Citizen Suburban Times Weekly (CST) 6-7-2023

Illinois State Superintendent of Education Tony Sanders is encouraging public and nonpublic organizations to apply for funding to expand the availability of preschool in areas of the state that are currently underserved. He is pictured in his Springfield office. (CAPITOL NEWS ILLINOIS

PHOTO BY PETER HANCOCK)

New state laws taking effect Jan. 1

Minimum wage hike, pets in public housing among new changes

State board of education looking for new providers in preschool ‘deserts’

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.

Agency looks to open 5,000 new slots in underserved communities

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 – Even though Gov. JB Pritzker has yet to sign the budget bill lawmakers just passed, the Illinois State Board of Education is seeking applicants for some of the new money contained in that bill.

ISBE is looking for new providers to offer preschool programs in areas of the state designated as “preschool deserts,” with the goal of creating 5,000 new preschool slots in the upcoming school year.

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.

Other new laws include:

The $75 million in new funding available for new preschool slots this year is part of Pritzker’s $250 million “Smart Start Illinois” initiative, a four-year effort that seeks to make early childhood day care and preschool available and affordable to every family in the state who needs it.

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.

That will bring the state’s total funding for early childhood block grants to just over $673 million.

“We are wanting to make sure that every community is aware that these grants are available,” State Superintendent of Education Tony Sanders said in a recent interview. “We want to make sure that school districts know. We want to make sure that day care centers, religious organizations, community-based organizations – that anybody that might serve children in pre-K opportunities knows about these opportunities and can apply.”

ISBE defines a preschool desert as an area where there is an insufficient number of publicly funded slots to serve at least 80 percent of 3- and 4-year-old children from low-income families.

regions, counties and ZIP codes – in the state that meet that definition. Each has a gap of 15 or more seats. Of those, 108 districts show a 100 percent need, meaning there are as many needed seats as there are priority eligible children. Those areas have a combined 5,100 needed seats.

The grants will fund the creation of new programs as well as the expansion of existing programs with priority being given to applicants who serve children in preschool deserts outside the city of Chicago, which has a separate appropriation for early childhood programs.

The grants provide funding for three programs:

• Preschool for All, which is 2.5 hours per day of preschool for 3-5-year-olds with licensed teachers and a standards-aligned curriculum.

• Preschool for All Expansion, which offers five hours of preschool per day along with physical and mental health services for 3-5-year-olds in the highest need communities.

• Prevention Initiative, which offers child development and family support services for expectant parents and families with children from birth to age 3 who are at risk of academic challenges.

ISBE has developed a website that offers information about the grant programs and technical assistance for potential applicants. Applications are open to public entities as well as private nonprofit and for-profit organizations. Applications are due no later than 4 p.m. on June 14.

Darrell Garth President / Publisher

Darrell President / Publisher

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Janice Garth Sales Manager/General Manager

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Janice Garth Sales Manager/ General Manager

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.

“And you find them everywhere, from Belvedere to Springfield to Shawnee, all the way down in southern Illinois,” Sanders said.

The agency has identified 196 areas – including district

Capitol News Illinois is a nonprofit, nonpartisan news service covering state government. It is distributed to hundreds of print and broadcast outlets statewide. It is funded primarily by the Illinois Press Foundation and the Robert R. McCormick Foundation, along with major contributions from the Illinois Broadcasters Foundation and Southern Illinois Editorial Association.

Ballmer Group, New Profit and Echoing Green Announce New Initiative to Invest in Black Led Nonprofit Organizations

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.

Editorial:

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

New York -- Ballmer Group, Echoing Green, and New Profit announce $40M in seed funding for a new initiative to address the systemic funding gap for Black-led nonprofit organizations in the U.S. The grant will fund a five-year initiative to build leadership and sustainability of Black-led organizations focused on economic mobility. Over 100 Black-led organizations will receive both capital and operational support to help spur innovative solutions and provide Black leaders with the tools that they need to scale and achieve their missions over the long term.

“The goal of this initiative is to address an undercapitalized market and invest in Black leadership to spur innovation and improve economic mobility,” said Eshauna Smith, Director of Community Impact at Ballmer Group. “Industry leaders New Profit and Echoing Green come to the table with a combined 60 years of experience supporting founders and emerging leaders and shaping economic mobility in the U.S. The good news is that race-based funding gaps are addressable. There are incredible opportunities for funders like us to step up, and we are excited to take this first step.”

of philanthropic funding. A recent study by Echoing Green and the Bridgespan Group shows that the funding received is smaller and more likely to be restricted than white-led organizations. Data shows that early-stage Black-led nonprofits have 24% smaller overall revenues and 76% smaller unrestricted net assets, indicators of continued bias and lack of trust in Black leaders in the funding landscape.

“Despite the disparity in funding for Black-led organizations, there is no shortage of visionary Black leaders who are joining with their communities to build new systems of opportunity in America,” said Tulaine Montgomery, Co-CEO of New Profit. “This support from Ballmer Group allows us to help advance the impact of those leaders, who are grounded in and guided by the assets, expertise, and brilliance of their constituents and communities.”

Pritzker is shown here earlier this year in a Capitol News Illinois file photo. The governor signed more than 300 bills that become law on Jan. 1. (Capitol News Illinois file photo)

to the appropriate school support personnel.

The initiative takes a two-part strategy to help grow Blackled organizations past the start-up and middle growth phases where too often lack of capital limits scale.

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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

Funding disparities limit access to capital for Black founders and leaders. “The troubling pattern of Black nonprofit leaders being unable to scale organizations is overwhelmingly due to limited access to capital compared. For these brilliant leaders and their timely innovations, we need to increase their ability to scale appropriately,” Echoing Green President Cheryl Dorsey notes. “That means transformative community-led solutions are left to languish on the vine. This grant from Ballmer Group will enable us to simultaneously sustain proximate leadership and spur economic mobility among an undercapitalized and often overlooked demographic.”

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

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.

Despite making up around 10% of nonprofit leadership in the U.S., Black and Latine nonprofit leaders only receive 4%

Lemonade stands: SB119 prohib-

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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.

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

Echoing Green will utilize the Ballmer Group funding to support organizations under two years old. Black-led start-up organizations have significant challenges raising initial capital. Echoing Green’s model is designed to provide both early investment and follow-on-funding to overlooked talent with ongoing assistance in the areas of fundraising, strategic planning, board development and operational practices. These foundational supports are key to creating sustainable enterprises.

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

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.

New Profit will use the funding from Ballmer Group to support proof-of-concept through early-scale nonprofits. Blackled organizations at these stages of enterprise development often have the potential to create outsized impact but face systemic barriers in securing the flexible resourc

2022 ACLS Digital Justice Seed Grantees work on a podcast for their project “Building an Institute for Empathic Immersive Narrative” at Virginia Polytechnic Institute & State University. American Council of Learned Societies.

Mellon Foundation Awards $3.3 Million to American Council of Learned Societies

NEW YORK, PRNewswire -- The American Council of Learned Societies (ACLS) has been awarded a $3.3 million grant by the Mellon Foundation to continue its Digital Justice Grant Program. The extension grant will support the program for an additional three competition cycles, beginning with the next competition which will start accepting applications in September 2023.

Launched in 2021, the ACLS Digital Justice Grant Program supports digital projects across the humanities and interpretative social sciences that engage with the interests and histories of people of color and other historically marginalized communities. Specifically, the program addresses persistent inequities in access to tools and support for digital work among these scholars, those working with non-traditional materials, and those based at higher education institutions with fewer resources available to support humanists working with digital techniques. This new iteration of the program will also seek to fund projects that engage in capacity building efforts, including but not limited to: pedagogical projects that train students in digital humanities methods as a key feature of the project’s content building practice; publicly engaged projects that develop new technological infrastructure with community partners; and trans-institutional projects that connect scholars across academic and cultural heritage institutions.

“The ACLS Digital Justice Grant Program provides critical support and resources to scholars in fields that challenge the historical legacies of settler colonialism, racial capitalism, and heteronormativity,” said Keyanah Nurse, ACLS Program Officer for Higher Education Initiatives. “These grants stimulate more inclusivity within digital humanities by extending the opportunity to a broader assemblage of scholars and projects, many of whom navigate weak infrastructural support. With an added emphasis on capacity building, we hope this new iteration gives reviewers a more nuanced understanding of the contexts in which scholars at less resourced institutions pursue their work.”

The ACLS Digital Justice Program will continue to offer both Seed and Development

Foot Locker Foundation Announces $4.5 Million for Community Grants through LISC

NEW YORK, PRNewswire -- Foot Locker, Inc. and its U.S. grant-making partner, the Local Initiatives Support Corporation (LISC), are building upon their collaboration to empower youth in underserved communities with $4.5 million in new funding. The funding will support three annual grant application rounds for U.S.-based nonprofits delivering youth programming in the areas of community mentoring, career development, and health and wellness activities.

The Foot Locker Foundation Community Empowerment Program was launched in 2021 as part of Leading in Education and Economic Development (LEED), the company’s $200 million commitment focused on education and economic development within the Black community. It also connects to LISC’s broad-based work on economic opportunity, including its decade-long Project 10X strategy to promote racial justice. Through its first two years, the competitive grant program has awarded $2.7 million in grants to 36 organizations.

Grants to promote and provide vital resources for projects that diversify the digital domain, advance justice and equity in digital scholarly practice, and contribute to public understanding of racial and social justice issues. For exploratory, experimental, and other early-stage work, Digital Justice Seed Grants will offer $10,000-$25,000 to support planning workshops, prototyping, and testing of projects. For projects that have advanced beyond the prototyping or proof-of-concept phase, Digital Justice Development Grants of $50,000 to $100,000 will support activities to enhance impact and promote uptake and engagement among targeted communities of users. As in its pilot year, grantees can also opt into tailored coaching from the Nonprofit Finance Fund to plan for the long-term stewardship and growth of their projects.

Formed a century ago, the American Council of Learned Societies (ACLS) is a nonprofit federation of 79 scholarly organizations. As the leading representative of American scholarship in the humanities and interpretive social sciences, ACLS upholds the core principle that knowledge is a public good. In supporting its member organizations, ACLS utilizes its $155+ million endowment and $37 million annual operating budget to expand the forms, content, and flow of scholarly knowledge, reflecting our commitment to diversity of identity and experience.

ACLS collaborates with institutions, associations, and individuals to strengthen the evolving infrastructure for scholarship. In all aspects of our work, ACLS is committed to principles and practices in support of racial and social justice.

The Andrew W. Mellon Foundation is the nation’s largest supporter of the arts and humanities. Mellon believes that the arts and humanities are where we express our complex humanity, and that everyone deserves the beauty, transcendence, and freedom to be found there. Through its grants, Mellon seeks to build just communities enriched by meaning and empowered by critical thinking, where ideas and imagination can thrive. The Foundation makes grants in four core program areas: Arts and Culture; Higher Learning; Humanities in Place; and Public Knowledge.

Questions? Contact digitaljustice@acls.org.

The application for the next round of funding in the U.S. (for one-year grants expected to be awarded in 2024) is open now through Wednesday, August 30, 2023. Community-based nonprofits in select cities can apply for grants of $25,000 to $100,000. The program prioritizes grassroots organizations that are in a pivotal developmental stage where the funding and available technical assistance support through LISC can help them reach the next level of sustainability and program delivery excellence. Organizations based in and serving the following cities are eligible to apply for these competitive grants: Atlanta, Baltimore, Chicago, Dallas, Detroit, Houston, Los Angeles, New York City, Newark, Oakland, Philadelphia, San Francisco and Washington, D.C.

Applicants should have a track record of impact in one or more of the program’s key objectives: community outreach, particularly focused on youth health and wellness; mentoring around life skills, academics, and conflict resolution; and career development to build skills and pathways to employment.

“As part of our LEED initiative, the partnership with LISC has created tangible results for communities where Foot Locker, Inc. operates,” said Tai Neal, vice president for LEED Strategy at Foot Locker, Inc. “In the first two years of the program, we’ve witnessed the number of young people served increase by nearly 50 percent, with 3,800 impacted in the first round of funding and more than 7,000 in round two,” she continued. “This program disrupts the status quo – unlocking the potential that exists in young people and giving them, their families, and their communities a bridge to a brighter future.”

The Community Empowerment Program responds to clear and persistent racial disparities, including a gap in philanthropic funding for Black-led organizations. For example, research from Bridgespan and Echoing Green found that the unrestricted net assets of Black-led organizations are 76 percent smaller than those of similarly situated white-led groups. Disparities are even more pronounced among organizations that specifically focus on improving life outcomes for Black men and boys: revenues are 45 percent less than they are for white-led organizations and unrestricted net assets are 91 percent smaller—even when white-led organizations have a similar mission.

“These disparities are, in part, the result of decades of overt racism,” said Lisa Glover, LISC CEO. “But there is also an unconscious bias at work, and it has a stranglehold on opportunity for tens of thousands of BIPOC families, organizations, businesses and communities. That’s why this program is so important,” she continued. “It is specifically designed to address these systemic gaps in ways that not only benefit young people, but strengthen the organizations that serve them as well.”

Foot Locker, Inc. is a leading footwear and apparel retailer that unlocks the “inner sneakerhead” in all of us. With approximately 2,700 retail stores in 29 countries across North America, Europe, Asia, Australia, and New Zealand, and a franchised store presence in the Middle East and Asia, Foot Locker, Inc. has a strong history of sneaker authority that sparks discovery and ignites the power of sneaker culture through its portfolio of brands, including Foot Locker, Kids Foot Locker, Champs Sports, WSS, and atmos. For more information, visit footlocker-inc.com.

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 $29.7 billion to create more than 489,000 affordable homes and apartments, develop 81.4 million square feet of retail, community and educational space and help tens of thousands of people find employment and improve their finances. For information on grant guidelines and how to apply, visit tinyurl. com/y5m8mx7n.

Jamaica’s S Hotel and Spanish Court Hotel Recognized as Tripadvisor® 2023 Travelers’ Choice® Award Winners

KINGSTON, Jamaica, PRNewswire

-- S Hotel Jamaica, the all-inclusive boutique hotel in Montego Bay, and sister property Spanish Court Hotel in Kingston, have been recognized as Tripadvisor Travelers’ Choice 2023 award winners. Celebrating businesses that have consistently received great reviews on Tripadvisor over the last 12 months, these winners are among the top 10% of all global listings. S Hotel Jamaica, listed in the Best of the Best among the top 25 All-Inclusive Hotels in the Caribbean, which is presented annually to those businesses that consistently earn excellent reviews and are ranked in the top 1% of properties worldwide.

“The Tripadvisor Travelers’ Choice Award is tremendous for not only S Hotel and our sister property Spanish Court but also for Jamaica,” said Ann Marie Goffe-Pryce, General Manager of S Hotel Jamaica. “We are also thrilled that S Hotel received the Best of the Best recognition and was included among the top 25 all-inclusive hotels in the Caribbean, especially after our recent shift to an all-inclusive property. While the hotels ranking among the top percentile is a testament to our warm hospitality, we share this award with our guests — we wouldn’t have won without their rave reviews and repeatedly sharing their wonderful experiences.”

“Congratulations to the 2023 Tri-

padvisor Travelers’ Choice winners,” said John Boris, Chief Growth Officer at Tripadvisor. “The travel resurgence we’ve seen throughout the past year has even further heightened the competition. Earning a Travelers’ Choice Award demonstrates that you have provided great experiences to those who matter most: your guests. With changing expectations, continued labor shortages, and rising costs, this is no easy feat, and I am continually impressed with the hospitality industry’s resilience and ability to adapt. Cheers to another successful year!”

S Hotel Jamaica welcomes ages 16 and over and offers an array of culinary options, wellness amenities, guest experiences and local excursions, and the 125-room Spanish Court Hotel in Jamaica’s culture capital, features the popular Rojo Restaurant highlighting a variety of Jamaican and international cuisine, The Sky Terrace and Bar with stunning views of the city, and more. Continually adding various offerings to successfully differentiate the properties in this very competitive market and creating a truly memorable experience for their guests is why S Hotel and Spanish Court Hotel are favorites among travelers.

Discover more about S Hotel Jamaica at www.crissahotels.com/s-hotel-jamaica/ and Spanish Court Hotel at www. crissahotels.com/spanish-court-hotel/.

PRNewsFoto

AlUla’s Jabal Ikmah recognized for its documentary heritage in chronicling the evolution of Old Arabic Languages

ALULA, Saudi Arabia, PRNewswire -- The Royal Commission for AlUla (RCU)’s efforts to conserve the region’s documentary heritage have been acknowledged with the listing of Jabal Ikmah on UNESCO’s Memory of the World Register.

The spectacular mountain and its sandstone canyons feature more than 300 historically significant carved inscriptions, most of which date from the second half of the first millennium BCE. The site features the largest collection of inscriptions recording the ancient Dadanite Kingdom’s religious rituals, daily activities, and relations with neighboring peoples.

As part of its role in delivering Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, RCU is heavily investing in the study and conservation of sites such as Jabal Ikmah, an open-air library situated in the world’s largest living museum. These efforts to enhance the world’s understanding of Jabal Ikmah, while improving visitors’ access in a sustainable way, have contributed to this public affirmation by UNESCO of the magnitude and international significance of AlUla’s documentary heritage.

José Ignacio Gallego Revilla, Executive Director of the Kingdoms Institute, Archaeology, Heritage Research, and Conservation Department at the Royal Commission for AlUla, said: “The significance of Jabal Ikmah’s inscriptions transcends regional boundaries to reach the level of global

relevance, in particular as part of the evolution of Old Arabic languages and dialects. Their authenticity and integrity, both for the information preserved about ancient societies as well as the conservation of the site, bring together the essentials that make this place unique for the Memory of the World as the chronicle of a lost time through the largest number of inscriptions in an Ancient North Arabian script.”

As a crossroads on the incense and pilgrimage routes, the AlUla oasis was a hub of commercial and cultural exchange. It hosted merchants of myrrh, frankincense, and other precious commodities. This cultural richness propelled the growth of settlements, including Dadan. The Dadanite Kingdom flourished and developed its own alphabet form of the South Semitic writing system. The Dadanites then recorded their history through petroglyphs carved into the sloping red and yellow sandstone rocks of AlUla. The greatest concentration of inscriptions is sheltered in the gorge of Jabal Ikmah, which is characteristic of AlUla’s jagged landscape formed by tectonic movements that date to the opening of the Red Sea 30 million years ago.

Many of Jabal Ikmah’s inscriptions reflect a variety of subjects such as rituals, kings, animals and agriculture, key to the story of AlUla’s past. Conservation of such landmarks is central to RCU’s vision for the future of AlUla, which emphasizes the region’s cultural heritage as both a beacon for tourism and a springboard for innovation and economic

benefits that raise the quality of life for the community.

The listing builds on RCU’s existing partnership with UNESCO. RCU’s global network of partners for culture, which also includes ICOMOS, the Louvre Museum and the French Agency for the Development of AlUla (Afalula), plays a vital role in the regeneration of AlUla County as a leading global destination for cultural and natural heritage.

RCU is establishing the Kingdoms Institute as a global hub for archaeology, heritage research and conservation. Currently active as a research organisation, the institute will have a permanent base in the Dadan district of AlUla, a site that by 2035 is expected to be a prime destination for two million visitors a year attracted largely by its rich heritage.

The Royal Commission for AlUla (RCU) was established by royal decree in July 2017 to preserve and develop AlUla, a region of outstanding natural and cultural significance in north-west Saudi Arabia. RCU’s long-term plan outlines a responsible, sustainable, and sensitive approach to urban and economic development that preserves the area’s natural and historic heritage while establishing AlUla as a desirable location to live, work, and visit. This encompasses a broad range of initiatives across archaeology, tourism, culture, education, and the arts, reflecting a commitment to meeting the economic diversification, local community empowerment, and heritage preservation priorities of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 programme.

Geoffrey Good’s Hex Collection Explores the Beauty of Sacred Geometry

New York, NY -- The potential for life is a prominent symbol of the familiar and ancient hexagon. An awe-inspiring shape throughout nature, its symmetrical six sides create balance and harmony: connecting angles, edges, and vertices in a variety of combinations. A classic shape, the hexagon is strong—it fills the area given with no wasted space and holds much weight. This attribute of strength has made the hexagon a staple for the construction of perfect vessels. An homage to the hexagon, its geometric sublimity has inspired the Geoffrey Good Hex Collection.

Fine Jewelry Designer and Goldsmith, Geoffrey Good, says, “The hexagon is prevalent in the natural world in things such as crystal structures, yet also used extensively in the man-made industrial world. I can’t think of a better example of form and function meeting perfectly.”

The Hex Collection takes inspiration from classic diamond looks, modifying and reimagining to incorporate and celebrate the hexagon shape. The Hex Bevel Diamond Pendant Necklace has a 1 ct. round diamond set within a hexagon-shaped setting, featuring 24 diamonds in a halo, and an 18 in. chain with a lobster clasp is available in either 18K yellow gold or platinum. It offers an unexpected edginess to the classic pendant necklace. The Hex Bevel Diamond Studs complement the pendant necklace, as a timeless staple meeting modern design. With an 8 mm width, each half carat center diamond of each earring is outlined with 18 smaller diamonds, in a bevel set hexagon, approximating 1.21 cts. for the pair, available in either 18K yellow gold or platinum. The Hex Bevel Stacking Rings have a hexagon shape, with diamond pave set along the side of the rings. Comfortable for everyday wear, the higher the stack, the more provocative the look. One ring can be worn solo, or multiple rings can be piled, depending on one’s mood.

Reinterpreting space to create minimalist luxury, Geoffrey Good developed Hex Collection jewels with heft— hexagonal cross-section pieces, with a bezel set diamond within an open hex end shape. Unisex and sexy, the rings are luxurious and inviting. The Original Hex Stacking Ring has an angled notch with 1.5 mm of fine diamonds, three slightly separated bars, and is 2.5 mm width, available in either

With “Together We Shine,” Coppertone and GirlTrek Partner to Promote Sun Safety and Wellness for Black Women

18K yellow gold or platinum. Good’s modified ring celebrates the unification of the hexagon’s creation and perfection through its geometric features. The Hex Bar Eternity Band Narrow (7mm) consists of hex bars forged together with 44 fine diamonds on each mitered end, and is available in either 18K yellow gold or platinum. The Hex Bar Eternity Band Wide (14mm) also consists of hex bars forged together with 44 fine diamonds on each mitered end, and is available in 18K yellow gold or platinum. Both eternity bands are a symbol of strength, with hexagon bars encircling the finger. The Hex Bar Diamond Bracelet has an elongated hex bar that elegantly envelopes the wrist, spring-loaded on the side, featuring a single diamond on each terminal. From the office to a cocktail party, Hex is innovative, while still wearable and comfortable.

“From a philosophical perspective the six sides of the hexagon represent perfection, symbolizing divine power, wisdom, majesty, love, mercy, and justice. Jewelers are always chasing that ever elusive (and frankly unattainable) idea of perfection. The hexagon is also an impossible shape to draw freehand perfectly, which is a small but constant lesson in humility,” says Geoffrey Good.

The Hex Collection embodies the strength and structure of the hexagon with contemporary design. As a symbol of balance and harmony, the pieces are perfect for a commitment or wedding jewelry, as for celebrating a milestone or oneself. Timeless and true, the Hex Collection allows for individuality to meet luxury.

Geoffrey’s eclectic aesthetic fuses rebellious creativity with unparalleled craftsmanship; discovery is balanced by respect for the past and the legacy of his classical training. Dedicating years on Madison Avenue to refine his skills, Geoffrey Good created jewelry for celebrated firms and institutions, before founding his own workshop. The atelier develops commissions for award shows, collaborates with fashion designers, partners on one-of-a-kind private clients, and has signature collections featured nationally in select retailers. Geoffrey Good’s vibrant flagship is located downtown, in the art scene destination of Hudson, New York.

To learn more about Geoffrey Good, call 212-625-1656 or visit https://www.geoffreygood.com/.

New Initiative advances

sun

(Black PR Wire) Stamford, CT – Coppertone, a trusted name in sun protection, is proud to announce, “Together We Shine,” a sun health literacy and engagement program designed to meet the needs of multicultural consumers. Coppertone is partnering with GirlTrek, a nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting health and wellness through walking for Black women and girls. Together, they will promote a ‘wellness while walking’ message, improving sun safety and skin health awareness, while also advocating for physical activity in Black communities.

With a shared commitment to community empowerment and wellness, “Together We Shine” will focus on increasing awareness and education around the importance of sun protection for Black women who are at risk of developing sun damage and skin cancer. According to the Skin Cancer Foundation, Black patients are more than 3x as likely to be diagnosed with melanoma at a late stage than non-Hispanic white patients. The partnership will also encourage and support outdoor physical activity through the GirlTrek movement, which promotes walking as a simple, accessible form of exercise that can improve overall health and well-being.

“We’re thrilled to partner with GirlTrek at the start of sun season to raise awareness among Black women about the importance of sun protection,” said Rachael Field, Senior Brand Manager, Coppertone. “By offering new Every Tone sunscreen and dermatological health resources, we hope to have a positive impact on the journey of Black women’s health.”

GirlTrek Co-Founder Vanessa Garrison added, “We’re excited to see our community of Black women and girls continue to embrace sunscreen use as they’ll, in turn, influence others to adopt this healthy habit. We appreciate Coppertone’s support which will allow us to provide resources and education to our community around sun safety and physical activity, two critical areas.”

Coppertone is committed to designing inclusive, innovative products that meet a wide range of needs so that everyone can feel encouraged to seize the sun and see why It’s Great Outdoors. “Together We Shine” pro motes sun safety in multicultural communities in partnership with non-profit organizations who share Coppertone’s mission and vision. For more information, please visit www.coppertone.com.

Geoffrey Good

Coppertone’s mission of inclusivity so everyone can seize the

Biden-Harris Administration Takes Action to Help Schools Deliver Critical Health Care Services to Millions of Students

On the Mental Health Awareness Day of Action, the Biden-Harris Administration took bold action to make it easier for schools to provide critical health care services, especially mental health services, for millions of students across the nation. These three significant actions support President Biden’s comprehensive national mental health strategy and deliver on his commitment to tackle the nation’s mental health crisis as part of his Unity Agenda. Through a series of new announcements from the U.S. Departments of Education (ED) and Health and Human Services (HHS), the Administration is continuing to take a whole-of-government approach to meet families where they are and ensure that children have access to the health care they need – especially mental health services.

Specifically, ED is proposing a new rule that would streamline Medicaid billing permissions for students with disabilities. ED predicts of the 500,000 new students who are found eligible under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) Part B each year, nearly 300,000 are likely to be eligible for Medicaid and impacted by this rule. HHS is issuing new guidance to make it easier for schools to bill Medicaid. HHS also is approving requests from New Mexico and Oregon to expand health care services that schools can deliver to Medicaid enrolled students.

IDEA Act Notice of Proposed Rulemaking

ED is releasing a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking under IDEA that would streamline consent provisions when billing for Medicaid services provided through a student’s individualized education program (IEP). This would result in a uniform process applicable to all Medicaid enrolled children, regardless of disability.

Many children with disabilities receiving services under the IDEA are also enrolled in Medicaid either due to their disability status and/or based on their family income. Children with disabilities and are more likely to have low income, and those covered by Medicaid are more likely to have greater health care needs than those who are covered by private insurance. Further, the COVID-19 pandemic reduced access to critical services for children with disabilities and other vulnerable populations. To meet the Administration’s goal of increasing access to health and mental health services, and in fulfillment of the Bipartisan Safer Communities Act (BSCA) provision of expanding access to crucial school-based services for mental health and other care needs, it is crucial to remove barriers for schools so they can more easily provide Medicaid covered services to their students enrolled in Medicaid..

Importantly, the proposed changes announced today do not alter any of the critical parental consent provisions required by IDEA nor do they impact the parental consent obligations under the Family Educational Records and Privacy Act (FERPA). Additionally, the proposed rule does not alter the requirement that IEP services must be delivered at no cost to the child’s family, the requirement that IEP services cannot diminish other Medicaid-reimbursable services, nor Medicaid’s position as payor of first resort for IEP and Individualized Family Service Plan services. Rather, this regulatory change would help cut unnecessary red tape that schools and districts face in billing Medicaid and meet their obligations to ensure students with disabilities receive a free, appropriate public education in accordance with their IEP.

Guide to Expand School-Based Services for Millions of Students

HHS, through the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) is releasing a comprehensive guide for Medicaid school-based services to make it easier for schools to deliver and receive payment for health care services to millions of eligible students. Developed in consultation with ED, the Comprehensive Guide to Medicaid Services and Administrative Claiming represents an important part of the Biden-Harris Administration’s implementation of the BSCA.

Medicaid and CHIP cover more than half of all children in this country. That’s more than 41 million children spending over 30 hours weekly in school during most of the year. This comprehensive policy guide helps states and schools leverage Medicaid and CHIP and offers a roadmap of how they can build a bridge between education and health care, including mental health care, to support children enrolled in these programs and help them thrive.

The guide clarifies, consolidates, and expands on a wealth of CMS guidance on how schools can receive payment for providing care for Medicaid- and CHIP-enrolled students, and how states can ease the administrative burden on school-based health providers to promote their participation in Medicaid and CHIP while meeting federal statutory and regulatory requirements. This includes helping states and schools operationalize:

How payments can be made for school-based services under Medicaid and CHIP;

How states can simplify billing for school-based services, including in rural and small or under-resourced communities, where care may be particularly challenging.

Examples of approved methods that state agencies have used to pay for covered services; and

How to enroll qualified health care providers to participate in Medicaid and furnish services within school settings.

In the months to come, CMS plans to release more resources to help ensure states can optimize children’s access to school-based services. As outlined by BSCA, these resources include $50 million in grant opportunities and a school-based services technical assistance center, in partnership with ED. For more information on the guide, visit Medicaid.gov.

These announcements collectively are part of the Biden-Harris Administration’s commitment to addressing the nation’s mental health crisis by providing more school-based resources and supports to help address students’ mental health needs. This announcement comes on the heels of ED’s announcement earlier this week on the latest tranche of awards to train school-based mental health professionals through the Mental Health Service Professionals demonstration program, which provided another nearly $100 million in awards as part of an overall appropriation of $1 billion in BSCA for school-based mental health services and supports.

The Pattis Family Foundation and the Newberry Library Announce 2023 Chicago Book Award Recipient

CHICAGO, PRNewswire -- The Newberry Library and The Pattis Family Foundation are pleased to announce the winner of the second annual $25,000 Pattis Family Foundation Chicago Book Award. Toya Wolfe, author of Last Summer on State Street, will receive the award, which celebrates works that transform public understanding of Chicago, its history, and its people.

“Toya Wolfe’s debut novel is an endearing, memorable, and page-turning work with broad appeal and deep ‘Chicago heart,’” said Daniel Greene, former President and Librarian of the Newberry and Pattis Award jury member. “Set during an important turning point in the history of public housing in Chicago, Last Summer on State Street is a compelling story of friendship, community, and home.”

“It is such an incredible blessing to receive the Pattis Family Foundation Chicago Book Award,” said Toya Wolfe. “Last Summer on State Street is my debut novel, and to win a prestigious award for my first literary endeavor is wildly affirming and will support me as I begin writing a new novel and TV pilots. I am so grateful to The Pattis Family Foundation and the Newberry Library for establishing this award; on behalf of Chicago writers, thank you for all the ways in which you lift us up and cheer us on!”

The Pattis Family Foundation Chicago Book Award is open to writers working in a variety of genres, including history, biography, social sciences, poetry, drama, graphic novels, and fiction—all relating to Chicago. Dawn Turner received the inaugural Pattis Award in 2022 for Three Girls from Bronzeville.

In addition to awarding Toya Wolfe, the juried panel also recognizes Heather Hendershot as the shortlist award recipient for authoring When the News Broke: Chicago 1968 and the Polarizing of America. Hendershot will receive an award of $2,500.

Mark and Lisa Pattis of The Pattis Family Foundation commented: “The purpose of our series of book awards is to shine a spotlight on exemplary books and to enhance

public understanding of various subject matters. We are delighted to continue our partnership with the Newberry Library in order to engage Chicagoans with authors and works that transform understanding of our city, its history, and its people. The selection of Toya Wolfe’s poignant debut novel, Last Summer on State Street, is a terrific fit with the prize’s goal. Our congratulations to Toya and our gratitude to the Newberry and the committee members.”

The presentation of the 2023 Pattis Family Foundation Chicago Book Award takes place at a free, public event

Chicago Housing Authority. She and two other girls from the housing project form a tentative trio and carve out for themselves a simple life of double Dutch and innocence. As their beloved neighborhood falls down around them, so too do their friendships and the structures of their families. Decades later, as she remembers that fateful summer — just before her home was demolished, her life uprooted, and community forever changed—Fe Fe tries to make sense of the grief and fraught bonds that still haunt her and attempts to reclaim the love that never left.

Profound, reverent, and uplifting, Last Summer on State Street explores the risk of connection against the backdrop of racist institutions, the restorative power of knowing and claiming one’s own past, and those defining relationships which form the heartbeat of our lives. Interweaving moments of reckoning and sustaining grace, debut author Toya Wolfe has crafted an era-defining story of finding a home—both in one’s history and in one’s self.

at the Newberry Library on Saturday, July 15, 2023. Toya Wolfe will receive the award and discuss Last Summer on State Street with Gail Kern Paster, Interim President and Librarian at the Newberry. The event will also serve as a celebration of the power of storytelling and Chicago, featuring a roster of speakers whose work in the city strives to change our communities for the better.

Felicia “Fe Fe” Stevens lives with her loving mother and older brother in Chicago’s Robert Taylor Homes. It’s the summer of 1999, and her high-rise is to be torn down by the

The Newberry Library—free and open to the public—fosters a deeper understanding of our world by inspiring research and learning in the humanities and encouraging conversations about ideas that matter to diverse audiences. The Newberry’s extensive collection includes maps, city directories, printed histories, newspapers and periodicals, and archival materials documenting business, journalism, publishing, activism, and the arts across Chicago and the Midwest. Every year, thousands of writers, artists, scholars, teachers, and students visit the Newberry, contributing to its diverse community of learning.

With a history originating from book and magazine publishing, The Pattis Family Foundation actively supports programs that elevate the value of the written word and intellectual inquiry. In addition, The Pattis Family Foundation supports various health, educational, and cultural initiatives as well as programs that help bridge the opportunity gap for talented students with limited financial resources.

BLACK GIRLS ROCK!® Creator Beverly Bond Introduces BLACK GIRLS BOND®

NEW YORK, PRNewswire -- Renowned founder and CEO of BLACK GIRLS ROCK!®, Beverly Bond, heralds a new era with the grand unveiling of BLACK GIRLS BOND®, an innovative daily digital publication curated for audacious, wellness-conscious, fashion-forward, stylish, enterprising women of color.

As Bond nears the conclusion of her three-year development deal with Black Entertainment Television (BET), she is poised to catapult her illustrious BLACK GIRLS ROCK! brand into a new digital media powerhouse with the launch of this venture that aims to broaden avenues for the visibility of Black women. BLACK GIRLS BOND® is a digital oasis, delivering content ranging from skincare and beauty to health and wellness, style trends, business insights, technological breakthroughs, and pop-culture news. The online hub also boasts captivating digital covers, fashion spreads, and in-depth profiles of game-changing women. Monthly features on Black Hollywood, Black Girl Magic and the entertainment business is where the ‘BOND’ perspective truly shines, with coverage and con-

versations on representation both on-screen and behind the scenes. The recurring ‘More Black, More Beautiful’ cover issue is a testament to the trailblazing Black women shattering boundaries and making a difference in diverse fields. BLACK GIRLS BOND® also features weekly horoscopes, monthly playlists, and signature podcasts that include Bread & Bond, a dinner and conversation series featuring inspirational women sharing stories, and Who Rocks Next? spotlighting emerging talent across disciplines.

“The underrepresentation of Black women in media ownership contributes to a scarcity of diverse experiences and perspectives of Black women across digital and broadcast mediums,” said Beverly Bond. “Having personally witnessed the substantial impact that representation can make, I am thrilled to inaugurate a digital media publication that provides a daily trove of informative and aspirational content that caters to the multifaceted lifestyles of our readers, providing them with the resources necessary to forge balanced and fulfilling lives. I am equally thrilled to harness my vast experience and expertise in fashion, music, and entertainment to build this space. As we launch BLACK GIRLS BOND®, we’re joining an

escalating wave of voices that are magnifying the need for Black-owned and black women-owned media. I feel humbled and privileged to be among those leading this critical evolution.”

BLACK GIRLS BOND® stands proudly as an integral component of the flagship BLACK GIRLS ROCK!® brand carrying forward the esteemed legacy of the movement by nurturing our established community while championing a new generation of dynamic and driven women of color. BLACK GIRLS ROCK!’s expansive portfolio also includes the annual BGR!FEST, The BGR! FILM FESTIVAL, and the critically acclaimed, highly anticipated BLACK GIRLS ROCK!® AWARDS which is set to make a triumphant return in March 2024 during the International Women’s Day Weekend in Washington DC. This prestigious awards show will be broadcasted in collaboration with an exciting new media distribution partner (to be announced) and showcased on the eagerly awaited BGR!TV streaming Network.

BLACK GIRLS BOND® is poised to provide advertisers with fully integrated 360-degree media solutions and has enlisted ad network and technology company Hero Media. ackgirlsbond.com and stay connected with BLACK GIRLS BOND® on social media to receive updates, stories, and exclusive event announcements: Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, LinkedIn.

To learn more about BLACK GIRLS BOND visit: https://blackgirlsbond.com/about-us/

Toya Wolfe, Pattis Award Winner for Last Summer on State Street. The Newberry Library.

BlackGirlsBond.com May 2023 cover.

Black Girls Rock!.

Dial Up Flavor with Summer Favorites

(Family Features) Turn up the heat this summer and spice your way to delicious warm-weather recipes by using subtle ingredients that bring out bold flavors in your favorite foods. Adding a taste-enhancing option to your repertoire – Tajín Fruity Chamoy Sauce – can make your summer get-togethers the talk of the neighborhood.

Cool off while enjoying mildly spicy dishes. Made with 100% natural chiles, lime juice, sea salt and a hint of apricot, Tajín Fruity Chamoy Sauce offers a unique sweetand-spicy flavor without too much heat. Perfect for drizzling over fresh fruits and veggies like mango, pineapple, watermelon and more, it’s also commonly used to bring fruity, subtle spice to a wide variety of recipes including beverages and snacks, like smoothies, mangonadas, ice pops and cold drinks.

For example, in this Savory Mango Chamoy Daiquiri, the apricots create a fruity, tangy flavor that’s a nice, refreshing twist on a traditional drink.

Bringing a touch of heat to summer cookouts can be a breeze with mild hot sauces added to dishes like these Spiced Pork Ribs, which can be created start-to-finish in the oven or taken outside to sear on the grill. Just a handful of ingredients are required to season the ribs to spicy perfection before wrapping them in foil and letting your oven do the work.

The key ingredient for the right touch of subtle heat without being overwhelming is Tajín Mild Hot Sauce, a unique, flavorful addition to your cabinet that pairs well with savory snacks like tortilla chips, chicken wings, pizza and even micheladas. The lime is what makes it different from other hot sauces.

Made with 100% natural mild chiles, lime juice and sea salt without added sugars or coloring, it can be enjoyed by the whole family as a versatile way to enhance favorite foods with a mild but wild flavor.

Both recipes can be easily enhanced with a simple concept: just pair Tajín Clásico seasoning with either or both of the sauces to create unique flavor combinations, a tasty “mix it” tactic to add to your warm-weather menu and make it uniquely yours. Find more recipes that crank up the heat this summer by visiting Tajín.com/us.

Savory Mango Chamoy Daquiri

Total time: 15 minutes

Servings: 2

Rim Glass:

2 tablespoons Tajín Fruity Chamoy Hot Sauce

2 tablespoons Tajín Clásico Seasoning

Drink:

4 tablespoons Tajín Fruity Chamoy Hot Sauce, divided

1 cup frozen mango cubes, plus additional for garnish, divided

1/3 cup natural syrup

3 ice cubes

1/3 cup orange juice

1 tablespoon Tajín Clásico Seasoning, for garnish

To rim glass: Rim glass in chamoy hot sauce then seasoning.

To make drink: Blend 3 tablespoons chamoy hot sauce, mango cubes, syrup, ice cubes and orange juice.

In glass, pour remaining chamoy hot sauce. To serve, garnish with additional mango cubes and sprinkle with seasoning.

Spiced Pork Ribs

Total time: 3 hours, 10 minutes

Servings: 6

2 racks (about 4 pounds) baby back ribs

1/4 cup Tajín Clásíco Seasoning

1/4 cup Tajín Mild Hot Sauce, plus additional for serving, divided

2 tablespoons olive oil

2 tablespoons brown sugar lime wedges, for serving mashed potatoes or steamed rice, for serving (optional)

Rub ribs with seasoning. Marinate at least 4 hours or overnight in refrigerator.

Preheat oven to 300 F. Combine hot sauce, oil and brown sugar; brush over both rib racks.

Line baking sheet with double layer of aluminum foil with

enough overhang to wrap foil around ribs. Lay ribs, bone side down, on foil-lined baking sheet. Wrap foil around ribs and seal. Place on baking sheet. Fill large baking dish or roasting pan with 2 inches of boiling water. Place on lower oven rack to keep ribs moist as they bake. Place ribs on middle oven rack. Bake 2 1/2-3 hours, or until meat is tender and just starting to fall off bone.

Preheat broiler. Unwrap ribs and place on foil-lined baking sheet. Broil 4-6 minutes on middle oven rack, or until lightly charred and caramelized. Serve with lime wedges and additional hot sauce. Serve with mashed potatoes or steamed white rice, if desired.

Lupus Awareness Campaign Empowers Black/African American and Hispanic/Latina Women to Stop Ignoring Symptoms That Could Be Lupus-Related

WASHINGTON, PRNewswire -- The Lupus Foundation of America (LFA) launched the rebranded Be Fierce.Take Control.™ campaign during Lupus Awareness Month with rebranded imagery to connect with young Black/African American and Hispanic/Latina Women at greater risk of developing lupus in their lifetime. The campaign empowers women to take control of their health, highlights common lupus symptoms and encourages those that may be experiencing symptoms to talk to their healthcare providers.

Lupus is a chronic autoimmune disease where the immune system can’t tell the difference between healthy tissues and foreign invaders. This can cause pain, inflammation and tissue damage to any organ in the body, and it impacts each person differently making it difficult to diagnose.

Be Fierce. Take Control.™ is a digital awareness campaign that aims to reach young, undiagnosed, Black/African American and Hispanic/ Latina women who may be experiencing common lupus symptoms such as:

Joint pain or swelling

Extreme exhaustion

A rash across the face

Recurring sores in the mouth

The primary goal of the Be Fierce. Take Control. campaign, which is funded in part by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, is to ultimately reduce the average time for diagnosis of six years from when a person first notices symptoms. Lupus

is two-to-three times more prevalent in Black/African American and Hispanic/Latina women. Because of these disparities and the impact of lupus on the body, the LFA encourages women experiencing these symptoms to stop ignoring them and talk to their healthcare provider. Early diagnosis and treatment

lupus warrior and Be Fierce. Take Control. campaign ambassador. “Not knowing what my future holds worries me sometimes, but I prioritize my health and take control of the condition and the effects it has on me. ‘Be Fierce. Take Control.’ is my personal slogan as well.”

The campaign website and digital advertising has been rebranded with powerful imagery of real women with lupus and women who have a personal connection to lupus. Like Selena, these women also share details of their personal lupus journey, providing a sense of connection for women learning more about common lupus symptoms and wondering if they have lupus.

The LFA encourages women experiencing symptoms to visit befiercetakecontrol.org and learn more about lupus, what questions to ask yourself, and how to have a conversation with your healthcare provider.

are critical to preventing long-term consequences of the disease and improving quality of life.

“Six months prior to my diagnosis, I had recurring skin infections and a rash across my cheeks that I mistook for sunburn. I was also experiencing hair loss and body swelling. I was finally diagnosed with lupus nephritis after an ER visit, three doctors visits and a kidney biopsy,” said Selena Colon,

The Lupus Foundation of America is the national force devoted to solving the mystery of lupus, one of the world’s cruelest, most unpredictable and devastating diseases, while giving caring support to those who suffer from its brutal impact. Through a comprehensive program of research, education, and advocacy, we lead the fight to improve the quality of life for all people affected by lupus. Learn more about the Lupus Foundation of America at lupus.org. For the latest news and updates, follow us on Twitter and Facebook.

Black Women’s Health Imperative Celebrates 40 Years of Empowering Black Women with inaugural State of Black Women Science Summit and Homecoming Tour

ATLANTA, PRNewswire -- In celebration of its forty years as the only national organization focused on Black women’s health and wellness, BWHI will return to its local chapter roots this fall, hosting large-scale “homecoming”-themed celebrations designed to educate, empower, and advocate on behalf of Black women and girls’ health and wellness.

These events will be a true celebration of everyday Black women, their achievements and contributions, and a reflection on the continued work necessary to improve the health outcomes of Black women.

“Our organization has dedicated itself to eliminating barriers to health and wellness for Black women nationwide for 40 years. We will celebrate our four decades of work by bringing some of the leading women of color in the fight for health equity to your doorsteps with our upcoming multi-city tour. We are truly honored to have sustained and grown since our founding and are excited to continue to raise awareness, provide programs, tools, and resources, as well as empower and inspire our nation’s Black women and girls,” said Linda Goler Blount, MPH, President of BWHI.

The BWHI “homecoming” celebrations, with the theme “40 Years of Loving Black Women,” will take place from Sept. 22-Oct. 20, 2023, featuring in-person gatherings for the BWHI community in Atlanta, Boston, Detroit, Washington

DC/Philadelphia Metro region, and Los Angeles.

This milestone is a testament to the unwavering commitment of BWHI’s team, partners, and supporters toward achieving health equity for Black women. The tour will serve as an opportunity to reflect on the organization’s accomplishments and highlight the ongoing work of improving health outcomes for Black women. We invite all our supporters to join us in celebrating this remarkable milestone as we continue to work towards a healthier future for all.

Each event will bring together a large number of past and present board members, staff, grass-roots activists, participants in BWHI signature programs, renowned musicians, actors, and entertainers, as well as BWHI’s esteemed founder, reproductive justice and civil rights trailblazer, Byllye Y. Avery.

As part of its 40th anniversary celebrations, BWHI plans to hold its inaugural health and wellness summit for Black women, called the State of Black Women (SOBW). The summit will occur at Spelman College in Atlanta, where BWHI was founded. This conference will feature keynote speakers from the scientific and medical communities, and select panel discussions. The panels will cover various topics related to Black women’s current status and where they can go in the future, including discussions on the economy, politics, health, and education. BWHI’s State of Black Women convening aims to bring togeth-

citizennewspapergroup.com citizennewspapergroup.com

er experts to discuss and address the challenges and opportunities facing Black women today. Spelman President Dr. Helene D. Gayle will make the opening comments.

“We are proud to be the founding home of such a reputable and life-changing organization as BWHI,” Spelman President Dr. Helene D. Gayle states. “Spelman College has a goal to provide the best education and resources for women of color, and our partnership with BWHI on its inaugural State of Black Women Symposium aligns with our core mission to help lead the charge towards educating, preparing, uplifting, and empowering Black women.”

Established originally as the National Black Women’s Health Project in 1983, the Black Women’s Health Imperative is the first and only national non-profit organization created for and by Black women dedicated to improving the health and wellness of our nation’s 21 million Black women and girls—physically, emotionally, and financially. BWHI’s core mission is to advance health equity and reproductive and social justice for Black women across their lifespan through policy, advocacy, education, research, and leadership development. For more information, please visit www. bwhi.org.

Registration for science summit and homecoming events available at: http://bwhi. org/tickets

Newly rebranded campaign includes powerful imagery of real women with lupus who share their story

PRNewsFoto/Lupus Foundation of America

REALESTATE

AC 6-7-2023

IN THE CIRCUITCOURTOF COOK COUNTY, ILLINOIS COUNTYDEPARTMENT- CHANCERYDIVISION SERVIS ONE, INC. DBABSI FINANCIALSERVICES Plaintiff, -v.- RENACUNNINGHAM, KENNYATTASOUTHALL, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA- SECRETARYOF HOUSING AND URBAN DEVELOPMENT, LAKE LYNWOOD MARINAHOMES ASSOCIATION, INC.

Defendants 2022 CH 11989 19605 LAKE PARK DRIVE LYNWOOD, IL 60411 NOTICE OF SALE PUBLIC NOTICE IS HEREBYGIVEN that pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered in the above cause on March 3, 2023, an agent for The Judicial Sales Corporation, will at 10:30 AM on July 17, 2023, at The Judicial Sales Corporation, One South Wacker, 1st Floor Suite 35R, Chicago, IL, 60606, sell at a public sale to the highest bidder, as set forth below, the following described real estate: Commonly known as 19605 LAKE PARK DRIVE, LYNWOOD, IL60411 Property Index

No. 33-07-206-022-0000 The real estate is improved with a single family residence. Sale terms: 25% down of the highest bid by certified funds at the close of the sale payable to The Judicial Sales Corporation. No third party checks will be accepted. The balance, in certified funds/or wire transfer, is due within twenty-four (24) hours. The subject property is subject to general real estate taxes, special assessments, or special taxes levied against said real estate and is offered for sale without any representation as to quality or quantity of title and without recourse to Plaintiff and in "AS IS" condition. The sale is further subject to confirmation by the court. Upon payment in full of the amount bid, the purchaser will receive a Certificate of Sale that will entitle the purchaser to a deed to the real estate after confirmation of the sale. Where a sale of real estate is made to satisfy a lien prior to that of the United States, the United States shall have one year from the date of sale within which to redeem, except that with respect to a lien arising under the internal revenue laws the period shall be 120 days or the period allowable for redemption under State law, whichever is longer, and in any case in which, under the provisions of section 505 of the Housing Act of 1950, as amended (12 U.S.C. 1701k), and subsection (d) of section 3720 of title 38 of the United States Code, the right to redeem does not arise, there shall be no right of redemption. The property will NOTbe open for inspection and plaintiff makes no representation as to the condition of the property. Prospective bidders are admonished to check the court file to verify all information. If this property is a condominium unit, the purchaser of the unit at the foreclosure sale, other than a mortgagee, shall pay the assessments and the legal fees required by The Condominium Property Act, 765 ILCS 605/9(g)(1) and (g)(4). If this property is a condominium unit which is part of a common interest community, the purchaser of the unit at the foreclosure sale other than a mortgagee shall pay the assessments required by The Condominium Property Act, 765 ILCS 605/18.5(g-1). IF YOU ARE THE MORTGAGOR (HOMEOWNER), YOU HAVE THE RIGHTTO REMAIN IN POSSESSION FOR 30 DAYS AFTER ENTRYOF AN ORDER OF POSSESSION, IN ACCORDANCE WITH SECTION 15-1701(C) OF THE ILLINOIS MORTGAGE FORECLOSURE LAW. You will need a photo identification issued by a government agency (driver's license, passport, etc.) in order to gain entry into our building and the fore-

closure sale room in Cook County and the same identification for sales held at other county venues where The Judicial Sales Corporation conducts foreclosure sales. For information, examine the court file, CODILIS & ASSOCIATES, P.C. Plaintiff's Attorneys, 15W030 NORTH FRONTAGE ROAD, SUITE 100, BURR RIDGE, IL, 60527 (630)

CIRCUITCOURTOF COOK COUNTY, ILLINOIS COUNTYDEPARTMENT- CHANCERYDIVISION NATIONSTAR MORTGAGE LLC Plaintiff,-v.-TRINAE D. SUMMERS, DESMOND SCOTT, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA- SECRETARYOF HOUSING AND URBAN DEVELOPMENTDefendants 2022 CH 11658 246 GENTRYSTPARK FOREST, IL 60466 NOTICE OF SALE PUBLIC NOTICE IS HEREBYGIVEN that pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered in the above cause on March 15, 2023, an agent for The Judicial Sales Corporation, will at 10:30 AM on July 10, 2023, at The Judicial Sales Corporation, One South Wacker, 1st Floor Suite 35R, Chicago, IL, 60606, sell at a public sale to the highest bidder, as set forth below, the following described real estate: Commonly known as 246 GENTRYST, PARK FOREST, IL60466 Property Index No. 3124-428-012-0000 The real estate is improved with a single family residence.

Sale terms: 25% down of the highest bid by certified funds at the close of the sale payable to The Judicial Sales Corporation. No third party checks will be accepted. The balance, in certified funds/or wire transfer, is due within twenty-four (24) hours. The subject property is subject to general real estate taxes, special assessments, or special taxes levied against said real estate and is offered for sale without any representation as to quality or quantity of title and without recourse to Plaintiff and in "AS IS" condition. The sale is further subject to confirmation by the court. Upon payment in full of the amount bid, the purchaser will receive a Certificate of Sale that will entitle the purchaser to a deed to the real estate after confirmation of the sale. Where a sale of real estate is made to satisfy a lien prior to that of the United States, the United States shall have one year from the date of sale within which to redeem, except that with respect to a lien arising under the internal revenue laws the period shall be 120 days or the period allowable for redemption under State law, whichever is longer, and in any case in which, under the provisions of section 505 of the Housing Act of 1950, as amended (12 U.S.C. 1701k), and subsection (d) of section 3720 of title 38 of the United States Code, the right to redeem does not arise, there shall be no right of redemption. The property will NOTbe open for inspection and plaintiff makes no representation as to the condition of the property. Prospective bidders are admonished to check the court file to verify all information. If this property is a condominium unit, the purchaser of the unit at the foreclosure sale, other than a mort-

gagee, shall pay the assessments and the legal fees required by The Condominium Property Act, 765 ILCS 605/9(g)(1) and (g)(4). If this property is a condominium unit which is part of a common interest community, the purchaser of the unit at the foreclosure sale other than a mortgagee shall pay the assessments required by The Condominium Property Act, 765 ILCS 605/18.5(g-1). IF YOU ARE THE MORTGAGOR (HOMEOWNER), YOU HAVE THE RIGHTTO REMAIN IN POSSESSION FOR 30 DAYS AFTER ENTRYOF AN ORDER OF POSSESSION, IN ACCORDANCE WITH SECTION 15-1701(C) OF THE ILLINOIS MORTGAGE FORECLOSURE LAW. You will need a photo identification issued by a government agency (driver's license, passport, etc.) in order to gain entry into our building and the foreclosure sale room in Cook County and the same identification for sales held at other county venues where The Judicial Sales Corporation conducts foreclosure sales. For information, examine the court file, CODILIS & ASSOCIATES, P.C. Plaintiff's Attorneys, 15W030 NORTH FRONTAGE ROAD, SUITE 100, BURR RIDGE, IL, 60527 (630) 794-9876 THE JUDICIALSALES CORPORATION One South Wacker Drive, 24th Floor, Chicago, IL60606-4650 (312) 236-SALE You can also visit The Judicial Sales Corporation at www.tjsc.com for a 7 day status report of pending sales. CODILIS & ASSOCIATES, P.C. 15W030 NORTH FRONTAGE ROAD, SUITE 100 BURR RIDGE IL, 60527 630-794-5300 E-Mail: pleadings@il.cslegal.com Attorney File No. 14-22-08681 Attorney ARDC No. 00468002 Attorney Code. 21762 Case Number: 2022 CH 11658 TJSC#: 431216 NOTE: Pursuant to the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act, you are advised that Plaintiff's attorney is deemed to be a debt collector attempting to collect a debt and any information obtained will be used for that purpose.

Case # 2022 CH 11658 I3221859

LEGALNOTICE

PUBLIC NOTICE

30 DAYNOTICE IS HEREBYGIVEN TO KAREN JONES OF 8540 S. MARYLAND AVE CHICAGO, IL. 60619 THAT IF A1984 BUICK REGALVIN# 1G4AM47A5EH559773 IS NOT PICKED UPFROM KAR KARE SERVICE AT7455 S. EXCHANGE AVE. CHICAGO, IL. 60649 BYJULY12TH 2023 ASALE WILLBE HELD PERSUANTTO ILSEC OF STATE CHAPTER 770/45/1 ETSEQ. & CHAPTER 770/90/1 ETSEQ. THATENFORCES A MECHANICALLIEN FOR UNPAID LABOR, SERVICES, AND STORAGE FEES. THE VEHICLE WILLBE SOLD FOR THE UNPAID CHARGES OF $8972.00

30 DAYNOTICE IS HEREBYGIVEN TO MARIO BERRYOF 7049 S PRAIRIE CHICAGO, IL. 60637 THATIF A1986 CHEVYMONTE CARLO VIN# 1G1GZ37G5GR190952 IS NOT PICKED UPFROM KAR KARE SERVICE AT7455 S. EXCHANGE AVE. CHICAGO, IL. 60649 BYJULY12TH 2023 ASALE WILLBE HELD PERSUANTTO ILSEC OF STATE CHAPTER 770/45/1 ETSEQ. & CHAPTER 770/90/1 ETSEQ. THATENFORCES A MECHANICALLIEN FOR UNPAID LABOR, SERVICES, AND STORAGE FEES. THE VEHICLE WILLBE SOLD FOR THE UNPAID CHARGES OF $4650.00

30 DAYNOTICE IS HEREBYGIVEN TO TERRYWALKER OF 11757 S MORGAN CHICAGO, IL. 60643 THATIF A 2004 FORD F150 VIN# 1FTPW12524KD07949 IS NOTPICKED UPFROM KAR KARE SERVICE AT 7455 S. EXCHANGE AVE. CHICAGO, IL. 60649 BYJULY12TH 2023 ASALE WILLBE HELD PERSUANTTO ILSEC OF STATE CHAPTER 770/45/1 ET SEQ. & CHAPTER 770/90/1 ETSEQ. THATENFORCES AMECHANICAL LIEN FOR UNPAID LABOR, SER-

VICES, AND STORAGE FEES. THE VEHICLE WILLBE SOLD FOR THE UNPAID CHARGES OF $10,252.00

EDUCATION

Top Tips to Win a College Scholarship

StatePoint) More than half of American families used scholarships to pay for college last year. From merit-based to artisticfocused, there are a variety of awards available.

High school senior Grace Vaughn of Trinity, Florida, knows how to successfully secure a college scholarship. After winning the $10,000 dress grand prize in Duck brand’s Stuck at Prom Scholarship Contest in 2022, Vaughn is sharing helpful tips to increase students’odds of earning funds for college:

Research, research, research Search databases and websites to discover award options that may be new to you. Scholarships.com, FastWeb and Bold.org are resources to help narrow down opportunities that match your interests and unique talents. Vaughn also encourages students to leverage social media, where she discovered the Stuck at Prom contest, which challenges teens to create Duck Tape prom creations for a chance to win cash scholarships. In addition to researching national opportunities, check in with your school counselor and teachers to learn about any local or regional scholarships that are offered through the school or other nearby organizations.

Apply early and often Federal Student Aid

SAFETY

EDUCATION

recommends searching for scholarships during the summer between your junior and senior year, but some awards are open to teens as young as 14. Vaughn says entering Stuck at Prom early on in high school gave her an edge on the competition. When she wasn’t selected as a finalist her sophomore year, Vaughn submitted for the contest again as a junior and went on to win the $10,000 dress grand prize.

“When I began working on my entry in 2022, I already knew how to construct the dress from Duck Tape, so I went into the process with confidence,” Vaughn explains.

If you have the time and energy, she sug(gests applying for multiple awards to increase your chances of securing funds for school.

Leverage your creative side

Not all programs are focused on academics and athletics, so flex your creative side to win scholarships that will reward artistic abilities in drawing, painting, music and more. Beginning at an early age, Vaughn excelled at visual arts and design, which is how she knew Stuck at Prom was a perfect fit for her.

“Creative awards programs are a good outlet for students to show off their talents outside of typical schoolwork,” Vaughn says. “Even if you aren’t crafty, scholarship applications could be a chance for you to try something new.”

PHOTO CAPTION: Grace Vaughn leveraged her creativity to win a $10,000 college scholarship.

ship program submissions will take 143 hours or require making Duck Tape attire, Vaughn says it’s important to block off areas on your calendar so you can balance busy school schedules and extracurricular activities along with applications—ensuring there’s enough time to work on a polished entry, whether it’s creating a piece of art or writing an essay. While applying for scholarships is time consuming, it can make a huge impact when it comes to paying for college. Vaughn notes, “It takes commitment and drive to apply for scholarships, but the results are worth it.”

Don’t Let Battery Chargers Ignite a Disaster: Top Fire Prevention Tips

PHOTO SOURCE: (c) audioundwerbung / iStock via Getty Images Plus

(StatePoint) According to the National Fire Protection Association, local U.S. fire departments responded to an estimated 1.35 million fires in 2021 – an average of every 23 seconds. These fires resulted in 3,800 civilian deaths and 14,700 reported civilian injuries, but the devastation didn’t stop there. They also resulted in an estimated $15.9 billion in property damage loss.

Fires can affect not just the health and safety of family, friends and community, but also take a major financial toll on homeowners and businesses. The International Code Council’s 2023 Building Safety Month campaign focuses on general building safety awareness, including how to recognize and practice fire prevention strategies and be aware of potential risks in your home or business.

Potential Dangers of Lithium-Ion Batteries and Chargers

Over the years, lithium-ion batteries and chargers have caused many fires with sometimes devastating consequences. Found within common household products such as electronic toys, small and large appliances, headphones, cellphones, laptops and more, their popularity has grown thanks to their high-energy density and longer lifespan. But with this growth comes the need to learn how to properly handle these products.

Below are actionable steps and fire prevention tips from Beth Tubbs, chief fire protection engineer for the Code Council, to help ensure lithium-ion batteries and chargers are used and stored safely. These are general safety tips, so you will need to refer to each device’s owner manual for specific safety and maintenance instructions.

Buyer Beware: Only purchase an appliance or device with a lithium-ion battery and charger from reputable manufacturers to ensure it’s designed, manufactured, tested and maintained according to

applicable safety standards. This is a critical first step in battery fire prevention. Use an Approved Battery Charger, Correctly: When charging a lithium-ion battery, use a proper charger that is manufacturer-approved or listed as acceptable on the device. Lithium-ion batteries are highly sensitive to charging conditions and using an incorrect charger, or using it incorrectly, can result in the battery overcharging. When a battery overcharges, it can overheat, catch fire and, in the worst-case scenario, explode. Never charge lithium-ion batteries when you aren’t home to supervise it. If a potentially dangerous situation does arise, you can act quickly to rectify it by unplugging the battery, using a portable fire extinguisher or calling your local fire department for help. When charging appliances, such as micromobility devices (scooters and e-bikes), plug them directly into the electrical receptacle, not through multiplug adaptors or extension cords. Follow the manufacturer’s guidelines, including the recommended charge time. This will increase the safety and performance of your battery.

Location, Location, Location: When it comes to safety, where you use a lithium-ion battery device or charger is extremely important.

Because these batteries can pose a significant fire risk, it is crucial that they aren’t located in front of an exit or escape route. If the battery is mishandled or exposed to extreme conditions and a fire erupts, you will need an unobstructed escape route. Store batteries in a cool, dry environment to maintain their performance and safety. It is recommended to store batteries indoors, away from direct

sunlight, excess heat, combustibles and potentially flammable substances.

Follow Maintenance Guidelines: Reputable manufacturers provide instructions on how to best maintain the performance and safety of their batteries, often found online or in the device or appliance’s maintenance guide.

Some common maintenance tips include:

• Regularly inspecting the battery and charger for visible damage

• Routinely checking the battery’s charge status

• Observing and noting the runtime of your battery (and any changes in this time)

• Disconnecting the battery from the charger once it reaches full capacity.

Resources for Fire Prevention

Lithium-ion battery fires can start in a matter of seconds; it’s important to use them safely.

The Code Council’s Building Safety Month website has several resources to help you understand and implement key fire prevention measures and protect your home or business. Access these resources by visiting iccsafe.org.