South Suburban Citizen 7-26-2023

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

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

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

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

HEALING Response Act:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Entrepreneur receives grant and resources to expand business

Continued from page 1

BY TIA CAROL JONES

During its three years in existence, it has disrupted the floral industry by changing the way people engage with flowers.

Boone is one of 20 women entrepreneurs who have been chosen as recipients of the IFundWomen Grant program, which is a partnership between BOTOX Cosmetic and IFundWomen.

As part of the grant program, Boone will engage in a 10-week Crowdfunding Accelerator Program. She will receive coaching on public relations, network mapping, content marketing and social media. The goal is for Boone and the rest of the business owners to refine and optimize their business strategies. Leaders from BOTOX will also be joining the coaches from IFundWomen.

“Black women founders are among the most underfunded founders out there. It costs money to build businesses and for the first five years of almost any small business or any startup, you’re in the red. Without outside funding it’s almost impossible to grow a successful business,” Boone said.

Boone added, grants have made it possible for her to grow and build Postal Petals. Not only did the IFundWomen grant come with funds, there also is coaching and mentorship. Boone felt those could be helpful to the growth trajectory of Postal Petals.

Boone will use the grant funding of $25,000 to build out a sales team, to start to secure B2B clients for Postal Petals, as well as hire a COO and to rebuild and refresh the website. Rebuilding and refreshing the website is important for Postal Petals as an e-commerce website.

“There’s been so much growth with the company and so many things we do on the consumer side and in the B2B sector that is not widely known, or the story isn’t being fully told on our website, so we’re excited to update

our website to do that,” she said.

Along with brand awareness and getting their message out, Boone is trying to get the message out about why people should use Postal Petals. Because it is a DoIt-Yourself flower arranging delivery service, Postal Petals is trying to evolve people’s relationships with flowers, and turn that relationship into one that is more of an interactive and creative experience. Boone believes it can happen with more messaging and explaining on the website. It is something that can now happen as a result of Boone receiving the grant money.

Boone is really excited about the coaching and mentorship component of the grant program. BOTOX has significant resources with teams who specialize in different aspects of running a cosmetics company, including marketing and advertising. It is impactful for Boone to learn how to strategize marketing from the BOTOX team. It has her thinking of ways she can implement those strategies for her own business.

There also is a crowdfunding mechanism that Boone has been learning from IFundWomen. It is another great resource for Postal Petals to create a crowdfunding program. There were 6,500 women owned businesses that applied to the grant. Boone is a solo founder doing something that hasn’t been done before.

“It just felt really good to be seen. It felt really good to have someone say, we see what you’re doing and we see value in what you’re doing and we want to give you resources for you to continue the work that you’re doing,” she said, adding it is something that is necessary on the founder journey, to have that recognition. “To have someone really just see you, acknowledge you and want to honor the work you’re doing and support the work you’re doing by writing a check of that size, it means a lot. It felt very good and much needed.”

For more information about Postal Petals, visit www.postalpetals.com. For more information about the IFundWomen Grant Program, visit www.ifundwomen.com.

Treasurer Frerichs Invites Nonprofits to Apply for $200,000 in Charitable Trust Grants

SPRINGFIELD – Small nonprofits that help people with housing or workforce and economic development assistance are encouraged to apply for funding through the Charitable Trust Stabilization Program, Illinois State Treasurer Michael Frerichs said today. Grant applications will be accepted through Sept. 30.

“We are helping these organizations fulfill their important role in securing housing, employment, and job training for people in need,” said Frerichs, whose office manages the program. “The Charitable Trust program offers an excellent opportunity for small non-profits to have an even greater impact on the people they serve.”

The Charitable Trust Stabilization Fund assists small nonprofits with annual budgets of $1 million or less. The fund’s money comes from filing fees that nonprofits pay when incorporating in the state of Illinois – not from personal or property tax dollars.

For the second grant cycle of 2023, up to $200,000 is available. The maximum award amount is $20,000 for each organization. An independent 11-member committee, which

oversees the management and guidelines of the fund, will select the grant recipients.

Previous grant recipients are eligible to apply if the term of their grant has been complete for at least one calendar year.

Since the grant program was established in 2017, more than $4.1 million has been awarded to 178 nonprofit organizations through the Charitable Trust Stabilization Fund.

After the September close date, the next Charitable Trust grant cycle will be in 2024, from Jan. 1 to March 31, and will award grants to nonprofits that provide people with housing and food. Visit ilcharitabletrust.com to complete an application online or contact the treasurer’s office at (217) 836-4590.

The Illinois State Treasurer’s Office is a powerful economic engine that invests in people to drive prosperity, development and growth throughout the state. As State Treasurer, Michael Frerichs (FRAIR’-iks) is the state’s Chief Investment and Banking Officer and actively manages approximately $55 billion. The investments help families pay for college and trade school; workers save for a dignified retirement; and local governments process bill payments more efficiently

Talia Boone launched Postal Petals, a do-it-yourself floral arrangement delivery service in 2020 as a way to change how people engage with flowers. PHOTO PROVIDED BY TALIA BOONE.

Rep. Kelly, with Reps. Clarke and Watson Coleman, Introduces The Stephanie Tubbs Jones Uterine Fibroid Research and Education Act

WASHINGTON D.C. – Congresswoman Robin Kelly joined her fellow co-chairs of the Congressional Caucus on Black Women and Girls, Congresswoman Clarke and Congresswoman Watson Coleman, to introduce the Stephanie Tubbs Jones Uterine Fibroid Research And Education Act of 2023, which would revolutionize uterine fibroid care in the nation and acknowledge fibroids as the serious health crisis it is.

Specifically, the bill would:

Establish new research funding through NIH, totaling $150 million over five years;

Expand a CMS database on chronic conditions to include information on services provided to individuals with fibroids; Create a public education program through the CDC; and

Direct HRSA to develop and dissem-

inate fibroids information to health care providers.

The bill also highlights the need for improved patient and provider education surrounding the heightened risk for fibroids faced by women of color.

“An estimated 26 million people in the United States suffer from uterine fibroids. Symptoms can be debilitating, and diagnosis and treatment is often difficult to access and can impact fertility. I’m proud to support this legislation to better understand uterine fibroids and develop more effective treatments. This research is especially important for Black women, who are three times more likely than other groups to develop uterine fibroids. This bill will establish funding to increase research and awareness of uterine fibroids, and to improve access to treatment options for those suffering from uterine fibroids,” said Congresswoman Robin Kelly.

“In a nation where approximately 25 percent of all Black women will suffer from uterine fibroids before their 25th birthday, there exists a glaring, tragic health inequity that must be addressed,” said Congresswoman Clarke. “Fibroids have ravaged the lives of women — particularly in the Black community — across the country, and increasing funding for research and public education related to fibroids is critical to reversing this devastating trend. The Stephanie Tubbs Jones Uterine Fibroid Research and Education Act is an important step towards prioritizing women’s healthcare with the urgency it warrants.”

must empower women with the knowledge and resources they need to make informed decisions about their health.”

“That there are still so many unknowns about uterine fibroids, especially given their prevalence and burden, is unacceptable,” said Kathryn G. Schubert, MPP, President and CEO of the Society for Women’s Health Research. “It has been 16 years since the Stephanie Tubbs Jones Uterine Fibroid Research and Education Act was first introduced. Women’s health research is underfunded and undervalued, and the lack of attention to uterine fibroids and the health disparities associated with them are illustrative that we are long past due for action on this legislation. SWHR is grateful to Congresswoman Clarke for her continued efforts to take this legislation across the finish line and encourages other members of Congress to expeditiously pass this important legislation.”

“Fibroids are not just the woman’s diagnosis. When a health concern impacts 26 million women, it becomes a national health concern. Legislation to address fibroids, the most frequently diagnosed gynecologic tumor in all women, is desperately needed. We applaud Congresswoman Clarke and Congresswoman Watson Coleman for their leadership in introducing the Fibroid Bill,” said Sateria Venable, Founder and CEO of The Fibroid Foundation.

SIMMONS CELEBRATES EXPANDED REHABILITATION LAWS FOR RETURNING CITIZENS

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

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

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

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

Senate Bill 2175 was signed into law on Friday.

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

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“Black women are more likely to be at risk of uterine fibroids and suffer from complications that affect their everyday lives,” said Congresswoman Bonnie Watson Coleman. “These burdens contribute to greater overall lifetime stress, decreasing the quality of life. Fibroids are a public health issue, and I join my colleagues in advancing legislation that provides resources to relieve this suffering for women and girls everywhere.”

“Millions of Americans, especially Black women, are living with uterine fibroids and suffering from its devastating health impacts,” said Senator Booker.

“We must continue raising awareness and investing in diagnostic and treatment options to alleviate the burden of uterine fibroids. I am proud to join my colleagues in introducing this important legislation that will expand research efforts, improve public awareness, and promote evidence-based care for uterine fibroids. We

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ELIZABETH “LIZZIE G” ELIE LICENSED REALTOR

“The introduction of the Stephanie Tubbs Jones Uterine Fibroid Research and Education Act of 2023 is a monumental step in the movement towards uterine fibroid research to uncover much-needed answers for people managing life with uterine fibroids. We are thrilled and grateful to Congresswoman Clarke for her actions and commitment to ensuring uterine fibroids research is a priority,” said Tanika Gray Valbrun, Founder and CEO of the White Dress Project. “As a community of patients and caregivers, The White Dress Project is committed to doing everything we can to ensure lawmakers understand how important these research dollars are. We live with the reality of a condition that comes with more questions than answers. Our stories, our experience, and our voice matters.”

For the full text of the Stephanie Tubbs Jones Uterine Fibroid Research And Education Act of 2023, visit https://tinyurl.com/2e6bw8dy.

Treasurer Frerichs Invites Nonprofits to Apply for $200,000 in Charitable Trust Grants

FRERICHS... Continued From Page 2

so they can pass along the savings to taxpayers. The office provides financial institutions money to loan to farmers, small business owners, and qualified individuals at below-market rates because better jobs create stronger communities. The office operates the state’s largest consumer-protection initiative, the unclaimed property I-Cash

program, which has returned a record breaking $1.8 billion since Frerichs was elected.

For more news about the State Treasurer’s Office, please follow Treasurer Frerichs on Twitter, at @ILTreasurer, Instagram at ILTreasurer, at Linkedin and on Facebook at Invested in You – Treasurer Michael Frerichs.

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

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

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

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

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

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

5 ways to build or rebuild your credit

SPONSORED BY JPMORGAN CHASE & CO.

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

1

4Practice good financial habits in other areas

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

Find

out your current credit score

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

2

Apply

for a credit card

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

5

gent about practicing healthy credit habits.

3 Address debt impacting your score

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

Help your children build credit

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Eligible borrowers will be informed by the Department

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Jackie Jackson Kilwins Chicago

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

CB2 Unveils Global Collection of Works from Black Designers and Artists

The Black in Design Collective represents excellence in design, expertly curated by longtime design partner Evan Jerry of Studio ANANSI.

CHICAGO, PRNewswire -- CB2 has launched a new collection of works designed exclusively by Black artists and designers around the globe, titled the Black in Design Collective. The Collective features ten new designers, brought together and mentored by Evan Jerry, the designer and artist behind many CB2 statement-makers such as the T Marble Side Table and the Marisa Burl Wood Desk. The pieces in the collection make up a conscientious and dynamic assortment representative of Black excellence in design, with each designer infusing their varied cultural influences. Sourced from the streets of Paris, France and Lagos, Nigeria to the shores of the Caribbean islands, the collection spans cultures across furniture and home accessories.

“Our industry is evolving and it’s important for us to be a part of that conversation and change. We feel the collective is not only a meaningful step for the brand but also retail at scale,” says CB2 President Ryan Turf. “CB2 is privileged to have the participation of several talented designers who are not only representative of accomplished Black figures in design but also of celebrated leaders within the industry as a whole.”

Pushing toward new narratives, particularly Black storytelling through design, has been the core of Evan Jerry’s own brand, Studio ANANSI, from its conception. Through his existing relationship and design partnership, Evan Jerry and CB2 worked together to showcase a global collection of works by both emerging and renowned Black designers.

“The pieces throughout the Collective take an avant garde approach to the expected visual representations of Black interior aesthetics,” says Evan Jerry. “This project was conceived to allow space for designers to explore and present some of the many perspectives in which people connect and identify as Black through objects, something many designers never had the opportunity to explore or express previously.”

This new collective of designers creates a body of work that represents the Black Diaspora and informs a more diverse view of high design. It also supports CB2’s commit-

ment to the Fifteen Percent Pledge, a movement to create sustainable and supportive ecosystems for Black-owned businesses, with a goal of having 15 percent of products and collaborations represented by Black businesses, artists and designers by 2024. The Black in Design Collective is now available exclusively at cb2.com, featuring 66 unique SKUs across living, lighting, textiles, decor and entertainment categories ranging in price from $9.95 to $3,999.

Design highlights from each designer include:

Arc Bronze Velvet Bench: The bench features two seats with a center “U”-shaped structure symbolizing unity within the Black community and the Black in Design Collective specifically. (Designed by Evan Jerry of Studio ANANSI, based in Nova Scotia, Canada)

Barber Upholstered Dining Chair: Designed to resemble the barbershop and salon chairs prevalent in Harlem—a chair that represents a ritual central to the Black experience—Luam Melake’s bold dining chair design features a solid iron frame with clean, decisive angles, polished nickel finish and a channel-tufted seat. (Designed by Luam Melake, based in New York, New York)

Chert White Porcelain Dinnerware: A subtly textured edge, echoing the aesthetic of hand-chipped stone objects, makes each piece of this porcelain dinnerware stand out on its own. (Designed by Garth Roberts of garth™, based in Berlin, Germany)

Cornrows Handloomed Viscose Ivory/Black Rug: Two “heads” meet in this rug designed to honor the bond between Black women and their shared pride in their hair and care for each other. (Designed by Monet Masters and Tavia Forbes of Forbes Masters, based in Atlanta, Georgia)

Dome Round Black Oak Wood Coffee Table: This remarkable piece draws inspiration from Kikuyu cosmology and the traditional 4-legged Kikuyu stools made specifically for women out of singular tree trunks—a stool often found in the center of the “nyumba” or home. (Designed by Sandra Githinji of Sandra Githinji Studio, based in Naarm (Melbourne), Australia)

Jalousie Round Polished Aluminum Side Table: Made

from cast aluminum and designed to look like a rigid, stacked checkerboard, the side table, inspired by the louvered windows and shutters found on homes in the Grenadines, appears paper-thin and lightweight. (Designed by Jerome Byron, based in Los Angeles, California)

Luana Woven Vase Basket: The black decorative vase, hand-woven of rattan, is inspired by the ancient craft of basketry and its connection between earth and hand. (Designed by Élan Byrd, based in Miami, Florida)

Meji Mirror: Meaning two in the Yoruba language of Nigeria, the “Meji” Mirror is casted entirely from brass in one piece. The silhouette of this frame draws inspiration from Nigerian cultural symbols including the Nsibidi unity symbol. (Designed by Lani Adeoye of Studio Lani, based in Lagos, Nigeria and New York, New York)

Tol Seating: Reminiscent of the substantial furniture commonly found in the Caribbean, this seating mixes materials and tradition with a powder-coated frame in lieu of traditional wood, and boucle or leather hide. (Designed by Axel Mert of studio satël, based in Nantes, France)

La Traversée Acacia Wood Console Table: At first glance, the console table appears to be a singular piece of wood. In actuality, it’s supported by small crosspieces inspired by the French phrase “La traversée”—referencing the crossing of the Atlantic Sea by Black people in the 18th century in search of emancipation to express both a painful movement of people torn from their country and a kind of dynamism of their descendants to emancipate themselves. (Designed by Jean-Marc Bullet of ATELIER BULLET, based in Martinique)

Zel Lighting Collection: Inspired by the oversized tropical plants that flourish along rivers in Guadeloupe, the Zel Table Lamp and Zel Chandelier feature a polished unlacquered brass shade shaped in the form of a leaf. (Designed by Dimitri Zephir of dach+zephir, based in Paris, France and Guadeloupe)

For more information, visit cb2.com or follow us on Instagram, Pinterest or TikTok.

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

BY HAZEL TRICE EDNEY (TriceEdneyWire.com)

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Kalanick also has a significant

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

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

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

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

* Best Colleges Online.

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

THE CITY OF CALUMET CITY AND LOCAL OFFICIALS ARE SET TO OPEN THE DOORS OF HIGHLY ANTICIPATED LIBRARY CAFE HONORING LATE TECHNOLOGY LEADER IN COMMUNITY ROB MCGEE

The City of Calumet City is thrilled to announce the grand opening of The Calumet City Library Cafe, which has formally been named “McGee Cafe.” This momentous occasion will mark the celebration of Rob McGee Day, a tribute to a beloved figure who served as a pillar of the Calumet City community for many years. The dedication ceremony will commence on Wednesday, July 19th, at 4:30 PM, followed by the official program starting at 5:30 PM.

Rob McGee was a notable leader of the Calumet City community who devoted his life to the betterment of helping others and became a reliable resource for the growing direction of technology in Calumet City. He tirelessly worked to foster a sense of unity and belonging among the community members, leaving an undeniable mark on the city's history. In recognition of his priceless contributions, The Calumet City Library Cafe has chosen to honor his legacy by dedicating its new cafe to his memory.

The McGee Cafe, located within the east wing of the Calumet City Library, will serve as a vibrant and welcoming space where residents can come together to relax, socialize, and enjoy a variety of refreshments. With its cozy ambiance and delicious menu, the cafe aims to create a warm and inviting atmosphere for individuals of all ages to connect and engage with one another.

The grand opening ceremony promises to be a remarkable event, bringing together esteemed community members, local officials, and residents to commemorate the life and accomplishments of Rob McGee. The program will include heartfelt speeches, live music performances, and a ribbon-cutting ceremony, symbolizing the official opening of the McGee Cafe.

Mayor Thaddeus Jones expressed his excitement about the forthcoming event, stating, "We are proud to honor the memory of Rob McGee, a true community leader and advocate, by dedicating this new cafe in his name. The McGee Cafe will not only serve as a tribute to his contributions but also as a place where the community can gather and continue to build upon his legacy.”

The Calumet City Library Cafe is eager to extend an open invitation to all residents, local business owners, and community organizations to attend this momentous occasion. By joining together in celebration, the community can demonstrate their gratitude for Rob McGee's invaluable service and embrace the spirit of unity that he exemplified.

For more information, please visit Calumet City Public Library or contact (708)- 862-6220.

(Mother-In-Law) Gwendolyn Fitzpatrick of Rob McGee, Daughter Tia McGee, RJ McGee, Mayor Thaddeus Jones, and First Lady Saprina Jones

Mayor Thaddeus Jones and family of Rob McGee (His Son "RJ McGee" cutting the ribbon) Photos courtesy of the City of Calumet City

Wife of Rob McGee Latrice McGee, Son "RJ" McGee, Mother of Rob Mcgee (Betty McGee) Photos courtesy of the City of Calumet City

RENTAL

Upscale, nice, clean, furnished or unfurnished, 2 chair hair salon; prime Chatham / Grand Crossing location, near 78th & Cottage Grove; heat & water included; available now.

DOGS PETS LIVESTOCK

Use Happy Jack® DD-33 on dogs & cats to kill fleas and deer ticks on contact. At Tractor Supply® (www.happyjackinc.com)

EDUCATION

Tips to Get Your Student Prepped for College Entrance Exams

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

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

• Have the right STEM tools: Acing the math portion is easier when you fully understand the principles behind the test questions. Fortunately, you can affordably equip your student with tools that facilitate that understanding. Casio, dedicated to making STEM education more engaging, has developed the fx-CG50, a graphing calculator in the brand’s PRIZM line-up that offers a color LCD with a full textbook-style display. Jam-packed with features that enable students to solve the most challenging equations, it offers the ability to easily draw three dimensional graphs such as planes, cylinders and spheres, and view them from various angles in order to better analyze their shape. Plus, a cross-section option and special zoom function can be used for greater analysis.

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

• Take a break: It’s tempting to assume a last-minute study session the

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

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

FAMILY LIVING

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

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

Notes and Big Ideas

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

G2 is available in four point sizes and over 35 colors, so it’s ideal for note-taking, writing down big ideas, goal-setting and more.

Planning and Scheduling

With the back-to-school season comes a flurry of planning and scheduling -from after-school activities to field trips.

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

Lockers, Backpacks and Desks

Use organizational tools anywhere school supplies are stored, such as lockers, backpacks and home study areas. Simple shelving and magnetic door organizers can maximize storage potential in any locker, whereas a backpack with multiple pockets allows you to arrange items by subject. Periodically empty your backpack completely; you may be surprised by the loose papers you find at the bottom. Use the opportunity to re-

order items as-needed and to wipe down the bag’s interior. Parents and kids should keep clutter to a minimum in home workspaces with filing systems and supply trays. This will help prevent important papers and other items from going missing and improve productivity.

STATEPOINT CROSSWORD

THEME: FINISH THE LYRICS

ACROSS

1. *"Back in ____ I hit the sack"

6. Lavatory, abbr.

9. Arctic floater

13. Revered Hindu

14. Three, to Caesar

15. Poison ampules, e.g.

16. Neckwear option

Down to the Details If you’re smudge-prone, use quick-dry ink for effortlessly clean lines. When it’s time to study, this will make reading your notes a lot easier. Pilot’s Precise Rolling Ball,

17. *"Sometimes it's hard to be a woman, giving ____ your love to just one man"

18. Most populous country

19. *"It's going down, I'm yelling ____"

21. *"Sugarpie honeybunch, you know that I ____ ____"

23. Act on IOU

24. Spanish sparkling wine

25. Mel ____, Giant Hall-of-Famer

28. Garbage in, garbage out, acr.

30. *"If everybody had an ocean ____ the U.S.A., then everybody'd be surfing" 35. Less than average tide

available in capped and retractable styles, features a precision tip -- great for organized notes and homework. For more back-to-school inspiration and tips, visit powertothepen.com. Staying organized is easier said

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

Eshe Ukweli Howard UniversityNNPA Fellow

Solomon Hayes Morehouse CollegeNNPA Fellow

Brielle Smith Howard UniversityNNPA Fellow

Jacob Bellevue Howard University

NNPA Fellow Antonio

NNPA Fellow Jada Tullos Alabama

Marketing Fellow