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Beaches® Resorts Welcomes The Elf On The Shelf® Scout Elf® To Sunny Shores This Holiday Season

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Week of December 6, 2023

P4 FREE | VOL 7 | ISSUE 16

The Illinois Supreme Court is pictured in Springfield. (Capitol News Illinois PHOTO BY ANDREW CAMPBELL)

STATE HIGH COURT SKEPTICAL MUNICIPAL POLICE AND FIRE PENSION CONSOLIDATION

HURT RETIREES’ VOTING RIGHTS PENSIONERS CHALLENGED 2019 LAW THAT CONSOLIDATED 649 FUNDS FOR HIGHER RETURNS

The Illinois Supreme Court on Tuesday heard arguments in a case alleging the state’s 2019 law that consolidated nearly 650 individual police and firefighter pension funds actually hurt retirees by diluting their voting power.

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Keke Palmer’s “Cool Glam” Eyewear Collection with Zenni® Optical is Here for the Holidays

Afro Unicorn is Excited to Enchant Children Around the World with ‘Magical Gift’

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Suburban Times | Week of December 6, 2023

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State high court skeptical municipaleffect police and fire pension New state laws taking Jan. 1 consolidation hurt retirees’ voting rights Pensioners challenged 2019

Minimum wage hike,consolidated pets in public housing newreturns changes law that 649 funds among for higher Continued frompage page 11 Continued from

BY PETER HANCOCK Capitol News Illinois phancock@capitolnewsillinois.com

“Isn’t it accurate that even in SPRINGFIELD – Minimum (the 2014 case) wage workers in Illinois will see a talking boost in we their were hourly pay to $12 per hour starting Jan.something 1, while tenants about in affordable housing units will be that…reduced allowed to keep pets.

Those are just of the more thesome financial than 300 new laws that take effect in Justice the new benefit?” year.

TheJoy minimum wage increase is Cunningham actually the result of a 2019 law that asked.

“It minimum was about phases in a state wage to $15money, an hour by not 2025. This year, it” voting. 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 find that voting rights for local pension funds is also a benefit that memHANNAH ofBY Senate Bill 154,MEISEL

by Sen. Linda bers are guaranteed.

CAPITOL NEWS ILLINOIS Holmes, D-Aurora, and Rep. Steph“Isn’t it accurate that even in (the 2014 case) we were talking about HMEISEL@CAPITOLNEWSILLINOIS.COM anie Kifowit, D-Oswego. It provides something that…reduced the financial benefit?” Justice Joy Cunningthat tenants of multifamily housing ham asked.

“It was about money, not voting.”

The Illinois Supreme Court on Tuesday heard arguments in a case units that are acquired, built or renIn 2015, the court unanimously ruled that Illinois’ constitution prealleging the state’s 2019 law that consolidated nearly 650 individual ovated with money from the Illinois vented the General Assembly from enacting a massive pension overhaul police and firefighter funds actually hurt retirees by diluting Affordable Housing Trust pension Fund plan that would’ve cut state retirees’ annual three percent compounded their voting power. may keep up to two cats or one dog The nearly three-dozen pensioners and 17 individual pension funds cost of living adjustments – one of the main drivers of the state’s evweighing less than 50 pounds. er-growing unfunded pension liabilities. that sued over the law have already lost twice in lower court. But their It applies to residents of housing Chief Justice Mary Jane Theis, the only justice left who was on the attorney on Tuesday was insistent the retired police and firefighters units that are designated as affordwere wronged when Gov. JB Pritzker signed the law – passed with over- court a decade ago, asked the bulk of questions to Konicek, and even able housing for low- and majorities very-low- in the General Assembly – that consoli- toward the end of his rebuttal still was unclear about the “benefit” he whelming bipartisan income families.

The bill passed was arguing was impaired in this case. dated the 649 funds into two. both chambers in itsPritzker final formsigns on pension consolidation bill into law “So again – let’s be real clear – what is the benefit that has been Read more: May 30The andpair Gov.of JBfunds Pritzker diminished?” Theis asked. “That members no longer have a vote as to – signed one that manages pensions for retired poitlice intoand law the Aug.other 6. for retired firefighters – were consolidated in order who makes the investment decisions?”

Other new include: Konicek affirmed her assertion before wrapping up his arguments. for them tolaws access bigger investments previously not available to the Vehicle taxes: SB58 raises the pri-funds, all in the hopes of yielding larger Assistant Attorney General Richard Huszagh sought to further bolhundreds of small individual vate vehicle tax, which is a sales tax ster justices’ apparent skepticism about financial benefits to pensioners returns. paid on the purchase of vehicles, by not being affected by the law.

Read more: Task force recommends merging 649 local pension “It does not reduce by a penny the payments made to any mem$75 for each model year where the funds purchase price is less than $15,000 Consolidation also eliminated administrative costs paid out of the ber,” he said, further noting the individual pension funds are still able to determine for themselves whether, for example, a member is eligible for and by $100 for vehiclesfunds. priced individual pension disability, and the formula for those payments.

But attorney Daniel Konicek said his clients’ objection wasn’t about above that amount. However, the Huszagh also told the justices that Konicek and his clients are “askthe money, their say in how the money is managed. registration feebut for rather trailers weighing ing the court to overrule 50 years of its own precedent” that he argues “It 3,000 completely, undeniably less than pounds will drop to diluted their ability to put people on a defines “very clearly” what benefits are and are not protected by Illinois’ five-person board that they knew, versus these new boards of people $36 instead of $118. constitution. that are statewide and (they) don’t know,” Konicek told the justices.

College admissions: HB226, He warned that the court ruling in the plaintiffs’ favor would “open But nearly before he was done speaking, Justice Mary K. O’Brien establishing the Higher Education up a giant can of worms” as such a ruling would then call into question cut in.

Fair Admissions Act, prohibits that impact whether or not they get a check at the end of many other changes made to pension fund administration in the last public“How collegesdoes and universities 50 years since the state constitution was ratified – including a state law the month on the 19th of the month?” she asked. from requiringorapplicants to submit that requires pension funds to hire investment advisors.

Konicek didn’t directly answer, noting that interpretation was what SAT, ACT or other standardized test “Well, that would be unconstitutional because somebody would the lower courts had relied on.

Instead, he urged the justices to look at scores as part of the admissions proconsider it a benefit not to have investment advisors and not to incur the court’s previous decisions in pension-related cases, particularly in cess, although prospective students those expenses,” Huszagh said. “There’s no stopping point for where the last decade. may choose to submit them if they In 2014, for example, six of the seven justices on the court ruled the they want to go with this case.” wish. “pension protection clause” in Illinois’ constitution prevented the state Drug prices: SB1682 requires Capitol News Illinois is a nonprofit, nonpartisan news service covfrom reducing health care benefits to retirees. The constitution stipupharmacies to post a notice inlates that membership in any government retirement system in Illinois ering state government. It is distributed to hundreds of newspapers, raforming consumers that they may relationship, the benefits of which shall dio and TV stations statewide. It is funded primarily by the Illinois Press is “an enforceable contractual request current pharmacy retail Foundation and the Robert R. McCormick Foundation, along with major not be diminished or impaired.” prices So, at the point ofargued, sale. contributions from the Illinois Broadcasters Foundation and Southern Konicek in ruling that the pension protection clause FOID card changes: HB562 extends to more than justenpension benefits alone, the court should also Illinois Editorial Association. acts 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 Cook County, Ill. -toThe Cook County Board of Commissioneight of ten maternal deaths are preventable, and we need to allows the Illinois State Police ersapassed FY2024 be doing everything we can to avoid these deaths and keep issue combinedthe FOID card andbudget, which included two amendments championed Commissioner Donna Miller secure safe.Illinois By increasing and social services, Concealed Carry License toby qualiGov. JB Pritzker is shown hereto earlier this year in awomen Capitol News file photo. Thedoula governor signed moresupport than funding and fora veterans and wefile can make real steps towards ensuring women in Cook 300 bills thatpregnant become law women on Jan. 1. to (Capitol News Illinois photo) fied applicants, andsupport it establishes reduce mortality County don’t lose their lives during pregnancy and childbirth.” new Violentmaternal Crime Intelligence Task rates. One amendment, Number 9, provides funding for increased benefits for Cook County Asauthorities part of from her broader efforts toJune, address disparities in United States. In President Joe its public health to the appropriate school support Force to take enforcement action veterans to address the increased need for aid and support healthcare that result in worse outcomes for Black women, Biden also signed a bill designating regulating or shutting down lemonpersonnel. against people with revoked FOID services. Amendment NumberOfficial 19 will fund doula and social Miller a hearing on maternal Juneteenth as a federal holiday. mortality in ade standsCommissioner or similar operations that held flags: HB605 requires cards. support services in the Ambulatory and Community June.

She has championed the issue of maternal mortality as are operated by children under the state agencies and institutions toHealth Student mental health: HB576 Network andstudents Stroger Hospital to help improve maternal Illinois a maternal mortality Capitol Newshad Illinois is a age of 16.reports Known asshow “Hayli’sthat Law,”in 2020, purchase Illinois and American flags morand SB1577 allow in Illitality and morbidity rates in that Cook County. rate of 23 deaths per 100,000 live births.

For Black women, nonprofit, nonpartisan news it was inspired by 12-year-old Hayli are made in the United States. nois up to five excused absences to “Our budget should reflect our values, and that’s why IMartinez,that rate was six times higher — surpassing the national averwhose lemonade stand in service covering state government Hair styles: SB817 prohibits attend to their mental or behavioral was proud to sponsor amendments to this year’s Cook County age. and distributed to more than 400 Kankakee was shut down by local discrimination in schools against health without providing a medical budget that support our veterans and invest in lowering our Commissioner Miller has also prioritized supporting newspapers statewide. It is funded officials. individuals on the grounds of note. Those students will be given maternal mortality rate,” said Cook County Commissioner veterans in Cook County as the Chairwoman of the Veterans primarily by the Illinois Press Juneteenth: HB3922 recognizwearing natural or ethnic hairstyles, anDonna opportunity to make up any Miller. “Our veterans have put their lives on the line Committee. In March, she joined forces with former Governor Foundation and the Robert R. es June 19, or “Juneteenth,” as an which include dreadlocks, braids, work they missed during the first for our country, and deserve access to resources for them and Pat Quinn to bring the Portrait of a Soldier exhibit to the Cook Foundation. official state holiday that commemtwists and afros. absence and, after using a second their families. This additional funding will help us fill gaps County Building, a localMcCormick artist’s work showcasing Illinois serorates the end of slavery in the Lemonade stands: SB119 prohibmental health day, may be referred that currently exist in the services we provide. More than vice members who have been killed since September 11, 2001.

Cook County Board of Commissioners Pass Budget Amendments Sponsored by Commissioner Donna Miller to Support Veterans, Address Maternal Mortality

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Suburban Times | Week of December 6, 2023

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SUBURBAN TIMES

NATIONAL NEWS

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ASME Foundation Honors STEM NOLA Founder and CEO Calvin Mackie, Ph.D., at New Orleans Event The engineering community recently honored Dr. Calvin Mackie, engineer, advocate, entrepreneur and founder and CEO of STEM NOLA, for his leadership of the organization in reaching more than 125,000 children in more than 5,100 schools across the U.S. and five other countries with STEM programming. The American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME) recognized Mackie’s vision and dedication with the donation of a 2024 scholarship for a STEM NOLA Fellow, the ASME Foundation announced at a gala event held Nov. 2 in New Orleans.

“ASME is proud to donate this scholarship in honor of Dr. Mackie,” said Oscar STEM NOLA Barton, Jr., Ph.D., dean of the engineering school at Morgan State University, member The ASME Foundation will award a one-time, of the ASME Foundation Board of Directors, and $5,000 scholarship to a high school senior activean ASME Fellow. “For over ten years, STEM NOLA ly participating in the STEM NOLA Fellows Proand its extraordinary programs have created new gram and aiming to pursue an engineering degree dreams for young people who may otherwise at an accredited four-year college or university never have discovered the wonders of STEM — starting Fall 2024. Scholarship applications open and the world may have otherwise missed the Dec. 1. life-changing contributions they will bring.”

“Dr. Mackie shares our vision for a more

diverse engineering workforce and a new generation of innovators and problem-solvers who represent the full spectrum of humanity,” said ASME Executive Director/CEO Tom Costabile. “In fact, Calvin and I are currently thinking through creative ways that we might be able to collaborate on some new initiatives together in the future.”

Other speakers included ASME Fitzroy Medal recipient Dr. Gwendolyn E. Boyd, ASME Fellow and former Jackson State University President Dr. Carolyn Meyers, and New Orleans Regional Transit Authority CEO Lona Edwards Hankins.

“I am truly honored to receive this recognition from ASME,” said Mackie.

“This acknowledgment not only reflects my personal journey but also highlights the crucial intersection of innovation and STEM education.

I look forward to the future partnership between ASME and STEM NOLA, working hand in hand to inspire and empower the next generation of diverse, talented young minds in STEM. Thank you, ASME, for your commitment to building the next

Kwanzaa and Holiday Specials Highlight December Programming at the National Museum of African American History and Culture The Smithsonian’s National Museum of African Amer- free and enslaved African Americans gathered, many in se- screening will be livestreamed. The event is free; however, ican History and Culture (NMAAHC) celebrates Kwanzaa cret, to ring in the new year and await news that the Eman- registration is required.

Kwanzaa & Watch Night: Visions of Freedom throughout December. From Dec. 26 through Jan. 1, 2024, cipation Proclamation would take effect on Jan. 1, 1863.

Saturday, Dec. 30, 11 a.m. – 3 p.m. ET NMAAHC will feature its first- Kwanzaa display in HeriAdditional December programming includes a panel Explore More! Gallery, L2; History Galleries, Condiscussion of the documentary Stamped From the Begintage Hall, including a kinara, mkeka mat, and a Kwanzaa playlist. ning, based on Dr. Ibram X. Kendi’s New York Times best- course Created in 1966 by Maulana Ron Karenga, Kwanzaa is seller, and a screening and panel discussion of American Kwanzaa is a celebration created to provide a cultural an African American and Pan-Afrigrounding in and a reaffirmation of African American culFiction, written and directed by Cord Jefferson and based on the 2001 novel can holiday that celebrates history, ture. During this event, participate in activities that honor Erasure by Percival Everett. values, family, community and the last three principles of Kwanzaa – Kuumba (creativiFrom Dec. 22 to Jan. 4, 2024, the culture. An annual celebration ty), Imani (faith) and Nia (purpose). The museum will also Sweet Home Café presents Executive beginning the day after Christmas, have special activities that focus on the history of Watch Chef Ramin Coles’ holiday menu, which Night, and visitors can learn more about the role of the Dec. 26 and continuing through includes beef pot roast, herb roasted Jan. 1, Kwanzaa emphasizes seven Black Colored Troops in the Civil War. The event is free; Cornish hen, smoked ham hock succoprinciples, written in the language however, registration is required. of Swahili: Umoja (Unity), KujichOn View at the Museum tash, scalloped potatoes, spoon bread, Green coat worn by Oprah Winfrey as Sofia in The and more. Visit the museum’s website for agulia (Self-Determination), Ujima Color Purple details.

(Collective Work and ResponsibiliOn view in the “Taking the Stage” exhibition The museum also continues the ty), Ujamaa (Cooperative EconomThe full-length, long-sleeved, single-breasted coat is Dine & Shop Pass program in December. ics), Nia (Purpose), Kuumba (Cremade from a dark green wool tweed plaid. The coat closes Visitors can reserve a Dine and Shop ativity), and Imani (Faith). Kwanzaa at the front with five large round olive fabric-covered butPass for specified entry to the Sweet gets its name from the Swahili phrase, “matunda ya kwanza” and tons that fasten using loops of black cord sewn to the edge Pinback button celebrating the seven Home Café or to shop in the museum is rooted in first fruit celebrations of the proper right front. principles of Kwanzaa. Credit: Collec- store, from 11 a.m. – 2:30 p.m. Visitors tion of the Smithsonian’s National can reserve up to four Dine & Shop found in cultures throughout Africa Black dress worn by Oprah Winfrey as Sofia in The Museum of African American History passes per day and can reserve up to in both ancient and modern times.

Color Purple and Culture. seven days in advance. In observation Virtual visitors can check the museOn view in the “Taking the Stage” exhibition of Christmas, the museum is closed on The short-sleeved shift dress is made from a single um’s website for more information December 25. piece of black rayon-cotton blend satin that is folded in about Kwanzaa, including history December Programming Highlights half at the shoulder and seamed down each side, with a and traditions, recipes and a reading list.

Through the African American Lens: American Fiction neck hole cut at the fold.

Dec. 16 marks the 20th anniversary of signing the Friday, Dec. 8, 7 p.m. ET Since opening Sept. 24, 2016, the National Museum of federal legislation that created NMAAHC. The museum Oprah Winfrey Theater African American History and Culture has welcomed more is commemorating this milestone by posting an interacJoin us for a screening of American Fiction, written than 10 million visitors. Occupying a prominent location tive web feature from Dec. 15 through Dec. 25 online at and directed by Cord Jefferson and based on the 2001 next to the Washington Monument on the National Mall nmaahc.si.edu that documents 20 key facts about the development of the museum. Through film, still photos and novel Erasure by Percival Everett. Jeffrey Wright stars as in Washington, D.C., the nearly 400,000-square-foot museum is the nation’s largest and most comprehensive computer-generated graphics, the page will exhibit how the Monk, a frustrated novelist who is tired of the establishcultural destination devoted exclusively to exploring, building was constructed, how collections were built, what ment profiting from “Black” entertainment that relies on exhibitions were created and much more. tired and offensive tropes. To prove his point, Monk uses documenting and showcasing the African American story and its impact on American and world history. For more On Dec. 30, guests can attend “Kwanzaa & Watch Night: a pen name to write a satirical “Black” book of his own, Visions of Freedom,” a celebration of both Kwanzaa and which propels him to the heart of hypocrisy and the mad- information about the museum, visit nmaahc.si.edu or Watch Night, a tradition that started on Dec. 31, 1862, when ness he claims to disdain. A panel discussion following the follow @NMAAHC on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram.

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Suburban Times | Week of December 6, 2023

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Beaches® Resorts Welcomes The Elf On The Shelf® Scout Elf®

To Sunny Shores This Holiday Season put the “treat” in butler treatment LAND OF PALM TREES AND 80 DEGREES, PRNewswire -- Holiday carols sung with sun-soaked cheer: that’s the as they gear up for their jolliest task sound of Scout Elf® helpers heading South for the winter this yet – pampering Scout Elf friends year. Beaches® Resorts ushers in the magic of the season with with special, pint-sized “V.I.E.” (Very Important Scout Elf) surprises ahead an irresistible invitation and “V.I.E.” butler-curated perks for everyone’s favorite Christmastime sidekick to hang their tiny of nights of adventure and trips to the North Pole. Families traveling with hats and bask in a Caribbean winter wonderland.

Joining festive forces with The Lumistella Company – the their Scout Elf in tow and scheduled creators of the beloved annual family tradition The Elf on the to vacation during the month of December in butler-level rooms will Shelf® – Beaches Resorts, the award-winning all-inclusive enjoy “V.I.E”. - Very Important Scout resort brand for families, is rolling out the candy cane carpet Elf - treats such as Moonlight Milk & for families and Scout Elf friends alike at all three Beaches Resorts located in Jamaica and Turks & Caicos. The elf-tastic Cookies, Marshmallow Bubble Baths, happenings kick off November 24 – marking the official start Festive Trail Mix and a Holiday Movie Night-In. Guests’ butlers will also be of Scout Elf Return Week (Nov 22 – Dec 1) and a whimsical on call with Santa-approved gloves white sand holiday season at Beaches.

“Holidays are the season for family memory-making and and magic elf moving tongs should a for many, The Elf on the Shelf brand has become a most loved Scout Elf doze off to the warm Cariband anticipated part of their annual traditions,” said Luisana bean breeze. It happens!

All Traditions Start Somewhere Suegart, Director of Public Relations for Unique Vacations, For Beaches Resorts guests who Inc., an affiliate of the worldwide representative for Beaches Resorts. “It’s why we’re especially grateful to Santa for giving want to experience the magic of The Beaches Resorts his Scout Elf helpers the permission to join families at Beaches Elf on the Shelf for the first time, The this holiday season, and we can’t wait to roll out the red carpet Elf on the Shelf tradition, The Elf on to win a six-night vacation at either Beaches Negril in Jamaica the Shelf Official Scout Elf Carrier, for them with special treats and activities during their stay or Beaches Turks and Caicos, along with additional festive and other items will be available at all resort retail shops. with us.” goodies including a The Elf on the Shelf tradition and The Elf Gifting Toys and Spreading Joy: Beaches Resorts’ Little With winding waterslides and unlimited ice cream in on the Shelf Official Scout Elf Carrier. store, guests can anticipate Scout Elf stunts galore. In the spir- Helpers “We are thrilled! The Lumistella Company’s partnership Families participating in The Elf on the Shelf festivities it of all things merry and bright, Beaches Resorts is celebrating can join the Beaches family in spreading the true meaning of with Beaches Resorts represents two iconic brands coming with all things festive from day to night: together to create enormously joyful family moments,” said the holiday season by supporting the philanthropic work of Beaches Resorts’ Sweet Island Soiree ft. The Elf on the the not-for-profit Sandals Foundation. Every year, the Sandals Christa Pitts, co-CEO of The Lumistella Company. “This Shelf collaboration will allow us to provide guests at Beaches with Boasting Santa’s (passport) stamp of approval, his Scout Foundation works to provide 15,000 toys to children across the Caribbean and this year, guests can become “Beaches Lit- a dose of Christmas magic, The Elf on the Shelf style, and Elf crew will rock around the palm trees during Beaches Resorts’ Sweet Island Soiree ft. The Elf on the Shelf – weekly tle Helpers” by volunteering to craft hand-made holiday cards delight both the young and the young at heart.”

To make the Scout Elf season even more fun, families are holiday parties featuring The Elf on the Shelf characters, build- to be distributed to local children. encouraged to share their Scout Elf’s most creative and imagUnwind After the Holidays with the “Beaches Resorts your-own cookie bars, arts and crafts stations, music and inative tropical-themed holiday antics on social media using more. Holiday story time sessions, festive karaoke and other and The Elf on the Shelf” Vacation Sweepstakes the hashtag #ScoutElfAtBeaches and tagging @BeachesReWhen the tree comes down and all is said and done, soul-stirring happenings will indulge every Scout Elf with sorts and @ElfonTheShelf. there’s a chance to win some post-holiday Caribbean fun. vacation whimsy.

For more information about Beaches Resorts and The Elf Sugar, Spice and Everything Nice: Rolling Out the Candy From November 24 – December 30, families across North America and the U.K. are invited to enter the Beaches Resorts on the Shelf holiday happenings, visit www.beaches.com/ Cane Carpet with Very Important Scout Elf Treatment the-elf-on-the-shelf. and The Elf on the Shelf Vacation Sweepstakes for a chance In true Beaches Resorts fashion, Beaches butlers will

Salinda Resort, Where Luxury Meets Nature In The Heart Of Phu Quoc Island, Vietnam PHU QUOC, Vietnam, PRNewswire -- Nestled on the sunset-kissed shores of the west coast of Phu Quoc, Salinda Resort stands as a beacon of soulful hospitality and charm. This boutique beach resort isn’t just a destination; it’s a captivating journey where luxury meets nature.

Salinda crafts an enchanting tapestry of modern comfort woven with the threads of authentic Vietnamese service. All 121 rooms, suites, and villas aren’t merely spaces; they are reflections of contemporary elegance with a local touch that seamlessly bridges the gap between indoors and the breathtaking natural wonders. Each room is Salinda Resort Phu Quoc Island a canvas, adorned with unique wall art, celeFrom the very inception, sustainability is brating Vietnam’s masterful craftsmanship. embedded within the architecture of Salinda Salinda’s mission goes beyond just offering a Resort with environmentally friendly construcbeach retreat: it extends to ensuring that nature tion materials, such as Accoya wood panels and gets its well-deserved holiday too. Salinda Family thermoregulating stone walls, and the creation of considers itself a fortunate recipient of nature’s multi-leveled gardens covering over 80% of the bounty and wishes to create a socially responsible eco-resort where guests can unwind, knowing that property. It is evident in daily operations with its the team is doing its part to protect their home and own water bottling plant (preventing the use of 2.8 tons of plastic bottles annually), miniature comcontribute to local communities.

posting site to create garden fertilizer and eco-conscious bath amenities. Additionally, the resort invites guests to forge a spiritual connection with the local communities and cherish Vietnamese culture through regular neighborhood clean-ups and volunteering at charity kitchens, self-guided walks through Madame Huyen’s art gallery that features paintings of emerging Vietnamese artists and a library with donated books of previous resort residents.

Opting for a holistic approach, Salinda takes care of the guest’s wellbeing at every turn. By substituting industrialized chlorine with the one from natural salts, the resort’s salt-filtered pool offers a healthy swimming experience. Morning yoga and meditation take place in the mango garden, while every evening a wellness treat is placed on the bedside to prepare guests for a good night rest from locally sourced calming lotus heart tea to relaxing pillow scent.

For a true rejuvenation of both spirit and body this winter, immerse in this unique blend of luxury and sustainability that only Salinda Resort can offer.

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Suburban Times | Week of December 6, 2023

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Keke Palmer’s “Cool Glam” Eyewear Collection with Zenni® Optical

ters that include Iris Apfel, George and Claire Kittle, Cynthia Rowley and more.

For more information about the Keke Palmer x Zenni “Cool Glam” collaboration, visit Zenni.com/Keke and follow for updates on social media at @ZenniOptical.

Zenni pioneered the online eyewear industry in 2003 with a mission to make prescription eyewear affordable and accessible to everyone. Based in the San Francisco Bay Area, Zenni offers adults and children the freedom to express their personal style through high-quality prescription and protective eyewear curated with a sense for fashion and incredible selection. With complete prescription pairs starting at just $6.95, and averaging just over $40, the company has brought massive price disruption to the traditional retail model. With over 51 million frames sold worldwide, Zenni is proud to be the Official Eyewear of the San Francisco 49ers,Columbus Crew and the Chicago Bulls. Zenni has worked with designers and tastemakers on curations and collections, including Keke Palmer, Iris Apfel, Cynthia Rowley and George and Claire Kittle. For more information, please visit zennioptical.com/press.

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Bigger, Bolder, and Phatter than ever – The Creeper Phatty has arrived HERZOGENAURACH, Germany, PRNewswire -- Rihanna’s iconic creeper is finally back. But this time, it’s bigger, bolder and phatter than ever. Imagined, designed, and named by Rihanna, the Creeper Phatty takes the classic Creeper to the extreme with an oversized design, stacked gum sole, and bold pops of color. This new twist on the FENTY x PUMA Creeper is available in three colors for all ages and genders, a full family affair.

Phatty stands for extra confidence, extra style, extra everything. Rihanna’s vision was to bring the Creeper back but in a bold and culturally relevant way. The original Creeper launched back in September of 2015, a platformed version of PUMA’s iconic Suede sneaker. This silhouette was named Shoe of the Year by Footwear News in 2016 and not only transformed sneaker culture but sparked PUMA’s brand impact and relevance over the past decade.

The Crepper Phatty is wrapped in suede, with a padded and debossed formstrip, debossed Fenty logo on the tongue, laces with gold aglets, and a stacked gum sole.

This drop offers three distinct colorways – iconic black and white, extra-bright blue and green, and lavender and cherry red.

“We took our OG Creeper and made it bigger and badder,” said Rihanna. “When designing the Creeper Phatty we wanted to reinvent the OG Creeper that was loved by so many. It’s a classic silhouette that has been missed, so it’s return had to be bigger.”

As Creative Director, Rihanna’s second FENTY x PUMA campaign -- shot by Philippa Price who previously has shot for both Rihanna and PUMA – explores the juxtaposition between a creep and a phatty attitude highlighting the oversized and bright elements of the shoe.

“The original Creeper changed the game for us,” said Maria Valdes, Chief Product Officer at PUMA. “We knew it was time to bring it back. This shoe has universal appeal and we’ve seen tremendous consumer excitement for the silhouette to return.

We are excited to not only be able to build upon the existing silhouette with the Creeper Phatty but also expand our offering to the entire family.”

The FENTY x PUMA Creeper Phatty will be available worldwide on puma.com and global retailers including Foot Locker.

PUMA is one of the world’s leading sports brands, designing, developing, selling and marketing footwear, apparel and accessories. For 75 years, PUMA has relentlessly pushed sport and culture forward by creating fast products for the world’s fastest athletes. PUMA offers performance and sport-inspired lifestyle products in categories such as Football, Running and Training, Basketball, Golf, and Motorsports. It collaborates with renowned designers and brands to bring sport influences into street culture and fashion. The PUMA Group owns the brands PUMA, Cobra Golf and stichd. The company distributes its products in more than 120 countries, employs about 20,000 people worldwide, and is headquartered in Herzogenaurach/Germany.

PUMA

is Here for the Holidays

NOVATO, Calif., PRNewswire -- Zenni Optical, the world’s leading online eyewear retailer, and Emmy® Award-winning actress, musician, producer and style icon, Keke Palmer, are back with their newest eyewear drop, just in time for the holiday season. Aptly named “Cool Glam,” the collection represents Palmer’s fearless and show-stopping attitude, offering practical fashion fused with glamor.

Palmer’s “Cool Glam” collection is her most luxurious and chic yet, introducing a range of frames showcasing cool tones, hints of sparkle and jewel accents. The line is meticulously crafted to elevate everyday style – with options from classic premium black sunglasses to frames adorned with elegant metal embellishments. “Cool Glam” seamlessly merges style with versatility, empowering individuals to effortlessly personalize their eyewear with their holiday attire.

“Collaborating with Keke this past year to curate collections that reflect the various facets of her mood and style has been inspiring,” said VeZenni Optical ronica Alcaro, VP Brand of Zenni. “Keke is a trendsetter in her own unique way, radiating vibrancy, boldness and sophistication. We’re excited to continue working together to encourage people to express themselves through fashionable and affordable eyewear.”

The “Cool Glam” collection follows three previous mood releases, all of which embody different aspects of Palmer’s spirit and style: “Nostalgic Grace” – a retro-chic collection of frames filled with elegance and unbreakable confidence.

“Board Certified” – a curation reflective of Palmer’s fierce style and sleek sophistication seen in and outside of the boardroom.

“Summer Love” – a line of vibrant summer styles that captures Palmer’s playful and magnetic personality.

The “Cool Glam” collection can be found exclusively on Zenni.com, with prices starting at just $19.95. All frames can be ordered as sunglasses, with prescription and/or Blokz® blue light-blocking lenses.

The collaboration with Palmer follows Zenni’s recent partnerships with other fashion, sports and pop culture trendset-

FASHION

SUBURBAN TIMES

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6 | Suburban Times | Week of December 6, 2023

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Suburban Times | Week of December 6, 2023 | 7

SUBURBAN TIMES

Gov. Pritzker Celebrates Completion of I-280 Over Mississippi River in Quad Cities ROCK ISLAND— Governor JB Pritzker and the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) were joined by local officials and community leaders to announce the completion of a multiyear project to install a new deck on the Interstate 280 Sgt. John F. Baker Jr. Mississippi River Bridge in Rock Island County, an improvement that will result in a smoother, safer ride on one of the state’s key travel corridors. Made possible by Gov. Pritzker’s historic, bipartisan Rebuild Illinois capital program and a partnership with Iowa, the project included patching and resurfacing east of the bridge for a combined investment of $65.7 million.

“This is exactly what Rebuild Illinois, our state’s massive infrastructure modernization program, is all about: to make life better and easier for our people,” said Governor JB Pritzker. “When we make smart investments in the roadways that working families and businesses rely on, we’re constructing a better future for the entire region — one where parents and their children can commute with confidence and where new factories and distribution centers are choosing to locate in Illinois, so they can reliably ship their products across the nation.”

The Baker Bridge opened in 1973 and today carries more than 28,000 vehicles a day, almost 20% of which are trucks. The new deck is the first replacement since the bridge opened.

A $49.7 million project began in 2021 with the demolition and replacement of the westbound bridge deck, followed by the eastbound bridge deck in 2022. The final stage of the project, which patched and resurfaced I-280 from the bridge to the Illinois 92 interchange, was combined with another $16 million improvement that

extended the work from the Illinois 92 interchange to east of the Milan Beltway. Additional work included bridge painting and lighting upgrades at Illinois 92.

The Iowa Department of Transportation contributed $18.9 million to the bridge improvements.

The combined projects improved more than 6.5 miles of I-280 through the Illinois communities of Coal Valley, Moline, Milan, and Rock Island. The interstate also serves the Quad City International Airport, which is estimated to generate almost $650 million in economic impact annually and supports nearly 4,400 jobs, according to an IDOT analysis of the state’s airports.

“These investments in I-280 will extend the life of another critical border bridge and strengthen the robust multimodal infrastructure system in the Quad Cities,” said Illinois Transportation Secretary Omer Osman. “I’m proud that we could make these improvements with our partners in Iowa. Working together, we have improved safety, mobility, and commerce between our two states and throughout the Midwest.”

“I am grateful for the leaders that prioritized this funding and helped make this bridge a reality,” said State Sen. Mike Halpin (D-Rock Island). “But I want to offer a special ‘thank you’ to the skilled tradesmen and women that built this bridge from the riverbed up. We are lucky to have an amazing workforce in Illinois and we are a better state because of it.”

“We call it the Quad Cities for a reason: every town on both sides of the river needs one another to thrive,” said State Rep. Gregg Johnson (D-East Moline). “This bridge is not just connecting two neighboring states, it is connecting one community split by a mighty river.”

“It’s innovative infrastructure projects like these that do so much for the local community and the Midwest overall. I’m pleased that this project not only creates jobs and makes the roadway safer, but also helps our economy grow,” said Mike Thoms, Rock Island Mayor.

“Moline is thankful for each and every investment in its critical infrastructure as well as investments in our regional infrastructure,” said Mayor Sangeetha Rayapati of Moline. “Support from Springfield is critical in our no-state region and we appreciate it.”

The I-280 repairs were one of several made possible by Rebuild Illinois this construction season in the Illinois Quad Cities, including: $7 million to patch and resurface Illinois 5 (John Deere Road) in Moline between 16th and 35th streets as well as a $1.3 million project completed in September to patch and resurface Illinois 92 from Turkey Hollow Road to Illinois 192.

Across the state, Rebuild Illinois is investing a total of $33.2 billion over six years, creating jobs and promoting economic growth. Rebuild Illinois is not only the largest capital program in state history, but also the first that touches all modes of transportation: roads and bridges, transit, waterways, freight and passenger rail, aviation, and bicycle and pedestrian accommodations.

Accomplishments through Year Four of Rebuild Illinois include approximately $12.1 billion of improvements statewide on 5,339 miles of highway, 533 bridges, and 762 additional safety improvements.

Visit https://idot.click/Rebuild-Illinois for information on other Rebuild Illinois projects happening throughout the state.

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Suburban Times | Week of December 6, 2023

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Afro Unicorn is Excited to Enchant Children Around the World with ‘Magical Gift’ LOS ANGELES, PRNewswire -- Afro Unicorn®, the beloved character brand founded by visionary entrepreneur April Showers, announces the release of its second annual holiday EP, An Afro Unicorn Holiday Deluxe. Presented by Afro Unicorn Entertainment and distributed by Connect Music, this festive masterpiece encapsulates the season’s spirit and underscores the brand’s commitment to empowering and celebrating children of color.

Magical Gift An Afro Unicorn Holiday This ten-track holiday extravaganza, now available across all streaming platforms, is a delightful continuation of Afro Unicorn’s magical journey. Introducing five new tracks, including the standout Spanish bilingual song “Feliz Navidad,” celebrating Afro-Latina character Divine, the EP promises to keep the festivities alive with hits like “Holiday Treats,” “Happy Afro Unicorn Halloween,” and “An Afro Unicorn Thanksgiving.”

An Afro Unicorn Holiday Deluxe EP features the heartwarming title track “Magical Gift,” a soulful collaboration between Grammy Award-winning artist Anthony Hamilton and the talented 11-year-old Brooklyn Marie, known for her work as JJ’s best friend Cody on Cocomelon®. The track embodies the essence of Afro Unicorn, spreading holiday magic Afro Unicorn through acts of kindness.

“Spread Love,” featuring international recording artist Lara D from The Voice®, adds a touch of Middle Eastern and Moroccan flair to the EP with eclectic drum beats and traditional rhythms. An Afro Unicorn Holiday Deluxe EP also features contributions from Brielle Mariah, Kalipop, and the All-Star Kids.

April Showers, Afro Unicorn’s CEO, and the first female, Black-owned business owner of a licensed character brand

Afro Unicorn

in major retail stores, emphasizes the EP’s alignment with the brand’s social impact movement, stating: This year’s holiday release is a musical treat and a testament to Afro Unicorn’s commitment to empowering children of color. The brand has become a symbol of authenticity, creativity, and representation, instilling confidence in youngsters and encouraging them to embrace their magic, uniqueness, and

divinity.

Executive Producer Askia Fountain, renowned for his work on the Grammy-nominated album “Victory Lap” by Nipsey Hussle, leads a talented team of producers, singers, and songwriters. Fountain, also Vice President and Brand Manager of Afro Unicorn Entertainment, expresses the intentional creation of the EP, saying:

“It represents our ongoing commitment to children’s music, animation, and live-action. It has a profound message about the true meaning of the holidays, celebrating creativity, and supporting one another.”

To Interview Afro Unicorn Founder April Showers and Singer/Songwriter Anthony Hamilton, please email adrienne@theipyagency.com Afro Unicorn Holiday Deluxe EP Track List: Track Listing: Ho Ho Ho Spread Love Magical Gift Sweep Left to Right Holidays with you Magical time of the year - Getaway Holiday Treats Happy Afro Unicorn Halloween An Afro Unicorn Thanksgiving Afro Unicorn Feliz Navidad Producers: Bridgetown Herothaproducer B Dub Lester London Writers: Ya Ya Kalipop Blake Harris Askia Fountain Afro Unicorn® is a fully licensed character celebrating representation founded by visionary entrepreneur and CEO April Showers as a conscious brand with the mission to uplift and impact women and children of color positively. Afro Unicorn® represents the beauty and uniqueness of vanilla, caramel, and mocha complexions. From clothing and accessories to holiday gifting and educational resources, Afro Unicorn provides women and children with the confidence they need to embrace who they are – unique, divine, and magical. In 2022, Afro Unicorn® was made available on the shelves of 3,800 Walmart stores across the U.S. and Puerto Rico with party supplies and apparel.

Artist & SUPERCHARGED® CEO, Kwanza Jones, Presents Two New Tracks With A Powerful Message About Perseverance & Partnership LOS ANGELES, PRNewswire -- SUPERCHARGED®

By Kwanza Jones releases two new tracks titled, “Charging Forward” and “Hey Boost Friend.” These songs carry powerful messages that encourage fans to keep moving forward and bring others along.

Although each song conveys a different message, when considered together, they form a unique statement that highlights the mission of Jones’ company, SUPERCHARGED. SUPERCHARGED by Kwanza Jones is a media, lifestyle, and personal development brand founded by Jones with a simple, yet ambitious vision – to be earth’s most action-inspiring organization. It’s a company that produces inspiring, motivational content coupled with an impact-oriented community.

The impact organization creates songs that are energizing, positive, and empowering. Their mission is to boost humans to be better and improve the world together with music being the pillar art form.

“Charging Forward” is a song about keeping up the momentum, pushing towards your goals, and overcoming all obstacles. Part of the song lyrics says, “I must be up to somethin’, always grindin’, always buildin’, always chargin’ forward. I don’t ever wanna stop moving, and I don’t look back. The second that you do it, then you’re

SUPERCHARGED By Kwanza Jones music release: “Charging Forward”

losing.”

“Hey Boost Friend” is a song about being a support system for others and boosting them to be better. The lyrics of the song says, “I’ll push you in the right direction.

citizennewspapergroup.com

Won’t let you back away. I know that we got a connection.

I’ll always be your strength.”

Together, both songs form a single message that encourages fans to be the best that they can be, and while excelling, they should elevate others along the way. “No one ever succeeds alone. We all need a boost sometimes,” said Jones.

Kwanza Jones boosts humans and humanity through culture, capital and community. She is a sought-after speaker, accomplished artist, impact investor, and philanthropist. With a multifaceted background spanning music, media, production, law and business, Jones is an energetic and visionary leader. She is CEO and founder of SUPERCHARGED® by Kwanza Jones, a motivational media company. Jones has served on numerous boards including the Apollo Theater, Bennett College, Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer, and Ronald Reagan UCLA Medical Center. Through her Jones Feliciano Initiative, she has committed over $150 million to education, entrepreneurship, equity and empowerment organizations. To learn more, visit kwanzajones.com and connect with her on Instagram | X (formerly Twitter) | Facebook | LinkedIn | Kwanza Jones Boost Friends™ Community.

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28%

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Suburban Times | Week of December 6, 2023

DIVERSE-OWNED MIDSIZE BUSINESSES*

SUBURBAN TIMES

NEWS

18% OF REVENUE

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Closing the Revenue Gap for U.S. Diverse-owned Midsize Businesses Presents a $1.3T Opportunity, according to Research from B JPMorgan Chase and Next $45 Street Closing the revenue gap for Chicago diverse-owned midsize businesses presents an opportunity to generate:

IN ADDITIONAL REVENUE

New study explores the opportunities and challenges faced by diverse-owned businesses across the middle market *“Diverse-owned” businesses includes Black-, Hispanic-, Latino(a)-, Asian-, and other people of color-owned businesses, women-owned businesses, and veteran-owned businesses.

New York – November 28, 2023 – Recently, JPMorgan Chase and Next Street released The Middle Matters: Exploring the Diverse Middle Market Business Landscape, a new report that provides insights into the midsize businesses that power our economy.

Conducted and analyzed by Next Street, the research reveals that while midsize businesses generate significant revenue nationally and locally, there is an opportunity to better support them as they face headwinds such as increasing competition, slowing revenue growth and an uncertain economic outlook.

The report details the U.S. midsize business: • Market: There are approximately 300,000 midsize businesses across the U.S. that generate $13 trillion in annual revenue and employ more than 40 million people.

• Importance: These businesses account for 33% of annual revenue generated and 30% of all private sector employment in the country, despite representing only 5% of the total number of national employer businesses.

• Discrepancy: Diverse-owned businesses represent roughly 30% of the middle market, but generate only about 20% of the total market revenue.

• Opportunity: Closing this gap could generate an additional $1.3 trillion in annual revenue, presenting a meaningful opportunity to support national economic health and prosperity.

“Midsize businesses are critical to the health of our economy and communities,” said Terry Hill, Co-Head of Emerging Middle Market, JPMorgan Chase Commercial Banking. “They create millions of jobs, as well as the products and services that power our day-to-day lives. By providing tailored solutions that meet their unique needs, we can help companies build lasting legacies that uplift communities for generations.”

Opportunities exist to provide more support to midsize businesses in Chicago.

Greater Chicago is the 3rd largest middle market in the U.S.

10,400

As reported by Chicago midsize businesses:

$464 B

MIDSIZE BUSINESSES IN GREATER CHICAGO

ANNUAL REVENUE

56%

55%

53%

Would like to build strong banking relationships

Need guidance on how to acquire growth financing and improve their capital structure

Need advice on strategic business and innovation planning

There is also an opportunity for additional supplier certification support (e.g., diversity, industry, safety certifications) among diverse-owned businesses in Chicago.

DIVERSE-OWNED BUSINESSES

47

NON-DIVERSE-OWNED BUSINESSES

25%

Interest in supplier certification support

%

In Chicago, there is a greater presence of midsize businesses in the Transportation industry relative to the national middle market.

Top challenges reported by Chicago midsize businesses:

Top 10 Chicago Midsize Business Industries

13% 13%

Retail Professional Services

11% 11%

Construction Wholesale

9% 9%

Healthcare Manufacturing

Maneuvering in a competitive business environment

58%

Navigating economic uncertainties

45 %

Enhancing revenue growth

41%

7%

Accommodation/Food Administrative Services Transportation

More Chicago diverse-owned businesses face revenue growth challenges than non-diverse-owned businesses.

6% 6%

the Diverse Middle Market Business Landscape, is a new study based on research conducted and analyzed

by Next Street. The study included primary and secondary data sources, surveys, interviews and focus groups. For this research, the middle market is defined as those businesses generating between $11 million and $500 million in annual revenue. Most midsize businesses fell into the $11mm to 100mm range of annual revenue. Next Street’s analysis primarily focused on the middle markets in Chicago, Dallas and Los Angeles—which, when combined, represent 12% of the overall U.S. middle market.

For the purposes of this report, “diverse-owned” includes Black-, Latino(a)-, Asian-, and other people of color-owned businesses, women-owned businesses, and veteran-owned businesses.

About JPMorgan Chase Commercial Banking JPMorgan Chase Commercial Banking is a business of JPMorgan % % Chase & Co. (NYSE: JPM), a leading Diverse-owned midsize businesses in Chicago represent approximately 28% of the global financial services firm number of midsize businesses, but account for with assets of $3.9 trillion and While many midsize businesses tap into personal relationships to access approximately 18% of the revenue. new advisory support services, more than 30% of diverse-owned operations worldwide. Through businesses look to their banking relationships for advisory support, compared to only 19% of non-diverse-owned businesses. its Middle Market Banking & Specialized Industries, Corporate % 32 Client Banking & Specialized % 28 % 19 Industries and Commercial Real 18% Estate businesses, Commercial Banking serves emerging startups to midsize businesses and large corporations as well as Closing the revenue gap for Chicago diverse-owned midsize businesses government entities, not-for-profit presents an opportunity to generate: organizations, and commercial • Creating real estate investors, developers and owners.

B and implementing Clients are supported through every stage of strategic business growth with specialized industry expertise and and innovation plans tailored financial solutions including credit In addition to and financing, treasury and payment services, exploring the current international banking and more. Information The Diverse Landscape state of the middle about JPMorgan Chase Commercial Banking is To date, there has been limited Opportunities exist to provide more market, the report available at www.jpmorgan.com/commercialinvestment in research that highlights diverse-,support to midsize businesses in Chicago. describes opportunities for broader access banking. women-, and veteran-owned midsize businesses. to financial resources and overall support for Understanding the needs of midsize businesses midsize businesses.

About Next Street that make up the middle market offers a “There%is growing%support in the business Next Street designs and develops solutions significant opportunity to empower underserved % community for a greater understanding of to connect entrepreneurs and small business business owners and bolster the economy. the middle market overall, and the dynamic owners with the right resources at the right Diverse-owned midsize businesses are, on businesses within it,” said Charisse Conanan time, with a focus on small businesses facing average, 10 years younger and employ fewer Johnson, Co-CEO of Next Street. “We hope this disproportionate barriers. With a proven employees than non-diverse-owned businesses. There is also an opportunity for additional supplier certification new report serves as a call to action for middle diversity, industry, safety certifications) among track record of nearly 20 years, an ongoing According to the businesses surveyed, diverse- support (e.g.,diverse-owned businesses in Chicago. market stakeholders to accelerate additional commitment to becoming an anti-racist owned companies are growing at a faster rate research efforts and solutions to serve the needs organization, and an extensive network of (32%) than their non-diverse counterparts (19%). of diverse-owned midsize 25% businesses.” small business advocates, operators and That said, the report finds that diverse-owned 47 % The full report can be found here, and investors, Next Street accelerates the impact of midsize businesses face roadblocks to growth. infographics with key findings from the report institutions and advisors on small businesses Key challenges include: can be found here. and provides millions of businesses with the • Accessing capital and advisory services Top challenges reported by Chicago midsize businesses: experts, tools and capital they need to thrive.

• Acquiring growth financing and improving Report Methodology % Learn more at nextstreet.com. capital structure The report, The58Middle Matters: Exploring 3%

Real Estate

Top barriers to accessing advisory services reported by Chicago midsize businesses include:

Greater local presence of midsize businesses relative to national middle market

36

30

Uncertain of the services needed

Lack of budget

DIVERSE-OWNED BUSINESSES

NON-DIVERSE-OWNED BUSINESSES

DIVERSE-OWNED MIDSIZE BUSINESSES*

OF REVENUE

The Middle Matters: Exploring the Diverse Middle Market Landscape. November 2023

© 2023 JPMorgan Chase & Co. All rights reserved. JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A. Member FDIC. Visit jpmorgan.com/cb-disclaimer for full disclosures and disclaimers related to this content. This is not a product of the Research Department of J.P. Morgan Securities LLC

$45 IN ADDITIONAL REVENUE

*“Diverse-owned” businesses includes Black-, Hispanic-, Latino(a)-, Asian-, and other people of color-owned businesses, women-owned businesses, and veteran-owned businesses.

As reported by Chicago midsize businesses:

56

55

Would like to build strong banking relationships

Need guidance on how to acquire growth financing and improve their capital structure

DIVERSE-OWNED BUSINESSES

53

Need advice on strategic business and innovation planning

NON-DIVERSE-OWNED BUSINESSES

Interest in supplier certification support

Maneuvering in a competitive business environment

Navigating economic uncertainties

45 %

citizennewspapergroup.com 41 Enhancing revenue growth

%

More Chicago diverse-owned businesses face revenue growth challenges than non-diverse-owned businesses.

10 FOODS

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Suburban Times | Week of December 6, 2023

SUBURBAN TIMES

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Hickory Smoked Spiral Sliced Ham with Bourbon, Honey and Orange Glaze Total time: 2 hours, 40 minutes

1 Smithfield Hickory Smoked Spiral Sliced Ham 1/2 cup bourbon 1/2 cup honey 1 1/2 cups fresh orange juice 1/2 cup brown sugar 1/2 teaspoon ground clove 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon 1 tablespoon ground ginger Preheat oven to 325 F. Remove packaging from ham, including glaze packet, and place face down in large roasting pan.

Heat ham, uncovered, 12-14 minutes per pound, or until internal temperature reaches 120 F. Heating time will vary by weight.

When about 30 minutes of cook time remains, in small saucepan over medium-high heat, whisk bourbon, honey, orange juice, brown sugar, clove, cinnamon and ginger; bring to boil.

Pour glaze over ham.

Continue baking ham, basting frequently.

For final 10 minutes of cook time, turn oven up to 425 F, continuing to baste with glaze.

When ham is heated through, remove from oven, drain liquid in bottom of baking dish and reserve to serve on side of hot ham.

Celebrate the Season’s Best with a

Smoked Holiday Ham

(Family Features) Whether you’re hosting a large holiday gathering or simply savoring the season with those nearest and dearest, serving up flavorful dishes your friends and family will love is key to bringing everyone together.

With a full portfolio to choose from, you can shake up your meals all throughout the season using inspiration and premium products from

Smithfield to help bring everyone together to share favorite memories and meals from breakfast to dessert and everything in between.

This holiday season, create a masterpiece such as a Hickory Smoked Spiral Sliced Ham with Bourbon, Honey and Orange Glaze for the perfect combination of sweet and savory with fresh orange juice, bourbon, ginger, cinnamon and honey that’ll leave

guests asking for seconds.

Easy to prepare and ready to be served, Smithfield Spiral Hams are pre-sliced and only need to be heated.

Plus, if you’re short on time during a hectic holiday season and unable to prepare a homemade glaze, a preglazed ham is an easy option.

For more easy-to-make holiday recipe inspiration, visit Smithfield. com.

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Suburban Times | Week of December 6, 2023

REAL ESTATE AC 12-06--2023 IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF COOK COUNTY, ILLINOIS COUNTY DEPARTMENT - CHANCERY DIVISION US BANK NATIONAL ASSOCIATION; Plaintiff, vs. WILLIAM GETTINGS AKA WILLIAM R. GETTINGS; UNKNOWN OWNERS AND NONRECORD CLAIMANTS; Defendants, 22 CH 4800 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 Monday, January 8, 2024 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. 3126-420-006-0000. Commonly known as 337 Winnebago St., Park Forest, IL 60466. 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 The Sales Department at Plaintiff's Attorney, Diaz Anselmo & Associates, P.A., 1771 West Diehl Road, Naperville, Illinois 60563. (630) 453-6925. 6766-184463 ADC INTERCOUNTY JUDICIAL SALES CORPORATION intercountyjudicialsales.com I3233696 _______________________________________ IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF COOK COUNTY, ILLINOIS COUNTY DEPARTMENT - CHANCERY DIVISION PLAZA HOME MORTGAGE, INC. Plaintiff, -v. VICTOR COOKSEY, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA - SECRETARY OF HOUSING AND URBAN DEVELOPMENT, BALLANTRAE OF FLOSSMOOR COMMUNITY ASSOCIATION Defendants 2023 CH 01699 3643 ANTHOLL STREET FLOSSMOOR, IL 60422 NOTICE OF SALE PUBLIC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered in the above cause on June 20, 2023, an agent for The Judicial Sales Corporation, will at 10:30 AM on January 5, 2024, 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 3643 ANTHOLL STREET, FLOSSMOOR, IL 60422 Property Index No. 31-11-110-009-0000 The real estate is improved with a 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

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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 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(g1). 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. 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 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.

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. 14-23-01393 Attorney ARDC No. 00468002 Attorney Code. 21762 Case Number: 2023 CH 01699 TJSC#: 43-4296 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 # 2023 CH 01699 I3233991 _______________________________________

STAY INFORMED WITH THE LATEST COMMUNITY NEWS! Visit us at: www. citizennewspapergroup.com

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TECHNOLOGY

Tips to Protect Yourself From Text Message Cyberattacks PHOTO SOURCE: (c) VioNettaStock / iStock via Getty Images Plus

(StatePoint) Every day, cybercriminals create new methods of obtaining private financial information from unsuspecting individuals, most commonly employing tactics like emailing strangers and convincing them to either share personal information or take an action that compromises their systems and devices. Known as “phishing,” these cybercrime attempts can also come by way of short message service (SMS) or text messaging, and when they do, it’s called “smishing.”

Scammers use smishing to prompt victims to click on internet links or send classified or personal information through texts and other messaging apps, making individuals vulnerable to identity theft and even extortion. However, understanding their methods can help you protect yourself. Here’s what to know: Attacks Are Getting More Sophisticated Cybercriminals often use a tactic called spoofing, where they impersonate a known sender or transmit messages from a legitimate number. Even if you know the sender, it’s still important to verify the message’s legitimacy before responding, opening an attachment, or clicking on a link that could potentially compromise your device.

Cybercriminals also share stolen credentials and personal information more readily now and work in gangs, ultimately amplifying the threat. Through social engineering of your publicly available information — often gleaned from social media — and private data procured illicitly, scammers are able to craft text messages specifically designed to lower your defenses. This means, communication may look like it’s being sent from a known person or number, possibly making reference to shared knowledge. Fraudsters may apply a sense of urgency or other scare tactic that prompts you to react quickly instead of taking the time to scrutinize a request.

Additionally, the ever-growing capabilities of generative artificial intelligence (AI) tools have made it easier for scammers to develop smishing attempts that closely mirror conversation, making it simpler and more affordable to distribute cyberattacks successfully to a large audience.

“Whereas previous smishing and phishing messages often didn’t make sense, as generative AI advances, these messages contain fewer grammatical or spelling mistakes. As a result, users are less able to distinguish them from legitimate communications,” says Raina Kanakis, a security specialist with PNC’s Global Security Fusion Center.

Simple Precautions Can Mitigate Risk Vigilance is key, especially as attacks become more sophisticated. One way to verify senders’ identities is by cross-checking short codes — the five- or six-digit number used by companies to deliver text messages to your phone. Each of

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these unique codes is used for certain purposes — to transmit card activity alerts, for instance.

Many companies, such as PNC Bank, have established resources to enable customers to verify the legitimacy of text messages appearing to come from them. By referencing PNC’s Short Codes page for example, you can verify whether a text message originated from a legitimate short code, helping you detect and avoid possible impersonation fraud.

Use these additional strategies to help thwart smishing attempts: 1. If you are not expecting the message, proceed with caution.

2. Do not immediately respond.

3. Do not click on any links within a text message.

Navigate to the URL using a different means to validate it.

4. If the message appears to come from a familiar company, contact them on a different channel to confirm legitimacy.

5. Getting a text and subsequent call does not increase legitimacy. Hang up and call the company or financial institution directly using a known telephone number.

6. Screenshot and send any suspicious messages appearing to come from a company to them to verify and alert.

7. To report smishing to all mobile telecom carriers, screenshot and send the message to 7726.

For added protection, use the “Report Junk” feature on your mobile carrier’s system.

8. Visit the FCC website for more information on how to avoid smishing scams.

12 | Suburban Times | Week of December 6, 2023

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