South Suburban Citizen 03-29-2023

MEALS ON WHEELS EXPANDS NOURISH CHICAGO FOOD PANTRY

In June 2022, Meals on Wheels Chicago opened Nourish Chicago Pantry to support seniors struggling with food insecurity. Meals on Wheels Chicago has announced the expansion of the program with Nourish Chicago Pop Up Produce Markets. These events feature a variety of fresh produce, providing the same grocery-store quality items for seniors in need as the regular Nourish Chicago Pantry.

This expansion is part of a continued effort to put health on the pantry shelf for seniors. Nourish Chicago Pantry advances Meals on Wheels Chicago’s mission to improve quality of life and maximize independence for seniors in our community. The cost of food and limited transportation to full-stock grocery stores can limit a senior’s access to fresh produce and pantry goods, and seniors living on a fixed income are often forced to choose between food, medicine, and the cost of housing. With the added pressure of inflation, food costs rising sharply, and the recent end of COVID-19 emergency SNAP benefits, many seniors in our community are making difficult financial decisions and forgoing trips to the grocery store.

The Nourish Chicago Pop Up Produce Markets will take place from 1:00 pm - 2:00 pm at the following locations:

Central West Ogden Senior Center, 2102 W Ogden Avenue:

April 5, May 3, June 7, July 12, August 2

Northwest Copernicus Senior Center, 3160 N Milwaukee Avenue:

April 17, May 15, June 20, July 17, August 21

Southeast Atlas Senior Center, 1767 E 79th Street

April 20, May 18, June 22, July 20, August 17

Southwest Senior Center, 6117 S Kedzie Avenue

April 7, May 5, June 2, July 7, August 4

And from 12:30 pm – 1:30 pm at the following location:

Northeast Levy Senior Center, 2019 W Lawrence Avenue:

April 25, May 23, June 27, July 25, August 22

Org Website: www.mealsonwheelschicago.org

Pantry Website: nourishchicago.org

NICOR GAS COMMITS $30,000 TO LAKE KATHERINE NATURE CENTER & BOTANIC GARDENS

NAPERVILLE, Ill. -- In honor of the first day of Spring, Nicor Gas is announcing a commitment of $30,000 over the next two years to complete woodland restoration and increase programming for senior citizens and underserved students at the Lake Katherine Nature Center & Botanic Gardens.

Through this strategic partnership, Lake Katherine expects to restore one acre of land, plant 16 native trees, install five pollinator gardens and engage more than 1,000 underserved individuals in nature.

“At Nicor Gas, we believe in not only preserving our environment today, but preparing it for generations to come,” said Somali Tomczak, director of Regional Operations at Nicor Gas and vice chair for the Board of Directors at Lake Katherine Nature Center and Botanic Garden. “We are committed to serving our communities and ensuring our service territory is a place where nature and wildlife thrive, while also providing educational and recreational spaces for our customers.”

Over the next two years, the team at the Lake Katherine Nature Center and Botanic Gardens will restore woodlands that adjoin to a new senior center, including access to biking trails that serve nearly 80,000 people a year. Additionally, Lake Katherine plans to work with five schools from underserved areas and enable them to participate in programming and create their own pollinator gardens on their campuses.

To learn more about Nicor Gas’ commitment to the communities it serves and the environment, visit www.NicorGas.com/CharitableGiving.

Prairie State College receives $1 million grant

BY TIA CAROL JONES

Prairie State College has received a $1 million grant as part of the federal community project funding. The College will use the funds to advance its dental hygiene program. On Wednesday, March 15th, Congresswoman Robin Kelly presented a ceremonial check to Prairie State College’s President Dr. Michael Anthony.

“When Prairie State College told my office about their need to re-engage students, grow a state-of-the-art dental hygiene program, and invest in a modern network system to allow for uninterrupted learning, we got to work,” Congresswoman Kelly said in a release.

Prairie State College’s dental hygiene program is an 82-hour program which will result in an Associate in Applied Science degree. The goal of the program is to prepare the student to be employed as a dental hygienist. The program is fully accredited by the American Dental Association Commission on Dental Accreditation and meets the State of Illinois Board of Dentistry guidelines.

According to Anthony, the dental hygiene program is one of Prairie State College’s more popular healthcare programs. Last year, there were between 40-50 students enrolled in the dental hygiene program. In the dental assistant program, there were between 15-20 students enrolled. Last semester, the College unveiled its full service, state-of-the-art dental hygiene clinic. The clinic is used to teach students and to service

community members. There also is a dental assistant program, which is stackable, and enables students to get their first level of training and get employment and come back later to get a dental hygiene degree.

“We knew we had the capacity to take almost double the number of students, but we had to utilize our simulation lab to do so,” Anthony said. The simulation lab needs major renovation to enable students to get the best training. Once renovations and updates are made to the simulation lab, it can expand the capacity. Because the program is hands-on, more space is needed. The aim is also to help people meet their workforce goals sooner.

“With this grant, we will establish a state-ofthe-art simulation laboratory and will provide a safe and controlled environment for students to practice their clinical skills,” Rebecca Buckle, associate professor of the clinical coordinator in the dental hygiene program, said in a release. “The sim lab will enable our students to gain valued hands-on experience, which will increase their confidence and competence in delivering dental hygiene and assisting services and procedures, including preventative care, restorative and periodontal treatments.”

Prairie State College will host its Healthy Smiles Day, which provides free dental care for children ages 3-17, on Saturday, April 22nd. To set up an appointment, call 708-709-3707. On the same day, between 10 a.m. and noon, Prairie State College will host an Open House. At the Open House, people can talk to faculty and students.

For more information about the dental hygiene program, visit https://tinyurl.com/3z67ejtw, and visit prairiestate.edu for more information about Prairie State College.

Gov. Pritzker Announces New Behavioral Health Workforce Education Center

SPRINGFIELD — Governor JB Pritzker along with state and local officials celebrated the launch of a new Behavioral Health Workforce Education Center, which will increase Illinois’ capacity to recruit, educate, and retain behavioral health professionals. The Center builds upon the state’s commitment to behavioral health transformation, strengthening behavioral health care infrastructure and access across the state.

Housed at Southern Illinois University’s School of Medicine, the Center was created in partnership with the University of Illinois Chicago (UIC) Jane Addams College of Social Work, the Illinois Board of Higher Education (IBHE), and the Illinois Department of Human Services (DHS).

“From care portals and universal screenings to improved coordination of service delivery and increased statewide capacity, we are laying out a plan to build the best behavioral health system in the nation,” said Governor JB Pritzker. “We’re launching the Behavioral Health Workforce Education Center, a partnership between the Illinois Board of Higher Education, Southern Illinois University’s School of Medicine, and the University of Illinois Chicago’s Jane Addams College of Social Work. It will begin with a $5 million annual investment from the Department of Human Services to help both rural and urban areas of our state address the behavioral healthcare crisis to increase access to effective services for all Illinoisans.”

In Illinois and across the nation, behavioral health professionals are only able to provide a fraction of the services required to meet the population’s needs due to a national shortage of workers. The Center was established to combat these critical shortages in the workforce by addressing barriers to recruitment and training, collecting data on behavioral health needs, increasing diversity in the workforce, and expanding the capacity of health care providers to meet behavioral health needs.

Southern Illinois University School of Medicine (SIU SOM) will serve as the primary administrative hub in Springfield, providing coordination and support for building the behavioral health workforce pipeline and increasing entry into the field. The UIC Jane Addams College of Social Work will serve as the secondary hub, supporting specific data collection and training initiatives.

Public and independent universities, as well as community colleges in ten regions, will be invited to participate as partners to increase the statewide impact.

The creation of the Center is a milestone in a long-term plan to address the behavioral health workforce emergency. State lawmakers sounded an alarm about the staffing shortages in a unanimous 2018 resolution. In 2019, a Behavioral Health Workforce Education Center Task Force issued a final report recommending the creation of a hub-and-spoke center to address unmet mental and behavioral health needs.

SIU SOM, UIC Jane Addams College of Social Work, and all consortium members will coordinate programs and oversee initiatives to increase the behavioral healthcare workforce and its capacity to provide high-quality behavioral health services across the state.

“Everyone deserves equal access to behavioral and mental health care services. I’m pleased to hear that Behavioral Health Education Centers are being offered in partnership with the Dept. of Human Services, the Illinois Board of Higher Education, and key agencies to collaboratively bring more mental health workers to communities that badly need them,” said State Senator Mike Simmons (D-Chicago). “This initiative will help grow the number of behavioral health emergency workers and provide people in our community with the support they need and deserve.”

“The shortage of behavioral health workers needs to be met with a firm commitment to proactive education programs,” said State Representative Lakesia Collins, (D-Chicago). “By centralizing efforts for behavior health education, we can spur the growth of well-trained professionals in this field, and provide much-needed assistance to countless Illinoisans who need caregivers.”

“I commend and thank Governor Pritzker for prioritizing behavioral health workforce development in Illinois. The Workforce Center is an opportunity to transform the system to make it more responsive to the needs of individuals, families and children in this State,” said Grace B. Hou, Secretary, Illinois Department of Human Services. “IDHS is energized to work with our partners to strengthen the infrastructure needed to provide critical services to those in need.”

Congresswoman Robin Kelly presented Prairie State College President Dr. Michael Anthony with a ceremonial check for $1 million. The College will use the money to expand its dental hygiene program. Photo provided by Prairie State College.

THE CANDIDATE SPEAKS…

Christopher J. Clark

Continued from page 1

Citizen Newspaper: How would you improve and expand public safety in the City of Harvey?

Harvey Mayor Christopher Clark: We have made substantial progress towards improving public safety by removing nearly 200 illegal guns off the streets, reducing homicides by 55% from 2021 and gunshot victims by 38%. We achieved this success through a multi-pronged approach that included: making significant investments in new equipment such as police vehicles, tasers, body cameras, license plate readers, and surveillance cameras.

It’s great to see the progress that the City of Harvey has made towards improving public safety; the city has gone approximately 3 months without a single homicide, which is a tremendous accomplishment. However, there are still

opportunities to further enhance public safety and rebuild communi ty trust. As we look to build on this success we will continue with our comprehensive plan to include public trust between the police and the community, education for residents on communi ty safety techniques, our new tip411 system and community events (National Night Out, a Citizens Police Academy for residents to be educated on community safety techniques, cancer walks, pet-fair for dog and cat registration, Halloween trunk or treats, car-shows, and Christmas toy drives) to encourage engagement and collaboration. We will also continue to focus on infrastructure improvements such as repairing and replacing streetlights, demolishing abandoned buildings, and improving road conditions. These improvements can help deter criminal activity by creating a more secure and well-maintained environment. We recently received $2.8 million from the U.S. Congresswoman Robin Kelly for the purchase of a new fire truck, demolition of blighted homes and improvement of streetlights. While we have already repaired, replaced or retrofitted over 2000 streetlights and demolished over 50 abandoned buildings, the additional funds will assist in furthering our mission to improve and expand public safety.

investments to the city, and to ensure long-term sustainable economic growth. Trust in the police department: Prior to taking office, the Harvey Police Department was raided twice by the federal government and once by the state. Several of those former officers have been indicted and/or convicted. Since taking office, our department has worked to remove corruption, and terminate bad actors. This goes a long way in rebuilding trust.

A cleaner city contributes to economic viability. Since taking office, the public works department has invested in a cleaner city. The department has purchased six new snowplows and dump trucks, a new frontloader and various landscaping equipment to keep our city clean. Additionally, the department has employed Harvey residents, who have a stake in our city, to address issues of blight throughout our community.

POLITICAL AFFAIRS

THREATS TO MARRIAGE RIGHTS ARE THREATS TO ALL RIGHTS BY

SVANTE MYRICK

If you’ve been watching what’s going on in state legislatures lately, you know that red-state lawmakers are all-in on attacking three things: abortion, voting rights and LGBTQ rights. And in Tennessee, a real alarm bell just rang.

The state House passed a bill that would effectively end marriage equality in the state, by allowing county clerks to refuse marriage licenses to same-sex couples. In fact, the law would allow clerks to refuse to issue marriage licenses for any couple if they disagreed with the union. That could mean same-sex couples, interracial couples, or interfaith couples.

We don’t know how far this bill will go in the state Senate. But a sufficient number of Tennessee House members voted for it, and that’s disturbing enough. Especially since President Biden just signed the Respect for Marriage Act to protect marriage equality at the federal level. It turns out this bill takes advantage of a loophole in the federal legislation, because the federal law does not say states have to issue marriage licenses to same-sex couples.

We may or may not be in same-sex marriages ourselves, or know people who are. But those of us who disagree with this inhumanity being inflicted on other Americans have to speak out. I’m proud to say my mom, who is my hero in many ways, set this example for me.

CHATHAM-SOUTHEAST

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

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

SOUTH SUBURBAN

Serves communities in Harvey, Markham, Phoenix, Robbins, Dixmoor, Calumet Park, Blue Island,SouthHolland,and Dolton.

Shopping- their favorite pastime!

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

CHICAGO WEEKEND

Chicago Westside Communities, Austin and Garfield Park

SUBURBAN TIMES WEEKLY

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

Citizen Newspaper Group Inc., (CNGII), Publisher of the ChathamSoutheast,South End, ChicagoWeekend,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.

ELIZABETH “LIZZIE G” ELIE

LICENSED REALTOR

Furthermore, we are nearing completion of the first of seven police substations (one in each ward) that was financed from a grant from our State Rep. William Davis and Nicor Gas. These substations will act as safety centers for each ward and provide a visible police presence that can improve public trust and community engagement. Daily manned substations can also serve as points of contact for residents to report crimes, seek assistance or ask for information.

Lastly, we will continue to explore partnerships with other leaders, agencies, organizations, and businesses to strengthen our efforts towards improving public safety. These collaborations can bring additional resources, expertise, and funding to support public safety initiatives.

Citizen Newspaper: What are some of the things you think could make Harvey more economically viable?

Clark: Trust in the police department, investing in a cleaner city, increasing population density and bringing in new investments are some of the key factors that could make Harvey more economically viable. It is important to continue focusing on these areas to attract more businesses, residents and

We are increasing our population and density. We have brought in millions of dollars in investment to improve our PACE and Metra system, which will give our neighboring communities easier access to key areas within our city. As we become a more attractive city, we expect that neighboring communities will opt to spend some of their discretionary income in Harvey. Additionally, Harvey has secured a $19 million investment in new housing through “Harvey Lofts”, a 51-unit workforce housing development. This development will create a greater population density, encouraging future investment and development in the downtown area.

Citizen Newspaper: How would you bring more jobs and economic development to Harvey?

Clark: My administration is actively seeking to attract new businesses to the city by highlighting our strategic location, transportation infrastructure, and the available workforce in the area. We have been reaching out to businesses in various industries, including technology, healthcare, and manufacturing, to showcase the benefits of setting up operations in Harvey. We have secured development and investment opportunities; such as: the Southland Logistics Center on the former Dixie Square Mall site, $94 million Wood Street reconstruction, and $70 million Metra/Pace reconstruction will provide job and economic development opportunities and skills that our residents can use now and in the future. Additionally, we have businesses, such as 160 Driving Academy, University of Chicago at Ingalls, Fuchs Laboratories, Atkore International, and others which provide a variety of job opportunities in the construction, health, trucking and

Continue to page 9

Mom played the piano in our church for two decades. There came a time when the question of same-sex marriage came up, and individual churches within our denomination were allowed to make their own decisions about whether to perform them. Sadly, our church decided not to. And Mom resigned there and then.

She did that even though nobody in our family or immediate circle was in a same-sex relationship. She did it because she had the courage to stand up for other people even when she had no skin in the game herself. Later, when I became mayor of Ithaca, I had the honor to perform the first same-sex wedding in our city.

Mom taught me that we need to stand up for the full spectrum of civil and human rights, whether a particular right affects us personally or not. It is the moral thing to do. And that’s enough. But for those who need more convincing, it’s well-known that if someone is coming after a right that doesn’t affect you today, chances are they will come for rights that do affect you tomorrow. Authoritarians have a pattern of chipping away at rights until they win the big prize.

A classic example of this is the long road to undermining Roe and the right to choose. For years, people were called alarmists for warning that Roe could be overturned. And guess what; the alarmists were right.

Not only that, but when the Supreme Court did away with Roe last year, Justice Clarence Thomas wrote the words that everyone feared: “In future cases, we should reconsider all of this Court’s substantive due process precedents, including Griswold, Lawrence, and Obergefell.” That means “reconsidering” the right to use birth control (Griswold), the right to same-sex intimate relationships (Lawrence), and the right to same-sex marriage (Obergefell).

The prospect is chilling – and where does this end? What about Loving v. Virginia, the case that affirmed the right to interracial marriage? Many of us would have said it’s alarmist to think that right could be lost. But again, the alarmists were right when it came to Roe. And the bill in Tennessee’s House appears to open a door to this possibility.

I’m deeply concerned about what is happening in Tennessee and the red flag raised by Justice Thomas. More than 40 years ago another Supreme Court justice, the late Thurgood Marshall, spoke words that are as apt today as they were then. Justice Marshall said, “Where you see wrong or inequality or injustice, speak out, because this is your country. This is your democracy. Make it. Protect it. Pass it on.”

Our rights depend on it.

Svante Myrick is President of People For the American Way. Previously, he served as executive director of People For and led campaigns focused on transforming public safety, racial equity, voting rights, and empowering young elected officials. Myrick garnered national attention as the youngest-ever mayor in New York State history.

These tax tips can make filing (1040) EZ

SPONSORED CONTENT FROM JPMORGAN CHASE & CO.

With tax day approaching, there’s no time like the present to get started on your 2022 returns and submit them well before the April 18 deadline.

This year, you have a few extra days to complete your taxes. With the typical deadline of April 15 falling on a weekend, followed by Emancipation Day on Monday, this year’s filing date is on Tuesday, April 18.

“Though there are a few extra days to file, make sure to still give yourself ample time to gather and organize your tax information to take advantage of any and all tax deductions, or other tax breaks that may apply to you and your family,” says Kelly Perez, Wealth Advisor for J.P. Morgan Private Bank. “Many key deductions that may reduce your tax bill or provide a refund are often left on the table due to lack of preparation. Whether you file on your own or work with a paid tax professional, the initial groundwork is the key to maximizing your benefits.”

Ready to submit or get started? Here are some tips to help simplify the process, maximize your potential refund or minimize your tax burden before you finalize your return.

• Get organized. Make sure you have important documents like last year’s return, current W-2s, 1099s and mortgage interest statements on hand. You’ll also want to gather receipts for tax-deductible purchases, travel, charitable contributions and other potential write-offs. You can look online to find checklists of documents you might need to help you file.

• Be aware of tax law changes. While taxes are inevitable, what you may owe or get refunded might not

be. As you finalize or start your 2022 tax return, be aware of changes to federal, state and local tax laws that could affect your refund or how much you owe. For example, if you benefitted from the child tax credit, earned income tax credit or child and dependent care credit on your 2021 return, don’t be surprised if you get a smaller refund

gles and $25,900 for most married couples filing jointly), it might be worth it to itemize. Taking the standard deduction can make the filing process easier, but it could mean you pay more in taxes or receive a smaller refund.

• Contribute to retirement accounts. You can fund a traditional or Roth IRA through the April 18, 2023, tax filing deadline and have it count for 2022. Traditional IRA contributions lower your tax bill right now, while your Roth IRA withdrawals are tax-free in retirement. You can contribute up to $6,000 to an IRA each year, or—if you were 50 years or older in 2022—up to $7,000 of your earned income.

• Seek help when you need it. If you have a more comprehensive tax return, it can be a good idea to work with a certified public accountant (CPA). If you need assistance in general, check if you qualify for free in-person or remote programs offered by the IRS or local organizations depending on your income, age and disability status.

• Go faster by going digital. Filing electronically will get your return to you more quickly than filing by mail. Selecting direct deposit to a bank account or prepaid card will make the process even faster.

this year. Credits expanded as part of federal Covid relief packages have now returned to pre-pandemic levels.

• Are you working from home permanently? If you have a home-based business, you might qualify for a home office tax deduction. You can potentially write off expenses for a part of your home you only use for business purposes.

• To itemize or not to itemize. Determine whether you’ll itemize your expenses or take the standard deduction. If you think your qualified expenses will be more than the 2022 standard deduction ($12,950 for most sin-

• Need more time? If you can’t file by April 18, you can fill out a Form 4868 that will extend your filing deadline to October 16. An extension to file isn’t an extension to pay, so if you think you’ll owe, plan to submit an estimated payment amount when you file your extension.

The bottom line – Filing your taxes doesn’t have to be difficult. Getting organized now will help make tax season easier this year and put you in better shape for years to come. For more tips to help you make the most of you and your family’s finances, visit J.P. Morgan’s U.S. Tax Center at privatebank.jpmorgan.com/gl/en/insights/planning/us-tax-center.

Savoy Magazine Unveils the Most Influential Executives in Diversity & Inclusion in its 22nd Anniversary Issue

ATLANTA, PRNewswire -- Savoy Magazine has announced the 2023 Most Influential Executives in Diversity & Inclusion, recognizing professionals who have driven positive change within their organizations and the corporate world. These executives have implemented innovative diversity, equity, and inclusion strategies to recruit, retain, elevate, and embrace diverse talent.

“We’re thrilled to showcase exceptional individuals driving positive change in their organizations and beyond.”

The spring issue of Savoy Magazine features a cover story on Michael C. Hyter, President and CEO of The Executive Leadership Council. In addition, the magazine contains three other special sections: Corporate Diversity Matters, Diversity in Higher Education, and Legal Diversity Matters. Corporate Diversity Matters, features contributions from some of the largest companies in the country, highlighting their efforts to promote diversity within their organizations. Diversity in Higher Education and Legal Diversity Matters sections discuss the diversity initiatives of multiple universities and law firms, respectively.

L.P. Green, II, Publisher of Savoy Magazine, expressed excitement at the opportunity to recognize these exceptional executives in the field of diversity, equity, and inclusion. “We are thrilled to

showcase the achievements of these outstanding individuals who have made a significant impact on their organizations and in the broader corporate world. Their unwavering commitment to promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion is an inspiration to us all,” said Green.

The full 2023 Most Influential Executives in Diversity & Inclusion list, as well as Corporate Diversity Matters, Diversity in Higher Education, and Legal Diversity Matters sections, are available online exclusively at savoynetwork.com. For those who prefer a print edition, the summer issue of Savoy magazine is available for purchase online through Amazon and savoynetwork.com/shop.

Savoy Magazine celebrates the power, substance, and style of African American lifestyle, serving as a cultural catalyst for the community and driving positive dialogue on Black culture. The magazine is published quarterly and distributed worldwide via subscriptions and newsstands.

Savoy Magazine Celebrates 22 Years and Honors the Most Influential Executives in Diversity & Inclusion in their Spring edition. Featuring Michael C. Hyter, President & CEO of The Executive Leadership Council. Savoy Media Group.

Good Scent Oils expanding its brand

Chicago born entrepreneur named Regina M. Earvin-Underwood is making her own history; as the world celebrates Women’s History Month this March. She was recently approved for the Walmart Marketplace. As the Owner of Good Scents Oils (GSO), she has come a long way. From selling GSO products from home, to vending at events, to hiring individual sales reps, to opening her first store in 2006, to selling her products at a mall kiosk in 2019, to opening her own warehouse distribution center in 2020, to partnering with Walmart marketplace in 2023. This is an opportunity to dream bigger and expand the GSO brand.

Regina has strategically built GSO since 1994. It is currently a woman owned business with products being shipped to 51 states and 10 countries that are derived from recipes inspired by a phenomenal woman, her Grandmother. Some of the labels even carry her name, such as Ella Mae’s German Chocolate Cake Body Scrub,

Ella Mae’s Strawberry Cheesecake Body Scrub, Ella Mae’s Lemon Pound Cake Whipped Butter Cream and Body Scrub.

While building her own business, Regina also builds community online, where she has more than 40,000 followers. She has established a bold blueprint for community reinvestment. She consistently gives back to the community by purchasing supplies locally to ensure that as her business grows, local businesses also grow. She helps local business owners by placing their flyers in bags when people shop at her store and in the boxes that are shipped both nationally and internationally. Each GSO order is shipped with love, and it is evident on every label which includes a heart around the letters GSO.

Regina is a world-changing entrepreneur whose GSO products have been enjoyed by nationally known celebrities. I believe your audience will be motivated to keep pursuing their dreams, when they hear her story.

Regina M. Earvin-Underwood

Firstline Brands Launches Satin Sleep Collection in Partnership with Karma’s World Entertainment

HOUSTON, Texas, PRNewswire -- Firstline Brands, the leading textured hair accessory company in the U.S., furthers its mission to innovate high-quality haircare and fashion items with the launch of its Karma’s World© Satin Sleep Collection under its Camryn’s BFF® brand for girls and tweens.

The collection is the brand’s first release under a groundbreaking licensing agreement with 9 Story Media Group and Karma’s World, the hit animated Netflix series executive produced by Chris ‘Ludacris’ Bridges and inspired by his oldest daughter. Karma’s World follows 10-yearold Karma Grant, an aspiring musician with enormous talent and an even bigger heart.

The Karma’s World© Satin Sleep Collection by Camryn’s BFF® is an assortment of satin bonnets and pillowcases made with non-abrasive, high-quality satin in three fun, vibrant, and coordinated prints that inspire sweet dreams and leans into the series’ focus on issues such as self-expres-

sion, creativity, and identity.

“We immediately recognized how closely aligned Karma’s World is to Firstline’s values for Camryn’s BFF. What I love about this partnership is the opportunity to combine our expertise in developing elevated haircare accessories and tools with Karma’s lovable and confident personality. Positive, colorful, bold, and beautiful like Karma, the assortment educates girls and tweens about healthy haircare practices that are incredibly important as they come of age,” said Joni A. Odum, President and CEO of Firstline Brands.

“We’re excited to partner with Firstline Brands to expand the Karma’s World universe. 9 Story Media Group’s main goal is to align with brands that

speak to the representation and inclusive storytelling embedded within the groundbreaking series. Firstline’s new product offering of the Karma’s World Satin Sleep collection of bonnets and pillowcases is truly innovative, and we can’t wait for kids to see it,” said Kyra Halperin, Co-Vice President, 9 Story Brands.

The Karma’s World© Satin Sleep Collection by Camryn’s BFF® is available TODAY on Amazon. com/karmasworld and in beauty supply stores across the country:

Karma’s World© Satin Pillowcase - Available in Black, Teal, and White Prints ($9.82)

Designed with luxuriously smooth satin, the Karma’s World Satin Pillowcase by Camryn’s BFF® is the superlative option for protecting her hair during sleep. Its non-abrasive fabric minimizes hair breakage, reduces frizz, and maintains natural moisture to promote healthy hair.

Karma’s World© Satin Bonnet - Available in Teal and White Prints ($6.99) and Available in Reversible Black Print with Fuchsia ($7.99)

Karma’s World Satin Bonnet by Camryn’s BFF® is the ultimate hair protector. This soft bonnet, made of non-abrasive, high-quality satin will help retain her hair’s natural moisture while keeping it secure and intact during nighttime wear. Great for protecting all hair types and styles.

Karma’s World Teal Satin Lined Bonnet on Model

Karma’s World Teal Satin Pillowcase

Woodlawn Central Selects Transwestern as Real Estate Services Provider

CHICAGO, PRNewswire -- Woodlawn Central (WC), an 8-acre, $895 million mixed-use megadevelopment designed to be a catalyst for urban regeneration in Woodlawn, has hired Transwestern Real Estate Services as its commercial real estate services provider. With a diverse, minority-led team and a mission to spur transformative change in not only this undercapitalized neighborhood but also its contiguous neighborhoods, Woodlawn Central LLC felt Transwestern would be a best-in-class partner due to the organization’s broad, integrated capabilities and innovative, collaborative, client-focused business model.

J.C. Griffin of Transwestern’s Midwest Capital Markets Group will serve as owner representative through all phases of the development project, coordinating brokerage activities, marketing and research efforts, project capitalization and financing, and project/construction services. Griffin will report directly to J. Byron Brazier, the project sponsor and lead developer of WC.

Given Transwestern’s extensive experience, its strategic services will be invaluable in helping Woodlawn Central LLC position the project, which in part is sited in a qualified opportunity zone, for investment and prepare it for the necessary zoning entitlements to build a robust mix of community assets.

In addition to J. Byron Brazier, the LLC’s members—all leaders with deep experience in economic development or philanthropy—include Dr. Byron Brazier, Vince Lane, Mary Richardson-Lowry, Lisa Mazique and Don Thompson.

Transwestern brings a comprehensive skill set to Woodlawn Central

“Woodlawn Central has a broad scope because it’s been designed to bring significant economic benefits to an undercapitalized community in multiple ways. We wanted to partner with a firm that’s multifaceted, agile and has deep expertise in development, project management, investment services, public engagement and more. Transwestern checked all the proverbial boxes for us,” J. Byron Brazier, managing member of Woodlawn Central LLC, said.

Besides approximately 870 homes ranging from affordable workforce options to market rate, luxury and senior housing, Woodlawn Central will support a diverse range of Black businesses, creators, innovators and residents with much-needed community assets that go far beyond new housing. Among the project’s most exciting offerings are planned spaces for businesses of every ilk, a 154-room hotel, a black box theater, a vertical greenhouse and a microgrid energy facility. Its retail, hospitality, cultural, service, tech and transit options have been planned to nurture Black-owned businesses and generate substantial employment opportunities for residents.

“Woodlawn Central is not a straightforward mixed-use development. It carries weight far beyond its physical parameters and economics. Our most important criteria in selecting Transwestern went beyond its deep expertise in real estate services. We also needed a partner that had an authentic, deeply rooted belief in the project,” Dr. Brazier, pastor of the Apostolic Church of God, explained.

“This is about more than building a one-off development, no matter how great it is. This is an opportunity to not only make a major impact on the surrounding communities and break negative social and economic cycles, but to also set an example for transformative, community generated development that can be repeated nationwide,” he continued.

“Transwestern is a values-based company that focuses on servicing and solving challenging issues and achieving optimal outcomes for our clients,” Griffin said. “We are looking forward to working with the Woodlawn Central LLC and a diverse, innovative team of architecture, engineering and construction professionals to create a wide range of sustainable economic development opportunities.”

“Because it’s been designed with extensive community engagement and broad-reaching, regenerative goals, Woodlawn Central is a unique and compelling project that will have significant impact beyond its boundaries and for generations to come,” Griffin added.

Woodlawn Central was designed to meet its communi-

ty’s wants and needs

Woodlawn Central has been intentionally designed with assets that have the potential to change the systemic inequities and economic blight that have plagued the neighborhood for decades. The 2022 Community Data Snapshot from the Chicago Metropolitan Planning Agency shows its residents are over 91% minority and its median and per capita household income numbers, $27,541 and $20,824 respectively, are among the lowest in the City, with medians that are $62,097 and $39,068 respectively. Woodlawn residents also have the City’s lowest median net worth among all 77 of Chicago’s community areas at $4,439 vs. the national median of $97,680.

The development was conceived of and planned under the aegis of Woodlawn’s Apostolic Church of God, which has over 20,000 members. Substantial input came from The Network of Woodlawn, which was founded in 2009 to improve the neighborhood’s quality of life by building infrastructure that supports better education, safety, health and economics.

“We based Woodlawn Central on the 2060 Woodlawn Community Plan for Urban Regeneration and Social Sustainability. It evolved from our work with The Network of Woodlawn over a three-year period, so we know it meets the community’s needs because there was such deep engagement from all quarters of Woodlawn,” J. Byron Brazier explained. “This is the first development to date that has been designed to offer a concrete, comprehensive and sustainable plan to spur exponential and ongoing economic development in Woodlawn.

“That’s why Woodlawn Central’s design incorporates technology, agriculture, retail, the visual and performing arts, and sustainability. It’s what the community said they wanted in the 2060 Plan. But most significantly, these are assets that set the stage for future neighborhood reinvestment,” J. Byron Brazier pointed out. “We want this to be a national model for the successful development of the Black community from the inside out, challenging the notion that gentrification is inevitable as urban places regenerate.”

SNOOP DOGG ANNOUNCES THE LAUNCH OF PREMIUM COFFEE BEVERAGE COMPANY INDOxyz

LOS ANGELES, PRNewswire -- Global music and cultural icon, Snoop Dogg announces the launch of INDOxyz, a premium lifestyle coffee brand created for and inspired by the next generation of entrepreneurs and innovators. The joint venture between Snoop and his co-founder Michael Riady brings together two of the most successful entrepreneurs in the United States and Indonesia.

INDOxyz joins an already impressive list of business enterprises helmed by Snoop and marks his first foray into the coffee industry as a brand owner.

“My relationship with coffee goes way back. The many long nights in the studio making hit after hit, coffee provided the fuel which kept us going. Today marks the launch of a new company I created along with my partner Michael, who introduced me to the best tasting Indonesian coffee. Indo is going to change the industry, I can promise you that,” states Snoop Dogg.

The journey to INDOxyz began following a chance meeting between Snoop and Michael during the height of the COVID pandemic. Both serial entrepreneurs, investors and creators, the powerful duo sought to create a brand inspired by the owner’s journey – the creative risk-takers and innovators who would become the architects of their own future and ours. INDOxyz was born out of their shared passion for fueling the people and ideas that move culture forward.

“I am excited to partner with Snoop Dogg and introduce the world to INDOxyz, the best tasting coffee on the market. I want to make coffee fun and cool and having Snoop as a partner gives us that edge. Beyond being a fan of his music, I’ve long admired Snoop for his hard work and business acumen. It’s been an incredible journey working with him and building this company, and I think that together we can make an impact in the industry with a brand that resonates with the next generation,” states co-founder Michael Riady.

INDOxyz is sourced directly from Michael’s homeland in Indonesia and grown by collective farmers on the islands of Sumatra, Java, Bali and Sulawesi. The green coffee beans are intentionally selected then shipped to Los Angeles, California where they are prepared by a master roaster inhouse, before they are brewed and packaged into the brand’s exclusive line of cold brew and whole bean coffee.

INDOxyz will launch with an exclusive and

MICHELLE SNEED

LAUNCHES A FEW GOOD WOMEN PRODUCTIONS

LOS ANGELES, PRNewswire -- Industry veteran and former president of Tyler Perry Studios Michelle Sneed, announces the launch of A Few Good Women Productions. As a full-service content studio combining the attributes of a traditional film studio with that of a production company, A Few Good Women Productions embraces projects driven by complex and dynamic characters who represent diverse people, places, cultures and concepts with the belief “that as long as there’s a great story and vision, we can make it come to life.” Led by an all-women team, A Few Good Women Productions is a first-of-its kind model with the ability to green light and maintain project autonomy through every phase of acquisition, development, financing, production, licensing and distribution.

“We’re building the space that we’ve always wanted to be a part of, where the most authentic, innovative, and diverse talents – both in front of and behind the camera – can shine and we, as a highly experienced all-women executive team can level the playing field by provisioning the deserved compensation, equity and credit currency for those who look like us and beyond,” said Michelle Sneed, Founder and CEO of A Few Good Women Productions. “The power to greenlight and underwrite diverse projects through a premium lens with high integrity deal making starts at the top and is mission critical to the future and standing of multicultural executives, creatives, producers and storytellers.”

Founder and CEO Michelle Sneed is a seasoned industry executive with over 17 years of experience in television and film production.

limited rollout starting in Snoop’s home state of California followed by Las Vegas, Nevada and then a national retail expansion. The cold brew beverage will retail starting at $5.99 and the whole bean will cost $17.99.

All products will be available at the online store www.indo.xyz, BevMo, GoPuff, Resorts World Casinos in Las Vegas and rolling out in the upcoming months at the following retailers: Erewhon, Vons, Pavilions, Albertsons, Safeway, Sprouts and Amazon.

To celebrate the launch, Snoop will introduce the “Owners Series”, an exclusive branded platform featuring in-depth interviews, behind-thescenes footage and video content highlighting his entrepreneurial journey. Additional founders and creators including music artist/actress Christina Milian and her partner Elizabeth Morris (Founders/owners, Beignet Box), Coco Vinny (founder, Coco Taps) and award-winning musician (Official DJ of the LA Chargers) will be featured in the series.

For more information on INDOxyz, please visit: https://www.indo.xyz/

As the first woman president of Tyler Perry Studios, Sneed oversaw production for all film, television and new media projects. During her tenure in this role, she led the launches of and executive produced several new series resulting in over 450 episodes of television as well as three feature films including the top-rated BET and BET+ series “Sistas, “The Oval,” “Ruthless,” “Bruh” and “All The Queen’s Men”; the Nickelodeon series “Young Dylan”; Netflix films “A Fall From Grace,” “A Madea Homecoming” and “A Jazzman’s Blues.” Prior to this, Sneed served as director of physical production for BET Networks where she oversaw and executed multiple scripted, docufilms and live shows including the coveted BET Awards and the critically acclaimed late night talk show, “The Rundown With Robin Thede.”

A graduate of Michigan State University, Sneed is a member of the Producers Guild of America and serves on the Board of Governors for the Paley Center as well as the Dream Chasers Foundation. She is also the recipient of the 2022 Girls With Gifts “Givers Award” and has been recognized multiple times by The Hollywood Reporter on their Women In Entertainment Power 100 list as well as Essence Magazine’s Black Women In Hollywood.

A Few Good Women Productions is a content studio and full-service production company specializing in the financing, development, production, licensing and distribution of premium content across film, television and new media platforms. True to its namesake, A Few Good Women Productions is led by a diverse executive leadership team who embrace projects driven by complex and dynamic characters that represent diverse people, places, cultures, and concepts.

For more information on A Few Good Women Productions, visit https://afewgoodwomen.com.

INDOxyz

Michelle Sneed, Founder and CEO, A Few Good Women Productions Photo Credit: Drea Nicole Photography.

THE CANDIDATE SPEAKS… Anthony McCaskill

Continued from page 3

Citizen Newspaper: How would you improve and expand public safety in the City of Harvey?

Harvey Mayoral Candidate Anthony McCaskill: By executive order I would eliminate the monthly $39,000 cost for private security for the mayor. I would rely on the same officers the public has to rely on, the local police. I’m confident the nearly half million dollars per year being used to protect the current mayor could be better used toward overall public safety. I would use the $39k per month to hire 6 new patrol offi cers to patrol the streets. I will eliminate overlapping top heavy administrative positions to add more street patrol. I will coordinate with neighboring communities to strategically identify the best ways to decrease crime across cities as opposed to participating in high-speed chases that result in the death of the subjects or innocent bystanders. Increasing lighting throughout the city especially in main thoroughfares and residential areas

Citizen Newspaper: What are some of the things you think could make Harvey more economically viable?

McCaskill: I will not take a salary. I will donate my salary to a water fund established to assist senior residents with their water bills. Beyond public safety, the number one thing would be to clean up. Beautician will make the city overall more viable and attractive to homeowners and business owners not only building a desire to come to our city but to stay and plant roots. I

Christopher J. Clark

manufacturing industries.

will work with the other government entities to collaborate procurement efforts and programming; eliminating repetitive and unnecessary expenses. Identify waste in the budget to align resources for the best outcomes (ie. paying down debt to free up funding to address pension and water bill shortages; hiring competent officers to reduce lawsuits). Analyzing the current budget and levy to ensure all available sources of income are accounted for. Decrease the number of legal entities with over inflated contracts placing those funds back into rotation. Those are a few things I believe could be done fairly quickly to stabilize the economic viability.

Citizen Newspaper: How would you bring more jobs and economic development to Harvey?

McCaskill: Work with local manufacturers to help identify how the city can assist with their business expansion. Working with large box companies to consider building up dormant and unincorporated land for distribution hubs. I would also be requesting meetings with the various rails that frequent Harvey to discuss local hiring and other options to provide employment. Bring in developers that are seeking to build with a set aside for minority, women-owned companies, veterans, local laborers, and unskilled residents. There will also be an aggressive employment effort for persons with challenged backgrounds. Being a transitional community the successful engagement of persons with barriers will not only support the work-

Continued from page 3

Under my leadership, we are working with our state legislators and University of Chicago at Ingalls to create a medical district similar to that in Chicago. This type of district will allow public, private, civic, university, health, financial, community and other partners to take advantage of financial incentives available in the district. Entrepreneurs and investors will have an opportunity to develop their business and provide housing by redeveloping our abandoned housing stock. It creates the perfect opportunity for high schools and junior colleges to develop curriculums and provide training for the employees of the future.

Citizen Newspaper: What ideas do you have to improve Harvey’s infrastructure?

Clark: We have already started repairing, refurbishing, and replacing over 2,000 streetlights to improve visibility throughout the city. We are also working with our County, State and Federal partners to bring financing opportunities to the city. We have secured approximately $90 million in state funds to totally repair Wood Street from 146th to 161st Street. The project will include not only a new street, but sidewalks, streetlights and a main sewer line to reduce area flooding. Under this administration we were awarded part of a $1.5 million federal grant from a collaboration between U.S. Senators Tammy Duckworth and Dick Durbin and the Metropolitan Water Reclamation District of Greater Chicago (MWRD) to mitigate flooding. We were also awarded $3 million in federal dollars from U.S. Senators Tammy Duckworth and Dick Durbin for water and sewer improvements.

Going forward we are working to shore up our main water supply lines to reduce breaks during the winter. Once we are able to re-enter the bond market, we intend to finance future street reconstruction and repair through bonds and financial assistance from our County,

State, and Federal partners.

Citizen Newspaper: Where do you stand on small business creation and more opportunities for small businesses in the City of Harvey to grow scale and be sustainable?

Clark: I have been leading economic development and working effectively to support our new and current small businesses and working to increase job creation in Harvey. My administration has welcomed new small businesses including but not limited to a restaurant, butcher shop and meat market, gas station-convenience store, an auto-parts supply store and a truck driving academy. We also brought J-J Fish, S2 Express Grill, Davita Kidney Dialysis, and Route-1 Industries. As we continue to support small businesses, our future projects include a self-service car wash, Burger King and the expansion and development of a full-service supermarket.

The development of a medical district will provide small businesses with an opportunity to provide goods and services. Entrepreneurs and investors will have an opportunity to develop their businesses and provide housing by redeveloping our abandoned housing stock.

We are also working to develop relationships and establish a Small Business Incubator. We realize that many small businesses and entrepreneurs need assistance securing funding, access to investors, mentorship, and business management strategies. Through these efforts, many small businesses increase their chances of success.

Citizen Newspaper: What are some things you would do to improve education and create pathways for youth employment?

Clark: As an attorney and businessman, education, business and employment are important to me. As a mayor, I am always interested in partnering with com-

force of the business owners but decrease the potential for distasteful behavior. Again, improving public safety.

Citizen Newspaper: What ideas to you have to improve Harvey’s infrastructure?

McCaskill: Water Reclamation. The agency will be held accountable for the deteriorating sewer infrastructure it has failed to address for decades. Banks and slumlords will be held accountable for dilapidated properties. They will be given an opportunity to restore or sell but houses will be placed back on tax roll and beautified.

Citizen Newspaper: Where do you stand on small business creation and more opportunities for small businesses in the City of Harvey to grow scale and be sustainable?

McCaskill: CBGs and other grants will be offered to support “purposeful” expansion. When a direct benefit to taxpayers can be demonstrated TIFF funds will be used.

Citizen Newspaper: What are some things you would do to improve education and create pathways for youth employment?

McCaskill: Bridge the relationships diminished by the current administration with local businesses and local/other government entities; and work directly and collaboratively with park, school, and library district officials as well as other local resources to address employment education and placement. We are stronger together and my priority will be to increase access to opportunities for all residents especially our youth. My wife Dr. Kisha E. McCaskill and I pride ourselves on the love we have shown to the youth of our community.

munity-based organizations and businesses to create youth employment opportunities. We will continue to work with our County, State, and Federal partners to provide new opportunities and funding for projects that will provide hands-on experiences for our youth.

On a local level, we will establish the Department of Youth Engagement to address youth issues including but not limited to employment. As a part of this department, we will approach our local high school about the possibility of collaborating with their programs such as NFTE or DECA to provide pathways to entrepreneurship, leadership, and financial literacy. We will also collaborate with our local junior college to provide opportunities for education in trades. Our slogan, “Trucks, Trains and Technology”, reflects the many trades that are important to developing and maintaining this robust part of our future economy.

The development of a medical district provides STEM educated students the opportunity for youth mentorship and employment in the public, private, civic, university, health, financial arena. This is a conduit to future entrepreneurship and business ownership.

Mentorship and relationship building are key components to improving education and creating pathways for youth employment. As such, we intend on joining established organizations such as the Chicago Southland Chamber of Commerce, creating relationships with local businesses and reaching out to others in an effort to develop relationships and youth opportunities. Our youth can gain an opportunity to learn the necessary skills for future employment.

These types of collaboration not only provide the possibility of youth employment, but are the tools for becoming a positive contributing part of society and the Harvey community.

PROSTATE CANCER FOUNDATION-FUNDED GENETIC STUDY OF MEN OF AFRICAN ANCESTRY FINDS NEW RISK FACTORS FOR PROSTATE CANCER

LOS ANGELES, PRNewswire -- One in six Black men in the United States will be diagnosed with prostate cancer in his lifetime versus one in eight white men. Black men are more likely to be diagnosed at a younger age, with more aggressive disease, and are more than twice as likely to die of prostate cancer. New findings from Prostate Cancer Foundation (PCF)-funded investigators shed light on the genetic underpinnings of this racial disparity and point the way toward more effective screening strategies.

Studies have identified close to 270 genetic variants linked to prostate cancer risk, but genetic researchers have yet to explain the disproportionate risk among men of African ancestry. Nor have they been able to predict which Black men face a high risk for aggressive prostate cancer.

To address these questions, Christopher Haiman, ScD, director of the Center for Genetic Epidemiology at the Keck School of Medicine of USC and AFLAC Chair of Cancer Research at the USC Norris Comprehensive Cancer Center, led a meta-analysis of 10 genome-wide association studies pooling data representing more than 80,000 men of African ancestry (19,378 men with prostate cancer and 61,620 healthy controls) collected in the U.S., Africa and the Caribbean.

The researchers found nine previously undiscovered genetic variants that increased the risk for prostate cancer in men of African ancestry, seven of which are found either largely or exclusively in Black men. One new variant in the 8q24 region, long known to influence prostate cancer risk, is found

only in men of African ancestry. This variant influences the risk of higher rates of aggressive disease among Black men, researchers concluded. They also showed that a multiancestry polygenic risk score was able to differentiate between the risks of developing aggressive and nonaggressive prostate cancer in men of African ancestry. Their study was published March 3 in the peer reviewed journal European Urology.

The newly identified variants can be used to refine polygenic risk scores, genetic tests that assess a person’s risk for developing a condition based on the combined influence of multiple genetic factors and can help patients decide how early and often to get screened.

“Addressing African American disparity in prostate cancer is a critical focus for the Prostate Cancer Foundation and we congratulate Dr. Haiman and colleagues on their findings which will lead to more effective precision screening strategies for men of African ancestry,” said PCF President and CEO Charles J. Ryan, MD. “Through the Robert F. SmithPCF Special Challenge Award for the Smith Polygenic Risk Test, we are proud to invest in the vital work of Dr. Haiman and all of the RESPOND investigators to understand and address the reasons why Black men disproportionately experience aggressive prostate cancer.”

Haiman and collaborators study prostate cancer among Black men through the $26.5 million, multi-center RESPOND (Research on Prostate Cancer in African American Men: Defining the Roles of Genetics, Tumor Markers and Social Stress) study, funded by the PCF, the National Cancer Institute, and

the National Institute on Minority Health and Health Disparities. This work is ongoing, including research into how social determinants, access to care, genetics, and tumor characteristics affect prostate cancer diagnosis, progression, recurrence and survival rates.

With funding support from PCF and Robert F. Smith, Haiman and colleagues also are working to develop the Smith Polygenic Risk Test for Prostate Cancer, a non-invasive, early detection test that will identify a man’s lifetime prostate cancer risk using a combination of the nearly 270 genetic variants obtained from a single sample of saliva or blood.

“The results of this research will markedly change the ways physicians test for prostate cancer. We now have the ability to identify at-risk men before they develop the disease and proactively implement the most effective preventive measures and treatments,” said Robert F. Smith, Founder, Chairman and CEO of Vista Equity Partners. “We must continue to make investments in health equity research and transform prostate cancer from a life-altering diagnosis into a manageable condition.”

Since its founding in 1993, PCF has invested over $30 million in health disparities research through 48 different research programs with more than 20 institutional collaborators.

The Prostate Cancer Foundation (PCF) is the world’s leading philanthropic organization dedicated to funding life-saving prostate cancer research. Founded in 1993 by Mike Milken, PCF has been responsible for raising close to $1 billion in support of cutting-edge research by more than 2,250 research projects at 245 leading cancer centers in 28 countries around the world. Since PCF’s inception, and through its efforts, patients around the world are living longer, suffering fewer complications, and enjoying better quality of life. PCF is committed to creating a global public square for prostate cancer, in service to our mission of ending death and suffering from the disease. Learn more at pcf.org.

New American Lung Association Research Institute to Accelerate High Impact, Lifesaving Lung Health Science

CHICAGO, PRNewswire -- More than 34 million Americans live with lung disease. When combined with lung cancer and respiratory diseases like COVID-19 and influenza, lung disease is a leading cause of death in America. To address urgent and critical lung health challenges in our country, the American Lung Association today announced the launch of the American Lung Association Research Institute.

“Lung disease is a critical health challenge in America, and we must take action to address it. The American Lung Association Research Institute is our answer to this challenge, and we are committed to investing in research, collaborating with experts and empowering scientists to accelerate discovery and innovation,” said Harold Wimmer, President and CEO of the American Lung Association. “The Lung Association has long been the trusted champion of lung health research, and the new Research Institute will take our work to end lung disease to the next level.”

The new American Lung Association Research

Institute will:

Increase Research Investment through the organization’s Awards and Grants program to $25 million per year by 2030.

Expand Clinical Research in asthma and COPD throughout its nationwide Airways Clinical Research Centers, while working with an impressive bandwidth of experts to produce results directly impacting patient care.

Convene Scientists and Funded Researchers for whitepapers, roundtables and collaboration. The Research Institute will also host conferences for the research team, principal investigators and lung health associates to address the most pressing issues in lung health.

Collaborate with government and non-profits and co-invest with private industry to dramatically accelerate lung health discovery and innovation.

The Research Institute is governed by the Scientific Advisory Committee, a committee of the National Board

of Directors, which includes the top experts in research and lung health from across the country. A new subcommittee of the Scientific Advisory Committee will explore partnership programs and collaboration opportunities for the American Lung Association Research Institute.

For more information about the American Lung Association Research Institute, visit Lung.org/Research.

The American Lung Association is the leading organization working to save lives by improving lung health and preventing lung disease through education, advocacy and research. The work of the American Lung Association is focused on four strategic imperatives: to defeat lung cancer; to champion clean air for all; to improve the quality of life for those with lung disease and their families; and to create a tobacco-free future. For more information about the American Lung Association, which has a 4-star rating from Charity Navigator and is a Platinum-Level GuideStar Member, or to support the work it does, call 1-800-LUNGUSA (1-800-586-4872) or visit: Lung.org.

b. If you have more than one address where Defendant/Respondent might be found, list that

LEGAL NOTICE/

NOTICE

c.

much aid as they expected, and 74% said they found the expected family contribution surprisingly high. Colatriano also notes that because the layout of these letters varies from school to school, it can be hard to compare their terms. To help you decipher your financial aid award letters and figure out how to pay for college this fall, consider these tips and insights:

3.

2.

Amount claimed: $14,750.00

4. Instructions for person receiving this summons (Defendant):

a. To respond to this Summons, you must file Appearance and Answer/Response forms with the court within 30 days after you hav3e been served (not counting the day of service) by e-filling or at: Address: _____________________________ City, State, Zip: ________________________

b. Attend court: _________________________ On: 4-6-2023 at 10:00 a.m. in courtroom# 208

In-Person at: 16507 KEDZIE AVE., MARKHAM, ILLINOIS 60428 Witness this date: FEB 17, 2023 CLERK OF COURT: IRIS Y. MARTINEZ STATE OF ILLINOIS, CIRCUIT COURT COOK COUNTY PROOF OF SERVICE OR SUMMONS AND COMPLAINT/PETITION

PLAINTIFF/PETITIONER: MICHAEL OUTLEY

V. BRIAN MILLER & SHARI MILLER CASE NUMBER: 22M6002659

ALIAS SUMMONS

Notice is hereby given, pursuant to ..An Act in relation to the use of an Assumed Business Name in the conduct or transaction of Business in the State,..as amended, that a certification was registered by the undersigned with the County Clerk of Cook County. Registration Number: Y23010348 on March 21, 2023 Under the Assumed Business Name of GOLDEN TOUCH CLEANING SERVICE with the business located at: 3751 S LANGLEY AVE APT 102, CHICAGO, IL 60653 The true and real full name(s) and residence address of the owner(s)/partner(s) is: Owner/Partner Full Name Complete Address SANDRA FRANKLIN 3751 S LANGLEY AVE APT 102 CHICAGO, IL 60653, USA

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Making Sense of College Costs and Financial Aid

(StatePoint) That moment when your child receives an acceptance letter to a coveted college is a time to feel pride in their achievements and excited about their future. It’s also a time to make sense of the school’s price tag. That’s where financial award letters come into play.

“You’ll receive an award letter from

1. Sort grants and scholarships from other aid: If your child was awarded a federal grant or scholarships from the college, they will be listed on your award letter. These do not need to be repaid and are applied directly to the school’s tuition. You can also pursue outside scholarships. One easy one to apply for is the College Ave $1,000 monthly scholarship sweepstakes. Encourage your student to apply for scholarships year-round, as every little bit helps.

2. Delve into federal aid: The award letters will show you if your student qualified for the Federal Work-Study program. Likewise, schools will list any federal student loans you’re eligible to receive. Don’t forget to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) each year to qualify.

3. Meet the gap: If after accounting for grants, scholarships and federal aid there is still a gap between school costs and what you can afford, consider how you can reduce costs or get more funding. For example, you may reconsider your choice of school or have your student take on

a part-time job. You might also want to shop around for a private student loan. If you do so, make sure you borrow only what you need. Also, look for a lender offering favorable terms, repayment options and interest rates. College Ave Student Loans offers resources to help you navigate paying for college, including a student loan calculator to show what your monthly payments could look like. To learn more, visit CollegeAve.com.

4. Look before you leap: Remember that most types of financial aid come with terms and conditions. For example, a scholarship may require a student to maintain a certain GPA for it to be renewed the following semester. Federal and private loans will have interest rates and repayment terms. Before accepting or pursuing any type of financial aid, be sure you understand what’s involved.

5. Get assistance: When in doubt, don’t be afraid to reach out to your school’s financial aid office for assistance. They are a great resource to help you and your family navigate the financial aid process.

“With so many competing financial pressures, it’s more important than ever for college-bound families to understand the ins and outs of their financial aid offers and what they’re responsible to cover each year,” says Colatriano.

Everyday dedication meets everyday appreciation

We celebrate the commitment of our employees with initiatives like Sharing Success, which awarded 96% of colleagues additional compensation this year, nearly all in stock. This is the sixth time teammates received this award, totaling more than $4 billion.

Rita Sola Cook President, Bank of America Chicago

We are committed to being a Great Place to Work for our teammates in Chicago and around the globe. This includes providing leading benefits, minimum wage at $22/hr on track to $25/hr by 2025 and opportunities to build a career with us. These are key reasons we’ve been named America’s Most JUST Company. Go

What would you like the power to do?®