Citizen Suburban Times Weekly 1-25-2023

New state laws taking effect Jan. 1

Pritzker signs reproductive rights expansion

Minimum wage hike, pets in public housing among new changes

Continued from page 1

Continued from page 1

BY PETER HANCOCK Capitol News Illinois phancock@capitolnewsillinois.com

SPRINGFIELD – Minimum wage workers in Illinois will see a boost in their hourly pay to $12 per hour starting Jan. 1, while tenants in affordable housing units will be allowed to keep pets.

Those are just some of the more than 300 new laws that take effect in the new year.

Bill expands access to abortion, genderaffirming treatments

The minimum wage increase is actually the result of a 2019 law that phases in a state minimum wage to $15 an hour by 2025. This year, it will increase by one dollar to $12 an hour.

The law allowing public housing

tenants to keep pets is the result of Senate Bill 154, by Sen. Linda Holmes, D-Aurora, and Rep. Stephanie Kifowit, D-Oswego. It provides that tenants of multifamily housing units that are acquired, built or renovated with money from the Illinois Affordable Housing Trust Fund may keep up to two cats or one dog weighing less than 50 pounds.

By PETER HANCOCK Capitol News Illinois phancock@capitolnewsillinois.com

SPRINGFIELD – Gov. JB Pritzker signed a bill into law Friday expanding access to abortion and other reproductive health care services.

House Bill 4664, passed Tuesday during the General Assembly’s “lame duck” session, came in response to the U.S. Supreme Court’s decision in June overturning the 1973 Roe v. Wade decision and declaring that the federal constitution does not protect a woman’s right to abortion.

It applies to residents of housing units that are designated as affordable housing for low- and very-lowincome families. The bill passed both chambers in its final form on May 30 and Gov. JB Pritzker signed it into law Aug. 6.

That decision triggered the reinstatement of long-dormant laws in other states that either banned or imposed severe restrictions on the procedure and prompted other states to impose new restrictions, resulting in a wave of patients from those states seeking services in Illinois, where abortion remains legally protected.

Other new laws include:

Vehicle taxes: SB58 raises the private vehicle tax, which is a sales tax paid on the purchase of vehicles, by $75 for each model year where the purchase price is less than $15,000 and by $100 for vehicles priced above that amount. However, the registration fee for trailers weighing less than 3,000 pounds will drop to $36 instead of $118.

“The U.S. Supreme Court has forced women, especially those most marginalized, to flee their home states in search of safe health care,” Pritzker said at a bill signing ceremony in Chicago. “Here in Illinois, we know we have an obligation to support and protect reproductive freedom for our residents, and those who seek safe haven. And we must protect our doctors and nurses to the right to reproductive health care that has been the law of the land in Illinois and across the nation, really, for 50 years.”

The bill aims to address the increased demand for abortion services in Illinois by expanding the list of providers qualified to perform the procedure to include advanced practice registered nurses

and physician assistants when general anesthesia is not required. It also provides an expedited process for health care providers licensed in other states to obtain temporary licenses to practice in Illinois.

The bill also provides legal protections to health care providers who are sanctioned in other states if those sanctions are based solely on the fact that they performed a medical procedure that is legal in Illinois. That includes abortion services as well as “gender-affirming” treatments for transgender individuals.

It also guaranties that abortion medications, HIV prevention drugs known as PEP and PrEP, and gender-affirming care will be covered by state-regulated insurance plans at no extra cost to consumers and requires local government employers to offer insurance plans that provide coverage for these treatments, as well as for birth control.

“Last year when the Supreme Court took away our freedoms, when they overturned Roe, Illinois immediately felt the impact as state after state moved to ban or severely restrict abortion access,” Jennifer Welch, president and CEO of Planned Parenthood Illinois, said during the event. “Sometimes it looks like a race to the bottom in our neighbor states. And those same states are hostile to the LGBT community, restricting access to gender-affirming health care, equality, marriage equality and many other rights.”

The new law takes effect immediately upon the governor’s signature.

Capitol News Illinois is a nonprofit, nonpartisan news service covering state government. It is distributed to more than 400 newspapers statewide, as well as hundreds of radio and TV stations. It is funded primarily by the Illinois Press Foundation and the Robert R. McCormick Foundation.

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College admissions: HB226, establishing the Higher Education Fair Admissions Act, prohibits public colleges and universities from requiring applicants to submit SAT, ACT or other standardized test scores as part of the admissions process, although prospective students may choose to submit them if they wish.

SOUTH SUBURBAN COLLEGE BOARD OF TRUSTEES

CELEBRATES MEN’S BASEBALL TEAM REGIONAL TITLE

sports teams, such as the Women’s Soccer Team and the Men’s Basketball Team, in successful runs.

CST Weekly, published weekly on Wednesdays and distributed in the Township of Bloom, (publishing 52 issues annually). W ritten permission is required to reproduce contents in whole or part from the General manager or the publisher CST Weekly does not assume the responsibility for nor are we able to return unsolicited marterials. Deadline for advertising is every Monday at noon. For information on subscriptions or advertising call us at (773) 783-1251. Our office is located at 8741 S. Greenwood Ave., Ste# 107, Chicago, Illinois 60619.

CST Weekly,published weekly on Wednesdays and distributed in the Township of Bloom, (publishing 52 issuesannually). W ritten permission isrequired to reproduce contents inwholeor part from the Generalmanager or the publisher CST Weekly does not assume the responsibilityfor nor are weable to return unsolicited marterials. Deadline for advertising is everyMonday at noon. For information on subscriptions oradvertising call us at (773)783-1251. Our office is locatedat 8741S. Greenwood Ave., Ste# 107, Chicago, Illinois 60619.

CST Weekly,published weekly on Wednesdays and distributed in the Township of Bloom, (publishing 52 issuesannually). W ritten permission isrequired to reproduce contents inwholeor part from the Generalmanager or the publisher CST Weekly does not assume the responsibilityfor nor are weable to return unsolicited marterials. Deadline for advertising is everyMonday at noon. For information on subscriptions oradvertising call us at (773)783-1251. Our office is locatedat 8741S. Greenwood Ave., Ste# 107, Chicago, Illinois 60619.

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Drug prices: SB1682 requires pharmacies to post a notice informing consumers that they may request current pharmacy retail prices at the point of sale.

FOID card changes: HB562 enacts several changes to the Firearm Owner Identification card law. Among other things, it provides for a streamlined renewal process for FOID cards and Concealed Carry Licenses for people who voluntarily submit fingerprint records. It also allows the Illinois State Police to issue a combined FOID card and Concealed Carry License to qualified applicants, and it establishes a new Violent Crime Intelligence Task Force to take enforcement action against people with revoked FOID cards.

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Student mental health: HB576 and SB1577 allow students in Illinois up to five excused absences to attend to their mental or behavioral health without providing a medical note. Those students will be given an opportunity to make up any work they missed during the first absence and, after using a second mental health day, may be referred

to the appropriate school support personnel.

Official flags: HB605 requires state agencies and institutions to purchase Illinois and American flags that are made in the United States.

SOUTH HOLLAND, IL– South Suburban College (SSC) men’s baseball team was honored by the SSC Board of Trustees on Thursday, January 12, for receiving their fourteenth regional title from the National Junior College Athletic Association. The baseball team, coached by Steve Ruzich, has an overall record of 42-19 with a regional championship score of 9-8. “It was a challenging season dealing with the horrible spring weather. I am so proud of these players for what they accomplished. They were dedicated and worked hard, which is why they are champions,” stated Coach Ruzich. Coach Ruzich has had twenty-four players drafted by major league teams, including six players that have reached the big leagues. As a previous player, Steve was named second-team All-American Catcher, All-District Catcher, and All-Area Catcher.

Hair styles: SB817 prohibits discrimination in schools against individuals on the grounds of wearing natural or ethnic hairstyles, which include dreadlocks, braids, twists and afros.

its public health authorities from regulating or shutting down lemonade stands or similar operations that are operated by children under the age of 16. Known as “Hayli’s Law,” it was inspired by 12-year-old Hayli Martinez, whose lemonade stand in Kankakee was shut down by local officials.

During the evening board celebration, the SSC Board of Trustees acknowledged the accomplishments of Coach Ruzich and the baseball team while encouraging continued success in 2023. SSC Chairman Terry Wells added that the baseball team joins other successful SSC

Lemonade stands: SB119 prohib-

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Juneteenth: HB3922 recognizes June 19, or “Juneteenth,” as an official state holiday that commemorates the end of slavery in the

United States. In June, President Joe Biden also signed a bill designating Juneteenth as a federal holiday.

“We should consider adding the school of champions to our moniker in the future, Congrats Team,” stated Chairman Wells. In an interview with the SSC PR team, baseball player Donavan Noble stated, “Being recognized by the SSC Board Members was an honor. Listening to what they said in terms of congratulating us meant a lot. I want to give a big thank you to all of them.” Noble stated that he looks forward to working with his teammates and reaching new heights as a team for the 2023 season.

Capitol News Illinois is a nonprofit, nonpartisan news service covering state government and distributed to more than 400 newspapers statewide. It is funded primarily by the Illinois Press Foundation and the Robert R. McCormick Foundation.

If you are interested in participating in the SSC Men’s Baseball program, contact Coach Steve Ruzich, Director of Athletics, at (708) 596-2000 ext. 5843 or via email at sruzich@ssc.edu<mailto:sruzich@ssc.edu>. The South Suburban College Main Campus is located at 15800 South State Street, South Holland, Illinois. The college’s extension site, the Oak Forest Center, is located at 16333 South Kilbourn Avenue, Oak Forest, Illinois.

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Gov. JB Pritzker is shown here earlier this year in a Capitol News Illinois file photo. The governor signed more than

South Suburban College (SSC) Board of Trustees and Baseball Team.

FRONT ROW (left to right): SSC Board Chairman Terry R. Wells, SSC Baseball player Donavan Noble, SSC Baseball player Scoot Hansen, SSC Baseball player Jimmy Burke, SSC Baseball player Ulysses Munoz, and SSC Baseball player Juni Song. BACK ROW (left to right): SSC Board Trustee Vincent Lockett and SSC Baseball Coach Steve Ruzich.

Morgan State University Professor Anthony Estreet to be next CEO of NASW

WASHINGTON, PRNewswire -- Anthony Estreet, a professor and former chair of the Master of Social Work Program at Morgan State University and chief executive officer of a behavioral health company in Baltimore, will be the new chief executive officer of the National Association of Social Workers (NASW) beginning February 6.

Estreet, PhD, MBA, LCSW-C, succeeds former CEO Angelo McClain, PhD, LICSW, who retired on December 31. Janlee Wong, MSW, who retired as executive director of the NASW California Chapter in 2020, will serve as interim CEO of NASW until Estreet takes the helm.

“We are delighted to have Anthony Estreet as our next CEO at NASW after doing an extensive search,” said NASW President Mildred “Mit” Joyner, DPS, MSW, LCSW. “He has a wealth of experience in managing successful mental health services companies and is a respected thought leader in the social work profession. We are confident he will build on the successes of Angelo

McClain and lead NASW’s accomplished staff to take our association to greater heights.”

Estreet earned a bachelor’s in science in psychology from Bowie State University, a MSW in social work at Virginia Commonwealth University, a doctorate in social work at Morgan State University, and a MBA at the University Maryland-College Park. He is a member of Alpha Phi Alpha, the oldest intercollegiate African American fraternity.

He has been a professor and chair of the Master of Social Work Program at Morgan State University since 2013. Estreet is also founder and chief executive officer of Next Step Treatment Center in Baltimore, which provides substance use treatment and mental health services. He was vice president of the NASW Board of Directors but stepped down from that role after being considered a candidate in the search process. Estreet also served as president of the NASW Maryland Chapter and is an active member of the Council on Social Work Education and the National Association of Black Social Workers.

While at Morgan, Estreet was awarded more

than $6 million in extramural grant funding for social work workforce development, research, and training. He also led the development and expansion of the first MSW program in the United States, and at a historically Black college or university, to have an area of specialized practice focused on addressing substance use disorders.

During his career, Estreet has also been tapped to turn around and expand an underperforming clinical program and speed up public health action to address HIV health disparities among men in Baltimore and Jackson, Miss. Estreet has published extensively in peer-reviewed journals, is a prolific national conference presenter and keynote speaker, and has two published books.

In his new role as CEO of NASW, Estreet says he plans among other things to increase membership, especially among student members; keep the association focused on addressing social justice issues, including racial equity and reproductive rights; and work to strengthen the social work workforce by expanding efforts to increase compensation for social workers.

“I am honored and humbled to be the next CEO of NASW,” Estreet said. “I have been a member of this great organization since 2007. As a former member of the NASW Board I know NASW is committed to supporting social workers and the communities they serve. This organization has done phenomenal work especially in the past three years, including supporting social workers in the delivery of mental health services during the pandemic and addressing systemic racism. However, we have much more work to do, and I stand ready to work collaboratively to support our great profession.”

NAACP Files a Supreme Court Brief to Support Student Debt Relief

(Black PR Wire) WASHINGTON DC – Recently, the NAACP and a historic coalition of cities, states, experts, and advocates filed more than a dozen amicus curiae briefs with the U.S. Supreme Court in support of the Biden Administration’s student debt relief program. This joint move by the coalition comes as the nation’s highest court is set to hear arguments that will determine the fate of Biden’s student debt relief program on February 28th.

“Education is meant to be a key to financial freedom, not the ultimate barrier. The reality is that for far too long, the overwhelming burden of student debt has kept Black Americans from utilizing their education to attain upward mobility and create the generational wealth they seek. Let’s be real - student debt is crushing Black America,” said NAACP President & CEO Derrick Johnson. “The coronavirus pandemic has only made things worse, and borrowers deserve a chance to get back on their feet. The NAACP has advocated for student debt relief for years, mobilizing student borrowers across the country to tell their stories and urging the President to take action. President Biden’s plan to begin addressing the student debt crisis is not only legal but essential

for providing much-needed relief to some 40 million Americans who are dealing with the worst economic crisis since the Great Depression. The NAACP proudly joins our partners in pulling out every tool in the box

greater economic and racial equality in America.”

The NAACP will continue to advocate for closing the racial wealth gap in America. It is the hope of the Association that President Biden’s student debt relief program will move forward and once and for all provide much needed financial relief to millions of Americans. A copy of our Amicus Brief can be found here.

Founded in 1909 in response to the ongoing violence against Black people around the country, the NAACP (National Association for the Advancement of Colored People) is the largest and most pre-eminent civil rights organization in the nation. We have over 2,200 units and branches across the nation, along with well over 2M activists. Our mission is to secure the political, educational, social, and economic equality of rights in order to eliminate race-based discrimination and ensure the health and well-being of all persons.

to make sure borrowers receive the relief they need. It is up to the Supreme Court to do the right thing and uphold the President’s plan to pave the way toward

NOTE: The Legal Defense Fund – also referred to as the NAACP-LDF – was founded in 1940 as a part of the NAACP, but separated in 1957 to become a completely separate entity. It is recognized as the nation’s first civil and human rights law organization and shares our commitment to equal rights.

Anthony Estreet, PhD, MBA, LCSW-C.PRNewsFoto.

BlackPRWire

New in Monterey County in 2023

MONTEREY, Calif., PRNewswire -- 2023 brings new experiences, momentous milestones and more to explore in Monterey County, California. In addition to the celebration of numerous milestones like the 10-year anniversary of Pinnacles National Park, visitors to the region will enjoy an array of fabulous new offerings, from innovative culinary experiences to immersive adventures throughout Monterey County.

“While some things in Monterey County never change, like our breathtaking views and warm hospitality, visitors will find plenty of new reasons to dive deeper and stay longer to explore all our destination has to offer,” said Rob O’Keefe, president and CEO of Monterey County CVB. “On top of the quintessential scenery and world-class activities, the region is welcoming diverse culinary options and unique immersive experiences, adding to the ever-growing reasons for travelers to visit.”

New and Upcoming Accommodations, Partnerships and Programs

From first-class accommodation options to eco-friendly and economical, new and renovated properties abound throughout the county.

Villa Mara Carmel (Carmel-by-theSea) | Opened in May of 2022

An intimate, 16-room boutique luxury hotel nestled in the bucolic Carmel Point neighborhood. Offering a residential-inspired, adults-only experience, the intimate hotel is located one mile from Carmel-by-the-Sea’s iconic downtown area.

Kind Traveler (Big Sur, Carmel Valley, Marina) | Launched in December 2022

The world’s first “give + get” hotel booking platform is now live in Monterey County, with three sustainably minded properties open for booking and more on the way. Promoting community prosperity, Kind Traveler gives back with every booking at iconic properties, including the Post Ranch Inn, Bernardus Lodge & Spa

and Sanctuary Beach Resort.

Hampton Inn & Suites (Marina) | Projected to open in early 2023

Perfect for the budget traveler, the 90-room hotel will offer a 1,200 sq. ft. meeting space, fitness room, guest laundry, a sundries shop, an indoor pool and an outdoor patio across 2 acres. Reservations will be accepted starting January 28, 2023.

Home2 Suites by Hilton (Marina) | Projected to open in late summer/ early fall 2023

A family and pet-friendly accommodation, the 93-room, all-suite hotel is perfect for extended stays and features in-suite kitchenettes. Hotel and Activities Special Offers & Promotions

Eliminating the tedious task of searching for entertainment and deals, visitors can view the very best the county has to offer by booking stays and packages directly through the hotel, like a Beer & Stay Package or whale watching discounts. New packages and offers are added year-round.

Pebble Beach hosting U.S. Women’s Open for the first time | July 2023

For the first time in Pebble Beach history, the iconic golf course will welcome the greatest players in the world to compete for the most coveted championship in women’s golf - the 2023 U.S. Women’s Open on July 5-9, 2023. The U.S. Open and Women’s Open will be played on Pebble Beach Golf Links for decades to come, with scheduling into 2048 for both tournaments.

For more information, visit www.SeeMonterey.com and follow us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.

UNIVERSAL PARKS & RESORTS PLANS TO BRING NEW CONCEPT FOR FAMILIES WITH YOUNG CHILDREN TO FRISCO, TEXAS

FRISCO, Texas, PRNewswire -- Universal Parks & Resorts announces a one-of-a-kind theme park, unlike any other in the world, specifically designed to inspire fun for families with young children. The new park concept, set in a lush green landscape and featuring immersive themed lands, celebrates Universal’s iconic brand of entertainment, humor and innovation and brings to life its beloved characters and stories in ways that will wow even the youngest theme park goers.

The proposed park will be designed to be more intimate and engaging for younger audiences and will be sized for a regional audience. It will be full of family-friendly attractions, interactive and playful shows, character meet and greets, unique merchandise and fun food and beverage venues. Although smaller in size, it will still carry the same quality as Universal’s other larger resort destinations.

Part of 97 acres of land recently purchased by the company, the proposed park also has plans for an adjacent themed hotel and room for expansion. The entire area is intended to have a completely different look, feel, and scale than Universal’s existing parks and will appeal to a new audience for the brand.

Universal Parks & Resorts selected the city of Frisco, in North Texas, as the area for this new concept given the city’s growing population and ability to attract businesses to the area. The proposed location for the new concept is ideally situated east of the Dallas North Tollway and north of Panther Creek Parkway.

“We are excited about the opportunity to partner with the city of Frisco and Mayor Cheney as we work to bring this innovative, new concept to life designed specifically for a younger generation of Universal fans,” said Page Thompson, President, New Ventures, Universal Parks & Resorts. “We think North Texas is the perfect place to launch this unique park for families given its growing popularity within this part of the country.”

“Frisco is one of the fastest growing cities in the U.S. and has been recognized as a great place to plant professional roots and raise a family,” said Frisco Mayor Jeff Cheney. “This new Universal concept will continue to enhance our tax base, expand employment opportunities and bring even more fun to Frisco benefiting our residents, businesses, and visitors.”

Universal Parks & Resorts, a unit of Comcast NBCUniversal, offers guests around the globe today’s most relevant and popular entertainment experiences. With three-time Academy Award winner Steven Spielberg as creative consultant, its theme parks are known for immersive experiences that feature some of the world’s most thrilling and technologically advanced film- and television-based attractions. Universal Parks & Resorts in the U.S. are Universal Studios Hollywood and Universal Orlando Resort. Around the world, UP&R includes Universal Studios Japan in Osaka, a license agreement with Universal Studios Singapore at Resorts World Sentosa, and the recently opened Universal Beijing Resort. Learn more at universalparks.com.

2023 marks the 90th anniversary of Point Lobos State Natural Reserve joining the California State Parks system. PRNEWSFOTO.

Universal Parks & Resorts

John Legend Announces

Loved01 - Affordable Skincare for Melanin-Rich Skin

LOS ANGELES, PRNewswire -- Award-winning singer-songwriter, entrepreneur and activist John Legend announces the launch of Loved01, a unisex skincare brand formulated in partnership with dermatologist Dr. Naana Boakye to treat the needs of melanin-rich skin. With accessibility at its core, the brand’s mission is to democratize skincare with affordably-priced products available at mass retail.

“Our mission is to celebrate melanin-rich skin and provide the love, care, and attention it deserves,” says Loved01 founder John Legend. “We hope to help democratize the beauty space by offering high-quality products at an accessible price point. Everyone deserves to be seen, represented and provided with the tools to love themselves, starting with healthy skin.”

At launch, Loved01 introduces six dermatologist-approved products to offer effective and nurturing skin-care for complexions of color, while addressing issues universal to all skin-types. The formulations are specifically balanced to moisturize, nourish, and uplift melanin-rich skin with natural ingredients that have a history in communities of color including Shea Butter, Jojoba and Coconut Oils and enhanced with the antioxidant properties of Rosehip Oil and Sea Buckthorn Oil. The line includes a Face + Body Wash, an Exfoliating Cleanser, a Shave Cream, a Toning Mist, a Face + Body Moisturizer, and a Face + Body Oil.

Founder of Loved01, John Legend, is dedicated to increasing inclusivity and representation in the skincare industry, and has teamed up with Dr. Boakye to help ensure formulations are of the highest efficacy and standard. Loved01 has worked to ensure all products are reviewed in-depth, bringing forth only the best ingredients and solutions for melanin-rich skin needs coming from a diverse and passionate group.

Legend worked with A-Frame, a Los Angeles based holding company that develops talent-led sustainable personal care brands built for underserved communities, to make the Loved01 brand a reality. “John’s passion for highlighting a missing gap in the skin care space brought us together to make it possible for all to enjoy effective skincare solutions,” says President of Loved01, Kia Lowe. “We’re grateful to our loyal retail partners who have been so supportive and excited to help us reach our mission of making Loved01 accessible to all.”

Loved01 ensures skincare with effective ingredients for melanin-rich skin is financially accessible so that everyone has a chance to properly maintain the health and beauty of their own skin. Products will

range in price between $10 - $15 and be available starting February 1st, 2023 on Loved01.com and at CVS Pharmacy locations nationwide and on CVS.com and launch in select Walmart stores and on Walmart.com in March 2023. For more information, visit loved01.com and follow @Loved01Skin on social.

Founded by John Legend in February 2023, Loved01 is a personal care brand on a mission to democratize skincare by providing elevated, unisex skin and body products for melanin-rich skin, at an affordable price point. Featuring a line of 6 products at launch, Loved01 offers targeted skin-care solutions made of thoughtful ingredients for melanin-rich skin to deliver truly effective results. Loved01’s dermatologist-approved products nourish, moisturize and gently rebalance the skin’s pH levels, leaving users feeling clean, vibrant and beautiful. Rooted in accessibility and simplicity, the brand’s initial collection will be priced from $10-$15 USD. Loved01 will be available starting February 1, 2023 through Loved01.com and at CVS Pharmacy locations nationwide and at CVS. com and launch in select Walmart stores and on Walmart.com in March 2023.

John Legend is an award-winning singer-songwriter, entrepreneur and founder of personal care brand Loved01. Beyond his impressive music career, Legend is an avid advocate for equal opportunity for all people. Legend works to amplify minorities’ voices and representation in spaces they may not be otherwise represented, including the entertainment, beauty and personal care industries. Targeting unmet needs in the skincare industry, Legend became an early investor in Tristan Walker’s brand BEVEL, the first and only head-to-toe grooming brand for Black men. Continuing his work to amplify minority voices, Legend composed the score for Simone Biles’ SK-II skincare episode of the brand’s animated ‘VS Series’ highlighting Olympic athletes’ real-life challenges and animosity they face due to societal beauty standards and social media. Legend also continues to raise awareness and improve accessibility for the BIPOC community through his efforts as the founder of HUMANLEVEL, an initiative to uplift communities disproportionately impacted by institutionalized racism.

A-Frame is a Los Angeles based holding company that develops talent led, personal care and wellness brands created to solve everyday problems for those that need it most. At A-Frame, authentic representation and care is fully embodied by a team that genuinely reflects, at all levels, the communities being served.

Angela Bassett to Receive the Distinguished Artisan Award at 2023 Make-Up Artists & Hair Stylists Guild Awards

HOLLYWOOD, Calif., PRNewswire -- Make-up Artists & Hair Stylists Guild (MUAHS) announced that actress, director, and executive producer Angela Bassett will be honored with the 2023 Distinguished Artisan Award. She will accept the honor at the Annual MUAHS Awards, celebrating the 10th Anniversary and presented by Dyson and HASK® Beauty, on Saturday, February 11, 2023, at The Beverly Hilton. The announcement was made today by Julie Socash, President of IATSE Local 706. Bassett is most recently acclaimed for her creative work on Black Panther: Wakanda Forever, for which she has received a Golden Globe Award and a SAG Award nomination, in addition to the hit primetime television drama “9-1-1.”

The Distinguished Artisan Award will celebrate the prolific spectrum of Bassett’s versatile career on screen and television. The award honors talent that has created memorable characters throughout their career, richly enhanced by the consistent collaboration of make-up and hair styling artistry. Previous legendary recipients include Jon Favreau, Eddie Murphy, Johnny Depp, Ryan Murphy, Guillermo del Toro, Sir Patrick Stewart, Melissa McCarthy, Gary Oldman, Christian Bale, and Dick Smith.

Angela Bassett is an actress, director, and executive producer known for captivating, emotionally tinged performances full of dignity in treasured films such as Waiting to Exhale, How Stella Got Her Groove Back, and the Tina Turner biopic What’s Love Got to Do with It, for which she received an Academy Award nomination. She played the beloved Queen Ramonda in Marvel Studios’ Black Panther and Black Panther: Wakanda Forever, for which she recently won a Golden Globe for Best Supporting Actress. She recently wrapped production on the Netflix Originals feature film, Damsel, opposite Millie Bobby Brown.

Her other notable film roles were in Mission: Impossible - Fallout, Malcolm X, Notorious, Green Lantern, Waiting to Exhale, Contact, Music of the Heart, Bumble Bee, Olympus Has Fallen, and London Has Fallen, among many others.

Other recent projects include Disney/Pixar’s Academy Award-winning animated feature Soul, for which she lent her melodious voice for the character, Dorothea Williams; feature films Otherhood and Gunpowder Milkshake from Netflix; and The Flood from National Geographic, for which she received an Emmy nomination for Outstanding Narrator. Bassett was also nominated for two Emmys for performances in “The Imagineering Story: The Happiest Place on Earth” and for “A Black Lady Sketch Show.” Additional stellar credits include “The Rosa Parks Story,” “American Horror Story” and “Master of None.” Bassett began producing and starring as an LAPD patrol sergeant in the drama series “9-1-1.”

Apple Original Films announced the documentary feature, Number One on the Call Sheet: Black Leading Women in Hollywood, to be directed by Shola Lynch with Bassett and Halle Berry on board as executive producers and will debut globally on AppleTV+. She was recently honored by Glamour’s Women of the Year Awards and received a Critics Choice Documentary Award for Best Narration of Good Night Oppy and the Critics’ Choice Celebration of Black Cinema & Television Career Achievement Award.

Angela and her husband, Courtney B. Vance, are the principals of their production company, Bassett Vance Productions, which has a partnership with Paramount’s MTV Entertainment Group’s development program for BIPOC and women filmmakers. Their first project “One Thousand Years of Slavery” aired in February 2022 on the Smithsonian Channel.

Loved01

Angela Bassett to be honored with 2023 Distinguished Artisan Award at the MUAHS Awards Gala on February 11, 2023 PHOTO BY D’ANDRE MICHAEL)

REACTIVATE APPOINTS UTOPIA HILL CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER

CHICAGO – Reactivate, a joint venture between Invenergy and Lafayette Square, is pleased to announce that Utopia Hill has been appointed Chief Executive Officer by the Board of Directors. Reactivate focuses on developing renewable energy projects that provide impactful benefits to primarily low-to-moderate-income and energy transition communities across the country.

Hill previously served as Head of Engineering, Procurement, and Construction (EPC) at Reactivate and, prior to that role, served as Vice President of Renewables Construction at Invenergy. After beginning her career at General Electric, Hill spent nearly two decades at Invenergy in roles within engineering, procurement and construction and has been involved in over 10,000 MW of renewables projects including wind, solar, and energy storage. Through her decades of project experience, she has been praised by colleagues and industry peers as a focused leader that maintains positive relationships while bringing diverse groups together to execute strategic goals.

“Utopia is the ultimate professional who pos -

sesses the desire and expertise needed to continued riving this industry forward,” said Jim Murphy, President and Corporate Business Leader at Invenergy. “We are thrilled to continue working with Utopia in this vital role. Her experience and leadership skills will help equitable clean energy development and innovative clean energy solutions.”

“Utopia accepts this role as CEO of Reactivate at a time when underserved communities face tremendous challenges given inflation, recession and rising energy costs, “said Damien Dwin, Founder and CEO of Lafayette Square. “She brings integrity and thoughtfulness to the mission of generating profits while delivering impact on the lives of underserved people.”

“I am humbled and honored to be chosen to lead our diverse, innovative and dynamic team,” said Hill. “As someone who grew up in a working-class community that experienced disinvestment and the associated climate and health impacts, I understand the importance of working toward a just and equitable energy future. I look forward to working with industry partners, businesses, and community leaders as we advance the goals of Reactivate.”

“Utopia has been very clear conveying her vision to build a clean energy infrastructure, where everyone benefits, not only from the technology, but also from the socioeconomic opportunities that are created as a result of the infrastructure buildout, “said Adewale OgunBadejo, Vice President of Workforce Development at GRID Alternatives. “She’s not scared to have tough conversations to ensure the work being done is equitable and inclusive, and that there is a real investment in local communities. I don’t think there is a better representation of leadership outside of what I’ve seen organizationally at GRID, than Utopia.”

Hill graduated from the University of Illinois with a degree in Aerospace Engineering. She previously served as the Board Vice-President for the Boys & Girls Club of West Cook County. She also co-founded the employee resource group Black and Brown @ Invenergy. She shares her home with her husband and three teenage children.

Reactivate, a JV powered by Lafayette Square and Invenergy, is a renewable energy company that develops, owns, and operates renewable energy projects to improve the lives of people in low-to-moderate income and energy transition communities across the country. Reactivate’s primary focus areas are community solar, small-scale utility, and next generation projects. Reactivate seeks to create positive social and environmental impact in underserved communities by delivering renewable energy, environmental benefits, job opportunities, energy cost savings and opportunities for minority and women-owned businesses.

Utopia Hill. Reactivate.

Dr. Monique Caradine-Kitchens is the Cover Story of Speakers Magazine January Issue Talking About Living in the Overflow

(Black PR Wire) The new year issue of Speakers Magazine is online and hard copies will be distributed to monthly subscribers and others in their network of outlets. The cover features Dr. Monique Caradine-Kitchens, who is the founder and president of OverFlow Enterprises, LLC, which is the premiere personal development company that helps women fix their relationship with money so they can build wealth.

“We Black women do it all. And it can be a struggle to earn what we’re worth and reach for that bigger life,” says Caradine-Kitchens.

“Many times, we weren’t shown the way. We need practical financial skills—but we weren’t taught them. Often times, we don’t have a financial cushion or generational wealth. We have the hunger—but we need the support,” she added.

That’s why she created the system, space, podcast (SisterNomics) and support network to normalize conversations about money, teach financial skills that generate cashflow so Black women can build a legacy and make an impact.

Her passion for this mission came as a result of working in a high-visibility career for two decades in the media but never earning what she was worth. Eventually, she realized that building wealth starts first with your mindset.

After doing the work to transform her own

money mindset, Caradine-Kitchens launched OverFlow Enterprises LLC. She is expanding her brand as an author, podcaster, trainer and Certified Money Breakthrough Coach for women leaders and entrepreneurs.

Prior to OverFlow Enterprises, Caradine-Kitchens held on-air positions at both WVON Radio in Chicago and My50 Chicago (a FOX affiliate). She hosted and produced community-focused programs and became known as one of the top talk-show hosts in the nation.

In the Speakers magazine January issue are also six other featured speakers:

Sha’Malia Willis

Linda Fegins

Dr. Monique Flemings

Dianne Jennings

Dr. Lougenia J. Rucker

Mandy Lemond

“The purpose of Speakers magazine is to feed (knowledge) to speakers and feature speakers to introduce them to new audiences and give them visibility,” said Dr. Pam Perry, publisher of Speakers magazine.

This month’s articles include:

* 3 Reason Why SEO is Important by Zhe Scott

* 5 Ways to Stay Focus as a Speaker by Brian J. Olds

For more information, visit SpeakersMagazine. com (https://www.speakersmagazine.com) or call (248) 690-6810.

Tyler Perry’s “Six Triple Eight” To Feature StarStudded Cast

(Black PR Wire) As production starts for Tyler Perry’s exciting new project for Netflix, Six Triple Eight, an all-star cast has been announced. Beloved host, producer, and actress Oprah Winfrey and acclaimed actress Kerry Washington are joining the cast of the upcoming epic film. The two talents will star alongside actress Ebony Obsidian, known for her role in Tyler Perry’s series Sistas. Washington is also signed on to Executive Produce the project.

Six Triple Eight’s impressive ensemble cast also includes Milauna Jackson, Kylie Jefferson, Shanice Shantay, Sarah Jeffery, Pepi Sonuga, Jay Reeves, Jeanté

Six Triple Eight tells the inspiring true story of the only all-Black, all-female battalion during World War II.

wrote the original screenplay based on an article written by historian Kevin M. Hymel that details the experience of a group of women who joined the war effort and were assigned the incredible task of fixing the three-year backlog of undelivered mail — all while facing discrimination, unfamiliar surroundings, and the experience of living in a war-torn country.

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Godlock, Moriah Brown, Baadja-Lyne Odums and Gregg Sulkin, along with Dean Norris, Sam Waterston and Susan Sarandon.

Perry

BlackPRWire

MEATLESS MEALS Made Easy

(Family Features) Regardless of your motivation, opting for meatless meals regularly provides plenty of benefits that extend from the health of you and your loved ones to your wallet and the environment.

Whether you’re a vegetarian, vegan, considering making some lifestyle changes or just want to give an on-trend meal prep strategy a try, going meatless can help reduce your intake of red and processed meats, decrease greenhouse gas emissions that cause climate change and save money on substitute ingredients like grains, vegetables, fruits and legumes that are often cheaper than meat.

For example, starting with a versatile pantry staple like Success Brown Rice can make mealtimes quick and easy. Ready in just 10 minutes without measuring or the mess, the fluffy, nutty, non-GMO rice is free of MSG and preservatives, lending itself perfectly to satisfying and hearty meals like these Baked Vegetarian Taquitos. Or for a twist on a classic dish, Tri-Color Quinoa can be layered with traditional flavors in this Mushroom Spinach “Lasagna.” Packed with protein and all nine essential amino acids, the quinoa is a good source of fiber.

To find more meatless meal inspiration, visit SuccessRice.com.

Baked Vegetarian Taquitos

Prep time: 15 minutes

Cook time: 20 minutes

Servings: 4

1 bag Success Brown Rice

1 cup shredded collard greens, packed

1/4 cup frozen corn

1 cup canned black beans, drained and rinsed

2/3 cup canned pumpkin puree

1 1/2 tablespoons taco seasoning

8 flour tortillas (6 inches each)

1 cup Monterey Jack cheese, shredded

2 tablespoons olive oil

sour cream, for dipping salsa, for dipping guacamole, for dipping fresh cilantro, for garnish

Mushroom Spinach “Lasagna”

Prep time: 10 minutes

Cook time: 30 minutes

Servings: 6

2 bags Success Tri-Color Quinoa

1 tablespoon olive oil

2 garlic cloves, chopped

1/2 cup onion, chopped

1 cup mushrooms, sliced

4 cups baby spinach leaves

3 cups tomato sauce

2 cups ricotta cheese

1 egg, lightly beaten

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, divided 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning

1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided

Prepare quinoa according to package directions.

Preheat oven to 375 F.

Prepare rice according to package directions; add collard greens and corn to water during last 5 minutes.

Preheat oven to 450 F. Drain rice and vegetables; transfer to saucepan. Stir in black beans, pumpkin puree and taco seasoning.

Spoon 1/3 cup rice mixture into center of one tortilla; sprinkle with 2 tablespoons Monterey Jack cheese. Roll up tightly. Place seam side down on parchment paper-lined baking sheet. Repeat with remaining tortillas, filling and cheese. Brush taquitos with olive oil; sprinkle with remaining cheese.

Bake 10-15 minutes, or until tortillas are crisp and cheese is melted.

Serve taquitos with sour cream, salsa and guacamole for dipping. Garnish with fresh cilantro.

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In large skillet, heat oil over medium heat. Add garlic and onions; saute 1 minute. Add mushrooms and cook 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. Add spinach and stir until wilted, about 2 minutes. Stir in tomato sauce and keep warm.

In medium bowl, combine ricotta, egg, 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese and Italian seasoning.

Place 1 cup sauce in bottom of 2-quart baking dish. Spread half of quinoa evenly over sauce. Top with half of ricotta mixture. Top with 1 cup sauce. Sprinkle with 1 cup mozzarella. Repeat layers, finishing with remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.

Bake uncovered 30 minutes. Serve warm.

Abbott, Blood Centers of America

Launch First-of-its-Kind Mixed Reality Experience for Use During Blood Donation

LAS VEGAS, PRNewswire -- Abbott (NYSE: ABT) and Blood Centers of America are unveiling an innovative new mixed reality experience for use during blood donation.

The mixed reality technology is an immersive digital experience designed to improve the blood donation process, attract new donors and motivate a younger generation to give blood. The effort intends to address the global challenge of sustaining a reliable blood supply.

“This innovative use of mixed reality is the most recent example of how Abbott is creating leading-edge technology to address a key health care need in the world – maintaining the blood supply,” said Alex Carterson, divisional vice president, medical, scientific and clinical affairs, Abbott. “Not only is it an immersive and unique use of mixed reality controlled completely through eye tracking, it’s a high-tech and creative way to improve the donation experience and make it more appealing for people to participate.”

The mixed reality experience allows blood donation professionals to safely conduct the donation and interact with donors at every step of the process. Donors’ eyes are always visible during donation to ensure constant monitoring and evaluation. Participants wear lightweight mixed reality headsets to enter a digital world but remain fully aware of their surroundings, ensuring a seamless, convenient and safe donation.

Abbott, a global leader in screening blood and plasma, is partnering with Blood Centers of America, the largest blood supplier network in the U.S., to introduce this new technology which was first showcased during CES (the Consumer Electronics Show) in Las Vegas.

The mixed reality experience was designed based on research that natural settings are the most preferred environment as donors give blood. Participants visit a whimsical garden while listening to soothing music, planting seeds that grow into colorful trees and flowers.

The experience is currently being piloted on a limited basis at select Blood Centers of America locations nationwide.

One of the biggest challenges facing the sustainability of our nation’s blood supply over the last decade is the loss of a significant portion of donors under the age of 30. On average only 3% of the U.S. population donates blood each year, and a recent poll of U.S. adults showed that only 15% of 18-to34-year-olds donated blood in 2020.

“We’re always looking for ways to cultivate the next generation of blood donors and find younger people interested in giving,” said Harpreet K. Sandhu, CEO, Stanford Blood Center (Palo Alto, Calif.) and chairperson of Blood Centers of America. “Some people are hesitant to donate for a variety of reasons or just don’t think about giving blood. Since the need for blood is constant, we’re contin-

Silent Night Therapy Announces Its “New Year, New Sleep” Initiative

WEST BABYLON, N.Y., PRNewswire -- The sleep specialists at Silent Night Therapy are proud to announce their “New Year, New Sleep” initiative aimed at helping those in our community start 2023 off right by improving their sleep quality and overall health.

Getting good sleep is important for various reasons. Adequate sleep helps to improve physical health by reducing the risk of conditions such as heart disease, high blood pressure and obesity. Sleep also helps to improve mental health by reducing stress, sharpening focus, improving creativity and problem solving, while increasing feelings of well-being. Making better sleep a priority in the new year can improve your overall health and make you more productive throughout the day.

Sleep apnea is a serious issue affecting adults and harming the health of many by depriving the body of oxygen. It can lead to high blood pressure, heart attack, stroke, and other cardiovascular problems. It can also cause depression, anxiety, and other mental health issues.

For a long time, Continuous Positive Airway Pressure machines, or CPAPs, were the gold standard in sleep appliances. However, 20 years of data suggest that only 34% of patients are adhering to proper use of the CPAP device. Studies show that many techniques for improving compliance have had no effect, suggesting CPAP can no longer be considered the gold standard of sleep apnea treatment.

ually looking for smart new ways that will appeal to people who have never donated before or may be apprehensive. The mixed reality experience is a terrific way to get those people interested in participating. It adds a fun, interactive element to donation and it’s easy and convenient for blood centers to use.”

Mixed reality is similar to virtual reality but allows users to see the real world around them as they immerse themselves in a digital world, whereas in virtual reality, users only experience the digital world. The mixed reality journey uses Microsoft HoloLens 2, the world’s first self-contained holographic computer, enabling hands-free interaction with three-dimensional digital objects and a library of applications. Donors are offered a quick tutorial on the headsets and the mixed reality world prior to use. The headsets can be adjusted for each donor’s comfort and are easily integrated into the donation process.

“At Microsoft, we’ve seen the impact digital technologies can have in healthcare – from empowering health team collaboration and increasing clinician productivity to enhancing the patient experience,” said David C. Rhew, M.D., global chief medical officer and vice president of healthcare, Microsoft. “We’re pleased to see Abbott embrace mixed reality to create a positive experience for blood donors and to encourage the public to donate.”

As part of the effort to launch this new technology, BCA and Abbott are asking people to pledge to donate blood now and sign up to be notified when the mixed reality experience becomes available in their local area. To learn more about becoming a regular donor and pledge to donate, visit bethe1donor.com/CES.

Abbott is a global healthcare leader that helps people live more fully at all stages of life. Our portfolio of life-changing technologies spans the spectrum of healthcare, with leading businesses and products in diagnostics, medical devices, nutritionals and branded generic medicines. Our 113,000 colleagues serve people in more than 160 countries.

Connect with us at www.abbott.com, on LinkedIn at www.linkedin.com/company/abbott-/, on Facebook at www.facebook.com/Abbott and on Twitter @ AbbottNews.

There are several examples of improper use of a CPAP machine that can make the treatment less effective or even cause harm. Some of these include:

Not using the machine consistently: CPAP therapy is most effective when used every night, but some people may stop using it because they find it uncomfortable or have difficulty adjusting to it.

Not adjusting the machine correctly: The pressure setting on the CPAP machine may need to be adjusted to match the person’s needs, and if it is not set correctly, it can make the treatment less effective or even cause discomfort.

Not cleaning the machine regularly: CPAP machines and accessories need to be cleaned regularly to prevent infection and ensure the machine is working properly.

Not using the mask correctly: Using the mask incorrectly can cause leaks and make the treatment less effective.

Not getting the right size mask: A mask that is too large or too small can cause discomfort and leaks, making the treatment less effective.

Not using humidification: Dry air can cause nasal and throat irritation.

An oral appliance device is an alternative treatment option for those who are CPAP intolerant. The device works by gently repositioning the jaw and tongue to keep the airway open. Some benefits of an oral sleep appliance include:

They are custom fitted and more comfortable to wear than a CPAP machine.

They make no noise compared to loud CPAP machines.

They are portable and easy to travel with.

They do not require electricity to operate.

They are easy to clean and maintain.

It is important to consult a sleep specialist to get the proper diagnosis and treatment plan. At Silent Night Therapy, we help patients each step of the way on their journey to better sleep and a healthier life - while staying true to our philosophy of treating patients like family and creating an experience that will exceed expectations. So, if you want to start the new year off right, contact Silent Night Therapy to discuss if an oral sleep appliance is right for you!

The sleep apnea experts at Silent Night Therapy have seen firsthand how lack of sleep can impact your physical and mental health. We also know that the path to a good night’s sleep starts with accurate testing, so contact us now for a simple and convenient test using the Night Owl Mini. Call us or reach out online to schedule an appointment with us at one of our two convenient locations at 785 W Montauk Hwy, #100, West Babylon, NY 11704 or 499 Sunrise Hwy, Suite 13B, Patchogue, NY 11772.

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At ComEd, we’re at work behind-the-scenes to bring you the power you need for the holidays. That way, you can focus on what makes the season special. We’ll handle the rest.

Record-breaking reliability, powered by ComEd.

2022

You bring the magic. We’ll take care of the lights.

© Commonwealth Edison Company,