Hyde Park Citizen 7-5-2023

Performer Joan Collaso founded Timeless Gifts

Performing Arts Program for Youth and Young Adults in 2010 as a concept for concert that would pair young, aspiring performers with professional performers in different genres –music, acting and dancing.

Joan Collaso founded Timeless Gifts Performing Arts Program for Youth and Young Adults in 2010. PHOTO PROVIDED BY JOAN COLLASO.

Timeless Gifts Performing Arts Program for Youth and Young Adults pairs students with professionals in the performing arts community. PHOTO PROVIDED BY JOAN COLLASO.

ASSOCIATION HOUSE OF CHICAGO EARNS APA FOUNDATION AWARD FOR ADVANCING MINORITY MENTAL HEALTH

WASHINGTON, D.C., – At its annual benefit held in conjunction with the American Psychiatric Association (APA) Annual Meeting, the American Psychiatric Association Foundation (APAF) named Association House of Chicago as one of the seven recipients of the 2023 Awards for Advancing Minority Mental Health.

Since 2003, the APAF has recognized 99 community-based organizations with awards totaling $535,000 for their innovative and supportive efforts to raise awareness about mental illness in unserved and underserved minority communities. These efforts promote early recognition, improve access to quality mental health services, and address cultural barriers to treatment, with special attention to those in the public health system or with severe mental illness. The awards include a financial contribution of $5,000 for each organization to continue and expand its important work.

Founded in 1899, the Association House of Chicago was first established as a community center but grew with its diverse neighborhood’s needs to include a multitude of services over the last century. Today, the Association House serves its community by providing comprehensive, collaborative, and effective programs in English and Spanish. These include behavioral health, child welfare, community health, workforce development, and school programs.

Association House aims to fill gaps that low-income individuals and families face in areas of high economic hardship. This past year alone, they have served 3,018 individuals, with 51% being Hispanic/Latinx and 36% being African American.

The APA Foundation is honored to issue this award to an organization that provides necessary resources and wellness programs to marginalized and low-income individuals in Chicago, Illinois.

Gov. Pritzker Announces Over $1 Billion in Federal Funding to Support High-Speed Internet Access and Adoption in Illinois

FUNDING WILL HELP CONNECT ALL ILLINOISANS TO HIGH-SPEED INTERNET SERVICES

CHICAGO — Governor JB Pritzker along with the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) announced Illinois will be allocated over $1 billion in funding to support high-speed internet access through the Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment (BEAD) Program. This grant will help fund the development of high-speed infrastructure across the nation as part of President Biden’s Internet for All initiative.

“This funding is a significant step in ensuring Illinoisans across the state have access to the reliable high-speed internet that they need,” said Governor JB Pritzker. “I am committed to making Illinois a leader when it comes to technology and innovation, and access to broadband is a critical service for all residents who rely on high-speed internet for everything from healthcare and education, to running a business.”

The $1 billion in funding will build upon Governor Pritzker’s historic $420 million Connect Illinois broadband infrastructure plan — a part of Rebuild Illinois, focused on delivering upgrades to ensure that every community across the state has 21st century broadband capability. Connect Illinois includes allocating $400 million to the Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO) to deploy statewide broadband expansion, especially for the rural families and communities that have been the most impacted by the digital divide. It also includes $20 million to repair, enhance, and expand broadband for schools with a focus on K-12 education. Reliable, accessible, and affordable broadband is crucial to the economic growth and success of the state. In partnership with the federal government, Governor Pritzker’s administration is enacting a nation-leading approach to eliminate the digital divide.

The BEAD Program is the federal government’s largest-ever investment in the expansion of high-speed internet access and focuses on connecting underserved and rural communities.

Performing Arts Program give young performers on stage

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BY TIA CAROL JONES

The Timeless Gifts Christmas Duets Concert was a success. Collaso wanted to expand the time the students were able to spend with the professionals, so she decided she wanted to start the program. In 2011, she asked her performance professional friends to be part of her organization and the program began.

With Timeless Gifts, Collaso is using all of her experience as a performer, producer, along with her connections and network, to bring the students together as a family and a community. The goal of the program is to put the students who participate in front of performing professionals that can teach them, so they can have a network for future employment. Timeless Gifts has partnered with the DuSable Black History Museum and Education Center, Reva and David Logan Center for the Arts, Cinespace and other spaces that enable them to perform.

Students, ages 3 to 24, can participate in the programs, which includes a seven-week summer program, as well as a fall and winter program, which takes place between October and November. Collaso estimates that hundreds of students have come through the program. She said the reason why the age increases is because the students don’t want to leave. As they get older, they continue to participate, they move onto other things, or they come on as assistant instructors or administrative assistants.

In 2019, Timeless Gifts partnered with the Italian

American Human Relations Foundation of Chicago to take 18 young people to Milan for their first performance tour. There are plans to take students back this year.

“We help in every way. The students can come to us and whatever their interests are, be it an instrument, be it voice, any performing arts discipline, acting, tap dance … Our job is, we put our hands on the people we know that we have associations with, and we’re able to bring them into the organization as instructors,” Collaso said.

For the most part, Collaso said parents love having their children in the program, and the students love the program and they want to come back. The parents see the growth of the students.

“As they find their place in this Timeless Gifts community, they become more comfortable and it causes them to be more comfortable in their own skin wherever they are. The result is always positive,” she said, adding the organization is a beacon of light for the community and is viable and sustainable.

In 2022, Timeless Gifts hosted its first four-day theater revue at Epiphany Center for the Arts, located at 201 S. Ashland. This year, Timeless Gifts will host “Timeless! A Musical Revue” from Thursday to Sunday, July 6th - 9th , at South Shore Cultural Center, 7059 S. South Shore Drive. The cost for the revue is $25 for the show only; $40 for the show with two adult drinks; and $55 for the show, dinner and two adult drinks. Tickets are available at www. timelessgifts.org.

President Obama Announces Programming Hub for the Future Obama Presidential Center

ATHENS, GREECE – President Obama announced that the future Obama Presidential Center will be home to the Democracy in Action Lab (DIAL), a programming hub that honors the power of democracy, public service, and global changemakers. The Democracy in Action Lab, made possible by a transformational grant from the Stavros Niarchos Foundation (SNF), will be the epicenter of the Obama Foundation’s commitment to community and program resources at the intersection of democracy and leadership development—a space to enrich young leaders in the neighborhood and around the world. President Obama made the announcement at the SNF Nostos Conference in Athens, Greece, during a keynote conversation with SNF Co-President Andreas Dracopoulos.

“Thanks to the generosity of the Stavros Niarchos Foundation, we are establishing a permanent home on the South Side of Chicago for young leaders to come together as part of the Obama Presidential Center,” said President Obama. “The Democracy in Action Lab will

serve as a global community center, where young people from all over the world can put their idealism to work. Because progress depends on having leaders committed to the values that are vital to preserving and improving democracy.”

“It will take imagination and courage to create the truly public spaces for dialogue and civic engagement this era of polarization and disruption demands,” said SNF Co-President Andreas Dracopoulos. “We need to ensure that those spaces are welcoming and inclusive. The Obama Presidential Center is thoughtfully doing this work, imagining a new paradigm for what a public forum for civic engagement and civil discourse can look like on the South Side of Chicago, and SNF is proud to be a part of the effort.”

Located on the Lower Level of the Forum Building, the Democracy in Action Lab will offer school groups and community partners space to host workshops, community gatherings, small group conversations, speaker series,

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Timeless Gifts will host “Timeless! A Musical Revue” from Thursday to Sunday, July 6-9, at South Shore Cultural Center. PHOTO PROVIDED BY JOAN COLLASO.

RESULTS FOR AMERICA AWARDS CHICAGO WITH BLOOMBERG PHILANTHROPIES WHAT WORKS CITIES CERTIFICATION FOR EXCEPTIONAL USE OF DATA

CHICAGO – Mayor Brandon Johnson announced that the City of Chicago has been awarded the Bloomberg Philanthropies What Works Cities Certification at the Gold Level for exceptional use of data to inform policy decisions, allocate funding, improve services, evaluate program effectiveness, and engage residents. The citywide achievement was the result of projects led by the Mayor’s Office, Department of Assets Information and Services (AIS), Chicago Department of Public Health (CDPH), Department of Family and Support Services (DFSS), Department of Procurement Services (DPS), and Chicago Department of Transportation (CDOT). The city projects submitted for certification were judged against rigorous standards established by practices within peer cities.

“Data shapes how we respond to emergencies, plan our infrastructure, make decisions to improve health equity, and so many other City programs and

services that our residents depend on every day,” said Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson. “Thank you to all the city departments, including AIS, CDPH, DFSS, DPS, and CDOT, as well as our external partners, who helped us to achieve the What Works Cities Gold Certification. We will continue working across City departments to expand data practices and develop new ideas to improve the quality of life and deliver efficient services for all Chicago residents.”

In 2022, What Works Cities Certification released updated and expanded criteria for cities to achieve recognition for excellence in using data to serve residents better. The new criteria embed equity priorities and better reflect the evolving best practices of data-informed governance. Additionally, Certification is now requiring cities to show that they meet an internationally recognized standard on at least one of three outcomes: air pollution, the percentage of households with high-speed broadband subscriptions, or a high-priority outcome the city chooses that aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UNSDGs).

Some notable examples of the City use of data include:

The Data Academy, created and led by Chicago Department of Public Health Senior Epidemiologist Margarita Reina, empowers community stakeholders with the skills to use hyperlocal data to address critical health issues. “Communities impacted by COVID-19 understand the challenges and barriers and are most equipped to design their own solutions,” said Reina. The Academy provides handson training with real epidemiological data on topics like community engagement strategies, data driven storytelling, policy development, and effective communication strategies. Participants explore the nuanced meanings and implications of data points in relation to specific community challenges, and their work culminates in a final presentation. The program is a testament to Chicago’s commitment to data-driven equity.

Citywide Digital Equity Initiative: The Chicago Digital Equity Council led the charge to close the digital divide. The Council, composed of community

members and organizations impacted by digital disparities, participated in structured community conversations to understand barriers to digital access in the City’s least connected neighborhoods. This participatory and qualitative data collection approach shaped the City’s Digital Equity Plan, which is now driving Chicago’s approach to ensuring the remaining unconnected 172K households are connected to broadband, devices, and digital skills. This work is a partnership between the City and citywide members of the Digital Equity Coalition.

Crisis Assistance Response and Engagement (CARE) program is a first-ofits-kind initiative that integrates mental health and substance use professionals into teams that respond to 911 emergencies. The CARE program was shown to be effective in reducing use-of-force incidents and can serve as a national model for responding to mental health crises effectively and humanely. The expansion of the pilot program demonstrated the City’s commitment to making policy decisions based on outcome metrics.

The City’s Open Data Program qualified for several criteria and is an essential foundation for the city’s data-driven initiatives. The portal demonstrates Chicago’s early and ongoing commitment to transparency, accountability, and reliability. The portal is distinguished by comprehensive metadata and a dependable publication schedule, ensuring that high-quality, up-to-date data is readily available for both internal stakeholders and the public. This crucial resource enables informed decision-making, fosters innovation, and facilitates a data-driven approach in various city programs and initiatives.

Since its inception in 2017, 62 cities have achieved What Works Cities Certification. Chicago joins seven newly Certified cities, six other currently Certified cities which have achieved a higher Certification level, and seven cities being re-Certified. A city that achieves 51–67% of the 43 criteria is recognized at the Silver level of Certification, and 68–84% is required to achieve Gold.

Serves

PRESIDENT OBAMA...

large-scale events, and more. It will also act as a gathering location for emerging leaders in the Foundation’s network of global changemakers.

“The Democracy in Action Lab will represent the best of what we do at the Foundation—moving people from hope to action in support of building and strengthening democratic culture around the world,” said Obama Foundation CEO Valerie Jarrett. “We are grateful

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to the Stavros Niarchos Foundation for their partnership to support the Foundation’s leadership programming and look forward to continuing our commitment to investing in the next generation of leaders.”

The Obama Presidential Center broke ground in September 2021 and is expected to be completed by 2025. To learn more about the future Democracy in Action Lab, visit: obama.org/programs-wing-presidential-center/.

HUNTER LAUNCHES SUMMER BOOK CLUB FOR YOUNG READERS

State Senator Mattie Hunter announced the launch of her Summer Book Club to encourage young readers within the 3rd Senate District to stay engaged over summer break.

“Reading helps us learn and develop our imaginations and provides an escape from our everyday lives,” said Hunter (D-Chicago). “I hope students will explore libraries this summer and find a few books that interest them.”

To participate in the Summer Book Club, students must read eight books of their choice during the summer break, record the names of the books on a form and return the form to Hunter’s office by Aug. 18. Every child who completes the Summer Book Club will receive a gift card and certificate.

Book club forms are available to download at www.SenatorHunter.com or can be requested by calling Hunter’s district office at 312-949-1908.

COOK COUNTY TREASURER’S OFFICE TO RECYCLE FLOWERS AND BOUQUETS FROM THE WORLD’S BEST FLORAL ARTISTS BY DELIVERING THEM TO CHICAGO POLICE OFFICERS

Volunteers from the office of Cook County Treasurer Maria Pappas will make sure that hundreds of flowers and intricate bouquets from the American Institute of Floral Designers Symposium in Chicago next week won’t go to waste. The award-winning bouquets will be delivered to several of the city’s 25 police stations and given to police officers and their spouses.

“We’re just trying to spread a little joy this summer,” said Pappas. “Police officers put their lives on the line for the citizens of this city each and every day. This is just a small way of saying: ‘Thanks, Officer.’”

The flower design show, which runs July 1 – 6 at the Hilton Chicago, is the floral industry’s premiere floral design education event attracting the industry’s leading business owners, floral artists, suppliers and event professionals.

Hundreds of flowers and bouquets from the show will be picked up and delivered to area police stations daily by volunteers from the Treasurer’s Office and from Bloom ‘N Toss, a Chicago-area company that donates and repurposes flowers to hospitals and nursing homes. Catherine Costello, the owner of Bloom ‘N Toss, is coordinating the effort.

“When I first learned about this incredible opportunity to recycle these flowers and bouquets that have been created by the most talented hands in the floral industry I immediately reached out to Treasurer Pappas,” said Costello. “I knew because of her extensive outreach work she would be able to help with this truly worthwhile endeavor.”

In addition to familiar flowers like carnations, roses and sunflowers, the bouquets will feature exotic tropical flowers like pincushion protea, heliconia and orchids.

MICHELLE EBANKS APPOINTED NEXT PRESIDENT AND CEO OF THE APOLLO, THE LARGEST AFRICAN AMERICAN PERFORMING ARTS ORGANIZATION IN THE NATION

EBANKS TO EXPAND MODERNIZATION OF APOLLO FACILITIES AND PROGRAM

(Black PR Wire) Harlem, NY – The Apollo announced recently the appointment of Michelle Ebanks as the next President and CEO of the nation’s foremost African American performing arts center dedicated to Black arts and culture. Ms. Ebanks has extensive leadership experience in media, entertainment, and live events. She previously served as CEO of Essence Communications, overseeing the nation’s leading media and communications company dedicated to African American women, including Essence magazine, the preeminent lifestyle magazine for African American women; Essence.com, the award-winning, daily online destination for African American women; and the internationally renowned Essence Festival of Culture, one of the largest annual live music events in the world.

Ms. Ebanks joins The Apollo—the largest African American performing arts center in the nation—at a pivotal time for the iconic organization. In addition to its new Victoria Theaters that will open later this year, The Apollo will shortly commence the first full-scale renovation of its landmarked Historic Theater and complete its $80M Apollo Rising 2.0 capital campaign. Ms. Ebanks succeeds Jonelle Procope, who over the last two decades transformed The Apollo into an internationally recognized cultural and civic nonprofit institution.

“Michelle brings to The Apollo a deep understanding in creating exciting cultural experiences for a diverse range of communities, including overseeing some of the most popular live events in the nation. At a time when performing arts organizations are looking at how best to provide opportunities for audiences who are both hungry for in-person experiences and ways to participate with programming

digitally, Michelle’s depth of knowledge will lead The Apollo to its next level of engagement with artists, audiences, and partners throughout New York, nationally and internationally,” said Apollo Board Chair Charles E. Phillips. “Michelle joins The Apollo at a time of strength, forged by Jonelle and her team over the last two decades into one of the nation’s greatest cultural institutions.”

“I’m thrilled to be joining the iconic Apollo at such an important time in its trajectory. The Apollo continues to have such a profound impact on Black culture—and American culture—locally, nationally and internationally,” said Michelle Ebanks. “It is such an exciting time as it expands its physical footprint, doubles down on supporting artists at every stage in their careers, collaborates with partners across Harlem and the world, and offers a platform

for the voices of African American artists across the diaspora.”

“For nearly nine decades, The Apollo has been a welcoming home for artists of color, a tireless advocate for Black culture and creativity, and a galvanizing force for the performing arts in New York and across the U.S. It has been an honor to lead this organization through two decades of outstanding performances, transformative educational programs, and civic advocacy,” said Jonelle Procope. “I am excited to see the innovative and forward-thinking ideas that Michelle will bring to The Apollo, and I am confident it will thrive under her leadership.”

Michelle Ebanks was President of Essence Communications Inc., where she was responsible for advancing Time Inc.’s businesses within the nation’s fastest growing population segments: African Americans and Hispanics. As President of Essence Communications Inc., Ms. Ebanks led the number one media and communications company dedicated to African American women. Comprised of media and entertainment properties with total brand reach of 12 million including Essence magazine; ESSENCE.com; and the internationally renowned Essence Festival of Culture, one of the largest annual live events in the world attracting more than 540,000 attendees to New Orleans, Louisiana. Ms. Ebanks began her career at Time Inc. as the general manager and financial director for Money magazine. Subsequently, she was a vicepresident in Time Inc.’s corporate division, where she led the acquisition of ESSENCE. Prior to joining Time Inc., she served as corporate business manager for Condé Nast’s 13 titles.

Blaylock Van Welcomes Industry Pro David B. Girton as Senior Vice President

(Black PR Wire) Indiana — Blaylock Van, LLC, the nation’s longest continuously operating Blackowned investment firm, recently welcomed David B. Girton as Senior Vice President for its growing investment banking team. Most recently, Girton served as Vice President of Institutional Sales at Sturdivant, Inc., a full-service brokerage firm. With more than three decades of experience in financial services, municipal finance, and institutional trading, Girton will be based in Indiana and cover the firm’s Midwest region.

Throughout his career, Girton has diversified his skillsets and actively co-managed several municipal transactions including water, sewer, educational facilities, airports, and stadiums. To date, he has participated in more than $10 billion of co-managed underwritings. While at Sturdivant, Girton spearheaded the company’s Indiana Project to cultivate the next generation of Wall Street leaders by introducing minority students to the vast economic opportunities in the industry and preparing them to successfully take and pass the newly enacted FINRA Securities Industry Essential

examination.

“David is recognized across the industry for his remarkable financial savvy as well as his ability to build and grow long-term client relationships, and we are thrilled to welcome him to our team as we broaden our reach across the Midwest,” said Blaylock Van CEO and President Eric Standifer. “As a company dedicated to diversity, inclusion, and the next generation, we also appreciate and admire his charitable and community work as we aim to expand our nonprofit work in the region.”

In 2010, Girton founded the Liger Financial & Trustee Education Conference which brings together trustees, plan sponsors, and money managers from across the United States to share knowledge, network, and collaborate. He has also served on several elected and appointed corporate and civic boards and currently serves on the Washington Alliance Capital Board of Directors and the Interim Study Committee on Pension Management Oversight. Girton was previously elected to the Indianapolis Public School Board of Commissioners, the largest school district in the State of Indiana, where he

served two consecutive terms.

“Blaylock Van’s commitment to diversity is unparalleled in the financial services and investment industry, going beyond talk and ideas to action and innovation,” Girton said. “I am incredibly passionate about this industry and look forward to carrying on the Blaylock Van legacy and work in Indiana and throughout the region.”

In addition, Girton has received numerous recognitions, including the Indiana Black Expo Governor’s Award, Stanley K. Lacey Leadership Class XV for emerging leaders, national recognition in Black Enterprise Magazine, named one of Ebony Magazine’s 50 Leaders of the Future, and the Indianapolis Business Journal 40 under 40, among others. He is a member of the National Association of Security Professionals.

Blaylock Van, LLC (BV) is the oldest and continuously operating Black-owned banking firm in the United States, providing personalized services for clients across the country. Clients include corporations, municipalities, investment managers, pension funds, and family offices. The firm’s headquarters are in New York City, with offices in Atlanta, Chicago, Columbus, Ohio, Dallas, Miami, and Oakland, Calif. Blaylock Van is 89 percent Black-owned. For more information, please visit https://brv-llc.com/

The Athlete’s Foot Partners with Adidas on ‘The Athlete of the Mic’

DYKingz Performed on the Main Stage Alongside Hip-Hop Icons 21 Savage & Friends

ATLANTA, PRNewswire -- The specialty footwear and lifestyle retailer, The Athlete’s Foot (TAF), and leading sportswear manufacturer, Adidas have partnered once again to host the iconic, The Athlete of the Mic contest. The winner, Atlanta’s own DYKingz, performed live onstage at Birthday Bash ATL alongside mega hip-hop stars including 21 Savage & Friends, GloRilla, Finesse2Tymes, NLE Choppa, Jacquees, and more in front of more than 30,000 fans at the State Farm Arena on June 17, 2023.

This year contestants had the option to audition live in key markets including Raleigh, NC, Atlanta, GA, and Dallas, TX, or submit their audition video online. The final four, Atlanta winner, DYKingz, Raleigh winner, Sitch, Dallas winner, South Dallas KeKe, and online winner, iamBree-Ze all took the stage to perform live at the Who’s Hot contest on Friday, June 16th in Atlanta.

Vice President, of Marketing and Community Engagement, Darius Billings states “The Athlete of the Mic started in 2015 and each year the talent gets better and better. I’m excited about this year’s finalists as we included a new city, Dallas, for the live auditions. We look to add new cities each year for live auditions to further opportunities in the communities we serve.”

More than just a retail store but branded to be a destination for athletic street style, The Athlete’s Foot is a global retailer of athletic-inspired lifestyle for streetwear, footwear, apparel, and accessories. The Athlete’s Foot sneaker and streetwear chain has 550 stores and e-commerce shops in 30+ countries. Its global headquarters are located in Stans, Switzerland, and in Atlanta, Ga. in the United States.

Discover the Allure of Coastal Cowgirl Aesthetic with Karina Brez’s Exquisite Equestrian Jewelry

Karina Brez, and her exquisite collections perfectly complement the alluring coastal cowgirl aesthetic. Karina Brez designs seamlessly blend the grace and power of equestrianism with the free-spirited elegance of coastal living, resulting in jewelry that exudes a unique sense of beauty and charm.

Coastal Cowgirl, as a fashion concept, draws inspiration from the picturesque landscapes of coastal regions and merges it with the timeless allure of the cowgirl spirit. It represents a harmonious fusion of rugged elegance, sun-kissed hues, and a deep connection to nature. This aesthetic celebrates the coastal lifestyle and embraces the adventurous spirit of equestrianism, combining them to create a look that is simultaneously sophisticated and effortlessly chic.

Karina Brez’s jewelry encapsulates the essence of the coastal cowgirl aesthetic with her exceptional craftsmanship and thoughtful design. Her pieces pay homage to the equestrian world, incorporating motifs such as horseshoes, horse head-shaped hearts, hooves, and horse bits, while infusing them with a

coastal-inspired touch. The result is a collection that beautifully captures the essence of the equestrian spirit and seamlessly fits into the coastal cowgirl aesthetic.

The coastal cowgirl trend draws on a number of pop culture references. Inspired by the release of the live action “Little Mermaid,” for its oceanic looks as well as from Toy Story’s character, Jessie, the merging of cowgirl and last year’s coastal grandmother trend has merged to create this summer’s look for any occasion. The coastal cowgirl trend made headway at this year’s Coachella and was heavily influenced by the hit television shows “Yellowstone,” as well as “Daisy Jones and the Six,” a show about Fleetwood Mac. Spotify even has a coastal cowgirl summer playlist.

The collection showcases an array of necklaces, bracelets, earrings, and rings, each crafted to reflect the graceful strength of equestrianism and the allure of coastal living. To view pieces from the collection, visit https://karinabrez.com/collections/coastal-cowgirl.

The Athlete of The Mic Winner DYKingz Performing at Birthday Bash ATL on June 17, 2023 in Atlanta. The Athlete’s Foot.

Photos by L.M. Warbington Photography

WINDY CITY SMOKEOUT ANNOUNCES A STELLAR 2023 BBQ LINEUP

ACM’S “Festival of the Year” Returns to Chicago July 13-16 with 30 of the World’s Best Pitmasters

Windy City Smokeout, the nation’s premier outdoor country music and BBQ festival, returns to Chicago’s iconic United Center (1901 W. Madison Street) on July 13-16, 2023. The two-time winner of the Academy of Country Music Awards “Festival of the Year,” the Windy City Smokeout will celebrate its 10th anniversary with some of country music’s biggest names and up-and-coming talents.

Headliners include GRAMMY award winner Zac Brown Band, much-decorated ACM and CMA award winner Luke Bryan, GRAMMY award winner Darius Rucker, and GRAMMY award nominee Zach Bryan. The music talent is matched by some of the best craft beer and BBQ from around the country. This year’s BBQ line-up features 30 of the world’s best pitmasters, including eight new teams, offering a mix of new school and old school ‘cue dishes throughout the festival weekend.

The full 2023 BBQ line-up includes:

RETURNING:

w Bub City - Chicago, IL

w Green Street Smoked MeatsChicago, IL

w Hogapalooza - Wynne, AR

w Hoodoo Brown BBQ - Ridgefield, CT

w Hurtado Barbecue - Arlington, TX

w LeRoy and Lewis BBQ - Austin, TX

w Lillie’s Q - Chicago, IL

w Little Miss BBQ - Phoenix, AZ

w Meat Mitch - Leawood, KS

w Operation BBQ Relief - Kansas City, MO

w Pappy’s Smokehouse - St Louis, MO

w Pearl’s Southern Comfort - Chicago, IL

w Peg Leg Porker - Nashville, TN

(SATURDAY / SUNDAY ONLY)

w Salt Lick BBQ - Driftwood, TX

w Slab Barbeque - Los Angeles, CA

w Smoke Queen Barbeque - Los Angeles, CA

w Smoque BBQ - Chicago, IL

w Soul & Smoke - Evanston, IL

w Sugarfire Smoke House - St Louis, MO

w Truth BBQ - Houston, TX

w Ubons BBQ - Yazoo City, MS

w Wright’s Barbecue - Fayetteville, AR

NEWCOMERS:

w 3 Little Pigs - Chicago, IL

(THURSDAY ONLY)

w Blues Hog - Washington, MO

w Horn Barbecue - Oakland, CA

w Joe’s Kansas City BBQKansas City, KS

w Laser Wolf - Philadelphia, PA

(FRIDAY ONLY)

w Lexington Betty’s - Chicago, IL

w Mama Fried - Austin, TX

w Panther City BBQ -

Fort Worth, TX

TICKETS + GENERAL INFORMATION

Festival passes are now on sale at www.windycitysmokeout.com. Tickets are currently priced as follows:

w GA Day Pass for Friday, July 14: $59.95

w GA Day Pass for Saturday, July 15: $79.95

w GA Day Pass for Sunday, July 16: $59.95

w VIP Day Pass for Friday, July 14: $400

w VIP Day Pass for Sunday, July 16: $400

w Platinum Pass for Saturday, July 15: $700

w Platinum Pass for Sunday, July 16: $700

*General Admission festival passes do not include food or beverage.

**VIP festival passes include access to an elevated and

covered area next to the stage, complimentary mobile charging stations, air-conditioned restrooms, access to private cash bars and an official Windy City Smokeout welcome gift.

***Platinum festival passes include deluxe climate-controlled upper deck, private, and stagepit viewing areas, complimentary mobile charging stations, VIP parking access with golf cart service to and from festival grounds, airconditioned restrooms, top shelf beer/wine/cocktails included, curated BBQ service in private dining areas, and $25 BBQ Bucks preloaded onto wristbands

The hours for Windy City Smokeout are Thursday July, 13Sunday, July 16: 1pm-10pm.

For more information and to purchase festival passes, please visit www.windy city smokeout. com, and be sure to follow all the action on Instagram at @ WindyCitySmokeout and Twitter at @WCSmokeout.

AFROPUNK BROOKLYN 2023 Announces Lineup, With Headliners

Jazmine Sullivan and Flying Lotus

Sprite Summer Campaign Honors Hip-Hop 50th Anniversary by Teaming Up with Some of the Genre’s Biggest Stars

(Black PR Wire) Sprite – a brand that has championed hip-hop culture for more than 35 years – will celebrate the groundbreaking genre’s 50th anniversary this summer with a buzzworthy TV spot starring a crew of living legends and rising stars, a new limited-edition flavor, sponsorship of one of the year’s most anticipated concert tours and a series of exclusive merch and experience drops.

Nas, Rakim, Latto and GloRilla will star in fresh Sprite creative paying tribute to the past, present and future of hip-hop. A remix of The Sugarhill Gang’s “Rapper’s Delight” – the first-ever hip-hop song to hit the Billboard Top 40 – is infused with memorable bars from the cast of old-schoolers and contemporary artists and anchors the campaign with a rapping, time-traveling love letter to the music that has shaped popular culture over the last five decades.

A.P. Chaney, Creative Director for Sprite North America, said the brand’s longstanding hip-hop credentials are unmatched.

“Our resume speaks for itself,” Chaney said. “Sprite took a chance on hip-hop before it was cool, and has always been of the culture, not only for the culture. We’ve shown up for both moments big and small, amplifying the endless possibilities of the now-omnipresent hip-hop lifestyle and its profound impact on music, sports and fashion. So, it’s only fitting that we pay homage to all hip-hop has been, is and will be.”

Just as the campaign will honor hip-hop history, the new limited-time-only (LTO) Sprite Lymonade Legacy is a remixed nod to the OG crisp, lemon-lime refresher. Sprite’s take on strawberry lemonade, which was inspired by fan requests on social media, offers a delicious combination of tried-and-true and something new. The LTO flavor will be available in a range of packages at retailers nationwide, and exclusively in fountain and frozen formats at 7-Eleven stores.

Summer of Drops

Original Sprite and Sprite Lymonade Legacy packaging will feature a fresh design celebrating 50 years of hip-hop. The look takes cues from summer and the crisp, refreshing taste of Sprite, as well as boomboxes, studio mixers and other tech tools synonymous with hip-hop’s journey.

Fans can scan on-pack QR codes on both products throughout the summer to access digital “drop shops” with hundreds of giveaways. Prizes include exclusive content featuring Latto and Rakim and covetable merch including autographed Nas

hats, GloRilla tour tees, a Latto gold mic, and Rakim directorial slates from the TVC shoot.

“Our ‘Summer of Drops’ focuses on our fans’ passion points – music, fashion, art and entertainment – and draws inspiration from sneakerhead drop culture,” said Aaliyah Shafiq Ely, VP, Sparkling Flavors Category. “The diverse array of prizes offers something for everyone to get excited about, and our overall campaign is the latest example of Sprite responding to what fans want with both experiences and products.”

Premier experiential giveaways include Rolling Loud Lifetime Passes and meet-and-greet tickets for Drake’s “It’s All A Blur” summer tour, which will feature Sprite as the lead beverage sponsor. Drake has partnered with Sprite for more than a decade, starting with the “Spark” multinational campaign in 2012 – his first worldwide deal – and continuing with 2015’s “Obey Your Verse.” The 57-date arena tour marks the hip-hop megastar’s first series of concerts in five years.

Obeying Thirst and the Verse for 37 Years Sprite’s ties to hip-hop date back to 1986, when rapper Kurtis Blow was cast in the “Now More Than Ever” spot, becoming one of the first hip-hop artists featured in a national, mainstream ad. The commercial inspired the “I Like The Sprite In You” ads featuring popular artists like LL Cool J and Kris Kross. The 90s brought a deeper dive into the genre with the “Obey Your Thirst” campaign starring Pete Rock & C.L. Smooth, A Tribe Called Quest and Grand Puba (who reportedly coined the slogan “Obey Your Thirst” during a rehearsal). Legendary rapper – and star of this summer’s campaign – Nas made his Sprite debut alongside AZ on the stoop in 1997. Sprite advertising in the aughts embraced hiphop’s next generation of stars.

In 2013, “Obey Your Verse” celebrated the artistry of 2Pac, Missy Elliott, J. Cole, Drake and Rakim by decorating Sprite cans with some of their most inspirational lyrics. Rakim, who also stars in this summer’s campaign, first appeared in a Sprite ad with 2016’s “Obey Your Verse – Lyrical Collection” spot.

Sprite’s support of the creators and arbiters of hip-hop continued with 2021’s virtual “Live From The Label” concert series featuring Latto – also in this summer’s campaign – as well as Saweetie, Jack Harlow and more.

Visit Sprite.com and follow the brand on Instagram for more details on the summer campaign.

(Black PR Wire) NEW YORK -- (BUSINESS WIRE) -- AFROPUNK is a global movement, exploring all aspects of Black culture with events across multiple states and continents, but Brooklyn remains its home. Celebrating great music and vibrant culture in its home borough once again, AFROPUNK announces the lineup for AFROPUNK BROOKLYN 2023. Debuting at a new venue, Greenpoint Terminal Market, with an accompanying new theme, AFROPUNK BROOKLYN recruits two brand new headliners: iconic R&B singer & songwriter Jazmine Sullivan, makes her AFROPUNK headliner debut, where she will flex her astounding vocal muscles and perform music from her award-winning project Heaux Tales, while game-changing producer Flying Lotus will bring his cosmic live show to the historic waterfront. With additional performances from some of the most vital artists in music today, AFROPUNK returns to Brooklyn on August 26-27, 2023 at Greenpoint Terminal Market.

In addition to this year’s masterful headliners, AFROPUNK BROOKLYN 2023 promises a lineup full of some of the hottest artists in music today. The lineup runs a wide range of styles, welcoming Hip-Hop artists including Brooklyn’s own Joey Bada$$, as well as Vince Staples, Toby Nwigwe, and Baby Tate, acclaimed jazz singler Madison McFerrin, NY rap vets the Beatnuts, trailblazing singers like Sudan Archives, Durand Bernarr, Dreamer Isioma, and the Brooklyn-born Iniko, South African amapiano producer DBN Gogo, and many, many more.

This year, AFROPUNK BROOKLYN debuts a brand new venue: Greenpoint Terminal Market. Located on the banks of the East River, with unbeatable views of the Manhattan skyline, Greenpoint Market provides a picturesque location for the performances and trademark AFROPUNK activations, including the Spinthrift Market and AFROPUNK’s Bites ‘n Beats. AFROPUNK will transform the space, adding lawns, trees, and other shade structures to allow for a soothing and soulful day outside. This year’s event in Brooklyn will introduce a new theme–CIRCUS OF SOUL–transforming the riverside blacktop into a carnivalesque exhibition that spotlights all aspects of Black creativity, soundtracked by music that speaks to the heart of the Black experience. Expect many more activations, showcasing the artistry of local vendors and more, to be announced soon.

AFROPUNK is more than just an event, it’s a celebration of life, music, food, and culture in the Black community. AFROPUNK has established a legacy as a safe space for Black alternative culture, offering a haven for attendees to show up as their most authentic selves. The end result of which is always a stunning community of people who respect, admire, and care for one another; it’s an experience unlike any other. Brooklyn is AFROPUNK’s home–where it started in 2004–reliably turning out the most creative individuals in the borough to dress up and turn up.

In 2022, AFROPUNK made a triumphant return to NYC with AFROPUNK BROOKLYN 2022, the first edition of the organization’s flagship event in over three years. Headlined by Burna Boy and The Roots, last year’s AFROPUNK BROOKLYN brought additional performances from the likes of Earl Sweatshirt, Tierra Whack, Isaiah Rashad, Lucky Daye, Doechii, Freddie Gibbs, Adekunle Gold, and many more.

AFROPUNK’s celebration of all aspects of Black culture continued this past winter, with AFROPUNK + Lincoln Center: Black HERSTORY Live, a two-day takeover of Lincoln Center celebrating Black women and their contribution to arts and culture, featuring performances from artists like india.arie, UMI, and Danielle Ponder, plus poetry, dance, and more. Black HERSTORY Live continued the momentum from an ambitious 2022, which included Planet AFROPUNK Live events in Miami, Minneapolis, and Bahia, Brazil.

With AFROPUNK BROOKLYN 2023 on the calendar and more announcements to come, AFROPUNK is one of the most vital and vibrant cultural institutions in New York City and beyond.

To purchase tickets for this year’s two-day event, please visit: here. For updates about AFROPUNK BROOKLYN 2023, please join our text community, sign-up for our newsletter and visit: https:// afropunk.com/festival/brooklyn/

Lawyers’ Committee for Civil Rights Under Law Recognizes 60 Years of Fighting for Racial Justice

John Brittain, William Robinson, and Kristen Clarke were honored during the anniversary celebration. Lloyd Cutler and Ernest N. Morial also were lauded posthumously for their transformative contributions to the fight for racial justice.

The Lawyers’ Committee for Civil Rights Under Law is celebrating 60 years of action using legal advocacy to achieve racial justice, fighting inside and outside the courts to ensure that Black people and other people of color have the voice, opportunity, and power to make the promises of democracy real. The nonpartisan, nonprofit organization mobilizes the private bar’s leadership and resources in combating racial discrimination and the resulting inequality of opportunity.

On Tuesday, June 20, the Lawyers’ Committee marked its 60th anniversary with a signature event at the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts. This special evening honored the organization’s founding and victories

achieved over the years while also reaffirming its commitment to realizing “The Future We Deserve.”

Founded on June 21, 1963, at the request of President John F. Kennedy,

the Lawyers’ Committee has spent six decades fighting for issues including voting rights, affirmative action, and digital justice. The Lawyers’ Committee stands on the front lines of the

most pressing and complex civil rights problems, using litigation, public education, and other advocacy tools to address discrimination, advance the law and take defensive action when necessary to safeguard fragile gains.

“As we commemorate our 60th anniversary, we look back with pride on a history marked by resilience and triumph in the face of adversity. The Lawyers’ Committee was created to confront and conquer the profound injustices facing Black people and other people of color,” said Damon T. Hewitt, President, and Executive Director of the Lawyers’ Committee. “As we look to the future, we draw strength from our foundation with unshaken resolve. We persist in our pursuit of a society where the ideals of democracy are not just abstract concepts but lived realities for the communities we serve. Together, we can build a future we deserve — a future illuminated by justice, equality, and enduring opportunity.”

Comcast Announces $4.5 Million Grant to Per Scholas

(Black PR Wire) PHILADELPHIA -- (BUSINESS WIRE) -- Comcast Corporation announced a new $4.5 million, three-year grant to Per Scholas, a leading national nonprofit advancing economic equity through tech training and career building. The investment will enable more than 10,000 diverse adults across 15 markets to launch new tech careers, empowering individuals from low-wealth communities to earn a collective $450 million in new wages alone. Notably, the funding will also support Per Scholas expansion to three new markets in need of skilled technologists for digital economies — allowing for even greater community impact.

“The key to closing the digital divide goes beyond just mere access to the Internet,” said Dalila Wilson-Scott , EVP and Chief Diversity Officer for Comcast Corporation & President of the Comcast NBCUniversal Foundation. “With nearly one-third of U.S. workers lacking the basic digital skills needed to function and compete in our increasingly digital job market, we need urgent focus on digital literacy and technical skilling — particularly in communities of color. By continuing our partnership with Per Scholas, we are helping to produce measurable outcomes that will create a more prepared and inclusive workforce and better ensure that no community is left behind.”

Since 2021, the Per Scholas-Comcast partnership has resulted in more than 2,500 trained learners across a dozen markets, empowering nearly 1,700 graduates to

launch tech careers, generating more than $76 million in collective new earnings. Through this new three-year grant and market expansion, Per Scholas learners will graduate from the “10,000 Accessible Careers in Tech” program equipped with in-demand technical and professional skills that prepares them to succeed in technology careers, with in-house support to identify employment opportunities during and post-graduation.

Per Scholas current training tracks include AWS re/Start, Cybersecurity, IT Support, Java Development, and Software Engineering.

“Comcast continually helps Per Scholas unlock potential, building a future of unlimited possibilities,” said Plinio Ayala, President and CEO of Per Scholas. “Our partnership is powerful — Comcast is investing in communities, ensuring digital skills are ubiquitous across America, and hiring Per Scholas-trained technologists. Because of Comcast’s support, we just celebrated our inaugural graduation in Indianapolis, and I’m looking forward to making impact together in cities and communities that could benefit most from Per Scholas’s nationally-recognized, proven tech skills training.”

The 15 markets where the Per Scholas-Comcast partnership is making a difference every day include Atlanta, Baltimore, Greater Boston, Chicago, Detroit, Indianapolis, Orlando, the National Capital Region, Newark, Philadelphia, Pittsburgh, Seattle, New York, and two new cities to be announced soon. The Per Scholas grant announcement is part of a $25 million comprehensive funding initiative specifically targeted at creating eco-

nomic opportunity through digital skills building in 2023, and Project UP, Comcast’s $1 billion commitment to help advance digital equity and build a future of unlimited possibilities.

Comcast Corporation (Nasdaq: CMCSA) is a global media and technology company. From the connectivity and platforms we provide, to the content and experiences we create, our businesses reach hundreds of millions of customers, viewers, and guests worldwide. We deliver world-class broadband, wireless, and video through Xfinity, Comcast Business, and Sky; produce, distribute, and stream leading entertainment, sports, and news through brands including NBC, Telemundo, Universal, Peacock, and Sky; and bring incredible theme parks and attractions to life through Universal Destinations & Experiences.

For more than 25 years, Per Scholas has been advancing equity and increasing opportunity across America. Per Scholas unlocks potential for individuals, communities, and employers through rigorous training for careers in tech. Partnering with dynamic employer partners, from Fortune 500 companies to innovative startups, we are building sustainable and diverse talent pipelines, together changing the face of tech. With national remote training and campuses in 20+ cities and growing, Per Scholas offers tuition-free training in the most in-demand tech skills, including Cloud, Cybersecurity, Data Engineering, IT Support, Software Engineering, and more. To date, more than 20,000 individuals have gained the skills to launch high-growth tech careers, earning three times their pre-training wage. Diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging is in our DNA: 85 percent of learners are people of color, two in five are women, and more than half have a high school diploma as their highest education credential. Learn more by visiting PerScholas.org and follow us on LinkedIn, Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube.

Lawyers’ Committee for Civil Rights Under Law

Black PR Wire

How to Put Your Passion and Skills to Work in the Peace Corps

(StatePoint) Since President John F. Kennedy established the Peace Corps in 1961, more than 240,000 Americans have served in 143 countries worldwide.

The agency has high needs for volunteers to deliver on its mission of world peace and friendship, particularly in the agriculture, health, education and youth-

in-development sectors.

In more than 60 countries, Peace Corps volunteers are putting their purpose, passion and skills to work in partnership with welcoming host communities – growing, teaching, learning and making change. Peace Corps volunteers

live and work alongside community members on locally prioritized projects, receiving a stipend and other support as they immerse themselves in a new culture. They build relationships, exchange knowledge and help transform lives for generations.

The Immersive Volunteer Experience

The Peace Corps volunteer program is often called life-defining by the more than 240,000 Americans who have served.

Volunteers get the chance to fully integrate into a host country community, where they live and work on projects ranging from education to business development

To be considered for global service, adult U.S. citizens should apply at peacecorps.gov/apply. Applications will be accepted on an ongoing basis.

As part of its recruitment campaign, the Peace Corps is sharing a few essential things that potential volunteers need to know about service:

• Fast facts: Volunteers typically serve for 2 years, with an additional 3 months of training. These assignments are great for recent college graduates, retirees, career changers or anyone looking to make a difference in the world.

Additionally, there are 3-12 month service options ideal for experienced professionals and returned volunteers for specialized, high-impact, short-term assignments and part-time virtual opportunities.

• What volunteers do: Volunteers live and work alongside the people they serve, collaborating with local governments, schools, small businesses and entrepreneurs to create sustainable, community-based projects that address local development priorities across six sectors.

• Post-service: Serving in the Peace Corps is a viable way to launch a career. It gives volunteers the skills needed in today’s global economy. In addition to rigorous technical training at the start of service and regular opportunities to gain new skills related to work, language, culture and safety, the Peace Corps offers graduate school benefits and career support specifically tailored to volunteers when they return home to help them prepare for their next step. For more recruitment information and to learn more, visit peacecorps.gov/volunteer/connect-witha-recruiter/. Whether you’re a recent college graduate or a retiree, you may have what it takes to make a lasting impact overseas through Peace Corps service.

PHOTO SOURCE: Courtesy of the Peace Corps