South Suburban Citizen 7-5-2023

PERFORMER USES HER UPBRINGING TO INSPIRE ART

Coco Elysses knew she wanted to be a performer when she was seven or eight years of age. She felt at home on stage, being a part of telling a story, whether it was music, theater or dance.

ASSOCIATION HOUSE OF CHICAGO EARNS APA FOUNDATION AWARD FOR ADVANCING MINORITY MENTAL HEALTH

WASHINGTON, D.C., – At its annual benefit held in conjunction with the American Psychiatric Association (APA) Annual Meeting, the American Psychiatric Association Foundation (APAF) named Association House of Chicago as one of the seven recipients of the 2023 Awards for Advancing Minority Mental Health.

Since 2003, the APAF has recognized 99 community-based organizations with awards totaling $535,000 for their innovative and supportive efforts to raise awareness about mental illness in unserved and underserved minority communities. These efforts promote early recognition, improve access to quality mental health services, and address cultural barriers to treatment, with special attention to those in the public health system or with severe mental illness. The awards include a financial contribution of $5,000 for each organization to continue and expand its important work.

Founded in 1899, the Association House of Chicago was first established as a community center but grew with its diverse neighborhood’s needs to include a multitude of services over the last century. Today, the Association House serves its community by providing comprehensive, collaborative, and effective programs in English and Spanish. These include behavioral health, child welfare, community health, workforce development, and school programs.

Association House aims to fill gaps that low-income individuals and families face in areas of high economic hardship. This past year alone, they have served 3,018 individuals, with 51% being Hispanic/Latinx and 36% being African American.

The APA Foundation is honored to issue this award to an organization that provides necessary resources and wellness programs to marginalized and low-income individuals in Chicago, Illinois.

Gov. Pritzker Announces Over $1 Billion in Federal Funding to Support High-Speed Internet Access and Adoption in Illinois

FUNDING WILL HELP CONNECT ALL ILLINOISANS TO HIGH-SPEED INTERNET SERVICES

CHICAGO — Governor JB Pritzker along with the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) announced Illinois will be allocated over $1 billion in funding to support high-speed internet access through the Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment (BEAD) Program. This grant will help fund the development of high-speed infrastructure across the nation as part of President Biden’s Internet for All initiative.

“This funding is a significant step in ensuring Illinoisans across the state have access to the reliable high-speed internet that they need,” said Governor JB Pritzker. “I am committed to making Illinois a leader when it comes to technology and innovation, and access to broadband is a critical service for all residents who rely on high-speed internet for everything from healthcare and education, to running a business.”

The $1 billion in funding will build upon Governor Pritzker’s historic $420 million Connect Illinois broadband infrastructure plan — a part of Rebuild Illinois, focused on delivering upgrades to ensure that every community across the state has 21st century broadband capability. Connect Illinois includes allocating $400 million to the Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO) to deploy statewide broadband expansion, especially for the rural families and communities that have been the most impacted by the digital divide. It also includes $20 million to repair, enhance, and expand broadband for schools with a focus on K-12 education.

Reliable, accessible, and affordable broadband is crucial to the economic growth and success of the state. In partnership with the federal government, Governor Pritzker’s administration is enacting a nation-leading approach to eliminate the digital divide.

The BEAD Program is the federal government’s largest-ever investment in the expansion of high-speed internet access and focuses on connecting underserved and rural communities.

Continued from page 1

Performer uses her upbringing to inspire art

By Tia Carol Jones

As a child, she studied dance, taking ballet and modern dance classes on the South side of Chicago, as well as acting. She attended a program where anyone who was interested in the performing arts could come and discover the different aspects of arts. She studied music through free programming at school.

Coco’s inspiration comes from the world. Moving through the world. People, places, things and events really shape her into wanting to say a thing. Coco didn’t discover how the Village of Robbins informed her craft until the last 20 years. That is when she started to really write and create art, as opposed to performing art that was created by other people.

“Oftentimes, the people of the community, my family, the people of the community who were like family, became the subject of inspiration. Or, it could be a principle about that particular family or that particular person that I grew up with or I saw, who said certain things and it would become a part of the tapestry that I like to create and talk about,” she said.

The first thing Coco wrote that she performed was a one-woman show about her mother. It was called, “You can’t hide,” and was inspired by Suzan-Lori Parks, who is Coco’s favorite writer. Parks, the Pulitzer Prize winning playwright wrote a piece called, “Pickling,” about a woman who pickles her beloved objects in a jar. One line in that piece about mother’s milk stood out to Coco.

Coco performed at the Museum of Contemporary Arts. One of the pieces she performed is titled, “Rob -

bins Juke Joint.” It was a very vulnerable moment for her because everything she performed at the MCA she wrote and composed, and it was the first time those pieces were heard, outside of rehearsals. It is something Coco wanted to revisit and continue, she called it a work in progress.

“It was pretty exciting because oftentimes the people who are part of the subject matter are unsung heroes and sheroes that may not have a career that extended outside of the four blocks or ten blocks … but they were celebrated in our hearts,” she said, adding that the people who knew the people who were the subject matter for the piece, would smile, laugh or even get sad at the mention of that person’s name, because they are gone.

Overall, the performance of “Robbins Juke Joint was exciting for Coco and it was interesting for her to see what people came away with from the performance. Coco believes that the blues is healing and being around people who are familiar. She wanted to incorporate those aspects in the music and lyrics of the piece. She wanted an opportunity for people to see themselves really authentically and heal from it and learn from it.

Coco considers herself a folk artist, she describes herself as Afrofuturistic, Folkloric Funk. She incorporates a lot of different textures in her work. The name Elixir Ensemble describes a mixture of different things that have the intention to heal and to touch. “All of our journeys are super duper important and the people we interface with, we interface with them for a reason. We should remember the why,” she said. For more information about Coco Elysses, visit https://cocoelyssesdarcell.com.

CONGRESSMAN JONATHAN L. JACKSON (IL-01) CHAMPIONS “STOP FENTANYL NOW ACT OF 2023”

Congressman Jonathan L. Jackson joined fellow lawmakers at a press conference to announce the rollout of the “Stop Fentanyl Now Act of 2023” led by Sheila Jackson Lee (TX-18) — a critical step in addressing the nationwide fentanyl crisis.

Congressman Jackson empathized, “Fentanyl is a national problem, and we are providing a national solution. Families are being robbed; children are being killed by the importation of these deadly drugs. Now, we are demanding that the federal government use all its resources to fight back. Our mission is to save the lives of Americans, especially our children. We cannot, and will not, stand idle as this crisis continues to unfold.”

Fentanyl-related deaths are increasing at an alarming rate across the United States, claiming nearly 200 lives daily. As reported by the CDC, fentanyl-related deaths exceeded 70,000 nationwide last year, tragically including approximately 1,500 individuals under the age of 20.

The “Stop Fentanyl Now Act of 2023” is a crucial response to this surge in overdoses and deaths. This comprehensive legislation:

Provides training and resources to schools and teachers, enabling them to administer life-saving opioid overdose reversal drugs or devices.

Halts the online sale of pills that target and fuel addiction among our youth.

Requires the Department of Health and Human

Services (HHS) and the Department of Justice (DOJ) to develop a national strategy for public education about fentanyl and its synthetic and laced derivatives.

Provides grants to states for the development and implementation of treatment programs for individuals addicted to these substances.

Increases resources available to law enforcement agencies to combat the trafficking of these substances, and establishes an interagency task force to coordinate federal, state, and local efforts.

Directs the HHS to conduct research to better understand the effects of these substances, to develop new treatments for addiction, and to determine best practices for prevention.

Enhances penalties for offenses involving the distribution or manufacture of adulterated or misbranded drugs with the intent to defraud or mislead, as well as the promotion or sale of such drugs online.

Importantly, this legislation also acknowledges the medical uses of non-illicit fentanyl and rejects the counterproductive approach of mass criminalization of drug usage.

In conclusion, Congressman Jackson stressed, “I’m proud to stand with my colleagues in co-sponsoring the ‘Stop Fentanyl Now Act of 2023.’ Our collective effort is a testament to our determination to confront this crisis head-on and work tirelessly to ensure the safety and well-being of all Americans.”

Gov. Pritzker Celebrates Start of 110-mph Passenger Service on Chicago-St. Louis Line

CHICAGO – Governor JB Pritzker joined federal, state, and local officials, along with the Federal Railroad Administration, Amtrak, the Union Pacific Railroad, and project supporters at Union Station to celebrate the start of 110 mph passenger rail service between Chicago and St. Louis. This multi-year project better connects the state’s communities and major institutions while improving safety, convenience, and accessibility. Starting with the first trains on Amtrak’s state-supported Lincoln Service this morning, the higher speeds are eliminating approximately 15 minutes from the previous 90 mph runtimes between the two cities and 30 minutes from the initial 79 mph schedule in place when the project broke ground.

“Illinois is the only state where all seven of the nation’s largest railroads operate. That’s a unique economic advantage recognized by employers across the globe, helping our state attract and maintain quality jobs,” said Governor JB Pritzker. “By upgrading to higher-speed service on Illinois’ largest passenger rail line, we are solidifying our status as the transportation hub of North America. Investments like these do more than just connect cities – they allow our residents to access opportunities beyond their immediate neighborhoods, streamline regional collaborations, and open doors for new jobs and new businesses.”

and made upgrades to the Springfield station. A separate project to build a new multimodal station in Joliet was completed in 2018, with a second phase starting in 2021.

The facilities provide a better customer experience and amenities, such as free Wi-Fi and connections to bicycle and pedestrian facilities. The new and improved stations act as gateways to their communities, inviting tourism and providing additional travel options for the public.

A final component of the project is the acquisition of new locomotives and railcars to be used throughout the Midwest. The new Charger locomotives are the first higher-speed passenger locomotives to meet Tier 4 emissions standards, resulting in 90% emissions reduction compared to older locomotives. Thirty-three new locomotives have been in service since late 2017.

Illinois is also part of a consortium of states working to procure 88 new single-level railcars that are fully accessible for persons with disabilities for use in Illinois, Missouri, Wisconsin, and Michigan. More than 50 of the cars are currently in revenue service on Amtrak Midwest routes.

HUNTER LAUNCHES SUMMER BOOK CLUB FOR YOUNG READERS

State Senator Mattie Hunter announced the launch of her Summer Book Club to encourage young readers within the 3rd Senate District to stay engaged over summer break.

“Reading helps us learn and develop our imaginations and provides an escape from our everyday lives,” said Hunter (D-Chicago). “I hope students will explore libraries this summer and find a few books that interest them.”

To participate in the Summer Book Club, students must read eight books of their choice during the summer break, record the names of the books on a form and return the form to Hunter’s office by Aug. 18. Every child who completes the Summer Book Club will receive a gift card and certificate.

Book club forms are available to download at www.SenatorHunter.com or can be requested by calling Hunter’s district office at 312-949-1908.

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“I’m proud to join our state and local leaders to celebrate the new Lincoln Line, a defining moment that will take our state’s transportation to the next level,” said Lt. Governor Juliana Stratton. “This high-speed passenger rail service is an investment that will strengthen our local economy, connect Chicago and St. Louis residents, and drive Illinois forward with safe and reliable transportation at the forefront of our efforts.”

In addition to increasing speeds, the $1.96 billion project has boosted safety and reliability for passengers while providing upgraded and new stations. Ride quality has also been enhanced up and down the corridor for both passenger and freight service on the Union Pacific Railroad, thanks to the addition of new concrete ties along the route and improvements to bridges, culverts, and signaling systems.

Major upgrades were performed at 212 grade crossings by installing four-quadrant gates and loop detectors to help prevent collisions with vehicles on the tracks. Pedestrian gates and fencing were built to protect people crossing tracks passing through towns and neighborhoods. Thirty-nine crossings deemed at-risk were permanently closed.

The project also built new stations in Dwight, Pontiac, Carlinville, and Alton, renovated the Lincoln station, improved the existing Normal station,

“Union Pacific is proud to have been a part of this large-scale, multiyear undertaking to safely accommodate both freight and high-speed passenger trains on the same rail line,” said Union Pacific Chairman, President, and CEO Lance Fritz. “This project embodies the true meaning of partnership and underscores what can be accomplished when we come together and pull in the same direction.”

The project is made possible via $1.66 billion in federal funding, primarily through an American Recovery and Reinvestment Act grant, as well as $300 million in state and non-federal funds. The project broke ground in 2010 with major infrastructure improvements completed in 2018. From 2019 to 2023, IDOT has worked with project partners to install and test a Positive Train Control system that allows passenger trains to increase their speed first to 90 mph and now 110 mph while enabling technology to automatically stop a train before a collision.

“Under Gov. Pritzker, IDOT is delivering one of the more complex projects in our history, requiring an unprecedented level of teamwork among the state and railroads, as well as our federal and local partners,” said Illinois Transportation Secretary Omer Osman. “The progress continues. Thanks to the governor’s historic Rebuild Illinois capital program, we will be advancing freight and passenger rail improvements throughout the state in the years ahead.”

For additional information on the new schedule or to purchase tickets, visit amtrak.com/midwest.

COOK COUNTY TREASURER’S OFFICE TO RECYCLE FLOWERS AND BOUQUETS FROM THE WORLD’S BEST FLORAL ARTISTS BY DELIVERING THEM TO CHICAGO POLICE OFFICERS

Volunteers from the office of Cook County Treasurer Maria Pappas will make sure that hundreds of flowers and intricate bouquets from the American Institute of Floral Designers Symposium in Chicago next week won’t go to waste. The award-winning bouquets will be delivered to several of the city’s 25 police stations and given to police officers and their spouses.

“We’re just trying to spread a little joy this summer,” said Pappas. “Police officers put their lives on the line for the citizens of this city each and every day. This is just a small way of saying: ‘Thanks, Officer.’”

The flower design show, which runs July 1 – 6 at the Hilton Chicago, is the floral industry’s premiere floral design education event attracting the industry’s leading business owners, floral artists, suppliers and event professionals.

Hundreds of flowers and bouquets from the show will be picked up and delivered to area police stations daily by volunteers from the Treasurer’s Office and from Bloom ‘N Toss, a Chicago-area company that donates and repurposes flowers to hospitals and nursing homes. Catherine Costello, the owner of Bloom ‘N Toss, is coordinating the effort.

“When I first learned about this incredible opportunity to recycle these flowers and bouquets that have been created by the most talented hands in the floral industry I immediately reached out to Treasurer Pappas,” said Costello. “I knew because of her extensive outreach work she would be able to help with this truly worthwhile endeavor.”

In addition to familiar flowers like carnations, roses and sunflowers, the bouquets will feature exotic tropical flowers like pincushion protea, heliconia and orchids.

Safety, reliability, and accessibility upgrades completed on route, made possible by $1.96 billion in funding

MICHELLE EBANKS APPOINTED NEXT PRESIDENT AND CEO OF THE APOLLO, THE LARGEST AFRICAN AMERICAN PERFORMING ARTS ORGANIZATION IN THE NATION

EBANKS TO EXPAND MODERNIZATION OF APOLLO FACILITIES AND PROGRAM

(Black PR Wire) Harlem, NY – The Apollo announced recently the appointment of Michelle Ebanks as the next President and CEO of the nation’s foremost African American performing arts center dedicated to Black arts and culture. Ms. Ebanks has extensive leadership experience in media, entertainment, and live events. She previously served as CEO of Essence Communications, overseeing the nation’s leading media and communications company dedicated to African American women, including Essence magazine, the preeminent lifestyle magazine for African American women; Essence.com, the award-winning, daily online destination for African American women; and the internationally renowned Essence Festival of Culture, one of the largest annual live music events in the world.

Ms. Ebanks joins The Apollo—the largest African American performing arts center in the nation—at a pivotal time for the iconic organization. In addition to its new Victoria Theaters that will open later this year, The Apollo will shortly commence the first full-scale renovation of its landmarked Historic Theater and complete its $80M Apollo Rising 2.0 capital campaign. Ms. Ebanks succeeds Jonelle Procope, who over the last two decades transformed The Apollo into an internationally recognized cultural and civic nonprofit institution.

“Michelle brings to The Apollo a deep understanding in creating exciting cultural experiences for a diverse range of communities, including overseeing some of the most popular live events in the nation. At a time when performing arts organizations are looking at how best to provide opportunities for audiences who are both hungry for in-person experiences and ways to participate with programming

digitally, Michelle’s depth of knowledge will lead The Apollo to its next level of engagement with artists, audiences, and partners throughout New York, nationally and internationally,” said Apollo Board Chair Charles E. Phillips. “Michelle joins The Apollo at a time of strength, forged by Jonelle and her team over the last two decades into one of the nation’s greatest cultural institutions.”

“I’m thrilled to be joining the iconic Apollo at such an important time in its trajectory. The Apollo continues to have such a profound impact on Black culture—and American culture—locally, nationally and internationally,” said Michelle Ebanks. “It is such an exciting time as it expands its physical footprint, doubles down on supporting artists at every stage in their careers, collaborates with partners across Harlem and the world, and offers a platform

for the voices of African American artists across the diaspora.”

“For nearly nine decades, The Apollo has been a welcoming home for artists of color, a tireless advocate for Black culture and creativity, and a galvanizing force for the performing arts in New York and across the U.S. It has been an honor to lead this organization through two decades of outstanding performances, transformative educational programs, and civic advocacy,” said Jonelle Procope. “I am excited to see the innovative and forward-thinking ideas that Michelle will bring to The Apollo, and I am confident it will thrive under her leadership.”

Michelle Ebanks was President of Essence Communications Inc., where she was responsible for advancing Time Inc.’s businesses within the nation’s fastest growing population segments: African Americans and Hispanics. As President of Essence Communications Inc., Ms. Ebanks led the number one media and communications company dedicated to African American women. Comprised of media and entertainment properties with total brand reach of 12 million including Essence magazine; ESSENCE.com; and the internationally renowned Essence Festival of Culture, one of the largest annual live events in the world attracting more than 540,000 attendees to New Orleans, Louisiana. Ms. Ebanks began her career at Time Inc. as the general manager and financial director for Money magazine. Subsequently, she was a vicepresident in Time Inc.’s corporate division, where she led the acquisition of ESSENCE. Prior to joining Time Inc., she served as corporate business manager for Condé Nast’s 13 titles.

Blaylock Van Welcomes Industry Pro David B. Girton as Senior Vice President

(Black PR Wire) Indiana — Blaylock Van, LLC, the nation’s longest continuously operating Blackowned investment firm, recently welcomed David B. Girton as Senior Vice President for its growing investment banking team. Most recently, Girton served as Vice President of Institutional Sales at Sturdivant, Inc., a full-service brokerage firm. With more than three decades of experience in financial services, municipal finance, and institutional trading, Girton will be based in Indiana and cover the firm’s Midwest region.

Throughout his career, Girton has diversified his skillsets and actively co-managed several municipal transactions including water, sewer, educational facilities, airports, and stadiums. To date, he has participated in more than $10 billion of co-managed underwritings. While at Sturdivant, Girton spearheaded the company’s Indiana Project to cultivate the next generation of Wall Street leaders by introducing minority students to the vast economic opportunities in the industry and preparing them to successfully take and pass the newly enacted FINRA Securities Industry Essential

examination.

“David is recognized across the industry for his remarkable financial savvy as well as his ability to build and grow long-term client relationships, and we are thrilled to welcome him to our team as we broaden our reach across the Midwest,” said Blaylock Van CEO and President Eric Standifer. “As a company dedicated to diversity, inclusion, and the next generation, we also appreciate and admire his charitable and community work as we aim to expand our nonprofit work in the region.”

In 2010, Girton founded the Liger Financial & Trustee Education Conference which brings together trustees, plan sponsors, and money managers from across the United States to share knowledge, network, and collaborate. He has also served on several elected and appointed corporate and civic boards and currently serves on the Washington Alliance Capital Board of Directors and the Interim Study Committee on Pension Management Oversight. Girton was previously elected to the Indianapolis Public School Board of Commissioners, the largest school district in the State of Indiana, where he

served two consecutive terms.

“Blaylock Van’s commitment to diversity is unparalleled in the financial services and investment industry, going beyond talk and ideas to action and innovation,” Girton said. “I am incredibly passionate about this industry and look forward to carrying on the Blaylock Van legacy and work in Indiana and throughout the region.”

In addition, Girton has received numerous recognitions, including the Indiana Black Expo Governor’s Award, Stanley K. Lacey Leadership Class XV for emerging leaders, national recognition in Black Enterprise Magazine, named one of Ebony Magazine’s 50 Leaders of the Future, and the Indianapolis Business Journal 40 under 40, among others. He is a member of the National Association of Security Professionals.

Blaylock Van, LLC (BV) is the oldest and continuously operating Black-owned banking firm in the United States, providing personalized services for clients across the country. Clients include corporations, municipalities, investment managers, pension funds, and family offices. The firm’s headquarters are in New York City, with offices in Atlanta, Chicago, Columbus, Ohio, Dallas, Miami, and Oakland, Calif. Blaylock Van is 89 percent Black-owned. For more information, please visit https://brv-llc.com/

Gov. Pritzker Signs Legislation Authorizing a State-Based Marketplace for Health Insurance, Rate Review

CHICAGO – Governor JB Pritzker was joined by state and local officials as he signed legislation authorizing a new state-based marketplace (SBM) for Illinois, which gives state agencies additional tools to create a more consumer-focused health insurance exchange and better identify traditionally uninsured communities. The Governor also signed historic rate review legislation, which will protect health insurance consumers from unfair rate hikes.

The Illinois Department of Insurance (DOI) and the Department of Healthcare and Family Services (DHFS) will work together to implement the new legislation and coordinate with all state medical assistance programs.

“Illinois joins more than three dozen other states with similar prior approval authority in the individual and small group health insurance market,” said Lt.

Governor Juliana Stratton. “This is a win for insurance consumers and an example of our collaboration with partners in the General Assembly and beyond to improve insurance access, affordability, and transparency for Illinoisans.”

Illinois residents currently access the Affordable Care Act (ACA) Marketplace using the federal platform which the state pays a fee to use. This legislation (HB 579) will transition Illinois to a state platform, redirecting that fee to Illinois to fund the new SBM. The full state-based marketplace goes live for plan year 2026, and consumers will start enrolling via the Illinois platform during the ACA Marketplace Open Enrollment Period beginning November 1, 2025.

Currently, the federal platform does not share real-time data, and the Illinois Department of Insurance (DOI) must rely on federal CMS reports with limited

information regarding enrollment in ACA Marketplace coverage. The new legislation will help address that challenge, allowing Illinois to better target and serve uninsured communities.

The rate review bill signed into law today – HB2296 – is a monumental piece of consumer protection legislation that substantially advances health care affordability. Illinois joins 41 other states in protecting Illinois consumers and small businesses from unfair premium rate hikes.

For the first time, insurance companies will have to provide specific information about how they set their rates and the DOI will have the authority to approve, modify, or disapprove health premium rates that it determines to be unreasonable or inadequate in the individual and small group market. It also increases

transparency for consumers and small business by adding reporting requirements for insurance companies, and gives DOI the data it needs to explain to consumers and small businesses why people pay what they pay in a yearly report.

“All Illinoisans deserve access to affordable health care regardless of their zip code,” said State Senator Napoleon Harris, III (D-Harvey). “These two new laws will move our state one step closer toward this goal. Conducting vital outreach in underserved communities will help match residents with the best plan to meet their needs, reduce barriers to health care access and promote a healthy Illinois.”

During the phased-in transition, Illinois will gradually take over additional responsibilities for the state-based marketplace from federal CMS.

Great Lakes Credit Union Awards $15K in Scholarship Aid

BANNOCKBURN, Ill. (June 29, 2023)

- Great Lakes Credit Union (GLCU), in partnership with the GLCU Foundation for Financial Empowerment, is pleased to announce the six exceptional recipients of its annual Member Scholarship program. Each student will receive a $2,500 scholarship to further their education in an accredited technical school, trade school, or a four-year college or university.

GLCU’s Member Scholarship program reinforces the credit union’s deep commitment to supporting its members’ educational development and financial wellness. By aiding their academic journeys, GLCU is investing in the promising futures of its members.

“We are immensely proud of these remarkable young individuals,” said Matthew Rizzie, Executive Director of the GLCU Foundation for Financial Empowerment. “Their dedication to academic excellence and commitment to positively impacting their communities is truly inspiring. We are thrilled to support them as they take their next steps towards achieving their educational and professional goals.”

To celebrate the scholarship winners, GLCU hosted a reception at the Bannockburn headquarters. The scholarship winners enjoyed refreshments, received their award certificates, and heard encouraging speeches from GLCU President and CEO, Steve Bugg, and the Board Chair, Stephen Park.

For students to be eligible for the scholarship, they needed to be a GLCU member; planning to attend or currently attending an accredited post-secondary institution or technical vocational or trade school; and have a minimum 2.50 cumulative GPA on a 4.00 scale.

Meet the 2023 GLCU Scholarship

Recipients

The 2023 recipients are Bruno Butkus, Jared Dawkins, Kara Eng, Marco Lee, Eva Silver, and Guadalupe Vazquez. These deserving students were selected based on their outstanding academic achievements, dedication to their communities, and commitment to their future studies.

Bruno Butkus is a graduating senior from Lincoln-Way Central High School. Bruno will be attending the University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign, where he plans to major in Biology.

Jared Dawkins, a senior at Zion-Benton Township High School, will be studying Marketing & Organization and Strategic Management with a minor in Business Analytics at Washington University in St. Louis.

Kara Eng, who has completed her high school coursework through Living Truth Academy, is headed to the University of Texas at Austin to pursue Speech, Language, and Hearing Science.

Marco Lee, from Naperville North High School, has chosen St. Louis University-Student Financial Services for his International Business studies.

Eva Silver, a sophomore at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, is studying Human Development and Family Studies with an emphasis on Psychology.

Lastly, Guadalupe Vazquez, a senior at Loyola Academy, is set to attend Harvard University, where she will major in Environmental Engineering.

About Great Lakes Credit Union

Founded in 1938 and headquartered in Northern Illinois, Great Lakes Credit Union is banking for a greater good. As a not-for-profit financial cooperative with over $1.3 billion in assets, GLCU is proud to serve around 80,000 members in Chicagoland and surrounding areas, and

to give back to its members and communities through education, volunteerism, and partnerships, in collaboration with the GLCU Foundation for Financial Em-

powerment. Learn more about GLCU’s accounts, educational initiatives, and community development programs at www.glcu.org.

Photos by L.M. Warbington Photography

WINDY CITY SMOKEOUT ANNOUNCES A STELLAR 2023 BBQ LINEUP

ACM’S “Festival of the Year” Returns to Chicago July 13-16 with 30 of the World’s Best Pitmasters

Windy City Smokeout, the nation’s premier outdoor country music and BBQ festival, returns to Chicago’s iconic United Center (1901 W. Madison Street) on July 13-16, 2023. The two-time winner of the Academy of Country Music Awards “Festival of the Year,” the Windy City Smokeout will celebrate its 10th anniversary with some of country music’s biggest names and up-and-coming talents.

Headliners include GRAMMY award winner Zac Brown Band, much-decorated ACM and CMA award winner Luke Bryan, GRAMMY award winner Darius Rucker, and GRAMMY award nominee Zach Bryan. The music talent is matched by some of the best craft beer and BBQ from around the country. This year’s BBQ line-up features 30 of the world’s best pitmasters, including eight new teams, offering a mix of new school and old school ‘cue dishes throughout the festival weekend.

The full 2023 BBQ line-up includes:

RETURNING:

w Bub City - Chicago, IL

w Green Street Smoked MeatsChicago, IL

w Hogapalooza - Wynne, AR

w Hoodoo Brown BBQ - Ridgefield, CT

w Hurtado Barbecue - Arlington, TX

w LeRoy and Lewis BBQ - Austin, TX

w Lillie’s Q - Chicago, IL

w Little Miss BBQ - Phoenix, AZ

w Meat Mitch - Leawood, KS

w Operation BBQ Relief - Kansas City, MO

w Pappy’s Smokehouse - St Louis, MO

w Pearl’s Southern Comfort - Chicago, IL

w Peg Leg Porker - Nashville, TN

(SATURDAY / SUNDAY ONLY)

w Salt Lick BBQ - Driftwood, TX

w Slab Barbeque - Los Angeles, CA

w Smoke Queen Barbeque - Los Angeles, CA

w Smoque BBQ - Chicago, IL

w Soul & Smoke - Evanston, IL

w Sugarfire Smoke House - St Louis, MO

w Truth BBQ - Houston, TX

w Ubons BBQ - Yazoo City, MS

w Wright’s Barbecue - Fayetteville, AR

NEWCOMERS:

w 3 Little Pigs - Chicago, IL

(THURSDAY ONLY)

w Blues Hog - Washington, MO

w Horn Barbecue - Oakland, CA

w Joe’s Kansas City BBQKansas City, KS

w Laser Wolf - Philadelphia, PA

(FRIDAY ONLY)

w Lexington Betty’s - Chicago, IL

w Mama Fried - Austin, TX

w Panther City BBQ -

Fort Worth, TX

TICKETS + GENERAL INFORMATION

Festival passes are now on sale at www.windycitysmokeout.com. Tickets are currently priced as follows:

w GA Day Pass for Friday, July 14: $59.95

w GA Day Pass for Saturday, July 15: $79.95

w GA Day Pass for Sunday, July 16: $59.95

w VIP Day Pass for Friday, July 14: $400

w VIP Day Pass for Sunday, July 16: $400

w Platinum Pass for Saturday, July 15: $700

w Platinum Pass for Sunday, July 16: $700

*General Admission festival passes do not include food or beverage.

**VIP festival passes include access to an elevated and

covered area next to the stage, complimentary mobile charging stations, air-conditioned restrooms, access to private cash bars and an official Windy City Smokeout welcome gift.

***Platinum festival passes include deluxe climate-controlled upper deck, private, and stagepit viewing areas, complimentary mobile charging stations, VIP parking access with golf cart service to and from festival grounds, airconditioned restrooms, top shelf beer/wine/cocktails included, curated BBQ service in private dining areas, and $25 BBQ Bucks preloaded onto wristbands

The hours for Windy City Smokeout are Thursday July, 13Sunday, July 16: 1pm-10pm.

For more information and to purchase festival passes, please visit www.windy city smokeout. com, and be sure to follow all the action on Instagram at @ WindyCitySmokeout and Twitter at @WCSmokeout.

AFROPUNK BROOKLYN 2023 Announces Lineup, With Headliners

Jazmine Sullivan and Flying Lotus

Sprite Summer Campaign Honors Hip-Hop 50th Anniversary by Teaming Up with Some of the Genre’s Biggest Stars

(Black PR Wire) Sprite – a brand that has championed hip-hop culture for more than 35 years – will celebrate the groundbreaking genre’s 50th anniversary this summer with a buzzworthy TV spot starring a crew of living legends and rising stars, a new limited-edition flavor, sponsorship of one of the year’s most anticipated concert tours and a series of exclusive merch and experience drops.

Nas, Rakim, Latto and GloRilla will star in fresh Sprite creative paying tribute to the past, present and future of hip-hop. A remix of The Sugarhill Gang’s “Rapper’s Delight” – the first-ever hip-hop song to hit the Billboard Top 40 – is infused with memorable bars from the cast of old-schoolers and contemporary artists and anchors the campaign with a rapping, time-traveling love letter to the music that has shaped popular culture over the last five decades.

A.P. Chaney, Creative Director for Sprite North America, said the brand’s longstanding hip-hop credentials are unmatched.

“Our resume speaks for itself,” Chaney said. “Sprite took a chance on hip-hop before it was cool, and has always been of the culture, not only for the culture. We’ve shown up for both moments big and small, amplifying the endless possibilities of the now-omnipresent hip-hop lifestyle and its profound impact on music, sports and fashion. So, it’s only fitting that we pay homage to all hip-hop has been, is and will be.”

Just as the campaign will honor hip-hop history, the new limited-time-only (LTO) Sprite Lymonade Legacy is a remixed nod to the OG crisp, lemon-lime refresher. Sprite’s take on strawberry lemonade, which was inspired by fan requests on social media, offers a delicious combination of tried-and-true and something new. The LTO flavor will be available in a range of packages at retailers nationwide, and exclusively in fountain and frozen formats at 7-Eleven stores.

Summer of Drops

Original Sprite and Sprite Lymonade Legacy packaging will feature a fresh design celebrating 50 years of hip-hop. The look takes cues from summer and the crisp, refreshing taste of Sprite, as well as boomboxes, studio mixers and other tech tools synonymous with hip-hop’s journey.

Fans can scan on-pack QR codes on both products throughout the summer to access digital “drop shops” with hundreds of giveaways. Prizes include exclusive content featuring Latto and Rakim and covetable merch including autographed Nas

hats, GloRilla tour tees, a Latto gold mic, and Rakim directorial slates from the TVC shoot.

“Our ‘Summer of Drops’ focuses on our fans’ passion points – music, fashion, art and entertainment – and draws inspiration from sneakerhead drop culture,” said Aaliyah Shafiq Ely, VP, Sparkling Flavors Category. “The diverse array of prizes offers something for everyone to get excited about, and our overall campaign is the latest example of Sprite responding to what fans want with both experiences and products.”

Premier experiential giveaways include Rolling Loud Lifetime Passes and meet-and-greet tickets for Drake’s “It’s All A Blur” summer tour, which will feature Sprite as the lead beverage sponsor. Drake has partnered with Sprite for more than a decade, starting with the “Spark” multinational campaign in 2012 – his first worldwide deal – and continuing with 2015’s “Obey Your Verse.” The 57-date arena tour marks the hip-hop megastar’s first series of concerts in five years.

Obeying Thirst and the Verse for 37 Years

Sprite’s ties to hip-hop date back to 1986, when rapper Kurtis Blow was cast in the “Now More Than Ever” spot, becoming one of the first hip-hop artists featured in a national, mainstream ad. The commercial inspired the “I Like The Sprite In You” ads featuring popular artists like LL Cool J and Kris Kross. The 90s brought a deeper dive into the genre with the “Obey Your Thirst” campaign starring Pete Rock & C.L. Smooth, A Tribe Called Quest and Grand Puba (who reportedly coined the slogan “Obey Your Thirst” during a rehearsal). Legendary rapper – and star of this summer’s campaign – Nas made his Sprite debut alongside AZ on the stoop in 1997. Sprite advertising in the aughts embraced hiphop’s next generation of stars.

In 2013, “Obey Your Verse” celebrated the artistry of 2Pac, Missy Elliott, J. Cole, Drake and Rakim by decorating Sprite cans with some of their most inspirational lyrics. Rakim, who also stars in this summer’s campaign, first appeared in a Sprite ad with 2016’s “Obey Your Verse – Lyrical Collection” spot.

Sprite’s support of the creators and arbiters of hip-hop continued with 2021’s virtual “Live From The Label” concert series featuring Latto – also in this summer’s campaign – as well as Saweetie, Jack Harlow and more.

Visit Sprite.com and follow the brand on Instagram for more details on the summer campaign.

(Black PR Wire) NEW YORK -- (BUSINESS WIRE) -- AFROPUNK is a global movement, exploring all aspects of Black culture with events across multiple states and continents, but Brooklyn remains its home. Celebrating great music and vibrant culture in its home borough once again, AFROPUNK announces the lineup for AFROPUNK BROOKLYN 2023. Debuting at a new venue, Greenpoint Terminal Market, with an accompanying new theme, AFROPUNK BROOKLYN recruits two brand new headliners: iconic R&B singer & songwriter Jazmine Sullivan, makes her AFROPUNK headliner debut, where she will flex her astounding vocal muscles and perform music from her award-winning project Heaux Tales, while game-changing producer Flying Lotus will bring his cosmic live show to the historic waterfront. With additional performances from some of the most vital artists in music today, AFROPUNK returns to Brooklyn on August 26-27, 2023 at Greenpoint Terminal Market.

In addition to this year’s masterful headliners, AFROPUNK BROOKLYN 2023 promises a lineup full of some of the hottest artists in music today. The lineup runs a wide range of styles, welcoming Hip-Hop artists including Brooklyn’s own Joey Bada$$, as well as Vince Staples, Toby Nwigwe, and Baby Tate, acclaimed jazz singler Madison McFerrin, NY rap vets the Beatnuts, trailblazing singers like Sudan Archives, Durand Bernarr, Dreamer Isioma, and the Brooklyn-born Iniko, South African amapiano producer DBN Gogo, and many, many more.

This year, AFROPUNK BROOKLYN debuts a brand new venue: Greenpoint Terminal Market. Located on the banks of the East River, with unbeatable views of the Manhattan skyline, Greenpoint Market provides a picturesque location for the performances and trademark AFROPUNK activations, including the Spinthrift Market and AFROPUNK’s Bites ‘n Beats. AFROPUNK will transform the space, adding lawns, trees, and other shade structures to allow for a soothing and soulful day outside. This year’s event in Brooklyn will introduce a new theme–CIRCUS OF SOUL–transforming the riverside blacktop into a carnivalesque exhibition that spotlights all aspects of Black creativity, soundtracked by music that speaks to the heart of the Black experience. Expect many more activations, showcasing the artistry of local vendors and more, to be announced soon.

AFROPUNK is more than just an event, it’s a celebration of life, music, food, and culture in the Black community. AFROPUNK has established a legacy as a safe space for Black alternative culture, offering a haven for attendees to show up as their most authentic selves. The end result of which is always a stunning community of people who respect, admire, and care for one another; it’s an experience unlike any other. Brooklyn is AFROPUNK’s home–where it started in 2004–reliably turning out the most creative individuals in the borough to dress up and turn up.

In 2022, AFROPUNK made a triumphant return to NYC with AFROPUNK BROOKLYN 2022, the first edition of the organization’s flagship event in over three years. Headlined by Burna Boy and The Roots, last year’s AFROPUNK BROOKLYN brought additional performances from the likes of Earl Sweatshirt, Tierra Whack, Isaiah Rashad, Lucky Daye, Doechii, Freddie Gibbs, Adekunle Gold, and many more.

AFROPUNK’s celebration of all aspects of Black culture continued this past winter, with AFROPUNK + Lincoln Center: Black HERSTORY Live, a two-day takeover of Lincoln Center celebrating Black women and their contribution to arts and culture, featuring performances from artists like india.arie, UMI, and Danielle Ponder, plus poetry, dance, and more. Black HERSTORY Live continued the momentum from an ambitious 2022, which included Planet AFROPUNK Live events in Miami, Minneapolis, and Bahia, Brazil.

With AFROPUNK BROOKLYN 2023 on the calendar and more announcements to come, AFROPUNK is one of the most vital and vibrant cultural institutions in New York City and beyond.

To purchase tickets for this year’s two-day event, please visit: here. For updates about AFROPUNK BROOKLYN 2023, please join our text community, sign-up for our newsletter and visit: https:// afropunk.com/festival/brooklyn/

Lawyers’ Committee for Civil Rights Under Law Recognizes 60 Years of Fighting for Racial Justice

John Brittain, William Robinson, and Kristen Clarke were honored during the anniversary celebration. Lloyd Cutler and Ernest N. Morial also were lauded posthumously for their transformative contributions to the fight for racial justice.

The Lawyers’ Committee for Civil Rights Under Law is celebrating 60 years of action using legal advocacy to achieve racial justice, fighting inside and outside the courts to ensure that Black people and other people of color have the voice, opportunity, and power to make the promises of democracy real. The nonpartisan, nonprofit organization mobilizes the private bar’s leadership and resources in combating racial discrimination and the resulting inequality of opportunity.

On Tuesday, June 20, the Lawyers’ Committee marked its 60th anniversary with a signature event at the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts. This special evening honored the organization’s founding and victories

achieved over the years while also reaffirming its commitment to realizing “The Future We Deserve.”

Founded on June 21, 1963, at the request of President John F. Kennedy,

the Lawyers’ Committee has spent six decades fighting for issues including voting rights, affirmative action, and digital justice. The Lawyers’ Committee stands on the front lines of the

most pressing and complex civil rights problems, using litigation, public education, and other advocacy tools to address discrimination, advance the law and take defensive action when necessary to safeguard fragile gains.

“As we commemorate our 60th anniversary, we look back with pride on a history marked by resilience and triumph in the face of adversity. The Lawyers’ Committee was created to confront and conquer the profound injustices facing Black people and other people of color,” said Damon T. Hewitt, President, and Executive Director of the Lawyers’ Committee. “As we look to the future, we draw strength from our foundation with unshaken resolve. We persist in our pursuit of a society where the ideals of democracy are not just abstract concepts but lived realities for the communities we serve. Together, we can build a future we deserve — a future illuminated by justice, equality, and enduring opportunity.”

Comcast Announces $4.5 Million Grant to Per Scholas

(Black PR Wire) PHILADELPHIA -- (BUSINESS WIRE) -- Comcast Corporation announced a new $4.5 million, three-year grant to Per Scholas, a leading national nonprofit advancing economic equity through tech training and career building. The investment will enable more than 10,000 diverse adults across 15 markets to launch new tech careers, empowering individuals from low-wealth communities to earn a collective $450 million in new wages alone. Notably, the funding will also support Per Scholas expansion to three new markets in need of skilled technologists for digital economies — allowing for even greater community impact.

“The key to closing the digital divide goes beyond just mere access to the Internet,” said Dalila Wilson-Scott , EVP and Chief Diversity Officer for Comcast Corporation & President of the Comcast NBCUniversal Foundation. “With nearly one-third of U.S. workers lacking the basic digital skills needed to function and compete in our increasingly digital job market, we need urgent focus on digital literacy and technical skilling — particularly in communities of color. By continuing our partnership with Per Scholas, we are helping to produce measurable outcomes that will create a more prepared and inclusive workforce and better ensure that no community is left behind.”

Since 2021, the Per Scholas-Comcast partnership has resulted in more than 2,500 trained learners across a dozen markets, empowering nearly 1,700 graduates to

launch tech careers, generating more than $76 million in collective new earnings. Through this new three-year grant and market expansion, Per Scholas learners will graduate from the “10,000 Accessible Careers in Tech” program equipped with in-demand technical and professional skills that prepares them to succeed in technology careers, with in-house support to identify employment opportunities during and post-graduation.

Per Scholas current training tracks include AWS re/Start, Cybersecurity, IT Support, Java Development, and Software Engineering.

“Comcast continually helps Per Scholas unlock potential, building a future of unlimited possibilities,” said Plinio Ayala, President and CEO of Per Scholas. “Our partnership is powerful — Comcast is investing in communities, ensuring digital skills are ubiquitous across America, and hiring Per Scholas-trained technologists. Because of Comcast’s support, we just celebrated our inaugural graduation in Indianapolis, and I’m looking forward to making impact together in cities and communities that could benefit most from Per Scholas’s nationally-recognized, proven tech skills training.”

The 15 markets where the Per Scholas-Comcast partnership is making a difference every day include Atlanta, Baltimore, Greater Boston, Chicago, Detroit, Indianapolis, Orlando, the National Capital Region, Newark, Philadelphia, Pittsburgh, Seattle, New York, and two new cities to be announced soon. The Per Scholas grant announcement is part of a $25 million comprehensive funding initiative specifically targeted at creating eco-

nomic opportunity through digital skills building in 2023, and Project UP, Comcast’s $1 billion commitment to help advance digital equity and build a future of unlimited possibilities.

Comcast Corporation (Nasdaq: CMCSA) is a global media and technology company. From the connectivity and platforms we provide, to the content and experiences we create, our businesses reach hundreds of millions of customers, viewers, and guests worldwide. We deliver world-class broadband, wireless, and video through Xfinity, Comcast Business, and Sky; produce, distribute, and stream leading entertainment, sports, and news through brands including NBC, Telemundo, Universal, Peacock, and Sky; and bring incredible theme parks and attractions to life through Universal Destinations & Experiences.

For more than 25 years, Per Scholas has been advancing equity and increasing opportunity across America. Per Scholas unlocks potential for individuals, communities, and employers through rigorous training for careers in tech. Partnering with dynamic employer partners, from Fortune 500 companies to innovative startups, we are building sustainable and diverse talent pipelines, together changing the face of tech. With national remote training and campuses in 20+ cities and growing, Per Scholas offers tuition-free training in the most in-demand tech skills, including Cloud, Cybersecurity, Data Engineering, IT Support, Software Engineering, and more. To date, more than 20,000 individuals have gained the skills to launch high-growth tech careers, earning three times their pre-training wage. Diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging is in our DNA: 85 percent of learners are people of color, two in five are women, and more than half have a high school diploma as their highest education credential. Learn more by visiting PerScholas.org and follow us on LinkedIn, Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube.

Lawyers’ Committee for Civil Rights Under Law

Black PR Wire

How to Put Your Passion and Skills to Work in the Peace Corps

(StatePoint) Since President John F. Kennedy established the Peace Corps in 1961, more than 240,000 Americans have served in 143 countries worldwide.

The agency has high needs for volunteers to deliver on its mission of world peace and friendship, particularly in the agriculture, health, education and youth-

in-development sectors.

In more than 60 countries, Peace Corps volunteers are putting their purpose, passion and skills to work in partnership with welcoming host communities – growing, teaching, learning and making change. Peace Corps volunteers

live and work alongside community members on locally prioritized projects, receiving a stipend and other support as they immerse themselves in a new culture. They build relationships, exchange knowledge and help transform lives for generations.

The Immersive Volunteer Experience

The Peace Corps volunteer program is often called life-defining by the more than 240,000 Americans who have served.

Volunteers get the chance to fully integrate into a host country community, where they live and work on projects ranging from education to business development

To be considered for global service, adult U.S. citizens should apply at peacecorps.gov/apply. Applications will be accepted on an ongoing basis.

As part of its recruitment campaign, the Peace Corps is sharing a few essential things that potential volunteers need to know about service:

• Fast facts: Volunteers typically serve for 2 years, with an additional 3 months of training. These assignments are great for recent college graduates, retirees, career changers or anyone looking to make a difference in the world.

Additionally, there are 3-12 month service options ideal for experienced professionals and returned volunteers for specialized, high-impact, short-term assignments and part-time virtual opportunities.

• What volunteers do: Volunteers live and work alongside the people they serve, collaborating with local governments, schools, small businesses and entrepreneurs to create sustainable, community-based projects that address local development priorities across six sectors.

• Post-service: Serving in the Peace Corps is a viable way to launch a career. It gives volunteers the skills needed in today’s global economy. In addition to rigorous technical training at the start of service and regular opportunities to gain new skills related to work, language, culture and safety, the Peace Corps offers graduate school benefits and career support specifically tailored to volunteers when they return home to help them prepare for their next step. For more recruitment information and to learn more, visit peacecorps.gov/volunteer/connect-witha-recruiter/. Whether you’re a recent college graduate or a retiree, you may have what it takes to make a lasting impact overseas through Peace Corps service.

PHOTO SOURCE: Courtesy of the Peace Corps