Chicago Weekend Citizen 5-15-2024

SCHOOL OF THE ART INSTITUTE OF CHICAGO

AT HOMAN SQUARE ENGAGES COMMUNITY IN ARTS AND CULTURE

For about a decade the School of the Art Institute of Chicago (SAIC) has had a presence in the North Lawndale community. With the School of the Art Institute of Chicago at Homan Square, it has been able to engage the community in projects that bring the community and the school together.

Students

ILLINOIS STATE POLICE WARNS OF PHONE SCAM

SPRINGFIELD – The Illinois State Police (ISP) is warning the public of a phone scam. ISP has received several phone calls from individuals reporting a person claiming to be an ISP investigator telling them their identity has been stolen. This is a scam. ISP special agents will not make cold calls requesting personal or financial information, or ask you to confirm personal or financial information.

If you receive a phone call from someone claiming to be an ISP investigator, ask for the caller’s name, badge number, and phone number, and then hang up. Never provide or confirm personal or financial information over the phone to an unknown caller. You can verify if a caller is an ISP special agent by contacting one of the seven investigative regions throughout the state, which can be found at https://isp. illinois.gov/CriminalInvestigations/Zones.

If you have provided personal or financial information to a caller, or think someone may have stolen your identifying information, ISP recommends contacting each of the three credit bureaus to put a free security freeze on your credit. This will prevent someone from opening credit in your name. https://www.equifax.com/personal/credit-reportservices/credit-freeze/ https://www.experian.com/freeze/center.html https://www.transunion.com/credit-freeze

You can also call the Illinois Attorney General’s Identity Theft Hotline at 1-866-999-5630 (7-1-1 relay service). You will be assigned a Consumer Advocate to guide you through the recovery process.

GOV. PRITZKER ANNOUNCES ACTION PLAN TO ADDRESS RACIAL DISPARITIES

IN HOMELESSNESS

CHICAGO — Governor JB Pritzker joined legislators, other State officials, and researchers to release a comprehensive report on Black Homelessness in Illinois. This study, a collaboration with the University of Illinois Chicago’s Institute for Research on Race and Public Policy (IRRPP), offers an unprecedented and groundbreaking analysis of the systemic factors driving the racial disparities in homelessness, and formulates an Action Plan for Racial Equity (APRE).

IRRP began its partnership with the Illinois Office to Prevent and End Homelessness (OPEH) – an initiative of Governor Pritzker’s – in January 2023. OPEH was created in 2021 with a mission to coordinate pathways to permanent housing for Illinoisans facing housing insecurity. OPEH is the headquarters of the State’s “Home Illinois” initiative.

Governor Pritzker has earmarked $250 million in the FY25 budget to support implementation of the plan, which supports the overall efforts of Home Illinois. This a $50 million increase from FY24 funding.

The report underscores that Black Illinoisans are almost eight times more likely to experience homelessness compared to their white counterparts. This issue is exacerbated by significantly higher eviction rates observed in Black communities, which directly contribute to their increased risk of homelessness. The analysis delves into the root causes, including the enduring effects of racial segregation and discriminatory practices, which have historically limited access to affordable and quality housing for Black residents.

The action plan is a multi-faceted approach designed to address key challenges—including increasing investments in affordable and permanent supportive housing, enhancing the safety net with robust support services, and implementing policies aimed at closing the financial stability and mortality gaps that disproportionately affect Black communities.

The report was initiated by the Racial Equity Roundtable on Black Homelessness, with representatives from across the state in housing, community development, community organizing and services. It is the result of extensive consultations with Black leaders, state government, and community members across Illinois, ensuring that the recommendations reflect the needs and aspirations of those most affected by homelessness. This collaborative approach underscores the State’s dedication to inclusivity and community-driven policy.

The full report, titled Black Homelessness in Illinois: Structural Drivers of Inequality, along with detailed recommendations and the APRE, is available for public review on the Illinois Department of Human Services website.

School of the Art Institute of Chicago at Homan Square Engages Community In Arts And Culture

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BY TIA CAROL JONES

Jacqueline Williams, Executive Director of the Office of Engagement at the School of the Art Institute of Chicago (SAIC), said the School of the Art Institute of Chicago at Homan Square was brought to the campus by the School of the Art Institute of Chicago President Emeritus Walter Massey who wanted to find a community that the school could take its classes, students and faculty and have a real impact.

“It is a wonderful community that is growing, and much like many Chicago communities we work in, it is going through a real resurgence,” she said.

The School of the Art Institute of Chicago at Homan Square is located at 906 S. Homan, also known as Nichols Tower, which was the site of the offices for the Sears campus. Students from the School of the Art Institute of Chicago take classes at Homan Square as well as participate in civic engagement projects with the community. There is an artist-in-residence program, as well as youth and adult programming at Homan Square. There is a sneaker lab where high school students learn how to create a sneaker, from design to construction. Previously, there was a denim lab that taught the history of indigo to the construction of denim.

Williams said the School of the Art Institute of Chicago at Homan Square is a conduit to bringing faculty, students, staff and resources to the community to help have an impact on the arts and culture in the North Lawndale Community. One of the projects Williams highlighted is the welding project, which was a partnership between SAIC at Homan Square and Stone Temple Baptist Church. There was a need to beautify the garden adjacent to the church, with flowers and signage and structures. Somehow, a conversation took place about welding and an MFA student was connected with the church. The artist trained members of the community in welding and that new skill had the potential to lead to other opportunities.

“One of the things that we do that I think we do so well, is we connect our students and faculty to the programs and projects in the community,” Williams said. “Welding could lead to welding apprenticeships and welding jobs. Just like photography could lead to photography apprenticeships and ultimately jobs.”

Williams said one of the biggest impacts of the School of the Art Institute of Chicago’s work in Homan Square is to show art is more than painting on a canvas or performing on stage. There are so many facets to working in the arts and the work SAIC is doing showcases those entrepreneurial efforts that come from art.

“It has been a wonderful project of connecting pieces of art, history and knowledge back to North Lawndale and students get to learn from all of this and connect the art to it,” Williams said.

The work that the School of the Art Institute of Chicago does at Homan Square is a collaboration and partnership between the school and organizations that have already been doing work in the community, including Stone Temple Baptist Church, Center for the Open Arts, North Lawndale Community Council. The collaborative relationship between the entities enables the community to provide input about what is needed and what they want in those spaces.

On Monday, April 22nd the School of the Art Institute of Chicago hosted an event to celebrate the partnership with the community and stakeholders at Homan Square. The Community Builders dinner acknowledged all the community organizations the School of the Art Institute of Chicago has worked with throughout the last ten years. Williams said the School of the Art Institute of Chicago is extremely proud of that work it is doing in North Lawndale, are committed to the community and looking forward to doing more.

For more information about the School of the Art Institute of Chicago at Homan Square, visit www.saic.edu/public-programs/homan-square.

Poetry Foundation Launches a Bridge Fund for Small Presses

Chicago, IL – To assist publishers impacted by the abrupt closure of Small Press Distribution (SPD), the Poetry Foundation has established a bridge fund for small presses to help cover unanticipated costs.

Effective immediately, nonprofit presses that publish poetry and have been impacted by the SPD closure, including those that are fiscally sponsored, can request a bridge grant from the Poetry Foundation.

The Fund

The Poetry Foundation’s Board of Trustees committed an additional $150,000 to its grantmaking budget to establish the bridge fund. The fund will operate through an open request process, providing grants that range up to $7,500 per press to cover unanticipated expenses, such as inventory relocation and new distributor setup costs.

The Poetry Foundation is accepting requests on a rolling basis until September 1, 2024, or until the fund has been exhausted, whichever occurs first.

Nonprofit presses that publish poetry and have been impacted by SPD’s closure can request funds directly via the Foundation’s application portal. For more information, the Community of Literary Magazines and Presses (CLMP) will be holding a free information session on the fund with Poetry Foundation staff on Tuesday, April 30, at 3:00 PM (CT). The session will be recorded for those who are unable to attend. Register here.

Further Supports

All nonprofit presses are also eligible to apply to the Poetry Foundation’s upcoming regular fall grant cycle, which will open applications on June 1. The Poetry Foundation has expedited $245,000 in grants to nonprofit small presses impacted by the SPD closure that had applied as part of its spring grants cycle.

In addition, the Foundation’s library staff is working to acquire titles at risk of becoming out-of-print as a result of the SPD dissolution.

Other funders interested in providing small presses with

School of the Art Institute of Chicago at Homan Square has partnerships with organizations that are embedded in the North Lawndale community. PHOTO PROVIDED BY MYWHY AGENCY/@SAICATHOMANSQUARE.

Heaven Has a Heart Creates a Brighter Future for the Next Generation

Evanston, Ill. -- Heaven Has a Heart is thrilled to announce its Enchanting Futures Gala, slated to grace the historic Charles Gates Dawes House on Saturday, June 1st, 2024, from 6:00 PM to 11:00 PM. Located at 225 Greenwood St, Evanston, IL 60201, this Bridgerton-themed fundraiser promises an evening of elegance and charm, supporting a noble cause to provide a lifeline of opportunity for disadvantaged youth in Zimbabwe.

Founded in 2020], Heaven Has a Heart is a 501(c)(3) social welfare organization committed to providing access to quality education and resources to children in need. With a mission to improve educational

outcomes in vulnerable communities, Heaven Has a Heart is dedicated to expanding its impact and supporting even more needy children.

The focal point of this fundraiser is the renovation of Angels Preschool in Zimbabwe, which aims to provide free education to 60 students between the ages of 4 and 6. This initiative ensures that every child has access to the tools they need to succeed. Additionally, the gala will launch an initiative to build a chicken coop, generating revenue to sustain the school and pay for teacher salaries, ensuring long-term sustainability.

infrastructure, including refurbishing classrooms and creating conducive learning environments.

Teacher Training and Support: Funds will enhance the quality of education through teacher training programs.

Nutrition and Health Programs: Support will help provide school meals and health check-ups, ensuring students are ready to learn.

Long-Term Community Impact: The initiative aims to uplift communities and contribute to long-term socio-economic development by improving educational opportunities.

Understanding Alzheimer’s, the 10 Warning Signs of Alzheimer’s and the path to early detection

As we age, it’s common to experience occasional memory lapses or moments of forgetfulness. However, when memory loss starts to interfere with daily life and tasks, it could be indicative of a more serious condition like Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia. Understanding the warning signs and seeking early detection are crucial steps in managing these conditions effectively.

Inspired by her upbringing in the Cabrini-Green projects, founder Christina Atkins is deeply committed to making a difference in underserved communities. Her transformative journey to Africa in 2021, where she worked alongside community members in Cape Town, Zimbabwe, Kenya, and Tanzania, led her to Angels Preschool—a beacon of hope in a community where education was a luxury. Moved by the plight of the children and families, Atkins made a personal commitment to support their journey, leading to the creation of Heaven Has a Heart.

Today, Heaven Has a Heart is dedicated to expanding its impact and ensuring every child has the opportunity to reach their full potential, regardless of their circumstances.

The fundraiser will provide essential support in various areas:

Heaven Has a Heart extends a heartfelt invitation to supporters, philanthropists, and advocates who share the passion for creating a brighter future for the next generation. For more information on Heaven Has a Heart and to contribute to the Enchanting Futures Gala, please visit Harmony Of Hearts: Bridgerton Gala.

Connect with Heaven Has a Heart: heavenhasaheart.org

FB: Heaven Has a Heart IG: heavehasaheart

YouTube: Heaven Has a Heart https://youtu.be/RITwpTQuHBI?si=pl7KOBG2ceUJHgpl https://youtu.be/10PxIVlaf6Q?si=ns2qk7KxVSQX9hp3 https://youtu.be/RITwpTQuHBI

On Saturday, May 18, 2024, from 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM CDT, we invite you to join us at the King Library, located at 3436 S King Dr, Chicago, IL 60616, for an informative session on Alzheimer’s awareness and early detection. This event aims to shed light on common signs of Alzheimer’s, approaches to discussing memory concerns with loved ones, the significance of early diagnosis, available tests and assessments, and valuable resources provided by the Alzheimer’s Association.

Here are 10 warning signs of Alzheimer’s:

1) Memory Loss Disrupting Daily Life: Forgetting recently learned information, important dates, or events and relying on memory aids or loved ones for things they used to handle independently.

2) Challenges in Problem-Solving or Planning: Difficulty concentrating, following a familiar recipe, or managing monthly bills.

3) Difficulty Completing Familiar Tasks: Struggling to drive to a familiar location, manage a budget, or remember the rules of a favorite game.

4) Confusion with Time or Place: Losing track of dates, seasons, or the passage of time.

5) Trouble Understanding Visual Images and Spatial Relationships: Difficulty reading, judging distance, or determining color or contrast.

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SOUTH END

Washington Heights,Roseland,Rosemoor, Englewood,West Englewood, Auburn-Gresham, Morgan Park, Maple Park, Mt. Vernon, Fernwood, Bellevue, Beverly, Pullman, West Pullman, West Pullman,Riverdale, Jeffrey Manor and Hegewisch.

SOUTH SUBURBAN

Serves communities in Harvey, Markham, Phoenix, Robbins, Dixmoor, Calumet Park, Blue Island,SouthHolland,and Dolton. Shopping- their favorite pastime!

HYDE PARK

Lake Meadows, Oakland, Prairie Shores,Douglas, Grand Boulevard, Kenwood, Woodland,South Shore and Hyde Park.

CHICAGO WEEKEND

Chicago Westside Communities, Austin and Garfield Park

SUBURBAN TIMES WEEKLY

BloomTownship, Chicago Heights, Flossmoor,FordHeights, Glenwood, Homewood, Lansing ,Lynwood, Olympia Fileds, Park Forest,Sauk Village,South Chicago and Steger

Citizen Newspaper Group Inc.,

Educational Resources: Essential materials will be purchased to ensure students have access to quality learning tools.

Tuition Support: Sponsorships will cover tuition fees, opening doors to continuous education for students facing financial barriers.

Infrastructure Development: Proceeds will enhance educational

Heaven Has a Heart aims to improve children’s educational outcomes in vulnerable domestic and international communities. We are a social welfare organization that values access and opportunity. Their volunteer service, youth development, and community-centered programs aim to impact the lives of children and families positively. They believe that education is a key factor in breaking the cycle of poverty and improving prospects.

Poetry Foundation...

funding are encouraged to contribute directly to impacted publishers. Grantmaking at the Poetry Foundation

Established in 2022 when the Poetry Foundation changed from an operating to a non-operating foundation, grantmaking supports nonprofit organizations with a core commitment to poetry and the literary arts. Since 2022, the Foundation has awarded more than $6.3 million in grants to US-based nonprofit organizations, which includes presses and publications. The grants

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program operates on the principles of trust-based philanthropy: open and accessible, transparent, accountable, and relationship-based. For more information about the grants program, including eligibility, please review the FAQ.

The Poetry Foundation recognizes the power of words to transform lives. We work to amplify poetry and celebrate poets by fostering spaces for all to create, experience, and share poetry. Follow the Poetry Foundation on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter, and Poetry at @ PoetryMagazine.

6) New Problems with Words in Speaking or Writing: Struggling to follow or join a conversation, repeating oneself, or calling things by the wrong name.

7) Misplacing Items and Unable to Retrace Steps: Putting things in unusual places, losing things, and being unable to retrace steps to find them.

8) Decreased or Poor Judgment: Making poor decisions in everyday situations, such as giving large amounts of money to telemarketers.

9) Withdrawal from Work or Social Activities: Losing interest in hobbies, social activities, work projects, or sports.

10) Changes in Mood and Personality: Becoming confused, suspicious, depressed, fearful, or anxious.

Recognizing these signs early can lead to a timely diagnosis, allowing individuals and their families to access appropriate care and support services. At the event, attendees will also learn about the importance of discussing memory concerns with healthcare providers and the various tests and assessments used in the diagnostic process.

We encourage everyone to join us for this discussion. A light lunch will be provided, and together, we can increase awareness, understanding, and support for those affected by Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias. Remember, early detection can make a significant difference in managing the condition and improving the quality of life for both patients and their caregivers.

Contact: Lionell Martin, Public Relations Manager, Alzheimer’s Association, lmartin@alz.org, 773.593. 4211

About the Alzheimer’s Association®: The Alzheimer’s Association is the leading voluntary health organization in Alzheimer’s care, support and research. Our mission is to eliminate Alzheimer’s disease through the advancement of research; to provide and enhance care and support for all affected; and to reduce the risk of dementia through the promotion of brain health. Our vision is a world without Alzheimer’s®. Visit alz.org or call 800.272-3900.

BURRELL COMMUNICATIONS GROUP announces agency restructuring

CHICAGO, PRNewswire -- Burrell Communications Group, one of the world’s most highly regarded Black-owned advertising agencies, has announced the appointment and promotion of several senior-level executives to complete its long anticipated restructuring, and its growing leadership roster. The group will work together to seamlessly create centers of brilliance around core disciplines and improve agency operations, while strategically guiding Burrell’s evolution as it moves confidently through its first year with CEO Tara DeVeaux at the helm.

Committed to a spirit of boundless creativity and strategic and executional rigor that drives current client business and new business success, the Burrell senior executive team will work together to enhance overall employee performance, share and integrate best practices among client teams, maximize cross-departmental collaboration and identify ongoing staff training and development opportunities.

Burrell’s department leads include: Leslie Alexander, Director of Project Management; Vicki Bolton, Senior Vice President and Head of Account Management; Stephen French, Head of Strategy; Donna Hodge, Head of Media Services; Mike Mitchell, Chief Financial Officer; Tuwisha

“I am truly excited and inspired by these individuals and their strong track-records of career success and accomplishment,” states DeVeaux. “The Burrell culture has always been rooted in its people, and in carefully building the new leadership team, I purposefully selected executives who are the absolute best in their respective areas of focus, who always play to win, and are energized by the challenge of leading a legacy agency into its prosperous next chapter. Our entire staff, along with our clients, are thrilled by the selection of this dream team.”

Burrell Communications Group was founded in 1971 by renowned ad man Tom Burrell, who led the company for 33 years. Today, Burrell Communications Group is the largest U.S. Black-owned agency specializing in understanding and speaking to today’s market, one that is more diverse and more multicultural than ever before in our country’s history. The agency boasts a roster of premiere, bluechip clients that lead in their respective categories, including McDonald’s, Toyota, Comcast, Fidelity, Coca-Cola, Unilever and the American Red Cross. For more information, visit burrell.com.

Inclusive Workforce Pathways Emerge as the Cornerstone for Corporate Resilience

WASHING-

TON, PRNewswire

-- Tapestry Networks’ Inclusion, Diversity, and Equity in Action (IDEA) initiative, in partnership with Spelman College, a global leader in the education of women of African descent, will host Reimagining the Future of Talent, a dialogue on the convergence of talent, technology, corporate culture, and workforce equity as mobilizers of business strategy.

Given profound differences between Fortune 100 directors and students entering the workforce, and rapidly changing employer-employee relationships, this forum arrives at a critical juncture as boards seek to respond to global forces shaping the future of work, and to create inclusive talent pathways in their companies.

Spelman College President Helene Gayle said: “We are honored to have this forum that not only exposes board directors to the talent at Spelman that is reflective of talent of other HBCUs but also helps them to understand the expectations of the workforce of tomorrow.”

“What a privilege it would be to sit on the hallowed ground of a historically Black college, to hear

from people to walk in this life, and understand the possibilities,” said one director. “I would like to hear from students, that’s what makes this so distinctive for me, I want to learn what areas of progress they want to see – in leadership, in recruitment, in access, in culture. I want to learn how we can help them launch.”

For large organizations and their boards, talent strategy is more pressing than ever, especially with shifting employee expectations, the growing impact of AI, and the digital economy transforming talent access. According to a recent Korn Ferry study on the future of work, almost half of professionals now think about careers in terms of months rather than years, and over 80% of employees would leave their job for one that offered a higher salary or better benefits. With average CEO tenure declining to less than five years, as cited by Equilar, a powerful strategy for growing leaders is a business imperative.

Board leadership is essential to implementing talent strategies that build culture, retain talent and drive innovation. “Talent can make or break a company, especially in uncertain times,” said Dr. Marsha H. Ershaghi, Managing Director, Tapestry Networks.

“Companies want talent strategies that are inclusive and sustainable. Directors want to push the pace of progress and want to get to know the priorities of the newest generations in the workforce.” A board member said, “There’s noise about the global talent disruption, and diversity, equity, inclusion have become politicized. But the needle isn’t moving, and directors aren’t putting it into the business strategy.”

Participants in the forum include directors, executives, and leaders from Accenture, AIG, Boeing, Booz Allen Hamilton, Boston Scientific, Bristol-Myers Squibb, Brown Pandemic Center, CDW, Cigna, Cintas, The Coca-Cola Company, Dexcom, Digimarc, Element Fleet Management, Kohls, LHH Recruitment Solutions, Newman’s Own, Novartis, Perrigo, Salesforce, Viad Corp, Walt Disney, Warner Brothers Discovery, WittKieffer, Zurich Insurance Group, and other leading organizations.

Reimagining the Future of Talent will take place September 19, 2024, on Spelman College’s Atlanta campus.

Tapestry Networks brings world-class leaders together to tackle complex challenges and promote positive change through the power of connected thinking. Learn more at: https://www.tapestrynetworks.com/.

Spelman College, a historically Black college and a global leader in the education of women of African descent, is dedicated to academic excellence in the liberal arts and sciences and the intellectual, creative, ethical and leadership development of its students. Learn more at https://www.spelman.edu/.

Spelman College

Tapestry Networks

Rogers, Vice President and Director of Brand Development; Khari Streeter, Chief Creative Officer and Ailine Tan, Senior Vice President of Operations.

The new Burrell Communications Group senior leadership team. Pictured are (front row, from left) Tuwisha Rogers, CEO Tara DeVeaux, Ailine Tan and Vicki Bolton, along with (back row) Donna Hodge, Mike Mitchell, Khari Streeter, Stephen French and Leslie Alexander PHOTO CREDIT: © 2024, BY DIMITRE PHOTOGRAPHY, COURTESY BURRELL COMMUNICATIONS GROUP

Jared Launches Exclusive Le Vian Tramonto

D’Oro™ Collection

AKRON, Ohio, PRNewswire -- Jared The Galleria Of Jewelry, a leader in accessible luxury and the premium luxury banner within Signet Jewelers, has partnered with Le Vian, a leading luxury jewelry brand, to launch their exquisite Tramonto D’Oro Collection, available exclusively at all Jared stores nationwide and Jared.com.

The Le Vian Tramonto D’Oro™ Collectionis currently available, with prices ranging from $1,600 to $5,000. Crafted in luminous 14K gold, each piece in this collection is a testament to the surreal allure of the sunset. Natural brilliant-cut diamonds, reminiscent of twinkling stars, are delicately set into gold, creating a mesmerizing celestial effect that mirrors the intricate brilliance of the heavens.

Jared®, the leading off-mall destination specialty retail jewelry chain in the U.S., is operated by Signet Jewelers Limited, the world’s largest retailer of diamond jewelry. For additional information on Jared® Jewelry visit Jared.com, and like us on Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, Pinterest and Instagram.

“Amidst the excitement of Mother’s Day shopping, we’re thrilled to unveil our latest collection with Le Vian—a nod to timeless beauty and heartfelt sentiment,” says Claudia Cividino, President of Jared. “With our customers seeking meaningful, personalized gifts, Jared stands ready to help you find that perfect expression of love, making the Tramonto D’Oro Collection an ideal gift.”

Translated in Italian as “Sunset of Gold,” the Le Vian Tramonto D’Oro™ Collection is inspired by that magical moment when the sky is painted a golden hue as the sun sets into the Tyrrhenian Sea. The new product offerings feature a range of 11 styles including earrings, bangles, necklaces and pendants, and rings.

“Le Vian’s Tramonto D’Oro™ Collection honors those who cherish the day’s fleeting beauty while embracing the tantalizing twilight and the potential it holds,” says Eddie LeVian, CEO of Le Vian. “It encapsulates the warmth and nostalgia of the golden hour, allowing you to celebrate the special person in your life with lasting elegance.”

To learn more about the Le Vian Tramonto D’Oro™ Collection, visit www.jared.com/tramonto-doro.

Signet Jewelers Limited is the world’s largest retailer of diamond jewelry. As a purpose-driven and sustainability-focused company, Signet is a participant in the United Nations Global Compact and adheres to its principles-based approach to responsible business. Signet is a Great Place to Work –Certified™ company. Signet operates approximately 2,700 stores primarily under the name brands of KAY Jewelers, Zales, Jared, Banter by Piercing Pagoda, Diamonds Direct, Blue Nile, JamesAllen.com, Peoples, H. Samuel, Ernest Jones, and the jewelry subscription service, Rocksbox. Further information on Signet is available at www.signetjewelers. com. See also www.kay.com, www.zales.com, www.jared.com, www.banter.com, www.diamondsdirect.com, www.jamesallen.com, www. bluenile.com, www.peoplesjewellers.com, www. hsamuel.co.uk, www.ernestjones.co.uk, and www.rocksbox.com.

Le Vian is a family-owned, New York-headquartered jewelry company which can trace its roots to jewelers in the 15th century and is today regularly worn by Hollywood celebrities. Le Vian is at the forefront of creating the most exquisite natural fancy color diamond jewels in a kaleidoscope of colors including pink, yellow - and the exclusive Chocolate Diamonds®, which have in the last 20 years attracted over 5 million collectors. The fine jewelry house of Le Vian is the fashion couture fine jeweler of choice, uniting two luxury worlds – glamorous high style fashion trend forecasting and hand-made fine jewelry designs incorporating rare, precious natural diamonds and gemstones.

Marshalls Launches First-Ever “Good Stuff Style Collective” in Partnership with Celebrity Stylists Molly Dickson, Zerina Akers and Enrique Melendez

FRAMINGHAM, Mass., PRNewswire -- Marshalls (NYSE: TJX) today announced the launch of its inaugural team of style experts: Marshalls Good Stuff Style Collective. As some of the industry’s top stylists to the stars, Zerina Akers, Enrique Melendez and Molly Dickson, embark on this partnership to share their fashion expertise and styling advice for shoppers everywhere. Featured in Marshalls Spring/Summer ‘24 trend report, The Edit by Marshalls, the Style Collective is all about highlighting quality, on-trend fashion at every price point and providing a peek behind the curtain on how Marshalls hustles to get the good stuff™ in its over one thousand stores nationwide.

The launch of the Style Collective comes at a time when 80% of people feel it’s hard to find high-quality fashion items on a tight budget, according to a recent survey*, but Marshalls serves as a solution by providing access to quality finds at a great value. Armed with insights directly from Marshalls buyers about their buying process and innate ability to deliver high-quality and on-trend brands and designer names at amazing prices, the Style Collective have helped curate The Edit Shop on Marshalls. com. Much like the brand’s iconic shops like The Designer Shop, and Made in Italy, The Edit Shop is a simplified shopping tool to help shoppers score what’s trending seasonally across fashion and beauty.

“We are always looking to give our consumers access to what they want when they need it most – whether it be great quality fashion for any budget, style inspiration, or the inside scoop on shopping our stores like a pro, plus so much more,” says Sonya Cosentini, Vice President, Brand Marketing, Marshalls. “Enrique, Molly and Zerina are some of the most in-demand and talented fashion stylists in Hollywood, and we are so excited to partner with them to bring their invaluable styling advice to Marshalls customers.”

Shot by renowned photographer/director Emily Soto, and penned by InStyle Fashion Director Kevin Huynh, the Style Collective cover story in The Edit by Marshalls showcases how Marshalls has always been a reliable fashion resource throughout their styling careers.

“My mother worked multiple jobs just to keep us afloat and make sure that I had everything, but also that I wasn’t counted out because of what I did and didn’t have access to,” shared Enrique Melendez, “and by shopping at Marshalls, I was able to have access to brands or premium products that I would see on either television, music videos, or fashion magazines.”

For Molly Dickson, the partnership is a way to let her followers in on her best-kept shopping secrets. “When I moved to New York as a fashion assistant, I would shop at Marshalls, and now, I still find myself shopping at Marshalls. Where else can I get a luxury handbag and a good pair of jeans that are up to my standards in quality with amazing prices?”

As for Zerina Akers, “It’s really fun to be able to partner with Marshalls. Fashion has been gatekept for so long, and it’s shifting into a way where it’s really in the hands of the consumer now.” She continues, “I think the Marshalls shopper is hardworking. They appreciate good quality, they appreciate affordability, and they don’t want to sacrifice that quality for affordability.”

For fashion tips, style inspiration, and more from Marshalls Good Stuff Style Collective, visit Marshalls on Instagram and TikTok at @Marshalls. Visit The Edit Shop online and locate your nearest Marshalls store here for all the good stuff™.

*Marshalls commissioned a survey of 1,000 individuals across the United States about their shopping habits and how they’re finding deals and quality.

Marshalls is one of the nation’s leading off-price family retailers with over 1,100 stores spanning 48 states, D.C., and Puerto Rico. Since opening its first store more than 40 years ago, the Marshalls name has become synonymous with off-price shopping. Marshalls shoppers can find an amazing selection of high-quality, on-trend, brand name and designer merchandise for women, beauty, accessories, footwear, men, kids, and home merchandise - all at amazing prices.

Molly is a Celebrity Stylist to Hollywood’s It Girls. Zerina is an Emmy Award Winning Costume Designer, Celebrity Stylist, Entrepreneur and Philanthropist. Enrique is a Los Angeles-based Celebrity Stylist to the next generation of Hollywood’s Hottest Superstars: Gen Z.

Jared Launches Exclusive Le Vian Tramonto D’Oro™ Collection. PRNewsfoto/Jared.

Chicago’s historic Fine Arts Building hosts free Second Fridays

Artistic tenants showcase their work throughout the building, including artist Cecilia Beaven, Chicago International Puppet Theater Festival, Chicago Opera Theater, the Center for Mad Culture, Exile in Bookville, Alyson Lyon Arts, Oak Street Design, Patrice Olsen Fine Art, Performers Music, and Ann Pickett Studio and Gallery

CHICAGO — On the heels of its 125th anniversary last year, Chicago’s historic Fine Arts Building (410 S. Michigan Avenue) presents a monthly showcase of artists throughout the building with its ongoing Second Fridays open studios events, free and open to the public on the second Friday of each month from 5-9 p.m. Upcoming dates are June 14, July 12, Aug. 9, Sept. 13 and Oct. 11, 2024. For more information, visit fineartsbuilding.com/second-fridays.

The Fine Arts Building is a home for art in all forms. Second Fridays open studios feature artists and creatives across disciplines, from opera and puppetry to visual art, literature, jewelry and design. Additionally, historic exhibits Art Alone Endures and Staging Ground (5th Floor) share stories of the artists and companies that have called the Fine Arts Building home over the past 125 years. Both the building and historic exhibits are open to the public seven days per week—but Second Fridays offer a unique opportunity to experience the artistic vibrancy of the Fine Arts Building and meet the artists and craftspeople who inhabit Chicago’s premier artistic landmark.

A self-guided walking tour of historic sites and artists’ studios throughout the building is available online at fineartsbuilding. com/map, with informational plaques outside notable studios to guide visitors on their journey. Guests will be transported back to a time when notable artists like The Wonderful Wizard of Oz illustrator W. W. Denslow and sculptor Lorado Taft roamed the halls of the Fine Arts Building, and discover why artists from all over the world have made this building their artistic home for over a century.

Regular Second Fridays open studios participants include:

· Artist Cecilia Beaven (Studio 915)

· Chicago International Puppet Theater Festival (Studio 433)

· Chicago Opera Theater (Studio 404)

· The Center for Mad Culture and Press Here Studio (Studio 419)

· Bookstore Exile in Bookville (Studio 210)

· Alyson Lyon Arts (Studio 618)

· Oak Street Design (Studio 636)

· Patrice Olsen Fine Art (Studio 610)

· Performers Music (Studio 904)

· Ann Pickett Studio and Gallery (Studio 601)

· The Second Floor Art Gallery (2nd Floor), curated by Stanley Smith of Oak Street Design

· Original Art Nouveau Murals in the 10th Floor lobby

The Fine Arts Building is a home for art in all forms: from

pioneers like Poetry magazine’s founding publisher Harriet Monroe, architect Frank Lloyd Wright, The Wonderful Wizard of Oz illustrator W. W. Denslow, sculptor Lorado Taft and the Chicago Little Theatre, to the ongoing legacies of painters, musicians, booksellers, puppeteers, dancers, photographers and craftspeople who inhabit the building today, the Fine Arts Building is buzzing

with more than a century of Chicago creativity and innovation. A Chicago Landmark since 1978, the building features original manually-operated elevators, Art Nouveau murals from the late 19th century and the recently renovated Studebaker Theater, one of the city’s oldest and most significant live theatrical venues. For more information, visit fineartsbuilding.com.

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6 CARNEGIE MELLON ALUMNI

Nominated for 11 Tony Awards

PITTSBURGH, PRNewswire -- The spotlight will shine brightly on several Carnegie Mellon University alumni at the Lincoln Center for the Performing Arts in New York at The 77th Annual Tony Awards® on Sunday, June 16.

Six Carnegie Mellon University alumni were nominated for 11 Tony Awards. This year marks 15 consecutive years in which Carnegie Mellon alumni have earned Tony nominations.

2024 Carnegie Mellon University Tony Awards Nominees

Actor Will Brill, 2009 School of Drama alumnus, was nominated for his role as Reg in “Stereophonic” (Best Featured Actor in a Play).

Producer Jamie deRoy, 1967 Carnegie Mellon alumna, received a total of five nominations in two categories: “Cabaret,” “Gutenberg! The Musical!” “Merrily We Roll Along,” “The Who’s Tommy” (Best Revival of a Musical) and “Stereophonic” (Best Play).

Playwright Joshua Harmon, 2010 School of Drama alumnus, was nominated for “Prayer for the French Republic” (Best Play).

Actor and Producer Leslie Odom, Jr., 2003 School of Drama alumnus, was nominated for his role as Purlie Victorious Judson and his work as a producer on “Purlie Victorious: A Non-Confederate Romp Through the Cotton Patch” (Best Revival of a Play).

Actress Sarah Pidgeon, 2018 School of Drama alumna, was nominated for her role as Diana in “Stereophonic” (Best Performance by an Actress in a Featured Role).

Director Leigh Silverman, 1996 School of Drama alumna, was nominated for “Suffs” (Best Director).

“Carnegie Mellon University congratulates all of the 2024 Tony Award nominees, with a special nod to our Tartans,” said CMU President Farnam Jahanian. “Our community takes immense pride in the creativity and unwavering commitment to excellence demonstrated by our accomplished alumni. We eagerly await the momentous evening for theater in June and look forward to celebrating their

achievements.”

Carnegie Mellon alumni have won 60 Tony Awards to date. CMU’s School of Drama is the first degree-granting drama program in the United States and celebrates its 110th anniversary in 2024.

Academy Award winner and Tony Award nominee Ariana DeBose returns to host The 77th Annual Tony Award for the third time, from the David H. Koch Theater at Lincoln Center for the Performing Arts in New York City on Sunday, June 16 (8:00-11:00 PM, LIVE ET/5:00-8:00 PM, LIVE PT) on the CBS Television Network, and streaming on Paramount+ in the U.S. (live and on-demand for Paramount+ with SHOWTIME subscribers, or on-demand for Paramount+ Essential subscribers the day after the special airs). DeBose will also serve as producer and choreograph the opening number for this year’s show. DeBose hosted the 76th and 75th Annual Tony Awards, the former for which

she earned an Emmy Award nomination for Outstanding Variety Special.

The 77th Tonys celebration will recognize all the award categories and honor the incredible artistry of the 2023-24 season. The Tony Awards, which honor theater professionals for distinguished achievement on Broadway, is presented by the American Theatre Wing and The Broadway League and has been broadcast on CBS since 1978.

Teachers Take Center Stage

During the June 16 ceremony, CMU and The Tony Awards will present the 2024 Excellence in Theatre Education Award. One of theater’s unsung heroes — a performing arts teacher from somewhere in the U.S. — will be celebrated with all of the evening’s industry stars.

In partnership with the American Theatre Wing and The Broadway League, CMU and the Tonys annually recognize an exemplary K-12 theater teacher selected from a nationwide search. The Excellence in Theatre Education Award winner’s work has demonstrated a monumental impact on the lives of students while embodying the highest standards of the profession.

Carnegie Mellon is the exclusive higher education partner of The Tony Awards. The annual Excellence in Theatre Education Award was co-created by the Tonys and CMU and has been presented since 2015.

The winner of the 2024 Excellence in Theatre Education Award will be announced later this spring, ahead of the 77th Annual Tony Awards.

For more information about CMU and The Tony Awards, visit cmu.edu.

Carnegie Mellon, cmu.edu, is a private, internationally ranked research university with acclaimed programs spanning the sciences, engineering, technology, business, public policy, humanities and the arts. Our diverse community of scholars, researchers, creators and innovators is driven to make real-world impacts that benefit people across the globe. With an unconventional, interdisciplinary and entrepreneurial approach, we do the work that matters.

Great-granddaughter of Booker T. Washington Releases Latest Book

CLAYTON, N.C., PRNewswire -- Dr. Sarah Washington O’Neal Rush, great-granddaughter of Booker T. Washington, releases her fourth book, “Blueprint to Excellence: Being, Growing, Leading, Soaring” (BTE). She states, “I strive to follow in my great-grandfather’s footsteps by accomplishing just a fraction of what he was able to achieve in his brief lifetime.” She believes the privilege of being born into this lineage comes with an obligation to continue his legacy of uplifting others. She explains, “Since I first learned about the depth of his work, which unfortunately didn’t happen until I was a young adult, I have been on a mission to keep his legacy alive and his name honored. I’ve also made it my life’s purpose to encourage as many as I can to be, to grow, to rise, and to soar.”

The book was created to enhance the future of individuals, groups, and especially rising and aspiring leaders. It is made up of sixteen success principles grounded in lessons from Dr. Rush’s professional training in education, leadership, and mental health. The book is rooted in her great-grandfather’s evidence based “head, hand, and heart” teachings. The same philosophy that he instilled in his students at Tuskegee Institute, today known as Tuskegee University.

Booker T. Washington once said, “A man’s position in life is not measured by the heights which he has attained, but by the depths from which he has come.” It was in that spirit that he led thousands of former slaves and their descendants out of poverty. In the book, Christian Business Legends, Lessons from History, they cited that “in 1905, Tuskegee turned out more self-made millionaires than

Former slave, turned famous educator and founder of Tuskegee Institute, today known as Tuskegee University. PRNEWSFOTO.

Yale, Harvard, and Princeton universities combined.” Dr. Rush attributes that success to three things: Washington’s relentless commitment to improving the lives of former slaves in the South in the face of unimaginable difficulties; his unyielding belief in their strength and potential; and his keen ability to sustain the school by forging strong relationships across socioeconomic and ethnic boundaries.

Dr. Rush draws from her expertise in education,

leadership, and mental health—as well as from the wisdom of her great-grandfather, Booker T. Washington—to meticulously craft a comprehensive guide to personal and professional development. With an integration of strength-based, solution-focused, and cognitive-behavioral theories, the book is divided into four powerfully immersive quadrants—Being, Growing, Leading, Soaring. Each quadrant takes the reader through four of the sixteen fundamental principles, interwoven with thought-provoking exercises, discussions, and assignments. All aimed at fostering a holistic approach to growing in excellence. It includes lessons in character building, critical thinking, effective writing, goal setting, and much more.

BTE is a practical, easy-to-read workbook. It is a transformative guide, designed for individuals, groups, and especially rising and aspiring leaders, and/or for those who train or work with them—from older, mature teens, to senior adults. The online course will be available this fall.

Dr. Rush is a national speaker, author, and educator. Her previous books include, “Rising Up from the Blood: A Legacy Reclaimed, A Bridge Forward” and “Timeless Treasures: Reflections of God’s Word in the Wisdom of Booker T. Washington,” cowritten with her cousin, Gloria Jackson. She is a featured writer of empowerment material, and has appeared in print, on television, radio, in documentaries, and on podcasts highlighting her work and the achievements of her esteemed great-grandfather. To learn more, visit www.btwexcellence.com. The workbook is available now on Amazon.com.

The Blueprint to Excellence: Being, Growing, Leading, Soaring. PRNEWSFOTO.

Booker T. Washington (1856-1915),

Actor and Producer Leslie Odom, Jr. PRNewsFoto/CARNEGIE MELLON UNIVERSITY

SURGE INSTITUTE ANNOUNCES

Open Applications for the New 2025 Cohorts in Detroit, Philadelphia and Chicago

Applications Open for the Chicago Fellowship and Detroit and Philadelphia Academies

CHICAGO, PRNewswire -- Surge Institute is excited to announce the opening of applications for its new 2025 cohorts in Detroit, Philadelphia and Chicago, with closing dates running from late June to late July. Aspiring education leaders in these cities are invited to join this transformative leadership program dedicated to fostering equity and excellence.

Applications for Surge Academy Detroit (a six-month program) are found at https://surgeinstitute.org/ surge-institute-det-info-form/.

Detroit applications close on July 5.

Applications for Surge Academy Philadelphia (a six-month program) are found at https://surgeinstitute.org/ surge-institute-phl-info/.

ers to have a safe space to learn, grow and connect to create powerful impact.”

“Chicago’s transformation is powered by the Surge Fellowship, emboldening local leaders to spearhead impactful change within our diverse

tics, preparing them to become influential change agents in their communities.

Over the next two months, there will be several opportunities for interested parties to engage with Surge Institute teams, prospective Fellows and partners through a number of in-person and virtual events.

Philadelphia applications close on July 26.

Applications for Surge Fellowship Chicago (a 10-month program) are found at https://surgeinstitute.org/surge-institute-chi-info-form/.

Chicago applications close on June 28.

“Our mission is to illuminate the path for our fellows, guiding them through a journey of self-discovery, professional development and community impact,” said Andrea Black Evans, executive director of Surge Academy in both Detroit and Philadelphia. “Launching new cohorts in Detroit and Philadelphia deepens our commitment to transformative leadership. It’s crucial for Black and Latine education lead-

neighborhoods,” said Ulric Shannon, Surge Fellowship executive director. “Our goal is to develop leaders who are committed to justice and equity in education, leveraging Chicago’s dynamic community spirit.”

The Surge Fellowship and Surge Academy have a proven track record of catalyzing the growth and impact of education leaders committed to the well-being and advancement of children of color. During their fellowships, cohort participants will enhance their executive skills, improve their problem-solving abilities and strengthen their capacity for team building. They will also engage deeply with issues of historical inequity in education and poli-

The Detroit Surge Academy is made possible through collaboration with and support from the Michigan Educator Workforce Initiative and the Skillman Foundation. The Philadelphia Surge Academy is made possible through collaboration with and support from Comcast NBCUniversal and Spring Point Partners. The Chicago Surge Fellowship is made possible through collaboration with and support from a host of Chicago funders, investors and community partners who deeply believe in the genius within the Surge community.

Surge Institute is a national 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that was established with a simple but important mission: to develop and elevate leaders of color who create transformative change for children, families and communities. Founded by Carmita Semaan in 2014, the organization was designed to empower emerging diverse leaders to change the landscape of education by providing them with a unique, authentic leadership development experience. To learn more about the Surge Institute, please visit www.surgeinstitute.org.

EBONY POWER 100 RETURNS

Submissions now open for EBONY’s

LOUISVILLE, Ky., PRNewswire -- For nearly eight decades, EBONY, the iconic and beloved Blackowned media company, has been the leading platform showcasing the excellence and brilliance of Black individuals in America and around the globe. And we are thrilled to announce the return of the EBONY Power 100 list!

The EBONY Power 100 list is not just a recognition, but a celebration of the diverse accomplishments of individuals who have made a significant impact on our culture. From civil rights icons to visionary entrepreneurs, from groundbreaking scientists to influential artists, and many more the list reflects the rich history of individuals who have shaped the cultural landscape and have championed the essence of Black expression on our collective journey. Past honorees such as Quinta Brunson, Usher,

most

prestigious award

and the Honorable Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson continue to leave an indelible mark in their respective fields.

Community Crusaders

Submissions are now open for the 2024 EBONY Power 100 list, including brand new categories spotlighting leaders in sports, and music innovators. The full list of 2024 EBONY Power 100 categories include:

Artists in Residence

Business Disrupters

Entertainment Powerhouses

Generation Next

Influential Creators

Leaders in Sports

Media Mavens

Music Innovators

Stem Trailblazers

To learn more about EBONY Power 100 and to nominate visit https://www.ebony.com/2024-ebony-power-100-nomination-form

All nominations must be submitted by June 7, 2024. Final honorees will be celebrated at the highly anticipated EBONY Power 100 gala in Los Angeles mid-November 2024.

For more than 75 years, EBONY has served as the leading voice of the Black American experience and is the most influential Black-owned media company in the world. Under new ownership and leadership, EBONY has grown into a multi-media entity, covering cultural news, entertainment, and lifestyle with a commitment to Move Black Forward with EBONY, EBONY Studios, and JET. EBONY continues to be the leading authority and anchor for all facets of Black culture, illuminating the Black perspective and serving as the ultimate curator for the past, present, and future of the Black and African American experience.

EBONY

9 Ways to Support Mental Wellness

stages, it can often mimic some symptoms of depression.

(StatePoint) When it comes to overall wellness, focusing on mental health is critical, especially for older adults, according to experts.

“As people age, they may experience stressors such as serious illness, losing close friends and family members, managing life on a fixed income, and coping with concerns about their own mortality. While seniors may show resilience to these dimensions of vitality, when they’re compounded, these losses and stressors can result in a myriad of behavioral health issues, including depression, anxiety, stress, and insomnia,” says Dr. Lindsay Evans-Mitchell, board certified adult psychiatrist and behavioral health medical director for Cigna Healthcare’s Medicare Advantage business.

Dementia, which includes memory loss and language difficulties, is another issue often more pronounced with age, and in earlier

Fortunately, Dr. Evans-Mitchell says making healthy choices can improve your quality of life, including your overall mental well-being, and potentially reduce your risk of both depression and dementia:

Practice good nutrition: There is evidence that plant-based diets are associated with better health, including better emotional health. That’s another reason to add more green, leafy vegetables to your diet.

Exercise: Regular exercise can positively affect cognitive ability. If you have a Medicare Advantage (MA) plan offering access to a fitness program at no extra cost, then make sure to take advantage of it. You can learn about Cigna Healthcare’s MA plans at cignamedicareinformation.com.

Hydrate: Drink plenty of water.

Dehydration can negatively affect cognitive performance. Even mild dehydration can drain energy and cause fatigue.

Enjoy some sunshine: Sunlight provides needed vitamin D. Getting sunshine may increase your serotonin and help you stave off depression caused by Seasonal Affective Disorder, or SAD. Also, according to the Alzheimer’s Association, exposure to vitamin D can lower dementia risk by as much as 40%. Of course, make sure to take proper precautions, such as wearing a hat, using sunscreen, and wearing eye protection that shields against UV light.

Get plenty of rest: Older adults need seven to nine hours of sleep each night, according to the National Institutes of Health. People who get six hours of sleep or less a night are at greater risk of developing dementia later, the organization says. Additionally, poor sleep could be a sign of depression and should be discussed with your doctor.

Stay away from harmful substances: Dealing with behavioral health issues in unhealthy ways, such as abusing prescription or illicit drugs or alcohol, will only worsen the situation. According to the National Institutes for Health, research shows heavy alcohol use can increase the risk of both dementia and depression.

Pick up a hobby: Hobbies like gardening, cooking and solving puzzles can help improve your memory and your physical and mental health.

Be social: Isolation can lead to depression, which only worsened for many during the COVID-19 pandemic. Reach out to friends and family in person, via video chat, or over the telephone.

Find help if you need it: Keep your regular medical appointments, and don’t hesitate to seek additional help from your network, if you need it. This may take the form of a financial advisor, a clergy member, or a mental health professional. Medicare generally covers the cost of behavioral health services, including depression and addiction treatment, as well as talk therapy. Virtual services are often available to those living in rural areas. And if you’re experiencing a crisis that includes suicidal thoughts, call 988 immediately.

“For some older adults, seeking help can be difficult,” says Dr. Evans-Mitchell. “But getting help is a sign of strength, not weakness. There’s no benefit to suffering in silence when help to improve your life is within reach.”

When veterinary care is unavailable or unaffordable, ask for Happy Jack® animal healthcare products for cats, dogs, & horses. At Tractor Supply® (www.happyjackinc.com).

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