South Suburban Citizen 3-23-2022

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WEEK OF MARCH 23, 2022

Yummy Extensions + KOSA Professionals Celebrates International Women’s Day

WEEKLY

BUSINESS SCAMS CAN HAPPEN TO ANYONE. HERE ARE THE MOST COMMON ONES AND HOW TO PROTECT YOURSELF

P4 FREE | VOL 41 | ISSUE 18

Lexury Skin has three body butters, It Girl, Nun But and Herbs N Tingz.

Alexis Washington is a certified herbalist and the creator of Lexury Skin, a skincare line of products that address skin issues.

PHOTOS PROVIDED

BY LISA R. JENKINS

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SEE INSIDE P3 THIS EDITION FOR: THORNTON TOWNSHIP DELINQUENT TAX LIST

In addition to the three body butters, Lexury Skin also has an It Girl Scrub to accompany the It Girl Body Butter.

ENTREPRENEUR CREATES

SKINCARE LINE TO ADDRESS SKIN ISSUES Otis Redding Foundation Announces New Center for the Arts & Amphitheater P8

Alexis Washington wanted to create a skincare line. It was put on the back burner when she started having children and started her career as a nurse. A few years ago, she started a haircare line with a friend. She separated from the haircare line and wanted to focus on her dream of having a skincare line. In October 2020, she began the process of creating Lexury Skin.

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NEWS

briefly COLLINS RECOGNIZED FOR YEARS OF WORK IMPROVING URBAN NEIGHBORHOODS Neighborhood Housing Services of Chicago has named State Senator Jacqueline Y. Collins (D-Chicago) as its recipient of the 2022 Gale Cincotta Community Visionary Award for her many years of work improving urban neighborhoods.

NHS selected Collins for the award due to her recent success in reining in predatory lenders in lower-income communities, as well as her efforts to combat racial biases in mortgage lending.

“The unfortunate truth is that housing insecurity is most common in lower-income majority Black and Brown neighborhoods that were disadvantaged by decades of disinvestment and racist housing policies,” Collins said. “I’m proud that I’ve been able to help pass laws and put pressure on city and state leaders to turn these neighborhoods back into true communities that people are proud to call home.”

No sitting Illinois legislator has done more than Collins to help keep families in good homes. When the Great Recession threatened thousands of families with foreclosure and eviction, she took action to set in place new programs and protections for homeowners and renters alike.

She passed laws that created counseling programs for families in danger of foreclosure, requiring banks and other financial institutions that offer mortgages to take part in a national licensing system, and allowing not-forprofits to provide assistance to families in need.

NHS established the Gale Cincotta Community Visionary Award to recognize outstanding leadership in the effort to rebuild urban neighborhoods. Gale Cincotta was a prominent community activist who fought for neighborhoods and community groups and worked to eliminate “redlining” and discriminatory practices against low-income and minority communities.

Avelo Airlines Announces New Nonstop ServiceFrom Chicago Midway to Southern Connecticut Avelo Airlines today announced it will begin serving the Windy City with nonstop service to Southern Connecticut from Chicago Midway International Airport (MDW). The flight offers Chicago a more convenient and affordable gateway to the New England and New York regions. With the addition of MDW, Chicago becomes Avelo’s first Midwestern U.S. destination. Introductory one-way fares between MDW and Connecticut’s most convenient airport — Tweed-New Haven Airport (HVN) — starting at $69* are available at AveloAir.com.

HARPER PASSES LEGISLATION TO BACK MINORITY FARMERS SPRINGFIELD, Ill. – To further support minority farmers, state Rep. Sonya Harper, D-Chicago, passed legislation that would create a group to propose solutions to the adversities faced by minority farmers.

“The inequities faced by minority farmers affect the food systems, health and economy of vulnerable communities,” said Harper. “This bill will help address adversities faced by farmers from minority communities, and therefore address the negative outcomes these adversities create.”

House Bill 5201 will establish the Agriculture Equity Commission to increase outreach to socially disadvantaged farmers, study the industry and provide recommendations concerning equity for farmers from minority communities. The commission will include academics, policy experts and legislators and will reflect the representation of socially disadvantaged communities.

“Farming has always played an integral role in Illinois’ economy and culture. The Agriculture Equity Commission is an important first step in ensuring this industry is open for everyone to partake and succeed in,” said Harper. “I thank my colleagues on both sides of the aisle for supporting this bill and for supporting minority farmers across the state.”

House Bill 5201 passed the House with bipartisan support, and now heads to the Senate for consideration.

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SOUTH SUBURBAN

South Suburban | Week of March 23, 2022

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Entrepreneur creates skincare line to address skin issues Continued from page 1

BY TIA CAROL JONES

“I wanted to make products that were not just beauty products, or things that smell good. I wanted it to be products that actually helped the skin,” she said.

From Alexis’ experience working with patients in a nursing home, she would see people with dry, scaly skin. Some of the residents also had skin issues which included eczema and psoriasis. The lotion that was being provided for the residents wasn’t adequate to address those issues. It wasn’t penetrating the skin or providing the moisture needed. Lexury Skin is something everyone in the family can use. Alexis wants to eventually have her skincare line provided to patients in nursing homes and hospitals.

Lexury Skin launched in February with three products, three body butters: An unscented, Nun But; a scented, It Girl; and an herbal body butter, Herbs N Tingz.

In early March, Alexis launched a foaming body scrub to accompany the It Girl Body Butter. Products range in price from $10 to $14 and $35 for a set of three body butters which includes the Nun But, It Girl and Herbs N Tingz.

Alexis is a certified herbalist. During the pandemic she took a course because she wanted to be able to offer clients products, she knew would address their skin care needs. Using her medical and herbalist background, she created Herbs N Tingz to combat eczema and psoria-

sis. She also gives away free samples of chamomile tea because it reduces inflammation, which she said can also contribute to eczema flair ups. The combination of the Herbs N Tingz and the chamomile tea can attack the eczema inside and out.

Alexis also gives people who purchase her products tips. She believes diet also affects the skin and its condition.

“It’s not just about the products, it’s about what you’re putting inside your body as well,” she said.

For the Spring and Summer months, Alexis suggests people eat lighter meals, fresh fruits and vegetables. She said people should stay away from fried foods and dairy, which also can contribute to eczema. As far as what to put on the body for warmer months, Alexis suggests going lighter with the products. While Lexury Skin body butters have a thick consistency, once they are rubbed on the skin it has more of an oil-like consistency.

Alexis often hears from clients that the products are keeping them moisturized and soft in the dry winter weather.

Alexis wants other entrepreneurs who want to go into business to have faith in themselves and not be afraid.

Also, don’t wait for the perfect time, start doing the research and start thinking about what they want to achieve with the business.

“The main goal should be to help somebody,” she said.

For more information on Lexury Skin, visit www. lexuryskin.com.

CHICAGO-AREA COMMUNITIES RECOGNIZED FOR SOLAR ENERGY ACHIEVEMENTS Ten new Chicago-area communities have achieved national recognition for encouraging the growth of solar energy. These communities were awarded designation under SolSmart, a program funded by the U.S. Department of Energy that helps local governments reduce barriers to solar energy use for homes and businesses.

The communities will be recognized today at a virtual event at Argonne National Laboratory at 10 a.m. Central Time.

Communities designated include Carol Stream and Mount Prospect at the SolSmart Gold level; Bensenville and Broadview at SolSmart Silver; and Geneva, Gurnee, Hazel Crest, Northlake, Oak Forest, and Westmont at SolSmart Bronze. All these communities worked with a team of national experts to streamline local procedures and help make it faster, easier, and more affordable for homes and businesses to go solar.

SolSmart is led by the Interstate Renewable Energy Council (IREC) and the International City/County Management Association. The Metropolitan Mayors Caucus worked in partnership with SolSmart to recruit these communities and help them meet the requirements for designation.

“It’s an honor to receive SolSmart designation today along with nine other Caucus communities,” said Mayor Jeffrey Sherwin, City of Northlake Mayor and Caucus Executive Board Treasurer.

“In Northlake, we worked hard to ensure that our zoning ordinance did not restrict solar development ahead of private investments in clean energy. In Illinois, there has been much progress on solar policy, and we don’t want to get in the way of future growth.”

Since the program launched in 2016, SolSmart has designated more than 400 communities in 41 states, the District of Columbia, and the U.S. Virgin Islands. In Illinois, a total of 59 communities have been designated SolSmart Gold, Silver, or Bronze, more than any other state.

For example, communities in the Chicago region established clear permitting processes and communicated these to applicants through a solar permitting checklist. The checklist provides clear and transparent information on permit requirements, which saves time spent on revisions and accelerates permit approval.

“We are so proud of these communities for meeting national benchmarks to achieve designation under the SolSmart program,” said Theresa Perry, program director at IREC. “Thanks to their efforts and the work of the Caucus, the Chicago area truly stands out among communities nationwide for its commitment to sustainable energy growth.”

The Caucus previously served as a local Advisor for the SolSmart program and helped guide 35 communities in two cohorts to designation in 2018 and 2019. All of the cohort members are among 140 communities that have signed the Greenest Region Compact led by the Caucus, which is the largest regional sustainability collaborative for municipalities in the country. Many of the communities being honored today also passed a resolution in support of the Caucus’s Climate Action Plan for the Chicago Region released in 2021.

“Argonne is thrilled to collaborate with local civic leaders to bring renewable energy technology to nearby suburbs. Our work together is making solar power more accessible, which will create a greener region and nation. We congratulate the 10 recognized communities and look forward to partnering with others for a cleaner environment,” said Dr. Paul Kearns, director of the U.S. Department of Energy’s Argonne National Laboratory.

All municipalities, counties, and regional organizations are eligible to join the SolSmart program and receive no-cost technical assistance toward meeting their solar energy goals.

Communities can learn more by visiting SolSmart.org.

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South Suburban | Week of March 23, 2022

SOUTH SUBURBAN

South Suburban College Men’s Basketball Team Completes Historic Season with National Championship The South Suburban College (SSC) Men’s Basketball Team won the National Junior College Athletic Association (NJCAA) Division II National Tournament on Saturday, March 19, 2022. The Bulldogs defeated Davidson-Davie Community College 79-63 at the Mary Miller Center in Danville, Illinois, to cap off a 33-0 season. They entered the tournament as the #1 seed as the national leader in points allowed, blocks and steals. The Bulldogs became the first NJCAA championship winner in school history in any sport. They also earned the distinction as the first team in NJCAA DII history to go undefeated.

“It is a great feeling to win the national tournament, but I am even more impressed that these men were able to go undefeated all year,” said Head Coach John Pigatti. “All of the credit goes to the players – they were really locked in and stayed focused together all week here in Danville. We played some excellent teams and still held three of our opponents to their lowest point totals and the fourth to their second lowest all year.”

Local talent Demarco Minor, a freshman guard from Thornton High School in Harvey, IL, was named Most Valuable Player of the tournament. He is joined on the All-Tournament Team by Damontae Taylor, a freshman forward from Zion-Benton High School in Waukegon, IL, Camron Donatlan, a sophomore guard

from West Aurora High School in Aurora, IL, and Nmesomachi Nnebedum, a sophomore guard from Loy Norrix High School in Kalamazoo, MI. “I am very appreciative of the support I have received since I came to SSC 16 years ago: from President Stokes and the Board of Trustees, the administration, our Athletic Director Steve Ruzich, and of course our fans,” Pigatti added. “I am proud to bring a championship home to such an outstanding school. These players and the entire South Suburban College community deserves this.”

Pigatti adds his first National Championship to 12 Regional Championships he has won during his 16-year tenure as Head Coach of the SThe team will return to South Holland between 12:45 and 1 p.m. on Sunday, March 20, 2022. SSC will host a “welcome home” rally at the time of their return at the Main Entrance of the SSC Gymnasium.

For more information, contact Coach Pigatti at (708) 596-2000, ext. 2524, or email jpigatti@ssc.edu. SSC is located at 15800 South State Street, South Holland, Illinois.

South Suburban College Opens Late Spring Class Registration SOUTH HOLLAND, Ill. – The South Suburban pus, Room L233.

College (SSC) Adult Education Department has extended ESL registration is made by appointment only at the enrollment period for its free High School Equiva(708) 596-2000, ext. 2475 or 2411, or online at https:// lency (HSE/GED) and English as a Second Language www.quia.com/sv/1194173.html as follows: (ESL) programs. The late spring session is scheduled March 23, 29, 31, and on April 4 and 6 at 12 p.m. from April 18 through June 16, 2022. Most of the Adult and 6 p.m. at the Main Campus, Room 1243.

Education programs are offered both full-time and partAt the time of registration, all HSE and ESL students time at the Main Campus in South Holland or at the Oak will take a placement test; please expect to stay at least Forest Center. There are daytime, nighttime and online three hours. A mask must be worn at all times during the course options available. testing/registration process and no children are allowed.

Many adults choose to expand their skills and pursue The following items are required at registration: a high school education through the HSE/ Current Illinois-Issued Photo ID GED program. This program will develHigh School Withdrawal Letter (for op the skills required to pass the High The ESL program students under 18) School Equivalency exams. HSE for ESL Medical Card (if applicable) allows non-native is also available for students who plan to For the purpose of compliance with take the HSE/GED exam in English. The students the ability Section 511 of Public Law 101-166 (the ESL program allows non-native students to improve their Stevens Amendment) Federal funds of the ability to improve their English skills $343,670 provide approximately 36% of from beginning to advanced levels. All English skills the support of these programs. Indiana rescourses are offered free of charge. from beginning to idents are not eligible to participate in the HSE registration is made by appointment only at (708) 596-2000, ext. 2475 advanced levels. All Adult Education programs. Per Governors order, all students in the Adult Education or 2411, or online at https://forms.gle/ courses are offered program are required to be vaccinated or nBaUMMKjnMiz8RMU6 as follows: tested a minimum of once per week for March 23, 29, 31, and on April 4 and free of charge.

COVID-19 in order to attend classes.

6 at 10 a.m. and 5 p.m. at the Main Cam-

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POLITICAL AFFAIRS

FOSTER INTRODUCES DASHBOARD ACT

Congressman Bill Foster (D-IL) introduced the Designing Accounting Safeguards to Help Broaden Oversight And Regulations on Data (DASHBOARD) Act, legislation that would require data harvesting companies such as social media platforms to tell consumers and financial regulators exactly what data they are collecting from customers and how it is being leveraged by the platform for profit.

The DASHBOARD Act will: Require commercial data operators (defined as services with over 100 million monthly active users) to disclose types of data collected as well as regularly provide their users with an assessment of the value of that data.

Require commercial data operators to file an annual report on the aggregate value of user data they’ve collected, as well as contracts with third parties involving data collection.

Require commercial data operators to allow users to delete all, or individual fields, of data collected – and disclose to users all the ways in which their data is being used, including any uses not directly related to the online service for which the data was originally collected.

Empower the SEC to develop methodologies for calculating data value, while encouraging the agency to facilitate flexibility to enable businesses to adopt methodologies that reflect the different uses, sectors, and business models.

“For far too long, social media companies have been telling consumers that their platforms are ‘free’ to use, when that’s not the full story,” Foster said. “Consumers – often unknowingly – pay with their unique data, which the companies collect and sell to third parties for things like targeted ads. I’m proud to introduce this legislation to increase the transparency of the data collected by these platforms, which would require these companies to tell consumers how much their data is worth and who it’s being shared with.”

COLLINS RESPONDS TO FORMER COOK COUNTY JUDGE ARREST FOR HUMAN TRAFFICKING Illinois State Senator Jacqueline Collins (D-Chicago) responds to the Florida arrest of former Cook County Judge Daniel Peters, the subject of a large human trafficking investigation.

His arrest Friday was one of over 100 during a six-day undercover operation focused on trafficking, prostitution and child predators.

“As this arrest proves, human trafficking is a crime against humanity hiding in plain sight,” Collins said. “Being a woman should not subject any individual to the risk of exploitation, harm or injury.”

Senator Collins sponsored legislation creating the Illinois Human Trafficking Task Force because human trafficking is a problem that affects residents across not only Illinois but all of the United States.

“We must continue to protect and support our vulnerable populations through proper training, evaluation and counseling,” Collins said. “The state and our law enforcement should provide a safe and encouraging environment for women and girls everywhere.“ The growing number of missing women and girls, especially Black women and girls such as Elise Malary, an Evanston resident missing for more than two days, presents a serious problem in the state.

SIMMONS TOURS BLACK-OWNED BUSINESS WITH GOVERNOR PRITZKER State Senator Mike Simmons (D-Chicago) welcomed Governor JB Pritzker to the 7th district last week where they toured Good to Go, a restaurant in Evanston specializing in Jamaican cuisine.

“It was an honor showing Governor Pritzker one of the best restaurants in my community,” Simmons said. “We are proud to have one of the most diverse communities in Illinois and in the nation, where people from all around the world can prosper and share their rich culture through food and conversation. I am especially proud and appreciative that Governor Pritzker takes the time to visit and show genuine appreciation for all that these small businesses add to our community.”

Good to Go is owned by Tony and Lenice Levy. Lenice Levy recently received the businessperson of the year award from the Evanston Chamber of Commerce in February.

“As the first Black senator for the 7th District, I am especially proud of how many Black-owned small businesses we have across the district, and am especially proud that many are owned by Black women. I will continue to use my platform to lift

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South Suburban | Week of March 23, 2022

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Scams Can Happen to Anyone. Here Are the Most Common Ones and How to Protect Yourself Chances are you know someone who has been a victim of fraud or scam. As a result of the pandemic, fraudsters are finding new ways to find victims. The good news is that there are simple ways for consumers to stay safe and fight back.

In a recent Chase survey of 2,000 consumers, 84% of survey respondents agreed that scams and scammers have become more sophisticated in recent years.

To spot fraud, it’s important to learn more about the most widespread scams, how to prevent them and what to do if you think you may be a victim.

How common are fraud and scams?

Fraud cases are unfortunately becoming more prevalent, and more sophisticated. In fact, the FTC revealed that 3.5 million people reported being a victim of fraud or identity theft in 2020, an increase of more than 1.5 million from the previous year. For Black communities, the problem is even worse with nearly half (40%) of Black adults being targeted by of online scams and fraud, according to AARP. What kind of scams exist that we should be aware of and know how to stop them?

While new scams are always popping up, there are several common approaches that keep resurfacing.

Some of the more common scams we’ve helped our customers fight against may not always seem so obvious.

What shocks many of our customers is how scam artists are willing to impersonate familiar faces, whether that be close relatives or community officials, and also trick you by using your own smart phone against you. So next time you receive a text message or email on your phone, think twice before you engage.

For example: Fake bank fraud specialist What they look like: Consumers receive a fraud alert via text message that appears to come from their bank. The message asks them to validate whether they made a certain purchase or sent a certain amount of money. After saying “no,” the recipient gets a call from someone claiming to be from their bank’s fraud team. The phone number may even appear to be a real phone number from your bank.

They’ll ask for the customer’s banking username, password or a one-time passcode. Alternatively, they’ll sometimes ask the customer to send money to themselves or a third party to “stop” the fraud or to get their money back. Once the scammer has gained access to a person’s account or convinced them to send money, they usually stop contact and the victim’s money is gone.

How to stop them: Unfortunately, scammers target consumers from many banks and they are very good at disguising themselves by “spoofing” or making their phone number

appear legitimate. Consumers should never share their banking password, one-time passcode, ATM pin or send money to someone who says that doing so will prevent fraud on their account. Bank employees won’t call, text or email consumers asking for this information, but crooks will. If you receive a call like this, hang up and call the phone number on your account statement, the back of your credit or debit card or bank website to verify the authenticity of the request.

Imposter scams What they look like: Someone will call or email you claiming to be from an organization you trust, like the Internal Revenue Service. They may threaten you by saying that if you don’t pay taxes or fees owed, they’ll bring a lawsuit against you.

How to stop them: If you think there’s truly a possibility that you owe money, don’t pay it to someone who initiates a call or email to you. Instead, hang up and call the organization in question directly.

Grandparent scams What they look like: You’ll get an email from a grandchild (or other relative) saying that they’re in trouble and need money fast.

How to stop them: Call your relative directly. If you can’t reach them, contact another relative who knows them and may know their whereabouts and circumstances. Whatever you do, don’t send money, purchase gift cards, or share any of your personal information, including your banking username and password. Scammers use threats and try to create a sense of urgency to trick you. Always trust your gut and end communication when something seems off.

What should you do to stop scam artists?

There are steps you can take to protect yourself.

DO: • Educate yourself on the most common scams. Fraud-

sters will use anything to their advantage — claiming to be from the IRS, pretending to offer tech support, baiting you with prizes or cash winnings — the sky’s the limit!

• Monitor credit score for free with Chase Credit Journey — you don’t even need to be a Chase customer to sign up! It will notify you if your data is compromised.

Plus, you’ll receive critical alerts that help protect your credit and identity.

• Review your accounts closely if you believe you may have fallen for a scam. With Chase, you can also set up account alerts so you can be notified of transactions on your account.

DON’T: • Click on suspicious links on emails or texts unless you’re sure it’s from a credible source. Only access your accounts through the bank’s mobile app or their website.

• Share personal information. Neither Chase nor any other bank will ever ask for your username, password, ATM pin, etc. when reaching out to you. Banks may ask for this information only when you call to discuss your account.

• Transfer money to someone claiming to be from your bank. Banks will never ask to send money via wire, check or other method to “stop or prevent fraud.”

• Pay someone using gift cards, especially when they claim to need them to remove a virus from your computer, stop fraud on your account or to buy plane tickets to come visit you.

What more can you do to protect yourself from fraud and scams?

One of the most effective things you can do to prevent fraud is to regularly monitor your bank and credit card accounts so that you can be on the lookout for signs of unusual activity.

Your bank’s mobile app can give you easy access to self-service tools that let you track your finances 24/7. If you spot something suspicious, immediately report any concerning activity to your bank.

Many banks, including Chase, also let you set up account alerts to help you detect unusual transactions to your bank or credit card by sending automatic notifications.

If you’re not sure if your bank or financial institution already offers these tools or services, be sure to ask.

If you believe that you may have been a victim of fraud or scams, there’s no need to feel embarrassed or ashamed. It can happen to anyone. What’s most important is to take immediate action.

To learn more about common scams and how to stop scammers in their tracks visit: www.chase.com/security-tips. You can also learn tips to identify and avoid financial abuse by visiting: www.chase.com/financialabuse.

ALLEN MEDIA GROUP PROMOTES DARREN GALATT TO CHIEF REVENUE OFFICER LOS ANGELES PRNewswire -- Byron Allen’s Allen Media Group (AMG) proudly announces the promotion of Darren Galatt to Chief Revenue Officer, effective immediately. Galatt’s previous title was President of Advertising Sales for Global Syndication, a position he held since 2016, where he oversaw advertising, sponsorships, and new business development across the full portfolio of AMG broadcast syndication and digital platforms.

Galatt has been an AMG employee since 2003, first as Vice President of Advertising Sales, and then promoted to President of Advertising Sales for the AMG Global Syndication division. In his newly-elevated position, Galatt will continue to be responsible for advertising, sponsorships, and new business development across the full

portfolio of the AMG broadcast syndication, television networks, and digital platforms. As Chief Revenue Officer, Galatt will now be responsible for the coordination and expansion of revenue and new business development across the Allen Media Group portfolio of media assets.

Prior to Galatt’s 19 years with AMG, he spent over a decade in national broadcast buying, where he held positions at various advertising agencies including J. Walter Thompson, McCann Erickson, and Carat. His major accounts included Sprint, Coca-Cola, and Pfizer.

“It is both an honor and a blessing to continue working alongside Byron Allen after 19 years. It has been exciting to watch Allen Media Group go from 2 employees to over

2,000 employees, by starting with only one weekly syndicated television show and growing into a multi-platform media conglomerate,” said Darren Galatt, Chief Revenue Officer of Allen Media Group.

In 2016, Allen Media Group purchased The Grio, a highly-rated digital video-centric news community platform devoted to providing African-Americans with compelling stories and perspectives currently underrepresented in existing national news outlets. The Grio features aggregated and original video packages, news articles and opinion pieces on topics that include breaking news, politics, health, business and entertainment. Originally launched in 2009, the platform was then purchased by NBC News in 2010. The digital platform remains focused on curating exciting digital content and currently has more than 100 million annual visitors.

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South Suburban | Week of March 23, 2022

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Yummy Extensions + KOSA Professionals Celebrates International Women’s Day New York, NY – Yumhair extensions with zero synmy Extensions and KOSA thetic fibers, animal hair, or foul Professionals celebrated smell. Extensions can be worn International Women’s Day straight, wavy or curly, and clip on Tuesday, March 8, with a ins are also available meetbreakfast joined by Yummy ing all your hair style needs.

Extensions brand ambassador, When taken care of properly, actress and TV personality Yummy Extensions can last Vanessa Simmons. Guests adfor up to five years. Celebrity mired a hair demonstration of fans include Angela Simmons, Yummy Extensions authentic Saweetie, and Angela Bassett. natural human hair extensions, After the success of styled by KOSA Professionals Yummy Extensions, Yummie innovative hot tools, as they O launched KOSA Profesindulged in light bites at Palma sionals in 2019 to improve the NYC in the West Village. lives of everyday people with Yummie O, CEO & Founder of their bestselling Elite Infrared Yummy Extensions and KOSA Styler, the versatile heat styler Professionals spoke on behalf can straighten hair or used to of the brands sharing her encreate beach waves. The styler trepreneurial journey when she shuts off automatically after leaped out on faith, leaving her sixty minutes. The fan-facareer in IT consulting to start vorite Triple Threat Infrared her own business after finding Blow dryer helps to achieve her passion in the beauty indusprofessional blow outs with try. With Yummy Extensions ease. This light-weight blow and KOSA Professionals, Yum- PHOTO CREDIT: TERRY GRUBER, GRUBER PHOTOGRAPHERS dryer comes with 3 heat setmie continues to help open doors for all women in the tings along with the coveted cool shot button perfect beauty industry. to protect all hair types. The full line features 6 With over 10 years in business and store-front different hair stylers ranging from ($95 - $195) and locations in both Dallas and Brooklyn NY, Yummy each tool is available in Black and Blush. KOSA Extensions works with small family-based factories in Professionals is on a mission to create heat tools that Cambodia and Myanmar allowing them to control and will help you and hairstylists alike to create flawless maintain the quality process. Quality is a top priority hairstyles that are sleek and won’t compromise the for Yummy Extensions providing both raw and virgin health of your hair.

Kinkistry’s 2022 Hairstyle Trends for Women of Color Natural hairstyles continue to be a necessary part of self and societal acceptance for women of color in 2022, and Kinkistry is here to help create gorgeous looks Kinkistry that turn heads and bring out confidence for an all-around fabulous spring.

Unsure of what curl pattern matches best? Kinkistry is the only natural hair extensions company to offer Certified Texture Matching so you can get your perfect natural look. No wonder they’re the #1 kinky, curly extensions brand, with all offerings made from 100% virgin human hair.

Designed exclusively to accentuate the hair of women of color, enjoy twisted, braided, or bantu knotted styles, available in six textures ranging from 3a-4c.

Founder Angela Fite’ set out to ensure representation among Black women, who spend nine times more on beauty products than their non-Black counterparts.

“Our hair is not just our crown and glory, it represents our heritage, our ancestry, and our culture,” says Angela. “At Kinkistry, we are committed to changing the narrative and propagating a positive image of natural hair inclusive of all textures on the

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SOUTH SUBURBAN

spectrum. Kinkistry’s new mantra, “No curl left behind,” means we are reclaiming our power and redefining how we are jrepresented in the beauty industry and corporate America. We are doing our natural hair on our own terms!”

Kinkistry protects natural hair and helps avoid breakage due to heating tools and chemicals. Check out these best-selling product lines that blend seamlessly into hair. Prices range from $120 to $510.

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Kinkistry is the brainchild of Angela Fite’, an African American Naturalista on a mission to wake up the beauty industry to the needs of women of color.

Kinkistry delivers customized hair extensions for accentuating your every curl, kink, and coil. Follow them on Instagram @kinkistry.

For more information, visit https://kinkistry.com.

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Black Fashion Designers Create The Perfect Spring Looks The Black Fashion Week| USA runway event returned for its 7th annual fashion week over the weekend ending Black History Month and Celebrating Women’s History Month in Chicago, IL. The event took place in Chicago, IL where it all began 7 years ago with a vision to highlight designers of color, promoting and exposing their brand aesthetics to the general public nationwide in key metropolitan cities.

The runway show featured six designers Dream Designs, Amara Blak, Bel Blak Couture, Thom Kat Fashion & Art Boutique, Stephane St. Jaymes and emerging designer Jonathan Thedford who all showcased their new & exciting spring 2022 collections.

The Designers who showcased with Black Fashion Week 2022 included four talented black women designers whose collections were full of vibrant, playful patterns, colors, dual textures in some of the most fascination silhouettes just perfect for the upcoming 2020 spring season proms, weddings and festive occasions. Emerging designer Jonathan Thedford debuted his first ever fashion week collection which included beautiful two-piece evening ensembles with a focus on asymmetrical high/low skirts. The final designer of the runway included international Designer Stephane St. Jayme’s born in London, but now residing in Chicago IL. His head turning collection featured a combination of classic black, and nude hues in eye catching nontraditional, yet futuristic silhouettes with dashes of ostrich embellishments adorning his garments. Beauty services were provided by Chicago’s very one

by Makeup First makeup artistry school along THE BLACK FASHION WEEK with Delali Robinson Cosmetics, 360 Blowout bar, Carla NaTasha & Studio 83.

The event took place live at the Royal Garden Banquet Halls located 2515 N. Harlem, Ave. and was hosted by Dr. Nakita Nicci “The Media Doctor” as seen on the hit Bravo’s hit TV show “To Rome for Love.”

Guest enjoyed music by DJ sensation DJ Bsyde, delicious bites & treats from our featured chef, The Purple Ribbon Chef” drinks from Barefoot Wine and fabulous swag bags courtesy of Curls.Biz featuring a host of products from sponsors such as Minovet, B Fragranced and Delali Cosmetics and Luster Haircare. Visit www.blackfashionweekusa.com to read more about each designer.

J. Dow Fitness Launches Spring Collection 2022 ATLANTA PRNewswire -- Blazing on the heels of the amazing nationwide feature at Target in February, J. Dow Fitness announces its 2022 Spring Collection, The collection featuring a combination of activewear, athleisure apparel and a new fitness accessory, It is available exclusively on the J. Dow Fitness website.

Customers will love the special features which include a supportive sports bra, full length top, high-waist legging, popular bodysuit and bottoms with pockets.

“The Spring Collection was designed to help women look cute, feel comfortable and release self-confidence as they prioritize their health and commit to their fitness and nutrition goals,” said J. Dow Fitness Founder, Dr. Jacqueline Dow. Starting J. Dow Fitness has provided Dr. Dow the opportunity to merge her background PRNewsFoto as a public health research scientist with practical approaches that empower women to live their healthiest and best lives. J. Dow Fitness caters to the body type of every woman by carrying inclusive sizes that range from small to 3XL. Our brand provides a combination of activewear, athleisure apparel and fitness accessories. Over the years, J. Dow Fitness has partnered with Target Corporation and featured in Ebony, Huff Post, Who What Wear and The Grio.

For more information about J. Dow Fitness follow @jdowfitness on all social media platforms and www.jdowfitness.com.

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UChicago launches scholarships and comprehensive support for students and scholars impacted by war in Ukraine Initiative to include mentoring, streamlined application process and Center in Paris programming to help students pursue higher education As part of a comprehensive effort to supstudies in Ukraine port students and scholars impacted by the war in “The invasion of Ukraine and the devastatUkraine, the University of Chicago announced today ing humanitarian crisis that is unfolding has many that it will provide full-tuition scholarships for undimensions, including the disruption of the lives dergraduate students affected by the invasion. and careers of scholars and students who have the The new initiative is potential to contribute to new inspired by the impact that “By providing these resources knowledge that will benefit the University has seen after humanity,” said UChicago and expanding the support supporting other students and President Paul Alivisatos. scholars affected by globis ready to expand available through our Center in “UChicago al wars and crises in recent admission efforts and support decades. UChicago is comfor displaced students and Paris, we hope to support the mitted to bringing together scholars who are impacted by potential of the young people students and scholars of all the war in Ukraine and events backgrounds from around impacted by the war in Ukraine across the region.” the world in a setting of free UChicago’s Center in and ensure their futures are not Paris—which serves as the expression. In addition to full-tuition scholarships, the derailed by political conflict and University’s regional hub plan includes: for education, research and violence.”

• Expanded programcollaboration across Europe, ming in college readiness and the Middle East and Africa— preparation for college appliin June will begin offering cations for students from Ukraine; such remote and in-person and online admission and college-readiin-person programming will be based at UChicago’s ness support. The support will include a streamlined Center in Paris UChicago application process for students from • Increased financial support and other services Ukraine who are unable to complete their final for current UChicago students and scholars affected semesters, and a connection to help them apply to by the war in Ukraine who have financial hardship more than 150 other institutions of higher education • Expanded fellowship programs for current through the Coalition for College app. For more college students who are unable to continue their T:6" information on the College initiative, please visit

Gary Native Returns to Region to Promote Celebrity Comedy Shows in Chicago

“MY PARENTS GOT ME VACCINATED BECAUSE THEY WANTED TO PROTECT ME.”

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Despite his decades long career as a Hollywood comedian and actor, Buddy Lewis has not forgotten his Gary, IN roots. His most recent project is in Chicago, and he is inviting all of Gary, Northwest Indiana and Chicagoland to join in the fun. The first Saturday of each month, Lewis is hosting comedy shows at the ETA Theater, 7558 S. South Chicago Ave. featuring Chicago-born comics.

“The pandemic dealt some hard blows to the theater industry,” said the West Side High School and Howard University grad. “ The ETA theater is a widely-known venue that has been featuring Black talent for more than 50 years, giving artists like me a platform to showcase our talents. I am doing my part to ensure this continues.”

Lewis says the monthly shows will continue through the end of summer followed by a brief hiatus for renovations to the theater. The April 2nd shows, which take place at 7:00 p.m. and 10:00 p.m., feature Chicago favorites Kenny Howell, George Willborn and Lewis as host.

Lewis is also working with the production team on the return of the hit series “The Real House Husbands of Hollywood” and is set to appear in several films later this year.

“I have been afforded many opportunities and blessed to travel to many places, but there’s no place like home,” said Lewis. “It would make me so proud not only to fill every seat in support of the ETA theater, but to see my Gary people in the house. I promise it will be a fun outing that you can plan to attend every month through August.”

General admission is $25, and VIP packages are also available. Parking is free.

For more information, visit https://www.etacreativearts. org/.

—BRYNN, AGE 6

PROTECT THEIR CHILDHOOD. GET THEM VACCINATED TODAY.

Visit Chicago.gov/ChildVax

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UChicago’s international financial aid website.

“UChicago was founded as a beacon of academic excellence, and that includes supporting the global academic community in times of great need,” said John W. Boyer, dean of the College and the Martin A. Ryerson Distinguished Service Professor of History and the College. “By providing these resources and expanding the support available through our Center in Paris, we hope to support the potential of the young people impacted by the war in Ukraine and ensure their futures are not derailed by political conflict and violence.”

UChicago is also working with individual scholars and scientists in Ukraine and with the national Scholars At Risk organization, to place them in departments and laboratories at the University. Scholars at Risk was founded at UChicago in 1999 to offer safe harbor and academic freedom for scholars facing danger in their home countries.

UChicago has a long history of welcoming students and scholars from around the world to advance the exchange of ideas, including during times of conflict and crisis. Refugees from Europe in the 1930s and 1940s made historic contributions at UChicago in the sciences and other academic fields, including Nobel laureate Enrico Fermi. In recent years, UChicago has helped students and scholars from Afghanistan and Iraq, and extended support to students from Puerto Rico who were impacted by the 2017 hurricanes.

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CTA Hosts Meeting Regarding Future Contracted Work as Part of the Proposed Red Line Extension Project Agency brings together local vendors and suppliers to discuss business opportunities with a special emphasis on Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE) participation As part of its commitment to extend contracting opportunities to the communities it serves, the Chicago Transit Authority (CTA), hosted a virtual meeting for local small businesses and disadvantaged business enterprises (DBEs) to learn more about upcoming contracting opportunities as part of the proposed Red Line Extension (RLE) project.

“The Red Line Extension is a critical project for mobility and growth in Chicago,” said CTA President Dorval R. Carter, Jr. “For those minority- or women-owned businesses interested in working on the project, this is your opportunity to learn more about this major public works effort and what is required to get involved.”

As part of this initial meeting, “Route to Procurement”, interested vendors were provided an update on the overall RLE project, benefits for small business participation in future contracting opportunities, as well as steps on how to become certified to do business with the CTA. Although the proposed RLE project is still in development, there are plenty of prospects for robust DBE participation in the next steps of the project.

More than 300 businesses owners registered for today’s virtual event. Owners of

minority- and women-owned businesses who were unable to attend today’s meeting, but are still interested in becoming vendors and suppliers, are strongly encouraged to view the webinar, which is posted on the RLE project website at transitchicago.com/RLE. In the coming weeks and through the remainder of the year, CTA will be hosting several pre-bid meetings regarding future contracting opportunities for the RLE project. Dates and additional details of these meetings will be announced later.

The proposed extension of the Red Line is the most transformational project in CTA history. As part of this project, the Red Line would be extended from the existing terminal at 95th/Dan Ryan to 130th Street, subject to the availability of funding. This 5.6-mile extension would include four new, fully accessible rail stations near 103rd Street, 111th Street, Michigan Avenue, and 130th Street. Each new station would include multimodal connections including bus, bike, pedestrian, and park & ride facilities. More than just transit, this project is intended to bring equity, access, and economic opportunity to the Far South Side of Chicago by connecting people to direct and sustainable rail transit.

Camille Weatherspoon Awarded the South Suburban Small Business Association Award The South Suburban Small Business Association (SSSBA) recognizes annually a student who has started a business that benefits the community. Rich Township High School District 227 Sophomore Camille Weatherspoon was nominated and interviewed by the head of the Summit Awards committee, Don Grimwood, and proceeded to the next round. All the applicants were voted on by the executive board and Camille was chosen, even though she was a Sophomore. Recipients have previously been juniors or seniors. Camille was recognized at SSSBA’s annual banquet. Since the ceremony was virtual this year, the head of the committee wanted to present the award personally to Camille. The award was presented by Don Grimwood and Joyce L. Kelley who are members of the SSSBA board.

Camille Weatherspoon is a part of National Honor Society, Volleyball and the Illinois Math and Science Academy. Her business, Exclusive Radiance, sells beauty products and handmade self-care products. Her business was birthed during the pandemic. She was inspired by her aunt and her father’s business ventures.

Upon graduation, Camille would like to go to a 4-year university and major in psychology. Her ultimate goal is to obtain a Ph.D. in psychology. She is passionate about helping others and providing mental health support for her community.

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South Suburban | Week of March 23, 2022

From left to right: Justin Andrews, Benjy Griffith, Karla Redding-Andrews, Zelma Redding, Macon-Bibb Mayor Lester Miller, Dr. Kevin Williams, Kimberly Epps, Mirako Loyde

Otis Redding Foundation Announces New Center for the Arts & Amphitheater MACON, Ga., PRNewswire -- The Otis Redding Foundation is excited to announce the planned 9,000 square foot Otis Redding Center for the Arts and Amphitheater located in a place that is famous for its musical talent and heritage.

It is envisioned as a central destination for youth educational programs in music and the arts.

“There is no better place to be located, where musicians like a young Otis Redding, Little Richard, and Lena Horne started right here,” said Macon-Bibb Mayor Lester Miller at the March 1 announcement.

The Center will feature two stories of art lab spaces, practice rooms, and studio space for students to explore songwriting, production, performance, and more. An outside amphitheater will open onto downtown Macon’s main thoroughfare and serve as a venue for student performances, a music-filled community gathering space, and a public face on the Otis Redding Foundation’s commitment to preserving Macon’s musical legacy and investing in the city’s next generation of artists.

During his life, Macon-based Soul singer Otis Redding led philanthropic efforts in the Middle Georgia community through scholarships and financial opportunities for disadvantaged youth. Though a tragic plane crash in 1967 cut Otis Redding’s life short, his legacy and dedication to education in his community would live on through his widow, Zelma Redding, who formally established the Otis Redding Foundation in 2007 in her late husband’s honor.

“Educating children through music was a dream of my

husband’s,” said Redding. “He would have been proud of the Foundation’s programs that emphasize creativity and inspiration.”

In 2020, the Knight Foundation provided the Otis Redding Foundation a grant to research a location and devise a plan for a new Center space. Once the location was identified, Mrs. Zelma Redding made a gift of $1 million to purchase the property. Her gift, along with a generous donation from the Griffith Foundation, led initial fundraising efforts.

“I truly believe that making sure all children have equal access to share and build their musical and artistic strengths will help them become well-rounded students, thus making the future of our community brighter,” stated Benjy Griffith, founder of the Griffith Foundation. “The Otis Redding Center for the Arts will most definitely assist with that crucial access to arts education.”

“With planning well underway for an Otis Redding Center for the Arts, we need you,” said existing Center student and high school senior Mirako Loyde. “We need your Determination. We need your Resilience. We need your Energy. We need your Ambition. We need your Mastery.

Otis Redding had a dream. Young people like me have even bigger dreams.”

To DONATE and/or LEARN more on how to join the Foundation’s mission to empower, enrich and motivate all young people through programs involving music, writing, and instrumentation at the Otis Redding Center for the Arts, visit otisreddingfoundation.org/donate or call 478-742-5737.

Clix Celebrates the Top Streaming Women In Front and Behind the Camera (Black PR Wire) LOS ANGELES-- (BUSINESS WIRE) -- Clix, the streaming guidance gurus, today picks the Top 20 streaming movies and series, which showcase leading women talent in front and behind the camera for International Women’s Day. With billions of dollars in new production coming online and a galaxy of women stars streaming to the top of our cultural consciousness, here’s a simple-to-wade through list of the best of what to watch in a tribute to Women’s History Month: Zoë Kravitz: KIMI Zoë Kravitz is an agoraphobic techie who discovers evidence of a violent crime. She’s met with resistance when she tries to report it. So…she must do the thing she fears the most to find justice: leave her apartment. Stream Sneak on Clix. Binge on HBO Max. Ariana DeBose and Rita Moreno: West Side Story

The new musical takes on Sharks vs. Jets street gangs in 1957 NYC and the dangerous love-at-first-sight sparks between Maria and Tony. Ariana DeBose is the breakout star as Anita.

Iconic Rita Moreno, won an Oscar for playing Anita in 1961 in the original West Side Story. She now plays Valentina and is also an executive producer on the Steven Spielberg film. Sneak on Clix. Streaming on Disney+ and HBO Max. Shonda Rhimes: Bridgerton – Season 2 Super producer, Shonda Rhimes’ historical romance Bridgerton premiers in Season 2 on Netflix, March 25. Spoiler: Lady Whistledown reveals that Viscount Anthony Bridgerton will dominate the London social season.

For more information visit: www.clix.com

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Legendary hip-hop artist DMC teams up with the Song That Owns Itself (stoi.org) to launch a new track LOS ANGELES CNW -- The team behind The Song That Owns Itself has launched STOI #3 in collaboration with DMC, one-third of the legendary hip-hop group RUN-DMC. Together they have tokenized DMC’s song “Million Scars,” enabling fans to co-own a piece of the song and thus share in its future success including any revenue earned from streaming, licensing, and more. The launch was celebrated on Monday, March 14, with DMC in conversation and performing at The AlgoRanch, an Algorand pop-up event in Austin, TX coinciding with SXSW. Today’s announcement with DMC marks the third major artist utilizing the stoi.org technology, with STOI #1 and #2 coming from Grammy-nominated PRNewsFoto artist Superposition and Jesse Boykins III. Artist DMC shares his thoughts: “For years companies have been trying to get me to do something on blockchain. I have been hesitant because so much of it seemed about speculation, and I was worried about the environmental impact. I didn’t want to be another celebrity putting out NFTs or whatever just because it’s the hot thing to do and people are giving me money to do it.

Then George Howard (arts advisor to Algorand and stoi.org founding member) reached out and introduced me to Algorand which has not only proven that blockchain can be carbon neutral, but is also already being used in so many ways that bring real value to the world. Releasing a STOI today is the first step in launching my DMC (Decentralized Media Company) with the larger goal of creating the next iteration of the music industry that values creators, fans and supports them all in the most transparent and fair way possible.” stoi.org is a revolutionary shared-ownership platform for music; each STOI is a “smart contract” that governs profit sharing for each song, split between creators and fans. At its heart, it allows creators to take back control of their works while rewarding all parties involved in its continued success.

The STOI tokens for “Million Scars” will be distributed via airdrop to attendees of the AlgoRanch pop-up event today in Austin and online at stoi.org/s/3.

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NEW SYNERGY FOR BLACK WORLD PROGRESS Black Americans urged to join African-Caribbean initiative

was held in Cape Coast, where the former slave soluble.” He hoped increased trade and cultural castle with the “Door of No Return” is located. The cooperation would lead to greater cooperation with Barbados leader indicated that her presence in the Caribbean countries.

Hope is on the horizon for a Black world renaishistoric Ghanaian city was a testimony that “we have In addition to the “Beyond the Return” prosance. This is the expected outcome of an agreement returned to Africa, the motherland.” gram,” black Americans are encouraged to join the reached by member-states of the African Union (AU) She declared, “The resilience of Africans in African-Caribbean initiative. Black American capiand the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) at their the Diaspora has triumphed over decades and cental, technology and market can play an effective role virtual first summit. The agreement calls for boostunder the AU-CARICOM program for their mutual turies of slavery, foreign rule and exploitation.

It’s ing trade, investment and technology among them to benefit.

Black American leaders must therefore work time we work together in solidarity to fight the batuplift their people from poverty, malnutrition and ilwith the leaders of the two bodies to boost trade, tles of our times for shared prosperity and progress.” literacy they inherited from slavery and colonialism. investment and technology with other black people.

Among those problems, she listed are COVID-19, With the world now opening for in-person transacWith the Black world’s immense resources, the tions, Barbados and Ghana are urging the two bodies vaccine nationalism, and the increasing high cost of PD018454_1e02_QEXL1224000_ComEd_WHM_10_75x6_5.pdf Barbados leader stressed that they could make their living faced by emerging nations. to begin to Client: implement the summit’s agreement.

ComEd Bleed: 10.75 in x 6.5 in Notes: Chicago Citizen Newspaper Group Inks Used: CMYK people self-sufficient if Links: they CC018454_c02_ComEd_shutterare utilized effectively.

Making her second visit to Ghana, she apGhana’s President Nana Campaign: WHM Print Ads Akufo-Addo and Trim: Bar10.75 in x 6.5 in Fonts: Diodrum Regular stock_2125868843_NP.tif (1193 ppi; CMYK) “Africa and the Caribbean command a vast market CC018454_d02_ComEd_shutterLive:calls 10.75 in x 6.5 in plauded the country’s support for Barbados’s in- Diodrum Semibold bados Prime Minister Mia Mottley made the Agency Job #: B1241-023959-00 (1688 ppi; CMYK) with enormous resourcesstock_2125868819_NP.tif and strategic commodities dependence. “Ghana under first president Kwame Diodrum Light during the recent 65th independence anniverProdigiousGhana Job #: B114-018454-00 Keyline Scale: Actual Size, 100% Diodrum Medium CC018454_a02_ComEd_shutterthat can be harnessed for the benefit of their Nkrumah was an inspiration to Barbados in our fight sary parade that was transmitted world-wide. stock_2125868738_NP.tif (1631 people, ppi; CMYK) AD #/AD ID: QEXL1224000 Region: US instead of allowing foreign countries to exploit them for independence.

My country is turning back to “The time of black people of the world is Page: Full Page Language: English Ghana for us to work together for the needs of our for their gain,” she effort. here,” declared the Ghanaian leader, who is credited Date Modified: 3-18-2022 1:50 PM Pan-Africanists like Marcus Garvey, W.E.B. for initiating the program “Year of Return “ to Africa peoples,” she said.

NOT TOhas BE provided USED FORBarbados COLOR APPROVAL DuBois and Kwame Nkrumah must be applauded for Ghana with a group in 2019 marking the 400th anniversary of the AtlanECD:N/A CD: N/A AD: N/A CW: N/A P: N/A CSM: N/A PD: Daren their pioneering efforts in this direction. This new iniofJames health workers to meet an increasing demand, tic Slave Trade. and there are plans to recruit 200 more nurses from tiative, however, is a step further to reality because of To encourage more Black Americans to parGhana. Officials of the two countries have also the involvement of all African and Caribbean leaders. ticipate in the program, now dubbed “Beyond the The leaders will be able to make use of their countries’ Return,” the Ghana president is due in Charlotte, NC been asked to work to establish direct travel routes between Barbados and Ghana. Already, Barbados has God-given resources and talents to build self-suffilater this month to address the International Chrisopened her first African diplomatic mission in Accra, cient economies for their people. So, all African and tian Leaders Summit at the invitation of Bishop T.D. Ghana’s capital, followed by another in Nairobi, Caribbean countries must heed the calls by Ghana and Jakes. About 3,000 black Americans have already Barbados to begin the process of implementing their been attracted to Ghana by the program that provides Kenya.

Also, in reaffirming his country’s continued agreement. Ghana’s President Akufo-Addo is confident 500 acres of land to returnees to build houses, farms interest in relations with Barbados, the Ghanaian of divine support for this initiative. “The battle is the or businesses. leader stated, “Our relations with Barbados go back Lord’s,” he quoted from the Scriptures in ending his With the theme, “Working Together, Bouncing Back Together,” Ghana’s anniversary parade decades to the Atlantic Slave Trade and are indisanniversary address amid thunderous cheers.

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BY NICHOLAS OKAIJAH-THOMPSON

BUILD

ENGINEER

Consider this: Only about 1 in 4 of the current STEM (science, technology, engineering, math) workforce are women. ComEd believes that’s not nearly enough.

That’s why we’re launching a $250,000 Future of Energy scholarship program for women and people of color pursuing STEM-related degrees in college.

To apply, visit: ComEd.com/STEMscholarship

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A FRACTION TODAY. A FORCE TOMORROW.

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HBCU All-Stars, LLC Announces Rosters, Award Winners for Inaugural All-Star Game NEW ORLEANS - The HBCU All-Star Game, taking place on Sunday, April 3 during Final Four weekend in New Orleans at the UNO Lakefront Arena at 4 pm ET, has named the nation’s top 24 players who will make up the two rosters for the inaugural contest.

The game will air live on the CBS Television Network and be available to stream on Paramount+.

Comprised of some of the best basketball players in the four HBCU NCAA Division I and II conferences in the country and backed by the official founding partner, Aflac, the 24 selections will be split up into two teams of 12 for the historic game, named after a pair of HBCU legends in John McLendon and Clarence “Big House” Gaines.

“The 24 players that have been selected represent the best in college basketball at our country’s prestigious black colleges and universities. Our HBCU All-Stars national scouting staff did an amazing job for the past three months evaluating some of the most talented players from the 48 HBCUs. We know there were many players deserving of the opportunity to play in this game,” said HBCU All-Stars LLC Founder and CEO Travis L. Williams.

“This is history in the making and has been a long journey to get to this point, but we are just getting started and expect to put on a great event with our amazing CBS Sports partners and HBCU All-Stars staff in New Orleans.”

Team McLendon is comprised of players who compete in the Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference (MEAC) and Southern Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (SIAC), while Team Gaines will be made up of players who compete in the Southwestern Athletic Conference (SWAC) and Central Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (CIAA).

Along with the announcement of the players for the game, HBCU AllStars also announced the postseason individual award winners who will be honored at the game in April. The HBCU All-Stars Ben Jobe NCAA Division I Coach of the Year is Robert Jones of Norfolk State University, while the HBCU All-Stars Jerry Johnson NCAA Division II Coach of the Year is Fred Watson of Miles College.

With a mission to advocate, educate, expose, mentor and invest in HBCU student-athletes and coaches across the country, the event aims to showcase the best in Black college basketball. Launched by HBCU All-Stars LLC, a Black-owned sports marketing and events company in Atlanta, the HBCU All-Star Game brings much needed exposure, visibility and recognition to outstanding, talented and hardworking HBCU student-athletes and coaches.

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(BPRW) Racial Equity Video Anthology launched to spread insight and inspiration from grassroots leaders making change (Black PR Wire) Thank you to everyone who joined for this year’s State of Black Philanthropy. Together, we honored and uplifted Black generosity, leadership, and community impact. We experienced the deep wisdom, power, and insights of community leaders and creatives building momentum for a more equitable and just Greater Miami.

And to keep building momentum, the Foundation has launched a Racial Equity Video Anthology - a unique resource to spread visibility and understanding. This public video collection gives anyone access to community leaders sharing their work on racial equity and justice systemic change and Foundation perspectives. It is full of rich insight and inspiration that we hope will help inform and fuel community change.

Seeing people personally share their stories has a unique power and is how the anthology came about. The project originated when instead of a written proposal process for the 2021 Racial Equity Fund awards, we innovated to use video.

We could see, listen, and record conversations. Groups could express more easily their complex work, changing systems that hold racial inequity and injustice in place. We could capture purpose and plans but also experience their vision and passion beyond written words.

We knew we needed to create something broader to elevate and amplify the work and this experience. That something is the Racial Equity Video Anthology collection of videos that anyone can view and download here.

We encourage you to engage with these leaders’ lived experiences and work. To learn and bring those doing this groundwork driving change ‘into the room’ - to be seen, heard, inspire, and inform. A staff gathering. A classroom. A boardroom. A dinner table. Your networks. You hold the possibilities to help us elevate them to shape our community. We hope you, like the Foundation, will gain inspiration and knowledge from the anthology and use it to advance our movement for greater equity and justice.

MAJOR LEAGUE SOCCER LAUNCHES NATIONWIDE PARTNERSHIP WITH THE NATIONAL BLACK BANK FOUNDATION NEW YORK PRNewswire -- Major League Soccer today announced that it would leverage a historic $25 million loan from a syndicate of Black banks, marking the first time any sports league has participated in a major commercial transaction exclusively with Black banks. Facilitated by the nonprofit National Black Bank Foundation (NBBF), the partnership is the latest significant step in a series of ongoing efforts by MLS in the Diversity, Equity and Inclusion space.

Major League Soccer (MLS) and National Blank Bank Foundation (NBBF) leaders join with Dr. Bernice A. King to announce MLS’s historic $25 million transaction with Black-owned banks across the country.

“Major League Soccer’s partnership with the National Black Bank Foundation is a tangible step in the efforts to close the racial economic gap in the United States, and it’s the right business decision for us,” said MLS Commissioner Don Garber. “As a league, we continue to increase our initiatives in support of racial justice. In order to make a genuine impact, economic justice must be part of the equation. This transaction with a syndicate of community-focused Black banks is an important measure, and it is our hope this will raise awareness of the importance of Black-owned banks and their impact on the economy.”

The transaction announced today, coupled with the league’s strong credit rating, will grow the banks’ capital cushion through fees and interest earned, creating additional capacity for new lines of credit for home and small business loans in communities of color across the country. In facilitating the loan, the NBBF organized a syndication team led by Atlanta-based Citizens Trust Bank and New York-based Carver Federal Savings Bank.

“Major League Soccer has raised the bar for corporate America with this transformative partnership,” NBBF co-founder and general counsel, Ashley Bell, said. “If other leagues and major corporations follow the MLS model, lives of Black families all across this country will change for the better because their local Black bank will have the capital resources to approve historic numbers of home and small business loans.”

Black banks fuel social mobility in the United States by connecting borrowers of color to capital. However, the sector’s impact has

Major League Soccer (MLS) and National Blank Bank Foundation (NBBF) leaders join with Dr. Bernice A. King to announce MLS’s historic $25 million transaction with Black-owned banks across the country. L to R: NBBF Co-Founder Brandon Comer; Black Players For Change Founder and MLS veteran Quincy Amarikwa; King Center CEO Dr. Bernice A. King; MLS Chief Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Officer Sola Winley; NBBF Co-Founder Ashley Bell. PRNewsfoto/Major League Soccer

been limited by a chronic, acute undercapitalization that has restricted the flow of credit it could create for underserved borrowers.

According to the Federal Reserve, the Black-white economic gap in the United States has remained virtually untouched since the Civil Rights Movement. Historical efforts by Black families to escape the continuum of poverty by building intergenerational wealth, primarily through homeownership and small business entrepreneurship, have been thwarted by racialized credit access. In 2020, lenders denied Black mortgage applicants at a rate 84% higher than white borrowers.

In October 2020, MLS unveiled a series of initiatives aimed at combatting racism, advocating for social justice and increasing Black representation in the sport. Using the league’s resources and platform to make tangible contributions to closing the racial wealth gap is one important component of MLS’ commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion.

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LEGAL NOTICE/ PUBLIC NOTICE

SERVICE

Notice is hereby given, pursuant to “An Act in relation to the use of an Assumed Business Name in the conduct or transaction of Business in the State,”� as amended, that a certification was registered by the undersigned with the County Clerk of Cook County. Registration Number: Y22008788 on MARCH 11, 2022. Under the Assumed Business Name of THE COMFORT COLLECTION BY YASHIA with the business located at: 11105 SOUTH KEDZIE AVENUE, CHICAGO, ILLINOIS 60655. The true and real full name(s) and residence address of the owner(s)/partner(s) is: Owner/Partner Full Name RABIHAH SIMMONS RILEY Complete Address: 11105 SOUTH KEDZIE AVENUE, CHICAGO, ILLINOIS 60655, USA. _______________________________________ Notice is hereby given pursuant to “An Act in relation to the use of an Assumed Business Name in the conduct or transaction of Business in the State”, as amended, that a certification was registered by the undersigned with the County Clerk of Cook County. Registration Number: Y22008737 on MARCH 4, 2022. Under the Assumed Business Name of WAR AND LOVE CO. with the business located at: 11105 SOUTH KEDZIE AVENUE, CHICAGO, IL 60655. The true and real full name(s) and residence address of the owner(s) / partner (s) is: Owner/Partner Full Name RABIHAH SIMMONS RILEY Complete Address 11105 S. KEDZIE, CHICAGO, IL 60655, USA _______________________________________

CREDIT REPAIR SERVICE New Credit Repair can remove collection from credit move late payment bankruptcy repossession foreclosure charge off call Ronnie Smith (346) 237-0221 cost $500.00 __________________________________

REAL ESTATE HUD/BANK FORECLOSURES CITY & SUBURBS Call: FRED D. CLINK (773) 294-5870 REALTY SERVICES CONSORTIUM ____________________________________ 3+ Bedroom HOMES FOR SALE SELLER FINANCING Call: FRED D. CLINK (773) 294-5870 REALTY SERVICES CONSORTIUM ____________________________________ IMBC Lending Ronnie Smith Loan Officer FHA/VA Conventional Loans, Call Me For YOur Mortgage Needs Ronnie Smith (346) 237-0221 _____________________________________ SWP 3-23-2022

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CD#123122

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF COOK COUNTY, ILLINOIS COUNTY DEPARTMENT - CHANCERY DIVISION TOORAK CAPITAL PARTNERS, LLC Plaintiff, -v.- PROSPEROUS CONNECTION LLC, AN ILLINOIS LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY, ANA L. ARREDONDO, AN INDIVIDUAL, JOSE GUTIERREZ, AN INDIVIDUAL, JOSE R. SANCHEZ, AN INDIVIDUAL, CARLYLE 11, LLC, AN ILLINOIS LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY, UNKNOWN OWNERS AND NON-RECORD CLAIMANTS Defendants 21CH03916 5659 S. KILDARE AVE CHICAGO, IL 60629 NOTICE OF SALE PUBLIC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered in the above cause on March 4, 2022, an agent for The Judicial Sales Corporation, will at 10:30 AM on April 25, 2022, 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 5659 S. KILDARE AVE, CHICAGO, IL 60629 Property Index No. 19-15-210-023-0000 AND 19-15-210024-0000 The real estate is improved with a multifamily commercial investment property. The judgment amount was $169,874.11. 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 ted. The balance, including the Judicial Sale fee for the Abandoned Residential Property Municipality Relief Fund, which is calculated on

Darrell Garth President /Publisher

accepted. The balance, including the Judicial Sale fee for the Abandoned Residential Property Municipality Relief Fund, which is calculated on residential real estate at the rate of $1 for each $1,000 or fraction thereof of the amount paid by the purchaser not to exceed $300, in certified funds/or wire transfer, is due within twenty-four (24) hours. No fee shall be paid by the mortgagee acquiring the residential real estate pursuant to its credit bid at the sale or by any mortgagee, judgment creditor, or other lienor acquiring the residential real estate whose rights in and to the residential real estate arose prior to the sale. The subject property is subject to general real estate taxes, special assessments, or special taxes levied against said real estate and is offered for sale without any representation as to quality or quantity of title and without recourse to Plaintiff and in "AS IS" condition. The sale is further subject to confirmation by the court. Upon payment in full of the amount bid, the purchaser will receive a Certificate of Sale that will entitle the purchaser to a deed to the real estate after confirmation of the sale. The property will NOT be open for inspection and plaintiff makes no representation as to the condition of the property. Prospective bidders are admonished to check the court file to verify all information. If this property is a condominium unit, the purchaser of the unit at the foreclosure sale, other than a mortgagee, shall pay the assessments and the legal fees required by The Condominium Property Act, 765 ILCS 605/9(g)(1) and (g)(4). If this property is a condominium unit which is part of a common interest community, the purchaser of the unit at the foreclosure sale other than a mortgagee shall pay the assessments required by The Condominium Property Act, 765 ILCS 605/18.5(g-1). IF YOU ARE THE MORTGAGOR (HOMEOWNER), YOU HAVE THE RIGHT TO REMAIN IN POSSESSION FOR 30 DAYS AFTER ENTRY OF AN ORDER OF POSSESSION, IN ACCORDANCE WITH SECTION 15-1701(C) OF THE ILLINOIS MORTGAGE FORECLOSURE LAW. You will need a photo identification issued by a government agency (driver's license, passport, etc.) in order to gain entry into our building and the foreclosure sale room in Cook County and the same identification for sales held at other county venues where The Judicial Sales Corporation conducts foreclosure sales. For information, contact Plaintiff's Counsel, Nathan B. Grzegorek, POLSINELLI PC, 150 N. RIVERSIDE PLAZA, SUITE 3000, Chicago, IL, 60606; (312) 8191900. Please refer to file number 113073-683206 . 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. Nathan B. Grzegorek POLSINELLI PC 150 N. RIVERSIDE PLAZA, SUITE 3000 Chicago IL, 60606 312-819-1900 E-Mail: ngrzegorek@polsinelli.com Attorney File No. 113073-683206 Attorney Code. 47375 Case Number: 21CH03916 TJSC#: 42-1018 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. _______________________________________

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