Citizen Suburban times Weekly 11-22-2023

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SUBURBAN TIMES

Week of November 22, 2023

WEEKLY

“The Finer Things” Itinerary Unveiled: A Three-Day Luxury Adventure in Pierce County

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P4 FREE | VOL 7 | ISSUE 14

Giannoulias Announces Long-Awaited Launch of State’s Monarch Butterfly Plate P9

Janelle Monae Joins Milk To Celebrate Female Marathoners In NYC P10

Illinois Commerce Commission member Michael Carrigan (left), Chair Doug Scott, and member Ann McCabe are pictured at a commission meeting in Springfield earlier this month. (CAPITOL NEWS ILLINOIS PHOTO BY JERRY NOWICKI)

ADVOCATES HAIL REGULATORY

‘EARTHQUAKE’ AS STATE SLASHES REQUESTED GAS RATE INCREASES Company profits cut, low-income customers set to receive new discounts

CHICAGO – Regulators at the Illinois Commerce Commission on Thursday unanimously approved rate hikes for four major natural gas utilities, but the little-known regulatory body’s decision was perhaps more notable for what it rejected.

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SUBURBAN TIMES

Suburban Times | Week of November 22, 2023

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New state taking effectasJan. Advocates hail laws regulatory ‘earthquake’ state 1 slashes Minimum wage hike, pets in public among new changes requested gashousing rate increases Continued from page 1

Continued from page 1

BY PETER HANCOCK Capitol News Illinois phancock@capitolnewsillinois.com

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

Those are just some of the more set to than 300 new laws that take effect in the new year. receive new The minimum wage increase is actually the result of a 2019 law that discounts 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

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tenants to keep pets is the result of Senate Bill 154, by Sen. Linda stumbled out of the gates and there’s been so many investigations,” Scarr

BY ANDREW ADAMS Holmes, D-Aurora, and Rep. Stephsaid. “For years, decision-makers have looked the other way, but they CAPITOL NEWS ILLINOIS anie Kifowit, D-Oswego. It provides didn’t today and that’s a huge deal.”

AADAMS@CAPITOLNEWSILLINOIS.COM that tenants of multifamily housing Consumer impacts have been one of the most hotly debated units that are acquired, built or ren-at the Illinois Commerce Commission on elements of the four concurrent rate cases. Last year, the ICC directed CHICAGO – Regulators utilities to propose a new system to offer lower energy rates for low-inThursday unanimously approved rate hikes for four major natural gas ovated with money from the Illinois come customers. utilities,Housing but theTrust little-known regulatory body’s decision was perhaps Affordable Fund These low-income rate designs were one of the areas of focus of more what it rejected. may keepnotable up to twofor cats or one dog Karen Lusson, a lawyer with the National Consumer Law Center who adThe board flexed its regulatory muscle, slashing the weighing lessfive-member than 50 pounds. vocated for the plan that the ICC eventually adopted, overruling adminisutilities’ increases by as much as 50 percent.

It applies requested to residents rate of housing “This was an earthquake units that are designated as afford- in Illinois utility regulation,” Abe Scarr, di- trative judges’ recommendations.

“In previous rate case orders, the commission never specifically rector of consumer able housing for low- andadvocacy very-low- group Illinois PIRG told Capitol News Illinois assessed how affordable or unaffordable rates are for customers,” Lusson afterfamilies. the Thursday income The billmeeting. passed said.

Scarr and among the consumer advocates asking for both chambers in itsPIRG final were form on The plan will offer discounts to those with incomes below three greater regulatory oversight of the natural gas industry ahead of the May 30 and Gov. JB Pritzker signed times the federal poverty limit, with greater discounts for those making requested rate increase from the four utilities that collectively serve 98 it into law Aug. 6. less money.

Discounts would apply to an entire customer bill and would percent of Illinois’ gas customers – Nicor Gas, Ameren Illinois, Peoples Other new laws include: be as high as 83 percent for Peoples Gas customers and 75 percent Gas and North Shore Gas. Vehicle taxes: SB58 raises the pricustomers of other companies, according to Lusson. These discounts are Rates will still rise next year, but not nearly as much as they would vate vehicle tax, which is a sales tax slated to go into effect in October 2024. have if the commission had approved the utilities’ initial requests. paid on the purchase of vehicles, by Ameren’s Tomc said he was worried about the program’s potential The commissioners instead sided with consumer advocates – re$75 for each model year where the impacts on customers who are not low-income. jecting several recommendations from the ICC’s own staff – in several purchase priceincluding is less thanprofit $15,000 key areas, rates, low-income discounts and spending andoversight. by $100 for vehicles priced Profits slashed above that amount. However, the Ameren’s initial ask by about 50.8 percent The commission lowered the expected rate hikes by leveraging one Commissioners lowered registration fee for trailers weighing of its most powerful tools: deciding companies’ profits through their and cut Nicor’s request by 30.3 percent. For Peoples Gas, it was a 25 lesspercent than 3,000 pounds will reduction, anddrop for to its sister company North Shore, regulators cut “return on equity” or ROE. $36the instead of $118.

Ameren and Nicor both requested ROE rates above 10 percent, while request by 34 percent.

College admissions: HB226, While advocates hailed the ICC’s decisions as a victory, utilities were Peoples Gas requested a 9.9 percent figure. But consumer advocates establishing pushed back on those asks. For example, the Citizens Utility Board, one wary. the Higher Education Fair Admissions Act,reaction prohibitsis that I’m concerned,” Matthew Tomc, who over- of several groups that argued for lower rates, requested a range centered “My initial public and universities on 9.5 percent for Ameren and Peoples Gas and 9.4 percent for Nicor. seescolleges regulatory affairs for Ameren Illinois, told Capitol News Illinois. from requiring applicants to submit But in a surprising move, the Commission set rates in the cases at or Tomc said that once Ameren staff fully reviews the ICC decision, below that recommendation. Nicor Gas will operate with a 9.51 percent they will requesting SAT, ACT orconsider other standardized testa rehearing to challenge the ICC’s concluROE, and Ameren will operate with a 9.44 percent ROE. Peoples Gas and sions. scores as part of the admissions proOtherprospective companiesstudents involved in the cases indicated they were review- North Shore Gas will operate with a 9.38 percent ROE. cess, although Sarah Moskowitz, CUB’s executive director, said the move has both ingchoose the decisions. may to submit them if they consumer and climate implications.

“Natural gas remains the most affordable energy source for winwish.

“They (the ICC) sent a strong message today that they are looking ter-residential heating and is the main fuel source used by manufacturers Drug prices: SB1682 requires in Illinois,” Nicor spokesperson Jennifer Golz said in a statement. “Nicor out for the interests of utility customers and understand that we’re going pharmacies to post a notice inGas provides anthat affordable forming consumers they mayenergy source, which is more important now to have to plan for a clean energy transition and that utilities can no lonthancurrent ever with families facing rising costs for everything. resources as an ger dodge that issue,” Moskowitz said. request pharmacy retail Thursday’s decisions also began a process for the state deciding energy.” prices at the point of sale. what role natural gas should play in Illinois’ clean energy transition. Each Nicor and Peoples Gas have not released cost estimates under the FOID card changes: HB562 engas company involved in the cases is set to participate in a series of “funew rates approved Thursday.

But downstate Ameren Illinois says costs acts several changes to the Firearm ture of gas” hearings next year that could help shape the industry’s fate in will remain similar to last winter, echoing claims made by Peoples Gas Owner Identification card law.

Illinois. earlier this year.

Among other things, it provides for “As the State embarks on a journey toward a 100 percent clean a streamlined renewal process for energy economy, the gas system’s operations will not continue to exist in Spending oversight, FOID cards and Concealed Carry consumer impacts its current form,” ICC Chairman Doug Scott said in a statement. “Identhe voluntarily ICC’s five commissioners reduced the companies’ LicensesInforgeneral, people who tifying how our gas and electric systems can adapt to meet these goals, requests for infrastructure submit fingerprint records. It alsospending, citing a lack of evidence that inand what specific actions should be taken to achieve them, will be an creased rates were necessary to maintain system safety. allows the Illinois State Police to important task for the Commission moving forward.”

But the commission issue a combined FOID card andwas particularly critical of one company’s That statement came a few hours after Scott told utility representaspending choices.

Peoples the city Chicago, Concealed Carry License to quali-Gas, which Gov. JBoperates Pritzker isinshown hereofearlier this year in atives Capitol Illinois file photo.

The governorhad signed more andNews advocates that the companies failed to than take that transition been highly system modernization 300 bills that become law on Jan. 1.program, (Capitol News Illinois file photo) fiedhas applicants, and itcriticized establishesfor a its ongoing into account during the rate cases. which critics have said is plagued by regular budget overruns and is often new Violent Crime Intelligence Task In the Peoples Gas case, for instance, Scott noted that the company behind schedule.

United States.

In June,toward President its public“signaled health authorities from to the appropriate school support Force to take enforcement action that they are not currently working theJoe electrification Thursday’s ICC decision notpersonnel. only reduced Peoples Gas’ overall infraalsocomments signed a billabout designating regulatinggoals or shutting against people with revoked FOID of the down state.”lemonHe madeBiden similar Nicor and Ameren structure spending request, but it also took a strong Juneteenth as a federal holiday. adethe stands or similar Official flags: HB605oversight requires step for cards.

Illinois andoperations cited it asthat reasoning for cutting some of the companies’ company’s pipeline replacement program. The ICC paused all spending are operated by children under the state agencies and institutions to Student mental health: HB576 spending. on the program for the next year and ordered a new ICC investigation into News a as “Hayli’s Law,” groupsCapitol purchase Illinois and American flags age of 16. Known and SB1577 allow students in IlliClimate advocacy such as theIllinois IllinoisisClean Jobs Coalition the program. nonprofit, nonpartisan it was inspired by 12-year-old Hayli issuing that are made in the United States. celebrated the decision, a statement thatnews the ICC’s decision indinois up to five excused absences to “We look forward to actively participating in future proceedings and covering state government Martinez,cates whose“there’s lemonade standsheriff in service a new in town.”

Hair styles: SB817 prohibits attend to their mental or behavioral demonstrating how our energy delivery system is critical to Chicago’s Illinoisand is a nonprofit, nonpartisan distributed to more than 400 news service Kankakee wasCapitol shut downNews by local discrimination in schools against health without providing a medical clean energy future,” Peoples Gas spokesperson David Schwartz said covering state government.

It is distributed to hundreds of print newspapers statewide.

It is funded officials. individuals on the grounds of note. students will be given in aThose Thursday statement.

“We are pleased the Commission shares our and HB3922 broadcast outlets statewide.

Itthe is Illinois funded primarily by the Illiprimarily by Press Juneteenth: recognizwearing natural or ethnic hairstyles, anconcern opportunity to make up any about safety.” nois Press Foundation and the Robert R. Robert McCormick Foundation, Foundation and the R. es June 19, or “Juneteenth, ” as an include dreadlocks, braids, work they missed during thecritic first of thewhich Scarr, a longtime program, praised the decision. along with major contributions from the Illinois Broadcasters McCormick Foundation. official state holiday that commemtwists and afros. absence“This and, after using a second program was clearly problematic, literally since it got started. It orates theFoundation end of slavery and in theSouthern Illinois Editorial Association.

Lemonade stands: SB119 prohibmental health day, may be referred www.citizennewspapergroup.com

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3 BLACK AMBITION AWARDS $3.2 MILLION DOLLARS C

Suburban Times | Week of November 22, 2023

SUBURBAN TIMES

NATIONAL NEWS

TO 36 ENTREPRENEURS

NEW YORK, PRNewswire -- Pharrell Williams’ Black Ambition, the non-profit initiative dedicated to supporting Black and Hispanic entrepreneurs, has awarded $1 million dollars to Antoinette Banks, CEO and Founder of Expert IEP, a parent-facing app that optimizes existing Individualized Education Plans with predictive AI for children diagnosed with a disability, as the Grand Prize Winner of its 2023 Prize competition at the third-annual “Demo Day’’ event held on Thursday, Nov. 9, at Spring Studios in New York, NY. Other Top Prize Winners include ECOMSPACES, a one-stop-shop for e-commerce solutions ranging from product photography to order fulfillment, and HBCU Grand Prize Winner, Monocle, a social e-reader that creates a community-focused reading experience, who were awarded with $250,000 and $200,000, respectively, towards their ventures – in addition to 33 other prize recipients who also received monetary prizes.

Demo Day 2023 celebrated the monumental milestone of more than 100 entrepreneurs funded since Black Ambition’s inception in 2020. This year, over 2,000 applicants began their journey on either the Black Ambition/PRNewsFoto General or HBCU Prize track.

Participating founders represented companies within five distinct categories: Consumer Products and Services, Healthcare, Media and Entertainment, Technology, and Web 3.0. The nationwide competition was then narrowed down to 50 finalists, and then condensed even further to the top 36. This year, the 36 top finalists all received Prize awards ranging from $20,000 – $250,000. The final eight advancing finalists had the unique opportunity to pitch live on stage for the chance to win the grand prize of $1,000,000.

The esteemed panel of judges that determined the Prize winners included Marilyn Webber from Louis Vuitton, Erik Moore, Managing Director at Base Ventures, and Jay Lundy, SVP, Head of Investments & New Ventures at Combs Global. The event was hosted by two-time Emmy award-winning talk show host and Digital Lifestyle Expert, Mario Armstrong.

Following the pitching presentations, Founder Pharrell Williams was joined onstage by Black Ambition CEO Felecia Hatcher and Warby Parker Co-CEO David Gilboa for a compelling discussion on their respective entrepreneurial and leadership journeys. Additionally, prior year Black Ambition prize winners including Kadidja Dosso of Dosso Beauty (2021 HBCU Grand Prize Winner) & Karissma Yve of Gildform (a 2022 General Prize Winner) participated in a conversation moderated by Glenise Kinard-Moore, Founder and CEO of Skiimoo Tech (2022 2nd place General Prize Winner), discussing their entrepreneurial journey & business successes since winning investments.

After the panel conversations came the highlight of the evening, the announcement of the Prize Winners. The Grand Prize Winner, Antoinette Banks, CEO and Founder of Expert IEP, was presented with a $1,000,000 check onstage by both Pharrell and Felecia.

“Black Ambition is a feeling, it’s an overwhelming drive to show up consistently in excellence to create lasting, unapologetic impact. For so long Black and Brown kids with learning differences have been underestimated and forgotten. Earning this $1M prize puts our kids back in the forefront, it gets people thinking deeply about solving the problems in special education.

As Founder and CEO, I am deeply grateful to Black Ambition for believing in me, holding space for me, and breaking down barriers. It’s clear that Black Ambition is more than a prize award, it’s a shift in expectation for our culture.”- Grand Prize Winner Antoinette Banks, CEO and Founder of Expert IEP. Following a brief press conference, guests were then invited to join in a celebratory cocktail hour, followed by an elevated networking reception where attendees were treated to gift bags curated by Louis Vuitton, Adidas, Billionaire Boys Club, JOOPITER and more.

Participating brand partners for the 2023 Black Ambition Prize Demo Day included presenting sponsor Louis Vuitton, Adidas, Valor Equity Partners, and Spring Studios.

“We are immensely proud to be supporting an initiative like Black Ambition and hosting the teams and entrepreneurs over the past two days at Spring Studios New York. As a creative business committed to advancement in culture and enterprise, we share common goals of championing ambition and innovation and building a more diverse community. We very much look forward to continuing the support and growing the partnership in the future,” Giuseppe Stigliano Global CEO Spring Studios.

Black Ambition is dedicated to closing the opportunity and wealth gap by empowering Black and Hispanic entrepreneurs.

Through its extensive virtual training initiatives and events, the organization has provided invaluable support to over 5,000 founders since launching in 2020, helping them navigate the challenges of building successful businesses. To date, Black Ambition has awarded funding and resources to 101 Prize Winners and supported an additional 750 entrepreneurs with mentorship to strengthen their ventures. Approximately $10M dollars has been awarded to finalists.

A list of the 36 winners can be found below: $20,000 General Track Prize Recipients: BarBella Co., www.barbellaco.com Bea’s Bayou Skincare, www.beasbayouskincare.com

Hamilton Perkins Collection, www.hamiltonperkins.com The Jefas, www.thejefas.com KT Winery Inc., www.momjuicewine.com $50,000 General Track Prize Recipients: kweliTV, www.kweli.tv Clymb, www.clymbup.io Healthy Oceans Seafood Company (brand: Pescavore), www. pescavoreseafood.com Boxtown Team, www.boxtownproducts.com IndiGenius LLC (CDIAL AI), www.cdial.co Saint Miles, www.saintmiles.co Cerobrand / Singular Care, www.singular.care Rektify AI, www.rektify.ai Redress, www.myredress.com $75,000 General Track Prize Recipients: Katapulte, www.katapulte.io Gently Soap, www.gentlysoap.com Compensate Community Powered By WorldSafe1st Inc. www. compensatecommunity.com KIN Apparel, www.kinapparel.com UnDelay, www.undelayapp.com Therapeutic Innovations, www.therapeuticinnovations.org $100,000 General Track Prize Recipients: MOODEAUX, www.moodeaux.com The Renatural, www.therenatural.com Uncle Waithley’s Beverage Company, Inc., www.unclewaithleys. com $250,000 General Track Prize Recipients: ECOMSPACES, www.ecomspaces.com $1,000,000 General Track Prize Recipients: Expert IEP, www.expertieps.com $20,000 HBCU Track Prize Recipients: Tendaji, Inc., www.tendajiinc.org/ WENITE Inc, www.weniteinc.com

$25,000 HBCU Track Prize Recipients: Parking Pin, www.parkingpin.io $50,000 HBCU Track Prize Recipients: DoctorFlow, www.mydoctorflow.com Scholist App, www.scholistapp.com Venture for T.H.E.M., www.venture4them.com Darknore, www.darknore.com Butter’d Bodycare, www.butterdbodycare.co $75,000 HBCU Track Prize Recipients: Suds Laundry Services LLC, www.sudslaundryservices.com $100,000 HBCU Track Prize Recipients: Rejuvenation, www.drinkrejuv.com $200,000 HBCU Track Prize Recipients: Monocle, www.readonmonocle.com For more information on Black Ambition, please visit www. blackambitionprize.com.

Entergy to sponsor 50th Annual Bayou Classic NEW ORLEANS, PRNewswire -- Entergy is pleased to serve as the diamond sponsor for the 50th Annual Bayou Classic, an annual event that celebrates the rich heritage and legacy of America’s Historically Black Colleges and Universities. Entergy has a longstanding commitment to powering life for its customers and communities. The prominent football game, played between the Southern University Jaguars and the Grambling State University Tigers, serves as a platform to not only showcase exceptional athletic talent but also to honor the traditions, achievements and contributions of HBCUs to American society.

“We are honored to be a sponsor of the 50th Annual Bayou Classic and help support a celebration that has become an iconic part of Thanksgiving weekend here in New Orleans,” said Drew Marsh, Entergy’s chairman and chief executive officer. “Our partnership with HBCUs has been instrumental in fostering a diverse and innovative workforce at Entergy.

Through our collaboration, we have been able to tap into a pool of exceptional talent and we look forward to creat-

ing more opportunities for students to thrive, and thereby strengthen our whole community.”

The Bayou Classic, presented by P&G, draws more than 200,000 people to New Orleans each year, providing numerous opportunities to highlight on a national scale all that the city and state have to offer. Entergy’s sponsorship will have a significant impact on the local community, generating economic benefits for the city of New Orleans through increased tourism and revenue for local businesses.

Ranked as the No. 1 HBCU Classic in the nation, the football game will be played Saturday, Nov. 25, 2023, at the Caesars Superdome in New Orleans. Entergy recognizes the significance of HBCUs in shaping the educational landscape and empowering generations of Black students. With roots in New Orleans for more than 100 years, the company is committed to taking meaningful action to help create opportunities for fostering HBCU student success, as well as building a more diverse, inclusive and equitable workforce in its communities. Learn more about Entergy’s commitment to

building diverse communities here.

Entergy looks forward to a memorable 50th Annual Bayou Classic event that celebrates the achievements and cultural significance of HBCUs. For more information, visit www.mybayouclassic.com.

Entergy (NYSE: ETR) is a Fortune 500 company that powers life for 3 million customers through our operating companies in Arkansas, Louisiana, Mississippi and Texas.

We’re investing in the reliability and resilience of the energy system while helping our region transition to cleaner, more efficient energy solutions. With roots in our communities for more than 100 years, Entergy is a nationally recognized leader in sustainability and corporate citizenship. Since 2018, we have delivered more than $100 million in economic benefits each year to local communities through philanthropy, volunteerism and advocacy. Entergy is headquartered in New Orleans, Louisiana, and has approximately 12,000 employees. Learn more at entergy.com and connect with @Entergy on social media. #WePowerLife

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Suburban Times | Week of November 22, 2023

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Visitors Go Deeper in 2024: Asheville Abounds With Adventure for Culture-Seekers

The Museum of Glass in Tacoma, Washington is one of the most important museums for studio art glass in the world. PRNEWSFOTO/TRAVEL TACOMA – MT. RAINIER TOURISM AND SPORTS.

“The Finer Things” Itinerary Unveiled:

A Three-Day Luxury Adventure in Pierce County TACOMA, Wash., PRNewswire -- A new, more luxe travel experience awaits visitors to Pierce County this winter. “The Finer Things,” a meticulously curated three-day itinerary, promises a blend of cultural sophistication, natural beauty, and indulgent leisure. Developed by the destination experts at Travel Tacoma - Mt. Rainier Tourism and Sports, this itinerary is designed to offer a seamless and enriching journey through the county’s finest attractions.

“This itinerary is a celebration of the finer aspects of life and luxury in Pierce County,” said Matt Wakefield, Chief Marketing and Data Officer, Travel Tacoma – Mt. Rainier. “This region’s adventurous side usually gets top billing, with all the opportunities for hiking, biking, and paddling that are available. But we also have a side that doesn’t mind being serenaded in a gondola, and winter is a great time to indulge in that.”

Day 1: Tacoma - A Visual and Culinary Delight The journey begins in Tacoma, inviting travelers to immerse themselves in a world of artistic beauty and culinary excellence. The day features an exquisite waterfront dining experience, a visit to a renowned museum district boasting an array of art and history exhibits, and a delightful exploration of a vibrant public market. The evening culminates with a stay at a luxurious waterfront inn, ensuring a restful night with scenic views.

Day 2: Tacoma, Puyallup, Lakewood - A

Nostalgic Escapade On the second day, the itinerary takes guests through Tacoma, Puyallup, and Lakewood, offering a blend of historical charm and contemporary luxury. Breakfast in a historic district sets the tone for the day, followed by visits to a legendary candy shop and a chic bistro renowned for its culinary creativity. The afternoon is dedicated to antique shopping, exploring exquisite collections of chandeliers and vintage furniture. The day ends with a stay in a historic castle-turned-hotel, providing an experience of opulent tradition.

Day 3: Gig Harbor - Coastal Elegance The final day is dedicated to the coastal allure of Gig Harbor. Starting with a waterfront breakfast, the day unfolds with maritime adventures, including scenic gondola rides and engaging harbor tours. A seafood lunch at a renowned local eatery is followed by a visit to a celebrated distillery, renowned for its artisan spirits. The journey concludes with a gourmet dinner and a stay at a charming inn overlooking the harbor, offering a serene end to an exquisite adventure.

For more details and to download the “The Finer Things” itinerary, please visit www.traveltacoma.com/FinerThings.

Travel Tacoma – Mt. Rainier Tourism and Sports is the official destination marketing organization for Tacoma and Pierce County, Washington. Accredited by Destinations International. For more information, visit www.traveltacoma.com.

ASHEVILLE, N.C., PRNewswire -- The desire to connect with local cultures and communities is one of the biggest trends driving travel decisions in 2024. Asheville meets the moment with new opportunities to explore the region’s deeply-rooted traditions and heritage – reinvigorated and transformed by modern and diverse perspectives. Local artists call this creative movement “Neo Appalachia.” From a hotel awash with psychedelic street art, to a new eatery inspired by a matriarch’s fried fish recipe, the new year invites visitors to explore Asheville’s multi-layered past, present and future.

New sights, attractions and accommodations encompass decades of creative history, revisited with fresh perspectives New trail marks the resilience of Asheville’s Black history – Following years of development with community members, the Black Cultural Heritage Trail will debut this December. It highlights historically significant sites and stories throughout the city, including Allen High School, a private boarding school for Black girls (whose alumnae includes Nina Simone), and Sylvester Owens, a master gardener at Biltmore Estate who became one of the greatest authorities on native azaleas.

Don’t miss: The trail passes by several Black-owned businesses, like Noir Collective, an art gallery and boutique, and Grind AVL, a coffee shop and community space.

Neighborhood on the rise: River Arts District (RAD) – Home to nearly 300 artist studios and galleries, this colorful neighborhood west of downtown is experiencing a surge of creative energy, in large part due to the addition of the area’s first hotel, The Radical. The district’s historic brick buildings adorned with vibrant graffiti and murals continue to take on new life with the arrival of new restaurants, bars and boutiques.

River Arts District Brewing Company, Anoche and Newstock Pantry are a few of the latest, imaginative offerings to join the neighborhood.

As part of the Wilma Dykeman Greenway, which runs along the French Broad River, the first phase of the Karen Cragnolin Park project was completed. ADA compliant and open to pedestrians, runners, cyclists and skaters of all ages, the paved path connects the art-infused greenway to Carrier Park in West Asheville.

Asheville’s largest summer festival returns, making a bigger splash in 2024 – The four-day music festival, AVL Fest, debuted in 2023 spanning more than 200 performances across 22 stages. Headliners included Indigo De Souza, Kurt Vile and Toubab Krewe. 2024 promises to be even better, with more national acts and special events.

Highland Brewing turns 30 – In 1994, Oscar Wong launched Highland Brewing, Asheville’s first brewery since prohibition, igniting a craft brewing renaissance across the Southeast. In the decades since, a collaborative and creative beer scene has flourished, now topping nearly 70 breweries in the Asheville region. Those that followed refer to Wong as “the godfather of Asheville craft beer.”

Join the party: Highland Brewing will mark the 30-year milestone during a weekend-long celebration in May. Festivities include live music, sports tournaments and a new beer release called “The Long Game.” The tropical lager is an ode to Highland’s enduring legacy, and it’s also a nod to the brewery’s outdoor facilities, which include volleyball and disc golf. (May 4-5) PLACES TO STAY: Fresh Boutique Hotel Offerings Are a Destination in Themselves Inherently tied to history and nature, new hotels accentuate connection to people and place Three newly opened hotels await visitors to Asheville in 2024. The trio of properties are all adaptive reuse projects, whose buildings hearken back to the Roaring Twenties – the city’s golden era as a creative mountain escape.

The Radical – Grit meets glamour in this boutique hotel that transformed a once abandoned factory into an unexpected work of modern art. The Radical’s richly layered interiors – by Suomi and Kris Moran, set designer for Wes Anderson – features vibrant graffiti in every guestroom, both from decades past and modern additions.

The Flat Iron – The Big Apple got a flat iron building, so Asheville got one, too. This 71-room, Prohibition-themed hotel features a rooftop bar, and fitting with the era, a hidden speakeasy. The historic building speaks to Asheville’s period of creative and economic wealth in the 1920s and a desire to be more modern and “citified,” as a local historian explains.

Zelda Dearest – An ode to Asheville’s ties to Zelda Fitzgerald, this bespoke hotel connects three historic Victorian-style homes. The romantic venue features inviting outdoor spaces and interiors, inspired by the Fitzgerald’s lives and literary works.

For more of the most up-to-date insights and happenings, visit ExploreAsheville.com.

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Suburban Times | Week of November 22, 2023 | 5

SUBURBAN TIMES

Biden-Harris Administration Premiers Public Service Announcement Elevating the Teaching Profession The U.S. Department of Education launched its campaign to elevate the teaching profession and promote educator diversity. The campaign titled “Teachers: Leaders Shaping Lives” is headlined by a new Public Service Announcement (PSA) developed in partnership with TEACH. org and One Million Teachers of Color. The goal of the PSA is to inspire more talented people—especially those from underrepresented communities—to become teachers, while also elevating the teaching profession and celebrating our teachers. The PSA premiered on LinkedIn’s LinkedIn Live and will appear in media markets across the country via television, radio, and social media. To watch the PSA, click here.

This announcement builds on the Department’s commitment to accelerating academic recovery by working with state and local leaders to elevate the teaching profession and address educator shortages. As a result of these efforts, as of October 2023, local public education employment has nearly rebounded to pre-pandemic levels, now roughly at the same levels as October 2019, the last pre-pandemic beginning of a school year. At the height of the pandemic, there were 730,000, or 9 percent, fewer local public education employees than before the pandemic. As of October 2023, there are only 0.17 percent fewer employees in local public education than four years prior. We know that when shortages of qualified educators exist, they disproportionately impact students from low-income backgrounds, students of color, students with disabilities, and multilingual learners.

“I’ll never forget the positive influence that my first teacher of color, Mr. Gary O’Neil, had on me. My personal experience is backed up by years of research illustrating that all students benefit from having diverse and talented educators in the classroom,” said U.S. Secretary of Education Miguel Cardona. “This campaign reflects the Biden-Harris Administration’s commitment to elevating the teaching profession and encouraging more talented people, and especially those from underrepresented communities, to pursue fulfilling and impactful careers as educators. At the Department, our efforts to help states and districts grow a talented and diverse teacher pipeline are at the core of our efforts to Raise the Bar in education and build on President Biden’s historic investments in America’s public schools. I’m proud that, thanks in large part to these efforts, we have already reduced the educator shortage to a fraction of what it was during the pandemic.”

This progress to date on eliminating educator shortages is a result of the systematic efforts by the U.S. Department of Education, with partners across the Biden-Harris Administration, to advance key strategies to restore staffing in our schools and ensure all students have access to well-prepared and fully qualified teachers and school leaders. School districts are estimated to spend nearly $30 billion of their American Rescue Plan Elementary and Secondary School Emergency Relief (ARP ESSER) funds on staffing, including on these critical strategies. In addition, in fiscal year (FY) 2023, the Department has invested $2.76 billion in the nation’s educators through its grant programs, $93 million more than invested in FY 2021.

The Department has worked to increase teacher compensation and improve working and learning conditions, which are critical to educator recruitment and retention, and increasing the diversity of the profession.

President Biden and Secretary Cardona have repeatedly called for leaders at all levels to increase educator pay and provide teachers with a livable and competitive wage. Since 2021-2022, at least 29 states and the District of Columbia have taken concrete steps at the state or system level to increase compensation. This Department map provides transparency into teacher pay, and state action to address it.

The Department is increasing access to high-quality and affordable pathways into the teaching profession, like

grow your own programs and teacher residency programs.

The Department has partnered with the Department of Labor to expand Registered Apprenticeship Programs for teachers, a high-quality earn-while-you-learn model that can be used to scale grow your own and residency programs and break down financial barriers to accessing high-quality pathways and entering the profession. There were no registered apprenticeship programs for teachers at the beginning of the Biden-Harris Administration, yet as of November, 28 states and Puerto Rico now have registered programs.

In FY 2023, the Department awarded $14.5 million in new Teacher Quality Partnership awards and more than $35 million in funding for 138 new Personnel Development Program projects to support high-quality pathways into the profession and address key shortage areas such as special education.

At the end of October, the Department hosted the

Teach to Lead Summit and the Conference on Equity in Opportunity, which brought together leaders to highlight effective practices for increasing educator diversity and identify new strategies for advancing this work.

The Department is investing in supports for school leaders, who play a critical role in shaping school climate and educator working conditions. The Department also is investing in current teachers who help them succeed and stay in the profession, including through high-quality new teacher induction programs, job-embedded professional learning throughout educators’ careers, and career advancement and leadership opportunities.

This includes, in FY23, awarding nearly $115 million in Teacher and School Leader Incentive awards, more than $6 million the first-ever Native American Teacher Retention Initiative program, and $12.7 in Supporting Effective Educator Development Grants.

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6 | Suburban Times | Week of November 22, 2023

SUBURBAN TIMES

CHICAGO AWARDED AN ANTICIPATED $17 MILLION CDC GRANT TO BOLSTER OVERDOSE PREVENTION CHICAGO — The City of Chicago has been selected as a recipient of a $17 Million grant over five years from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to address the opioid epidemic through the Overdose Data to Action (OD2A) program. The grant represents a transformative opportunity to strengthen ongoing efforts in combatting the overdose crisis and reducing overdose-related harms.

The CDC’s OD2A program plays a vital role in advancing the nation’s response to the opioid epidemic. OD2A supports funded jurisdictions to implement prevention activities and to collect accurate, comprehensive, and timely data on nonfatal and fatal overdoses. This data is used to enhance programs and data monitoring efforts. With this grant, Chicago will be able to respond more quickly, effectively, and equitably to residents’ needs, using data to drive action to reduce overdose deaths and related harms.

Using the OD2A funding, the Chicago Department of Public Health (CDPH) is piloting the use of “Public Health Vending Machines” to deliver free general hygiene, health, and harm reduction supplies to individuals experiencing substance use disorder (SUD), homelessness, or similar vulnerabilities in Chicago.

Other OD2A funds will allow CDPH to continue and expand partnerships across 10 different programs that support harm reduction, linkage to care, and improvements overdose reporting and data analysis capacity. Projects range from a post-overdose response pilot program on the West Side (link to CARE dashboard) to the innovative Medication Assisted Recovery NOW (MAR NOW) Program, which has connected over 600 people to opioid treatment and will be expanding to serve people with alcohol use disorder on December 1st. OD2A supports partnerships with public safety entities as well, allowing CDPH to work with Chicago Police Department on the Narcotics Arrest Diversion Program and Cook County Sheriff’s Office to ensure access to harm reduction services for individuals leaving Cook County Jail.

The pilot program bean on Friday, Nov. 17th, and aims to help prevent overdose while also supporting the health and wellbeing of people in Chicago. The vending machines will feature artwork from local artists and be located at five locations across the city identified as “hot spots” for opioid-related emergency medical responses based on a geographic analysis conducted by CDPH : Uptown Library: 929 W Buena Ave – in the front lobby Garfield Community Service Center: 10 S Kedzie – in the main lobby on the first floor Harold Washington Library

Center: 400 S State St – on the 3rd floor (elevator access available) 95th/Dan Ryan Red Line CTA Station: 14 W 95th St – North Terminal building outside of the turnstile Roseland Community Triage Center: 200 E 115th St – in the entryway before the main doors on the first floor A range of supplies will be available in the vending machines.

CDPH will change the available products according to usage patterns and suggestions from the community. As a part of the pilot program, the vending machines will contain: Narcan (naloxone) Fentanyl Test Kits Xylazine Test Kits General Hygiene Kits Menstrual Hygiene Kits Socks & Underwear The Public Health Vending Machines work just like regular vending machines, except all of the items are free. All you need to access supplies is a unique PIN code that will work at all 5 of the machines. CDPH is collaborating with hosting agencies and local partners to help individuals sign up to receive a PIN at multiple community organizations near the vending machines.

To get a PIN code, there are several options: Complete this form and a PIN code will be emailed: https:// redcap.dph.illinois.gov/surveys/?s=JJL73LHMW44YJ4DA Go in person to a partner organization, where you will receive a card with PIN code information To get a PIN code, you will need to provide your zip code of most recent residence. You will also be asked some optional demographic and other information, which CDPH will use to evaluate the effectiveness of this pilot program.

All machines have Narcan (naloxone), the medication that reverses an opioid overdose available without a PIN code. To access Narcan at any machine, simply key in “1234” and the item identification number. This information is also posted on every machine.

If you have suggestions on what products the machines should offer please fill out this survey: bit.ly/PHVMSurvey In addition to harm reduction, CDPH supports treatment options for people with opioid use disorder, including expanded access to medication-assisted recovery (MAR). Through a partnership with the Illinois Department of Human Services Division of Substance Use Prevention and Recovery (IDHS/ SUPR), people can call the Illinois Helpline 24 hours a day/7 days a week and receive a referral for a raid telehealth appointment with a provider who can prescribe medication at 833-234-6343.

AZAZIE

Suburban Times | Week of November 22, 2023 | 7

SUBURBAN TIMES

Lt. Governor Stratton Convenes Thought Leaders and Policymakers at the Illinois Legislators Retreat Centered Around Education As a Hunt-Kean Leadership Fellow, Lt. Governor Stratton is Dedicated to Building a Stronger and More Diverse Workforce

Springfield, IL – Lieutenant Governor Juliana Stratton convened the Illinois Legislators Retreat, in partnership with the Hunt Institute, early this week. Members of the General Assembly and resource experts discussed the early childhood workforce, K-12 reading and mental health, educator diversity and diverse postsecondary experiences.

“Supporting our students and teachers is a team effort and we are bringing everything we have to meet the moment and dig in,” said Lt. Governor Juliana Stratton.

“In Illinois, we are doing the work to make our state the best in the nation to raise and educate children. From ending childcare deserts, to free community college, to expanding mental health resources for students, we know that when children and families are strengthened, our entire state is strengthened.”

While the focus of the retreat was primarily on students’ socio-academic development, part of the retreat was dedicated to teacher retention and recruitment strategies that will benefit both students and educators.

The day concluded with a discussion about fostering a diverse post-secondary experience, most notably concentrating on the Supreme Court’s decision on Affirmative Action. The Illinois Legislators Retreat provided an invaluable opportunity to collaborate with leaders in education and policymakers from both sides of the aisle to better inform the policy making process.

Over the last three years, the Office of the Lt. Governor has been committed to working with the Hunt Institute to promote better pathways to quality education.

In 2020, Lt. Governor Stratton was named a Hunt-Kean Leadership Fellow, providing resources and support in education work—including as a partner in the initiative to build a strong, diverse teacher pipeline. Since then, the Office of the Lt. Governor and the Hunt Institute have partnered on events including a 3-part webinar series on rural post-secondary education in 2020. The Hunt Institute and Legislative Education Forum in February 2022, and the Illinois Educator Diversity Summit, discussing strategies to diversify the teacher workforce in Illinois, in March 2023.

The 2023 Hunt Institute Illinois Legislators Retreat was a success in part due to the work done by the Legislators Retreat Co-Chairs: Senate Majority Leader Kimberly Lightford; Senate Assistant Minority Leader Dale Fowler; Co-Chair and Illinois State Representative Carol Ammons--who while was not able to join, she has taken part in advocating for educational efforts; President and CEO of the Hunt Institute, Dr. Javaid Siddiqi; HuntKean Leadership Fellow and Illinois State Representative Aaron Ortiz, along with Illinois State Superintendent Dr. Tony Sanders, Speaker Emanuel “Chris” Welch, and members of the General Assembly who honored this retreat with their presence.

8 | Suburban Times | Week of November 22, 2023

SUBURBAN TIMES

Chefs Join Together Providing Meals to the Community Fridge during the Holiday Season “We are grateful to the chef community for answering the call to action to fill Soul & Smoke’s Community Fridge!” said Stegner.

Heather and D’Andre, along with volunteers from Evanston Community Fridges, stock the refrigerator and pantry outside the Soul & Smoke location at 1601 Payne St., Evanston yearround. The need increases during the winter and the holidays, and to address demand this year, they asked Chef Sarah Stegner of Prairie Grass Cafe & co-founder of Chicago Chefs Cook to help organize additional contributions to the pantry.

Through dedicated outreach efforts, a group of chefs, many of whom are consistent participants in Chicago Chefs Cook events, have stepped up and joined together again to help stock the fridge. This will provide additional free meals to fill the fridge for anyone in need. The special chef contributions

will be offered throughout the holiday season.

“We are grateful to the chef community for answering the call to action to fill Soul & Smoke’s Community Fridge!” said Stegner. Community members that would like to help can also add items to the fridge, pantry, or freezer year-round, or can donate funds to Soul & Smoke’s community fridges program or by adding a community meal to a restaurant order.

Chefs participating by preparing meals include: Heather Bublick and D’Andre Carter, Soul & Smoke Sarah Stegner and George Bumbaris, Prairie Grass Cafe Tigist Reda, Demera Ethiopian Restaurant Arshiya Farheen, Verzênay Chicago

Are you caring for a spouse, parent, relative, or friend?

We are here to help!

Caregiver Services Programs include FREE services such as: Education & Training: Learn new skills to care for you and loved ones Gap-Filling Funds: Help buying essential items like clothing, furniture, grab bars, eyeglasses, technology, and hearing aids One-on-One Counseling: Help with decisions, self-care, and support Support Groups: Share your stories, successes, and challenges caring foryour loved ones with fellow caregivers Respite: Take a short-term break with help at home from a professional caregiver or caregiver of your choice or a nursing home stay for the person receiving your care Programs are for individuals of any age who are caring for: A Chicago resident age 60+ OR under age 60 with Alzheimer’s Disease or Related Contact the DFSS Senior Services Division Information and Assistance Unit aging@cityofchicago.org • 312-744-4016

DFSS

Department of Family and Support Services

Mary Aregoni, Saigon Sisters Devon Quinn and Jodi Fyfe, eden, The Paramount Group Sandra Holl, Floriole Sam Rattanopas and Mina Sudsaard, Nakorn Kitchen Darnell Reed, Luella’s Southern Kitchen Beverly Kim Clark and Johnny Clark, Parachute and Anelya Restaurant Alex DeSalvo, DeSalvo’s Pizza Debbie Gold, Le Tour Evanston Community Fridges is a mutual aid network rooted in collective community care through access to free food. We organize fridges hosted within our city to feed one another. We take responsibility for meeting each other’s needs without relying on ineffective institutions to provide nourishment and cultural affirmation.

The DuSable Museum Women’s Board presents “The Glitz 2023: Celebrating 30 Years of Excellence” The DuSable Museum Women’s Board will host their 30th Annual Holiday Glitz on December 3, 2023 at the Tinley Park Convention Center Ballroom, located at 18451 Convention Center Drive, Tinley Park, IL 60477. The theme of this year’s gala is “Celebrating 30 Years of Excellence.” Enjoy an elegant evening of amazing food and live music entertainment, featuring Chris Christmas Band and V103’s DJ Maurice “ICE” Culpepper.

Gala tickets are currently on sale for $125 per person. Raffle tickets are also available for purchase.

Enter The Glitz raffle for a chance to win $1000 cash. Sponsorship opportunities are also available.

To purchase gala tickets or become a sponsor, please visit www.givebutter. com/c/DMWB2023 or text GLITZ23 to 53-555.

All proceeds from The Glitz 2023 benefit the educational endeavors of The DuSable Black History Museum and Education Center.

For more information, please contact: Lesley Gool, Esq. 2nd Vice-President Women’s Board of the DuSable Musum lesley.gool@gmail.com 312-497-8833 Founded in 1983, the Women’s Board of The DuSable Black History Museum and Education Center is committed to assisting the Museum with disseminating information about people of African descent. The Women’s Board has remained committed to their ultimate goal of raising over one million dollars to fund educational endeavors of The DuSable Museum.

Suburban Times | Week of November 22, 2023 | 9

SUBURBAN TIMES

Giannoulias Announces Long-Awaited Launch of State’s Monarch Butterfly Plate After more than seven years, Illinois residents who placed deposits for the state’s Monarch Butterfly Specialty License Plate can finally redeem it, Illinois Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias announced recently.

The Monarch Butterfly License Plate is the first Universal Specialty Plate issued by the State of Illinois – even though the General Assembly approved it in 2016.

“This is an important issue, not just because it will positively impact the environment and preserve the Monarch’s cultural significance, but also because it finally makes good on a long-awaited promise,” Giannoulias said. “Government needs to work more efficiently and deliver for its residents, which means people shouldn’t have to wait seven years to get what they paid for.”

“The creation of this special license plate is just one of many ways Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) is committed to Monarch conservation,” said IDNR Director Natalie Phelps Finnie, whose agency administers the fund where proceeds from the plate sales are allocated. “Our staff is engaged with other organizations, state agencies, and the general public to build capacity for putting milkweed and other native plants on the landscape to assist not only monarchs, but all of our native pollinators.”

In 2016, Illinois lawmakers passed legislation to create a “universal” license plate to limit the number of specialty license plates – all designed differently and deemed problematic for law enforcement. At the time, there were 109 different specialty plates.

The legislation stated that any new charitable organization would need at least 2,000 Illinoisans to place deposits that benefitted an organization or charity before any new specialty plate could get issued. Furthermore, the new specialty plates would have a universal, standardized design, but include a decal on the left side depicting the cause or charity it supports.

The Monarch plate reached the necessary 2,000 deposits in 2018, yet it was never produced despite residents having already paid the necessary $10 to pre-order the plate. The money raised from Illinoisans’ deposits goes toward protecting the Monarch from extinction.

On the campaign trail, Giannoulias heard from residents inquiring about the status of the plate, and he committed to ensuring that those who supported the Monarch’s charity get the opportunity to obtain the plate.

“The Monarch Butterfly is meaningful to our state and symbolizes hope and transformation,” said State Representative and Deputy Majority Leader Lisa Hernandez (2nd District-Cicero), who sponsored the Monarch plate legislation in 2016. “This plate allows Illinoisans to support a meaningful cause and advocate for an endangered species. After years of waiting, Illinoisans can finally show their support for saving the Monarchs.”

“The Monarch Butterfly’s habitats need to be preserved, and raising awareness about the importance of this mission is imperative to helping them survive extinction,” said State Senator and Assistant Majority Leader Laura Murphy (28th District-Des Plaines), who sponsored the legislation in the Senate. “The state is finally delivering on its promise to supporters of this important cause. As an important part of

Illinois wildlife, raising awareness about efforts to save them for future generations is essential.”

“Native pollinators, like the iconic Illinois State Insect, the Monarch Butterfly, play a critical role in preserving the biodiversity of our local ecosystems. The Illinois Environmental Council is proud to have played a role in recruiting over 2,000 Illinois Monarch protectors to sign up for the new license plate decal seven years ago, funding the state’s Monarch Habitat Fund,” said IEC Executive Director Jennifer Walling. “Today, we couldn’t be more appreciative of Secretary of State Giannoulias, his office and the Illinois Department of Natural Resources for finally getting this project across the finish line and into the hands of Illinois’ many pollinator protectors.”

“The Monarch’s amazing migration journey from Mexico through Illinois has been endangered by climate change, pesticides and habitat loss,” said Sierra Club Chapter Director Jack Darin. “Illinois is a crucial link in saving this

part of our natural heritage, and we applaud Secretary Giannoulias for his leadership in cutting through years of red tape to finally give Illinois drivers this option to help with the conservation and recovery of this beautiful species.”

The $10 deposits are allocated to the Roadside Monarch Habitat Fund, which is part of the Illinois Department of Natural Resources. If renewed, $23 of the universal special license plate renewal fee will benefit the fund. The Monarch Butterfly, Illinois’ state insect, is considered endangered.

The fund helps foster habitats to support the butterflies during their twice-yearly migratory journey from Mexico to Chicago with a goal to add 150 million new milkweed stems and other nectar resources to the Illinois landscape in the next 15 years.

The Monarch Butterfly plate is available to order at ilsos.gov/monarch or by calling (217) 785-0005.

Are you 55 and Older Caring for a Child Under 18 or Loved One (19-59) with a Disability?

Grandparents or Older Relatives Raising Children Program FREE support services include:

Education & Training: Learn about topics such as legal services, financial literacy, and strategies to support the emotional and educational development of the child.

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Support Groups: Share your stories, challenges, & successes caring for your loved ones.

Contact the DFSS Senior Services Division Information and Assistance Unit aging@cityofchicago.org • (312) 744-4016

DFSS

Department of Family and Support Services

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ENTERTAINMENT

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Suburban Times | Week of November 22, 2023

SUBURBAN TIMES

JANELLE MONÁE

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JOINS MILK TO CELEBRATE FEMALE MARATHONERS IN NYC NEW YORK, PRNewswire -- Milk, as in real dairy marathon training and recovery. Milk’s nutrients can help provide sustained energy to fuel runs, rehydrate with milk, proudly returned to New York bringing back the electrolytes, repair and rebuild muscles, and help prevent ‘26.2 You’re Gonna Need Milk for That’ campaign in an next day muscle soreness. To learn more about dairy effort to support and sponsor every woman running milk’s benefits for runners or the 26.2 You’re Gonna Need the marathon over the weekend.

Milk for That campaign’s commitment to support female As part of the campaign’s unparalleled support marathoners, visit gonnaneedmilk.com. for Team Milk runners before, during and after the The Milk Processor Education Program (MilkPEP), race, Milk surprised runners after the finish line with Washington, D.C., is funded by the nation’s milk compathe electrifying presence of Janelle Monáe at the Team nies, and dedicated to educating consumers and increasMilk VIP Recovery Lounge. The singer-songwriter and ing consumption of fluid milk. For more information, visit actor helped female runners celebrate the incredible MilkPEP.org. accomplishment of running a marathon with an Founded in 1996 with 13 girls, Girls on the Run, an inempowering DJ set within the VIP Recovery Lounge ternational nonprofit organization, has now served which also featured professional stretchers from NY over 2.25 million girls. Over the course of the Stretch, compression boots, recovery gear and chocoprogram, girls in 3rd-8th grade develop late milk to help repair and rebuild their muscles. essential social, emotional and physical Milk’s on-site marathon presence in New York skills to successfully navigate life expemarked a continuation of the program’s Sponsorship riences. The program culminates with Tour, which started last year in New York and has girls positively impacting their comcontinued to expand into a community of more than Janelle Monáe surprises Team Milk runners with munities through a service project 14,000 Team Milk runners. From pre-race shakeout private DJ set. MilkPEP. and being physically and emotionruns in Central Park led by certified run coach Alysha empowering girls through running and ally prepared to complete a celebraFlynn and Sad Girl Track Club’s Izzy Seidel, expert advice physical activity. Milk’s ‘Every. Woman. tory 5K event. With the largest 5K along their training journey, curated race-ready gifts, and Sponsored’ fund supports Girls on the series by number of events in the a community focused IRL expo experience, Milk provided Run with the development of a new world, Girls on the Run hosts more support at every mile along the way. And literally, along the suite of curricula designed to empower, than 330 5Ks per year. Girls on the marathon route, Milk created a milky white tunnel of moinspire and motivate young girls and proRun is included as a top research-based tivation with a Cheer Squad between mile 23 and 24 - the vide them with confidence through runprogram in a Social-Emotional Learning notoriously hardest part of the course to help power runners ning. To-date Milk has helped generate Guide developed by researchers at forward when they need it most. $1,000,000 in fundraising.

Harvard University and has been recJanelle Monae Teams Up With Milk to “Milk is dedicated to championing the strength and reWhether you’re training for your ognized by the National Afterschool Surprise Marathon Runners. MilkPEP silience of every woman,” said MilkPEP CEO Yin Woon Rani. first marathon or tackling your 30th, any Association (NAA) as one of the most “We were excited to join forces with Janelle Monáe to help female runner can sign up to be a part influential after-school programs. commend these incredible female athletes on achieving an of Team Milk at gonnaneedmilk.com/26.2 to gain exclusive Visit www.girlsontherun.org to learn how to get involved in accomplishment of a lifetime.” access to female-centric marathon training, recovery, and your community. National Afterschool Association (NAA) Even better, through Milk’s continued partnership as one of the most influential after-school programs. Visit nutrition tips from leading experts, custom gear and an with Girls on the Run, your run supports her run. For every www.girlsontherun.org to learn how to get involved in your empowering community of women runners. woman that signs up for Team Milk, Milk has committed to community. donating to Girls on the Run, an organization dedicated to Dairy milk is an excellent nutritional partner for both

FENDER HONORS BRUNO MARS WITH ARTIST SIGNATURE STRATOCASTER® GUITAR HOLLYWOOD, Calif., PRNewswire -- Fender Musical nated music charts with the hit single “Uptown Funk,” Instruments Corporation (FMIC) announces the launch of which took home three GRAMMY Awards, including the Bruno Mars Stratocaster®, a limited-edition celebration Record of the Year. In 2022, Mars and Anderson .Paak of the chart-topping artist, multi-instrumentalist, performer, his Silk Sonic counterpart, took home four GRAMMY songwriter and producer Bruno Mars. awards including Record Of The Year The Bruno Mars Stratocaster® guitar (“Leave The Door Open”), Song Of The pays tribute to his trailblazing career, Year (“Leave The Door Open”), Best dazzling showmanship, and mastery R&B Performance (“Leave The Door of genre through the power of guitar.

Open”), and Best R&B Song (“Leave Bruno Mars’ catalog is defined by air The Door Open”). Additionally, Mars tight songwriting, stunning musicianbecame the first male and third act overall to have at least three top 5 Hot ship and a fearlessness in the face of 100 hits from each of his first three genre and at the foundation of this albums, following only Mariah Carey iconic body of work is a fundamental and Beyoncé. Honorably, Mars is one appreciation of versatile musicality. of the few artists to have written and The Bruno Mars Signature Stratocaster® has classic appeal with highly op- P R N e w s f o t o / F e n d e r M u s i c a l produced all of his No. 1 hits and has had a No. 1 song on the Hot 100 from timized features that keep the modern Instruments each of his first three studio albums. player in mind. Mars envisioned an The Bruno Mars Signature Strainstrument with class that could still appeal to the most technically driven shredders—and tocaster® is meticulously crafted with songwriters and this signature guitar is just that. performers in mind. It’s a guitar that empowers artists to Fourteen-time GRAMMY Award winner and unleash their creativity and self-expression. Featuring thirty-time GRAMMY Award nominee Bruno Mars is a the newest addition to Fender’s vibrant library of colorcelebrated singer, songwriter, producer, and musician ways, the all new Mars Mocha Heirloom™ nitrocellulose who has sold over 200 million singles worldwide, maklacquer finish, and Heirloom™ Aged Gold Hardware, gives this signature Strat® a worn-in feel straight out of ing him one of the best-selling artists of all time. The the case. An accurate recreation of Mars’ beloved 1969 17x Multi-Platinum has earned an astonishing eight Stratocaster® neck shape, the Bruno Mars Signature No. 1 hits on Billboard’s Hot 100. In 2015, Bruno domi-

Stratocaster® features sleek, vintage elements, designed to be both played and admired. The 2-Point Synchronized Tremolo and Deluxe Locking Tuners provide enhanced tuning stability with modern convenience and the worn-in, Heirloom™ finish as well as the subtle leopard print accents, are nods to two of Mars’ guitar playing heroes—Jimi Hendrix and Prince. Finally, the model comes loaded with a set of custom-voiced Bruno Mars pickups that will allow players to emulate Mars’ buoyant tone and singing leads. With this Stratocaster® design and sound, guitarists everywhere have access to unlock endless creativity that helped turn Mars the artist, producer and songwriter he is today.

In true tradition, Fender’s Artist Signature Series honors iconic musicians through product progression and storytelling, creating instruments inspired by the unique specifications of the world’s greatest guitarists and bassists.

Crafted from resonant ash, this guitar features sculpted American Ultra body contours for unmatched comfort and seamless access to high notes, watch Artur Menezes the Limited Edition Bruno Mars Stratocaster for a test drive.

Bruno Mars Stratocaster® Guitar ($2,999.99 USD, £3,149.00 GBP, €3,599.00EUR, $5,199.00 AUD, ¥431,200 JPY) Get ready to channel your inner 24K Magic with the irresistibly elegant Bruno Mars Stratocaster®. For technical specs, additional information on new Fender products and to find a retail partner near you, visit www.fender. com. Join the conversation on social media by following @Fender.

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CSTSuburban Weekly 1 Times | Week of November 22, 2023

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Classifieds REAL ESTATE

AC 11-8-2023 IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF COOK COUNTY, ILLINOIS COUNTY DEPARTMENT - CHANCERY DIVISION WILMINGTON TRUST NATIONAL ASSOCIATION NOT IN ITS INDIVIDUAL CAPACITY BUT SOLELY AS TRUSTEE FOR MFRA TRUST 2015-1 Plaintiff, vs. BETTY JONES; Defendants, 15 CH 1368 NOTICE OF SALE PUBLIC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered in the above entitled cause Intercounty Judicial Sales Corporation will on Tuesday, December 12, 2023 at the hour of 11 a.m. in their office at 120 West Madison Street, Suite 718A, Chicago, Illinois, sell at public auction to the highest bidder for cash, as set forth below, the following described mortgaged real estate: P.I.N. 31-13201-008-0000. Commonly known as 20020 Western Avenue, Olympia Fields, IL 60461. The mortgaged real estate is improved with a single family residence. If the subject mortgaged real estate is a unit of a common interest community, the purchaser of the unit other than a mortgagee shall pay the assessments required by subsection (g-1) of Section 18.5 of the Condominium Property Act. Sale terms: 10% down by certified funds, balance, by certified funds, within 24 hours. No refunds. The property will NOT be open for inspection. For information call Mr. Matthew C. Abad at Plaintiff's Attorney, Altman, Strautins & Kromm, LLC d/b/a Kluever Law Group, 200 North LaSalle Street, Chicago, Illinois 60601. (312) 236-0077.

FAY000025-20FC1 INTERCOUNTY JUDICIAL SALES CORPORATION intercountyjudicialsales.com I3232062 _______________________________________ AC 11-15-2023 IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF COOK COUNTY, ILLINOIS COUNTY DEPARTMENT - CHANCERY DIVISION FREEDOM MORTGAGE CORPORATION Plaintiff, -v.- BENNIE J ROBINSON Defendants 22 CH 10221 505 ANTIETAM STREET PARK FOREST, IL 60466 NOTICE OF SALE PUBLIC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered in the above cause on February 1, 2023, an agent for The Judicial Sales Corporation, will at 10:30 AM on December 22, 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 505 ANTIETAM STREET, PARK FOREST, IL 60466 Property Index No. 31-23-435-008-0000 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. The property will NOT be 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 RIGHT TO REMAIN IN POSSESSION FOR 30 DAYS AFTER ENTRY OF 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.

MCCALLA RAYMER LEIBERT PIERCE, LLC Plaintiff's Attorneys, One North Dearborn Street, Suite 1200, Chicago, IL, 60602. Tel No. (312) 3469088. THE JUDICIAL SALES CORPORATION One South Wacker Drive, 24th Floor, Chicago, IL 60606-4650 (312) 236-SALE You can also visit The Judicial Sales Corporation at www.tjsc.com for a 7 day status report of pending sales.

MCCALLA RAYMER LEIBERT PIERCE, LLC One North Dearborn Street, Suite 1200 Chicago IL, 60602 312-346-9088 E-Mail: pleadings@mccalla.com Attorney File No. 2212897IL Attorney Code. 61256 Case Number: 22 CH 10221 TJSC#: 43-600 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 # 22 CH 10221 I3232385 _______________________________________

REAL ESTATE DON'T LOSE YOUR PROPERTY TO FORECLOSURE. Put money back into your pocket. Here is how you can win. CALL US AFTER 10am AT (708)378-7324 ASK FOR DIANA (ILLINOIS HOUSING SERVICE.INC). _______________________________________

DOGS PETS LIVESTOCK Happy Jack® Liquiavict 2x® is recognized safe & effective against hook & round worms by the USCVM. Double strength, 3 year stability. At Tractor Supply® (www.happyjackinc.com) _______________________________________

LEGAL NOTICE PUBLIC NOTICE Notice is hereby given, pursuant to “An Act in relation to the use of an Assumed Business Name in the conduct or transaction of Business in the State,” as amended, that a certification was registered by the undersigned with the County Clerk of Cook County. Registration Number: Y23011126 on October 24, 2023. Under the Assumed Business name of ALL 4 HIS GLORY with the business located at: 454 SPRINGFIELD ST., PARK FOREST, ILLINOIS 60466. The true and real full name(s) and residence address of the owner(s)/partner(s) is: Owner/Partner Full Name KENNETH LEONARD PHILLIPS Complete Address 454 SPRINGFIELD ST., PARK FOREST, ILLINOIS 60466, USA and SUZETTE RENE’ PHILLIPS Complete Address 454 SPRINGFIELD ST., PARK FOREST, ILLINOIS 60466, USA _______________________________________

classified 11

SUBURBAN TIMES

TECHNOLOGY

‘Tis the Season for Scams: 5 Ways to Protect You and Your Family

(Statepoint) In today’s hyper-connected digital universe, cyber criminals have more information than ever before, with the ability to reach you through unsecure public Wi-Fi, your email inbox, via text message, and more.

According to a Scam and Robocall Report from T-Mobile, Americans lost an estimated $39.5 billion to phone scams in 2022. Lucky for you, there are several ways to protect and safeguard your personal information to help prevent scammers from scammin’ this holiday season.

1. Avoid Public USB Ports: Traveling by plane this holiday season? The FCC warns that cyber criminals can download malware to public USB charging ports to gain access to your information. Prevent this by using an AC power outlet instead.

2. Beware of Charity Scams: It’s the season of giving, but the FCC warns many cyber criminals take advantage by creating fake charities staged as real nonprofit organizations to gain access to your payment information. Woof. To prevent this, don’t click on suspicious email or text links and verify the organization is registered at the National Association of State Charity Officials or Better Business Bureau’s Wise Giving Alliance before donating this holiday season.

3. Screen Your Calls: Scammers are continuously upping their game, with total robocall attempts up 75% from 2021 to 2022. Detecting whether an incoming call is a potential scam isn’t always easy, but T-Mobile’s Scam Shield app makes it simple. Free to all T-Mobile customers, Scam Shield enhances your scam-blocking protections so you can say goodbye to scam calls. In 2022 alone, Scam Shield identified or blocked 41.5 billion scam calls in the T-Mobile network. That’s a whopping 1,317 calls identified or blocked every second. With Scam Shield, when the network detects a potential scam call, it is flagged and displayed as “Scam Likely” on your device.

Customers who want even more protection can download the Scam Shield app or dial #662# from their T-Mobile smartphone to enable Scam Block, which automatically blocks any calls that match the database of scam calls. Take that, tricksters.

To learn more, visit t-mobile.com/scamshield.

4. Shop Smarter Online: According to Statista, 57% of holiday shoppers plan to use their smartphone to make holiday purchases this year, and scammers are onto them, ramping up activity during the two weeks before Christmas. To minimize any cyber Grinches trying to steal your personal info, monitor your financial accounts regularly for suspicious charges and sign up for your bank or credit card company’s text or email notifications to stay on top of fraudulent activity.

5. Use Secure Tools: Safeguard your

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

online accounts with Multi-Factor Authentication, which requires users to enter two different kinds of information to log in, like a password and one-time PIN code. It’s like having a digital bouncer to make sure only you get into your accounts. Another protection is a password manager, giving you the ability to securely store passwords across multiple platforms and websites. The tool also provides an autofill password function and a new password

generator.

To learn more about the industry’s top fraud trends and how to stay protected from scammers year-round, check out T-Mobile’s Scam Shield Report found at t-mobile.com/news.

While cyber threats are on the rise, you can sleigh scams by staying vigilant and incorporating these best practices into your life this holiday season.

12 | Suburban Times | Week of November 22, 2023

SUBURBAN TIMES