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BEYONCÉ

AFTER PRITZKER’S BUDGET ADDRESS, LAWMAKERS JOCKEY FOR THEIR OWN SPENDING PRIORITIES

Budget season opens with revenue estimates remaining near record high

SPRINGFIELD – Even factoring in the possibility of a “mild recession” this year, the proposed budget Gov. JB Pritzker laid out on Wednesday includes nearly $50 billion in state spending, bolstered by projections of continued near record-high tax revenues.

State Rep. Will Davis, D-Homewood, speaks at a news conference with fellow members of the Illinois Legislative Black Caucus Wednesday in response to Gov. JB Pritzker’s state budget address. (Credit: Blueroomstream.com)

OUTFRONT Media Celebrates Black History Month with Campaigns to Honor Black Creators and African American Artists

NEW YORK, PRNewswire -- OUTFRONT

Media (NYSE: OUT) launched several OOH campaigns to celebrate and honor the lives, legacies, and artistry of Black Americans throughout Black History Month this February. The campaigns include a partnership with AdAge spotlighting Black creators on billboards throughout the United States and two series celebrating African American artists and artists of color via separate partnerships with MoMA and Artsy. The following provide more details about each campaign:

Celebrating Black Creators with AdAgeOUTFRONT is partnering with AdAge for their annual Black History Month feature celebrating Black creative excellence, which debuted on Feb. 1. The project highlights key moments in the careers of inspiring and influential creators from across the creative industry on OUTFRONT’s digital out-of-home media across the U.S. Each billboard will feature a photo of a Black creative executive making an impact on the industry. Utilizing transit and street-level locations, the campaign will also include a QR code that will direct

commuters to learn more about the full Black Creative Excellence series on AdAge.com. OUTFRONT’s East Coast Regional Creative Director Tim Wasicki, the artist behind the award-winning “Black Heart” campaign, kicked off the month of celebration.

Moments in Culture (Artsy) - This February, Moments in Culture is proud to present Celebrating Black Art History in honor of Black History Month. This series will showcase works of Black Art History from the 1930s all the way up until current day.

“These partnerships and campaigns help propel black creatives into the forefront by diversifying design conversations,” said Tim Wasicki, OUTFRONT’s East Region Creative Director. “OOH sets the stage to drive further recognition through its mass reach and connectivity. We are proud to display this creative on our very visible media across the country.”

OUTFRONT leverages the power of technology, location and creativity to connect brands with consumers outside of their homes through

Media Inc.

one of the largest and most diverse sets of billboard, transit, and mobile assets in North America. Through its technolo -

gy platform, OUTFRONT will fundamentally change the ways advertisers engage audiences on-the-go.

McDonald’s USA ® Joins Forces with Keke Palmer to Shine a Light on Ten Black Visionaries Through the 2023 Black & Positively Golden Change Leaders Program

CHICAGO, PRNewswire -- McDonald’s USA has a long history of investing in Black leaders who are taking steps now to create a brighter tomorrow. And, the Golden Arches and its Owner/Operators unveil the 2023 Black & Positively Golden Change Leaders – a collective of 10 young, Black movers-and-shakers who inspire and enact remarkable change in their communities and beyond. Each Change Leader will receive $20,000, totaling $200,000 collectively, and will have access to elevated platforms to amplify their community missions, ranging from financial literacy to equality across the education system to mental health advocacy.

To further propel their leadership and underscore that Black history and excellence should be celebrated all year, beyond Black History Month, Change Leaders will be featured in a national advertising campaign voiced over by the multitalented award-winning actress, singer and entertainer Keke Palmer. They will also attend culturally impactful events to elevate awareness of their missions, and will have their stories profiled on McDonald’s Black & Positively Golden Instagram, @wearegolden, each month.

“Historically, McDonald’s has celebrated the accomplishments of the people in the communities we serve, and we also recognize the importance of celebrating the community leaders who are starting something today to change everything tomorrow,” says Alexea Gordon, McDonald’s Manager of Cultural Engagement. “This program was created to provide the proper resources needed to help young Black community leaders succeed in their endeavors. These change leaders have the opportunity that we know will have a lasting impact on their communities, and we remain committed to not only celebrating but assisting change makers of the future.”

Much like the Change Leaders, Keke Palmer remains passionate about uplifting young adults, highlighting Black excellence and giving back to the community, making her the perfect ambassador for the Black & Positively Golden Change Leaders TV and radio spots.

“I am so excited to partner with McDonald’s again to pay homage to these young trailblazers who are creating the change they want to see in their communities,” said Keke Palmer. “Each day, they are shaping history for the next generation, and I can’t wait for the world to see how they are creating a better tomorrow.”

MEET THE 2023 BLACK & POSITIVELY GOLDEN CHANGE LEADERS

Andrew Ankamah, Jr., Philadelphia, PA, Founder & Director of The Accountability Initiative

Brianna Baker, Arlington, VA, Activist and Founder of Justice for Black Girls

Dr. Garrick Beauliere, Baltimore, MD, Post-Doctoral Fellow

Kemia Bridgewater, Detroit, MI, Co-Founder of First Generation Gems

Kamarie Brown, Atlanta, GA, Educator

Hope Bryant, Houston, TX, Filmmaker

Nyla Choates, Atlanta, GA, Community Activist & Author of “My Roots Are Rich”

Aaliyah Duah, Brooklyn, NY, Founder of Financial Revolution

Dorian Hollingsworth, Jr., Norfolk, VA, Founder & Executive Director of Teen Care Network

Aaliyah Alicia Thompson, Hampton, GA, Owner of Aaliyah’s Beauty Bar

Each Change Leader was carefully chosen by our selection committee.

“I’m honored to be recognized by McDonald’s as

a Change Leader and hope my journey inspires others that look like me,” said Nyla Choates, 2023 Black & Positively Golden Change Leader, Author, and Community Activist. “When I started my nonprofit organization and wrote the children’s book My Roots are Rich, it was important for me to showcase the positive contributions Black people made to American culture, and I am excited to have a company like McDonald’s to help me raise awareness and continue impacting culture and change in our neighborhoods and beyond.”

Since its inception, initiatives under the Black & Positively Golden platform—Change Leaders, HBCU student scholarships and program funding—have invested in the voices of tomorrow to help serve up bright futures in the Black community. And for decades, McDonald’s has partnered with impactful organizations like National Urban League, NAACP, Boys & Girls Clubs of America, Hope Chicago and more to help close the opportunity gap and provide meaningful resources to the community. In fact, the brand announced this month a new partnership with Included Health to provide specialized physical, social and emotional health care support that is culturally-affirming and clinically-competent to meet the needs of Black U.S.-based employees and their families.

The Golden Arches is committed to feeding and fostering education and career development for the communities it serves, with programs like the HACER® National Scholarship and Education Tour, created to support Hispanic high-school students and their families; the McDonald’s/APIA Scholarship program catered to Asian and Pacific-Islander American students; and the Archways to Opportunity® program, which provides a variety of educational resources to eligible crew at participating U.S. restaurants.

To learn more about the McDonald’s Black & Positively Golden movement and the 2023 Change Leaders program, follow @wearegolden on Instagram and visit mcdchangeleaders.com.

PRNewsFoto/OUTFRONT

Change Leaders will collectively receive $200K and additional resources to positively impact their communities

TREND REPORT: SANDALS® RESORTS

TAKES THE ROMANTIC PULSE OF AMERICA, COINS 2023 ‘THE YEAR OF WE’

MONTEGO BAY, Jamaica, PRNewswire -- Couples are optimistic about their relationships and intend to make more time for their partners in 2023 according to a recent survey by the Sandals Institute of Romance – Sandals Resorts’ trend-house responsible for analyzing and spotting the latest global news in modern love, relationships, and intimacy. Surveying more than 1,000 adults across the United States in partnership with Wakefield Research, the data points to major trends, expectations, and other factors impacting relationships, passion, and connection in the year ahead.

The trend report revealed that romantic experiences remain a top priority despite an uncertain economic outlook and the hard reality of inflation. People expect to be far busier in 2023 than they were in 2022, and they’re making difficult choices about how much they spend, prioritizing immediate needs over frivolous ones. And yet, when it comes to spending their ever-shrinking dollars on romance, a majority say they don’t plan to forfeit gifts, getaways, and activities that strengthen connections and fuel intimacy.

What will romance look like in 2023?

For starters, couples are cozying up to a new year with optimism, with 89% saying their relationship will get better or stay the same in 2023. According to the survey, 4 out of 5 Americans 18 and older (80%) plan to make more time for romance, and nearly 3 in 5 (58%) say rising costs won’t derail their plans for a romantic vacation, as most Americans intend to find the time as well as the funds.

For many, what is considered romantic has evolved and changed over time, with 81% percent saying that they find romance has changed in the last decade. As for what’s romantic in today’s modern world, two-thirds (67%) say a getaway for two would be a particularly romantic gift and the top choice for partners in 2023.

The survey went on to reveal that more than gifts, sharing experiences is proving to be the ultimate love language. Watching the sunset (55%), trying new restaurants and shops (52%), and adventurous outings (51%) also top the list of what’s most romantic.

“The definition of romance varies from couple to couple, but there’s a common thread to a thriving relationship and that is to be intentional about making the time for connection,” said Marsha-Ann Donaldson-Brown, Sandals Resorts’ Director of Weddings & Romance. “The findings from our latest love study are invigorating and compelling, as Americans confirm their commitment to nurturing their relationships in the coming year – which is why we’re celebrating 2023 as the ‘Year of We.’ Getting away from daily life, free from distractions and stresses, inspires people to focus on what matters most, with the majority of couples agreeing they feel closest to each other while on vacation – and moreover, how this time away energizes the relationship beyond the trip.”

The Sandals State of Romance in 2023 survey went on to reveal much about the romantic pulse of America this year. See the full report here, with findings including:

Couples Plan to Make Time for Romance in 2023, Despite Tight Schedules

80% of respondents expect to be busier in 2023, with 2 in 3 (66%) acknowledging it is challenging to find the time for romance. Still, the vast majority (80%) are committed to making more time for it in 2023, with 31% strongly agreeing.

The top obstacles for romance are finding the right setting (41%), financial constraints (38%), work (34%), social obligations (24%), and children (23%).

For Boomers, finding time for romance isn’t as difficult, with 45% saying it is not challenging, compared to 32% of Gen X, 24% of Millennials, and 25% of Gen Z.

In Lean Times, Many Say Romantic Getaways Are Non-Negotiable

58% of respondents wouldn’t let inflation stop them from taking a romantic vacation, and 42% say that romantic activities would be among the last things to cut back during an economic downturn. Moreover, almost two-thirds of those who have been on a romantic vacation in the past year (64%) refuse to let economic factors stop them from taking one in the future.

To help eliminate obstacles, at least temporarily, and create more time for romance, Americans are ready to pack their bags, with the majority saying a getaway is long overdue. Of the 63% who say they are likely to take a romantic vacation in 2023, Millennials are the most restless; 79% say they are likely to take a romantic trip in 2023.

Vacations Are Key to Connection and Intimacy

A majority of Americans (51%) say the closest they’ve felt to their romantic partner is when they’re on vacation together.

When it comes to romantic vacations that deepen connection, Americans prefer a relaxing beach vacation (67%), especially women (72%) and Gen X (74%).

Surveying past guests as well as global travelers in committed relationships, the Sandals Institute of Romance’s data is designed to drive the development of integrated on-resort programming, innovative partnerships geared towards enhancing the guest experience, and expert relationship guidance for couples before, during and after their Luxury Included® vacation.

ROSEWOOD HOTELS & RESORTS®

AIMS FOR NEW HEIGHTS OF ENRICHED LIVING

HONG KONG, PRNewswire -- Turtle Creek, Dallas, is where the Rosewood story began. A peaceful, walkable neighborhood surrounded by grand parks and close to Dallas’s most celebrated sites, it’s not only one of the most coveted residential communities in the country, but also home to the brand’s first property: the iconic Rosewood Mansion on Turtle Creek. Now, the globally-recognized leader in luxury lifestyle returns to the neighborhood with a landmark new offering, Rosewood Residences Turtle Creek, a standalone residential development that will set a new standard for highrise living in Dallas’s metropolitan landscape.

The new 17-story tower, which combines Beaux-arts inspired elegance with a wealth of outstanding amenities, will comprise approximately 46 residences offering effortless luxury in a setting that’s perfectly appointed for experiencing everything Dallas has to offer. Developed by One Turtle Creek to reflect the best of this dynamic city, the property is scheduled for completion in early 2025, with sales to commence in 2023.

The Location

Rosewood Residences Turtle Creek occupies a prime location in Dallas’s Turtle Creek Corridor, a historic neighborhood nicknamed “Dallas’s Front Yard”. Nestled between fine parks and close to the Katy Trail, it’s a secluded but enviably connected destination just minutes away from the beloved neighborhoods of Highland Park, Uptown and Downtown. Thanks to its peaceful ambience, it has been favored as an exclusive residential enclave throughout the 20th century, and boasts many fine examples of modern and contemporary architecture.

The Design

Rosewood Residences Turtle Creek reflects Rosewood’s A Sense of Place™ philosophy by embracing Turtle Creek’s beautiful setting and illustrious history in its architecture and design. The building, masterminded by Chicago-based architect Lucien Lagrange, offers a contemporary spin on the Beaux-arts inspired American architecture of the early 20th century, welcoming residents and their guests at its base with an elegant arched entryway before soaring upwards to embrace the sky with its asymmetric summit. Balancing the artful with the approachable, the tower will showcase Lagrange’s sophisticated style and singular approach to craftsmanship, dimension and detail. Ranging from approximately 2,000 to 6,380 square feet, with the option to combine units for an even more spacious abode, each lightfilled residence will make the most of the surrounding area through distinctive architectural detailing. Of note will be the ceiling-height windows, stretching from ten to over twelve

feet tall, that offer immersive city or park views. Interior schemes from renowned designer Dan Fink will continue to draw upon the colors, tones and quality of light along Turtle Creek’s nature-filled waterway to create harmonious living spaces that complement the building’s striking neoclassical sensibility. Fink’s canvas will further include the building’s many shared spaces, which will balance luxurious materials with a mix of feminine and masculine tones to create a harmony between the classical and the modern.

The Lifestyle

Rosewood Residences Turtle Creek has been conceived with the highest standards of enriched living in mind. Its wealth of exclusive amenities includes a rooftop oasis complete with an infinity pool and lounge, each boasting spectacular views of the Dallas skyline; a landscaped garden for intimate gatherings and events, and a fitness center, library, and private dining room spaces. The building will further feature a first floor lounge, full time concierge, and valet. Pet friendly offerings, meanwhile, include a dedicated dog park, pet spa, and garden. As hospitality is a defining factor of the Rosewood experience, residents will also benefit from round the clock support from a dedicated Rosewood Residential Team. This group of experts with deep knowledge of the area will manage all aspects of the Rosewood Residences Turtle Creek experience to provide residents with a wide range of additional services.

A Tribute to Turtle Creek

“Given the symbolic significance Dallas holds for us at Rosewood Hotels & Resorts, we are thrilled to be bringing our residential concept to this market,” said Brad Berry, Vice President of Global Residential Development at Rosewood Hotel Group. “Planting the Rosewood Residences flag in the same neighborhood as our very first hotel is a great moment for us as we continue to grow our footprint. But, of course, Turtle Creek is a special setting in its own right, and I think these one-of-a-kind residences embrace the area’s natural beauty, rich history and incredible location, and will provide residents with an unrivaled quality of life in Dallas.”

“With this project, we are realizing our vision of bringing timeless architecture together with exceptional service in the upscale residential neighborhood of Turtle Creek,” says developer Preston Cheng of One Turtle Creek. “This hasn’t been done before in Dallas, and to do so with Rosewood, renowned architect Lucien Lagrange, and AD100 interior designer Dan Fink, adds another level of excitement.”

For more information about Rosewood Residences Turtle Creek, please visit www.residencesturtlecreek.com. For more information, please visit rosewoodhotels.com

KISS Colors & Care Announces Rap Sensation JT from CITY GIRLS as their NEW BRAND PARTNER and the introduction of its latest styling collection.

KISS Colors & Care is dedicated to celebrating individual empowerment and self-expression in its consumers’ hair journey by delivering high-quality, nourishing, innovative products to style confidently. As a longtime fan of the KISS brand and a trendsetter herself, JT is the perfect celebrity to align with the ethos of the brand message and belief – Your Hair, Your Style.

“I’ve always been the girl who was creative with her hair and looks. I’m not afraid to try different styles and different colors that are trendsetting. I love having options that cater to my texture and creativity, so being the face of KISS Colors and Care was the perfect collaboration. Let’s Be Bold!” says JT.

As the KISS Colors and Care brand partner, JT will champion our products through her unique content creation for editorials, press, and events. She will also give her fans and followers an exclusive sneak peek of how KISS Colors & Care is essential to her day-to-day beauty routine through her social platforms!

“JT is the epitome of confidence and self-expression. Because KISS Colors and Care celebrates creativity and style versatility, we could not think of a more iconic brand partner to represent the brand and its philosophy. We’re thrilled to have JT as our celebrity partner - she continues to be a disruptive force in the music, fashion, and beauty industries. She is bold and embraces new hair looks with confidence and authenticity, which aligns perfectly with our new styling collection,” said SVP of Global Marketing Annette DeVita-Goldstein.

JT’s love for different hairstyles has kept her a pro at switching up her look and vibe. Her passion for braids, stunning updos, and gorgeous locks make her the perfect advocate for the new KISS Colors & Care styling products. The new styling collection includes Braid, Loc and Twist stylers, Edge Fixer Wax sticks, and Reversible Premium Crepe Satin Hair Bonnet Super Jumbo and Braid Bonnet available at KISSColors.com, Amazon.com and select Walmart and CVS stores.

The KISS Colors & Care Braiding Gel Maximum Hold and Braiding Gel Extreme Hold are great for starting, maintaining, and moisturizing protective styles without buildup and flaking.

Infused with Organic Jamaican Black Castor Oil, Peppermint Oil, Rosemary Oil, Olive Oil, and Biotin B7 Organic without sulfates and parabens to nourish the scalp and deliver moisture and shine. The extreme hold is ideal for coarser hair types and larger braid styles. SRP $8.99

The KISS Colors & Care Locking Gel Regular Hold and Locking Wax Maximum Hold are great to start and maintain locs without buildup and flaking. Infused with Organic Jamaican Black Castor Oil, Peppermint Oil, Rosemary Oil, Olive Oil, and

to nourish the scalp and deliver moisture and shine. SRP $7.99

The KISS Colors & Care Edge Fixer Wax Stick provides an innovative spin on our award-winning Edge Fixer edge control. The new push-up or twist-up dispenser gives you the power and control for easy, mess-free styling. Infused with Biotin B7 and Shea Butter to stimulate growth and strengthen roots. Perfect for slicked-back looks, taming fly-aways, and edge styling, delivering maximum hold, guaranteed for over 24 hours. Available in 4 scents: Sweet Peach, Original, Coconut, and Watermelon. SRP $9.99

The Reversible Premium Crepe Satin Bonnet, Super Jumbo Bonnet, and Braid Bonnet are made with two different densities of silky polyester threads to help maintain healthy hair and natural curls. Designed for day or night wear to defend against dryness, friction, and split ends. Super Jumbo size provides versatility for all hair types and styles. Long braid bonnet keeps long protective styles secure and frizz-free. SRP $8.49

With KISS Colors & Care, everyone can express themselves and showcase their different sides, styles, and attitudes.

Biotin B7 Organic without sulfates and parabens to nourish the scalp and deliver moisture and shine. Locking Wax Maximum Hold is ideal for coarser hair types. SRP $8.99

The KISS Colors & Care Twist Curl Gel is a lightweight formula that provides a soft, touchable hold for defining sponge twist styles, twist-outs, flat twist styles, and more. Infused with Organic Jamaican Black Castor Oil, Peppermint Oil, Rosemary Oil, Olive Oil, and Biotin B7 Organic without sulfates and parabens to nourish the scalp and deliver moisture and shine. SRP $8.99

The KISS Colors & Care Foam Mousse is a multipurpose styler that adds the finishing touch to protective styles and sets twist-outs, roller sets, wrap-styles, and more! Infused with Organic Jamaican Black Castor Oil, Peppermint Oil, Rosemary Oil, Olive Oil, and Biotin B7 Organic without sulfates and parabens

KISS Colors & Care features an award-winning collection of styling products infused with gold standard ingredients like organic Jamaican black castor oil, Rosemary Oil, Peppermint Oil, Honey, and Biotin B7 and hairhealthy accessories made with high-quality fabrics to safely protect hair and prevent frizz. Innovation is centered around textured hair to provide healthy solutions for a wide array of hair types and textures so that consumers can confidently express their hair and style. For more information, visit: kisscolors.com.

Our brand partner JT, also known as “Jatavia Shakara Johnson,” is a well-known artist who rose to fame as one half of the hip-hop duo City Girls. She is a Florida native turned songwriter and rapper. Her bold lyrics, unapologetic style, and iconic beauty are a source of inspiration to fans worldwide. On and off the stage, JT exudes natural confidence and authenticity and remains true to herself, her music, and her style, which makes her the perfect partner for the Kiss Colors & Care brand.

In Celebration of Black History Month, Color Street Foundation Partners with Jackson State University & Unveils Limited-Edition CULTURAL CELEBRATION Nail Strips

NEW YORK, PRNewswire -- In its ongoing commitment to champion causes and organizations it believes in, the Color Street Foundation, the charitable arm of Color Street, announces its support of Black History Month via a special partnership with Jackson State University and the unveiling of uniquely beautiful, limited-edition Cultural Celebration nail strips. In conjunction with this launch, the Color Street marketing team will host a mentorship initiative with design students from the school and award a total of $20,000 in educational scholarships. As one of the largest HBCUs (Historically Black Colleges & Universities) in the United States, Jackson State University was founded in 1877 in Jackson, Mississippi, and is a magnet for students from across the entire nation.

“We are truly excited to work with the design and marketing teams at Color Street to provide mentorship and professional development to our talented students,” said Mark Geil, Interim Chair and Associate Professor of Art for Jackson State University’s Department of Art + Design & Theatre. “Connecting the design classroom with the design profession is one of the best ways to truly enrich a student’s education. At the same time, the exceptional generosity of the Color Street Foundation in donating $20,000 towards educational scholarships in our department will make an enormous impact

for our students.”

Chosen in Spring, 2023, the scholarship recipients will be able to apply the monies toward the 2023 academic school year starting this coming fall. This project will start now, with mentoring graduating seniors, and then continue in the fall with graphic design students. During the fall semester, Color Street will begin working with the school’s juniors and seniors, helping them to polish their portfolios and develop key skills. As part of an ongoing program, these skills will then enable the Jackson State University students to help design next year’s Black History Month themed nail strips.

This year’s Black History Month design, inspired by the traditional mudcloth of the West Africa country of Mali, blends fashion and history in one easy-to-use, high-impact look. Whether you choose to go for a complete set or mix and match with other Color Street nail strips, the results are always powerful, eye-catching and thought-provoking.

“During this very significant moment of cultural awareness for Black History, we recognize the importance of supporting future talent within the black community. Color Street and The Color Street Foundation are honored to nurture an ongoing and meaningful relationship with Jackson State University to develop and mentor future creative professionals. We are passionate about our commitment to give back

and look forward to working with Jackson State’s upcoming leaders in the creative space.” - Color Street

In July of 2018, Founder and CEO, Fa Park, established the Color Street Foundation to make a difference in our local and national communities. Limited-edition nail strips are designed in support of causes that resonate with stylists and customers, to help start the conversation and raise awareness for important causes and charitable organizations. To date, the Color Street Foundation has donated $6.4 million to 70 charity partners.

The technology behind Color Street was created in 1988 by Fa Park, who observed how much time women wasted waiting for nail polish to set and the difficulty of obtaining a perfect manicure. Determined to make this process faster and flawless, Mr. Park, after years of research and refinement, created patented Nail Strips made with real nail polish that apply in seconds, don’t require tools, and are immediately dry to the touch. Top beauty brands utilized his revolutionary patent for years, yet Mr. Park wasn’t satisfied. Desiring to share his success with women nationwide, and to inspire others to pave their own entrepreneurial path, he created Color Street in 2017 Today, over 100,000 women and men sell the salon-quality Nail Strips directly to consumers, developing teams of Stylists to distribute the product and serve as brand advocates. Each Color Street Nail Strip consists of a base coat, rich color and top coat made of high quality, genuine nail polish. They are available in hundreds of colors and designs, and new collections launch several times per year.

Color Street

KISS Colors & Care

LISC and Uber Eats announce Black Restaurant Fund to expand access to growth capital, fuel underserved businesses and communities

NEW YORK, PRNewswire -- The Local Initiatives Support Corporation (LISC) and Uber Eats [NYSE:UBER] are teaming up to launch a new investment program that will provide growth capital to Black restaurant owners and help break down some of the systemic financial barriers that often limit their opportunities.

The Black Restaurant Fund, announced at Uber and Eat Okra’s Black Business Resource Launch Party in Atlanta, will provide financing with a unique twist: unlike traditional loan products, the investments do not have fixed repayment terms. Instead, they are patient, flexible investments that only require repayment after owners achieve targeted revenue growth.

“Black-owned restaurants have historically been locked out of economic opportunity, which limits their ability to grow and thrive,” said Julia Paige, Uber’s director of social impact. “Uber and LISC created the Black Restaurant Fund to help close the resource gap by connecting Black food entrepreneurs to flexible capital to fuel growth and expansion while seeding wealth creation in Black communities.”

According to the National Restaurant Association, the restaurant industry has a higher rate of minority business ownership than the overall private sector in every state. But, at the same time, minority-owned businesses are more likely to have been denied credit, less likely to receive the full credit amount requested, and more likely to be discour-

aged from applying for credit, according to the U.S. Small Business Administration.

As a result, they tend to grow more slowly, generate lower profits, hire fewer employees, and create less wealth than otherwise might be the case.

The Black Restaurant Fund, which will be administered by LISC, directly addresses this capital gap by focusing on restaurants in economically disadvantaged communities that have employees, are partners of Uber Eats, and generate revenues from $250,000 to $3 million—meaning they are in a position to effectively deploy growth capital. LISC and Uber expect the initiative will help fuel 35 businesses over the next three years.

“This program is making an investment in a healthy, equitable future for Black restaurant owners and their employees as well as the communities where they operate,” said George Ashton, managing director of LISC Strategic Investments, which is overseeing the initiative.

“We take a different approach to underwriting than many investors do because we can look beyond traditional metrics to consider the real-world potential of these enterprises,” he explained. “It means we can build collaborations and investment products that support their plans for sustainable growth—like this new program with Uber—while at the same time helping owners build a financial track record that can help open doors to conventional investors in the future.”

Uber has been a valuable LISC partner in recent

years, collaborating on programs that provided vital financial and technical assistance to more than 1,000 restaurants during the pandemic—mostly owned by entrepreneurs of color. Uber also worked with LISC to advance health aims in underserved communities, ensuring residents had better access to accurate medical information and vaccines.

For more information on the Black Restaurant Fund or to request a conversation about your restaurant, visit https://www.liscstrategicinvestments.org/ uber-black-restaurant-fund.

LISC is one of the country’s largest community development organizations, helping forge vibrant, resilient communities across America. We work with residents and partners to close systemic gaps in health, wealth and opportunity and advance racial equity so that people and places can thrive. Since our founding in 1979, LISC has invested $26.7 billion to create more than 463,000 affordable homes and apartments, develop 78.5 million square feet of retail, community and educational space and help tens of thousands of people find employment and improve their finances. For more, visit www.lisc.org.

Uber Eats is an on-demand app and website that helps bring millions of people around the world the things they want, at the tap of a button. We partner with over 870,000 restaurants and merchants in more than 11,000 cities across six continents. From specialty local favorites to national brand names, groceries to household essentials and more, Uber Eats has what you want when you want it.

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BEYONCÉ HIRES POWERHOUSE TO RUN PARKWOOD ENTERTAINMENT

LOS ANGELES, PRNewswire

-- Parkwood Entertainment announced today that Beyoncé has tapped Justina Omokhua, as Senior Vice President of Parkwood Entertainment, running day to day operations.

Omokhua joined the company a little more than six months ago, diving right into the global monumental release of the Grammy-winning RENAISSANCE album. She leads a successful team at Parkwood including departments in creative, editorial, public relations and technology.

“Justina brings a wealth of marketing knowledge and experience to Parkwood Entertainment,” said Beyoncé, Founder and Chairwoman. “I am pleased to officially welcome her to the team and excited to have her expertise as we continue to grow.”

Before her move to Parkwood Entertainment, Omokhua held impressive leadership and marketing positions at major companies, including Endeavor as SVP, Brand Marketing, working with WME and IMG, and Apple as Global Head of Content and Lifestyle Strategy, where she was responsible for all marketing efforts to acquire and retain users and build the brand across the Apple Services suite of businesses, including Apple Music, Apple TV+, Apple Books, Apple Podcasts, and Apple News.

Before positions in tech and entertainment, Omokhua was part of marketing teams at Pepsi, Nokia, L’Oréal, and Verizon.

“Parkwood is the epitome of excellence and to serve in this role is an opportunity of a lifetime,” Said Omokhua. “We will continue to push boundaries and challenge the status quo.”

Omokhua is a Toronto native, born to Nigerian parents. She brings a global perspective to her work that matches brand Parkwood effortlessly. She is based in Los Angeles and reports directly to the Chairwoman.

Parkwood Entertainment is a film and production company, record label and management firm founded by entertainer and entrepreneur, Beyoncé in 2010. With offices in Los Angeles and New York City, the company houses departments in music, film, video, live performances and concert production, management, business development, marketing, digital, creative, philanthropy, and publicity. Under its original name,

Parkwood Pictures, the company released the film Cadillac Records (2008), in which Beyoncé starred and co-produced. The company has also released the films Obsessed (2009), with Beyoncé as star and executive producer, the winner of the Peabody Award for Entertainment, Lemonade (2017), the Emmy®-nominated Homecoming: A Film By Beyoncé (2019), which documents Beyoncé’s history-making performance at the Coachella Valley Music & Arts Festival in 2018, and the Emmy®-winning Black Is King (2020). Parkwood Entertainment produced The Mrs. Carter Show World Tour (2013-2014), The Formation World Tour (2016), and the aforementioned “Homecoming” performances at Coachella (2018) and co-produced the ON THE RUN Tour (2014) and ON THE RUN II (2018).

SEAN ‘DIDDY’ COMBS ANNOUNCES EXPANSION OF BUSINESS PORTFOLIO WITH REBRANDING OF COMBS ENTERPRISES TO ‘COMBS GLOBAL’

LOS ANGELES, PRNewswire -- After three decades of entrepreneurial success across his renowned brands and a historic last year including a landmark acquisition of becoming the largest minority-owned, vertically integrated multi-state operator in the Cannabis industry, Sean “Diddy” Combs announces the rebranding of his parent company from Combs Enterprises to Combs Global.

This announcement marks the global expansion of his distinguished portfolio of businesses that have represented dominance across music, entertainment, fashion, spirits, and media/television. At its founding in 2013, Combs Global started with Bad Boy Entertainment, Combs Spirits (Cîroc Vodka, DeLeón Tequila), AQUAhydrate, REVOLT MEDIA, Sean John, Capital Preparatory Charter Schools, and The Sean Combs Foundation. Since then, it has expanded to include new business units and ventures such as Empower Global formally Shop Circulate, Our Fair Share, Love Records, and into Cannabis. Combs Global is entering a new chapter with a distinct vision and shows no signs of slowing down.

“Combs Global represents the next chapter in my journey as a business leader and a bigger vision to build the largest portfolio of leading Blackowned brands in the world,” said Sean “Diddy” Combs.

“I’ve enlisted world-class teams of top executives, specialists and strategic partners to bring this new dream to life and put us in the best position to keep making history while leading another 30 years of dominance across industries.”

This past year, Combs’ acquisition of The Nile List, his $2M investment in creator platform REC Philly, and the historic $185M acquisition of key markets and assets from leading Cannabis company CRESCO Labs added to the Combs Global portfolio. Combs also expanded his prestigious Capital Preparatory charter schools to now include campuses in the Bronx, New York and Hartford, Connecticut. Making an anticipated return to Music, Combs announced the launch of Love Records, an all-R&B record label, adding a new music imprint to his portfolio that builds on the legendary legacy of Bad Boy Entertainment.

With the launch of Combs Global, there has been a complete rebranding of the website, social channels, and brand communications, ushering in an exciting new era for the company. The announcement of the new visual identity coincides with plans to take the company and its business units international. 2023 will mark a year of incredible milestones for Combs Global. With the 30th anniversary of Bad Boy Entertainment, 15th anniversary of Combs’ partnership with Diageo, the 10th anniversary of REVOLT, Combs will continue setting the standard as one of the most successful and innovative entrepreneurs of all-time.

The new logo was unveiled in the highly successful Uber One Super Bowl commercial starring Combs where he dreams up a hit song for Uber One, a reminder of Combs unrivaled success as a hitmaker. Combs is the consummate marketer using the moment to not only introduce the new company name and logo but also integrate his spirits brands, Cîroc Vodka and DeLeón Tequila, into the spot. The commercial was teased at Grammys Pro Bowl, and NCAA men’s basketball and the full commercial debuted last week.

ATTORNEY GENERAL RAOUL CAUTIONS DONORS TO BE WARY OF SCAMS TIED TO EARTHQUAKE RELIEF EFFORTS

Raoul Urges Illinois Contributors to Research Charities Before Donating

Chicago - Attorney General Kwame Raoul urged Illinois residents who plan to donate to support Turkey and Syria earthquake relief efforts to be on the lookout for fundraising scams. Raoul warned donors who want to give to the earthquake relief efforts to be wary of requests for clothing, food or other in-kind donations, which may not be appropriate.

Attorney General Raoul advised donors to ask questions to determine who receives the donations and what the charity’s transportation and distribution plans are to ensure the organization can effectively provide aid. He also said unless the charitable organization has the staff and infrastructure to distribute such aid, the donations may be more of a burden than a help.

“The devastating earthquakes in Turkey and Syria have sadly caused widespread destruction and loss of life. I urge Illinoisans who want to help by donating to the relief effort to take the time to look into the charitable organization before donating,” Raoul said. “Taking that extra step will help ensure your donations reach legitimate causes that directly contribute to helping the people of Turkey, Syria and other affected locations.”

Donors should give directly to charities that have a presence in the region instead of giving to an organization that supports multiple groups. Raoul also said donors should be wary of those

who are not experienced in relief assistance.

Attorney General Raoul recommended that anyone who receives a call from a solicitor asking for donations keep detailed notes with the date and time of the call, the organization’s name, the name of the solicitor, the “pitch” the organization makes, and any other pertinent information.

Attorney General Raoul encourages donors to consider the following tips to ensure donations are used for the intended purpose:

Ask how much of the donation will go to the charity and how much will be used to pay fundraising costs. Solicitors must give this information if asked.

Pay close attention to the name of the charity. Some fraudulent charities mislead donors with names that sound or look like those of legitimate organizations.

Ask questions about the charity. Donors should give only when their questions have been answered and when they are certain their money will be used according to their wishes. Donors should ask questions such as if the charity is registered with the Illinois Attorney General’s office and what percentage of the donation goes toward fundraising, administration, and charitable programming.

Exercise caution when giving online. Email solicitations that appear to be linked to relief

Her curiosity will illuminate the future

Currently, less than 10% of the STEM workforce is Black, despite the significant impact of Black inventors and scholars in the industry.

To celebrate Black History Month, ComEd’s STEM Lab program pairs Black ComEd employees with Black high school students interested in STEM. Our goal is to help the students see the possibilities of working in STEM while building robots with their mentors.

ComEd’s STEM Labs is a program specially made to encourage students of color and young women to pursue careers in STEM. Get notified about this program and other free STEM programs for students of color and young women at STEMSignUp.com/COMED

groups could be from scammers trying to take advantage of donors. Donors should be wary of any solicitations online from unfamiliar charities.

Be careful with personal information. Donors should be cautious before giving out credit card or personal information over the phone, by text message, or via the internet.

Do not pay in cash. For security and tax record purposes, pay by check. Be sure to write the full official name of the charity on a check and do not use abbreviations.

Request written information. A legitimate charity will provide information outlining its mission, how donations are distributed, and proof that contributions are tax deductible.

Do not donate if the solicitor uses high-pressure tactics, asks for cash payment or insists on sending someone to pick up a donation. These are all hallmarks of a scam.

Under Illinois law, fundraisers and charitable organizations are required to register each year with the Attorney General’s office. To assist potential donors in making wise giving decisions, Attorney General Raoul provides important information about charitable organizations such as income, expenditures and programs. Raoul also encouraged donors to contact his office’s Charitable Trust Bureau to report suspicious solicitations by calling 312-814-2595.

HealthyWomen Launches Initiative to Find Solutions to Address Unique Challenges and Needs Facing Midlife Women’s Health

RED BANK, N.J., PRNewswire -- HealthyWomen, the nation’s leading independent nonprofit health resource for women, recently released a new report, “Aging Smart. Aging Well. A National Action Plan,’’ which sheds light on the unique needs, challenges and opportunities women face, particularly as they age. The report will serve as the basis for a multiyear initiative leveraging HealthyWomen’s 30-plus years of experience and research to foster systemic change that meets the critical needs of women today and our daughters tomorrow, while also shifting the dialogue to one of positive aging.

The health of women in midlife, ages 35-64, has long gone under-researched and under-resourced. To better understand the barriers women face when it comes to receiving the quality of healthcare they deserve, HealthyWomen convened a working group composed of national trailblazers, women’s health experts and advocacy organizations representing the priority health areas for midlife women.

With input and recommendations from the working group, HealthyWomen created a national survey that sought to understand women’s perceptions of their health and identify barriers and challenges to diagnosis, treatment and prevention of key conditions and focus areas of women’s midlife health. Nearly 6,200 women

from diverse backgrounds between the ages of 35 and 64 participated.

The overwhelming response and the outcome from the data highlighted that there is much work to be done. Despite the fact that virtually all women surveyed reported trying to stay healthy, whether through proper nutrition, sleep or physical activity, as well as staying

be OK.”

Overall Findings From the Survey:

Nearly two-thirds (62%) reported at least one barrier to taking care of their overall health and prevention.

Just a little over half (51%) said they’re fully up to date on all recommended health screenings, and one out of five had no preventive exams in 2021.

The rising costs of deductibles and copayments are making it increasingly difficult for the average person to get the healthcare they need.

The high cost of healthy foods is a barrier to staying or becoming healthy, especially with the recent rise in inflation.

up to date with recommended vaccines, almost half of those surveyed (42%) rated their overall health as just OK or worse (poor or extremely poor). Nearly twothirds (62%) of women reported at least one barrier to taking care of their overall health and prevention.

“Women’s healthcare needs are often downplayed, ignored or simply misunderstood, which has led to these gaps and barriers when it comes to aging,” said Beth Battaglino, RN-C,CEO of HealthyWomen. “In addition, many women don’t make their own health a priority, putting the needs of loved ones ahead of their own, and simply accepting aging as a negative fact of life. We will change the narrative — it is no longer OK to simply

One in 10 said they feel like no one understands what they’re going through and their HCPs have minimized or dismissed their concerns in the past. A few went so far as to say they are afraid of, or do not trust, HCPs.

Nearly one in four said they had difficulty identifying their health issues. Many women often feel their concerns are dismissed, minimized and even judged.

This initiative was made possible with the generous support of Amgen; AstraZeneca; Daiichi Sankyo, Inc.; Bristol Myers Squibb; Exelixis, Inc.; Novocure, Inc.; and Vertex Pharmaceuticals, Inc.

For more information visit HealthyWomen.org.

My Cardiologist Launches The Women’s Heart Health Program

MIAMI, PRNewswire -- Novocardia, a value-based cardiovascular disease care platform, and My Cardiologist, a trusted provider of cardiovascular services in South Florida for more than 60 years, are pleased to announce the launch of The Women’s Heart Health Program in South Florida. The new cardiac clinical center will focus on preventing, diagnosing and treating cardiovascular disease, 70% of which is preventable.

Recognizing that women face unique risk factors for heart disease, the Women’s Heart Health Program is designed to ensure that women receive expert specialty care for all their cardiovascular needs.

“Over 70 percent of cardiovascular disease is preventable, and 90 percent of women have at least one cardiac disease risk factor. Yet heart disease in women is often overlooked and under-diagnosed,” says Dr. Abbe Rosenbaum, a cardiologist and nuclear cardiologist at My Cardiologist who is leading the new women’s heart program.

“By ensuring that women receive optimal cardiovascular care, we can prevent heart attacks and strokes, and help women’s hearts stay healthy and strong throughout their lives.”

My Cardiologist is a comprehensive cardiology practice with six locations in Miami-Dade and Palm Beach counties. The program targets women over age 40 with a focus on screening for traditional and gender-specific risk factors; women of childbearing age at risk for hypertensive diseases of pregnancy; and oncology patients/breast cancer survivors.

“While strides have been made in decreasing heart disease, awareness of risk factors remains low among Hispanic, Black, and South Asian women,” Rosenbaum says. “The women’s heart program will seek to reach women from diverse communities through partnerships and outreach with churches and other community groups.”

Women’s Cardiovascular Disease Symptoms Differ from Men’s

Men and women face many similar risk factors for heart disease, such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, obesity and smoking. But women may also face gender-specific risks.

These include past pregnancy complications, early menopause, breast cancer treatments, and autoimmune diseases, which affect women more often than men. Yet Rosenbaum notes that these risk factors are often not included in tools to estimate cardiovascular risk.

Women may also experience heart disease differently. Heart attack symptoms in both men and women often include chest pain, sweating, shortness of breath, and arm, neck, jaw or back pain.

Women, however, are less likely to have some of those classic signs. Instead, they may experience extreme fatigue, lightheadedness, nausea, heart palpitations and sudden confusion. Women are also more likely to dismiss their symptoms or delay seeking care, and when they do, they are 50 percent more likely to be misdiagnosed.

The women’s heart program will include prevention services and screenings, a personalized assessment of heart disease risk and care from specialists in interventional cardiology, structural cardiology, electrophysiology, heart failure and peripheral venous and arterial disease.

“The launch of the Women’s Heart Health Program continues My Cardiologist’s longstanding commitment to bringing the highest quality cardiology care to all South Florida residents,” says Dr. Dan Blumenthal, Novocardia CEO. “This program will both help to raise awareness among women about cardiovascular disease risks and ways to prevent heart disease, and provide women with a wide range of heart conditions expert care that is specifically geared toward their needs.”

To support women in lowering their heart disease

risk, the program takes a multidisciplinary, holistic approach. Services will include assistance with blood pressure control, smoking cessation, diabetes management, weight loss and exercise programs. The clinical team will also collaborate with ob-gyns and primary care physicians to ensure the full spectrum of women’s health needs are met.

Online Women’s Heart Risk Screening Tool Now Available

To support awareness of the unique risk factors that affect women, My Cardiologist is also launching a new online cardiovascular disease assessment tool. The free virtual heart risk screening tool provides an interactive quiz that covers a wide range of questions related to their lifestyle and overall health. At the end of the short quiz, users receive a risk assessment score relative to their likelihood of developing or having heart disease. To take the free online heart risk assessment, please visit www.mycardiologist.com/heart-risk.

Founded in 2020, Novocardia is on a mission to transform the delivery of cardiovascular care for all by building the national cardiovascular network of choice for high-quality, high-value care. Novocardia is committed to putting cardiologists, and their patients, at the center of care by investing in our partner practices, deploying purpose-built data and analytics tools to improve patient outcomes, and enabling our partners to transition more successfully to value-based care. To learn more about Novocardia, please visit www.novocardiahealth.com.

Founded in 1960 by Dr. Bernard Silverstein, My Cardiologist is dedicated to providing excellence in cardiac care to all patients, striving to make state-of-the-art technology accessible. Additionally, our doctors and staff pride themselves on delivering respectful and individualized care to each person, continuing the tradition of superior and personalized patient care. To learn more about My Cardiologist, please visit www.mycardiologist.com.

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