Chicago Weekend Citizen 2-9-2022

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BUSINESS

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WEEKEND

WEEKLY

Jim Henson’s Creture Shop Welcomes Dawn Turner

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P4 FREE | VOL 53 | ISSUE 7

BASKETBALL PLAYER WANTS

George Blakeney, Jr., is a professional basketball player and entrepreneur who founded You Can Foundation as a way to increase opportunities for young people to reach their goals.

YOUTH TO REACH HIGH LEVELS OF SUCCESS

PHOTO PROVIDED BY AILEEN BEDEAU

George Blakeney, Jr. founded the You Can Foundation because of his love for people in general, but children specifically. He loves giving back. He would give the shirt off his back to help other people have a better day or make people smile.

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Dove Launches ‘As Early As Five’ P5

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Vision Films Highlights Slate of New Releases Honoring Black History Month P8

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Black History Focus

briefly After School Matters® Supporting Nearly 8,000 Chicago Teens this Spring

Applications are open for more than 400 world class, remote and in-person programs being offered this spring through After School Matters®. Program opportunities are free and are available for nearly 8,000 Chicago teens in the arts, communications and leadership, sports, and STEM. The 11-week spring session begins the week of Tuesday, Feb. 22. Interested teens can apply by visiting afterschoolmatters.org.

After School Matters will continue to offer both in-person and remote programs to teens this spring, allowing them to have fun, gain new skills, and explore with their peers however they feel most comfortable. Most programs will continue to take place remotely but a variety of safe, in-person opportunities for teens will be offered across Chicago at After School Matters locations and in partnership with community-based organizations, following CDC, State, and City guidelines. All spring programs are paid apprenticeships and internships, and participants will earn a stipend between $275-$750 , depending on the length of time and level of expertise required for the program.

Spring programs provide teens an opportunity to expand their subject-matter skills while developing critical thinking proficiencies in problem solving, social awareness, collaboration, and more. Programs offer hands-on, project-based learning opportunities facilitated by highly skilled instructor-mentors. Teens who need access to technology will be able to acquire devices through After School Matters.

Teens can search and apply for in-person and remote spring 2022 programs at afterschoolmatters. org. All After School Matters programs are free and open to Chicago high school students who are at least 14 years old (16 years old for internships). As part of the application process, teens interview with program instructors to discuss their interests. Teens are encouraged to apply early, as program opportunities fill up quickly.

For questions about programs and applications, call 312-768-5200 or email applications@ afterschoolmatters.org. Para mas información en Español llámenos al 312-846-7106 o mándenos un correo electrónico al espanol@afterschoolmatters.org.

For more information, visit www. afterschoolmatters.org.

Harold Washington Centennial Birthday Celebration Planned Harold Washington College Celebrate Mayor Harold Washington’s Centennial Birthday with a Digital Book Launch Harold Washington College and the Mayor Harold Washington Legacy Committee (MHWLC) will proudly announce the release of a free digital book celebrating the life and legacy of Chicago’s first Black during a virtual African-American History Month webinar celebration to be held from 5 6:30 p.m. on Wednesday, Feb. 9. During the event, book excerpts will be shared, and the full book will be available in the coming weeks.

This exciting virtual event is free and open to the public. Registration is required. Tickets are available on Eventbrite, click here to register today.

The digital book, HERE’S Harold! The Man, The Moment, The Movement is a collection of spectacular and rare images and filled with moving reflections from Legacy Committee members and others who were personally impacted by Chicago’s 51st Mayor’s work and legacy. HERE’S Harold is intended to educate and inspire people of all ages and ethnic backgrounds in hope of keeping the historic civic legacy and activist momentum of Harold Washington alive for the generations to come. The book outlines his life, from birth until his untimely death in 1987.

For more information about MHWLC, visit https://www.facebook.com/mayorharoldwashington/.

For more information about Harold Washington College, visit ccc.edu or call 773-COLLEGE.

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Basketball player wants youth to reach high levels of success

Continued from page 1

BY TIA CAROL JONES

Blakeney wants to help people reach their goals. He founded the organization in 2021 with the goal of sending high school seniors to college. The North Carolina native is aware that not many people where he is from have the funds to go to a four-year college or university. He wants young people to reach their highest levels of success.

Blakeney is a professional basketball player who has played around the world. Now he is playing as part of NBA Africa. It is his eighth year as a professional basketball player. He has been a lot of places and seen a lot of things. Seeing the world has opened his eyes to what he really wants to do and strive to be.

When You Can Foundation began, Blakeney never imagined it would go as far as it has. In the year since it was founded, it has been able to accomplish a great deal. Some of those things include hosting shoe and food drives, a basketball skills camp, back to school giveaways, as well as going in and speaking to students in schools. You Can Foundation has also participated in panels about mental health.

Blakeney believes it just goes up from here. His upbringing in North Carolina helped shape him into the man he is.

His mother instilled in him the importance of giving, helping and taking care of the people around him. He learned to be grateful for the things he had and the opportunities he was given. It is the approach he takes when it comes to the You Can Foundation.

Blakeney believes it is imperative to identify what is needed in the community. In order to do that, he and his team communicate with the community to find out what they want

and need. From there, they create strategies.

Blakeney and his co-founder Brandon Richardson are best friends. They have been best friends since high school.

That connection has always been organic. They can identify what is needed to help communities.

Whenever Blakeney walks into a room, he tries to be himself and makes himself relatable. It has enabled him and You Can Foundation to create new lanes.

“The new lane that we’re trying to build, or the new lanes we’re building right now, there’s a lot of underground work that people don’t see … When you put your head down and do the work and create the right connections and make everything so organic, then it makes everything fall into place,” he said.

Some of those new lanes and partnership Blakeney has built were because of his spirit and the energy those people felt from him. He also believes having the right morals, right ethics and right codes helped him. Those things didn’t come from basketball, the opportunities came from You Can Foundation. Those things have a greater influence for him. His goal is to reach millions of people.

Outside of the You Can Foundation Blakeney also owns the Legacy Cleaning Service and is starting a fashion line. His ultimate business is basketball. Blakeney knows he couldn’t do any of what he has accomplished without God. “With the world we are living in today, we need all the positivity, energy and work and help that we can get,” he said.

For more information about the You Can Foundation, visit www.youcanofficial.org.

STEM ECOSYSTEMS FOUNDER JAN MORRISON IS SPECIAL GUEST ON LET’S TALK STEM WITH DR. CALVIN MACKIE PODCAST NEW ORLEANS PRNewswire -- Jan Morrison, Founder and CEO of the Teaching Institute for Excellence in STEM, said on the new Let’s Talk STEM with Dr. Calvin Mackie podcast that she established STEM Learning Ecosystems after it was clear that educational programs teaching science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) needed to be more effective.

“It became evident really fast that programs were not being as effective as they could be,” Morrison told Dr. Mackie. “There wasn’t an infrastructure to grab it, to leverage it, to support it, to love it, to make sure that the children and the families and the communities were connected and to make sure business and industry were connected…for everybody to understand what it was going to take to create STEM jobs and opportunity.”

Morrison’s answer was STEM Learning Ecosystems.

It is a Global Community of Practice with extensive sharing of resources and expertise among leaders from education, business and industry, non-profits, philanthropy and others. The 94 communities selected from across the world compose a global partnership demonstrating that cross-sector collaborations can deliver rigorous, effective preK-16 instruction in STEM learning.

Her appearance on the Let’s Talk STEM with Dr. Calvin Mackie podcast marked a watershed moment: a conversation with two of the world’s leading advocates for STEM education. While Morrison is credited with building collaboration from various sectors into

enhanced STEM learning and opportunities, Dr. Mackie is acclaimed for taking STEM education directly into under-resourced communities by activating schools, churches and community centers and engaging parents, corporate volunteers and college students.

In one engaging exchange, Dr. Mackie said, “We’re having too many conversations about what kids are missing in school” and not enough discussion on what can be done to supplement their learning and fill the void.

“You’re a hundred percent, right,” Morrison responded. “And we forget that. We talk about school as an institution, a square room, where they walk into and they say ‘Hi’ to their teachers. That’s all fine. But your point is so well taken. What can we do? The great outdoors?

What does being out of doors in New Orleans allow for you? It’s an amazing opportunity for kids.”

The two STEM leaders discussed a variety of STEM topics.

In 2013, Dr. Calvin Mackie founded STEM NOLA, a New Orleans-based, non-profit committed to expanding STEM education, particularly in communities of color.

His goal is to make STEM education available in ALL communities. In July 2021, Dr. Mackie launched STEM Global Action, a campaign and network of affiliates that pursues STEM education for children, parents and communities. His initiatives have impacted more than 100,000 students, 20,000 families and 5,000 schools across the U.S., and in five countries.

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WEEKEND

Cubs Charities Black History Month Leaders

Coach Tristan Hannah began coaching with Cubs RBI in the winter of 2020. After graduatingfrom college Tristan says he knew coaching was going to be the right fit. “I played for Cubs RBIwhen I was in high school, and after doing my research on where the program currently was, IknewthatIwantedtobeapartofthisprogramagain.”Thisyear,astheassistantcoachforthe 15u baseball team, Tristan gets to share with his players the importance of Black HistoryMonth, saying this February is about highlighting and celebrating Black culture. “Our culture hasinfluencedmusic,fashion,andsportsallovertheglobe,andIthinkitdeservesmorerecognition for that. I am very proud to be Black and to represent my culture.”

Tristan iscurrently a graduate student aiming to have a career as a Mental Performance Consultant in thesportsfield.

Students Kyle Williams was nominated for the Cubs Scholars program in 2017. The East Garfield Parkresident says being a Cubs Scholar has had a tremendous impact on his life. “It developed meinto the student I am today and instilled in me the confidence to go out and achieve greatsuccess.” Black History Month is important to Kyle because it highlights the many achievementsof Black Americans that often get overlooked or forgotten.

“It’s a time when we get to celebratethe impact Black Americans have made in American history. As a Black man entering thejournalism profession, I understand how important representation is.” A senior journalism majorat Knox College, Kyle says Cubs Charities gave him the opportunity to find success in his chosencareer path. “From the time I wanted to enter the sports media industry, the staff at CubsCharities made every opportunity available for me to connect with professionals in my field,meetwiththeCubsProductionstaff,andgetexposure.”

Mariah Danielle Muskin started playing in Cubs RBI in 2020. Through Mariah’s high schoolcoach, she was introduced to Cubs RBI, playing pitcher and outfielder.

What stands out most toMariah about the program is its culture of inclusivity, which helps foster stronger bonds in theBlack community. For Black History Month, Mariah says the music, food, and beauty aspects ofthe Black community gives her a feeling of pride.

“Black History Month to me means bringinghonor, justice, and appreciation to everything and everyone that was oppressed in earlierhistory.” Besides participating with Cubs Charities, Mariah is currently in college, developing apresentationonMartinLutherKingJr.fortheschool’smediapage.

Joshua Purnell started with the Joshua Purnell Cubs RBI program from 2015-2019.

Joshua says at first it wasa bit challenging to find an elite baseball program where he felt truly comfortable and a part oftheteambutCubsRBIsteppedupinabigway.“Iwasabletoworkhardonthefield,developa strong camaraderie with my teammates, and eventually represent the Cubs

Charities RBI All-Star team as a captain and leader. This is a time to reflect on and honestly discuss America’shistory of oppression and racism, but then to celebrate and promote the strength of our peopleto endure, overcome, and realize end goals,” says Joshua. “My people and culture built anduplifted our country, even when our country didn’t value or accept us as human beings. AfricanAmericans have helped propel American society forward through medical, technological, andagricultural advancements.” Joshua is currently a junior studying civil engineering at LipscombUniversity.

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POLITICAL AFFAIRS

Jones calls for increased investment in safety net hospitals

Senate Deputy Majority Leader Emil Jones III (D-Chicago) issued the following statement in response to Gov. Pritzker’s proposed Fiscal Year 2023 budget: “While we have made progress toward tackling the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, more work must be done to provide protections for our frontline and healthcare workers. Furthermore, we must do more to support our safety net hospitals, which are the backbone for health care in marginalized communities.

“Safety nets make up 19.1% of our state’s hospitals and care for our state’s most vulnerable populations. We must ensure that they are funded properly, and equipped with adequate staffing and resources.

“I urge the governor to release the $30 million from the American Rescue Plan funding for safety net hospitals and hospital transformations.

The safety net grants must be restored back into the budget so that our most vulnerable communities are properly equipped to combat this pandemic and other health disparities.

“For years, many of our safety nets haven’t seen a dime of their much needed funding. Let’s deliver on the promises we already made before we commit to new ones.”

Harris: I support strengthening our mental health services

Coach Tristan Hannah

State Senator Napoleon Harris Budget Address Reaction State Senator Napoleon Harris (D-Harvey) released the following statement regarding a proposed budget that makes mental health and public safety a priority in Illinois: “As this pandemic continues to hinder us from returning back to our normal lives it is imperative that our budget provides resources and programs that invest in mental health. I strongly support a budget that will provide $63 million to strengthen behavioral health organizations, sustain the well-being of our frontline workers and invest in mental health programs.

“Also, as violence continues to persist in many of our communities in Chicago and the South Suburbs, we must highlight the importance of funding high-risk youth intervention programs, violence prevention organizations, the SAFE-T Act and any other services that will help protect our neighborhoods.”

State Rep. Evans Brings Clean Offshore Wind to Illinois, Long Term Clean Jobs to Chicago’s Black and Brown Communities*

Kyle Williams

Mariah Danielle Muskin

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Key first step for the Illinois Rust Belt to Green Belt Pilot Program Act* Legislation that would position Illinois to lead on offshore wind in the Great Lakes and create long term, good-paying jobs for Chicago’s black and brown communities made its way through committee today.

The Rust Belt to Green Belt Pilot Program Act (House Bill 4543), introduced by State Rep. Marcus C. Evans, Jr. (D-Chicago), passed the House Public Utilities Committee on Tuesday, February 1st, 2022. The bill would allow Illinois to pursue federal funding to build an offshore wind port on Chicago’s Southeast Side, ultimately righting the wrongs of generations of environmental racism.

“This bill sends the message nationally that Illinois is ready to lead the Great Lakes offshore wind development, while locally it has the potential to bring jobs and clean air to an area of our state that for generations has suffered from environmental racism,” State Rep. Marcus C. Evans, Jr. (D-Chicago) said. “This bill brings innovation to the state of Illinois and opportunity to our black and brown communities on Chicago’s South Side.”

The bill would create the Illinois Rust Belt to Green Belt Fund within the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO) to capture part of the $17.1 billion for ports made available through the federal Bipartisan Infrastructure package – specifically the 68% percent of $17.1 billion designated for new port construction. This fund would support port construction and infrastructure workforce development related to offshore wind, by providing grant funding and other financial assistance. It will potentially train and facilitate the employment of historically underrepresented communities.

Upwards of 1,000 skilled jobs that span construction, implementation, operations, and maintenance would be created by an offshore wind pilot project, in addition to the thousands of jobs that could be created for port construction.

Labor groups, environmental, and clean energy advocates, including Blacks in Green, People for Community Recovery, Sierra Club, the Chicago Federation of Labor, Chicago and Cook County Building Trades Council, IBEW 134, Chicago Laborers District Council, Teamsters Joint Council 25 and International Union of Operating Engineers Local 150 have signed on as proponents to the bill.

The bill now goes to the full Illinois House of Representatives for further consideration.

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Jim Henson’s Creture Shop Welcomes Dawn Turner HOLLYWOOD, Calif., PRNewswire -Jim Henson’s Creature Shop has hired industry vet Dawn Turner as Director of New Business Development.

Turner will identify and cultivate new global business opportunities for the iconic Jim Henson’s Creature Shop, focusing on promoting the services it can provide clients in film, television, advertising, live theatre and events, and AR and VR. Her efforts will especially focus on the Shop’s celebrated practical animatronic and puppet work along with expanding the scope of its work in performed animation utilizing the Henson Digital Puppetry Studio, an award-winning proprietary technology that allows puppeteers to perform CG characters in real time, allowing for greater spontaneity and realism.

“Jim Henson’s Creature Shop is known the world over for creating some of the best-known characters in entertainment. I want everyone in the industry to know the full scope of our capabilities, not only in the world of practical creature effects but also with digital puppetry and the exciting new opportunities it offers for all kinds of creative endeavors,” says Turner. “From delivering more improvised and lifelike character performances and effects in real-time, to shortening the post-production turnaround process and cutting post-production costs, the possibilities of the Henson Digital Puppetry Studio are endless and I intend to make sure the creative community has the opportunity to learn all about this amazing technology.”

Before joining Henson, Turner was a producer in business development at Technicolor Creative Services and served as a producer of VFX and animation on a number of creative projects. Some of her credits include Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker, Nim’s Island, Bruce Almighty, Scary Movie 4, The Boondocks, Star Wars: The Clone Wars, Shark Tale, Madagascar and many more. Turner also served

on the awards committee for the Visual Effects Society for several years and is a member of the Producer’s Guild of America, Women in Animation and Women in Film.

Jim Henson’s Creature Shop™ provides performed digital visual effects, animatronic creatures, animation and soft puppets to the international film, television, theater, live event and advertising industries. Recent credits include Fraggle Rock: Back to the Rock (Apple TV+), Duff’s Happy Fun Bake Time (discovery+), The Dark Crystal: Age of Resistance (Netflix), Word Party (Netflix), and Splash and Bubbles (PBS Kids). Based in Los Angeles and New York with satellite shop capabilities internationally, the Shop is known for designing and building some of the world’s best-known characters including the Sesame Street puppets, the classic Muppets, the dinosaurs from Dinosaurs, the aliens from Farscape and the fantastical creatures from The Dark Crystal and Labyrinth. Other feature film credits include The Happytime Murders, Where the Wild Things Are, Forgetting Sarah Marshall, Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy, and Five Children and It. The shop is also known for its live performance work with artists like Cee Lo Green, Kanye West, Lady Gaga and Deadmau5. A recipient of more than 9 Emmy Awards for its outstanding work building puppets for Sesame Street, the Shop also received an Academy Award for its visual effects work on the film Babe. Other awards include a Scientific and Engineering Academy Award for the Henson Performance Control System, a powerful custom-based interface for puppeteers, and an Emmy Award for its work in developing the Henson Digital Performance Studio, a patented control system technology that enables puppeteers to perform computer-generated characters in real time. www. creatureshop.com

New Partnership Launches to Support Financial Professionals of Color (Black PR Wire) PHILADELPHIA--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Lincoln Financial Network (LFN), the retail wealth management affiliate of Lincoln Financial Group (NYSE:LNC), today announced the partnership of its African American Financial Professionals Network (AAFPN) with Changing How Individuals Prosper (CHIP) Professionals. This unique partnership will provide access and opportunity to Black and Latinx financial professionals and consumers by using CHIP’s online platform to easily match consumers with financial professionals who can help support their financial goals.

CHIP is the first business-to-consumer FinTech financial services marketplace designed to connect finance professionals directly with consumers. Its mission is to ensure the visibility and sustainability of financial professionals of color, specifically Black and Latinx financial professionals, by matching them with consumers in need. CHIP ensures a “best fit” for both consumers and financial professionals with its digital-first approach. Consumers fill out a questionnaire that allows CHIP to understand where they are in their financial journey in order to identify the best resources and professionals to meet their needs.

“The partnership between the AAFPN and CHIP delivers on Lincoln’s ongoing commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion in our network of financial professionals and in the communities they support across the country,” said David Berkowitz, president of LFN. “We look forward to leveraging CHIPS’ innovative digital platform to support new business growth and development for our financial professionals and bring their skills and expertise in comprehensive financial planning to those who need it.”

“We’re thrilled to be partnering with Lincoln and the African

American Financial Professionals Network to bring even more talented financial professionals to the CHIP platform,” said Dana Wilson, CEO of CHIP. “The AAFPN-CHIP partnership is a powerful combination of experienced financial professionals who have a deep understanding of our clientele and their needs, coupled with CHIP’s leading technology platform. This will open doors for countless Americans to better their financial futures and aligns with our mission to spotlight financial professionals of color.”

“Many African Americans find themselves isolated or without the necessary resources to help them succeed financially,” said Kelby Edwards, chairman of the AAFPN. “We strongly believe that partnerships like the one between the AAFPN and CHIP will help foster greater interaction between Black financial professionals and consumers to help address the issues impacting our communities.”

Launched in 2021, the AAFPN is an initiative that spans all of LFN designed to better support the unique needs of African American financial professionals and clients. The Network’s core objectives center on inspiring African Americans to pursue opportunities in financial services to increase the overall number of Black financial professionals in the industry, supporting new and experienced LFN African American financial professionals in the growth and development of their practice through strategic partnerships and mentoring, and providing financial wellness education to Black communities to help with financial preparedness.

This partnership is a further commitment by Lincoln Financial Group to execute on its ongoing action plan to advance racial equity, and to driving meaningful, measurable change. ALearn more at: www.LincolnFinancial.com.

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Urban One, Inc. Announces the Promotion of Colby Tyner to SVP Programming SILVER SPRING, Md., PRNewswire -- David Kantor, CEO of Urban One’s Radio One and Reach Media Divisions, announced the promotion of Colby Tyner to Senior Vice President, Programming Radio One and Reach Media.

From his early days working as an intern and assistant program director in Philadelphia at WUSL and as a music director at Power 105 (WPPR) in New York City, to his second tour in Philadelphia, followed by his days in radio in Cleveland, Colby “Colb” Tyner is an industry veteran who has held various positions at Radio One over the last 20 years. In his previous role as Vice President of Programming at Radio One, Tyner increased ratings within several brands, procured major talent for NTR events and TV One programs, and launched nationally syndicated radio shows like The Morning Hustle and Get Up Mornings with Erica Campbell.

Additionally, Tyner has provided leadership for significant, myriad revenue-generating programming and promotional initiatives and has executive produced Reach Media’s podcast series, The Undressing Room, in partnership with Macy’s.

“I am pleased to formally announce the well-deserved promotion of Colby Tyner.” said David Kantor, CEO of Radio One and Reach Media. “Colby has been instrumental in the ratings success of both our Network and local programs. His leadership has led us to execute format leading quality content that entertains, educates and engages our listeners.”

Upon reflection of his tenure in radio and his most recent appointment to SVP Programming, Tyner stated, “It can be hard to find your way in the media industry. I’m very appreciative of Radio One, who gave me my first program director position, and I’m also thankful for the continued opportunity to grow in this business. I’d like to especially thank Ms. Hughes, Alfred Liggins, and David Kantor for their constant support and for allowing me to lead this amazing group of programmers and talent.”

Urban One, Inc. (urban1.com), together with its subsidiaries, is the largest diversified media company that primarily targets Black Americans and urban consumers in the United States. The Company owns TV One, LLC (tvone.tv), a television network serving more than 59 million households, offering a broad range of original programming, classic series and movies designed to entertain, inform and inspire a diverse audience of adult Black viewers.

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FASHION

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DOVE LAUNCHES ‘AS EARLY AS FIVE’ ENGLEWOOD CLIFFS, N.J. PRNewswire -Dove has released a NEW body of research, “Dove 2021 CROWN Research Study for Girls,” unveiling the alarming rate and young age at which Black girls experience hair discrimination in schools. As part of the brand’s ongoing commitment to ending race-based hair discrimination via The CROWN Act legislation (Creating a Respectful and Open World for Natural Hair), the study reveals that 53% of Black mothers, whose daughters have experienced hair discrimination, say their daughters experienced the discrimination as early as 5 years old, and approximately 86% of Black teens who experience discrimination have endured it by the age of 12.

Fueled by these research findings, Dove released a short film, As Early As Five, inspired by the far too many real stories of those who have experienced hair discrimination and bias in both schools and the workplace. As Early As PRNEWSFOTO/DOVE Five depicts three scenarios of race-based hair discrimination they have experienced discrimination based on their hair by experienced by a girl – starting in elementary school, in high the age of 12. school and into adulthood – all inspired by real life events.

100% of Black elementary school girls in majority-white Through this campaign, Dove continues its mission to schools who report experiencing hair bias and discrimination raise awareness for CROWN Act legislation and spark urgen- state they experienced the discrimination by the age of 10. cy among parents, school administrators and advocates to sign Exposure to hair discrimination has a negative impact The CROWN Act petition at Dove.com/CROWN to make on Black girls’ self-esteem. race-based hair discrimination illegal nationwide.

While 90% of Black girls believe their hair is beautiDove believes Black women and girls should have the ful, the microaggressions and discrimination she endures freedom to wear their hair how they choose without the fear has an impact on how she sees herself. of job loss or education. As CROWN Coalition co-founders 81% of Black girls in majority-white schools say committed to ending race-based hair discrimination nathey sometimes wish their hair were straight. tionwide, Dove continues to advocate for local and federal Hair discrimination also has a generational impact. governments to pass The CROWN Act to help protect the As previously revealed in the Dove CROWN Reestimated 2.3 million Black children nationwide who are most search Study (2019), Black women were 1.5 times more vulnerable to race-based hair discrimination.1 Currently, The likely to have reported having been sent home or know of CROWN Act is law in 14 states (CA, CT, CO, DE, IL, MD, a Black women sent home from the workplace because of NE, NM, OR, NY, NJ, NV, VA, WA) and 34 municipalities. her hair.

Key findings from the Dove 2021 CROWN Research The 2021 Dove CROWN Research for Girls reveals Study for Girls: that 47% of Black mothers report having experienced Hair discrimination is happening early and continues as discrimination related to their hair. she gets older.

Among them, 81% remember the experience happen53% of Black mothers, whose daughters have experiing by the time they were 12 years old. enced hair discrimination, say their daughters experienced the Hair bias and discrimination is prevalent in predomidiscrimination as early as 5 years old. nately white schools where Black girls are most vulnera86% of Black teens who experience discrimination state ble to racial bias and discrimination.

Ecommerce children’s clothing line introduces its Black History Month collection BY: ELORA FINDS

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. PRLog -- Elora Finds, a brand known for its one-of-a-kind, brilliant, colorful, handcrafted African fabric and styles for children, is thrilled to announce the launch of its Black History Month collection. “Kindness, Humility, Bravery, Joy.” The Elora Finds motto is a thread that weaves through each piece of clothing in the line. The brand, which represents ideals such as inclusion, creativity, and education, is excited to commemorate Black History Month with its designs.

The Elora Finds online shop is now highlighting a selection of Black History Month-themed merchandise. Shoppers will find trendy clothing items such as hoodies, sweatshirts, and t-shirts honoring significant Black Americans such as Rosa Parks, Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., Amanda C. Gorman, and Maya ELORA FINDS

Angelou. Another fashionable choice is the We Are Made by History design, as well as the You Must Never Be Fearful design. Each of these conveys an appealing image and a positive message. Visitors to the site will also like the graphic t-shirts. Each one is brightly colored and features an uplifting message in keeping with the Black History Month theme.

Elora Finds’ designers love producing entertaining clothing in comfy shapes for youngsters. The team understands the needs of the average child, and this understanding acts as their inspiration. As the crew at Elora Finds puts it, “When designing each piece of clothing or accessories, we lead with our hearts, act seriously funny, mix in nostalgia for the magic that is childhood, and care for the world and everything that is part of it.”

Elora Finds says, “together with you, we continue to celebrate kids, and all of the little everyday experiences of play, fun, discovery, and joy!”

66% of Black girls in majority-white schools report experiencing discrimination.

45% of Black girls in all school environments report experiencing hair bias and discrimination.

Trauma from these experiences cause girls to miss days from school.

Teenage Black girls are missing a week of school due to hair dissatisfaction.

“Our groundbreaking 2019 CROWN research study revealed that Black women are 80% more likely to change their hair from its natural state to fit in at the office. Now, this new body of research illuminates the pervasive nature and deep impact hair discrimination has on Black girls highlighting the horrific multi-generational impact of narrow beauty standards in America.

These biases continue to perpetuate unfair scrutiny and discrimination against Black women and girls for wearing hairstyles inherent to our culture. This is unacceptable and why it is imperative that everyone join the movement to make hair discrimination illegal nationwide through the passage of The CROWN Act,” says EVP & COO of Unilever North America, Esi Eggleston Bracey.

Join Dove in the movement to make race-based hair discrimination illegal and ensure a positive change for the next generation by signing The CROWN Act petition at Dove.com/CROWN. Research Methodology The 2021 Dove CROWN Research Study for Girls was conducted by JOY Collective, a Black and women-owned firm, in July-August 2021 to assess the impact of hair discrimination before adulthood and the effect on the self-esteem in young Black girls.

An online survey was completed in the US by 1000 girls (500 Black and 500 white) age 5-18. The group included a natural mix of Black girls who attend predominantly Black schools, diverse schools and predominantly white school environments. The survey included questions about personality descriptors, presence of bias in school, school hair policy, impact of hair bias and recreation of the 1954 Doll Test. All data tested at 95% confidence level.

DARK & LOVELY BRINGS BRIGHT, BOLD & BLONDE HOME WITH NEW UPLIFT BLEACH KIT NEW YORK PRNewswire -- Dark & Lovely, the number one hair coloring brand for women of color, is excited to launch its latest innovation - the Uplift Bleach Kit. Created for those looking to achieve the brightest and boldest shades of blonde, the new bleach kit dares beauty lovers to turn up the volume with a next generation formula that brings all the drama, without the damage.

Now entering its 50th year, Dark & Lovely has been the go-to brand for Black women looking to achieve head-turning styles, while protecting the integrity of their hair. The brand continues to stay relevant with new innovations like the Uplift Bleach Kit, which appeals to consumers of all agers, including Gen Z and Millennials who are looking to express themselves through their style. Keeping in step with this, the new Uplift Bleach Kit features a patented, two-part system that is not only easy to use, but delivers up to 8 levels of dramatic lift - from Black to honey blonde to platinum. “As a newly converted blonde, I am thrilled for the launch of Dark & Lovely’s new Bleach Kit,” said actress, producer and Dark

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& Lovely Brand Ambassador, Storm Reid.

“This has already become an absolute must-have in my beauty arsenal. What I really love is that I can actually use it to keep my hair looking amazing from home.”

“When opting to go blonde, it’s important to use products that not only help you to achieve your desired hue, but nourish the hair while respecting its natural curl pattern,” said celebrity hairstylist Kendall Dorsey, who styles Kelly Rowland, Saweetie and Alicia Keys.

“The Dark & Lovely Uplift Bleach Kit does just that, making it the perfect athome staple for blonde bombshells.”

The Dark & Lovely Uplift Bleach Kit is available for $8.49 at Walmart stores nationwide and Walmart.com. For more information about Dark & Lovely and the Uplift Bleach Kit, please visit DarkAndLovely.com or follow us on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter and YouTube.

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B L AC K H I S T O R Y F O C U S

Holding on to Their Faith

Strengthening Black Families Living with Dementia specializes in gerontology, the study of aging. “I had to do something,” says Epps, who, at the time, was like the rest of her family and community “who were raised When Fayron Epps was growing up in New and taught that Alzheimer’s,” the common form Orleans, Louisiana, worship services weren’t of dementia, was a disease that only white people limited to Sundays. I attended church every day developed. Armed with the science and data, Epps, of the week, with my grandmother. That’s just says she was determined to first educate herself and how it was.” Inside those familiar four walls is then help her family and those in her community in where Epps recognized the power of the Black New Orleans to understand the truth about dementia’s church. disparate toll on African American families.

For the community, it was a trusted source of Although African Americans represent more than 20 information, she says. To the faithful, it was a percent of the 5.8 million Americans who have the haven and in hard times, a resource members With her Faith Village disease, the statistics alone have not been enough to relied on for spiritual, emotional, social, and Research Lab, Fayron Epps, stoke widespread awareness author Marita Golden material support. And for the sick, it was the place Ph. D, an Emory University observed in her 2017 Washington Post magazine they sought for healing. Today, as an award-win- nurse-scientist, is conducting story about African Americans and Alzheimer’s. In ning nurse-scientist at Emory University’s Nell faith-based research and the piece, she notes, “Rarely were people aware of Hodgson Woodruff School of Nursing in Atlanta, creating dementia-friendly the stunning prognosis for African Americans. And Georgia, Epps is tapping into one of the African congregations in the in the how could they be? No major public health campaign American community’s cornerstones — the African American community. has rallied interest and action.” church to help improve the quality of life of Black PHOTO COURTESY: FAYRON EPPS, PH.D. The presence of stigma and shame also pose families impacted by dementia. challenges to increasing awareness and action, adds Disrupted by the Data Epps.

She was a doctoral student conducting a Thinking back, around her family’s kitchen review of the literature on dementia when she first realized that table, there were conversations about what ailed Black bodies: older African Americans are twice as likely as non-Hispanic whites things like “hypertension, diabetes, cancer, and even HIV/AIDS, to develop Alzheimer’s, a type of brain disease and a common form but the topic of dementia went unspoken,” remembers Epps. Then, of dementia. like now, she adds, stigma and shame—experienced by those with “I was shocked. I just couldn’t believe it,” recalls Epps who dementia and their families—is responsible for much of the silence

BY B. DENISE HAWKINS

that Golden referenced.

“We [African Americans] are such a hush-hush community,” says Epps, who since 2017, has focused on breaking that silence.

She is conducting faith-based research, education, and spreading dementia and brain health awareness in the African American community. Together with a team of staff and students, those efforts are housed under the umbrella Faith Village Research Lab, “because it takes a village.”

Faith in the Village As a young girl, she says, “I saw a village model of care and support” in action. Across generations, households, and distances, “There were people caring for each other.” Many of them were like her aunt who counted it a “joy,” not a “burden” to rise before the sun and travel far to bathe and care for her infirmed grandmother. “I did the same when I took care of my paternal grandmother,” remembers Epps. “It was no problem. It was a joy.”

Caregivers, those living with dementia, educators, and faith and community leaders are among those who make up Epps’ advisory board—and village that keeps her informed “about what those in the community need” on their journey with dementia.

Today, she’s working on a few faith-based research projects that are funded by NIH, the Alzheimer’s Association, and other federal and private funders. They keep the nurse educator in the community and connected to Black families, who like her, have familiar and deep roots in the Black church. Central to that work are ways that African Americans living with dementia and their caregivers can draw on their own faith practices, spirituality, and religious beliefs to cope with an incurable disease that impacts them twice as much as other groups.

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“I want to show how important religion and faith-based traditions are in the lives of Black families living with dementia,” says Epps of her research and work she calls “her ministry.” The literature,” she says, “supports the significance of religiosity as a protective factor to promote well-being for Black families facing dementia.”

But lesser known, she says, is research on “the worship experiences” of those Black families; something that she intends to expand.

It matters Epps says, when a person’s identity is linked to their religion or place of worship. Over time dementia, robs a person living with the disease of not only their memory but also their identity.

That’s why “having a faith tradition and belonging to a faith community” can be restorative and serve as an anchor for people with dementia, explains Epps who is designing and testing the impact of in-person and online dementia-friendly worship services.

Before the COVID-19 outbreak shuttered many churches, Epps often accompanied the families and caregivers in her research study to Sunday morning church services at dementia-friendly churches.

Like most researchers who worked in the field, she was soon forced to pivot when the pandemic started. Working with faith leaders, Epps and her team developed pilot online worship services for those unable to physically attend church. Church attendance often slumps and so does participation in church activities after a person receives a dementia diagnosis and as their disease progress. Epps wanted a way to “offer a meaningful religious activity,” and to keep those living with dementia connected to a faith community, even if it was online.

Each of the online services is about 10 minutes long, have a central theme, offer live music and old, familiar hymns, a sermon, and on selected Sundays, communion may be celebrated—all features that have made worship convenient and enjoyable for 56-yearold Kim Reid who was diagnosed with early-onset Alzheimer’s at age 50. She and Robert Reid, her husband and care partner, enrolled in the study around the time their Georgia church ceased operating because of the pandemic and organizational changes.

“Church used to keep us busy from sunup to sundown,” says Robert Reid who served as a deacon and was active in other ministries. Since the church closure and his wife’s diagnosis, that pace has dwindled to home Bible Study on Wednesday evenings and Sunday online worship. And while they the miss the fellowship of in-person services, Robert Reid said they are drawing on what Epps called their “religiosity” to cope.

Kim and Robert Reid, watched 10-minute, online church service tailored for people living with dementia and their caregivers.

It’s been a way to keep families like them connected to a faith community. PHOTO COURTESY: ROBERT REID Says Robert Reid: “The beautiful thing about the Word is that it is in us. We are able to pull on it for stability and comfort during everything thing we are going through.”

Epps’s Faith Village team went in search of Black churches and faith leaders who could collaborate on creating “culturally relevant programs to support African Americans living with dementia and their caregivers. They sought “trailblazers and churches that were ready to break the silence and commit to creating dementia-friendly and inclusive environments.”

It proved to be a tall order. “What I found working in the Black community were faith leaders who were unable to respond to the needs of families” living with dementia and those caring for them because they didn’t know how and didn’t understand the disease, says Epps. In a quick primer with those pastors, she says she describes dementia as “a big umbrella term for over 70 types of dementia, with vascular dementia being the one that African Americans develop the most.” Vascular dementia is the second most common type of dementia after Alzheimer’s. It’s caused by obstructions in blood flow to the brain.

But what may be the most impactful point in the conversation is when Epps reminds those faith leaders that those living with dementia and the people caring for them, are among the members sitting in

Honoring leaders giving back to their communities During Black History Month, AARP recognizes leaders taking action to give back and help build up their communities.

Hope Harley, Cofounder and President of the Board of Directors at the Bronx Children’s Museum, educates children in the area on the borough’s notable places, cultures, and history through dance, art, literature and science.

AARP believes the efforts of one person can truly make an impact. But when our efforts drive change for the greater good, we thrive together.

their pews.

So, instead of a conversation here and a church lecture there, Epps created the Alter program. Its purpose is to educate and prepare Black faith communities that want to create welcoming and supportive places of worship for “anyone, regardless of their cognitive abilities,” according to a description on the program’s website. While the concept and practice of dementia-friendly places of worship is not new in the United States, Alter, “a nurse-led dementia collaborative,” is considered “the only program of its kind that engages African American congregations in supporting family caregivers and people living with dementia.”

Among Black families, the need for such a program was great, says Epps. “While conducting research with Black families living with dementia, I heard their stories. They felt the church, the one place they thought they could always count on, abandoned them.

That’s when I said, let me talk to pastors to see what’s going on.”

One of the first she approached about her then idea, was her own pastor, Bishop Glenn B. Allen, who pastors Destiny Christian Center International in Fayetteville, Georgia. As he listened closely to Epps describe her long nursing practice that included caring for patients living with dementia and her research work on dementia at Emory, Bishop Allen says he realized that she was providing a snapshot of an uncle he knew as a child.

“We just thought he was crazy, back then, but I know now that he was going through dementia. We didn’t have a name for it or education about how to care for him,” recalls Bishop Allen. “If we did, maybe things would have been a lot different.” He and his church leaders are completing the two-year Alter program that launched in July 2019, in partnership with Georgia State University. Bishop Allen also is the pastor who leads the Faith Village online worship services.

Promoting dementia awareness and brain health among African Americans is work that Epps often calls “her purpose.” Looking forward, she says, “It is my hope and prayer that Black families will speak up and feel more comfortable seeking support from the church and vice versa—the church will feel more equipped and comfortable supporting families living with dementia.”

This is the first in an occasional series of stories by B. Denise Hawkins on aging and African Americans living with dementia. This article was written with the support of a journalism fellowship from The Gerontological Society of America, The Journalists Network on Generations and the John A. Hartford Foundation.

Hope Harley,

President of the Board Bronx Children’s Museum Bronx, NY To learn more about this community leader and their journey, visit aarp.org/blackcommunity

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Vision Films Highlights Slate of New Releases Honoring Black History Month LOS ANGELES PRNewswire -- Vision Films’ extensive slate offers a variety of feature length films, across multiple genres, highlighted for Black History Month. All films are available on VOD and on DVD in the US, Canada, and many international territories. Of particular interest for February 2022, Vision Films’ collection includes timeless documentaries, romantic comedies, historical fiction, faith, and family-friendly fare that address cultural perspectives whether through truth-telling, comedy, or fantasy.

“Vision Films is always looking to share the most diverse slate of films possible,” says CEO and Managing Director Lise Romanoff. “Year round we focus on expanding our library of exceptional films but at certain junctures as this, it is important to remind audiences everywhere about the relevant and important content we offer through our streaming and cable partners in the US, Canada and worldwide.”

Other exceptional films with poignant narratives include: Once Upon A Lifetime - (2022) Faith, family, and a special kind of magic come together in this Benjamin Button-type fable that teaches love, forgiveness, and healing.

Flint Tale – (2021) a fictional drama of one family’s struggle in the aftermath of the Flint, MI water crisis that still has lasting repercussions.

The American King – (2022) a raucous and poignant comedy that addresses multicultural, political, societal, and global issues, starring the performer Akon.

The Black Emperor of Broadway – (2020) based on the life of Charles S. Gilpin, the first Black lead actor on the stage, and in a play written by Eugene O’Neill.

All Between Us – (2018) Tiffany Haddish stars in a hilarious relationship comedy.

The American King Movie starring Akon. PRNewsFoto Hidden Orchard Mysteries: The Documentaries: Case of the Air B&B Robbery – African American physicians and nurses in Ali’s Comeback: The Untold Story (2020) two young girlfriends become the US. – (2020) the epic tale about the return of the amateur detectives in this family friendly Barack Obama: Finding Hope – greatest athlete of the 20th Century from the film.

(2021) includes some of the first known shadows of the boxing ring back onto the Grandma’s House – (2016) Loretta interviews with the 44th President of the U.S. Devine stars in this touching family film that world stage, all amidst the intense racial and giving insight into his early determination political tensions boiling up in 1970 and the truly highlights the importance and power of diverse team that worked tirelessly to help and drive. love and family. regain his championship title.

Lady You Shot Me: Life And Death Vision Films is a leading independent Out of Darkness – (2022) a distinctive Of Sam Cooke – (2021) an exploration into sales and VOD aggregator specializing in the three-part documentary looking at the untold the mysterious death of the influential star at licensing, marketing, and distribution of over history of African people, especially from the the height of his career.

800 feature films, documentaries, and series North, and their significant cultural contribuYou Belong To Me: Sex, Race And from some of the most prolific independent tions to world civilization.

Murder In The South – (2014) Inside the film producers in the world. Led by Lise RoColor of Medicine: The Story of Holandmark 1952 murder trial of white physimanoff, Managing Director/CEO Worldwide mer G. Phillips Hospital - (2019) Distribution, Vision Films releases 2-4 films cian, Dr. C. Leroy Adams, by the wealthy, From 1937-1979 this hospital provided a month across Theatrical, VOD, DVD, and married and Black, Ruby McCollum, which training and a home to over two-thirds of the television platforms.www.visionfilms.net changed the face of civil rights in America.

VINA LOVE FEATURED ON “UPTOWN” COLLABORATION WITH HIP-HOP ICON DJ KID CAPRI NEW YORK PRNewswire – Singer and songwriter Vina Love started the new year with the release of “Uptown” a new single with her father, the world famous DJ/rapper Kid Capri.

Vina Love has been making an impressive name for herself as a talented singer and music entrepreneur.

In fact, she has amazingly become one of the youngest Black women to own a music label, Amore Love Records, distributed by EMPIRE. In 2017, Vina Love released her first single “Air” with popular track “Drip” following two years later; concluding with “Owe Me.” In 2021, she dropped “N.F.S,” a powerful and upbeat single with an accompanying video.

She’s already performed at some of New York’s top musical venues, such as the Copacabana, SOB’s, BB Kings and the Fox Theater. Over time, Love has toured with a variety of artists, including Fat Joe, Megan Thee Stallion, Ashanti, JaRule, RBRM and The Lox. “Uptown” is her first collaboration with Kid Capri. Both Kid Capri and Vina Love enjoyed the experience of working together on a passion they have dedicated their lives to.

Later this year, Vina Love plans to release an original EP featuring cuts created by various prominent producers including Dizzy Banko as well as recording artists Snoop Dogg and Capella Grey.

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‘FIRSTHAND: SEGREGATION’ Launches Feb. 22 Chicago is one of the most segregated big cities in America, and it comes at a cost. The Metropolitan Planning Council found that segregation costs the region $4.4 billion in lost income, 83,000 fewer bachelor’s degrees, and about 200 lives cut short by homicides every year. Throughout 2022, WTTW’s FIRSTHAND: SEGREGATION initiative will put a human face on the impact racial divisions have on individuals, the city, and our region. Watch the trailer.

FIRSTHAND: SEGREGATION is part of the award-winning FIRSTHAND multiplatform, multi-year initiative focusing on the firsthand perspectives of people facing critical issues in Chicago.

Visit the website (wttw.com/firsthand) on Tuesday, Feb. 22, to explore the elements of the project, which include: · A documentary series following fifteen Chicagoans affected by segregation. · Six expert talks by community and thought leaders offering insights, historical context, and possible solutions. · Text and visual journalism exploring housing, education, policing, and the history of segregation in Chicago. · Community conversations with thought leaders and project participants extending the reach of the project into Chicago neighborhoods. · Companion discussion guide for schools, libraries, and other community organizations. · WTTW News/Chicago Tonight special news coverage.

“As a public media organization, it’s our responsibility to respond to the issues that matter most to the people and communities in our city and region with trusted, essential content,” said Sandra Cordova Micek, President and CEO of WTTW. “Through personal stories and experiences, FIRSTHAND: SEGREGATION will provide an up-close view of an issue in our society and culture that has plagued Chicago for decades.”

“Segregation insinuates itself into just about every aspect of our lives in Chicago, including our housing, education, healthcare, and economy,” said executive producer Dan Protess. “This project unpacks how these divisions are taking a toll on Chicago through the firsthand perspectives of its residents, and by spotlighting the many ways in which Chicagoans are seeking to disrupt segregation.”

WTTW News Special: At 7:00 pm on the night of the project launch, February 22, WTTW’s flagship news program Chicago Tonight will present a WTTW News special episode dedicated to the topic of segregation in Chicago.

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Modern, Interoperable Data Systems Needed to Address Health Threats ATLANTA PRNewswire -- The COVID-19 pandemic has placed a bright spotlight on the nation’s public health infrastructure and underscored the need for investment in and development of comprehensive, flexible and interoperable data systems to track and address both chronic health challenges as well as future infectious disease outbreaks. Last week, organizations and individuals representing a variety of sectors gathered for the second summit in the Lights, Camera, Action: The Future of Public Health summit series to discuss the critical topic of data modernization and its link to better health outcomes for all.

“Our ultimate goal is to move from siloed and brittle public health data systems to connected, resilient, adaptable and sustainable ‘response-ready’ systems,” said Daniel B. Jernigan, MD, MPH, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s (CDC) deputy director for Public Health Science and Surveillance. “Having these systems in place can help us solve problems before they happen and reduce the harm caused by the problems that do happen, whether it’s addressing longstanding issues like health equity or preparing our nation for the next infectious or non-infectious threat.”

Jernigan noted that progress is being made in the public health community in this regard compared to before the COVID-19 pandemic, with now more than 10,300 healthcare facilities using electronic case reporting versus 187 previously. In addition, he said that data pipelines have advanced to inform action on the part of public health professionals with more than 530 million doses of COVID-19 vaccines being tracked in just over a year and clinical and environmental labs now sharing more than 1.5 million results per day with CDC. But much work remains, ranging from improvements needed in how the public, public health, healthcare and other sectors use new technologies to creating standards and future-forward data systems that enable real-time and actionable intelligence in service to the public’s health.

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Red Line Extension (RLE) Project Supplemental Environmental Assessment (EA) and Section 4(f) Evaluation Public Hearing The Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) is hosting a virtual and in-person public hearing to solicit public comments on the Supplemental Environmental Assessment (EA) and Section 4(f) Evaluation. The Supplemental EA discloses design refinements to the project’s Preferred Alignment and evaluates three project changes that have occurred since the publication of the Draft Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) in 2016. The project changes are 1) 130th Street station relocation, 2) 120th Street yard and shop refinement, and 3) 107th Place cross-over.

Virtual Public Hearing via Zoom Tuesday, February 15, 2022 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM In-Person Public Hearing Thursday, February 17, 2022 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM

The Salvation Army Kroc Center, 1250 W. 119th Street, Chicago, IL 60643 CTA has established a 30-day comment period for the Supplemental EA and Section 4(f) Evaluation from January 31, 2022 through March 1, 2022.

Comments may be made verbally to a court reporter at the virtual and in-person hearings. Written comments will be accepted during the in-person public hearing, and will be accepted at any time during the public comment period via the project website: transitchicago.com/RLE/SEA; project e-mail to: RedExtension@transitchicago.com; and by U.S. mail to: Chicago Transit Authority, Strategic Planning & Policy, 10th Floor, Attn: Red Line Extension Project, 567 W. Lake Street, Chicago, IL 60661-1465. **Face mask and proof of COVID-19 full vaccination is required to attend the in-person public hearing**

To attend either public hearing, pre-registration is encouraged at transitchicago.com/RLE/SEA

For more information visit transitchicago.com/RLE/SEA

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AN INVITING REFUGE

How color can make your house a haven (Family Features) If ever there was a need to create a tranquil escape from the chaos of the world, the time is now. Converting your living space into a soul-soothing refuge may be easier than you think as a serene color palette is often all you need to shift the mood of your home.

For many people, the home is a personal sanctuary, and through thoughtful color design, you can discover a renewed sense of balance and ease each time you walk through your front door. Incorporating colors inspired by simplicity and serenity can create spaces that transform the home into a soothing and comfortable space.

A restorative style starts with soft and natural colors; simplicity, approachability and comfort are also essential. Softened tones keep things easy and uncomplicated for spaces that feel balanced and meaningful.

To start creating a peaceful refuge within your home, consider these tips from the experts at HGTV Home by Sherwin-Williams to discover how to use color to paint a sense of calm for all who enter.

Peace on the Porch Fuss-free styling on the front porch sets a tone for the ambiance inside. Make sure all who enter know this is a place of calm and comfort by using soft, subtle colors. A fresh coat of exterior paint – or a new shade on the

front door – can help freshen and brighten the space while purposeful, understated furnishings and accessories lend themselves to a graceful welcome.

Balanced Bedroom There’s no space quite like the bedroom to command a peaceful presence. A curated palette like the HGTV Home by Sherwin-Williams 2022 Color Collection of the Year offers multiple options that exude peacefulness and facilitate tranquility. The Softened Refuge Collection, available exclusively at Lowe’s, is composed of 10 soft and simple tones that can be mixed and matched in any combination for a perfectly cohesive look.

One highlight is the 2022 Color of the Year, Aleutian, a washed indigo that is grounded by the warmth of its red undertones and bridges the gap between warm and cool tones. It pairs beautifully with wood tones so you can easily incorporate practical furnishings that lend to an aura of relaxation and comfort.

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TECHNOLOGY Tips to Give Your Child Connected Tech Devices Safely

PHOTO SOURCE: (c) YakobchukOlena / iStock via Getty Images Plus (StatePoint) Are you wondering if it’s time to give your child a smartphone? While age may seem important, maturity levels play a big role in letting you know if your child is ready to handle the responsibility of owning a connected device. It’s always important to weigh the pros and cons.

The benefits of a smartphone and internet access are that they offer a wealth of educational opportunities for students.

Children are early adopters of the latest technology and in many cases, can absorb and digest information easier and much faster than adults.

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The good news is that there are many

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safety and monitoring apps and tools available, some at low or no cost to you.

For example, T-Mobile offers Family Mode, an app that allows the primary account holder to monitor a child’s internet access when the app is downloaded on the device. T-Mobile also offers Family Allowances, an app that for a small monthly fee, allows you to assign allowances for the number of minutes, texts, downloaded content and money spent on downloadable apps. It also allows you to block your child’s use of their devices during certain times of the day, such as school, during homework, dinner time or at night.

Google Family Link is another option that is free of cost and provides you with the ability to monitor your child’s web activity, limit daily phone access, and approve or decline downloadable app purchases.

You can also check with your internet provider or wireless smartphone provider to see what child safety features are available with your current plan.

If your child isn’t quite ready for a phone, but you still want to have the ability to monitor and communicate with them, a connected smartwatch may be the next best option. T-Mobile recently launched SyncUP KIDS Watch, which features realtime location tracking, talk and text with approved contacts only, virtual boundary alerts, silent mode to use during school, and a help button that alerts pre-set emergency contacts when pushed. It has safety feature that parents want, but is also fun for kids, with a camera to snap and record moments, plus interactive games. To learn more, visit t-mobile.com.

Having safety tools and features available at the swipe of your fingertips will put your mind at ease and help create healthy habits when your child navigates the digital world, with or without you around.

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