South Suburban Citizen 5-22-2024

IL STATE REP. KIM DU BUCLET ENCOURAGES RESIDENTS TO COMPLETE HER ANNUAL COMMUNITY SURVEY

CHICAGO –State Rep. Kimberly DuBuclet, D-Chicago, is inviting residents to complete an online community survey to solicit feedback to help her craft legislation and policies better tailored to the interests of the community. The survey can be completed at https://shorturl.at/rwyLZ.

“It is important to always include the people we serve when making decisions that ultimately affect them the most,” DuBuclet said. “The will of the people is the foundation of any democracy, and it’s critical that we elected officials provide outlets - whether it’s town hall meetings, surveys or even suggestion boxes, to get that feedback from our citizens.”

This year Illinois State Rep. DuBuclet has worked to advance a number of new bills to protect natural resources, strengthen utility access, and provide for youth in care, including:

House Bill 5097: Requiring caseworkers to work with foster parents and foster children to create a haircare plan that is mindful of various factors such as the child’s race, culture, and identity.

House Bill 5421: Requires the Illinois EPA and relevant municipalities to enhance monitoring of Lake Michigan’s water quality and contamination levels.

House Bill 4783: Gives the Metropolitan Water Reclamation District (MWRD) more flexibility to respond to emergencies.

House Bill 4784: Simplifies the process of obtaining disability benefits for MWRD employees.

ILLINOIS STATE TREASURER MICHAEL FRERICHS RETURNS MORE THAN $20 MILLION TO ILLINOIS RESIDENTS IN APRIL

SPRINGFIELD – Illinois State Treasurer Michael Frerichs returned more than $20.6 million to Illinois residents during April through the state’s missing money program called I-Cash.

The total includes nearly $19.7 million in cash and interest and nearly $955,000 in stock value. All told, the State Treasurer’s Office returned missing money to 16,622 people in April.

So far in 2024, the Illinois State Treasurer’s Office has returned nearly $77.3 million to 73,659 people.

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

The Illinois State Treasurer’s Office has returned nearly $2 billion during Frerichs’ time in office. When Frerichs first became treasurer, there were 60,000 claims paid in a year. Today, more than 200,000 claims are paid each year.

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

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

The Illinois State Treasurer’s Office recommends that people check for missing money at least twice each year. You can check icash. illinoistreasurer.gov to see if missing money is waiting for you.

For more news about the State Treasurer’s Office, please follow Treasurer Frerichs on X (formerly Twitter) at @ILTreasurer, Threads @ iltreasurer, Instagram at ILTreasurer, LinkedIn and on Facebook at Invested in You – Treasurer Michael Frerichs.

Harvey Neighborhood Network Is Working To Improve The Community

Continued from page 1

BY TIA CAROL JONES

The Harvey Neighborhood Network was launched in 2023, with the support of the United Way of Metro Chicago and the Transforming Places project of Cook County. Its goal is to collaborate with community members to come up with strategies that will improve the community. A steering committee of people from nonprofit organizations, large and small businesses, healthcare, faith communities and publicly funded agencies meet once a month to carry out the network’s mission.

The Neighborhood Network model is new to the Southland and the Harvey Neighborhood Network is one of six. The selection of the locations is based on needs and what was going on in these communities, along with the ability for those communities to sustain a network.

Monica Regan is the Harvey Neighborhood Network Coordinator based at Restoration Ministries, Inc., and Machelle Anderson is the Harvey Neighborhood Network Coordinator based at CEDA Harvey.

“The network is an initiative that empowers residents and organizations to work together on issues that are unique to each community, so no community network will look the same as the other because it’s all based on what your individual needs are in your community,” Anderson said.

The Harvey Neighborhood Network has four impact areas: Violence prevention and intervention, workforce development and employer responsibility, economic mobility and sustainability and holistic health and wellness. The steering committee uses data collected from

various organizational needs assessments. The University of Chicago-Ingalls, CEDA and Restoration Ministries all completed needs assessments. The information from all the assessments aligned so the next steps in the process involved creating impact areas. The subcommittees include organizations that came together around those impact areas to discuss pilot programs and resources that would benefit the community.

The Harvey Neighborhood Network is not trying to re-invent the wheel, but it is providing resources to the community. One of the pilot programs is summer programs for local elementary schools.

“We asked them what their needs are and how we could support a pilot program this summer. The idea is not to tell the community what the community needs but ask how we can support what is already going on so it can be better,” said Regan.

The goal of the summer program is to make summer school better and that students who need extra help can go into the next school year and be more successful. The Harvey Neighborhood Network is also hosting pop-up health and wellness events. A big need for the community is a community center with a gymnasium and exercise equipment. The Harvey Neighborhood Network is also working with the Illinois Department of Employment Security to restart some of their initiatives around workforce development.

“Again, it’s never our intention to step on anybody’s toes or duplicate efforts, we just want to pool resources and get those resources into the hands of the community,” Anderson said.

For more information about the Harvey Neighborhood Network, visit harveyneighborhoodnetwork.org.

CRETE-MONEE HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS RECEIVED $52K IN SCHOLARSHIPS AWARDED

BY

1-800-TRUCKWRECK

AHEAD OF MOTHER’S DAY WEEKEND

CHICAGO -- 1-800-TruckWreck, powered by Witherite Law Group, presented more than $52,000 in scholarships to students of Crete-Monee High School on Thursday, May 9. Twenty-one high school seniors each received a $2,500 scholarship to help fund their college education this fall.

“Student loan debt has been and continues to be an incredible burden on youth in America who are working to pursue higher education,” said Amy Witherite, owner of Witherite Law Group and 1-800-TruckWreck. “For some, they choose not to attend college at all because the financial requirement is too great. We hope these scholarships help alleviate some of that burden and support students that deserve this award through the hard work they have showcased.”

The scholarship award ceremony took place at CreteMonee High School (1515 Exchange Street, Crete, IL 60417) on Thursday, May 9, at 6:00 p.m. in advance of Mother’s Day weekend.

Maya Hightower, Director of Community Relations for Witherite Law Group and a graduate of Crete-Monee High School, presented the awards along with school representatives such as Mr. Lamont Holifield, Principal; Ms. Chemaine Carr, Associate Principal; Ms. Jennifer Hannagan, Assistant Principal; and the high school’s counseling department.

The names of the 21 scholarship recipients and their intended universities are as follows:

Erin Ababio-Twi, University of Illinois – Chicago

Kimora Alexander, Howard University

Elijah Ayers, Governors’ State University

Vontrez Banks, Illinois State University

Natalia Barbosa, University of Illinois Urbana Champaign

Derrion Beard, Illinois State University

Kaycee Berkley, University of Illinois Urbana Champaign

Aniyah Boatright, Southern Illinois University

Kimora Brodanex, Florida A&M University

Cynthia Cairo, Vander Cook College of Music

Carl-Jorell Fulgencio, Ball State University

Morgan Gillespie, Eastern Illinois University

Jerilyn E. Hale, William Penn University

LaNiya Houzah, Loyola University Chicago

Josiah Irvin, Alabama A&M University

Jaden Jeune, Prairie State University

Sukiya Jones, Lemoyne Owen College

Mikayla McNutt, University of Illinois – Chicago

Khaliah Mitchell, Clark Atlanta University

Trinity Watts, Olivet Nazarene University

Christal Williams, Northern Illinois University

According to Bankrate, 51% of people who drop out of college do so for financial reasons, and first-generation college students have a 92.2% higher dropout rate than students with parents who completed a bachelor’s program or above. In 2024, 1-800-TruckWreck is awarding over $117,500 in scholarships to students in the Chicagoland area to help reverse those statistics.

These scholarships are part of a larger initiative started by 1-800-TruckWreck to give back to the Chicago-area community since establishing a new office in the city in 2023. Amy Witherite, owner of 1-800-TruckWreck, has been awarding scholarships in the Atlanta and Dallas-Fort Worth communities since 2014 to support the futures of ambitious, hardworking students.

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

Gov. Pritzker Announces Successful Medicaid Redetermination Effort

CHICAGO – Governor JB Pritzker joined Department of Healthcare and Family Services (HFS) Director Lizzy Whitehorn, Department of Human Services (DHS) Secretary Dulce Quintero, and other leaders today to celebrate the success of the campaign to keep eligible Medicaid customers enrolled in coverage during the yearlong unwinding from the federal Continuous Medicaid Coverage Requirement.

During this yearlong process, nearly 3.8 million individual Illinois Medicaid customers went through care redeterminations for the first time since March 2020. Redeterminations are an annual verification to ensure customers remain eligible for Medicaid benefits before their coverage is renewed for the next year.

Throughout this unwinding process, Illinois has consistently been among the leading states in its effort to keep eligible customers enrolled in Medicaid. Roughly 73% of Illinois Medicaid customers

have retained their coverage throughout this process according to the latest data available from HFS, which administers the Illinois Medicaid program.

HFS implemented multiple flexibilities during the unwinding aimed at keeping Medicaid customers enrolled and will make some of those flexibilities permanent to make renewing coverage easier for customers on an ongoing basis.

“Medicaid is an essential service for millions of Illinoisans, and the priority of the state was ensuring as few customers as possible lost coverage because of lack of awareness or procedural support—a goal I’m proud to say we have achieved,” said Governor JB Pritzker. “I’m grateful to staff at HFS and DHS for their tireless work and creative approach to addressing this challenge and keeping the people of Illinois covered, healthy, and safe.”

ing their income for Medicaid eligibility purposes, by comparing a customer’s self-reported income with information available from other sources, such as IRS data and quarterly wage reports. When the Department implemented this flexibility, it was an increase from 5% to 30%.

In order to address the challenge of raising customer awareness about redeterminations re-starting after three years, HFS launched the yearlong statewide multilingual ‘Ready to Renew’ outreach and advertising campaign in May 2023. The campaign was targeted to reach Medicaid customers to inform them about the steps they needed to take to renew their coverage, aiming to avoid any eligible customers losing their coverage for not submitting their paperwork in a timely and accurate fashion.

The Alzheimer’s Association to Host First Responder Conference to teach Emergency Personnel Essential Skills

“From the beginning of Illinois’ unwinding from the Continuous Medicaid Coverage requirement, our top priority has been preserving coverage for eligible customers. We’ve conducted an aggressive outreach campaign and implemented multiple flexibilities to keep as many people covered as possible, and I’m excited to announce today that we’re making some of those flexibilities permanent,” HFS Director Elizabeth M. Whitehorn said. “I want to recognize and thank HFS’ dedicated staff for their deep commitment to the millions of Medicaid customers across the state.”

“Our IDHS caseworkers are on the front lines of this issue, connecting individuals and families with programs like Medicaid, which enhance their daily lives and well-being. We are proud to continue this work with our sister agency, HFS, as we meet people where they are at and address their most emergent needs, such as health care – which is a human right,” said IDHS Secretary Designate, Dulce M. Quintero.

HFS and the Medicaid Managed Care Organizations (MCOs) also increased the direct outreach to customers reminding them that redetermination was coming due and encouraging them to respond before their due date.

During the unwinding period, HFS delayed procedural Medicaid disenrollments by one month for customers who did not return their redetermination by their due date or did not provide additional information needed to verify their eligibility. During this onemonth grace period for customers, HFS conducted additional direct outreach, including a courtesy follow-up letter, to encourage customers to submit their redetermination to the state.

As of HFS’ most recent redetermination progress report, 3,274,184 redeterminations representing 87% of the total required to be conducted have been completed. An additional 85,675 redeterminations have been received and are pending processing by the state.

To further its mission of raising awareness and providing support, the Alzheimer’s Association Illinois Chapter will host “Navigating Alzheimer’s & Dementia: A Conference for First Responders” on Wednesday, June 5, 2024. This conference will bring together industry experts and passionate individuals to share knowledge, best practices, and cutting-edge research about Alzheimer’s disease, prevention, and care with our state’s First Responders. First responders will gain invaluable tools, insights, and strategies to enhance their understanding and approaches when dealing with Alzheimer ‘s-related emergencies.

Alzheimer’s disease causes people to lose their ability to recognize familiar places and faces. It’s common for a person living with dementia to wander or become lost or confused about their location, and it can happen at any stage of the disease. Six in 10 people living with dementia will wander at least once; many do so repeatedly. Although common, wandering can be dangerous — even life-threatening — and the stress of this risk weighs heavily on caregivers and family. When individuals with dementia are lost, they may show signs of anxiety, fear, or hostility — all of which can escalate to more aggressive behaviors. As the disease progresses and individuals with dementia forget family members and societal norms, there may be cases of false reports and victimization, indecent exposure, and shoplifting. Therefore, it is important that first responders understand proper tactics to use when in these situations.

In 2016, the Illinois Silver Search program was launched and has since bolstered public awareness and provided vital resources for law enforcement when individuals with Alzheimer’s disease, related dementias, or cognitive impairments are reported missing. Silver Search has been a beacon of hope for families and communities across Illinois. As of today, 733 advisories have been issued since 2014.

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

The federal Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services also announced last week that it is extending through June 2025 a flexibility that broadens states’ ability to conduct ex parte redeterminations for certain populations, including zero income customers. Ex parte redeterminations are automatic renewals that can be done in cases where there is enough state and federal data available to confirm a customer’s eligibility before they are asked to complete renewal paperwork.

At the beginning of the federal COVID-19 public health emergency, the federal government implemented the Continuous Medicaid Coverage Requirement, which directed states to cease conducting redeterminations. The federal government ended the Continuous Coverage Requirement on March 31, 2023, prompting state Medicaid programs to return to the standard practice of conducting annual redeterminations.

HFS will continue accepting customer attestation for income and insured status in instances where electronic verification is unavailable. HFS will also keep the reasonable compatibility threshold at 30%. Reasonable compatibility is a check to ensure that a customer is correctly report-

According to a Kaiser state redetermination data tracker, Illinois is among the 10 states with the lowest percentage of customers terminated for procedural reasons, such as unsubmitted redetermination forms or lack of a response to a request for more information to verify eligibility before the deadline. HFS is now returning to the regular practice of conducting redeterminations annually for all Medicaid customers in the state.

The Illinois Department of Human Services (IDHS), which assists Illinois Medicaid customers with their medical benefits, implemented text messaging capabilities and launched a redetermination texting campaign, reminding customers to update their address on file with the state and of their upcoming due dates.

IDHS also created a medical redetermination queue within the IDHS Help Line, which was among the improvements to enhance recognition of when a caller’s redetermination is due. This was coupled with guided questions targeted to help customers complete their redetermination over the phone. Since May 2023, IDHS has taken 78,403 medical redetermination phone calls.

Through the Illinois State Police Law Enforcement Agencies Data System (LEADS), reports of missing persons are swiftly disseminated, ensuring a coordinated response to high-risk missing person cases. The Endangered Missing Person Advisory serves as a lifeline for local law enforcement to request public notices when individuals facing high-risk situations go missing.

The Silver Search Task Force continues to disseminate critical information through various channels, including social media, radio, television, and digital displays on lottery terminals and interstate message boards. By harnessing the power of technology and comprehensive training programs, the task force empowers communities and enhances public awareness of the Silver Search process.

In collaboration with the Illinois Lottery and the Illinois Department of Transportation, the Silver Search program has expanded its reach through digital displays on lottery terminals and message boards over Illinois interstates and tollways. These partnerships have been instrumental in increasing public awareness and maximizing search efforts.

“When a loved one goes missing, time is of the essence. It is imperative that you contact your local law enforcement agency immediately. Law enforcement utilizes many tools to locate a high risk missing person including the activation of the Endangered Missing Person Advisory. The hope is using the eyes and ears of the public to help return the endangered person home safely.” said Craig Burge, Silver Search Coordinator, Illinois State Police.

Maximizing Your Bank Branch Experience

SPONSORED BY JPMORGAN CASE & CO.

In a world of online tools that let you make banking transactions with the touch of a button, the idea of visiting a branch might seem unnecessary.

However, if you haven’t visited your local branch recently, you might be surprised by what it has to offer. Your branch is much more than a place to deposit and withdraw money – it can offer the opportunity to build valuable relationships with people who can help you achieve financial independence.

Diedra Porché, Head of Community and Business Development at Chase, talks about how the bank model has evolved to maximize the branch experience for customers; how connecting with your local branch team can help you think differently about money and investing for your future.

Q: How can a customer feel connected to a bank branch?

I love that question because we ask ourselves the same thing every day. Being part of the community means meeting with local leaders to find out what they need from us and then designing our branches around that. For example, at some of our community branches we have what we call a living room where we can host financial workshops, small business pop-up shops or nonprofit organization meetings. We also hire locally. You feel much more connected talking about financial aspirations with people from your community who went to the same high school, place of worship or maybe frequented the same recreation center down the street when they grew up.

Q: How can I build a relationship with my bank?

Customers should feel comfortable sharing their goals, needs and wants with their banker. You might

have a short-term or long-term goal to open a business, build your credit, become debt-free, buy a home, or save for retirement, and our community team can help. At Chase, we strive to make dreams possible for everyone, everywhere, every day. Your financial future starts with building those relationships.

Q: How can customers change negative perceptions they have about managing their money?

Far too often, customers are intimidated when they visit a bank. Our goal is to demystify banking and money myths empowering people to make the right decisions. For example, a big myth is assuming you need a lot of money to have a bank account. You don’t! Another myth is you need to carry a balance on your credit card to build credit -- actively using your credit card can demonstrate that you can use credit responsibly, but carrying a balance won’t necessarily improve your credit score. Finally, having an understanding of mobile and online banking safety is key. There are so many safeguards and protections in place to guard your personal information and funds.

Q: What’s an easy step one can take to shift their financial behavior right now?

Cultivating self-awareness is a good first step. Start by taking inventory of your spending. Be honest with yourself about what you need and

what you want. Too often, people confuse the two, which leads to bad decisions. Rent is something you need to pay. An extra pair of shoes is something you may want but before you buy them ask yourself if that’s the best use of your hard earned money. Too often, our beliefs and our fears shape our financial realities. If any of those beliefs are limiting your financial behavior, it’s important to question and examine them, and then decide you’re open to learning something different.

Q: What’s one perception about banking that you’d like to change?

I think folks are surprised there are so many resources available and accessible both at our branches and online, it’s always a good idea to visit a nearby branch and speak to a Community Manager or banker. Outside of what we offer inbranch, our teams also work with local neighborhood partners who provide a variety of services to support the community, businesses and residents. I had a unique piece of feedback from an employee who started with the bank and had lived in the same community his whole life. When he visited his local community branch, he said, “Diedra, when I walked in, I felt dignified.” Every time I recount that story, it warms my heart because that’s what we want -- we want our centers to belong to the community.

For more information visit chase.com/branch

The Cigna Group Ranks No. 7 in Fair360 Top 50 Companies

BLOOMFIELD, Conn., PRNewswire -- Global health company The Cigna Group (NYSE: CI) announced today that it is No. 7 on Fair360’s 2024 Top 50 Companies – seven spots higher than last year’s ranking –demonstrating The Cigna Group’s long-standing and deep commitment to equal opportunity for all. Fair360 announced its 2024 Top 50 honorees this week, recognizing The Cigna Group for its workplace practices, philanthropy, leadership accountability, supplier fairness, human capital, and talent programs.

“This recognition is a testament to our continued dedication to fostering vitality and well-being within our workforce for all of those we work alongside, and within our communities for those we serve. We’re committed to valuing our stakeholders’ diverse backgrounds, perspectives, needs, and experiences, which supports better decision-making, greater innovation, and higher levels of engagement,” said Geneva Brown, vice president of Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) and Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) at The Cigna Group. “We are proud of our progress and recognize there is always more work that can be done to make our business and the

world more inclusive and equitable.”

The Fair360 Top 50 Companies list recognizes large U.S. employers that model fairness in their talent strategies, workplace and supplier diversity practices, and

vice president of Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG)

inclusion, enabling better innovation, and creating solutions to deliver on our mission. This includes:

philanthropic engagement. This year, 160 employers with a total of about 7.3 million U.S. employees submitted data and metrics for the survey.

“I’m delighted to recognize the companies on the Top 50 list for their ongoing commitment to workplace fairness,” said Luke Visconti, founder and chairman of Fair360. “The data shows that over the long term, companies that consistently put their employees first and have strong track records of respecting and embracing diversity, equity, and inclusion are stronger performers and better equipped to adapt to market conditions.”

The Cigna Group works to bolster the vitality of its workforce and the communities it serves by fostering

Increasing supplier diversity: Late last year, The Cigna Group surpassed its goal of $1 billion in annual spending with small and diverse businesses in the United States by roughly $400 million, about 2 years ahead of schedule. The Cigna Group has expanded its commitment to spend even more with diverse suppliers: $1.6 billion annually in 2025. Building healthier communities: The Cigna Group remains committed to improving the health and vitality of the communities it serves through charitable giving. The company recently announced a multiyear philanthropic and community engagement initiative focused on youth mental health, housing stability for veterans, and health equity. As part of this initiative, The Cigna Group Foundation will provide $27 million in grants to nonprofit organizations over the next 3 years, prioritizing grants in regions where The Cigna Group serves a significant number of customers with high and very high social determinant of health risks.

The Cigna Group (NYSE:CI) is a global health company committed to creating a better future built on the vitality of every individual and every community. We relentlessly challenge ourselves to partner and innovate solutions for better health. The Cigna Group includes products and services marketed under Cigna Healthcare, Evernorth Health Services, or its subsidiaries. The Cigna Group maintains sales capabilities in more than 30 countries and jurisdictions and has more than 187 million customer relationships around the world. Learn more at thecignagroup.com.

Geneva Brown,

and Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) at The Cigna Group. PRNEWSFOTO/THE CIGNA GROUP.

Diedra Porché

GAP INC. CREATIVE DIRECTOR ZAC POSEN

UNVEILS CUSTOM GAP

GOWN FOR DA’VINE JOY RANDOLPH AT THE MET GALA

SAN FRANCISCO, PRNewswire -- At this year’s Met Gala, Zac Posen, Executive Vice President & Creative Director of Gap Inc., and Chief Creative Officer of Old Navy, unveils a one-of-a-kind, custom Gap gown for Oscar® Award-Winning actor, Da’Vine Joy Randolph. Since his appointment to his new role in February, Posen has focused on serving as a cultural curator and further igniting creativity across the Gap Inc. portfolio, which includes Old Navy, Gap, Banana Republic and Athleta.

“I’m proud to represent Gap Inc. – a portfolio of iconic American brands – on a world stage like the Met Gala, where fashion meets entertainment to shape the cultural conversation,” said Zac Posen, Executive Vice President and Creative Director of Gap Inc.

Drawing inspiration from themes of romanticism, nature, and historic icons, Posen embarked on a journey of creative exploration to craft a custom denim gown made exclusively for Da’Vine Joy Randolph. Leveraging Gap’s denim experts, Posen meticulously draped and constructed a gown that pays homage to Gap’s classic 1969 denim, while incorporating elements reminiscent of historic evening wear from the 1700s.

“Throughout the creative process, I was reminded of my time at The Costume Institute, where I first encountered the exquisite beauty of historic garments,” said Posen. “This dress is a tribute to the elegance, glamour and drama, which embodies the timeless allure of Da’Vine Joy Randolph, a true original in her craft and in her style.”

Inspired by San Francisco and the view from the Gap Inc. headquarters, the gown’s bold “international red” lining echoes the oxidized pigment of San Francisco’s Golden Gate Bridge, while its aquatic and shell-like forms evoke the movement of water through its rich indigo denim wash. Also influenced by JG Ballard’s timeless tale, “The Garden of Time,” Posen masterfully blends heritage with modernity, juxtaposing the structure of Gap denim with the delicate silhouette of 18th century gowns.

“With this Gap gown, I’ve fallen back in love with denim,” said Da’Vine Joy Randolph. “I feel powerful. It makes me feel very feminine, but in a way that I can identify with - through strength, power, and resilience.”

The Gap brand, known for celebrating originality and individual style, has a rich history of using denim as a canvas for self-expression. This dress elegantly captures the importance of Da’Vine Joy Randolph’s debut at the Met Gala, following her successful Award season, and marks Zac Posen’s first public-facing project after being appointed to his new role at Gap Inc. in February.

Posen accompanied Ms. Randolph on the Met Gala red carpet wearing a Banana Republic made-to-measure suit and pants, draped in high quality Italian wool along with a premium, double 120 count superior poplin front placket shirt, white silk bowtie and a Lily of the Valley brooch from Verdura. Shop an inspired look now at select Banana Republic stores and online.

Eastside Golf Enters Women’s Market, Launches Women’s Line

NEW YORK, PRNewswire -- Eastside Golf, the lifestyle apparel brand rooted in golf dedicated to driving cultural change in the game, launched its first-ever line of women’s apparel. Inspired by the strength, versatility and unapologetic authenticity embodied by women on and off the course, the 20+ piece collection honors the power of female golfers at every stage in their journey, and celebrates progress and new opportunities for everyone in the game. Crafted with the diverse needs of seasoned players, youthful enthusiasts and newcomers in mind, Eastside Golf’s women’s collection was created on a foundation of inclusivity and innovation. Central to the vision is a commitment to performance and body versatility, ensuring that each silhouette is purposefully engineered by an all-female design team.

Pieces from the collection are equally at home on and off the course, including signature items such as a two-piece tracksuit; banded crop tees; jumpsuit; and pique polos, skorts and dresses, which all feature Eastside Golf’s script or swingman logo. The collection is marked by Eastside Golf’s meticulous attention to detail, showcasing the thoughtfulness in the design process to create pieces that support both fashion and function. Hats are designed to be comfortable for a variety of hair styles and textures, and feature a satin lining to protect hair. Many pieces have functional hidden pockets, perfect for tees, golf balls, valuables, sunglasses and keys - offering functionality without impacting the lines of the clothing.

Co-Founder and CEO. “We are serving women who have, up to this point, not been served by golf apparel brands in the way they deserve - they do not have the clothing options that men do, despite making up a sizeable, and increasing, portion of the golf-playing community. We are incredibly proud of the collection and hope to draw in women who are looking for golf clothing that is not just functional but fashionable, and gives them the confidence to be their authentic selves on and off the course.”

The collection will be released in three phases in May. Customers can browse and purchase on Eastside Golf’s website (www.eastsidegolf.com) or through its app.

Pieces from Eastside Golf’s women’s collection are equally at home on and off the course, including signature items such as a twopiece tracksuit; banded crop tees; jumpsuit; and pique polos, skorts and dresses, which all feature Eastside Golf’s script or swingman logo. PRNewsfoto/Eastside Golf

“Since our early days, we’ve had women purchasing Eastside Golf items for themselves, and asking us when we’d be entering the women’s category. But we didn’t want to ‘shrink and pink’ our existing products; we wanted to create something authentic and considered. This is why we dedicated additional resources to bringing on designers with extensive expertise in women’s apparel to create items that are both fashionable and functional, and equally at home on the street or in the clubhouse. We have had our eye on entering the women’s category for a long time, and we are thrilled to bring this to life in our first collection,” said Olajuwon Ajanaku, Eastside Golf Co-Founder and Creative Director.

“As a fashion brand rooted in golf, we are making a brand for golfers and non-golfers alike. Our clothes are designed to feel good both on and off the course,” said Earl Cooper, Eastside Golf

Launched in 2019, Eastside Golf has established itself as a leader in golf apparel and accessories, leveraging fashion to change the cultural perception and conversation around golf. Eastside Golf has transformed public perceptions of golf through its apparel line which has been embraced by golf professionals, celebrities, fashion influencers, and professional athletes alike. The brand is worn by athletes and tastemakers including NBA stars Chris Paul and Jayson Tatum, NFL greats Patrick Mahomes and Victor Cruz, musician DJ Khaled and President Barack Obama, among many others. Its success is further underscored by notable relationships with global brands including seven collaborations with Jordan Brand, and strategic partnerships and licensing deals with major entities such as the NBA, MLB, and Mercedes-Benz USA. Eastside Golf is deeply committed to supporting and spotlighting HBCU golf through events and partnerships and has donated a cumulative $300,000 to support the Morehouse College golf team.

Eastside Golf was founded on June 1st, 2019, and has quickly grown into a brand that has shifted the culture of golf on and off the course. The mission of Eastside Golf is to be the lifestyle brand customers deserve — forging new paths and breaking barriers by designing and curating classic lifestyle wear of the highest quality so every customer can authentically express themselves in comfortable luxury. Eastside Golf’s community outreach and golf education aims to connect young professionals and non-golfers with education, resources, and encouragement to love the game. Learn more at www.eastsidegolf. com, at Facebook or Instagram and X through @EastsideGolf.

Da’Vine Joy Randolph and Gap Inc.’s Creative Director Zac Posen arrive at the 2024 Met Gala at The Metropolitan Museum of Art on May 6, 2024 (Photo Credit: Getty Images)

BRIDGING THE EDUCATIONAL DIVIDE: ADDRESSING DISPARITIES IN OUR SCHOOLS

As we confront the persistent miseducation and disparities in our education system, it’s impera-tive to specifically address the educational divide that exists between urban and suburban school districts. While progress has been made in recent years, significant challenges remain in ensuring that every student has access to a high-quality education, regardless of their zip code.

The challenges that impact the ability of students to receive a quality education in an urban school district versus suburban are stark and undeniable. Every one of the major urban school districts suffers from dysfunctional bureaucracy. Failing urban school districts are interwoven into the fabric of our social, political, and economic institutions that to transform them would require changing every level of government and since public education is the biggest business in our nation, simply stopping the miseducation would impact every facet of our economy. Urban schools often receive less funding than suburban schools, leading to fewer resources for students and teachers. This can result in overcrowded classrooms, outdated technology, and lack of access to critical programs and services. Urban areas tend to have higher poverty rates, and students liv-ing in poverty face several barriers to learning, including inadequate healthcare, food insecurity, and educational opportunities for students of color. In contrast, suburban schools boast state-ofthe-art amenities, abundant resources, well trained teachers, offer advanced and specialized coursework and a plethora of extracurricular opportunities.

Moreover, for children in foster care, these disparities are magnified. Already facing significant challenges, including instability and trauma, children in foster care are further disadvantaged by attending schools that lack the necessary support systems to address their unique needs.

To bridge this educational divide, we must take bold and decisive action. This includes advocat-ing for equitable funding formulas that prioritize schools in underserved communities, investing in infrastructure improvements, efforts to attract and retain high-quality teachers, addressing poverty through social services and community support and a shift away from a narrow focus on standardized testing. Additionally, we must ensure that children in foster care have access to the resources and support they need to succeed academically, regardless of their circumstances.

By addressing miseducation and advocating for the needs of all students, including those in fos-ter care, we can create a more just and equitable education system that empowers every child to reach their full potential. Every miseducated child represents a personal tragedy. Each will have a lifelong struggle to ever have a job that pays enough to live in a safe neighborhood, have ade-quate health insurance, send their own children to better schools than they went to, or have a de-cent retirement. Living in the most prosperous nation, the miseducated will live shorter lives characterized by greater stress and limited life options. It’s time to come together as a community and take meaningful steps towards building a brighter future for all students.

17926 S. Halsted Street, Suite 1W Homewood, IL 6043 0

Friday, May 31, from 3 p.m. - 7 p.m.

Saturday, June 1, from 9 a.m. - 12 p.m.

For questions email christina.bohne@actforchildren.org

Andrade Advances Measure

Allowing Motorists to Recover Personal Items from Towed Vehicles

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. — Continuing his efforts to support motorists, state Rep. Jaime Andrade, D-Chicago, passed legislation on Tuesday that allows motorists the chance to recover valuable personal items like medical devices and identification cards from their vehicles.

“Common sense tells you that if someone is unfortunate enough to have their car towed, these companies should allow motorists to get their important IDs, lifesaving medical devices and school textbooks out of their vehicle, free of charge, but that’s not always the case,” Andrade said. “Unfortunately, some tow companies have strong armed motorists, resulting in even more out-of-pocket costs in overdue textbook fees, new prescriptions and renewed documents. This legislation was needed, because too many of Illinois’ families have faced hundreds of dollars in fines and costs because of a glaring loophole. I look forward to seeing the Governor’s signature on this legislation and more discussion on how we can best support motorists in the future.”

Andrade championed Senate Bill 2654 which allows someone to recover personal medical devices, ID cards, college textbooks, and study material from a vehicle that is being held by a towing company without facing penalties or fees.

Andrade’s legislation continues his long support of motorists and safer streets. He recently passed House Bill 4451 which would dedicate funds from speed enforcement cameras to safety improvements at nearby parks and schools.

Senate Bill 2654 passed unanimously out of the House on Tuesday, May 14 and awaits the Governor’s signature.

May is Mental Health Awareness Month

Now offering bus service at Ford Heights and Harvey / South Holland

Guitar Center Inducts

Guitarist Gary Clark Jr. Into RockWalk

The Iconic Event Made a Return to Los Angeles After 6 Years The 4-Time Grammy® Award Winner Was Presented with the Prestigious Honor by Renowned Los Angeles Broadcast Music Journalist Nic Harcourt

WESTLAKE VILLAGE, Calif., PRNewswire

-- Guitar Center announced the induction of fourtime Grammy® winning guitarist Gary Clark Jr. into the retailer’s iconic RockWalk. The private ceremony took place at Guitar Center’s Hollywood location on Sunset Boulevard. Following the ceremony, Gary Clark Jr. performed at Guitar Center’s flagship - his first concert in Los Angeles since releasing his newest album, “JPEG RAW”.

“We are thrilled to welcome Gary Clark Jr. into the esteemed ranks of Guitar Center’s RockWalk inductees. His extraordinary talent and contributions to music make him a perfect fit for this honor,” said Gabe Dalporto, CEO of Guitar Center. “Gary’s induction is a testament to his incredible impact on the world of music, and we were pleased to celebrate his achievements at this year’s ceremony. His handprints are a prestigious addition to Guitar Center’s RockWalk, alongside the legends who have shaped the industry.”

The RockWalk ceremony made a return to the city of Los Angeles after six years. Renowned Los Angeles broadcast music journalist Nic Harcourt hosted the memorable evening and presented Gary Clark Jr. with the prestigious recognition.

“I am honored to be the latest inductee into Guitar Center’s RockWalk,” stated Gary Clark Jr., the celebrated musician and newest RockWalk honoree. “This recognition holds immense significance for me, as it not only reflects my unwavering dedication and love for music but also acknowledges the respect and admiration of my peers and fellow musicians, who I also equally love and admire.”

Guitar Center’s RockWalk is dedicated to

honoring those artists who have made a significant impact and lasting contribution to the growth and evolution of Rock ‘n’ Roll, Blues and R&B. As the newest RockWalk inductee, Gary Clark Jr.’s handprints now reside alongside the handprints, signatures, and faces of other equally accomplished musicians and innovators such as Eric Clapton, George Martin, Jimmy Page, Ozzy Osbourne, Carlos Santana, Johnny Cash, Van Halen, AC/ DC, Aerosmith, Marvin Gaye, James Brown, B.B. King, Stevie Wonder, Run-D.M.C., Maná, Linkin Park, and Queen, among numerous others.

Guitar Center RockWalk is an industry-recognized historic pedestrian path dedicated to honoring the musicians and pioneers who have made a significant impact on music through exceptional talent, outstanding innovation or creative ingenuity with their chosen instruments. Located at the entrance of the flagship Guitar Center store on Sunset Blvd. in Hollywood, California, RockWalk was founded in 1985 with the induction of Remo Belli, Bill Ludwig Jr., C.F. Martin III, Jim Marshall, Robert Moog, Les Paul, Eddie Van Halen and Stevie Wonder. Since that first induction, over 150 notable musicians, producers, bands and manufacturers have been recognized. With concrete blocks bearing the signatures and handprints of these iconic industry personalities, this celebratory landmark has become a top attraction for fans from around the world.

For more information on Guitar Center’s RockWalk, visit https://www.guitarcenter.com/ rockwalk.gc.

Overbrook Veteran Jana BabatundeBey to Produce the Upcoming Feature Film CURTSY Set in the World of African American Debutantes

LOS ANGELES, PRNewswire -- Overbrook veteran Jana Babatunde-Bey and J. Bey Entertainment announce their upcoming project CURTSY -- a feature comedy about complicated mother-daughter relationships set in the exclusive world of African American Debutantes. While Cotillions in European society have been dramatized often in projects like Netflix’s hit series Bridgerton, CURTSY delivers a rare depiction of modern African American Cotillions sponsored annually by prestigious Black organizations across the United States.

Jana Babatunde-Bey’s credits include HALA and Amend: The Fight for America. HALA is the heartfelt and dramatic coming of age feature selected to launch the Apple + platform, written and directed by award winning Pakistani creative Minhal Baig; and Amend: The Fight for America, hosted by Academy Award-winning Actor/Producer Will Smith, streams on Netflix and chronicles the evolving and often lethal fight for equal rights in America through the lens of the US Constitution’s 14th Amendment.

“CURTSY is a fresh and lush story about family, community, tradition, and empowerment that resonates with me personally as a mother, and professionally as a visual storyteller. It’s an experience that mothers and daughters will share for decades to come,” said Babatunde-Bey. “We are thrilled to collaborate with the singular creative icon that is Ms. Debbie Allen. We are excited by her vision for illuminating the sophisticated complexities of this story’s rich characters and elevating the magic of a beautifully unique world.”

The project’s Director – Golden Globe and Emmy Award-winner Debbie Allen – echoed Babatunde-Bey’s enthusiasm. “Jana is putting together a dream team to help tell this important, intergenerational story,” said Allen. “Cotillions are a world that people may feel have come and gone, but they continue to be a cultural linchpin in our community - a community that in some ways needs resuscitation. CURTSY will exude joy with a serious heartbeat and a look into the past, present, and future for those who proclaim its rich cultural identity.

Written by writer/producer Teryl Warren, the script boasts an ensemble of compelling characters including Debutantes, their Escorts, and parents as they navigate nerve-wracking and hilarious challenges throughout the Cotillion Season. In addition to peeling back the layers of family secrets, bitter rivalries and long-held traditions, the project promises to deliver glamour, spectacle, cultural insights, and nostalgia.

Debbie Allen is repped by Buchwald and Moseley & Associates. J. Bey Entertainment is repped by Hertz Lichtenstein Young & Polk. Teryl Warren is repped by Granderson Des Rochers. J. Bey Entertainment is a film and television production company with a social purpose to tell stories that entertain, inspire, and elevate. Founded by veteran media industry executive, film and television producer, philanthropist and legacy builder, Jana Babatunde-Bey, J. Bey Entertainment empowers through compelling storytelling and critically acclaimed character driven stories that delight audiences around the world, produced by and featuring diverse talent in front of and behind the camera.

Jana Babatunde-Bey. PRNewsFoto

Photo by Guitar Center

Local Business Owner & Philanthropist Dean Barnett Designs Memorial Garden For Grieving Mother Of Gun Violence Victim

(Hazel Crest, IL) In a heartwarming act of community and compassion, local business owner Dean Barnett has created a lasting memorial for Ms. Shawn Griffin, a grieving mother whose son, Shawn Griffin Jr., tragically was gunned down on August 12, 2023, on the 16700 Block of Richmond Avenue near Barnett’s business. The Shawn Griffin Memorial Garden now stands as a testament to the power of kindness and the importance of community support during times of profound sorrow.

Dean Barnett encountered Ms. Griffin one morning as he and his son, Donavon Barnett, were leaving for a job site. They saw Ms. Griffin struggling to dig into the ground with a pipe, attempting to install a solar floodlight to illuminate a custom-made white wood cross commemorating her son. Dean approached her and realized that the cross was placed in a rut, frequently damaged by the trucks of a neighboring company. Understanding that the cross was at risk of being destroyed, Dean felt compelled to assist. Ms. Griffin, overwhelmed with emotion, explained her situation to Dean, who was moved by her sorrow.

“It was immediately put on my heart to provide this mother with a place that would always bring her joy when she drives past. I suggested creating a special, secure memorial garden and offered to take on the project. Ms. Griffin agreed, and with my son Donavon, we rescheduled plans for the day to begin work on the garden,” said Dean Barnett.

With the help of friends Andre Shelton from Shelton Landscape and Ray Bailey of Riteway Auto, who also owns the property, they transformed the area into a beautifully landscaped garden. This memorial not only beautifies the 167th corridor but, more importantly, provides Ms. Griffin with a lasting tribute to her son, whom she lovingly referred to as her twin.

Dean Barnett's commitment to community service and philanthropy is well-known. The sight of Ms. Griffin's tears resonated deeply with him, prompting him to take immediate action. Having lost his own mother, Dean finds a personal connection in supporting another mother through such a difficult time. He hopes his mother would be proud of his efforts to help Ms. Griffin find peace.

The Shawn Griffin Memorial Garden was completed on Tuesday, May 14th, as a special tribute for Mother's Day. This heartfelt project was funded through the combined generosity of Dean Barnett, Andre Shelton, and Ray Bailey, who collaborated to make this memorial a reality.

Dean Barnett is a dedicated father of two, a 24-year-old son and a 13-year-old daughter. He serves as the long-standing Board President of Hazel Crest School District 152½, is a prominent philanthropist, and owns Barnett Outdoor Living LLC.

For more information about the Shawn Griffin Memorial Garden or to learn how you can support similar initiatives, please contact Dean Barnett at Barnett Outdoor Living LLC.

DISTRICT 152.5 WELCOMES NEW SUPERINTENDENT DR. CYNTHIA LEVY

(Hazel Crest, IL) District 152.5 proudly announces the appointment of Dr. Levy as its new Superintendent, effective July 1st. Dr. Levy brings with her over two decades of invaluable experience in education, coupled with a visionary approach that places the well-being and educational growth of children at the forefront.

Dr. Levy's journey in education began in 2002 as an English Language Arts instructor, where her passion for teaching and nurturing young minds flourished. Over the years, she progressively climbed the educational ladder, making significant contributions to the field in Districts 228 in Bremen Township and Rich Township District 227. Throughout her career, Dr. Levy has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to fostering a supportive and enriching learning environment for both students and educators alike.

Levy Hopes To Empower Educations And Acquire New Instructors

“At the heart of my vision is the empowerment of our teachers," Dr. Levy remarks. "When our educators thrive, our students are provided with the opportunity to excel at the highest levels.”

Dr. Levy's vision for District 152.5 encompasses initiatives aimed at attracting and retaining top-tier instructors, recognizing the crucial role they play in shaping the future. Her plans include creating pathways for professional development and advancement and ensuring teachers have the resources and support necessary to continuously enhance their skills and expertise. Long-serving School Board President Dean Barnett believes that Dr. Levy is exactly what the district needs as a leader and hopes to see her accomplish significant changes.

"My Goal Here Is To Create A Learning Environment That Is A Destination District As Every Child Needs A Champion"

“Dr. Levy is exactly what our district needs in this new era of education. Her passion, vision, and extensive experience make her the perfect leader to drive the transformative changes we aspire to achive.. I am confident that we will see great advancements in our educational standards and community engagement under her leadership,” says President Dean Barnett.

Under Dr. Levy's leadership, the district is set to build upon its recent accomplishments, including a 5% raise for teachers, designed to provide much-needed support amidst prevailing economic challenges. Furthermore, District 152.5 is actively seeking talented individuals to join its ranks, particularly in areas such as Special Education, Physical Education, Math Instruction, and Social Work.

Dr. Levy expresses gratitude for the exceptional staff she has inherited and is proud of the district's improved performance in State Testing. Her dedication to student success is evident in her commitment to instilling fundamental literacy skills and fostering leadership development among staff.

“My goal here is to create a learning environment that is a Destination District. ” Dr. Levy declares. Every child needs a champion, and I want to be a champion for children in this district.”

District 152.5 eagerly anticipates the positive impact Dr. Levy will undoubtedly bring as she assumes her role as Superintendent. Together, under her leadership, the district aims to continue its trajectory toward excellence, ensuring that every student receives the support and resources necessary to thrive academically and personally.

Dr. Cynthia Levy School District 152,5 New Superintendent. Photo provided by STH Media LLC.

For A Bright Future Foundation and NAB Leadership Foundation

ANNOUNCE STRATEGIC PARTNERSHIP

MIAMI, PRNewswire -- Louis Hernandez Jr.’s Foundation For A Bright Future (“For A Bright Future,” “FABF”), a non-profit organization dedicated to supporting underprivileged and underrepresented children, is proud to announce a groundbreaking partnership with the NAB Leadership Foundation (“NABLF”) to revolutionize media education and career pathways for students. This collaboration, rooted in shared values and objectives, aims to provide students with unparalleled educational opportunities and sustainable employment prospects in the media industry.

FABF and NABLF are joining forces to create a distinctive educational journey for students by leveraging their shared missions. The NAB Leadership Foundation focuses on attracting talented individuals to broadcasting careers and promoting inclusivity within the industry, aligning seamlessly with FABF’s goal of providing cutting-edge dual credit instruction to secondary school students. Through this partnership, students will gain exposure to cutting-edge technologies in the media industry and develop valuable leadership skills, paving the way for sustainable employment opportunities.

online lectures, station tours, internships and capstone presentations to media executives.

“I am thrilled about our collaboration with NAB Leadership Foundation and the potential impact it holds for empowering students in media education. This partnership signifies a pivotal step towards fostering a vibrant and inclusive media sector, opening doors for diverse talents to flourish and create a positive impact. Together, we are sowing the seeds for a brighter and more equitable future,” said Louis Hernandez Jr., For A Bright Future Founder and Chairman of the Board.

“By joining forces with For A Bright Future, we will be able to scale our efforts in recruiting more young people to explore career-related education, specifically in broadcast technology, programming and marketing and sales,” stated NAB Leadership Foundation President Michelle Duke. “Facilitating internships at television and radio companies are the cornerstones of our academic programs, and it synchronizes beautifully with FABF’s goal of placing diverse talent in the world of creative arts and media. It’s an exciting time for our two foundations to work together.”

The collaboration will initially focus on key markets in New York, California, Florida, Texas and other regions where FABF can maximize their combined expertise and resources to create impactful programs.

The partnership aims to achieve the following objectives:

Develop a comprehensive career pathway bridging high school and higher education in the media technology sector;

Expand leadership programs to target the media technology sector; and

Explore funding resources to support ongoing initiatives and broaden program access for communities in need.

Additionally, the partnership will offer recipients of FABF’s Media Lab and Creative Arts Scholarships increased opportunities to participate in NABLF’s Technology Apprenticeship Program, Emerson Coleman Fellowship and Media Sales Academy.

FABF’s Media Lab program envisions establishing media facilities in schools, allowing students to produce their own television programs, short films, music and sports programming. The program launched in 2023 in Los Angeles, Miami and New York City regional areas, with plans for sustained deployments across the United States and eventual global expansion.

The NAB Leadership Foundation provides collegiate-level education, executive management courses and job seeker resources with the specific purpose of advancing diversity and leadership in the broadcast industry. Students and participants come from all over the country and programs occur in a hybrid environment with a combination of

The partnership between For A Bright Future Foundation and the NAB Leadership Foundation represents a significant step towards empowering students in media education and creating sustainable career pathways. Together, these organizations are committed to fostering a vibrant and inclusive media industry for the benefit of students and communities.

Louis Hernandez Jr.’s Foundation For A Bright Future is a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit organization dedicated to supporting the needs of underrepresented and underprivileged children through education, healthcare, the arts, and youth leadership development. Our initiatives provide equal opportunity for all children to have the tools and opportunities to fulfill their life goals and become constructive members of our global community. Learn more at forabrightfuturefoundation.org.

The NAB Leadership Foundation was established 30 years ago as a nonprofit entity by the National Association of Broadcasters to dedicate resources towards developing programs that specifically serve broadcast professionals. The mission of the Foundation is to recruit dynamic and talented individuals for careers in broadcasting, advance diversity within the industry and recognize the community impact of local television and radio stations. Learn more at nabfoundation.org.

The National Association of Broadcasters is the premier advocacy association for America’s broadcasters. NAB advances radio and television interests in legislative, regulatory and public affairs. Through advocacy, education and innovation, NAB enables broadcasters to best serve their communities, strengthen their businesses and seize new opportunities in the digital age. Learn more at nab. org.

U.S. Black Chambers, Inc. Launches USBC Resource Hub Supported

by Wells Fargo

(Black PR Wire) The U.S. Black Chambers, Inc. (USBC) proudly announces the launch of the USBC Resource Hub, an innovative online platform supported by Wells Fargo. This resource hub is designed to provide Black businesses with a comprehensive suite of cutting-edge tools and programs to support growth, sustainability, and success.

USBC is committed to providing a fundamental pillar of entrepreneurial training and development to support the growth and success of Black businesses across the nation. This essential work is grounded in our dedication to fostering economic equity and creating opportunities for Black entrepreneurs to thrive in today’s competitive marketplace.

By offering a wide range of educational programs, technical assistance, and resources through the Resource Desk, USBC equips Black entrepreneurs with the knowledge, skills, and support they need to navigate challenges and seize opportunities. This work is important because it helps bridge gaps in access to resources, information, and funding, ultimately empowering Black business owners to reach their full potential and contribute to the economic vitality of their communities.

The USBC Resource Hub includes a range of key programs, such as:

Technical Assistance: Access expert guidance and support through our chambers to navigate business challenges.

Loan Programs: Benefit from a new loan program designed to help your business grow and achieve financial goals.

Corporate, Supplier Diversity, Government and Matchmaking Programs: Sustain your firm with strategic partnerships and contracting opportunities for those seeking diverse suppliers.

Business Counseling, Accounting Services, and Referral Networks: Access professional advice and services to keep your business on track and financially healthy.

Certification and Directory Programs: Enhance your firm’s credibility and access new opportunities with various certification programs and increase your visibility for your services.

On-Demand Webinars: Utilize a library of training sessions and educational content available on demand.

Alisa Joseph, VP Director of Programs, USBC, shared her perspective on the launch: “The USBC Resource Hub is a transformative step towards empowering Black businesses with the tools and resources they need to succeed. This platform exemplifies our commitment to supporting economic equity and fostering a thriving business community.”

Our impactful partnership with corporations like Wells Fargo enables us to expand our reach and enhance the services we provide. Together, we deliver a comprehensive suite of innovative tools and programs that propel Black businesses forward. Through collaborative efforts, we can ensure a more inclusive and equitable business landscape, where diverse entrepreneurs have the chance to grow, succeed, and lead.

To learn more about the USBC Resource Hub and explore its wide range of offerings, visit https://usblackchambers.org/ resources/.

The U.S. Black Chambers, Inc. (USBC) provides committed, visionary leadership, and advocacy in the realization of economic empowerment. Through the creation of resources and initiatives, we support a network of African American Chambers of Commerce and business organizations in their work of developing and growing Black enterprises. Learn more at usblackchambers.org.

BlackPRWire

BIDS

Invitation to Bid

(StatePoint) Whether you’re currently a financial advisor or considering becoming one, knowing which qualities are high in demand among your potential clients can help you position yourself for a lucrative and rewarding career. Here are five things that consumers look for in a financial advisor, as well as how CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ certification can help you meet your clients’ expectations:

1. Someone they can trust: Clients seek a financial advisor to help them protect what matters most and to achieve their short- and long-term goals. Building a trusted relationship is critical. In short, clients want a fiduciary, someone who will put the client’s best interests first. CFP® certification means you’ve committed to CFP Board to act as a fiduciary, and therefore, act in the best interests of your clients at all times when providing financial advice.

2. Expertise: An overwhelming 90% of consumers see an advisor’s qualifications as important, and 86% prefer an advisor who has passed a certification exam and a rigorous education program. CFP® certification signals to prospective clients that you’ve passed rigorous education, examination, experience and ethical require-

ments.

3. Someone who can offer 360degree advice: More than 4 out of 5 consumers prefer an advisor who takes all areas of their financial life into account. CFP® certification prepares you to do just that, equipping you to offer holistic financial planning so that you can deliver the service a great majority of clients are seeking.

4. A listening ear: Financial planning today is about so much more than making sound investments. It’s also about understanding your clients’ desires and anxieties and helping them work through the psychological hurdles adversely affecting their money story. Part of CFP® certification is understanding the psychology behind financial planning. Having a solid grasp on the emotional aspect of money can make all the difference in your success.

5. A willingness to learn: The financial landscape is always changing, and so should your skills and knowledge. As financial regulations are updated, tax codes are changed and new financial products are introduced — staying current is important to your clients. Maintaining CFP® certification requires continuing education, so you can always provide your best counsel.

Given how closely the right credentials align with consumer demand, it’s no surprise that CFP® professionals out-earn their industry peers by 12%. To learn more about why you should get CFP® certification, visit CFP.net.

The bottom line? Consumers have very high standards for their financial advisors. To give yourself a competitive edge, achieve the certification that lets clients know you’re a trusted expert in your field.

FOR SALE

SALE

4- LEATHER SWIVEL BAR STOOLS

6 LEATHER TABLE CHAIRS 773-382-6475

CALL ANYTIME AFTER 1:00 P.M.

South Suburban College is interested in receiving bids for the purchase of Athletic Uniforms and Supplies. A prior bid opening was held on May 8, 2024, at 10:00am. SSC is rebidding to capture a significant number of items that were not bid and for additional pricing. For further information, contact Maureen Summit, SSC, 15800 South State Street, South Holland, Illinois 60473, (708) 2105757, or visit www.ssc.edu/purchasing. Electronic documents can be downloaded via Demand Star or Beacon Bid. A link is provided on the SSC website under this bid. Sealed bids will be received up to the hour of 10:00am on May 30, 2024, in Room 2115. A public opening will be held on May 30th at 10:00am in the President’s Conference Room.

NOTICE OF DEMOLISH OR REMEDIATE

NOTICE TO DEMOLISH OR REMEDIATE

PLEASE TAKE NOTICE THAT THE PROPERTY LEGALLY DESCRIBED AS: LOTS 21 AND 22 IN BLOCK 3 IN WEST HAMMOND SUBDIVISION IN SECTION 17, TOWNSHIP 36 NORTH, RANGE 15, EAST OF THE THIRD PRINCIPAL MERIDIAN, IN COOK COUNTY, ILLINOIS. P.I.N.: 30-17103-004-0000 COMMONLY KNOWN AS: 241 Pulaski Road, Calumet City, IL 60409 is found and deemed by the City of Calumet City, pursuant to Section 11-31-1(a) of the Illinois Municipal Code (65 ILCS 5/11-31-1(a)), to be a dangerous, unsafe, and/or abandoned building within the limits of the City of Calumet City. Said property is open and vacant and constitutes an immediate and continuing hazard to the community. Unless the dangerous, unsafe and/or abandoned building located at or on the above-described Property is demolished or put in a safe condition, the City intends to proceed with demolition of the Property and any structures thereon. Please contact the City’s attorneys at (312) 724-8035 if you need additional information. Dominick L. Lanzito Peterson, Johnson & Murray, LLC 1301 W. 22nd St., Suite 500 Oakbrook, IL 60523 312-724-8035 dlanzito@pjmlaw.com

When veterinary care is unavailable or unaffordable, ask for Happy Jack® animal healthcare products for cats, dogs, & horses. At Tractor Supply® (www.happyjackinc.com).

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