BALLY’S CHICAGO CASINO HOSTS ‘VISION TO REALITY’ DEMOLITION EVENT AT FORMER CHICAGO TRIBUNE FREEDOM CENTER
Demolition projected to take 5 months; construction to follow with Fall 2026 opening
CHICAGO – When an excavator claw took down part of the former Chicago Tribune Freedom Center at the “Vision to Reality” Demolition Event, it marked a major construction milestone for the future Bally’s Chicago Casino, hotel and entertainment complex.
Bally’s Chicago Casino will harness the beauty of the urban Chicago riverfront site to create inclusive, dynamic spaces, including a 500-room hotel tower, 3,000-seat theater, six restaurants, cafes and a food hall, and a 2-acre public park. The casino will offer space for approximately 3,400 slots, 170 table games and VIP gaming areas. The lower riverbank will be connected to the property with an approximately 2,000-foot-long extension of the riverwalk extending south from W. Chicago Avenue.
The casino development will create 3,000 construction jobs and 3,000 casino jobs once Bally’s Chicago Casino becomes operational. Bally’s Chicago Casino has hosted a diversity vendor fair and multiple job fairs in preparation for the permanent location.
Prior to and since taking possession on July 5 of the 30-acre site located on the west side of the Chicago River between Chicago Avenue on the north and Grand Avenue on the south, Bally’s Chicago Casino has worked with the Chicago Community Builders Collective, a minority led construction partnership, and Brandenburg Industrial Service Company, the project’s demolition contractor, to prepare the site for demolition.
Bally’s Chicago Casino will continue to welcome guests to the temporary casino location at Medinah Temple in River North until the permanent location in River West is operational in Fall 2026.
Since the opening of Bally’s Chicago’s temporary casino location 11 months ago, the casino has welcomed more than 1.14 million visitors and has consistently increased monthly admissions.
EV MANUFACTURER YMER TECHNOLOGY ANNOUNCES OPENING OF U.S. HEADQUARTERS IN ILLINOIS
REV Illinois incentive package supports company’s relocation from Houston
BUFFALO GROVE – Ymer Technology, a manufacturer of electric vehicle (EV) components for the heavy equipment industry, the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO), Lake County Partners, and the Village of Buffalo Grove, announced the grand opening of its new U.S. headquarters in Buffalo Grove. The company’s $5.7 million investment, bolstered by a Reimagining Energy and Vehicles in Illinois (REV Illinois) agreement, will enable Ymer Technology to produce cooling technology and thermal management systems for EVs while supporting Illinois’ clean energy economy.
Founded in 2005 in Stockholm, Sweden, Ymer Technology chose to relocate from Houston to Lake County to take advantage of Chicagoland’s unmatched location, industry leaders, and the State’s REV incentive program. This is the first in a series of planned expansions for the company.
The State and its partners took Ymer Technology leadership and staff on a tour of sites throughout Illinois, and within two weeks the company selected this strategic location in Buffalo Grove. Shortly after opening its doors in Illinois, Ymer Technology CEO Bjorn Afzelius announced that the company has already inked its first deal.
As the latest company to join Illinois’ innovative EV space, Ymer Technology will provide critical cooling technology to all-battery vehicles. The company is a critical addition to the hundreds of companies across Illinois supplying components to the automotive industry.
“Into Action 2024” Empowers And Inspires Voting Through Arts And Culture
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BY TIA CAROL JONES
Into Action 2024, which was hosted by Task Force and Drive Agency, featured more than 200 pieces of artwork, “the” performances and conversations from Aug. 17th to 22nd.
The art gallery goes through a timeline of where America has been and where it is now, as well as where people envision America going in the future.
Work from Tyesha Moores’ LIGHT series was showcased in the gallery. The series shows Black women of a darker complexion in bright clothing and lipstick.
“This series was created shortly after me graduating from college, because of how striking I noticed darker skin was against bright colors. It reminded me of being told, ‘stay out of the sun or you’re going to get too dark’ when I was younger,” Moores said. “These two photographs in particular are shot at night to showcase the loneliness that a Black woman feels by being so isolated by just existing in her own skin. I wanted to empower Black women to do whatever we feel, however we feel and never be silenced by anyone or anything. Black will forever be beautiful.”
the cities where the campaign will host events to encourage people to get out and vote in November. Those arts and culture events will engage people to vote, register to vote and highlight other ways people can be civically engaged.
The conversations that took place in Chicago utilized talented artists from Chicago, who champion the issues focused on the gallery. There were also movie screenings and deejay sets that took place during the five days. The goal was to bring to life the themes from the art gallery in a more visual way.
“We believe firmly that you need to meet people where they are. Politics is something you might think about every few days, but culture is where people live. We want to be in the spaces and places where people want to have conversations with people they love and trust,” Carothers said.
In other cities, there will be a barbershop activation, with training for barbers to learn how to talk about voting. The hope is that people will hear from trusted sources in their life and that will hold weight and encourage them to vote. Carothers added, that going to where people are to talk about the importance of voting, makes America’s democracy stronger.
Moores said that art and activism serves as the voice of the unheard, while also being a driver for change in this year’s election and beyond. She added that art has been a form of activism for such a long time because it is a form of expression for marginalized communities, much like rap was created by Black people as a way to speak about their environment and what they were experiencing.
Cassie Carothers, of Drive Agency, said Into Action 2024 is a way to get people to think about what issues are important to them and use that to get them to vote in November, while using art and culture to talk about those issues.
Into Action 2024 is part of a bigger campaign, which kicked off in Chicago, and is going to seven cities throughout the country. Those cities are Philadelphia, Pittsburgh, Milwaukee, Atlanta, Charlotte, Phoenix and Detroit. The artists whose work was chosen for the gallery come from
Carothers said the people left the gallery feeling inspired and thinking about the next steps. She said that is the response Into Action 2024 wanted from the attendees, to go out feeling empowered to vote and to also talk to their family and friends about voting.
“As Nina Simone says, it’s an artist’s duty to reflect the times. I think we’re living in a time where it’s important to think expansively about ways Black people can make positive changes for ourselves, rather than relying on politicians to make lasting change. Voting in the presidential election is one way to be civically engaged, but it’s not the only way, or the most important way. I think it’s important to pay attention to local elections in our own communities, and to look beyond voting to community organizing and mutual aid efforts as mechanisms of change that empower us to liberate ourselves on our own terms,” said Artist Jamila Woods about the ways art and activism intersect when it comes to bolstering the vote in this year’s election.
Andrade Measure Protecting Consumers from AIbased Discrimination Becomes Law
CHICAGO – Jobseekers and families applying for loans or credit will be better protected from high-tech discrimination under a new law championed by state Rep. Jaime Andrade, D-Chicago, prohibiting employers from using AI technology to racially profile applicants.
“I have long made it my mission to advance consumer-conscious legislation that puts everyday families first, while making sure our state remains competitive in the tech and innovation sphere,” Andrade said. “Artificial
intelligence has limitless potential for improving health outcomes, keeping people safe and finding solutions for the toughest challenges we as Americans face. But, we cannot let these possibilities outweigh genuine concerns rising from our communities. Families and job applicants already face a tough job market and rising challenges to a stable financial future. We cannot allow artificial intelligence to be used, willingly or otherwise, to make that better future out of reach for struggling families. I’m
The Into Action 2024 art gallery’s timeline started with where America has been, where it is now and where people hope it will go in the future. PHOTO BY JOSH COGAN.
DuPage County ACT-SO Launches an Exciting New Season
ACT-SO Recruits and Promotes High Academic Achievement and Cultural Awareness Among African American High School Students to Develop Future Leaders
Bolingbrook, Ill. — DuPage County ACT-SO (Afro-Academic, Cultural, Technological, and Scientific Olympics) is excited to announce the opening of recruitment for the 2024-2025 season, aimed at showcasing the talents of underrepresented students of African descent. The season will officially kick off on Saturday, September 21st, offering students the chance to explore their interests, meet new friends, view past projects, and enjoy live performances.
As the cornerstone of the youth division of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People
(NAACP), ACT-SO serves as an “Olympics” of sorts, designed to highlight the academic and artistic talents of African American high school students. The DuPage County ACT-SO Program provides a platform for these students to develop their skills and gain recognition, culminating in the National NAACP ACTSO competition.
Join the Fight Against Alzheimer’s Disease
Participate in the Alzheimer’s Association Walk to End Alzheimer’s®—the world’s largest event dedicated to raising awareness and funds for Alzheimer’s care, support, and research.
Students can compete in 31 categories: STEM, Business, Humanities, Performing Arts, and Visual Arts. Local gold medalists advance to the National ACTSO Competition, where they compete for monetary awards and prizes. DuPage County ACT-SO, an Illinois branch of the NAACP, prepares students for the national competition through a comprehensive 7-month enrichment program, which includes professional mentoring, college and career readiness, and competition preparation. The program’s primary goals are to promote high academic achievement and cultural awareness among African American high school students while cultivating the next generation of leaders.
positively impacted nearly 300,000 young people across more than 200 communities nationwide, offering mentorship in various fields. Since its inception 46 years ago, ACT-SO has helped shape the career paths of many African American students. Notable alumni include Angela Rye, Anthony Anderson, Kanye West, Leslie Odom Jr., Michelle Williams, Alicia Keys, Lauryn Hill, and Jada Pinkett-Smith.
The continued success of the DuPage County ACT-SO program is made possible by partnerships with Argonne National Laboratory, Fermilab, B-Unity, and Lewis University.
For more information on registration and volunteer opportunities, visit dupageact-so.org.
On Walk day, participants will honor those affected by Alzheimer’s with the meaningful Promise Garden ceremony. This missiondriven experience unites us all in the fight against the disease, with walkers carrying flowers of different colors—each representing a unique connection to Alzheimer’s.
CHATHAM-SOUTHEAST
Chatham, Avalon Park, Park Manor,GreaterGrand Crossing, Burnside,Chesterfield, West Chersterfield, South Shore,and Calumet Heitghts.
SOUTH END
Washington Heights,Roseland,Rosemoor, Englewood,West Englewood, Auburn-Gresham, Morgan Park, Maple Park, Mt. Vernon, Fernwood, Bellevue, Beverly, Pullman, West Pullman, West Pullman,Riverdale, Jeffrey Manor and Hegewisch.
SOUTH SUBURBAN
Serves communities in Harvey, Markham, Phoenix, Robbins, Dixmoor, Calumet Park, Blue Island,SouthHolland,and Dolton. Shopping- their favorite pastime!
HYDE PARK
Lake Meadows, Oakland, Prairie Shores,Douglas, Grand Boulevard, Kenwood, Woodland,South Shore and Hyde Park.
CHICAGO WEEKEND
Chicago Westside Communities, Austin and Garfield Park
SUBURBAN TIMES WEEKLY
BloomTownship, Chicago Heights, Flossmoor,FordHeights, Glenwood, Homewood, Lansing ,Lynwood, Olympia Fileds, Park Forest,Sauk Village,South Chicago and Steger
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ACT-SO is designed to be a rich learning experience. The program’s enrichment and mentorship components offer students valuable tools for their education and substantial support in developing their ACT-SO projects. Students work closely with mentors throughout the year, exploring careers in 33 subject areas within the sciences, humanities, business, and the arts. They also participate in enrichment activities such as workshops and tutorials.
Families interested in enrolling can register online at DuPage ACT-SO Online Registration and attend one of the virtual orientation sessions to learn more about the program’s benefits. Orientation dates are:
September 9, 2024 (7:00 PM)
September 11, 2024 (7:00 PM)
The National ACT-SO program has
Connect with DuPage ACT-SO: Facebook: DuPage ACT-SO LinkedIn: DuPage ACT-SO Business, Arts, and STEM Excellence (B.A.S.E.) is the 501(c)(3) organization that supports the DuPage County ACT-SO program. DuPage County ACTSO was founded in 1979 by Earnest and Carolyn Gibson, both of whom served as Presidents of the DuPage County Branch of the NAACP. The 7-month enrichment program features leadership development sessions, one-on-one mentorship, and service activities, culminating in an academic competition and Awards Banquet in March. Local gold medalists then compete in the National ACT-SO Competition held during the NAACP’s Annual Convention in July.
Founded in 1978 by renowned author and journalist Vernon Jarrett, NAACP ACT-SO was created because there were few opportunities to recognize the talents of students of African descent. ACT-SO was intended to provide a platform, often reserved for entertainers and athletes, to showcase the academic, scientific, and artistic achievement of young people.
Andrade Measure...
proud to have joined the Governor and my colleagues in the House and Senate to pass this needed bill.”
Advocates for fair employment and data security experts have warned that new advancements in AI technology could be used to unfairly disqualify people applying for jobs, mortgages, or credit by analyzing variables that can serve as a clue or proxy for an individuals’ race. In response, the Andrade-backed House
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Bill 3773 bans employers from using AI to discriminate against people of color or low-credit individuals based on race and ZIP code. Housing and neighborhood demographics, websites visited, and other consumer information would be banned from use in employment or credit applications.
House Bill 3773 passed with overwhelming bipartisan support and was signed into law on Friday, Aug. 9.
Nearly 7 million Americans are living with Alzheimer’s disease today. Additionally, more than 11 million family members and friends are providing care for those with Alzheimer’s and other dementias. In Illinois alone, over 233,000 people are living with the disease, supported by 314,000 caregivers. Register now and stay updated on this year’s Walk to End Alzheimer’s by visiting alz.org/walk. About the Walk to End Alzheimer’s®
The Alzheimer’s Association Walk to End Alzheimer’s is the world’s largest event to raise awareness and funds for Alzheimer’s care, support, and research. Since 1989, the Alzheimer’s Association® has mobilized millions of Americans through the Memory Walk®, and now, continues to lead the way with the Walk to End Alzheimer’s. Together, we can end Alzheimer’s.
About the Alzheimer’s Association®
The Alzheimer’s Association is a global voluntary health organization committed to Alzheimer’s care, support, and research. Our mission is to lead the way to end Alzheimer’s and all other dementias—by accelerating global research, driving risk reduction and early detection, and maximizing quality care and support. For more information, visit alz.org or call 800.272.3900.
How More Companies are Saving Time and Money
(StatePoint) Forget the company car of the past— today, businesses and organizations are using sleek, efficient and safe vehicles maintained by professional fleet management companies to get from point A to point B.
“Outsourcing vehicles to a professional fleet management company is a win-win solution for many organizations—it can alleviate administrative headaches while lowering overall costs. And if, like many organizations, yours is seeking to adopt more sustainable practices, this is one way to potentially reduce your company’s environmental footprint,” says Brice Adamson, president, Enterprise Fleet Management, a rapidly expanding operation, which is a testament to the value it provides to businesses.
If you rely on a fleet of 20 or more vehicles to meet your core business goals or are looking for an alternative to an employee vehicle reimbursement program, there are several benefits to partnering with a fleet management company:
Bottom-Line
nance scheduling.
Brand Image: Your company fleet is more than a collection of vehicles—it sends a message to your community and your own employees. A fleet management company can offer vehicle customization with colors and graphics to help advertise your services and project the right image.
Safety: By outsourcing the management of your company fleet, you can rest easy knowing employees are driving newer, well-maintained vehicles equipped with the latest safety technologies, including blind spot warning systems, backup cameras and other features that have become standard vehicle safety equipment.
Savings: Selecting the right vehicle for the right job can help avoid unnecessary costs due to excessive maintenance, fuel expenses, upgrades or even an excess of vehicles. In fact, Enterprise Fleet Management delivered $77 million in total maintenance and repair savings in 2023 for its customers through price negotiations, warranty checks and its National Service Department staffed by a team of ASE-certified technicians.
New Technology: Fleet management companies have access to the latest and greatest technologies, which can streamline your operations and improve the way you do business. These new vehicle technologies have many benefits—from automating fuel expense reports, optimizing routes and monitoring driver performance, to tracking mileage to assist with mainte-
Saving Time: Transitioning from a self-managed to a managed model can free up precious staff hours once dedicated to paperwork, maintenance approvals, negotiations and more, so you can focus on what really matters: your core business goals.
Sustainability: As transportation evolves, it’s important for companies to embrace sustainability as part of their business strategy. Operating vehicles efficiently can help advance your progress toward sustainability goals, like cutting tailpipe carbon emissions through driving electric vehicles, and minimizing gas consumption and related costs through the use of fuel-efficient and hybrid vehicles. A professional fleet management company can guide your business on a course to establish, implement and achieve these goals without sacrificing productivity. They can provide you with newer, more efficient vehicles and help you understand the costs and benefits.
To learn more, visit efleets.com.
At a time of rising overhead costs and shrinking budgets, a fleet management company can help you embrace the company car of the future while still meeting business goals.
State safety experts reviewing Peoples Gas pipe replacement work say the construction needs to continue
CHICAGO — New filings in the Illinois Commerce Commission’s (ICC) review of Peoples Gas work to replace rapidly corroding energy pipes beneath Chicago’s streets show the infrastructure work should continue. In the filings, the ICC’s safety experts say there is an “urgent need” to move forward with construction to ensure safety and reliability in Chicago’s heating system. Peoples Gas has been working to replace the pipes, which date back as far as the 1800s. The ICC paused the work last year to conduct its review.
In a key piece of testimony, an ICC safety engineer stated, “It is important to remember that the longer leak-prone pipe remains under Chicago streets, the greater the risk of a catastrophic event that could endanger life and property. In a system as aged as Peoples’ distribution system, the likelihood of leaks increases with each passing year that vintage pipes remain in the ground.”
In addition to saying work should proceed, the expert testimony recommends Peoples Gas continue its approach of installing key safety devices, such as excess flow valves and external shut-off valves. The testimony calls them “significant safety features” that “contribute to a safer and more reliable distribution system.”
The ICC experts’ recommendations align with an
earlier independent engineering study that determined pipe replacement should move forward as quickly as possible. That study, done in 2020, found the vast majority of pipes in Chicago’s system had less than 15 years of life left.
“The conclusions by ICC experts confirm what prior research showed and what our own construction teams have been seeing underground for years,” said Bill Mastoris, president — Peoples Gas. “It is critical this very old system be modernized. We must work together proactively to ensure Chicagoans have a safe, reliable heating system.”
A modernized system also will enhance environmental sustainability by stopping leaks, enabling the delivery of renewable natural gas, and positioning Chicago to use clean hydrogen and other emerging decarbonization technologies.
As part of the ICC’s ongoing review, Peoples Gas has provided construction modifications for regulators to consider. These include changes like scope reduction in part of the work, new ways to prioritize and target infrastructure, and prioritizing work in parts of Chicago that are most economically vulnerable.
The ICC is expected to make a final decision about the infrastructure work in January 2025.
Black Girl Vitamins and Howard University Announce Multi-Year Partnership Deal As Official Vitamin Sponsor for the University Women’s Basketball Team
(Black PR Wire) Black Girl Vitamins, a pioneering wellness brand dedicated to addressing the unique health needs of Black women, is proud to announce an exciting and transformative multiyear partnership with renowned HBCU, Howard University – Bison Women’s Basketball team, providing direct monetary sponsorship and essential vitamins to players and coaches.
The partnership between Black Girl Vitamins and Howard University comes at a pivotal moment – as Howard University celebrates 50 years of women’s athletics with a storied legacy boasting nine MEAC regular season titles and 11 tournament championships over the past five decades. This is a powerful step towards equity, inclusion, and empowerment for Black women – addressing historical underrepresentation, underservice, and underfunding of women’s sports, especially within collegiate basketball.
I’m extremely excited about this partnership! As a huge supporter of those who positively impact the Black community and beyond, Black Girl Vitamins has created a brand and product that promotes health and well-being for us. I look forward to the great things ahead!
A Commitment Supporting Black Excellence
Since its inception, Black Girl Vitamins has been at the forefront of promoting health and wellness within the Black community, offering a range of vitamins tailored specifically for Black women’s nutritional requirements. Furthering their commitment to education, a $1,000 monthly school scholarship is awarded to a deserving Black women student. In addition to the monthly scholarship program, Black Girl Vitamins has committed to awarding up to $100,000 this year to advance the careers of Black health practitioners because when Black women are healthy, our communities are too.
Founded in 1867, Howard University is a private, research university that is comprised of 14 schools and colleges. Students pursue more than 140 programs of study leading to undergraduate, graduate, and professional degrees. The University operates with a commitment to Excellence in Truth and Service and has produced two Schwarzman Scholars, four Marshall Scholars, four Rhodes Scholars, 12 Truman Scholars, 25 Pickering Fellows and more than 165 Fulbright recipients. Howard also produces more on-campus African American PhD. recipients than any other university in the United States. For more information on Howard University, visit www.howard.edu.
Our Mission Is Ensuring Black Women Continue To Thrive. Black Girl Vitamins was created to improve the well-being of Black women everywhere – providing us with accessible, affordable, and effective essential vitamin and mineral supplements that combat chronic deficiencies and correct cosmetic concerns.
When Black Women Are Healthy, Our Communities Are Too. While most over-the-counter women’s vitamins follow FDA guidelines, these guidelines often fail to consider our unique health and dietary needs, including nutritional deficiencies. As women of color, we often lack essential vitamins such as magnesium, calcium, iron, folic acid, – and specifically for Black women – vitamin D because our pigmentation reduces its production in the skin. Vitamin D protects against chronic conditions such as heart disease, Type 2 Diabetes, and certain cancers. It’s also linked to conditions such as depression, high blood pressure, colon, breast, and prostate cancer, and obesity.
Unwavering Commitment to Our Culture. Our company is our culture. By carefully curating a collection of ingredients, we strive to create superior supplements that are tailored to and for us.
BlackPRWire
PHOTO SOURCE: (c) Paul Bradbury / iStock via Getty Images Plus
NEW ERA DROPS ITS “FOREVER
NEW YORK” FW24 COLLECTION IN COLLABORATION WITH THE NFL
BUFFALO, N.Y., PRNewswire -- New Era Cap LLC, the international sports and lifestyle brand, announced its FW24 collection featuring the “Forever New York” campaign with the NFL just in time for NFL Kickoff taking place on Sept. 5. Queens native and profes sional BMX athlete Nigel Sylvester, was tapped to creative direct and curate the fashion-forward looks. Inspired by his roots and connection to the Big Apple, Sylvester’s energetic style as a tastemaker at the intersection of sports and fashion brings forth this first of its kind campaign as the creative advisor sourcing talent and overall look of the campaign. All 32 teams in the league are represented in the full apparel line, featuring hats, hoodies and tees including the NY Giants and the NY Jets.
Ahead of its official debut, Sylvester enlisted iconic New Yorkers to serve as the lead models for the campaign with a nod to the New York Giants and the New York Jets. Sylvester adds a distinct flair to the pieces that blend street fashion with high-end styling for an New York centric look and feel. Rapper and Harlem, NY na tive Dave East, fellow Queens native, world-renowned jeweler Greg Yuna and radio producer Scottie Beam from the Bronx are just a few of Sylvester’s inner circle featured in the campaign.
This partnership, featuring NFL, reunites longtime collaborators New Era and Nigel Sylvester, who first worked together in 2017 and have since launched several successful brand campaigns.
“Working with Nigel once again allows us to tap into his unique vision as both a creative and athlete who fuses artistry with functionality,” said Mark Maidment,
SVP of Brand and Marketing at New Era. “This campaign reaffirms our dedication to sports culture and passion for innovative design to those seeking an elevated style that feels disruptive and authentic to individual expression.”
“Creative freedom to push the boundaries of sport, art, and fashion has inspired me for years throughout my journey as an unconventional athlete in the world of sport. As a creative advisor for this campaign, I personally selected these individuals for what they represent and for their deep connection and impact in their respective communities here in the city.” Sylvester said.
Available nationwide for both men and women, New Era’s FW2024 collection is offered across all major leagues including MLB, NBA, NHL and more, giving fans a chance to rep their favorite teams in style with hats, hoodies, tees as a foundation to anyone’s personal style throughout the fall and winter seasons. The apparel line is on sale now at https://www.neweracap.com/ and other local and national retailers.
Since 1920, New Era has been hand-crafting the finest headwear in the world. Towith an expansive portfolio of global licenses, the addition of apparel and accessories lines, and 1,000+ worldwide retail store network, the brand is a market leader rooted in sports and an influencer of street and lifestyle culture around the world. The Company is headquartered in Buffalo, N.Y., and its products are sold in more than 125 countries. For more information on New Era’s global offices and partnerships, visit www. neweracap.com and social channels @neweracap.
CASIO TO RELEASE FOURTH G-SHOCK RUI HACHIMURA SIGNATURE MODEL
TOKYO, PRNewswire -- Casio Computer Co., Ltd. announced today the release of the GBM-2100RH, a new addition to the G-SHOCK brand of shock-resistant watches. This new signature model marks a fourth collaborative effort between the brand and Rui Hachimura, a professional basketball player for the Los Angeles Lakers in the NBA league.
Casio sees the toughness Hachimura displays as an athlete pushing himself to the limit in the world’s top basketball league as a terrific match with the G-SHOCK concept of tough watches delivering strength against shock. The company signed a global partnership agreement with Hachimura in 2019 to support him as he pursues great things.
The GBM-2100RH is the first of the Rui Hachimura signature models to be based on the GBM-2100, a shock-resistant timepiece featuring an octagonal metal bezel that is equipped with
Smartphone Link and the Tough Solar charging system. Taking inspiration from a basketball court, the gold-toned dial employs a wood pattern in transparent printing that evokes the hard-
wood floor of the basketball court, with the area beneath the basket — where Hachimura really shines — marked in white. The LCD captures the look of the shot clock counting down the seconds. The symbol 八 (hachi in Japanese, meaning “eight”), representing his name, is engraved at the eight o’clock position, adding a unique, personal touch. Hachimura’s signature “Black Samurai” logo, which combines 八 with a Japanese sword to form the “H” in “Hachimura,” is engraved on the band loop and incorporated into the packaging design. His signature is also engraved on the case back.
Rui Hachimura comments, “We created this G-SHOCK Rui Hachimura signature model in the hope that it will be worn by people who enjoy both sports and fashion. The design incorporates my favorite colors and ‘Black Samurai’ logo. Be sure to try this watch for yourself.”
cottie Beam for the New Era “Forever New York” FW24 Collection. New Era Cap
Dave East for the New Era “Forever New York” FW24 Collection. New Era Cap
LANDMARKS ILLINOIS ANNOUNCES WINNERS OF 2024 LANDMARKS ILLINOIS RICHARD H. DRIEHAUS FOUNDATION PRESERVATION AWARDS
CHICAGO – Landmarks Illinois has announced the winners of the 2024 Landmarks Illinois Richard H. Driehaus Foundation Preservation Awards, an annual program honoring exceptional preservation efforts across Illinois. This year, the Landmarks Illinois Richard H. Driehaus Foundation Preservation Awards are honoring rehabilitation and adaptive reuse projects in Alto Pass, Carterville, Chicago, Elgin, Rockford and Woodstock. The people behind these remarkable preservation projects will be honored at a public ceremony on Oct. 18, in Chicago. Details on the award winners and ceremony are below.
“Our 2024 award winners exemplify the creativity and passion people have for safeguarding our historic places and the stories they tell,” said Bonnie McDonald, President & CEO of Landmarks Illinois. “Their work inspires us and others across the state to think boldly about how our built environment can adapt throughout time to serve the community and spark local economic development. These award winners deserve our recognition not only for the countless hours they poured into these projects but for ensuring places of our past live on and continue to enhance our future.”
2024 AWARD
RECIPIENTS
Havisham Bourbon, Brew & Spirits, Alto Pass Award for Adaptive Use
Nick and Jerri Schaefer brought their vision to life by restoring Alto Pass’ oldest commercial building to create a speakeasy-styled bourbon bar, private tasting room and overnight rentals. The husband-and-wife team fully restored the former flour mill built in the 1860s into a unique destination along the highly traveled Shawnee Hills Wine Trail in Southern Illinois.
Montgomery’s Place, Carterville Award for Rehabilitation
For her fourth major preservation project in her hometown, Carterville native Jennifer Spence imaginatively
renovated the long-neglected Montgomery’s Place building to create a welcoming restaurant, event space, bar and coffee shop. Spence transformed what was once an eyesore in the Southern Illinois city’s downtown into a bustling local business and unique community gathering space that celebrates the building’s century-old original features and Carterville’s history.
Historic Lawson House, Chicago Award for Rehabilitation & Richard H. Driehaus Legacy Award
Holsten Real Estate Development Corporation and Holsten Human Capital Development, NFP, led a massive rehabilitation of the former Lawson House, a 24-story Art-Deco skyscraper in downtown Chicago originally built as a single-room occupancy facility for the YMCA. Today, the Lawson House provides more than 400 apartment units and social services for low-income residents, many of whom have previously experienced homelessness.
Ramova Theatre, Chicago Award for Adaptive Use
After sitting empty for nearly 40 years, the Ramova Theatre in Chicago’s Bridgeport neighborhood has reopened following an extensive rehabilitation led by husband-andwife team Tyler and Emily Nevius. The historic former movie theater, built in 1929, has been adaptively reused as a concert hall, craft brewery, taproom and grill to host live performances as well as educational programs for the community.
Salt Shed, Chicago Award for Adaptive Use
16 on Center, Blue Star Properties, R2 Companies and Sky Deck combined forces to lead the transformative reimagining of the former Morton Salt processing and distribution factory into a thriving music and events venue. The project brought back to life an iconic landmark along the Chicago River, sparking economic development,
creating jobs and attracting people to a new part of the city long home to primarily industrial activity.
The Terminal, Chicago Award for Adaptive Use
A sprawling former manufacturing campus in Chicago’s Humboldt Park is once again a hub of innovation thanks to a creative reuse of the historic buildings led by IBT Group. After sitting empty for decades, The Terminal has been reimagined into a state-of-the-art research facility providing office and lab space for Chicago’s scientists, researchers and technicians.
1212 Larkin, Elgin Award for Rehabilitation
The historic Larkin Center, built in 1912 and vacant since 2013, has been reactivated as the centerpiece of the affordable housing development, 1212 Larkin. The thoughtfully designed adaptive reuse project, led by Full Circle Communities, created 48 quality housing units that resemble Elgin’s characteristic historic architecture.
Midtown FAUST Company, Rockford Award for Rehabilitation
Brad and Sue Roos bought and renovated Rockford’s Midtown FAUST Building to bring economic development and energy to their historic neighborhood, which has long experienced disinvestment and low commercial occupancy. The couple led the complete rehabilitation of the 3,500-square-foot building constructed in 1920, focusing on quality craftsmanship and sustainability. Today, it houses a pottery studio, office space for a local nonprofit and Roos’ woodshop.
Old Courthouse Center, Woodstock Award for Adaptive Use
The City of Woodstock completed an extensive rehabilitation of the historic Old McHenry County Courthouse and Continue on page 7
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Sheriff’s House, returning the deteriorating local landmark to a lively downtown attraction. Old Courthouse Center is now a multi-use, fully accessible development that includes a restaurant, retail spaces and events venue. Once again, it serves as a hub of economic activity in the heart of the Woodstock Square National Historic District.
The 2024 Landmarks Illinois Richard H. Driehaus Foundation Preservation Awards Ceremony will take place from 6 to 9 p.m. on Friday, October 18, 2024, at Apollo’s 2000, 2875 W. Cermak Road in Chicago. The event will feature a sit-down awards ceremony and cocktail reception.
The event is open to the public. Tickets are $60 for Landmarks Illinois members and $75 for non-members. A student rate of $25 is also available with proof of a student ID. Former winners of the Landmarks Illinois Richard H. Driehaus Foundation Preservation Awards are highly encouraged to attend and can also receive a discounted ticket.
Guests who wish to join remotely can view a live, virtual presentation of the ceremony for free with registration. To learn more or to purchase tickets, visit our website.
Landmarks Illinois is a membership-based, historic preservation nonprofit organization dedicated to preserving, protecting and promoting the places people across Illinois value. We advocate for the sustainable reuse of historic resources, provide expertise and free resources on preservation and work to ensure that historic places remain a vital part of the state’s communities. We are People Saving Places for People. For more information, visit www.Landmarks.org.
PAUL NICKLEN TO PRESENT “REVERENCE” NATURE PHOTOGRAPHY EXHIBITION AT HILTON
CONTEMPORARY
CHICAGO – Hilton Contemporary today announced a specially curated exhibition of new and archival images drawn from the works of world-renowned photographer Paul Nicklen. The exhibition, titled “Reverence,” calls on viewers to cherish our planet with the respect and sacredness it deserves. Nicklen’s close, intimate portraits of wildlife bring viewers faceto-face with pumas, wolves, whales and more, revealing their roles as integral parts of an ancient order of life 4 billion years in the making. “Reverence” will be spread across Hilton Contemporary’s two galleries in River North (716 N. Wells St.) and Bridgeport at the Morgan Arts Complex (3622 S. Morgan St.). The exhibition is free and open to the public and will be on-view through Nov. 9, 2024.
“We’re honored to have the opportunity to display the works of a photographer whose devotion to and love of nature is unmatched,” said Arica Hilton, owner of Hilton Contemporary galleries. “Paul’s tireless efforts to help pass legislation to protect our oceans and the life that resides within and on our earth, is an important part of our mission to exhibit works that pulsate with vitality and leave viewers with a heightened appreciation and understanding of our natural world.”
Recently featured in the National Geographic series “Photographer” alongside Mittermeier, Paul Nicklen’s new works on display feature pumas that Nicklen shot in a recent trip to Patagonia, Chile, in addition to landscape photos of Lençóis Maranhenses National Park in Brazil.
Raised in the remote Arctic, Nicklen developed a deep love for wildlife at a young age, nurtured by the rugged landscapes of his home on Baffin Island and the influence of his predominantly Inuit community. His childhood passion for nature led him to pursue a career as a marine biologist before transitioning to photography, eventually leading to a 20-year career at National Geographic Magazine where he documented both the beauty
and the plight of our planet.
Known for enduring extreme expeditions across the world’s most isolated environments, Nicklen’s photography quickly garnered international acclaim as a voice for the voiceless and vulnerable wildlife. His evolution through the intersection of art, conservation and science spans from the shores of Antarctica to the depths of the South Pacific. Through his visceral imagery, Nicklen challenges viewers’ perceptions of nature and encourages a shared sense of kinship among all life.
Nicklen has garnered more than 30 of the highest accolades given to any photographer in his field, earning a global following of celebrities, conservationists and fans. He has published more than 20 stories for National Geographic and has been the recipient of the BBC Wildlife Photographer of the Year Award and the prestigious World Press Photo award for photojournalism. In 2016, Nicklen played an instrumental role in passing a groundbreaking piece of conservation legislation that designated vast portions of the United States’ Arctic Ocean as indefinitely off limits for future oil and gas leasing.
Accompanying Nicklen’s work will be photographs by Cristina Goettsch Mittermeier, also an acclaimed nature photographer who has been globally recognized as one of the most influential wildlife writers and conservationists, having been named a National Geographic Woman of Impact in 2018. Mittermeier recently debuted her solo exhibition at Hilton Contemporary in July 2024 to an overwhelming reception by collectors from around the world. The exhibition, “HOPE: A PRELUDE,” is on-view at Hilton Contemporary through October 2024. Hilton Contemporary River North is open Monday through Saturday from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. The Bridgeport location is open Tuesday through Saturday 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. “Reverence” is free and open to the public to view. To learn more about “Reverence” or Hilton Contemporary, visit hiltoncontemporary.com.
MOËT HENNESSY AND BEYONCÉ KNOWLES-CARTER
Launch Groundbreaking New Whisky - SirDavis
NEW YORK, PRNewswire -- Beyoncé Knowles-Carter has joined forces with Moët Hennessy, a subsidiary of LVMH, to create SirDavis, a groundbreaking new whisky. The first-of-its-kind joint venture reflects a shared vision between Knowles-Carter and Moët Hennessy, two vanguards of culture and craft, around the future of American whisky.
This unique product was years in the making after Knowles-Carter, a Japanese whisky enthusiast, sought out Moët Hennessy to help craft a one-of-a-kind flavor profile that reflected her whisky ideal. Meanwhile, Moët Hennessy had been exploring ways to deepen its presence in the American whisky market, making the timing kismet for a partnership between the world-leading luxury group and Knowles-Carter.
“I’ve always been drawn to the power and confidence I feel when drinking quality whisky and wanted to invite more people to experience that feeling,” says SirDavis Founder Beyoncé Knowles-Carter. “When I discovered that my great-grandfather had been a moonshine man, it felt like my love for whisky was fated. SirDavis is a way for me to pay homage to him, uniting us through a new shared legacy. In partnering with Moët Hennessy, we have crafted a delicious American whisky that respects tradition but also empowers people to experience something new and unique in the category. You can taste it better than I could ever tell you — welcome, SirDavis.”
SirDavis is named in honor of Davis Hogue, Knowles-Carter’s paternal great-grandfather, who was a farmer and a moonshiner in the American South during Prohibition. He stashed whisky bottles in the empty knots of cedar trees for friends and kin to find and enjoy. For Knowles-Carter, it was this discovery that made the idea of creating a whisky brand feel predestined. Four generations later, the legacy comes to life - rather than hidden in the trees, bottles of SirDavis proudly grace the top shelves of fine purveyors of spirits around the world.
mitment to excellence was key to the partnership and the product. To validate SirDavis’s quality, the liquid was anonymously submitted to numerous prestigious spirits competitions prior to launch. SirDavis won Best In Class for American Whiskey from the 2023 SIP Awards, outperforming over 100 other entries in the category. Awarded to only one brand per category, this award is reserved for premium spirits receiving scores in the pinnacle of their respective categories and is SIP’s highest acclaim from consumer judges.
Other notable scores include a Gold Medal (95 points) from the 2023 New York International Spirits Competition and a 93-point rating from the 2023 Ultimate Spirits Challenge.
Knowles-Carter also lent her visionary artistic direction to the brand’s bottle design - a tall, eye-catching bottle with intentional design elements that make the vessel an unmistakable beacon of luxury.
The SirDavis bottle is striking and clean, with ribbed glass that beautifully catches light and highlights the liquid. It also features a black medallion with a regal bronzed horse, emblematic of strength and respect and symbolizing Knowles-Carter’s Texas roots.
In another nod to Knowles-Carter’s Southern heritage, the whisky is finished, blended and bottled in her home state of Texas. Unlike other acquired brands, SirDavis also makes history as Moët Hennessy’s first spirits brand developed entirely internally by Moët Hennessy in the United States. SirDavis is headquartered out of Houston, Texas.
SirDavis retails for $89 and is available for pre-order via SirDavis.com. Product is available at retail across the U.S. as well as in select airports (LAX/JFK/SFO) and stores in London, Paris, and Tokyo.
COLUMBIA, S.C., PRNewswire -- On July 26, legendary athlete Bo Jackson spoke at a Retailer Appreciation Event in conjunction with the National Sports Collectors Convention in Cleveland, Ohio to officially announce the launch of Bo Jackson Battle Arena, the first trading card game experience to feature on-card autographs, game-used jersey relics, and serialized rarity and “shortprint” frameworks similar to sports cards.
Bo Jackson Battle Arena combines the pack ripping excitement of sports cards with the persistent fun of a trading card game where athletes and fans become superheroes, and Playmakers assemble their squads to save the day. At the event, Bo emphasized how the ease of gameplay, as well as the nostalgia evoked by the characters, the Home Team Heroes, led him to become an investor and founding partner.
“I have a lot of people, companies come after me –and I turn down a lot of things. With this game, in five minutes, I had it down, and I was playing it. And not only that, I like the characters in it. Cartoon characters that emulate a lot of the stuff that I did as a kid. Nobody had ever approached me with that.” – Bo Jackson
The game has three difficulty levels (Rookie, Substitution, and Playmaker) to appeal to a variety of players ages 8 to 80+. The Alpha Edition will feature multiple product configurations with varying chances to hit serialized cards, Secret Rares, shiny Battlefoils, “Inspired Ink” on-card autographs, and even game-worn patch relics from superstar athletes.
Bo offered other remarks which illustrated just how broadly he believes the appeal of Battle Arena can be in the years to come.
“For some reason my golf tournaments get rained out a lot and everyone wants to sit around and play cards. Well now I’ll have decks of *my game* for them to play… and I guarantee by the end of the summer my grandson and I will be playing… This game is my Tecmo Bowl.” - Bo Jackson
Battle Arena is expected to hit retail shelves November 2024. Check the Store Locator to find your local shop - or refer them to GTS Distribution or Southern Hobby Distribution to stock.
“SirDavis is not only a revelatory and exceptional American Whisky, which we are very proud of. It is also a testament of the unwavering dedication to craftsmanship, heritage and innovation shared by LVMH and Beyoncé Knowles-Carter,” said Bernard Arnault, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of LVMH.
Moët Hennessy tapped Dr. Bill Lumsden, one of the world’s most awarded and highly regarded Master Distillers for his work on Scotch whisky brands Glenmorangie and Ardbeg, to lead on whisky creation.
Lumsden selected the brand’s bespoke mash bill — one of the rarest new offerings in the world of American whisky composed of 51% rye and 49% malted barley — to serve as the backbone of the liquid. Lumsden then combined traditional whisky-making techniques to impart an elegant mouthfeel and texture reminiscent of Japanese and Scotch whiskies, while retaining the robust and deep flavors typical of classic American rye.
“With SirDavis, we looked to challenge the category norms and offer something new in the space,” said Lumsden. “The distinctive grain selection and unusual secondary maturation in sherry casks helped us achieve a signature profile completely unique to SirDavis, one of bold sophistication.”
Moët Hennessy and Knowles-Carter’s shared com-
A first-of-its-kind joint venture, SirDavis reflects a shared vision between Moët Hennessy and Beyoncé Knowles-Carter around the future of American whisky. With a distinctive taste profile that delights both seasoned whisky connoisseurs and new enthusiasts, SirDavis is on a mission to redefine the category and invite new consumers to feel welcome to participate in the world of luxury whisky.
Crafted with Moet Hennessy’s own five-time International Whisky Competition Master Distiller of the Year Dr. Bill Lumsden, SirDavis offers a one-of-akind taste profile that redefines the taste of American whisky with inspiration from Japanese and Scottish styles. In an evolution from category norms, the SirDavis mash bill includes 51% rye and a noteworthy 49% barley. The spirit’s secondary maturation in sherry casks resulted in its silky, sophisticated profile with layers of dark red fruits and spices like clove and cinnamon. This duality of rounding out rye’s characteristically spicy notes with structured flavors of juicy red fruit offers an entirely new interpretation of this spirit, suitable for connoisseurs and newcomers alike. The award-winning liquid received Platinum and was named Best In Class by the 2023 SIP Awards, 95 points and Gold from the 2023 New York International Spirits Competition, and 93 points from the 2023 Ultimate Spirits Challenge. SirDavis is finished, blended and bottled in Knowles-Carter’s home state of Texas.
Built to entertain a wide range of ages, Battle Arena will test your strategy – and your luck – with enjoyable gameplay and an innovative collectibility framework. Can you Make The Play and Save The Day?!
SirDavis. Moët Hennessy
Photos By L.M. Warbington Photography
TIME
AND TIME FOR KIDS Name the 2024 Kid of the Year: 15-Year-Old Scientist Heman Bekele
(Black PR Wire) TIME and TIME for Kids reveal the 2024 Kid of the Year, recognizing one exceptional young person—and five honorees—giving hope for the future.
This year’s recipient is 15-year-old scientist Heman Bekele from Fairfax, Virginia. He is recognized for developing an affordable compound-based bar of soap that could in the future be a new and more accessible way to deliver medication to treat skin cancers, including melanoma.
Bekele tells TIME: “I’m really passionate about skin-cancer research…. whether it’s my own research or what’s happening in the field. It’s absolutely incredible to think that one day my bar of soap will be able to make a direct impact on somebody else’s life. That’s the reason I started this all in the first place.”
--Read the cover story and watch the interview with 2024 Kid of the Year Heman Bekele. https:// bit.ly/46N1413
--See the TIME cover, featuring a photograph by Dina Litovsky for TIME. https://bit.ly/4dfikOX
The other five 2024 Kid of the Year honorees
include: inventor Shanya Gill (13, San Jose, CA), advocate Madhvi Chittoor (12, Arvada, CO), advocate Jordan Sucato (15, Phoenix, AZ), actor Keivonn Woodard (11, Bowie, MD), and entrepreneur Dom Pecora (15, Malvern, PA). Read the Kid of the Year honoree profiles: https://bit.ly/3Ae3iuh
Of the new list, TIME’s editors write: “For over a century, TIME has covered influence and leadership. Typically, those we recognize are fully grown adults—in the prime of their careers or sage elders reflecting on long experience. But there are exceptions…. In fact, young people are some of the most impressive individuals out there…. That’s why we choose to recognize TIME’s Kid of the Year.”
To select the 2024 Kid of the Year, TIME solicited nominations for young leaders who are making admirable contributions in a range of fields—including social justice, science, and business. Editors and writers combed through submissions and conducted research to identify stand-out kids in the U.S. ages 8-16. Then, as part of the selection process, a team of TIME for Kids Kid Reporters weighed in on the finalists. https://bit.ly/3WB0jDQ
STORYCORPS LAUNCHES BRIGHTNESS IN BLACK: A MULTI-YEAR INITIATIVE TO EXPAND NARRATIVES OF THE BLACK EXPERIENCE NATIONWIDE
BROOKLYN, N.Y., PRNewswire -- StoryCorps, the renowned nonprofit dedicated to fostering belief in each other by highlighting our shared humanity, announces the launch of a major new initiative, Brightness in Black. The three-year initiative – with support from Michael Jordan and the Jordan Brand’s Black Community Commitment – will collect and amplify stories that showcase the nuance, complexity, and richness of the Black experience, challenging the pervasive narratives of Black life in America that are often limited and deficit-framed.
Each year, Brightness in Black will work intensively in two different Anchor Communities, collaborating with local media and community organizations to capture asset-framed stories of the Black community, working with partners on content co-creation and distribution, and hosting local events. The goal of the regional effort is to build capacity to sustain narrative change work in these communities long-term. This year’s Anchor Communities are Philadelphia and Atlanta, with the remaining four locations to be announced. Stories also will be collected at pop-up events across the country. In addition, Brightness in Black will launch a national content distribution effort, in collaboration with Black media outlets, inviting Black Americans across the country to record their stories, virtually and in-person.
have largely been depicted as one-dimensional and over-simplified. Brightness in Black encourages the Black community nationwide to challenge and reclaim this narrative by sharing their personal stories of triumph, challenges, resilience, and gratitude. StoryCorps has developed a tried and trusted method for preserving the voices of everyday people and is uniquely positioned to develop this initiative.”
The initiative will officially kick off in the Brightness in Black Anchor Community of Philadelphia, with a launch event on September 14, 2024, at the Kimmel Center for the Performing Arts from noon5pm. The family friendly event is free and open to the public and will feature a recitation of an original poem for the occasion by Kai Davis, Philadelphia’s Poet Laureate. Additional activities will include community activations; the opportunity for attendees to record an interview in the StoryCorps airstream mobile booth; a host of live performances by artists including Seraiah Nicole; a panel discussion; multimedia displays; and more.
tial and designed for rising junior and senior students attending HBCUs (historically Black colleges and universities) or community colleges within the program’s Anchor Community regions. As part of the fellowship, six students in each cohort will receive personal and professional development, specialized facilitator training and a supportive learning community guided by StoryCorps staff, community partners, local content creators, and their fellow cohort members. Throughout the program, fellows will facilitate, record, and help archive interviews, while working on personal Brightness in Black recording projects of their own choosing.
Record with Brightness in Black
There are a number of ways to participate in a Brightness in Black recording, either virtually or in person. Participants can record with a partner of their choice for a standard 50-minute conversation or alone for a shorter, twenty-minute recording. To record virtually, participants can use StoryCorps’ free recording tools such as the StoryCorps App and StoryCorps Connect, or record in person at a StoryCorps event or at one of StoryCorps’ Mobile Tour stops (schedule below). Participants will have the option to share their stories with others by adding it to StoryCorps’ archive in the Library of Congress American Folklife Center, contributing to a more authentic and dynamic portrayal of Black life today.
StoryCorps CEO Sandra Clark said, “We are honored to launch this important initiative with support from Michael Jordan and the Jordan Brand’s Black Community Commitment. For too long, Black stories
“The Jordan Brand’s commitment to the Black community is infinite—central to who we are as a brand,” said Sarah Mensah, Jordan Brand President. “We are incredibly proud to be a part of the work StoryCorps is driving with Brightness in Black, ensuring that the voices and stories of the Black community remain a part of our collective history.”
Brightness in Black HBCU Fellowship Program
The year-long Fellowship Program is non-residen-
2024 StoryCorps Mobile Tour Schedule 8/8-9/6: Philadelphia, PA – WHYY 9/14: Philadelphia, PA – Kimmel Center for Performing Arts
9/12-10/4: Huntington, WV – WVPB 10/10-11/8: Knoxville, TN – WUOT 11/11-12/13: New Orleans, LA – WWNO
For more information on the Brightness in Black initiative and programming, visit storycorps.org/bib.
was
istered
undersigned with the County Clerk of Cook County. Registration Number: G24000375 on August 9, 2024. Under the Assumed Business Name of PHILAMESSENGER with the business located at: 4932 N MENARD AVE, CHICAGO, IL 60630 The true and real full name(s) and residence address of the owner(s)/partner(s) is: Owner/Partner Full Name Complete Address JOSEPH G LARIOSA 4932 N MENARD AVE CHICAGO, IL 60630, USA
(StatePoint) Black/African American womenowned businesses make significant contributions to the economy and are key to driving small business growth. In fact, according to the Wells Fargo 2024 Impact of Women-Owned Businesses Report, between 2019 and 2023, Black/African American women-owned businesses saw average revenues increase 32.7%, compared to 12.1% for all women-owned businesses. In spite of this impressive growth, systemic disparities in funding and mentorship opportunities persist. Fortunately, new programs are addressing these gaps.
Funding Opportunities
Financing is central to any business venture, but research shows that women of color receive less than 0.2% of venture-capital funding. With about 61% of Black women entrepreneurs self-funding their businesses, they exhibit higher levels of debt, facing an unfair disadvantage from the start.
New bank and philanthropic programs are helping Black women identify capital opportunities to build sustainable small businesses. In addition to traditional lending, working with Community Development Financial Institutions (CDFIs) and Minority Depository Institutions (MDIs) can create an ecosystem of support that provides additional avenues to accessing capital. These institutions specifically work with underserved entrepreneurs, including those in low-tomoderate income areas and minority populations. Supporting these organizations and their mission was at the heart of the creation of initiatives like Wells Fargo’s Open for Business Fund, an industry-leading effort that has donated roughly $420 million to nonprofits serving small businesses; the Small Business Resource Navigator, an online portal connecting small business owners to potential financing options and technical assistance through CDFIs; the Capital Pathways Workbook, a free resource that helps entrepreneurs map their capital needs to business goals and objectives; and a Wells Fargo-backed $70 million fund in partnership with Hello Alice to improve access to credit and capital for underserved entrepreneurs.
These programs are helping to dismantle financial barriers and build an environment where Black/African American women-owned businesses can scale, grow and build for the future.
Harnessing Mentorship
Beyond funding, the success and sustainable growth of a small business relies on guidance and community support. That’s why it’s so important to invest in education and mentorship programs specifically designed for Black/African American women entrepreneurs. This level of support is at the heart of Milestone Circles, a mentoring program for women entrepreneurs offered by the Nasdaq Entrepreneurial Center and funded by the Wells Fargo Foundation. The majority of
