South Suburban Citizen 9-29-2023

HELPS

READY, SET, GO!: RUNNERS JOIN CUBS CHARITIES ON SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 30, FOR THE 18TH ANNUAL RACE TO WRIGLEY 5K CHARITY RUN

Thousands of Runners Will Race Through Lakeview and Onto the Warning Track at Wrigley Field

CHICAGO—On Saturday, September 30, Cubs Charities will host the 18th Annual Race to Wrigley 5K Charity Run starting at 8 a.m. with participants running through the Lakeview neighborhood and onto the Wrigley Field warning track before finishing steps away from the iconic Wrigley Field Marquee.

Proceeds from the race will benefit Cubs Charities and their mission to mobilize the power of sport to champion youth, families and communities through sports-based youth development and academic programming, investments in safe places to play and strategic grantmaking. Proceeds from personal fundraising will be donated specifically to children and adolescents in need of behavioral health care services at Advocate Children’s Hospital.

In-person registration is open and will close on Friday, September 29, at noon CDT or until registration reaches full capacity. Virtual registration will close Sunday, October 1, 2023, at 11:59 p.m. CDT. Fans interested in participating can register at www. racetowrigley.com.

Chicago’s Black business owners have until 10/5 to apply for the Black Professional Entrepreneurs Resurgence Program

The Black Professional Entrepreneurs Resurgence® Program is looking for Chicago-based entrepreneurs in the growth stage of business to join its Chicago cohort. The program has impacted more than 1,200 entrepreneurs in the Houston area before heading to the Windy City.

Presented by The Kyra Company – a Black and woman owned business that provides strategic support and resources for organizations and fellow business owners – the program aims to help Black professional entrepreneurs foster growth and success, build bankability and capacity, and increase supplier readiness with its transformative 6-week virtual cohort.

Accepted members will benefit from an experience that offers:

Strategic Planning

Operational Finances

Business Operations

Human Resources

Marketing and Brand Strategy

Leadership Development

Applications for the Chicago cohort are open until Thursday, October 5. Professional entrepreneurs who are interested in learning more or applying can go to www.resurgenceaccelerator. com/chicago.

The Resurgence Program co-creator, Kyra Hardwick, is available to discuss the program, the positive impact it brings to cohort members, and how to successfully apply. Her company has helped more than 100 organizations, served more than 200 businesses, and supported the development of multiple businesses.

MCA CHICAGO ANNOUNCES NEW EXHIBITION FAITH RINGGOLD: AMERICAN PEOPLE

CHICAGO—The Museum of Contemporary Art (MCA) Chicago is pleased to announce Faith Ringgold: American People, a career-spanning survey of artist Faith Ringgold (b. 1930, Harlem, NY; lives and works in Englewood, New Jersey), opening in the Griffin Galleries of Contemporary Art on November 18, 2023, and running through February 25, 2024. This exhibition will be Ringgold’s first solo presentation in Chicago.

With a career that spans six decades, artist, author, educator, and organizer Ringgold is one of the most influential cultural figures of her generation. This major retrospective presents a comprehensive assessment of the artist’s impactful vision, which bears witness to the complexity of the American experience.

The exhibition will also further contextualize Ringgold’s continuing impact on art history through the inclusion of works from the MCA Collection by artists who were influenced by Ringgold or explore similar themes in their work.

‘Purple Turtle’ helps children explore their superpowers

Continued from page 1

BY TIA CAROL JONES

“The Purple Turtle” series Modi, a young girl who finds a magical purple turtle named Grapie. He takes Modi on different adventures to meet other magical underwater creatures that has superpowers.

Fair owns Premier Child Care Centers, which has locations in Pill Hill, Hegewisch, Near North and West Austin. She saw a gap for Black characters in print and she wanted to fill that gap. She took the experiences with all the children that were serviced at the daycare and put it into the book series. The daycare facilities serve as a test ground for the books. It’s more than just a book for Fair.

Fair wants the children who read the books and buy the merchandise to understand they have superpowers and re-engage in their own imagination and creativity. She co-wrote the books with Tonia Evans and said it only took an hour to write the first book. Fair described it as a great experience.

Fair is a writer, activist, actress, producer and mother. She also is the co-host of “The Brunch Bunch” on iHeartRadio. She manages all that she does by designating set times for each thing.

The first book is “Modi’s Magical Adventures” and is available for purchase. The Modi doll and the Grapie emotional intelligence animal are on their way to the marketplace. There will also be jewelry, bags and night lights, with knapsacks, bedding and sleeping bags.

“It was very important for us to make sure that the melanin was a focal point in our characters, because there’s so few books that actually cater to Black and brown children,” Fair said.

Currently there is a perfume, Grapie, that is available for

purchase. The perfume was Fair’s most fun product to create because she learned a lot about notes and fragrances and ingredients.

Parents whose children have read the book love it. On the Purple Turtle social media platforms there are videos of parents and teachers reading the book to children. “As the creator of this series, of this whole movement, it is heartwarming to see,” Fair said.

The second book will be titled “The Purple Turtle: Brave.” It will be launched within the next month. Each book has a different message for children. Other books will focus on bravery and imagination.

“I just hope that one day we see this in mass production like we see “The Little Mermaid.” As minorities, we don’t really have any mass production movements like that. I hope “The Purple Turtle” fills that gap one day,” Fair said. Fair added that representation of characters that look like Black children are important, whether it is in books, animated movies or cartoons.

Fair’s daughter, Modi, owns an Emotional Intelligence Book Lounge and Café, where people can find alternate methods of healing trauma, depression and suppression. Modi also is the author of the book, “Some Women Prefer Hell.” Fair believes it is a testament to her work as a mother that Modi has chosen to continue to work in emotional intelligence and healing.

To purchase the books and merchandise, visit www. thepurpleturtlemodismagicaladventures.com.

Gov. Pritzker Announces UPSIDE Foods Will Open Its First Commercial-Scale Cultivated Meat Production Plant in Glenview

GLENVIEW— Governor JB Pritzker and the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO) announced that UPSIDE Foods – a leading cultivated meat, poultry and seafood company will locate its first commercial-scale production facility in Glenview. As the first cultivated meat company to receive FDA approval, UPSIDE’s new Glenview facility marks a major milestone for cultivated meat production – supporting Illinois’ ecosystem and adding to the state’s dominance in the food processing industry. Bolstered by one of the first EDGE for Start Ups agreements, the company will invest at least $141 million and create a minimum of 75 new jobs.

UPSIDE Foods selected Glenview to locate its new facility due to Illinois’ pro-innovation business environment, shared commitment to innovation and sustainability, talented workforce, and vibrant innovation landscape. Illinois’ strategic location and the state’s longstanding leadership in the meat and food production industry was also a key factor. Additionally, the company was supported by the new EDGE for Start Ups program – which tailors incentives to start-up companies.

“We welcome the decision by UPSIDE Foods to join the food and agricultural sector of the Chicagoland region and its pledge to create new jobs and foster innovation,” said U.S. Senator Dick Durbin (D-IL). “Their decision to locate in Illinois is a testament to the cooperation of our local leaders to successfully attract new investments into our communities.”

“The State of Illinois is proud to welcome UPSIDE Foods – the first cultivated meat company to receive FDA approval – to their new home in Glenview,” said DCEO Director Kristin Richards. “UPSIDE Foods’ new state-of-the art facility will create jobs, invest in the community and help further solidify Illinois’ reputation as a global leader in food processing and food innovation.”

The 187,000-square-foot facility in Glenview will open with production of ground cultivated chicken products, with plans to expand to other species and whole-textured formats in the future. Millions of pounds of cultivated meat products will be produced at the new facility, with the potential to expand to over 30 million pounds – a significant step toward creating a more humane, sustainable, and resilient food system. Cultivated meat is an innovative solution to helping solve the climate crisis by ensuring animals aren’t harmed while using less land, water, and emissions during production.

As one of the world’s largest and most advanced commercial cultivated meat facilities, the state-of-the-art facility in Glenview will house cultivators with capacities of up to 100,000 liters. UPSIDE Foods’ cultivated meat is already being served to diners in California.

As part of the State’s comprehensive incentive package, the company received one of the first Economic Development for a Growing Economy (EDGE) for Startups tax credits, which stipulates a goal of making a $141 million investment and creating 75 new full-time jobs. A link to the full agreement can be found here.

The EDGE program was expanded to include startups in 2022 to spur additional investment for newer companies that are in their growth stage. In order to do this, EDGE for Start Ups provides a benefit that allow companies to reduce their payroll withholding instead of their Illinois corporate income tax credit. This enables start-up companies without corporate income tax liabilities to maximize their incentive to reinvest into their expansion project.

“I commend UPSIDE Foods for selecting suburban Cook County as the site for its inaugural large-scale commercial facility,” said Cook County Board President Toni Preckwinkle. “This choice

The “Purple Turtle” is a series of five books written by Tamera Fair and Tonia Evans. The first book, “Modi’s Magical Adventures,” is available for purchase. PHOTO PROVIDED BY TAMERA FAIR.

Pair of choral concerts feature women and Black composers

South Holland Master Chorale will celebrate 20th and 21st-century American composers who are creating today’s masterworks in a pair of concerts titled “Of Hope, Healing and Discovery”. Female and African-American composers will be featured prominently in the concerts October 8 in South Holland and October 15 in Tinley Park.

Works by African-American composers Margaret Bonds, Rosephanye Powell, Moses Hogan and Barbara Baker and other leading women composers Carol Barnett, Gwyneth Walker and Susan LaBarr will be featured along with renowned composers of Art Music such as Dan Forrest, Christopher Tin, Frank Ticheli and Stephen Paulus.

Authors e.e. cummings, Emily Dickinson, Langston Hughes, W.E.B. DuBois, the Old and New Testaments and others offer inspiring texts for these contemporary American composers.

Audiences will “discover the

award-winning, masterful composers of today (whose works) explore themes of hope, healing, joyfulness, spirituality, reflection and nature,” said South Holland Master Chorale Music Director Philip J. Bauman.

“We will be taking the audience on a journey of discovery,” Bauman said. “Many of the selections we are presenting are not as well known as they should be and not often performed at today’s choral concerts. Our audiences certainly will hear something new, touching and delightful. Together, we will experience the rich traditions of spirituals and feel the music down in our souls.”

The October 8 performance will be at 4 p.m. at Christ Our Savior Parish church, 880 E. 154th Street, South Holland. The hour-long concert will be repeated October 15 at 3 p.m. at St. Julie Billiart Church, 7399 W. 159th Street, Tinley Park.

Admission to both concerts is free; donations will be accepted. For more information, visit the Chorale website, southhollandmasterchorale.org, phone 708-210-2913 or email info@southhollandmasterchorale.org.

Two works on the program were composed by Margaret Bonds. Born in Chicago in 1913, she received bachelor’s and master’s degrees from Northwestern University in 1933 and ’34 and is considered one of the more remarkable composers in 20th century American music. Her “St. Francis’ Prayer” uses the text attributed to Francis of Assisi, “Lord, make me an instrument of thy peace.” Written by Bonds in 1968, it was not published until 2020, nearly 50 years after her death.

with deep historical significance in today’s world, calling for recognition of the social injustices forced upon Blacks.”

Another work that is based on a text by DuBois is “God Bless the Young Folk,” arranged by Carol Barnett. The text, written in the first decade of the 20th century, proclaims, “God bless the young folk, they that seek and seldom find and yet ceaselessly do seek some Truer, Better Thing,” adding the warning, “If you do not lift them up, they will pull you down.”

A centerpiece of the concerts is a work by contemporary American composer Dan Forrest based on a poem by e.e. cummings, “i thank You God for most this amazing day,” in which the natural world triggers an awakening to Truth, which, for cummings, is a person, a “You.”

Among other works on the program are “Hope Is the Thing With Feathers,” a setting of a poem by Emily Dickinson with music by Christopher Tin; and “We Remember Them,” adapted from the Jewish “New Union Prayerbook” by Susan LaBarr.

The program also includes three settings of traditional African-American spirituals: “Let Us Break Bread Together,” arranged by Gwyneth Walker; “Music Down in My Soul,” arranged by Moses Hogan; and “The Storm Is Passing Over,” arranged by Barbara W. Baker.

JOYCE APPLAUDS COMBINED $1.9 MILLION FOR LOCAL COMMUNITY REVITALIZATION

KANKAKEE – Three communities in the 40th District will receive funding for affordable housing and community revitalization through the Illinois Housing Development Authority’s Strong Communities Program, supported by State Senator Patrick Joyce.

“There are vacant properties all over the region that are not serving their purpose, communities or residents,” said Joyce (D-Essex). “It’s funding like this that allows local governments to restore these neighborhoods and other community areas in order to make them purposeful once again.”

The Strong Communities Program is designed to support local revitalization efforts and attract further investment in communities that may lack the resources needed to tackle vacant, abandoned and deteriorated properties.

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The second work by Bonds, “Especially Do I Believe in the Negro Race,” is the second movement of her cantata “Credo” (I Believe). Completed in 1967, “Credo” is based on the social-justice manifesto of the same name that was written in 1904 by African-American educator, poet and sociologist W.E.B DuBois. The text of this movement reflects DuBois’s determination to affirm the inherent beauty, dignity and humanity of Blackness.

This work is still being performed, Bauman noted, most recently earlier this year by Opera Philadelphia.

“It is a work of historical significance,” he said. “While some of its lyrics may be outdated and perhaps troubling for some based on current conditions, it is steeped

South Holland Master Chorale has a long and prestigious history, having been formed originally in the 1970s as Thornton Community Chorale at what was then Thornton Community College in Harvey. When the college transitioned into South Suburban College in South Holland in the 1980s, the group became known as South Suburban Chorale and continued under that name for more than 30 years. The group assumed its current name when it came under sponsorship of the Village of South Holland in 2015.

Broadly diverse and proudly non-discriminatory, the Chorale enjoys more than 80 active members from no fewer than 40 communities extending from Chicago to Kankakee and from Orland Park to Chesterton and Valparaiso, Indiana.

The Chorale has a longstanding reputation of bringing to life great masterworks of the classical and sacred choral traditions, as well as spirited performances of works in the African-American spiritual and gospel traditions.

GOV. PRITZKER... Continued From Page 2

not only pays homage to the area’s rich food manufacturing history but also underscores its emerging prominence in the food tech industry, paving the way for the future of sustenance. This effort also highlights the efficacy of the Greater Chicagoland Economic Partnership, underscoring what can be achieved through collaboration among regional leaders.”

“Illinois is at the epicenter of food and innovation, and we welcome UPSIDE Foods as the newest member of our state’s growing food tech ecosystem,” said Intersect Illinois CEO Dan Seals.

“We are proud to partner with UPSIDE Foods as they make the strate-

ELIE

A total of $19 million was approved by IHDA to support these revitalization efforts across Illinois. The grants are funded by the Rebuild Illinois capital plan and will leverage IHDA’s existing funding to increase property values, create jobs, help reduce crime, generate additional tax revenue and attract further community investment in underserved communities around the state. The following communities in the district Joyce represents are set to receive funding:

· Chicago Heights: $712,000

· Park Forest: $712,000

· Kankakee County: $487,000

“Vacant and abandoned properties continue to be a strain on local budgets and resources in communities throughout Illinois, which is why IHDA created the Strong Communities Program to assist local governments with their neighborhood revitalization efforts,” IHDA Executive Director Kristin Faust said. “Through the Strong Communities Program, IHDA seeks to help communities transform these properties back into positive, revenue-generating assets for neighborhoods.”

A total of $30 million in grant funding has been awarded through two application rounds. For more information, visit IHDA’s website.

HARRIS PLEASED TO SEE MORE THAN $850,000 IN LOCAL BACK TO BUSINESS GRANTS

HARVEY – Restaurants and hotels in the 15th District are set to receive more than $850,000 in grants, thanks to the support of State Senator Napoleon Harris, III.

“Our businesses and hotels drive our local economy,” said Harris (D-Harvey). “We are all still in the process of recovering from the pandemic. The Back to Business grant program is an effective way for us to uplift and support our business community as they rebuild and recover.”

gic decision to harness the unparalleled strengths of the greater Chicagoland region,” said Kyle Schulz, Executive Vice President, World Business Chicago. “Their groundbreaking work in growing meat, poultry, and seafood directly from animal cells aligns with our region’s commitment to innovation, sustainability, and the future of food. We are excited to support UPSIDE Foods in their journey and work together to promote the greater Chicagoland region as a hub for innovative and sustainable solutions that address the challenges of our time and continue the Chicagoland legacy in protein production.”

The Back to Business grant program provides recovery grants for small businesses throughout the state with an emphasis on businesses in the hardest-hit industries, like restaurants and hotels. Through the Back to Business and Business Interruption Grant programs, DCEO has provided more than $535 million to more than 15,000 businesses since the start of the pandemic.

A total of $851,713 has been awarded to 23 businesses in Harris’ district that are part of the restaurant and hotel industry.

“As a business owner, I can empathize with the challenges our community is still struggling with,” said Harris. “My hope is this grant program will assist businesses and help ensure they are on a path toward success.”

For more information about B2B grants, visit DCEO’s website.

KEITH WEAVER MOVES ON FROM SONY PICTURES ENTERTAINMENT TO FOCUS ON REAL ESTATE AND HOSPITALITY EMPIRES

SHELBYVILLE, Tenn., PRNewswire -- Keith Weaver, Executive Vice President of Global Public Policy and External Affairs at Sony Entertainment Pictures, announces his departure from the entertainment group after more than 20 years. Weaver’s exit marks an exciting new chapter in his entrepreneurial journey. As the Co-Founder of Uncle Nearest Premium Whiskey alongside his wife Fawn Weaver, and the inspiration behind Humble Baron, the longest bar in the world that is located at Nearest Green Distillery, Weaver will now launch a new hospitality company, Nashwood, Inc. where he will act as Founder and Chief Executive Officer.

“Having worked in the fast-paced creative sector for decades, I am fueled by dynamic, creative thinking and action,” said Weaver. “Alongside my entertainment career, I have been able to quietly develop successful investments and I’m thrilled to now fully shift my focus, bringing that energy and excitement to the real estate and hospitality realm.”

With Nashwood, Inc., Weaver will initially prioritize the redevelopment of its Middle Tennessee portfolio of the US Bank Building, the Times-Gazette Building, which will act as Nashwood’s headquarters, the Bedford Box Factory, as well as lead further development of Nearest Green Distillery.

“Each project that we have in the works is a special part of the Bedford County area and stands to bring a great economic boom to the community,” says Weaver. “I estimate that we will invest over $100 million in the community over the next five years.”

“The Weaver’s investment and dedication to the Bedford County community is unrivaled,” said Shane Hooper, CEO of the Shelbyville Bedford Partnership. “Their vision for what this community can be, and the exciting venues they have and will continue to create here – starting with

The Veteran Executive Vice President of Global Public Policy and External Affairs Shifts His Attention To His New Venture, Nashwood, Inc.

Nearest Green Distillery – are helping to shape this area into a thriving destination.”

The company’s name marries Nashville and Hollywood, paying homage to Weaver’s hometown of Los Angeles and long-term career in Hollywood, and his current home of Tennessee. Weaver will continue to maintain connections to his roots in California, acting as the Chairman of the Board of Community Coalition, an iconic social justice organization based in South Los Angeles. Weaver also supports the open space preservation and serves on the National Board of the Trust for Public Land where he leads their work to protect historic Black sites throughout the country.

For more information about Nashwood, Inc., please visit www.Nashwood.com.

Nashwood, Inc. is a multifaceted real estate and hospitality company based in Shelbyville, Tennessee with domestic and international holdings. The company owns the US Bank Building in Shelbyville, The former

Shelbyville Times Gazette Building, as well as numerous other holdings. Additionally, the company supports the development of Nearest Green Distillery, one of the fastest growing distilleries in the world.

Nearest Green Distillery is the world’s first distillery to commemorate an African American. Dubbed as “Malt Disney World,” and named by Travel + Leisure as a “true whiskey destination,” the 432-acre property has become known as a full-blown destination for whiskey lovers, history enthusiasts, and families. It is a master class in storytelling and history-making, paying tribute to the three things Tennessee is most known for: Tennessee Whiskey, Tennessee walking horses and Tennessee music.

At Nearest Green Distillery, visitors can purchase Uncle Nearest’s flagship whiskeys as well as exclusive bottles such as the award-winning Uncle Nearest Master Blender Edition Whiskey and Uncle Nearest Uncut/Unfiltered Straight Rye Whiskey. In addition to world-class attractions such as the Welcome Center and Philo + Frank’s, the world’s first non-alcoholic speakeasy, guests can indulge in award-winning BBQ at Chuck’s Barrel House BBQ II, or enjoy drinks, food and music at Humble Baron, the world’s largest bar. For more information or to book a tour, please visit unclenearest.com/distillery.

Humble Baron is Middle Tennessee’s acclaimed restaurant, bar and entertainment venue, located on the property of the iconic Nearest Green Distillery in Shelbyville, Tennessee. Home to the World’s Longest Bar at 518-feet-long, Humble Baron is brought to life by the visionaries behind Uncle Nearest Premium Whiskey. A destination for locals and visitors alike, the venue offers elevated Southern fare alongside craft whiskey cocktails, and will showcase live music several nights a week. Humble Baron is a gathering place where everyone has a seat at the table, bringing people together over premium spirits, exceptional food and lively music.

Creating Generational Prosperity: Kevan & Ayesha Shelton’s impact on Black Men buying Houses

HOUSTON, PRNewswire -- Houston natives Kevan & Ayesha Shelton launched an initiative to assist Black Men to Buy Houses. In an historical event set to take place from noon to 3 p.m. Sept. 30, at the “The Community Collective for Houston”, at location known for “Maximizing Every Occasion,” The Shelton’s released the details online anticipating 200 men would register, a remarkable 250 men were registered to attend the event within the first 48 hours.

Kevan & Ayesha launched the “Black Men Buy Houses” initiative to address the disparities in purchasing black men often encounter compared to black women. The Shelton’s are on a mission to pave a path for Black Men to rebuild their communities. Recognizing the obstacles that inhibit many black men from entering homeownership, they decided to be the change they wanted to see and created an opportunity for men to break down these barriers. As a Homeowner and Home Builder Kevan & Ayesha understand the systemic challenges and the significance of homeownership in building generational wealth. This unprecedented event is geared towards empowering black men to overcome these hurdles and secure a brighter future through property ownership.

Why is there a disparity for Black Men buying houses

Black men often face formidable challenges when it comes to purchasing homes, which can be attributed to a combination of factors. Firstly, there is a lack of accessible knowledge and information about the homebuying process, leaving many black men unfamiliar with the steps involved and the resources

available to them. Secondly, limited financial resources and opportunities hinder their ability to amass the necessary funds for down payments and closing costs. This financial barrier, compounded by historical inequalities, exacerbates the difficulties they encounter. Furthermore, the scarcity of affordable housing options further compounds the challenge, as many black people find themselves priced out of the market due to rising property costs and a shortage of affordable homes in their communities. As a result, addressing these multifaceted obstacles and implementing targeted initiatives to provide education, resources, and affordable housing solutions is crucial in empowering black men to overcome these challenges and attain the dream of homeownership.

What Resources will be provided at the event

Attendees of the event will have access to a comprehensive range of valuable resources aimed at addressing the challenges faced by aspiring black male homeowners. Representatives from the Urban League will be present on-site to discuss and provide information about their affordable housing opportunities, offering a direct avenue for individuals to explore housing options that align with their financial situations. Additionally, The Shelton’s have partnered with several banks that will be present to share insights about grant opportunities that can significantly alleviate the financial burden of homebuying. Credit restoration companies will offer their expertise, helping attendees navigate the complexities of credit improvement, a critical aspect of securing favorable loan terms. And lastly, Lenders will also be available to provide guidance and

facilitate the mortgage application process, ensuring that participants have a clear understanding of their financing options. With these resources in place, the event aims to equip black men with the knowledge, support, and connections needed to overcome barriers and achieve their homeownership goals.

“This event is crucial for our community. We’re addressing challenges faced by Black men in homeownership, offering practical resources and insights to pave the way for generational wealth through real estate. Together, we’re empowering our community.” –

Kevan

Shelton

Kevan & Ayesha offering a $5k Grant opportunity

The Shelton’s are committed to our community’s growth and success. We’re proud to offer a $5k grant for one lucky applicant on September 30th towards the purchase of a home. Our dedication is driven by the desire to empower individuals to achieve their homeownership goals, building a stronger future for all. Don’t miss out on this incredible opportunity –the event is complimentary, to register to attend this free Home Buying workshop, follow the link to RSVP https://tinyurl.com/2eyu3wht.

Marriage & Real Estate is a community for like-minded couples. We are here to motivate and help you move toward the life of your dreams —whether that be setting up your financial foundation, starting a family, networking and growing with other couples, or getting your first rental property. Your journey starts here from our weekly podcast to the monthly blog post and tools available to help you. Join us in building a new generation of families changing their futures.

Keith Weaver, former Sony Pictures Entertainment executive, embarks on a new adventure with Nashwood, Inc. – pioneering hospitality and real estate ventures. Nashwood, Inc.

MIELLE LAUNCHES FIRST AD CAMPAIGN ‘FROM ONE QUEEN TO ANOTHER,’

DISMANTLING BEAUTY SECRET ‘GATEKEEPING,’ AND FORGING SISTERHOOD THROUGH AWARD-WINNING TEXTURED HAIR PRODUCTS

MERRILLVILLE, Ind., PRNewswire -- In a nod to the power of a good hair product referral and who really is the IT girl when it comes to having the best-kept beauty secrets, Mielle, an award-winning textured hair care brand, launches the brand’s first-ever ad campaign, “From One Queen to Another.” The campaign features CEO and Founder Monique Rodriguez –as Queen of the Textured Haircare Category – and women’s basketball champion, Angel Reese – as Queen of the Court. From today’s launch through 2024, the campaign will celebrate and inspire queens to step into their greatness with a presence at key cultural events, on-site activations, and panels, while spotlighting the award-winning Mielle Pomegranate & Honey collection.

“From One Queen to Another ‘’ encourages a sisterhood-in-beauty where women share their beauty knowledge over “gatekeeping” it. Like the forward-thinking content creators who profess that “hot girls don’t gatekeep,” loyal Mielle customers will always choose to recommend Mielle products as their best (not so) kept secret.

“I started Mielle from my kitchen, trying out different ingredients to help address hair challenges I was experiencing,” said Monique Rodriguez, CEO and Founder of Mielle. “When our Mielle Mavens are excited about their favorite Mielle “IT” product, they put their friends and family onto it. ‘From One Queen to Another’ reflects the community we’ve built,” she adds.

To create space for beauty in women’s sports, Mielle brand ambassador and women’s college basketball champion, Angel Reese, curated her own “Queen of the Court” bundle, featuring her favorite products. The exclusive bundle includes Mielle Pomegranate & Honey Shampoo and Mielle Pomegranate & Honey Conditioner, Mielle Pomegranate & Honey Edge Gel, Mielle Mongongo Oil Thermal Heat Spray, Mielle Pomegranate & Honey Leave-in Conditioner, Mielle Rosemary Mint Oil, and a limited-edition edge scarf. The “Queen of the Court” bundle will be available just in time for the tip-off of Angel’s season this fall for a limited time exclusively at mielleorganics.com at a retail

Women’s basketball champion Angel Reese and CEO and Founder of Mielle Organics Monique Rodriguez are featured in “From One Queen to Another,” the first ad campaign from Mielle Organics. Mielle Organics.

price of $54.99.

“As the Bayou Barbie, I love to look my best on and off the court! It can be difficult maintaining my hair as an athlete and student with a tight schedule, but Mielle has always been there for me,” said Angel Reese. “Mielle is part of my daily haircare routine, so I want to share with my fans what I’ve been using to keep my hair healthy,” she continued.

Through its partnerships with the WNBA as the league’s first textured hair partner and collaboration with Howard University’s swimming and diving team, Mielle is highlighting the importance of maintaining healthy hair while leading an active lifestyle and making the statement that women in sports are beautiful and will be embraced in the beauty industry. The multi-year partnerships include exclusive sponsorship rights, free products for play-

ers and coaching staff, and student events for occasions including Homecoming.

Intentional about highlighting Black and brown women in front of and behind the camera, “From One Queen to Another” was produced and led by Fela, a culture-defining production company that celebrates inclusion and diversity. The campaign was directed by Kajal, who previously worked with hip-hop superstar Nas and poet Amanda Gorman and includes a creative team of women of color.

Visuals from the campaign feature the fan favorite Mielle Pomegranate & Honey Collection curated for Type 4 hair. The Collection is available for purchase at Walmart, Target and Sally Beauty. For more information about Mielle, visit: www.mielleorganics.com.

SheaMoisture Men Illuminates Black Men Through the Lens of Love with New Campaign, “Black Men Love”

NEW YORK, PRNewswire -- SheaMoisture Men, the nation’s leading personal grooming brand for men of color, is unveiling a new campaign, “Black Men Love,” with the mission of proliferating a narrative that celebrates and showcases Black men through the lens of love. The multifaceted initiative will illuminate the various ways in which Black men show love and contribute to the movement of redefining societal perceptions of Black masculinity through a digital content series, partnerships with organizations dedicated to the advancement of Black men, wellness experiences and more.

This past weekend, SheaMoisture Men kicked-off the initiative with pop-ups in New York and Los Angeles where they gave Black men on the street roses and love letters in front of larger-than-life flower wall murals donning “Show Black Men Love.” The New York pop-up convened in Harlem at Denny Moe’s Superstar Barbershop and the Los Angeles event took place in the historical Leimert Park.

As the wellbeing and safety of Black men continues to be a pervasive topic in the world at large, SheaMoisture Men is committed to uplifting them through acts of service that validate their value, experiences, and importance.

“Black men are prioritizing their wellbeing as they’re becoming more vulnerable and self-aware,” says Taydra Mitchell Jackson, Chief Marketing Officer for SheaMoisture. “As a brand that truly values and cares about this

community, our intention is to partner with Black men and organizations already doing the work to celebrate their true essence and authentic experiences.”

In partnership with Black Men Heal, Black Men Smile and The Black Man Can, the campaign will come to life in three key beats.

Digital Content Series: SheaMoisture Men will release a series of short vignettes celebrating and highlighting the various ways Black Men show love. The series, directed by Dominique DeLeon, will feature the personal stories of everyday Black men in their journeys navigating manhood and how love influences their roles as fathers, teachers, partners, professionals and more. The campaign Hero trailer and Each One Teach One vignette, chronicling the journey of how a Los Angeles educator shows love to his students, will drop in September on SheaMoisture Men’s Instagram and X (formerly known as Twitter) channels.

Weekly Affirmations: Motivational and uplifting affirmations penned by Black male leaders will be shared weekly across SheaMoisture Men’s social channels rooted in self-love and love within relationships.

Wellness Events: SheaMoisture Men will host intimate wellness events and closed-door roundtable discussions for Black men to hold space for vulnerable dialogue centered on evolving the perception of their authentic experiences, Black masculinity and how love influences their roles as men.

Join the “Black Men Love” journey and receive campaign updates by following @sheamoisturemen, #SheaMoistureMen and #BlackMenLove on Instagram and X (formerly known as Twitter).

SheaMoisture is a global beauty and personal care leader committed to serving the Black community through strategic investment and community give back. SheaMoisture recognizes the power of entrepreneurship in addressing racial inequality with the belief that commerce can bring true economic independence. Every year SheaMoisture reinvests at least 1% of net sales directly into economic opportunities for underserved entrepreneurs and Black business owners. With every purchase, you’re helping to fund investments that support funding for Black-owned business, entrepreneurial education, crisis response, equitable purchasing, and ethical sourcing. SheaMoisture develops no compromise beauty products that help every member of the Black community live their healthiest, most beautiful lives. Shea butter is one of the brand’s core ingredients, praised for its hydrating and nourishing properties, and sourced from women-led cooperatives in West Africa, providing fair wages and creating economic opportunities. The company offers products in the hair care, bath, body, skin care, baby and men’s categories, and is distributed in retailers throughout the world. SheaMoisture is a subsidiary of Unilever. Twitter | Facebook | Instagram

Secretaries of Education, Agriculture Call on Governors to Equitably Fund Land-Grant HBCUs

U.S. Secretary of Education Miguel Cardona and U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Thomas Vilsack sent letters to 16 governors emphasizing the over $12 billion disparity in funding between land-grant Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) and their non-HBCU land-grant peers in their states. The 16 governors receiving the letter are:

Alabama – Gov. Kay Ivey

Arkansas – Gov. Sarah Huckabee Sanders

Florida – Gov. Ron DeSantis

Georgia – Gov. Brian Kemp

Kentucky – Gov. Andy Beshear

Louisiana – Gov. John Bel Edwards

Maryland – Gov. Wes Moore

Mississippi – Gov. Tate Reeves

Missouri – Gov. Michael Parson

North Carolina – Gov. Roy Cooper

Oklahoma – Gov. J. Kevin Stitt

South Carolina – Gov. Henry McMaster

Tennessee – Gov. Bill Lee

Texas – Gov. Greg Abbott

Virginia – Gov. Glenn Youngkin

West Virginia – Gov. James C. Justice, II

There are HBCU land-grant institutions in 18 states; however, Delaware and Ohio have equitably funded their respective universities.

“Unacceptable funding inequities have forced many of our nation’s distinguished Historically Black Colleges and Universities to operate with inadequate resources and delay critical investments in everything from campus infrastructure to research and development to student support services,” said U.S.

Secretary of Education Miguel Cardona. “I am continually inspired by all that HBCUs have achieved despite having to punch above their weight. Our HBCUs graduate a huge share of our nation’s Black educators, doctors, engineers, judges, and lawyers. These institutions and the talented, diverse students they serve must have equitable funding in order to reach their full potential and continue driving innovation. The Biden-Harris Administration is proud to have made record investments in our HBCUs, but to compete in the 21st century we need state leaders to step up and live up to their legally required obligations to our historically Black land-grant institutions.”

“Some of the brightest minds and most impactful advancements in food and agriculture have taken root in our country’s 1890 land-grant universities, and I’m incredibly proud of the partnership USDA maintains with these invaluable institutions. We need governors to help us invest in their states’ HBCU’s at the equitable level their students deserve, and reflective of all they contribute to our society and economy,” said Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack. “The documented discrepancies are a clarion call for governors to act without delay to provide significant support for the 1890 land-grant institutions in their respective states. Failing to do so will have severe and lasting consequences to the agriculture and food industry at a time when it must remain resilient and competitive.”

Under the Second Morrill Act of 1890, states choosing to open a second land-grant university to serve Black students were required to provide an eq-

uitable distribution of state funds between their 1862 and 1890 land-grant institutions. 1862 land-grant universities were founded through the First Morrill Act of 1862 which provided states with federal land that could be sold to support the colleges.

Using data from the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) Integrated Postsecondary Education Survey (IPEDS) that ranges from 1987 to 2020, the departments were able to calculate the amount that these institutions would have received if their state funding per student was equal to that of 1862 institutions. Unequitable appropriated funding of the 1890 institutions in the states ranges from $172 million to $2.1 billion, causing severe financial gaps. In the last 30 years alone, these funds could have supported vital and much-needed infrastructure and student services and would have better positioned the recipient universities to compete for grants to increase educational opportunity for students.

Noting that it is more important than ever to compete at a high level and remain the world’s top producer of talent and innovation, the Departments of Education and Agriculture have offered to work with each state’s budget office to examine the funding data to bring balance to investments in 1890 HBCUs that have been severely underfunded.

Each letter outlined the amount each state’s 1890 HBCU has been underfunded per student in state appropriated funds between 1987 and 2020 and offers a suggestion on possible remedies. To view the letters, click here.

New Season of “Matter of Fact with Soledad O’Brien”

Premieres

NEW YORK, PRNewswire -- Matter of Fact with Soledad O’Brien, America’s #1 nationally syndicated public affairs news magazine program, returns for its ninth season, with a fresh look and an expansive new set in New York City.

The weekly program, produced by Hearst Media Production Group (HMPG) and distributed by Sony Pictures Television, will be shot in a converted Manhattan office space that will serve as Matter of Fact headquarters. The new set environment was created to provide multiple interview and presentation areas.

“Matter of Fact is about telling stories and having conversations with people from diverse backgrounds across America,” said Rita Hagen Aleman, executive producer, news and documentary development at Hearst Media Production Group. “The new set and refreshed on-air look are designed to underscore the show’s dynamic and distinctive style -- which is resonating with younger viewers and audiences seeking a format that stands out from the typical Sunday talk programs.”

Matter of Fact, hosted by Emmy® Award-winning journalist, Soledad O’Brien, was one of just a handful of nationally syndicated programs to achieve year-to-year ratings growth for the 20222023 season – including increases in Persons 2+,

The new set in New York City for “Matter of Fact with Soledad O’Brien.” Hearst Media Production Group, LLC.

Women 18+, and African American viewers, per Nielsen data. In the key Persons 25-54 demographic, the show ranked in the top five out of 27 weekend national political/public affairs shows on broadcast and cable. Matter of Fact reaches 96% of U.S. TV households in local television markets across the country.

Matter of Fact is part of HMPG’s current pro-

gram portfolio comprised of more than 30 original series and hundreds of hours of content annually on leading broadcast networks and station groups and on connected TV and streaming platforms. It has a library of more than 4,000 hours of programming and its content can be found in 97 countries.

Football Legend Chad “OchoCinco” Johnson Tapped as Ambassador for Season Four of the HBCU Esports League

ATLANTA, PRNewswire -- Cxmmunity Media, a Black-owned media technology company dedicated to future-proofing minority representation and equity in the gaming industry, has announced the fourth season of its annual HBCU Esports League kicking off on Sunday, Sept. 17. Football legend, Chad “OchoCinco’’ Johnson joins the ranks this season as the league’s ambassador with additional surprise guest appearances slated by some of the biggest names in gaming culture throughout its duration. Verizon, Discover, MTN Dew and Hot Pockets also return as continued brand partners and champions of Cxmmunity Media’s mission to future-proof diversity in gaming.

“I’m excited to be working with the HBCU Esports League and help them grow to new heights in their fourth season, “ says Chad “OchoCinco’’ Johnson. “Gaming has always been a passion of mine and I wanted to support Cxmmunity Media’s mission to diversify the gaming industry.”

Touted as the #1 culture & lifestyle gaming and entertainment show on Twitch, the HBCU Esports League will convene promising student gamers from 15 Historically Black Colleges and Universities to go head-to-head in a series of tournaments for a chance at $170,000 in prize pools towards scholarships.

This season will include student competitors from Howard University, North Carolina A&T, Wilberforce

University, Morehouse College, Florida Memorial University, Alabama A&M, Benedict College, Claflin University, Delaware State University, Johnson C. Smith University, Southern University and Texas Southern University.

“We are excited to see the continuous growth and reach of the HBCU Esports league as we work towards driving inclusion forward in esports, while providing an entertaining experience for all to enjoy,” says Cxmmunity Media Chief Executive Officer, Ryan Johnson. “Each new season is a constant reminder of the importance of fueling Black communities of gaming hopefuls with the resources and opportunities to chart a path towards professional advancement in the industry.”

Despite 83% of Black teens identifying as gamers, Black professionals are vastly underrepresented in the gaming category, comprising only 4% of the industry. Since launching in 2021, Cxmmunity Media has made significant strides in uniting brands and the industry at large to help change this, and provide Black gamers with the platform, exposure, and resources to monetize in gaming. To date, Cxmmunity Media has donated $1.3M towards scholarships for HBCU students through tournament prize pools, engaged more than 600 Black gamers and 40 HBCUs, and has provided internships in the gaming industry to more than 20 HBCU students.

“For the past three seasons, we’ve been able to

illustrate how culture plays a vital role in the future and longevity of gaming,” says Chris Peay, Chief Marketing Officer for Cxmmunity Media. “We’re thrilled to continue to be a conduit for brands and people of influence to join in our mission to future-proof diversity in the industry.”

Season four of the HBCU Esports League can be streamed on Twitch at https://www.twitch.tv/cxmmunity with the Fall term culminating with the return of Discover Bowl on December 17th. Stay tuned for additional details and more announcements from the HBCU Esports League by following from Cxmmunity Media @cxmmunity.co and the HBCU Esports League @ hbcuesports.gg on Instagram and X (formerly known as Twitter).

Cxmmunity Media is a collaborative team of innovative thinkers and doers dedicated to future-proofing diversity and equity in gaming through strategic partnerships, philanthropy, and entertainment. Founded in 2021, Cxmmunity Media is on a mission to increase minority representation in the industry by investing in the education, economic advancement, and visibility of gamers of color. As a pathway to leveling the playing field for Black gamers, Cxmmunity Media created the HBCU Esports League, one of few Black-owned sports leagues, providing students from Historically Black Colleges and Universities a safe space to compete and monetize in esports.

Chicago's Own Well Known Publicist/ Spokesman Sean T. Howard Turns 56

On Sunday, September 17th, over 200 Elected Officials, Entertainers, Business Leaders, Family and Friends gathered to celebrate prominent Publicist/Spokesman Sean Howard's 56th Birthday..

Among the guest included:

Blue Island Park Commissioner Tonya Howard (Sean's Wife), V103's Crazy Howard McGee, Chicago Music Legend

George Daniels, Chicago City Treasurer

Melissa Conyers- Ervin, Rich Township

Supervisor Calvin Jordan, Chicago

Alderman Jason Ervin, Chicago

Alderman David Moore, Lynwood Mayor Jada Curry

Cal City Mayor Thaddeus Jones, Robbins Mayor Darren Bryant, Illinois State

Representative Debbie Meyers-Martin, FOX News Chicago's Tia Ewing and her husband

Philanthropist Early Walker, MWRD

Commissioner Yumeka Brown, Matteson

Trustee Adam Shorter, Matteson Trustee

Andre Satchell, Matteson Trustee Carolyn Palmer, Buddy Bear Car Wash Owner Phil Degaratto, Cook County Commissioner

Monica Gordon and Cook Commissioner Dennis Deer.

The event was held at the all new La Isla Bonita Marina in Burnham, Illinois.

Photos Provided by STH Media LLC.

Teach Kids Kindness and Gratitude With Thank You Notes

(StatePoint) Nearly 60% of Americans say they send thank you notes at least occasionally to show their appreciation for a gift or favor, according to a recent poll from AmericanGreetings.com. While writing thank yous might seem time consuming, it’s actually a wonderful opportunity to teach children important life lessons such as kindness, gratitude and empathy.

Whether they are thanking their new teacher, their favorite fall sports coach, or a friend or family member, here are a few tips and tricks for creating meaningful – yet simple – thank yous with kids this back-to-school season and beyond.

Focus on the Positive

It’s important to give children a “why.”

Parents should explain that when people receive a thank you note, it not only makes them feel good, but it lets them know that the gift arrived safely and was appreciated. By placing the emphasis on the person who gave them the gift – rather than on themselves – it changes thank yous from a painpoint to a positive.

Make it a Fun with Devices

Kids love devices – so put their screen time to good use with apps like American Greetings Creatacard for iPad. The app offers a fun, easy and engaging tool to make

and send greeting cards. Plus, receiving them will be just as exciting – as homemade cards from kids are enjoyed by 93% of Americans!

Whether making a card from scratch, coloring a card or customizing a pre-made design, the Creatacard app allows kids to explore their imaginations. Simply choose from a variety of virtual (and mess-free) tools, such as pencils, paint, markers, photo frames, stamps and stickers to add designs, images and personalized messages. Best of all, the app is free to download, and cards can be sent instantly via email, text, messaging apps or shared on social media.

Power of Personalization

According to the American Greetings poll, personalized messages are the most important and enjoyed part of thank you notes. Parents should encourage kids to think about what made the gift so special and be sure to communicate that message. Was it something they really needed or wanted? Will they use the check or money for a specific purpose? Spending a few extra minutes personalizing each note will go a long way to show their sincere appreciation.

Timing is Everything – The Sooner the Better!

It’s proper etiquette to be timely in sending

thank you notes. In fact, 54% of Americans say they should be sent within one week of receiving a gift. Build good habits with kids by sending thank yous as soon as possible. It may be helpful to plan ahead and establish a set time within a week of the celebration for children to create and send their cards. And luckily, if you’re sending digital greetings, they’ll arrive instantly, save money on postage, and save time by eliminating the need to find current street addresses.

Teaching kids the importance of properly showing gratitude is a life skill they can take with them as they grow older. Starting small with thank you notes can be an invaluable step to becoming a kinder and more gracious person.

PHOTO SOURCE: (c) Prostock-Studio / iStock

Eshe Ukweli Howard UniversityNNPA Fellow

Solomon Hayes Morehouse CollegeNNPA Fellow

Brielle Smith Howard UniversityNNPA Fellow

Jacob Bellevue Howard University

NNPA Fellow Antonio

Jada Tullos Alabama

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