- Credit Courtesy of natural evolution for bebe, as Beauty Marks Entertainment, Top Right & Bottom she is widely recognized for looks. The collection will inLeft: bebe -Credit Lauren Loncar Photography her distinctive sense of style clude deliveries for both Fall and Holiday and will expand Holiday 2023 with just the right amount of across all bebe’s key cateeye-catching drama, while gories including dresses, denim, sportswear and out and about or on the stage.

“We are thrilled to welcome Ciara to the bebe family. Her unique and bold fashion sense makes her a perfect partner for the bebe brand, and we look forward to bringing her creative vision to life for our diverse, global audience,” says Joseph Gabbay, CEO, Bluestar Alliance.

Ralph Gindi, COO, Bluestar Alliance says, “Ciara is a true original whose style is a perfect reflection of what bebe is all about – sexy, bold confidence. The capsule will bring to life Ciara’s love of fashion and accessories. It will give our loyal customers a way to personalize their statement-making looks for fall and holiday in 2024.

We are in discussions for an exclusive launch with a select retailer.”

Founded in 1976, bebe is the go-to destination for chic, contemporary fashion. The brand evokes a mindset—an attitude, not an age. It’s a true original, always defining fashion’s next stride forward. The bebe brand remains true to its DNA offering bold, sexy and glamourous style for the ever-evolving fashion enthusiast. The collections bring a touch of glam to everyday style with the use of vibrant colors, pattern and texture mixes and attention to details including crystal embellishments, embroidery and more. bebe is all about bold statement making fashion that embraces self-expression, individuality, and creativity for a sensual and sophisticated lifestyle.

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6 | South Suburban | Week of January 24, 2024

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SOUTH SUBURBAN

Chicago poet and professor Diego Baez debuts YAGUARETE WHITE On February 20, 2024, acclaimed ChiMarch 28 at 7:00 pm: Women & Children cago poet Diego Báez launches his debut First Bookstore, 5233 N. Clark St. (in concollection, University of Arizona Press versation with author and Booklist Senior introduces Yaguareté White (University of Editor Donna Seaman) Arizona Press), in which English, Spanish, All events are free and open to the puband Guaraní encounter each other with lic. humor and insight through the elusive yet The son of a Paraguayan father and a potent figure of the jaguar. We’d love for you mother from Pennsylvania, Baéz grew up to feature Diego and his debut in conjunction in central Illinois as one of the only brown with its launch. kids on the block—but that didn’t keep him Diego Báez is a finalist for the Georgia from feeling like a gringo on family visits to Poetry Prize and a semifinalist for the Berk- Paraguay. Exploring this contradiction as it shire Prize for Poetry. A fellow at CantoMun- weaves through experiences of language, do, the Surge Institute, and the Poetry Foun- self, and place, Baéz revels in showing up the dation’s Incubator for Community-Engaged absurdities of empire and chafes at the limits Poets, Báez has served on the boards of the of patrimony, but he always reserves his National Book Critics Circle, the Internation- most trenchant irony for the gaze he turns on al David Foster Wallace Society, and Famihimself. lies Together Co-operative Nursery School.

Notably, this raucous collection also His poems, book reviews, and essays have wrestles with Guaraní, a state-recognized appeared in several online and print publiIndigenous language widely spoken in Paracations. A native of Bloomington/Normal, guay. Guaraní both structures and punctures Illinois, he lives in Chicago with his wife and the book, surfacing in a sequence of jokes daughter and teaches at the City Colleges. that double as poems, and introducing but He’s celebrating locally with three leaving unresolved ambient questions about events: local histories of militarism, masculine braFebruary 22 at 7pm: Harry S. Truman vado, and the outlook of the campos. Cutting College Theater, 4310 N. Racine Ave. (read- across borders of every kind, Baéz’s poems ing) attempt to reconcile the incomplete, contraFebruary 29 at 6:00 pm: Independence dictory, and inconsistent experiences of a Branch Library (meeting room), 4024 N. speaking self that resides between languagElston Ave. (reading) es, nations, and generations.

Giannoulias Awards Inaugural Illinois John Lewis Youth Leadership Award In partnership with the National Association of Secretaries of State (NASS), Illinois Secretary Alexi Giannoulias presented the first-ever Illinois John Lewis Youth Leadership Award to 23-year-old Dasha Pates in a ceremony earlier this month.

“I’m excited to partner with NASS to honor and commemorate the extraordinary impact of the late Congressman John Lewis here in Illinois by encouraging our youth to advocate for civil rights, democracy and equality,” Giannoulias said.

“Dasha is doing truly incredible “I’m excited to work, and it’s a pleasure to bepartner with NASS stow her with this honor.”

Pates, an Oswego native to honor and who graduated from Aurora commemorate University, was selected from the extraordinary a pool of over 30 candidates impact of the late for her work improving access to legal services at the Kane Congressman County Judicial Center. As a JusticeCorps Fellow, Dasha John Lewis here helps disenfranchised members in Illinois by of Kane County, including the encouraging unhoused, people with mental health concerns, people living our youth to in poverty and students. advocate for civil While serving as Presirights, democracy dent of the Aurora University Pre-Law Honor Society, Pates and equality,” created the organization’s first Giannoulias said. Women-in-Law Panel in response to concerns from female students that they lacked role models in the male-dominated legal profession.

A first-generation immigrant from the Philippines, Pates became an American citizen and seeks to honor and revive her heritage of advocacy for the downtrodden. She plans to apply for law school this year so she can even more effectively ensure all citizens and residents have equal access to the possibility of justice.

Giannoulias plans to accept nominations for the second annual Illinois John Lewis Youth Leadership Award in the fall.

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South Suburban | Week of January 24, 2024 | 7

SOUTH SUBURBAN

Interactive Unicorn World returning to Chicago in January the Mines plan to expand the footprint as CHICAGO– Unicorn World, an imUnicorn World travels to additional locations mersive, interactive and themed event for such as Milwaukee, Wisconsin; Minneapolis, all ages, will take place in Chicago on Jan. Minnesota; and Charlotte, North Carolina.

26-28 for the second year in a row. The “Every aspect of this event is created event, which includes a magical forest and animatronic unicorns, will take place at the with thoughtful care and intention, and we are always thinking about ways to make it Navy Pier. even more exciting for our guests,” co-foundThe family-friendly event, created by husband-wife duo Patrick and Lauren er Patrick Mines said. “The new activities Mines, is known for its themed activities offered this year will amplify the Unicorn such as an enchanted forest, arts and crafts World experience and delight people of all section, story time and colorful, life-sized, ages.” moving and neighing unicorns. This year Tickets, which are $40 per person and it will offer new interactive experiences, free for children under age 2, are being sold including balloon bubble houses, a wish online in advance and will not be available wall and the world’s largest unicorn vending for purchase at the event. To manage event machine. flow and crowd size, time slots must be re“Unicorn World proved to be a way served. For more information about tickets, for families and friends to connect in a fun time reservations and add-on experiences, and magical way, and this year we wanted visit theunicornworld.com. to give communities a more magical time Other experiences include unicorn through new experiences,” said Lauren bounce houses, rides, face painting and Mines, co-founder of Unicorn World, LLC. professional photos. For families with very “Our desire is to keep building an event that young children, a special section is available is not only fun, but also intended for families for babies and toddlers younger than 2 years to enjoy year after year together. Regardless old. of whether you’re returning for the event a Founded in 2022, Unicorn World, LLC, second time or if this is your first experience, is a Knoxville-based event company that you’ll walk away from the event feeling creates a vibrant, family-focused experience inspired.” through themed activities. Serving as a catThe event strolled its way through 21 alyst for creativity and inspiration, Unicorn cities in its first year, including Chicago, World, LLC, aims to connect individuals Miami and Atlanta, and recorded high atten- of all ages and offer community-centered dance due to its family-friendly atmosphere events. For more information, visit theuniand age-appropriate activities. This year, cornworld.com.

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CHICAGO CHILDREN’S MUSEUM BRINGS THE BIG TOP TO LIFE WITH ITS LATEST EXHIBIT CIRCUSVILLE OPENING JANUARY 25 such a vibrant and engaging experience CHICAGO, Ill. – Come one, come to the museum,” said Chicago Children’s all, step right up and have a ball! Chicago Museum President and CEO Jennifer Children’s Museum, 700 E. Grand Ave., Farrington. “The goal of this exhibit is is thrilled to announce the remounting to empower kids to express themselves of its circus-themed exhibit, Circusville however that may feel best to them. Pretend opening on Thursday, January 25 through play builds self-confidence and inspires September 7. Last featured more than a decade ago in 2012, Circusville will unleash conversation among families. We know imaginations as it places children and their Circusville will do just that and look forward families right into the magic of circus life. A to welcoming visitors to step into the center dynamic exhibit, Circusville invites a range ring or backstage.”

Chicago Children’s Museum uses the of visitor-determined experiences depending upon which entrance to the exhibit they circus setting to lay a foundation for children and families to engage in building narratives choose - one to the center ring, show and through play. With countless materials and concessions, while the other leads backa complete backdrop, Circusville encourages stage for a behind-the-scenes experience.

The exhibit will be open seven days a week: choice, perspective, and imagination for all.

The mission of Chicago Children’s 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Monday-Thursday and 10 Museum is to improve children’s lives by a.m.-5 p.m. Friday-Sunday, via general admission to the Museum. Admissions can creating a community where play and learning connect. CCM is a cultural instibe purchased online.

Pretend play in a rich environment tution dedicated to young children and provides children the opportunity to try the important adults in their lives. Playful out various personas as a means to explore experiences, including more than 15 intertheir own personalities. Circusville sets the active exhibits and daily programming, tap stage for children to choose to be the star into how kids from ages 0-10 years old learn of the show through dress-up or to practice and engage to develop the foundation for their hand at juggling and balancing on a a lifelong love of learning. Located at Navy tightrope. For another look into the whimsy Pier, Chicago’s number one attraction at 700 of circus life, they can choose to take on vital E. Grand Ave., CCM is the final stop for CTA roles including ticket taker, hot dog vendor buses #29, #65, #66 and #124. For more and more. information, please visit www.ChicagoChil“We are thrilled to be bringing back drensMuseum.org.

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Turn science into hits.

Build a speaker and a STEM Future Calling all high school students: celebrate Black History Month and join our hands-on STEM Lab program. Learn how to build a wireless speaker with the help of Black ComEd mentors and earn a $250 scholarship. You don’t have to be an expert to join— but you just might end up one by the time it’s over.

© Commonwealth Edison Company, 2024

Slots are limited.

Sign-up does not guarantee acceptance.

For high school students only.

Application deadline: February 5.

Event date: Saturday, February 10 from 8am–4pm.

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ENTERTAINMENT

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South Suburban | Week of January 24, 2024

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Kwame Alexander’s The Crossover Wins Emmy® Award for Outstanding Young Teen Series

Disney+ Series Based on BestSelling, Award-Winning Novel

by Executive Producer and Showrunner Kwame Alexander LOS ANGELES, PRNewswire -The Crossover Disney+ series, based on the Newbery-Medal winning novel by #1 New York Times bestselling author Kwame Alexander, won the Emmy® Award for Outstanding Young Teen Series. The National Academy of Television Arts & Sciences (NATAS) announced the winners of the 2nd Annual Children’s & Family Emmy Awards on Sunday, December 17, 2023, during ceremonies held at the historic Westin Photo courtesy of the Children’s & Family Emmy Awards, Photo courtesy of the Children’s & Family Emmy Awards, National Academy of Bonaventure Hotel in downtown Los National Academy of Television Arts & Sciences Television Arts & Sciences Angeles and aired live on The Emmys® apps.

In addition to Alexander, the Executive Producer the award “This wasn’t a dream come true, team includes Maverick Carter, Daveed Diggs, Kimon behalf of the producers, cast, and crew. because it was never even a dream. I’ve just always berly Ann Harrison, Todd Harthan, Jamal HenderThe Crossover, which premiered on Disney+ in wanted to write books that inspired and entertained, April 2023, was produced in partnership with LeBron son, LeBron James, Damani Johnson, Jay Marcus, and to do the same in Television. Our team put heart Erin O’Malley, Robert Prinz, Bob Teitel, George TillJames’ SpringHill Company and Big Sea Entertainand soul into this show, and this just feels real good,” man, Jr., and Lezlie Wills, along with Co-Executive ment, Kwame Alexander’s production company that said Alexander, who served as Executive Producer, Producer Valerie C. Woods, Supervising Producer Ali is dedicated to creating innovative, highly original Showrunner, and Writer on the series and accepted Kinney, and Producer Marsha L. Swinton. children’s and family entertainment.

MasterClass Announces First-of-a-Kind Class With Ava DuVernay on Reframing Your Thinking SAN FRANCISCO, Jan. 4, 2024 /PRNewswire/ every day.

-- MasterClass, the streaming platform where anyone “Collaborating with MasterClass to create a can learn from the world’s best, today announced that learning module unlike anything they’d done before award-winning filmmaker Ava DuVernay will teach a was truly thrilling,” DuVernay said. “My goal was to class on directing the life you want to lead. Exclumake the viewer feel embedded in the action, intensively for MasterClass, DuVernay will take tion and energy of directing and producing a members on the actual set and through feature film— with all of the discipline and the post-production process of her dedication that the endeavor requires. newest film, ORIGIN. Filmed over Only MasterClass as a platform a six-month period, the class could provide the kind of a teaching showcases her methods for experience that I wanted to share, identifying, developing and one that offers a bird’s-eye view executing a vision to direct the into the creative and philosophilife that you want. The class is cal process of filmmaking.” available now only on MasBeyond ORIGIN, DuVerterClass, where subscribers nay’s feature work includes have unlimited access to all the Academy Award–winning 200+ instructors with an annual historical drama SELMA; the membership.

Academy Award–nominated crimIn this class, DuVernay takes inal justice documentary 13TH; the MasterClass members on a journey Sundance Best Director Award win for of self-discovery, guiding them her micro-budgeted romance MIDthrough the art of reframing Ava DuVernay for MasterClass. Courtesy of DLE OF NOWHERE; and Disney’s A their mindset to unleash their WRINKLE IN TIME, which made her MasterClass full potential in everyday life. the highest-grossing Black woman The class provides an unprecdirector in American box office histoedented, behind-the-scenes look into the filmmaking ry. In 2019, her four-part television series, WHEN THEY process for ORIGIN, dropping members right into the SEE US, was honored with 16 Emmy nominations. Dumiddle and allowing them to follow DuVernay’s journey Vernay’s critically acclaimed TV series QUEEN SUGAR in making the film. She uses the filming of ORIGIN as a is the longest-running Black family drama series by a backdrop to teach critical skills for leaders of all types, Black woman creator in American television history. whether members lead a team, a family or are pursuing She amplifies films by people of color and women of all their first solo project. Members will learn how to find kinds through her nonprofit narrative change collective motivation, set their vision, build a strong team, lead ARRAY, which is a winner of the Peabody Institutional with empathy, keep people engaged and take action Award. The filmmaker sits on the Board of Governors of

the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, representing the directors branch. She is a vice president of the Directors Guild of America and an advisory board member of the American Film Institute. DuVernay has previously served on the juries of the Cannes Film Festival and Mumbai Film Festival.

MasterClass partnered with ARRAY’s Seat16 to bring the ORIGIN and MasterClass experiences to thousands of teens. Each $16 donation will give one young person in the U.S. a ticket to see ORIGIN and a free oneyear membership to MasterClass.

MasterClass is the streaming platform that provides the insights, tools and lived experiences of the world’s best so you can become your best. In as little as 10 minutes, you can gain new skills that can be applied immediately. With an annual membership, you get unlimited access to 200+ instructors and classes through flexible formats for any way you like to learn. Shift the way you see and experience the world through a wide range of subjects, including business and leadership, writing, cooking, acting, sports and more. Cook with Gordon Ramsay. Write with Shonda Rhimes. Get negotiation tactics from Chris Voss.

Learn how to navigate relationships with Esther Perel or make bold choices with Samuel L. Jackson. Original Series provides a new way to learn through quick, highly engaging episodic stories designed to change the way members see the world. With MasterClass at Work, companies can develop durable skills that transform employees into future-ready leaders through cinematic lessons and life-changing stories taught by the world’s best. Each MasterClass offering is available at home or on the go on mobile, tablet, desktop, Apple TV®, Android™TV, Amazon Fire TV and Roku® players and devices.

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South Suburban | Week of January 24, 2024

HEALTH

SOUTH SUBURBAN

AANP Spotlights

5 Critical Health Care Trends to Watch AUSTIN, Texas, PRNewswire -- The 2030, every baby boomer will be at least 65, nurse practitioner (NP) profession is looking with the oldest members closer to 85 – meanahead to a new year and new opportunities to ing 1 out of every 5 Americans will be of retireadvance access to high-quality health care for ment age and qualified to enroll in the govpatients. The American Association of Nurse ernment’s Medicare program. Approximately Practitioners® (AANP) has identified five criti40% of Medicare beneficiaries currently recal health trends that will impact the delivery ceive health care from NPs, the fastest-growof patient-centered health care in 2024 and ing Medicare provider group. Notwithstanding beyond. the care provided to this population, barriers “As health care continues to evolve, nurse still exist within the Medicare program that practitioners are at the forefront of change, prevent NPs from practicing to the full extent consistently adapting to meet the dynamic of their education and clinical training; federal needs of patients and their communities,” policy changes are needed to make our system said AANP President Stephen A. Ferrara, work more efficiently.

DNP. “Patients deserve access to high-quality Primary Care Providers are Screening health care nationfor Both Physical and wide, and NPs are Mental Health – NPs urging other health and other primary care care leaders and poliproviders are at the cymakers to prioritize forefront of patient policies that make care, screening for health care more effiboth physical and cient and effective by mental health probmaking 2024 the Year lems. Mental health of Patient-Centered concerns have inHealth Care.” creased sharply in the More Than 102 wake of the COVID-19 Million People Now pandemic, and nearly Live in Primary Care 169 million people live Shortage Areas – in areas where access According to the U.S. to treatment is limited Department of Health due to provider shortand Human Services ages. Given their focus (HHS), more than 102 Nurse practitioner speaks with patient in clinic. PRNews- on whole-patient care, foto/American Association of Nurse Practitioners. million Americans NPs understand the across the nation curimportant role mental rently lack adequate health plays in the access to primary care – a 3% jump from one overall well-being of their patients. year ago (99 million) – and these shortages Demand for NPs Continues to Grow, exist across urban, suburban and rural areas. as Does the Profession – NPs are in high NPs are ready to address this challenge, with demand by patients for their exceptional, nearly 90% clinically trained to deliver primawhole-patient care. America’s more than ry care. NPs represent 1 in 4 primary care pro385,000 licensed NPs conduct more than 1 viders in rural practices, with an even greater billion patient visits annually. The NP propercentage in the states that allow them to fession is trending to be the fastest-growing practice to the full extent of their education profession of the next decade, according to and clinical training. the most recent data from the U.S. Bureau of Wait Times for Health Care Appointments Labor Statistics, with the profession proare Growing – A national survey conducted jected to grow by nearly 45% by 2032. in 2023 found nearly 50% of patients polled The American Association of Nurse waited longer than one month — and 25% Practitioners® (AANP) is the largest profeswaited more than two months — for a health sional membership organization for nurse care appointment in the previous 12 months. practitioners (NPs) of all specialties. It More than 40% of those polled experienced a represents the interests of the more than ‘longer than reasonable’ wait for health care 385,000 licensed NPs in the U.S. AANP – an 8-percentage point jump from the year provides legislative leadership at the local, before. According to the survey, nearly half of state and national levels, advancing health those who experienced longer waits gave up policy; promoting excellence in practice, before getting the care they needed, ultimateeducation and research; and establishing ly going without care. This situation extends standards that best serve NPs’ patients across all major demographics, including age, and other health care consumers. As The gender and education, and geographic areas, Voice of the Nurse Practitioner®, AANP including rural, suburban and urban settings. represents the interests of NPs as providDemand for Senior Care Continues to ers of high-quality, cost-effective, comRise – As the U.S. population, including the prehensive, patient-centered health care. massive baby boom generation of 73 million, To locate an NP in your community, visit ages and requires more care, the health care npfinder.com. For more information about workforce must also grow to meet demand. By NPs, visit aanp.org.

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Virtual Autism Clinic ‘As You Are’ Expands to All 50 States SAN ANTONIO, PRNewswire -- The nation’s largest virtual autism clinic for kids, As You Are, announced today the expansion of services into its 50th state - making appointments available to families nationwide. On average, physicians at As You Are see patients in less than 17 days, compared to the national average wait time of 27 months. Offering services in all 50 states marks a major milestone for As You Are, now that their full-time physicians can provide high-quality care to children in every corner of the U.S., even if they live hours away from a traditional doctor’s office.

“Few things are as crucial as an early diagnosis, so we worked as fast as we could to create equitable access to care for all kids, regardless of location, and grew from 5 states to 50 states over the past year,” said Kayla Wagner, CEO of As You Are. “We created a tangible solution to a national crisis for every family in need.”

It is estimated that there are hundreds of thousands of children currently waiting for an autism evaluation.

Dr. Steve Hicks, Chief Medical Officer of As You Are, said, “I’m proud that As You Are is addressing a major healthcare barrier through timely autism evaluations. Our physicians provide families with an answer in weeks, not months or years.”

As You Are is a service line of Quadrant Biosciences Inc., a company whose mission is to enhance the well-being of children and families, with a focus on those facing developmental delays, including autism. Wagner partnered with Quadrant Biosciences CEO and Founder, Richard Uhlig, a passionate entrepreneur, to build As You Are, a game-changing solution accessible nationwide.

Uhlig said, “The demand for As You Are’s services is so overwhelming that we’re evaluating well over 1,000 new children every month - and that number continues to grow every day. I’m proud to be part of the team which is making such a positive impact on the lives of children and families across the country.”

Alyson Zawitz from Pennsylvania struggled to find an autism evaluation for her 9-year-old daughter, Roree. All three waitlists she put her daughter’s name on were longer than a year. After finding As You Are, her daughter was diagnosed with autism within a month.

“You feel like you’re up against the clock. Parents need to know there are options out there and not to give up,” Zawitz said. “That diagnosis is like a golden ticket.

It opens up so much for your child for things that help aid them to get through the day.”

Families can go directly to As You Are to schedule their first appointment with no referral needed.

As You Are is managed and operated by Quadrant Biosciences Inc. and its affiliates. Quadrant Biosciences Inc. is a life sciences company dedicated to improving the lives of children and families by delivering innovative diagnostic, therapeutic, and virtual care solutions for global health priorities. Quadrant Biosciences is headquartered in Syracuse, NY, and located throughout the SUNY Upstate Medical University campus. To learn more, visit www.QuadrantBiosciences.com.

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10 NATIONAL NEWS

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Auburn University

commemorates 60 years of integration AUBURN, Ala., PRNewswire -- The Samford Hall bell tolled precisely 10 times at 2:20 p.m. on Jan. 4.

The moment may have confused those not aware of the significance, but it made sense for a small group gathered in the circular brick courtyard near the desegregation marker.

Auburn University President Christopher B. Roberts told the group it was meant to signify the 10 steps Harold A. Franklin took on that day in 1964 to enter the university library and register for classes, officially integrating the university.

Those same steps served as the backdrop for a commemorative event on Jan. 9. A large group of invited guests, university officials, alumni, students, faculty and staff filled in the atrium of the Mell Classroom Building. The group also included a number of Auburn’s “firsts,” like the families of Harold Franklin, Josetta Brittain Matthews and James Owens.

“It is so fitting that we gather today at the very location where the late Dr. Harold Franklin literally took the first steps toward integration at Auburn 60 years ago,” said Quentin Riggins, an Auburn alumnus and president pro tempore of the Auburn Board of Trustees. “It was inside the Ralph Brown Draughon Library right behind me where everything started, and it is quite a surreal PRNewsfoto/Auburn University moment to stand in this spot and realize all that has occurred since that important day on Jan. 4, 1964.”

Riggins shared the podium with Roberts; Taffye Benson Clayton, vice president and associate provost for inclusion and diversity; actor and alumnus Thom Gossom Jr.; Trustee Elizabeth Huntley; and Vini Nathan, provost and senior vice president for academic affairs. Each shared stories about Franklin and his legacy.

Starting a legacy Franklin’s walk on that day set in motion a ripple effect.

In 2021, the university commemorated Franklin’s courage with a bronze plaque and a brick courtyard adjacent to the library. At the dedication ceremony, Roberts said his friend and Auburn engineering alumnus Kenneth Kelly referred to Franklin as a “proud man who never asked for anything but opportunity.”

And benefit others he did.

Two years after Franklin’s integration, Josetta Brittain Matthews became the first African American to graduate. She would then join the Auburn faculty and earn a doctorate, becoming the first person of color to do both.

Samuel Pettijohn Jr. followed, becoming the first African American undergraduate to graduate from Auburn and its first African American ROTC graduate. Yvonne Lampkin Fowlkes was the first African American woman to earn an undergraduate degree.

In the presiding decades, others continued to follow in Franklin’s legacy, including Riggins, who became the first African American to serve as president pro tempore of the Board of Trustees last June, and Gossom, the first African American to walk on the Auburn football team, earn a scholarship and graduate.

South Suburban | Week of January 24, 2024

SOUTH SUBURBAN

One man’s journey Gossom said he was attracted to Auburn for a number of reasons, one being Franklin. Six years after his integration, Gossom said he wrote down a New Year’s resolution: “to attend and play football at Auburn University.” That piece of paper remained in Gossom’s wallet until 1975 when he graduated from Auburn.

The 1960s were tumultuous times, especially in the South, with Alabama Gov. George Wallace standing in front of the schoolhouse door to prevent the integration of the University of Alabama and Martin Luther King Jr. trying to unify a broken nation with his eloquent words in front of the Lincoln Memorial.

Gossom said he would be one of less than 100 African Americans to enter Auburn in its first five years of integration. His parents valued education, but he didn’t know anyone at Auburn or who graduated from there. He didn’t know any of the football coaches, and they didn’t know him.

But the coaches welcomed Gossom.

In 10 months, Auburn awarded Gossom a full athletic scholarship.

He was a starter for the next three years. He saw more black athletes join the team. Win or lose, they all valued Auburn.

For future generations Huntley, an Auburn alumna and member of the Board of Trustees, reminded everyone of Franklin’s “tenacity, perseverance and his Auburn spirit that was never afraid.”

In December 2020, Franklin returned to Auburn to participate in fall commencement. He was presented with a copy of the Auburn Creed — like every student upon graduation — and participated in the ceremonial hooding of Auburn’s first female African American doctoral graduate in the Department of History.

Huntley called it a full-circle moment. Franklin would have earned that same degree had he been given the chance to defend his thesis properly back in the day. Auburn gave him that long-overdue opportunity in February 2020.

Auburn continues to reflect on the legacy of Franklin and the others who followed, like Matthews and Bessie Mae Holloway, the first African American to serve on the Board of Trustees. In 2021, Auburn renamed two of the residence halls in the Village after these trailblazing ladies. A year later, Auburn unveiled the National Pan-Hellenic Council Legacy Plaza, recognizing the history, legacy and cultural impact of Black Greek organizations on campus.

Auburn also renamed its student center after Harold Melton, its first African American Student Government Association president. Huntley’s own daughter, Ada Ruth, would follow in Melton’s footsteps, serving in 2020 as the first African American female SGA president.

“I’m thankful that we have an institution that cares,” said Hailey Clayton, vice president of the Black Student Union. “We’re acknowledging that someone believed in Auburn, even when Auburn didn’t believe in them. And it shows present-day Black students and students of color, but all students that Auburn does believe in you now. If you believe in Auburn, it will believe in you.”

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National Museum of African American History and Culture Celebrates Black History Month “African Americans and the Arts” is the Theme for the Museum’s Online and In-person Offerings The National Museum of African American History and Culture (NMAAHC) commemorates Black History Month with wide-reaching programs that elevate the theme of “African Americans and the Arts,” using art as a platform for social justice. Black History Month also features the museum’s “NMAAHC Kids Learning Together” program, providing an opportunity for kids to virtually meet Black beekeepers, a Black scuba diver, and a Black rock climber. All “NMAAHC Kids” programs are free with advance registration. Explore the museum’s Black History Month online resources, including a dedicated Black History Month webpage at nmaahc.si.edu/Blackhistorymonth.

“The National Museum of African American History and Culture celebrates Black achievement year-round, but we look forward to taking time in February to explore art as a platform for understanding history, struggle, social justice, and triumph,” said Kevin Young, NMAAHC’s Andrew W. Mellon Director. “In doing that, we will put the spotlight on paintings, sculpture, photographs and fiber works that were made to mobilize people to create a better world by harnessing the power of protest, defiance and resilience.”

February Programming Schedule All programs are free; advanced registration is required unless noted below.

Education Programs: Feb. 2, 11 a.m.–12 p.m.: NMAAHC Kids Learning Together: Meet a Beekeeper!

Feb. 9, 11 a.m.–12 p.m.: NMAAHC Kids Learning Together: Meet a Diver!

Feb. 20, 11:30 a.m.–12:45 p.m.: Big Objects, Big Stories: Plywood Panel Mural from Resurrection City Feb. 23, 11 a.m.–12 p.m.: NMAAHC Kids Learning Together: Meet a Rock Climber!

Specialty Tours: Feb. 1, 1:30 p.m. – 3:45 p.m.: Big Objects, Big Stories: The Life of Toussaint L’Ouverture by Jacobs Lawrence Throughout the month: Spotlights: Freedom Now! The Modern Civil Rights Movement (1945-1968) Throughout the month: Slavery and Freedom Highlights Tour Throughout the month: Making A Way Out of No Way Highlight Tour Throughout the month: Big Objects, Big Stories: Afrofuturism and the Black Lives Matter Movement Public Programs: Feb. 9, 6:45 p.m.–9 p.m.: A Seat at the Table: Art: A Tool for Promoting Equity, Fulfillment, and Self-Care ($40) Feb. 15, 7 p.m.–9 p.m.: Iconic Looks: Muse: Cicely Tyson and Me: A Relationship Forged in Fashion Feb. 17, 1 p.m.–3 p.m.: Visual Art Workshop: Gel Plate Printing ($20) The Sweet Home Café The Sweet Home Café brings families and friends together year-round to celebrate African American history and culture through food and hospitality.

During Black History Month “Chef’s Table” events, every Friday from 12 p.m. – 3 p.m., guests can enjoy special menus created by guest chefs from across the country. Participating chefs will tell stories from their heritage through curated menus from the Sweet Home Café kitchen. For more details, please visit the Sweet Home Café’s webpage. Entry to the museum includes access to the Sweet Home Café. Special Dine and Shop passes are also available for access to the Sweet Home Café and gift shop only.

Sweet Home Café Black History Month Chef’s Table Series: Feb. 2, 12 p.m.–3 p.m.: Sweet Home Café Chef’s Table with Chef Chris Scott Feb. 9, 12 p.m.–3 p.m.: Sweet Home Café Chef’s Table with Executive Chef Ramin Coles Feb. 16, 12 p.m.–3 p.m.: Sweet Home Café Chef’s Table with Executive Chef Jeff Cortez Feb. 23, 12 p.m.–3 p.m.: Sweet Home Café Chef’s Table with Executive Chef Tarik Frazier Since opening Sept. 24, 2016, the National Museum of African American History and Culture has welcomed 10 million in-person visitors and millions more through its digital presence. Occupying a prominent location next to the Washington Monument on the National Mall in Washington, D.C., the nearly 400,000-square-foot museum is the nation’s largest and most comprehensive cultural destination devoted exclusively to exploring, documenting and showcasing the African American story and its impact on American and world history.

The museum has also launched and is continually expanding its reach with the Searchable Museum portal and other efforts to bring the African American history into the world’s hands and homes. For more information about the museum, visit nmaahc.si.edu follow @NMAAHC on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram or call Smithsonian information at (202) 633-1000.

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South Suburban | Week of January 24, 2024

LEGAL NOTICE Office of the Minnesota Secretary of State Certificate of Assumed Name Minnesota Statutes, Chapter 333. The filing of an assumed name does not provide a user with exclusive rights to that name. The filing is required for consumer protection in order to enable customers to be able to identify the true owner of a business. ASSUMED NAME: KIERRA CHARDAY STOKES PRINCIPAL PLA CE OF BUSINES S: C/O 433 WEST HARRISON STREET PO BOX 6084 CHICAGO ILLINOIS [60680] United States of America NAMEHOLDER(S): Name: Address: stokes, kierra charday c/o General-Post Office Harrison Street West- 433 Chicago Illinois 60699-9998 United States Minor, Outlying Islands. If you submit an attachment, it will be incorporated into this document. If the attachment conflicts with the information specifically set forth in this document, this document supersedes the data referenced in the attachment. By typing my name, I, the undersigned, certify that I am signing this document as the person whose signature is required, or as agent of the person(s) whose signature would be required who has authorized me to sign this document on his/her behalf, or in both capacities.

I further certify that I have completed all required fields, and that the information in this document is true and correct and in compliance with the applicable chapter of Minnesota Statutes. I understand that by signing this document I am subject to the penalties of perjury as set forth in Section 609.48 as if I had signed this document under oath. SIGNED BY: stokes,kierra charday MAILING ADDRESS: C/O 433 WEST HARRISON STREET PO BOX 6084 CHICAGO ILLINOIS [60680] EMAIL FOR OFFICIAL NOTICES: kcsexecutrixoffice@gmail.com __________________________________ Office of the Minnesota Secretary of State Certificate of Assumed Name Minnesota Statutes, Chapter 333. The filing of an assumed name does not provide a user with exclusive rights to that name. The filing is required for consumer protection in order to enable customers to be able to identify the true owner of a business. ASSUMED NAME: BRIAYANA TANSHAY STOKES PRINCIPAL PLACE OF BUSINESS: c/o 433 WEST HARRISON STREET PO B ox 779 3 Chicago Illinois [60680] United States of America NAMEHOLDER(S): Name: Address: stokes, briayana tanshay c/o General-Post Office Harrison Street West- 433 Chicago Illinois 60699-9998 United States Minor, Outlying Islands. If you submit an attachment, it will be incorporated into this document. If the attachment conflicts with the information

specifically set forth in this document, this document supersedes the data referenced in the attachment. By typing my name, I, the undersigned, certify that I am signing this document as the person whose signature is required, or as agent of the person(s) whose signature would be required who has authorized me to sign this document on his/her behalf, or in both capacities. I further certify that I have completed all required fields, and that the information in this document is true and correct and in compliance with the applicable chapter of Minnesota Statutes. I understand that by signing this document I am subject to the penalties of perjury as set forth in Section 609.48 as if I had signed this document under oath. SIGNED BY: stokes, briayana ta nshay MA ILING ADDRESS : c/o 433 WE ST HARRISON STREET PO BOX 7793 Chicago Illinois [60680] EMAIL FOR OFFICIAL NOTICES: btsexecutrixoffice@gmail.com ___________________________________ Office of the Minnesota Secretary of State Certificate of Assumed Name Minnesota Statutes, Chapter 333. The filing of an assumed name does not provide a user with exclusive rights to that name. The filing is required for consumer protection in order to enable customers to be able to identify the true owner of a business. ASSUMED NAME: FELISHA HOWARD PRINCIPAL PLACE OF BUSINESS: C/O 433 WEST HARRISON STREET PO BOX 6088 CHICAGO ILLINOIS [60680] UNITED STATES OF AMERICA NAMEHOLDER(S): Name: Address: howard, felisha c/o General-Post Office Harrison Street West- 433 Chicago Illinois 60699-9998 United States Minor, Outlying Islands.

If you submit an attachment, it will be incorporated into this document. If the attachment conflicts with the information specifically set forth in this document, this document supersedes the data referenced in the attachment. By typing my name, I, the undersigned, certify that I am signing this document as the person whose signature is required, or as agent of the person(s) whose signature would be required who has authorized me to sign this document on his/her behalf, or in both capacities. I further certify that I have completed all required fields, and that the information in this document is true and correct and in compliance with the applicable chapter of Minnesota Statutes.

I understand that by signing this document I am subject to the penalties of perjury as set forth in Section 609.48 as if I had signed this document under oath. SIGNED BY: howard,felisha MAILING ADDRESS: c/o 433 WEST HARRISON STREET PO BOX 6088 CHICAGO ILLINOIS [60680] EMAIL FOR OFFICIAL NOTICES: fhexecutrixoffice@gmail.com _______________________________________ Office of the Minnesota Secretary of State Certificate of Assumed Name Minnesota Statutes, Chapter 333. The filing of an assumed name does not provide a user with exclusive rights to that name. The filing is required for consumer

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protection in order to enable customers to be able to identify the true owner of a business.

ASSUMED NAME: LAKENDRICK CONNILUS STOKES PRINCIPAL PLACE OF BUSINESS: c/o 433 WEST HARRISON STREET PO BOX 6342 CHICAGO ILLINOIS [60680] UNITED STATES OF AMERICA NAMEHOLDER(S): Name: Address: stokes, lakendrick connilus c/o GeneralPost Office Harrison Street West- 433 Chicago Illinois 60699-9998 United States Minor, Outlying Islands. If you submit an attachment, it will be incorporated into this document. If the attachment conflicts with the information specifically set forth in this document, this document supersedes the data referenced in the attachment. By typing my name, I, the undersigned, certify that I am signing this document as the person whose signature is required, or as agent of the person(s) whose signature would be required who has authorized me to sign this document on his/her behalf, or in both capacities. I further certify that I have completed all required fields, and that the information in this document is true and correct and in compliance with the applicable chapter of Minnesota Statutes.

I understand that by signing this document I am subject to the penalties of perjury as set forth in Section 609.48 as if I had signed this document under oath. SIGNED BY: stokes, lakendrick connilus MAILING ADDRESS: c/o 433 WEST HARRISON STREET PO BOX 6342 CHICAGO ILLINOIS [60680] EMAIL FOR OFFICIAL NOTICES: lcsexecutoroffice@gmail.com _______________________________________ Office of the Minnesota Secretary of State Certificate of Assumed Name Minnesota Statutes, Chapter 333 The filing of an assumed name does not provide a user with exclusive rights to that name. The filing is required for consumer protection in order to enable customers to be able to identify the true owner of a business.

ASSUMED NAME: BRASHAD QUINTRELL STOKES PRINCIPAL PLACE OF BUSINESS: c/o 433 WEST HARRISON STREET PO BOX 6223 CHICAGO ILLINOIS [60680] UNITED STATES OF AMERICA NAMEHOLDER(S): Name: Address: stokes, brashad quintrell c/o GeneralPost Office Harrison Street West- 433 Chicago Illinois 60699-9998 United States Minor, Outlying Islands. If you submit an attachment, it will be incorporated into this document. If the attachment conflicts with the information specifically set forth in this document, this document supersedes the data referenced in the attachment. By typing my name, I, the undersigned, certify that I am signing this document as the person whose signature is required, or as agent of the person(s) whose signature would be required who has authorized me to sign this document on his/her behalf, or in both capacities. I further certify that I have completed all required fields, and that the information in this document is true and correct and in compliance with the applicable chapter of Minnesota Statutes.

I understand that by signing this document I am subject to the penalties of perjury as set forth in Section 609.48 as if I had signed this document under oath. SIGNED BY: stokes,brashad quintrell MAILING ADDRESS: c/o 433 WEST HARRISON STREET PO BOX 6223 CHICAGO ILLINOIS [60680] EMAIL FOR OFFICIAL NOTICES: bqsexecutoroffice@gmail.com _______________________________________ Office of the Minnesota Secretary of State Certificate of Assumed Name Minnesota Statutes, Chapter 333. The filing of an assumed name does not provide a user with exclusive rights to that name. The filing is required for consumer protection in order to enable customers to be able to identify the true owner of a business.

ELIZABETH “LIZZIE G” ELIE LICENSED REALTOR

773.543.1783 eelie@kalerealty.com elizabethelie.kalerealty.com 2447 N. Ashland Chicago, IL 60614 @SoldbyLizzieG

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ASSUMED NAME: CONNILUS JEROME STOKES PRINCIPAL PLACE OF BUSINESS: c/o 433 WEST HARRISON STREET PO BOX 6223 CHICAGO ILLINOIS [60680] UNITED STATES OF AMERICA NAMEHOLDER(S): Name: Address: stokes, connilus jerome c/o GeneralPost Office Harrison Street West- 433 Chicago Illinois 60699-9998 United States Minor, Outlying Islands. If you submit an attachment, it will be incorporated into this document. If the attachment conflicts with the information specifically set forth in this document, this document supersedes the data referenced in the attachment. By typing my name, I, the undersigned, certify that I am signing this document as the person whose signature is required, or as agent of the person(s) whose signature would be required who has authorized me to sign this document on his/her behalf, or in both capacities. I further certify that I have completed all required fields, and that the information in this document is true and correct and in compliance with the applicable chapter of Minnesota Statutes.

I understand that by signing this document I am subject to the penalties of perjury as set forth in Section 609.48 as if I had signed this document under oath. SIGNED BY: stokes,connilus jerome MAILING ADDRESS: c/o 433 WEST HARRISON STREET PO BOX 6223 CHICAGO ILLINOIS [60680] EMAIL FOR OFFICIAL NOTICES: cjsexecutoroffice@gmail.com _______________________________________

HEALTH/PERSONALS/ MISCELLANEOUS HERNIA REPAIR? Did you receive the Mesh Patch Between 2018 and the present?

Was the patch removed due to complications, you may be entitled to compensation.

Attorney Charles Johnson 1-800-535-5727 FAX: 651-633-4442 _______________________________________

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