Tag Archives: Chicago Business

NPA Names Davis, Jurado as 2022 Winners of Distinguished Awards

CHICAGO, Ill. /ScoopCloud/ -- During its historic twentieth annual conference, the National Postdoctoral Association (NPA) today announced that Geoff Davis, Ph.D., and Kellie Ann Jurado, Ph.D., are the 2022 winners of the organization's two most prestigious awards in the postdoctoral scholar community.

The NPA Distinguished Service Award recognizes the highest appreciation for an individual that has demonstrated a profound, sustained, or leadership contribution to improving the postdoctoral experience. Today, that honor was bestowed on Dr. Geoff Davis, one of the earliest advocates for the NPA.

"It is inspiring to see how much the NPA has accomplished for postdocs," commented Davis. "I am honored to be recognized for the work we did together." Davis is a Staff Data Scientist in the Applied Science group at Google Research, having previously served as a postdoc and later an assistant professor of mathematics at Dartmouth College.

The NPA Gallagher Mentor Award recognizes the very best of mentors across the nation who advocate for postdoctoral scholars, celebrate diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) values, and empower their postdoc scholars to succeed. The NPA is dedicated to both recognizing champions and serving as a model for greater DEI in the postdoctoral community.

Dr. Kellie Ann Jurado was named the 2022 Gallagher Mentor of the Year today in Chicago to a field of applauding researchers. Jurado, a Presidential Assistant Professor in the microbiology department at University of Pennsylvania, completed her postdoctoral training at Yale University and earned her Ph.D. at Harvard University.

"I am just so honored," said Jurado. "The absolute best part of this position is to be able to learn and deliberate with my team. They are the light- I am just grateful that I get to help them shine."

"Drs. Davis and Jurado are exemplars in their field," stated NPA Board chair Stephanie Eberle, M.Ed., who announced today's highly-coveted and respected awards. "Beyond academic contributions, they role model commitment to the holistic development of postdoctoral scholars and the advancement of a culture of belonging in training and beyond. These, our highest NPA awards, honor such dedication."

Individuals and organizations can continue the celebration of Drs. Davis and Jurado by following their work while also seeking opportunities to collaborate with the NPA, which is committed to a course of work that advances the careers of our nation's brightest and most educated scholars.

Learn more: https://www.nationalpostdoc.org/page/2022AC

About the National Postdoctoral Association:

The National Postdoctoral Association (NPA) is a nonprofit, 501(c)(3) charitable and educational association headquartered in Rockville, MD. Founded in 2003, the NPA envisions an inclusive community where all postdocs are empowered, valued, recognized, and supported in their current and future endeavors. The NPA serves the entire postdoctoral community, including its 22,000 individual and 230 organizational members. Learn more: https://www.nationalpostdoc.org/

During its historic twentieth annual conference, the National Postdoctoral Association (NPA) today announced that Geoff Davis, Ph.D., and Kellie Ann Jurado, Ph.D., are the 2022 winners of the organization's two most prestigious awards in the postdoctoral scholar community.

Related link: https://www.nationalpostdoc.org/

Real Estate Technology Firm Swift Homes Partners with WMFS on Marketing Campaign

CHICAGO, Ill. /ScoopCloud/ -- Today, Swift Homes announced a partnership with WMFS 92.9 FM ESPN on a marketing campaign in Memphis, Tennessee to help build awareness of Swift Homes' benefits and seller-friendly offerings that are available to consumers who are looking for real estate advice and services.

"Our partnership with WMFS is important because of the scope and scale they provide," a Swift Homes senior executive said. "As the leader in sports programming throughout the Memphis DMA, their relationship with their audience allows Swift Homes to effectively communicate to prospective home sellers - educating audiences across the country about simplifying their home selling process."

Swift Homes is a technology company specializing in fast and easy home sales without the seller needing to list their property with a realtor. Their innovative platform provides home sellers with a fast cash offer and closing as quickly as thirty days. Additionally, with Swift Homes, sellers pay no traditional broker fees and make no repairs. Swift Homes stands out among its competitors because it operates across the United States, so sellers aren't limited to specific geographies.

Learn more: https://www.selltoswift.com/how-it-works/

In addition, Swift Homes provides special seller-friendly offerings such as allowing sellers to remain in their homes with a rent back program. Even more, Swift Homes will make a purchase even if the home being sold is an investment home with tenants.

The marketing campaign begins in March 2022.

About Swift Homes

Swift Homes is the pre-eminent buyer of homes within the real estate tech space. Their technology has revolutionized and simplified the way to sell your home fast in Memphis by streamlining the process and removing unnecessary fees and time that come from listing a home with a broker. With over 20,000 offers made, Swift Homes is one of the largest technology-based home buyers in the country, and their team has over 20 years of experience purchasing homes. In short, if sellers need to sell fast or for any reason, they can sell to Swift Homes in a few easy steps. Learn more at: https://www.selltoswift.com/

About WMFS 92.9 FM ESPN

WMFS 92.9 FM ESPN carries leading sports content including live broadcasts of the NBA's Memphis Grizzlies, and college sports Tennessee Volunteers. Visit http://www.audacy.com/929espn for more company information.

Today, Swift Homes announced a partnership with WMFS 92.9 FM ESPN on a marketing campaign in Memphis, Tennessee to help build awareness of Swift Homes' benefits and seller-friendly offerings that are available to consumers who are looking for real estate advice and services.

Related link: https://www.selltoswift.com

Real Estate Technology Firm Swift Homes Partners with Cox Media Group on Marketing Campaign

CHICAGO, Ill. /ScoopCloud/ -- Today, Swift Homes announced a partnership with Cox Media Group on a multiplatform marketing campaign in Atlanta to help build awareness of Swift Homes' benefits and seller-friendly offerings that are available to consumers who are looking for real estate advice and services.

"Our partnership with Cox Media Group is important because of the scope and scale they provide," a Swift Homes senior executive said. "As one of the largest audio, video and digital networks, their relationship with their audience allows Swift Homes to effectively communicate to prospective home sellers - educating audiences about simplifying their home selling process."

Swift Homes is a technology company specializing in fast and easy home sales without the seller needing to list their property with a realtor. Their innovative platform provides home sellers with a fast cash offer and closing as quickly as thirty days. Home sellers pay no traditional broker fees, make no repairs, and receive cash as soon as thirty days. Swift Homes stands out among its competitors because it operates across the United States, so sellers aren't limited to specific geographies.

In addition, Swift Homes provides special seller-friendly offerings such as allowing sellers to remain in their homes with a rent back program. Even more, Swift Homes will make a purchase even if the home being sold is an investment home with tenants.

The marketing campaign began earlier this year and currently airs in Atlanta, Georgia.

About Swift Homes

Swift Homes is the pre-eminent buyer of homes within the real estate tech space. Their technology has revolutionized and simplified the way a home is sold by streamlining the process and removing unnecessary fees and time that come from listing a home with a broker. With over 20,000 offers made, Swift Homes is one of the largest technology-based home buyers in the country, and their team has over 20 years of experience purchasing homes. In short, if sellers need to sell fast or for any reason, they can sell to Swift Homes in a few easy steps.

Learn more: https://www.selltoswift.com/

About Cox Media Group

Cox Media Group is the advertising sales division of Cox Communications, the third largest cable entertainment and broadband services provider in the country. Cox serves approximately 6 million residences and businesses, giving Cox Media's customers the opportunity to reach their ideal customer wherever they go.

More information:
Swift Homes
875 N Michigan Ave, Suite 3218
Chicago, IL 60611
(877) 861-2466

Today, Swift Homes announced a partnership with Cox Media Group on a multiplatform marketing campaign in Atlanta to help build awareness of Swift Homes' benefits and seller-friendly offerings that are available to consumers who are looking for real estate advice and services.

Related link: https://www.selltoswift.com

Swift Homes Gives Homeowners More Value for their Home

CHICAGO, Ill. /ScoopCloud/ -- Headquartered in Chicago, Swift Homes has quickly emerged as one of the country's most sought after and successful cash home buyers. Their skilled and knowledgeable personnel help property owners from all walks of life sell houses efficiently for unmatched value. Swift Homes allows customers to sell their homes in as-is condition, and utilizes superior procedures to give them peace of mind and a wonderful experience from start to finish.

With often unreasonable fees, many moving parts, and no guarantees of success, traditional real estate transactions are far from ideal. Swift Homes does things differently, buying single-family houses that are then rented out by families in the area.

Homeowners across Florida, Texas, Kentucky, Illinois, Indiana, South Carolina, Iowa, and elsewhere have discovered the numerous benefits of working with the cash home buyers at Swift Homes. First and foremost, Swift Homes' competitive cash offers are fundamentally sound as they're supported by a robust private equity fund. When transacting with Swift Homes, property owners also avoid needing to put in time and effort for repair work. The company consistently lives up to its name, closing deals in a seamless and expeditious manner.

Having bought 5,000+ homes from customers throughout the United States, Swift Homes has extensive experience working with individuals in a variety of situations. While some seek to sell their homes quickly due to unforeseen circumstances and emergencies, others aim to sell because of job relocation. No matter the reasons involved, Swift Homes' personnel are committed to assisting as best they can. The company greatly enjoys hearing customers tell them that cash received from the deals helped get them back on track financially.

Swift Homes has a signature process that is simple yet highly effective. Once homeowners send over information on their properties, the Swift Homes team supplies clear, personalized proposals with the competitive cash offers included. If the offer is agreeable to the owner, the next step is a convenient home inspection to fully assess the property firsthand. Afterwards, customers can decide on particular closing dates that work best for them. When the process has wrapped up, the happy customers get their cash payments as promised.

Swift Homes is considered an industry leader because they provide exceptional cash offers, superb customer service, and a refined process that moves things along smoothly. The private equity fund means that all cash offers are backed and legitimate. Those that select Swift Homes get peace of mind knowing that they do not need to worry about securing financing. The company also wants to impress upon prospective customers that control of the deal is squarely in their hands. No Swift Homes personnel will ever pressure homeowners to accept offers or move forward if they're not completely comfortable.

Sellers from Texas, Florida, Kentucky, Iowa, Illinois, South Carolina, Indiana, and other states across the nation can speak with a friendly Swift Homes representative by calling (877) 861-2466. Those desiring additional information on the cash home buyers and their process can email hello@SellToSwift.com or visit http://www.selltoswift.com/.

Headquartered in Chicago, Swift Homes has quickly emerged as one of the country's most sought after and successful cash home buyers. Their skilled and knowledgeable personnel help property owners from all walks of life sell houses efficiently for unmatched value. Swift Homes allows customers to sell their homes in as-is condition, and utilizes superior procedures to give them peace of mind and a wonderful experience from start to finish.

Related link: https://www.selltoswift.com

Music Theater Works Presents BILLY ELLIOT: THE MUSICAL

SKOKIE, Ill. /ScoopCloud/ -- Music Theater Works shall present "Billy Elliot: The Musical" at the North Shore Center For The Performing Arts In Skokie (9501 Skokie Blvd, Skokie, IL 60076) from December 23, 2021 through January 2, 2022 as the final production of the 2021 Season.

About The Show

Boasting a Tony Award and an Olivier Award for Best Musical, "Billy Elliot" is based on the 2000 international smash-hit film and features a score by music legend Sir Elton John. "Billy Elliot" is an inspirational story about the power of being true to yourself, the unity of family, and the coming together of a community backgrounded by the UK miners' strike in 1984.

From the bleak, muggy streets of northern England to the bright stage lights of a London stage and a brighter tomorrow, "Billy Elliot" tells the story of a boy's desire to express himself through dance and is the inspirational story about the power of being true to yourself, the unity of family and the coming together of a community during the UK miners' strike in 1984.

Production Details

Who:
* Music Theater Works

What:
* Billy Elliot: The Musical
* Music by Sir Elton John
* Directed by Kyle A. Dougan
* Book and Lyrics by Lee Hall
* Choreography by Clayton Cross
* Music Directed and Conducted by Michael McBride

Cast Members:
* Matt Miles (as Dad)
* Rick Rapp (as George)
* Caron Buinis (as Grandma)
* Lydia Burke (as Dead Mum)
* Brandon Machuad (as Tony)
* Jake Siswick (as Billy Elliot)
* Kai Edgar (as Michael Caffrey)
* Casiena Raether (as Mrs. Wilkinson)
* Jon Parker Jackson (as Mr. Braithwaite)
* Everleigh Murphy (as Debbie Wilkinson)

Creative Team:
* Dramaturg (Nathan Lamp)
* Tech Director (Will Hughes)
* Set Designer (Lauren Nigri)
* Dialect Coach (Kathy Logelin)
* Sound Designer (Eric Backus)
* Choreographer (Clayton Cross)
* Props Designer (Frank Roberts)
* Production Manager (Bob Silton)
* Lighting Designer (Andrew Myers)
* Director Of Marketing (Aaron Ozee)
* Fight Choreographer (Nick Sandys)
* Stage Manager (Sean Michael Mohler)
* Company Manager (Christopher Riley)
* Costume Designer (Darcy Elora Hoefer)
* Assistant Stage Manager (Kelly Jonske)
* Hair And Make-Up Designer (Alice Salazar)
* Producing Artistic Director (Kyle A. Dougan)
* Assistant Choreographer (Ariel Etana Triunfo)
* Music Director And Conductor (Michael McBride)

When:
* Press Performance: Thursday, December 23, 2021 @ 7:30 PM
* Sunday, December 26, 2021 @ 2:00 PM & 6:00 PM
* Wednesday, December 29, 2021 @ 1:00 PM
* Thursday, December 30, 2021 @ 7:30 PM
* Friday, December 31, 2021 @ 8:00 PM
* Saturday, January 1, 2022 @ 2:00 PM & 8:00 PM
* Sunday, January 2, 2022 @ 2:00 PM

Where:
North Shore Center For The Performing Arts In Skokie
9501 Skokie Blvd.
Skokie, IL 60077

Tickets:
Ticket prices range from $41 to $108 and tickets for guests 25 and under are half-price.

Box Office: (847) 673-6300

Website: https://www.musictheaterworks.com/Billy-Elliot/

Run Time:
The approximate run time is 2 hours and 45 minutes, including one 15 minute intermission.

Health Safety:

ALL GUESTS will be required to wear a face mask regardless of vaccination status and to present their photo ID with proof of full vaccination from COVID-19 with an approved vaccine.

Please visit https://www.musictheaterworks.com/health-safety-procedures/ for more information.

Upcoming Shows

Music Theater Works has announced the 2022 Season, opening with Jerry Herman's "LA CAGE AUX FOLLES" (March 10, 2022 - April 3, 2022) starring Ginger Minj from RuPaul's Drag Race, followed by "DISNEY'S THE LITTLE MERMAID" (June 2, 2022 - June 22, 2022), "ZORRO: THE MUSICAL" (August 11, 2022 - August 21, 2022), "CAMELOT" (October 30, 2022 - November 13, 2022), and "IRVING BERLIN'S WHITE CHRISTMAS" (December 15, 2022 - January 1, 2023).

Please visit https://www.musictheaterworks.com/2022-Season/ for more information.

About Music Theater Works

Music Theater Works is a professional non-profit theater company based in Wilmette, Illinois featuring a colorful repertoire including operetta, the Golden Age of Broadway, the Great American Songbook, and modern classics since 1980.

As of 2021, Music Theater Works has become a resident theater company at the North Shore Center For The Performing Arts In Skokie (9501 Skokie Blvd, Skokie, IL 60076).

Music Theater Works shall present "Billy Elliot: The Musical" at the North Shore Center For The Performing Arts In Skokie (9501 Skokie Blvd, Skokie, IL 60076) from December 23, 2021 through January 2, 2022 as the final production of the 2021 Season.

Related link: https://www.musictheaterworks.com/

Music Theater Works Announces 2022 Season

SKOKIE, Ill. /ScoopCloud/ -- Music Theater Works has announced the 2022 Season, opening with Jerry Herman's "LA CAGE AUX FOLLES" (March 10, 2022 - April 3, 2022) starring Joshua Eads Brown (AKA Ginger Minj) from "RuPaul's Drag Race," followed by "DISNEY'S THE LITTLE MERMAID" (June 2, 2022 - June 22, 2022), "ZORRO: THE MUSICAL" (August 11, 2022 - August 21, 2022), "CAMELOT" (October 30, 2022 - November 13, 2022), and "IRVING BERLIN'S WHITE CHRISTMAS" (December 15, 2022 - January 1, 2023).

A word from Producing Artistic Director, Kyle A. Dougan: "Our 2022 season will get us back on track to expanded programming and more challenging artistic endeavors to bring 'Great Music' and 'Great Theater' to our audiences. I look forward to sharing our exciting season with our community."

Music Theater Works Presents "LA CAGE AUX FOLLES"

Music Theater Works will present "La Cage Aux Folles" at the North Shore Center For The Performing Arts In Skokie (9501 Skokie Blvd, Skokie, IL 60076) in the North Theatre from March 10, 2022 through April 3, 2022.

About The Show:

The winner of six Tony Awards including Best Musical, Best Score, Best Book, and recently Best Revival of a Musical, "La Cage Aux Folles" is a night full of belly-laughs! Based on the hit French farce that also inspired Hollywood's The Birdcage, this Broadway smash has a hilarious book by Harvey Fierstein and a score by the king of show tunes, Jerry Herman (Hello, Dolly! and Mame).

We will transform the theater into La Cage's elegant St. Tropez nightclub complete with an onstage bar and surprises lurking at every turn. And when a non-traditional family's future in-laws come for a visit, the truth comes out in the wildest of ways!

Starring RuPaul's Drag Race headliner, Joshua Eads Brown (AKA Ginger Minj), and with costumes by Project Runway designer Justin LeBlanc, this is an event you cannot miss!

Music Theater Works Presents "DISNEY'S THE LITTLE MERMAID"

Music Theater Works will present "Disney's The Little Mermaid" at the North Shore Center For The Performing Arts In Skokie (9501 Skokie Blvd, Skokie, IL 60076) in The North Theatre from June 2, 2022 through June 26, 2022.

About The Show:

Based on one of Hans Christian Andersen's most beloved stories and the classic Disney animated film, "Disney's The Little Mermaid" is a classic and beautiful love story for the entire family. With music by eight-time Academy Award winner Alan Menken, lyrics by Howard Ashman and Glenn Slater, and a compelling book by Doug Wright, this Broadway gem will capture your heart with its irresistible song favorites, including "Under the Sea," "Kiss the Girl" and "Part of Your World."

From the moment you step into the theater, this immersive production will make you feel part of Ariel's world. When she disobeys her father, King Triton, and makes a deal with the evil witch, Ursula, Ariel thinks her dreams have come true. But when the bargain is not what it seems, Ariel needs the help of her colorful friends, Flounder the fish, Scuttle the seagull, and Sebastian the crab to save her true love and restore order under the sea.

Music Theater Works Presents "ZORRO: THE MUSICAL"

Music Theater Works will present "Zorro: The Musical" at the North Shore Center For The Performing Arts In Skokie (9501 Skokie Blvd, Skokie, IL 60076) in The Center Theatre from August 11, 2022 through August 21, 2022.

About The Show:

Brace yourself for extraordinary aerial acrobatics, spectacular sword-fighting and incredible magic in the theater as Music Theater Works tells the tale of the legendary swordsman and defender of justice in "Zorro: The Musical".

Zorro has captured the imagination of millions for over a century, in books, movies and television-now he takes the stage in a thrilling original musical. Don Diego de la Vega, a wealthy caballero, lives a double life as a masked hero entangled in adventure and romance, fighting to protect his people from tyranny, and to win the love of the beautiful Luisa.

In association with Ensemble Español, this regional premiere is an unforgettable and action-packed experience, with dazzling choreography and a captivating Flamenco-based score by the international pop sensations, Gipsy Kings!

Music Theater Works Presents "CAMELOT"

Music Theater Works will present "Camelot" at the North Shore Center For The Performing Arts In Skokie (9501 Skokie Blvd, Skokie, IL 60076) in The North Theatre from October 20, 2022 through November 13, 2022.

About The Show:

Join us as we recount the enduring legend of King Arthur, Guenevere, Lancelot, and the Knights of the Round Table in Lerner and Loewe's "Camelot". Based on T.H. White's novel "The Once and Future King", this Broadway classic is a four-time Tony Award winner packed with chivalry, passion, pageantry and betrayal.

Music Theater Works brings this medieval love triangle to the theater stage with a remarkable cast and beloved score that includes timeless songs such as "If Ever I Would Leave You," "Camelot," "C'est Moi" and "How to Handle a Woman".

Follow along as King Arthur's most trusted knight, Sir Lancelot, falls for the beautiful Queen Guenevere, and together they give in to their passion. Will this betrayal destroy Camelot and all for which it stands? This intimate new production promises to bring "Camelot" to new and thrilling life!

Music Theater Works Presents "IRVING BERLIN'S WHITE CHRISTMAS"

Music Theater Works will present "Irving Berlin's White Christmas" at the North Shore Center For The Performing Arts In Skokie (9501 Skokie Blvd, Skokie, IL 60076) in The Center Theatre from December 15, 2022 through January 1, 2023.

About The Show:

Based on the heartwarming classic film, "Irving Berlin's White Christmas" is a holiday favorite for the whole family. With a sparkling new book by David Ives and Paul Blake, the musical delight features such classic Berlin songs as "Blue Skies," "I Love a Piano," "How Deep is the Ocean," and of course the perennial holiday favorite, "White Christmas."

"Irving Berlin's White Christmas" follows World War II veterans Bob Wallace and Phil Davis, who have a successful song-and-dance act. They follow a duo of beautiful singing sisters en route to a Christmas stage show, and end up at the Vermont inn owned by their former army commander, General Waverly.

When Bob and Phil discover the General's inn has fallen on hard times, they decide to put on a big show to draw in business. But will romance and misunderstandings stop the performance? Join us this holiday season when this classic Christmas story unfolds with unforgettable songs and joyous dance!

TICKET INFORMATION

Ticket prices range from $39 to $106 and tickets for guests 25 and under are half-price.

Box Office: (847) 673-6300

Website: https://www.musictheaterworks.com/2022-Season/

HEALTH AND SAFETY PROCEDURES

ALL GUESTS will be required to wear a face mask regardless of vaccination status and to present their photo ID with proof of full vaccination from COVID-19 with an approved vaccine.

Please visit https://www.musictheaterworks.com/health-safety-procedures/ for more information.

ABOUT MUSIC THEATER WORKS

Music Theater Works is a professional non-profit theater company based in Wilmette, Illinois featuring a colorful repertoire including operetta, the Golden Age of Broadway, the Great American Songbook, and modern classics since 1980.

As of 2021, Music Theater Works has become a resident theater company at the North Shore Center For The Performing Arts In Skokie (9501 Skokie Blvd, Skokie, IL 60076).

VIDEO (YouTube): https://youtu.be/FK8bo4y14C8

Music Theater Works has announced the 2022 Season, opening with Jerry Herman's "LA CAGE AUX FOLLES" (March 10, 2022 - April 3, 2022) starring Joshua Eads Brown (AKA Ginger Minj) from "RuPaul's Drag Race," followed by "DISNEY'S THE LITTLE MERMAID" (June 2, 2022 - June 22, 2022), "ZORRO: THE MUSICAL" (August 11, 2022 - August 21, 2022), "CAMELOT" (October 30, 2022 - November 13, 2022), and "IRVING BERLIN'S WHITE CHRISTMAS" (December 15, 2022 - January 1, 2023).

Related link: https://www.musictheaterworks.com/

Real Estate Technology Firm Swift Homes Partners with Radio One on Marketing Campaign

CHICAGO, Ill. /ScoopCloud/ -- Today, Swift Homes announced a partnership with Radio One on a multiplatform marketing campaign across multiple markets in the United States to help build awareness of Swift Homes' benefits and seller-friendly offerings that are available to consumers who are looking for real estate advice and services.

"Our partnership with Radio One is important because of the scope and scale they provide," a Swift Homes senior executive said. "As the largest radio network serving the urban community, their relationship with their audience allows Swift Homes to effectively communicate to prospective home sellers - educating audiences across the country about simplifying their home selling process."

Swift Homes is a technology company specializing in fast and easy home sales without the seller needing to list their property with a realtor. Their innovative platform provides home sellers with a fast cash offer and closing as quickly as thirty days. Additionally, with Swift Homes, sellers pay no traditional broker fees and make no repairs.

Swift Homes stands out among its competitors because it operates across the United States, so sellers aren't limited to specific geographies. In addition, Swift Homes provides special seller-friendly offerings such as allowing sellers to remain in their homes with a rent back program. Even more, Swift Homes will make a purchase even if the home being sold is an investment home with tenants.

The marketing campaign began earlier this year and currently airs in the following Radio One markets: Atlanta, Cincinnati, Columbus, Indianapolis, Raleigh

About Swift Homes

Swift Homes is the pre-eminent buyer of homes within the real estate tech space. Their technology has revolutionized and simplified the way a home is sold by streamlining the process and removing unnecessary fees and time that come from listing a home with a broker. With over 20,000 offers made, Swift Homes is one of the largest technology-based home buyers in the country, and their team has over 20 years of experience purchasing homes. In short, if sellers need to sell fast or for any reason, they can sell to Swift Homes in a few easy steps. Learn more: https://www.selltoswift.com/

About Radio One

Urban One, Inc. d/b/a Radio One. [Nasdaq: UONEK] is an urban oriented, multi-media company that primarily targets African Americans and urban communities. Radio One is the largest distributor of urban content in the country and has been the leading voice speaking to Black America for over Forty (40) years. Visit https://urban1.com/ for more company information.

Today, Swift Homes announced a partnership with Radio One on a multiplatform marketing campaign across multiple markets in the United States to help build awareness of Swift Homes' benefits and seller-friendly offerings that are available to consumers who are looking for real estate advice and services.

Related link: https://www.selltoswift.com

Eat Your Words 2021: A Fundraising Event for Chicago Youth

CHICAGO, Ill. /ScoopCloud/ -- We are proud to announce 826CHI's biggest fundraising event of the year! Socially conscious Chicagoans, literary enthusiasts, education supporters, and members of the business community will gather at the in Bridgeport for "Eat Your Words 2021."

The goal of the event is to raise enough money to ensure 750 students have equitable access to tuition-free, high-quality arts and literacy education. We believe that leaps in learning can be made through the power of writing and individualized attention to creativity. Every $458 raised allows one student to write their future for the 2021-2022 school year.

Eat Your Words will feature a storytelling mission to help 826CHI students, Chicago's finest cuisine from Chef Kelley Davidson of Betty Lou's, signature cocktails from Ahmed Williams of Swift and Sons, Artwork from Amanda K. Rivera, our 826CHI interactive game designed by sisters Ashlyn & Alicia Sparrow, and a performance Jay Illa, the official DJ of the Chicago Bears!

Enter Eat Your Words as a storyteller and you'll have no trouble blending in with the crowd. This is your mission, please come out to support a great cause and have a blast. More details below!

WHEN: Thursday, October 14, 2021 - 6-7:30 p.m. or 8:30 to 9:30 p.m.

WHERE: Zhou B Art Center - 1029 W 35th ST

QUOTE: "We are excited to be at the forefront of helping student writers capture their voice by helping them with their creative writing skills. The Eat Your Words event bring so much of what we do together into one experience. I am excited about how we "gamified" the event and how falls in line with the 826CHI Mission. This will be the non-profit event of the year! Don't miss it," said Jennifer Steele, Executive Director 826CHI.

NOTE: All agents will be required to wear a mask regardless of vaccination status, all the better to help you remain disguised! This event includes two 90-minute timed entries to ensure all of our agents can complete their missions with the venue at 50% capacity or less. 826CHI will have a Covid Compliance Officer on site to help ensure all safety protocols across the event are met and followed.

ABOUT 826CHI:

826CHI is a nonprofit writing tutoring and publishing center that supports students ages 6-18 in their creative and expository writing, and supports teachers in inspiring their students to write. All students enter 826CHI a storyteller and leave a published author. We prioritize our services for students, families, and communities most impacted by systemic disinvestment in high quality arts and literacy education. Our programs also prioritize students who identify as BIPOC, LGBTQIA+, neurodiverse, and English Language Learners.

Learn more at: https://www.826chi.org/

We are proud to announce 826CHI's biggest fundraising event of the year! Socially conscious Chicagoans, literary enthusiasts, education supporters, and members of the business community will gather in Bridgeport for "Eat Your Words 2021."

Related link: https://www.826chi.org/

Swift Homes Makes It Easy to Sell Your House Fast for Top Value

CHICAGO, Ill. /ScoopCloud/ -- Swift Homes, headquartered in Chicago, is a leading home cash buyer throughout the southern United States. Helping homeowners sell their residential properties quickly for top value. Swift Homes purchases homes in as-is condition, making the process straightforward and efficient while giving our customers peace of mind.

Traditional real estate sales include fees, lacking a proper client experience that is typically inconvenient with no guarantees. This is not the case with Swift Homes. The company primarily buys single-family homes that are then rented out to local families. However, they do consider other property types.

Swift Homes provide top-dollar cash offers, a highly experienced home purchasing company bolstered by a robust private equity fund. It can have the entire transaction completed in as few as ten days. When Alabama, Georgia, and North Carolina residents sell to Swift Homes, they don't need to invest time and money into extensive repairs and modifications. As their name suggests, Swift Homes is dedicated to providing each homeowner with a closing that is both quick and uncomplicated.

Having bought more than 5,000 houses nationwide, Swift Homes personnel have had the opportunity to work with those seeking to expeditiously sell their properties for various reasons, including occupation changes, family emergencies, and other pressing situations. Many customers working with Swift Homes found that the ability to get high value for their houses in a relatively short period was a critical factor in their overall financial well-being.

The standard, time-tested process that Alabama, Georgia, and North Carolina sellers go through with Swift Homes begins with submitting a brief informational form regarding the property itself. Upon receiving and evaluating the form, the team will furnish a personalized proposal with their reliable cash offer. If the seller indicates that the offer is acceptable, Swift Homes will schedule a convenient home inspection to assess its current condition thoroughly. At that point, the deal is finalized, with the seller selecting a closing date that best meets their particular needs. To conclude the process, Swift Homes will dispense the agreed-upon cash payment.

Swift Homes is confident that they are the ideal cash home buyers with their unmatched process and dependable offers. With the backing of the private equity fund, all-cash offers made are trustworthy and transparent. Their customers don't need to worry about conditional financing woes or having the transaction drag on. Swift Homes personnel would also like prospective customers to know that sellers maintain control from beginning to end. While the company only makes offers they genuinely feel are competitive and fair, sellers have every right to decline and will never be pressured to go along with a deal that makes them uncomfortable.

Homeowners in Alabama, Georgia, and North Carolina can speak with a Swift Homes representative by calling (877) 861-2466. To learn more about Swift Homes and their process, please visit http://www.selltoswift.com/ or send an email to hello@SellToSwift.com.

Swift Homes, headquartered in Chicago, is a leading home cash buyer throughout the southern United States. Helping homeowners sell their residential properties quickly for top value. Swift Homes purchases homes in as-is condition, making the process straightforward and efficient while giving our customers peace of mind.

Related link: https://www.selltoswift.com

Facebook-Recognized Entity Girls Who Travel Rebrands, Changes Name To Her Adventures

CHICAGO, Ill. /ScoopCloud/ -- Girls Who Travel, a popular women's travel group with over 81,000 members from over 100 countries, has undergone a rebranding. The popular group will now operate under the name Her Adventures. This change comes after Facebook recently selected the platform for the 2021 Facebook Community Accelerator Program.

Her Adventures developed a prominent reputation long before being recognized by Facebook. The platform is the first travel community for women dedicated to leveraging online resources to make travel accessible to all women regardless of access, ability, or privilege. During the pandemic, Her Adventures was the only digital travel group to launch a massive campaign that provided their global members with a safe way to travel via online experiences. Fueled by Facebook's funding and support, Her Adventures will expand its online services to provide additional travel-based resources and programming throughout the following year.

Being selected by Facebook for this particular program is a testament to this travel group's innovative and far-reaching effect. Arden Austin, the founder of Her Adventures, was selected as one of 131 Facebook Community Accelerator program recipients globally. This cohort was chosen from over 13,000 applicants based on demonstrated impact in the community and ability to scale to other markets.

"This rebrand marks a milestone in our organization to make travel and our community more inclusive. We believe that the future of travel begins here, with our mission of ensuring that everyone can explore the world and, in doing so, can become more empowered, empathetic, and open-minded," shared Arden Austin.

Her Adventures will provide the platform, tools, ideas, and resources to allow women from across the globe to experience travel as more than just an elite activity for those who can afford "passports and plane tickets." This continues the work of Girls Who Travel, which has mounted campaigns including gifts, postcards, language exchange programs, virtual tours to places like Chernobyl and Tokyo, online and in-person meetups, webinars with travel industry experts, a marketplace of travel products made by community members, and other fun avenues to explore, learn, grow and support others.

About Her Adventures

Her Adventures LLC is an international media company seeking to radically redefine travel to be an inclusive, sustainable, and empowering experience. The company strives to achieve this by providing curated content that gives all women the resources they need to explore the world regardless of access, ability, or privilege.

Learn more at: https://heradventures.com/

RELATED LINKS

https://www.facebook.com/community/accelerator/

Girls Who Travel, a popular women's travel group with over 81,000 members from over 100 countries, has undergone a rebranding. The popular group will now operate under the name Her Adventures. This change comes after Facebook recently selected the platform for the 2021 Facebook Community Accelerator Program.

Related link: https://heradventures.com/

Music Theater Works Presents RAGTIME

SKOKIE, Ill. /ScoopCloud/ -- Music Theater Works will present "Ragtime" at the North Shore Center For The Performing Arts In Skokie (9501 Skokie Blvd, Skokie, IL 60076) from October 29, 2021 through November 7, 2021 being the third production of the 2021 Season.

About The Show

Music Theater Works brings this 13-time Tony Award-nominated musical with its rich, award-winning score by Stephen Flaherty and Lynn Ahrens - the lyricist and composer duo behind Once on This Island and Seussical to its stage. "Ragtime," based on the E. L. Doctorow, tells the unforgettable story of an upper-class wife, a determined Jewish immigrant and a young, daring Harlem musician living during the early years of the 20th century.

Showcasing the great struggle that accompanies the American Dream and featuring some of the most well-known figures of the time, Ragtime tells the tale of three different individuals who desire a brighter future but must unite to achieve their goals.

Production Details

WHO:

* Music Theater Works

WHAT:
* "Ragtime"
* Lyrics by Lynn Ahrens
* Book by Terrence McNally
* Music by Stephen Flaherty
* Directed by Stacey Flaster
* Choreography by Ariel Etana Triunfo
* Music Directed and Conducted by Roger Bingaman

CAST MEMBERS:
* Dan Gold (as Tateh)
* Kelly Britt (as Mother)
* Lydia Burke (as Sarah)
* Brian Hupp (as Father)
* Bob Sanders (as Grandfather & Judge)
* Korey White (as Booker T. Washington)
* Curtis Bannister (as Coalhouse Walker Jr.)
* Ryan Dooley (as Mother's Younger Brother)

CREATIVE TEAM:
* Dramaturg (Nathan Lamp)
* Tech Director (Will Hughes)
* Dialect Coach (Kathy Logelin)
* Props Designer (Ellen Markus)
* Sound Designer (Aaron Quick)
* Set Designer (Sotirios Livaditis)
* Production Manager (Bob Silton)
* Lighting Designer (Andrew Myers)
* Fight Choreographer (Nick Sandys)
* Stage Manager (Sean Michael Mohler)
* Costume Designer (Rachel Sypniewski)
* Assistant Stage Manager (Parker Bailey)
* Producing Artistic Director (Kyle A. Dougan)
* Hair And Make-Up Co-Designer (Alice Salazar)
* Hair And Make-Up Co-Designer (Charlene Sellers)

WHEN:
* Group Performance: Thursday, October 28, 2021 @ 1:00 PM
* Press Performance: Friday, October 29, 2021 @ 8:00 PM
* Saturday, October 30, 2021 @ 8:00 PM
* Sunday, October 31, 2021 @ 2:00 PM
* Wednesday, November 3, 2021 @ 1:00 PM
* Friday, November 5, 2021 @ 8:00 PM
* Saturday, November 6, 2021 @ 2:00 PM & 8:00 PM
* Sunday, November 7, 2021 @ 2:00 PM

WHERE:
North Shore Center For The Performing Arts In Skokie

9501 Skokie Blvd., Skokie, IL 60077

TICKETS:

Ticket prices range from $41 to $108 and tickets for guests 25 and under are half-price.

Box Office: (847) 673-6300

Website: https://www.musictheaterworks.com/Ragtime/

RUN TIME:

The approximate run time is 2 hours and 45 minutes, including one 15 minute intermission.

HEALTH SAFETY:

ALL GUESTS will be required to wear a face mask regardless of vaccination status and to present their photo ID with proof of full vaccination from COVID-19 with an approved vaccine.

Please visit https://www.musictheaterworks.com/health-safety-procedures/ for more information.

UPCOMING SHOWS

BILLY ELLIOT THE MUSICAL (Dec 23, 2021 - Jan 2, 2022).

The 2021 season has been proudly sponsored by Joyce Saxon.

ABOUT MUSIC THEATER WORKS

Music Theater Works is a professional non-profit theater company based in Wilmette, Illinois featuring a colorful repertoire including operetta, the Golden Age of Broadway, the Great American Songbook, and modern classics since 1980.

As of 2021, Music Theater Works has become a resident theater company at the North Shore Center For The Performing Arts In Skokie (9501 Skokie Blvd, Skokie, IL 60076).

The mission of Music Theater Works is to produce and present musical theater from a variety of world traditions and to engage the local community through educational and outreach programs.

MEDIA CONTACT
Aaron Ozee
Director of Marketing
Music Theater Works
Phone: (847) 920-5360 ext. 7
Email: aozee@musictheaterworks.org

Music Theater Works will present "Ragtime" at the North Shore Center For The Performing Arts In Skokie (9501 Skokie Blvd, Skokie, IL 60076) from October 29, 2021 through November 7, 2021 being the third production of the 2021 Season.

Related link: https://www.musictheaterworks.com/

Logistical Labs Launches Updated User Interface for LoadDex Product

CHICAGO, Ill. /ScoopCloud/ -- Logistical Labs, creator of innovative technology that takes the complexity out of shipping, announced today the release of their updated user interface for their LoadDex product. The new version will showcase a simpler design and a more user-friendly approach, with the same features as the previous version but now with more functionality including quick access to search history, batch rating, and a much smoother quoting workflow.

"Logistical Labs is so excited to release this new version of LoadDex," said Jonathan Evans, Managing Director of Products and Sales at Logistical Labs. "The new design will allow users to reduce clicks, save time, and utilize better negotiating power, leading to better customer opportunities."

KEY FEATURES INCLUDE:

* Single Search. With a simpler design and a more user-friendly approach, users can enjoy all of the features of the previous version along with even more functionality including quick access to search history, batch rating, and a much smoother quoting workflow.

* Search History. Our users have spoken, and we've listened! You now have access to all of your previous searches so you can see the rate provided at the time of the search. Tired of re-entering the same lane information multiple times? Now you can just find the lane in your search history, click edit, and re-run your search without having to type it all over again.

* Batch Search. Users can now easily batch rate a selection of lanes directly in the page! You'll no longer have to navigate to our import/export page in order to run multiple lanes at once. And don't worry, if it's a large file, it can run in the background while you perform other functions in LoadDex. Once it's completed, you'll get a notification, and you can access the .csv files from the all-new search history panel.

* Send Quote. It now takes only two clicks to send a quote! Just click the send button and press send again in the pop-up box to confirm you're ready to send the quote out.

* Save Quote. It only takes a single click to save a quote with the new quote page. Instead of dealing with a pop-up box with several fields that you may not need, you just click the button and you're done.

* Edit Quote. You are still able to access the fields that were available on the old platform by clicking the edit button. This will take you to a new page with a newly designed form that is much simpler to navigate to the fields you need to fill out or update. Along with the form, you'll have easy access to the originally suggested LoadDex rate that remains fixed on the screen no matter how far you've scrolled down the form.

You can learn more about Logistical Labs' suite of products here - https://www.logisticallabs.com/products/

About Logistical Labs

Logistical Labs creates innovative technology that takes the complexity out of shipping and opens up new possibilities across the supply chain. Logistical Labs' pricing platform, LoadDex, drastically simplifies pricing and carrier selection across all modes. With a single search, users can compare thousands of rates from all types of transportation providers at once. Using LoadDex, users can make better-informed pricing and quoting decisions through data-driven insights and social collaboration. Open API access allows users to easily integrate LoadDex into their existing business applications for improved process efficiency.

For more information, visit https://www.logisticallabs.com/

Logistical Labs, creator of innovative technology that takes the complexity out of shipping, announced today the release of their updated user interface for their LoadDex product. The new version will showcase a simpler design and a more user-friendly approach, with the same features as the previous version but now with more functionality including quick access to search history, batch rating, and a much smoother quoting workflow.

Related link: https://www.logisticallabs.com/

Balodana to compete as a finalist in the 2021 Go Global Awards

CHICAGO, Ill. /ScoopCloud/ -- The International Trade Council announced this week that fashion startup Balodana has been chosen as a finalist for its prestigious 2021 Go Global Awards. This global competition celebrates the companies that are driving the economy forward through their innovations, technologies and strategies. Out of over 4,300 applicant companies from around the world, Balodana has ranked within the top 20 percent and will pitch in front of judges in the Women in Business category.

The Awards bring together hundreds of senior executives from some of the world's most innovative manufacturers, re-manufacturers and exporters, along with representatives from government bodies, trade associations, venture capital firms and financial institutions. The program aims to build a community of manufacturers, exporters and related service providers to support one another, share ideas, create partnerships and build on their existing knowledge and connections.

"As a global marketplace ourselves, Balodana is proud and humbled at the chance to compete against such a diverse array of innovative companies from all over the world," said Dana Todd, CEO of Balodana. "The International Trade Council continues to impress with its focus on global collaboration and growth, and particularly in its support for startups like us who are working at the supply chain level to meet the world's changing needs."

Winners of the Go Global Awards gain access to unique international platforms through the extensive International Trade Council's network of more than 176 countries and over 418 professional organizations worldwide. Finalist pitches will be publicly available during the Go Global Awards Judging Day on Tuesday, Sept. 14, 2021. Interested parties are encouraged to register at https://www.airmeet.com/e/03dd3e60-f8cc-11eb-838b-e568775d064b.

About Balodana LLC

Balodana is the only multi-brand custom clothing marketplace that inspires and perfectly fits women who want to master the art of the first impression. In an era in which consumers expect personalized experiences, tailor-made clothing is not only personal but the most sustainable way to buy new garments today. We curate designers and on-demand custom manufacturers worldwide who specialize in women's made to measure clothing. Customers use their secure measurement profile to shop hundreds of custom style patterns in all price ranges and categories. The company was launched in 2019 serving US markets, with expansion plans to Canada and Europe in 2022.

Learn more at https://www.balodana.com/.

Press Contact:
Nisha Katti, nisha.katti@balodana.com
Ph. +1 312-701-3262

The International Trade Council announced this week that fashion startup Balodana has been chosen as a finalist for its prestigious 2021 Go Global Awards. This global competition celebrates the companies that are driving the economy forward through their innovations, technologies and strategies.

Related link: https://www.balodana.com/

Print’s Not Over – It’s Just Getting a New Lease on Life

CHICAGO, Ill. /ScoopCloud/ -- Is print cool or old school? According to the Productivity Network LLC, a Chicago-based print production company, it's a little of both and that's a good thing. In business for one year, the team at the Productivity Network is positive that print's not just sexy, it's downright hot.

Co-owners, Erika Pflederer and Michael Wade, believe that while digital continues to reign, print is far from over. That's why they've extended their hand to those who want to add or re-introduce print into their mix.

"The past year has taught us many things," Pflederer says. "Among those lessons learned are: anything is possible, people are increasingly growing tech-weary, business models are rapidly changing and more and more consumers crave nostalgia. It's these factors and more that point to a comeback for print. It's time for print to shine again."

In fact, Pflederer and Wade were so confident that they bet their careers on it and launched the Productivity Network in September 2020. To date, it's landed some impressive accounts including a well-known packaged goods company and multiple financial businesses.

The co-owners intentionally designed their business to be virtual which provides them the flexibility to work with anyone, anywhere. And being veterans of the print ad business, they have a wealth of resources at their fingertips.

Its model is low overhead, killer service, attention to detail, top talent and the ability to scale up and down as needed.

"We can quickly pivot to meet demand," she says.

Since launching their business, Pflederer and Wade have worked on a variety of print campaigns ranging from billboards and transit signage to bus wraps and business presentations.

"Of course, we do digital work too. We're not that crazy," Pflederer shares. "It's just that we believe print has to be accessible to those who want it and we really know how to do it. There are not many in-house print production services out there anymore and we serve to fill that niche. We work directly with brands too."

Pflederer, who grew up working in her dad's print shop, makes it a point to ask people to think about print.

"Just look around. Go into a shop. Get on a train. Drive on the interstate. Open your mail. Dig into that swag bag. We're surrounded by print. Sometimes people don't even realize they need print until they think about it. 'Oh yeah,' they say. It's not going away and we're here to help," she says.

About Productivity Network

The Productivity Network provides high-end print production services typically found at large advertising agency studios. It can meet a variety of production needs ranging from print to digital and can efficiently and professionally handle ever-changing production needs. Prior to launching Productivity Network, Pflederer and Wade worked for multiple major advertising agencies and for countless top-name brands. They've successfully executed and delivered national and international print campaigns and now they're excited to pass on that expertise and passion directly to their clients.

For more information, visit: https://www.productivitynet.com/.

MULTIMEDIA:

Photo link for media: https://www.Send2Press.com/300dpi/21-0831s2p-print-not-over-300dpi.jpg

Photo Caption: "Print's Not Over."

MEDIA ONLY CONTACT:
Erika Pflederer
of Productivity Network
+1-773-574-0432
Erika.Pflederer@productivitynet.com

Is print cool or old school? According to the Productivity Network LLC, a Chicago-based print production company, it's a little of both and that's a good thing. In business for one year, the team at the Productivity Network is positive that print's not just sexy, it's downright hot.

Related link: https://www.productivitynet.com/

Real Estate Technology Firm Swift Homes Partners with iHeartMedia on Marketing Campaign

CHICAGO, Ill. /ScoopCloud/ -- Today, Swift Homes announced a partnership with iHeartMedia on a multiplatform marketing campaign across multiple markets in the United States to help build awareness of Swift Homes' benefits and seller-friendly offerings that are available to consumers who are looking for real estate advice and services.

"Our partnership with iHeartMedia is important because of the scope and scale they provide," a Swift Homes senior executive said. "Their relationship with their audience allows Swift Homes to effectively communicate to prospective home sellers - educating audiences across the country about simplifying their home selling process."

Swift Homes is a technology company specializing in fast and easy home sales without the seller needing to list their property with a realtor. Their innovative platform provides home sellers with a fast cash offer and closing as quickly as thirty days after signing a contract. Home sellers pay no traditional broker fees, make no repairs, and close and receive cash as soon as thirty days after signing a contract.

Swift Homes stands out among its competitors because it operates across the United States, so sellers aren't limited to specific geographies. In addition, Swift Homes provides special seller-friendly offerings such as allowing sellers to remain in their homes with a rent back program. Even more, Swift Homes will typically make a purchase even if the home being sold is an investment home with tenants.

The marketing campaign has begun and is running across iHeartMedia broadcast radio stations in six markets including: Birmingham, Cincinnati, Fayetteville, Memphis, Raleigh, and St. Louis.

About Swift Homes

Swift Homes is the pre-eminent buyer of homes within the real estate tech space. Their technology has revolutionized and simplified the way a home is sold by streamlining the process and removing unnecessary fees and time that come from listing a home with a broker. With over 20,000 offers made, Swift Homes is one of the largest technology-based home buyers in the country, and their team has over 20 years of experience purchasing homes. In short, if sellers need to sell fast or for any reason, they can sell to Swift Homes in a few easy steps.

About iHeartMedia

iHeartMedia, Inc. [Nasdaq: IHRT] is the leading audio media company in America, reaching over 250 million people each month. It is number one in both broadcast and digital streaming radio as well as podcasting and audio ad tech and includes three business segments: The iHeartMedia Multiplatform Group; the iHeartMedia Digital Audio Group; and the Audio and Media Services Group. Visit https://www.iheartmedia.com/ for more company information.

MORE INFORMATION:

Swift Homes is located at 875 North Michigan Avenue Suite 3218 in Chicago and can be reached by calling (877) 861-2466. For more information visit http://www.selltoswift.com/ or email hello@SelltoSwift.com.

Today, Swift Homes announced a partnership with iHeartMedia on a multiplatform marketing campaign across multiple markets in the United States to help build awareness of Swift Homes' benefits and seller-friendly offerings that are available to consumers who are looking for real estate advice and services.

Related link: https://www.selltoswift.com

Chicago West Side Families Celebrate 70 Years of Peace and Unity

CHICAGO, Ill. /ScoopCloud/ -- 3161-3163 Monroe Family Fellowship Chicago IL and NewNegro Media announce a Plaque Dedication Ceremony at 3161-3163 Monroe, September 5, 2021, to celebrate the tenants 70-year anniversary. All families are invited, tickets are $30 and children under 12 free. The event kicks off Friday September 3 with an evening cocktail reception at Comfort Suites Lombard, Saturday September 4, Picnic Miller Meadows Forest Preserve River Forest, and Sunday September 5th Gumbo Gala following the dedication ceremony.

Participants must RSVP by August 27th, 2021, for ticket information contact Derrick Williams newnegro@yahoo.com or call (312) 523-7227.

3161-3163 W. Monroe is not an address; it is "the Mothership." For over 70 years families connected by bloodlines, childhoods and a church have resided at the six-unit, three-story, apartment complex, located in the heart of East Garfield Park. The "Monroe Family Fellowship" will be hosting a Plaque Dedication Ceremony September 5, 3161-3163 W. Monroe at 3 p.m.

The Family Fellowship are the Balthazars, Milam/Brownlee's, Jackson/Norwood, and Brown/Williams.

All Monroe family and friends are invited to attend a celebration to honor the pioneers and motivators of 3161, 3162, 3163 and 3164 W Monroe with a bronze plaque that reads, "A love silhouette of brick and mortar, this building and the names engraved below will forever be bound together as a symbol for grace, redemption, and unending friendship, proving unity and love trump racism, corruption, and palpable ignorance."

HONOREES:

* Mr. & Mrs. Louis and Doretta Balthazar, Mr. and Mrs. Richard and Robbie Brownlee, Mr. & Mrs. Louvania (Brother) and Dorothy Brownlee

* Mr. & Mrs. Henry and Lucy Hailey, Mr. & Mrs. Matthew and Margaret Milam, Mr. & Mrs. Sydney and Annie Norwood,

* Mr. & Mrs. Spencer and Mary Williams, Mrs. Anna White, Ms. Daisy Partee, Ms. John Ella Williams, Mr. Joe Ford,

* Reverend Ferdinand Hargrett, Reverend E.J. Hatch

The Milam and Brownlee family's relationship goes back to reconstruction when both families lived on plantations known in the 1900 census as Beat 5, Tate County, Mississippi. It was said "The Brownlee's were the only sharecroppers allowed to leave the plantation, because they were related to the White People who owned the land." This mattered little to Papa Brownlee. He had a reputation for being a defiant Black man, or the more popular phrase, "an unruly Negro," a trait present in the Brownlee's today.

Lucy Milam, born in slavery worked as domestic for a person only known as "The White Man." She would birth 14 children between her husband Hence Milam, and the man known as the "The White Man."

According to her Great Grandson Frank Wilson, "My father would tell me stories about how they would all go to this white lady's house, and she gave them food, because she knew they were the children of her husband."

Frank Wilson's father, Frank Milam partnered with Mr. Jake Brownlee and the two became the most successful bootleggers in Mississippi. Jake had a brother named Richard Brownlee. Richard was known for being handsome, a barber, and successful gambler. Richard liked to gamble and drink; Frank like to drink and gamble. By 1925, the rear of Richard Brownlee's shop became an official Negro Casino. Some years later, Richard would meet Frank Milam's 1st Cousin, a fair maiden named Robbie, and here is where story begins for the next generation.

In 1950 two families one from Louisiana and one from Mississippi purchased what is now 3161-3163 W Monroe. Among them were Robbie and Richard Brownlee, who could like many others, could pass for white, but instead demanded to be Black, purchased property, and invited other family to join them. The apartments soon became a way station for what would be called the "Great Migration."

3161-3163 Monroe is not a building; it is an institution. An urban motherland, that nurtures with a concrete smile, it is the address on birth certificates, parents birth certificates, grandparents birth certificates, and sadly obituaries. Despite the violence and gentrification of Chicago's Westside, after seven decades the families continue to keep the peace and maintain the property in the heart of East Garfield Park.

3161-3163 Monroe Family Fellowship Chicago IL and NewNegro Media announce a Plaque Dedication Ceremony at 3161-3163 Monroe, September 5, 2021, to celebrate the tenants 70-year anniversary. All families are invited, tickets are $30 and children under 12 free.

Related link: http://www.newnegromedia.com/

New Research Shows Consumers Find Moments of Small Pleasure Beat Big Experiences When It Comes to Well-Being

CHICAGO, Ill. /ScoopCloud/ -- The Australian Macadamia industry released research that reveals that almost 50% of consumers globally now value finding peace and quiet in everyday life as the key to a happy mind. Conversely, only 25% globally said occasional big experiences and milestones make them happy.

The pandemic has reinvented day-to-day well-being, making it more difficult to manage than ever before. It forces consumers, the world over, to reconsider what makes them happy, while redefining the concept of indulgence, and the way our daily food choices can support this.

According to Accredited Practising Dietitian, Susie Burrell who also holds a Masters of Coaching Psychology and has a particular interest in mental health and wellbeing, finding new ways to manage mood and stress has never been more important. "The pandemic has resulted in many people turning inward and looking for ways they can actively work to support their own health and wellbeing. With big treats such as overseas trips off the table, and milestones like weddings and other celebrations more restricted, we've had to train ourselves to look forward to small things to find pleasure in on a daily basis to support our own happiness."

This is supported by the research, carried out in Australia, Japan, China, Taiwan, South Korea and USA, and also showed that almost half of consumers globally say indulgence is about finding little pleasures of joy in the everyday, while only 27% defined indulgence as being about a special-occasion treat.

"On a day-to-day basis, people are carving out small moments of indulgence and savouring them," says Burrell. "Nourishing the body with healthy, nutritious food is an act of self-care and one of the easiest ways we can support not just physical but mental health too. Quality plant-based food in an otherwise ordinary day is a great way to support good mood, especially now when many people are feeling overwhelmed, anxious and emotionally drained after dealing with the pandemic for many months."

Australian Macadamias Market Development Manager Jacqui Price says macadamias are ideally suited to meeting the demands of these trends.

"Our research showed that 60% of people globally and 64% in the USA believe they have the ability to not just manage their physical well-being but also mental wellness, so they want food that is going to sustain them and their frame of mind throughout the day," says Ms. Price. "Macadamias are the perfect mood-booster and stress-buster. Its fiber, heart-healthy fats, protein, vitamins and minerals offer many physical health benefits, while their velvety texture and creamy flavour make them an indulgent snack or ingredient, ideal for a range of food products."

It seems consumers also recognize these qualities. "It was exciting to discover that 53% of people consider macadamias to be a rich and delicious indulgence that is also good for your body," she says. "With consumers' desire for optimal wellness driving the increase in new products with on-pack wellness claims, macadamias make a great choice for food brands looking for an edge in this space."

About Australian Macadamias

Australia is the world's major producer of macadamia kernel and macadamias are Australia's fourth largest horticultural export. There are approximately 800 growers producing more than 46,000 tonnes per year, with 75% of the crop exported to more than 40 countries. Learn more at: https://trade.australian-macadamias.org/.

About new Australian Macadamias research

In late 2020, Australian Macadamias commissioned research based on 6014 individual surveys with consumers in Australia, China, South Korea, Japan, Taiwan and the USA. Conducted by the Singapore regional office of independent research agency Kantar, the research was conducted between August and October 2020 and findings delivered in December 2020.

COMMUNICATIONS CONTACT

Jennifer Seyler, MBA, MS, RD

E: jseylernutrition@hotmail.com

P: 312-919-5643

MULTIMEDIA:

*PHOTO link for media: https://www.Send2Press.com/300dpi/21-0727s2p-australian-macs-300dpi.jpg

*Caption: Australian Macadamias, Innovative Food Product Ingredient.

The Australian Macadamia industry released research that reveals that almost 50% of consumers globally now value finding peace and quiet in everyday life as the key to a happy mind. Conversely, only 25% globally said occasional big experiences and milestones make them happy.

Related link: https://trade.australian-macadamias.org/

Associated Colleges of Illinois Awarded Grant to Help Improve Four-Year Degree Completion Rates for Community College Transfer Students

CHICAGO, Ill. /ScoopCloud/ -- Associated Colleges of Illinois (ACI) (https://acifund.org), the Illinois Community College Board (ICCB) and the Illinois Board of Higher Education (IBHE) were awarded a $25,000 planning grant to conduct research and develop an implementation plan to help more community college transfer students earn bachelor's degrees at ACI-affiliated colleges and universities.

The Teagle Foundation (https://www.teaglefoundation.org/Home), New York City, and the Arthur Vining Davis Foundations (https://www.avdf.org/), Ponte Vedra Beach, Florida, awarded the planning grant, called "Transfer Pathways to the Liberal Arts." Collaborative research and planning work is expected to begin July 1 and be completed at the end of the 2021 calendar year.

"We're excited about the grant award and this initial phase to build enrollment and financial support for community college transfer students," said Mick Weltman, ACI executive director. "We're also pleased to collaborate with statewide team members such as ICCB and IBHE in this initial planning effort."

The grant proposal quotes research that states that 65 percent of jobs in today's economy require at least some postsecondary education, and yet, significant numbers of Illinois residents have no post-secondary degrees or credentials. Illinois established a goal of increasing the proportion of residents who hold high-quality degrees or credentials to 60 percent by 2025. In addition, more than 7 of 10 students who earned associate's degrees, then transferred to four-year institutions, earned four-year degrees in two years, according to the National Student Clearinghouse.

To meet the terms of the planning grant, ACI, the ICCB and the IBHE will form the Illinois Project Leadership Team. Team members will conduct academic and financial research, aimed at improving academic transferability and development of a campaign and fundraising plan to assist community college transfer students and Illinois higher-education institutions, according to the grant proposal.

The academic component, led by a project investigator, will involve collaborative research to help the project leadership team determine "effective strategies that can streamline and strengthen existing pathways," the grant proposal said. The team will also study a statewide community college transfer agreement among ACI-affiliated colleges and universities.

The financial research component will include resource development opportunities to fund community college students transferring to ACI-member institutions, and how best to obtain financial support.

A project investigator and ACI will use the research results to development a case for supporting more scholarships for community college transfer students and the expected effect on transfer degree-completion rates. The team will also develop a fundraising plan.

The project team will include ACI Executive Director Mick Weltman (mweltman@acifund.org), ACI staff, faculty and provost from ACI-member Judson University (https://www.judsonu.edu/), provost from Lincoln Land Community College, IBHE, ICCB leaders and an independent financial consultant.

About ACI:

Associated Colleges of Illinois (ACI) is a collaboration of 267 private, independent colleges and universities, representing more than 70,000 students. Established in 1952, ACI supports member colleges and universities by advancing independent liberal arts and sciences education and helping underserved students succeed in college, careers and life. The organization raises funds for scholarships, peer mentoring and emergency financial aid, and it provides member services such as professional development conferences and college-to-career seminars and events.

Visit ACI's website (https://acifund.org) for more information.

MEDIA CONTACT:
John Brooks
Associated Colleges of Illinois
jbrooks@acifund.org
Phone 312-263-2391

Associated Colleges of Illinois (ACI), the Illinois Community College Board (ICCB) and the Illinois Board of Higher Education (IBHE) were awarded a $25,000 planning grant to conduct research and develop an implementation plan to help more community college transfer students earn bachelor's degrees at ACI-affiliated colleges and universities.

Related link: https://acifund.org

Music Theater Works Presents Mamma Mia!

SKOKIE, Ill. /ScoopCloud/ -- Music Theater Works will present "Mamma Mia!" at the North Shore Center For The Performing Arts In Skokie (9501 Skokie Blvd, Skokie, IL 60076) from August 19, 2021 through August 29, 2021 being the second production of the 2021 Season.

About The Show

ABBA's hits tell the hilarious story of a young woman's search for her birth father. This sunny and funny tale unfolds on a Greek island paradise. On the eve of her wedding, a daughter's quest to discover the identity of her father brings three men from her mother's past back to the island they last visited 20 years ago.

The story-telling magic of ABBA's timeless songs propels this enchanting tale of love, laughter and friendship, creating an unforgettable show. A large cast, non-stop laughs and explosive dance numbers combine to make "Mamma Mia!" a guaranteed smash hit. A mother. A daughter. Three possible dads. A trip down the aisle you'll never forget with MUSIC THEATER WORKS!

PRODUCTION DETAILS

Who:
* Music Theater Works

What:
* Mamma Mia!
* Directed by Justin Brill
* Book by Catherine Johnson
* Choreography by Shanna VanDerwerker
* Music Directed and Conducted by Linda Madonia
* Music and Lyrics by Benny Anderson and Björn Ulvaeus (songs with Stig Anderson)

Cast Members:
* Dan Gold (as Bill Austin)
* Veronica Garza (as Rosie)
* Casiena Raether (as Tanya)
* Heather Banks (as Sophie Sheridan)
* Andrew Fortman (as Sam Carmichael)
* Alexis Armstrong (as Donna Sheridan)
* North Rory Homewood (as Harry Bright)

Creative Team:
* Sound Designer (Aaron Quick)
* Set Designer (Kristen Martino)
* Production Manager (Bob Silton)
* Hair and Make-Up (Alice Salazar)
* Lighting Designer (Andrew Myers)
* Costume Designer (Rueben Echoles)
* Props Designer (Hayley E. Wallenfeldt)
* Producing Artistic Director (Kyle A. Dougan)
* Assistant Director and Choreographer (Emma Parssi)

When:
* Group Performance: Thursday, August 19, 2021 @ 1:00 PM
* Press Performance: Friday, August 20, 2021 @ 8:00 PM
* Saturday, August 21, 2021 @ 8:00 PM
* Sunday, August 22, 2021 @ 2:00 PM
* Wednesday, August 25, 2021 @ 1:00 PM
* Friday, August 27, 2021 @ 8:00 PM
* Saturday, August 28, 2021 @ 2:00 PM & 8:00 PM
* Sunday, August 29, 2021 @ 2:00 PM

Where:

North Shore Center For The Performing Arts In Skokie
9501 Skokie Blvd.
Skokie, IL 60077

Tickets:

Tickets start at $39 for Standard Seating and tickets start at $48 for Preferred Seating. Tickets for those ages 25 and under are half-price.

Box Office: (847) 673-6300

Website: https://www.musictheaterworks.com/Mamma-Mia/

Health Safety:

Health safety guidelines imposed by the North Shore Center For The Performing Arts In Skokie have been followed in staging this event. For more information about the measures being taken please visit https://northshorecenter.org/.

Upcoming Shows

The 2021 season will feature RAGTIME (Oct 28th - Nov 7th) and BILLY ELLIOT THE MUSICAL (Dec 23rd - Jan 2, 2022).

The 2021 season has been proudly sponsored by Joyce Saxon.

About Music Theater Works

Music Theater Works is a professional non-profit theater company based in Wilmette, Illinois featuring a colorful repertoire including operetta, the Golden Age of Broadway, the Great American Songbook, and modern classics since 1980.

As of 2021, Music Theater Works has become a resident theater company at the North Shore Center For The Performing Arts In Skokie (9501 Skokie Blvd, Skokie, IL 60076).

The mission of Music Theater Works is to produce and present musical theater from a variety of world traditions and to engage the local community through educational and outreach programs.

Media Contact
Aaron Ozee
Director of Marketing
Music Theater Works
Phone: (847) 920-5360 ext. 7
Email: aozee@musictheaterworks.org

Music Theater Works will present "Mamma Mia!" at the North Shore Center For The Performing Arts In Skokie (9501 Skokie Blvd, Skokie, IL 60076) from August 19, 2021 through August 29, 2021 being the second production of the 2021 Season.

Related link: https://www.musictheaterworks.com/

Calgary Author Honored in 2021 Indie Book Awards for Memoir about Social Justice and Overcoming Mental Health Struggles

CHICAGO, Ill. /ScoopCloud/ -- Sandra LA Boszko is quickly building a name for herself as an author who's edgy and honest. That's why her new book, "~~Welcome~~ to California: From LA County Jail to #1 in Sales" (ISBN: 978-1525546440) was named one of the best indie books of 2021 by the Independent Book Publishing Professionals Group. It recounts how her mental illness led to a wrongful and traumatic incarceration in the Los Angeles County jail system.

(Editorial note: Book title has strike-through [line] on the word 'Welcome.')

The book is humorous and heartbreaking all at once. It traces how she traveled from her home in Canada to the hills of Hollywood to pursue a career in acting/stunts and recounts how bipolar disorder repeatedly sent her packing from Los Angeles. After failed attempts to develop this dream, she finds herself in a prison system that ignores protocol for inmates with mental illness.

"The whole experience was horrific," she says. "Writing this book was cathartic and helped with the overwhelming anxiety and PTSD that resulted from this damaging ordeal. I never had that before."

For example, a 5150 is a section of the California Welfare and Institution Code (Thomson Reuters, 2017) that authorizes a mental health practitioner or an officer to involuntarily confine an individual suspected to have a mental disorder who is gravely disabled, a danger to themselves, or a danger to others. The individual can be brought into custody for up to 72 hours for assessment or placed into a treatment facility.

"Unfortunately, I didn't receive a 5150 even though the arresting officer knew I was mentally ill," Boszko explains. "Celebrities such as Amanda Bynes, Britney Spears, Mischa Barton and Kanye West have all received a 5150."

Sandra's incarceration lasted 10 days while her family struggled to locate her and to convince the courts that she was in need of medical care. During that time, she experienced abusive guards, isolation and neglect.

And according to L.A. County Jail stats, she's not alone. The County of Los Angeles reports that 70 percent of the inmate population has a serious medical or mental illness upon initial assessment and at least 30 percent of its inmates have a mental illness.

"This experience left me deeply traumatized and I knew I had to share this story with others. During the writing process, I began to heal," she says. "I want people to understand mental illness from the inside out and to help the stigma go away. I truly hope this memoir helps others to realize that they are not alone in their struggles."

Sandra is an award-winning finalist in two categories - Social Justice and Memoirs (Personal Struggle/Health Issues) in the 2021 Next Generation Indie Book Awards, the world's largest book awards program for independent publishers and self-published authors.

The winners and finalists will be honored on June 25, 2021 in an online event which will stream live on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/NextGenerationIndieBookAwards at 7 p.m. ET and 4 p.m. PT.

The Next Generation Indie Book Awards are judged by leaders of the indie book publishing industry, including many with long careers at major publishing houses.

For more information: https://www.indiebookawards.com/aboutus/

About the Author

Sandra currently works as a full-time Territory Manager for a multinational company. She enjoys facilitating presentations and has been a facilitator for a bipolar group in Calgary. She's active in Toastmasters and has placed first at two of its 2019 competitions. She has a Bachelor of Science in Nutrition from the University of Manitoba and a black belt in Taekwondo. She lives in Calgary. Alberta. This is her first book.

For more information about the book and the author: https://sandralaboszko.com/

MULTIMEDIA:

PHOTO link for media: https://www.Send2Press.com/300dpi/21-0624s2p-welcalif-300dpi.jpg

Caption: "~~Welcome~~ to California: From LA County Jail to #1 in Sales" by Sandra LA Boszko.

(Editorial note: Book title has strike-through [line] on the word 'Welcome.')

Sandra LA Boszko is quickly building a name for herself as an author who's edgy and honest. That's why her new book, "Welcome to California: From LA County Jail to #1 in Sales" (ISBN: 978-1525546440) was named one of the best indie books of 2021 by the Independent Book Publishing Professionals Group.

Related link: https://sandralaboszko.com/

Swift Homes Achieves Milestone of 20,000 Home Offers This Year

CHICAGO, Ill. /ScoopCloud/ -- Swift Homes, a Chicago-based property purchasing company that buys homes for fair prices to rent out to local families and which is backed by a multi-billion-dollar private equity fund, announced its milestone achievement of 20,000 home offers this year, hitting awe-inspiring cash offer numbers to the delight of neighbors across the nation and cementing its reputation as one of America's largest cash home buyers.

Being in a unique position to help clients who need to sell their home for any reason, the Swift Homes team boasts the ability to guide the seller through the process and close the transaction quickly, its representatives utilizing a systematic approach that has proven its worth as a valuable tool for sellers in a myriad of transactions. What's more, because the company buys homes and rents them out, its reps are in a position to provide competitive offers, the Swift Homes team being comprised of members with more than 20 years combined experience buying properties.

"The Swift Homes team has completed transactions on more than 5,000 properties, with an emphasis on single-family homes, and we are so very proud of this latest incredible milestone achievement," says a Swift Homes senior company representative. "Because we can make cash offers without requiring a visit to a property, our team boasts the ability to close on a seller's desired timeline, handling all necessary repair work - a tactic that has undoubtedly contributed to this year's 20,000 home offerings.

"Further, Swift Homes occupies a specific niche in the form of helping homeowners sell their properties with ease, guiding sellers through their straightforward process and closing transactions in a fast and hassle-free manner. Indeed, to label our company a 'renowned real estate buying entity for numerous reasons' is something of an understatement."

The reason why so many sellers work with Swift Homes has to do with the company's ever-widening presence and vast experience, what with its team operating in more than 100 markets around the U.S., in thousands of cities, in addition to standout elements such as its program that allows sellers to remain in their homes by renting them back from Swift. And, the organization makes a purchase even if a seller is dealing with an investment home with tenants, as the homes are regularly bought to be made available for renting.

The Swift Homes three-step process begins with sellers answering a few questions about their property and company reps preparing an offer, before a home is sold as-is for cash - without the need to worry about repairs. Sellers then have the opportunity to close within 10 days, in a few weeks or longer, and can even pick their specific closing date.

According to Swift Homes personnel, the typical individual selling to the company is any home owner looking to unload a property quickly at a fair and competitive price; he or she may want to sell for a number of reasons, whether it's not being able to keep up with mortgage payments, a divorce or being behind on taxes. Irrespective of a house needing too much work or someone looking to part with a home that was inherited, Swift Homes buys houses for cash from any home owner - for any reason.

While the company specializes in single-family homes, Swift will work with sellers attempting to unload condos and multi-family/commercial properties.

Swift Homes is located at 875 North Michigan Avenue Suite 3218 in Chicago and can be reached by calling (877) 861-2466. For more information visit http://www.selltoswift.com/ or email hello@SelltoSwift.com.

Swift Homes, a Chicago-based property purchasing company that buys homes for fair prices to rent out to local families and which is backed by a multi-billion-dollar private equity fund, announced its milestone achievement of 20,000 home offers this year.

Related link: https://www.selltoswift.com

Chicago Support Group Part of National Network Taking Aim at Chronic Pain

CHICAGO, Ill. /ScoopCloud/ -- More than 50 million Americans live with chronic pain. The U.S. Pain Foundation addresses the incredibly isolating and difficult experience that affects all aspects of a person's life-their ability to work, their self-confidence and identify, personal relationships and social engagement, and more. Studies show that people who experience daily pain are significantly more prone to anxiety, depression, and even suicidal ideation.

But it does not have to be that way.

Led by Becky Fleming of Orland Park, Illinois, a support group that meets monthly via Zoom is helping alleviate the myriad of struggles faced by individuals with chronic pain. Becky Fleming draws on her own experiences with migraine to help educate and encourage attendees.

The support groups offer attendees the chance to connect and talk with others who understand the unique challenges of disabling pain. But there's also an educational component-leaders help participants understand new treatment options, self-management strategies, mindfulness techniques, and more.

"I have lived with chronic pain for 17 years. For many years, I felt alone and feared my chronic pain would make my life unmanageable. I felt like I lost so much of my life. It's been a long road to get to the place I'm in now, and I hope to help others on their path towards a better life while living with chronic pain," says Fleming.

The group is part of Pain Connection, a national network of support groups created through U.S. Pain Foundation, the largest organization in the country dedicated to serving people with chronic pain. Led by Gwenn Herman, LCSW, DCSW, who lives with chronic pain herself, Pain Connection offers an intensive training to volunteers looking to become effective group leaders.

After completing the training program, support group leaders return to their communities ready to establish a group for other people with chronic pain. The leaders use the training and their own experiences with chronic health conditions to facilitate dialogue and understanding among group members, and nurture a sense of community that can be so valuable.

The group, which meets via Zoom on 10 June 2021 from 3:30 pm to 5 pm CST, and plans to continue monthly meetings on the second Thursday of each month in the coming year. To learn more, contact Becky Fleming at USPainChicago@gmail.com.

U.S. Pain Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to serving those who live with pain conditions and their care providers. It offers dozens of programs and services designed to empower, educate, connect, and advocate for people living with conditions that cause pain. Learn more at https://uspainfoundation.org/.

More than 50 million Americans live with chronic pain. The U.S. Pain Foundation addresses the incredibly isolating and difficult experience that affects all aspects of a person's life-their ability to work, their self-confidence and identify, personal relationships and social engagement, and more. Studies show that people who experience daily pain are significantly more prone to anxiety, depression, and even suicidal ideation.

Related link: https://uspainfoundation.org/

Chicago Rock Band Lucky Boys Confusion Celebrates 20th Album Anniversary with Global Streaming Event Memorial Day Weekend

CHICAGO, Ill. /ScoopCloud/ -- It's been twenty years since Lucky Boys Confusion arrived on the global scene with their 2001 debut, "Throwing the Game." During the TTG era, the hard-touring Chicago five-piece crisscrossed the U.S. innumerable times over, made their national television debut on the CBS Late Late Show, and even made a pit stop in Japan to play for their enthusiastic overseas fan base.

The ensuing two decades have been a story of artistic growth (see 2003's follow-up, "Commitment") and perseverance through tragedy (the unexpected loss of founding member Joe Sell in 2012) as the band has continued to perform and create, culminating with their 2017 comeback record, "Stormchasers."

Now, with the "Throwing the Game 20th Anniversary Special" the boys are back, and ready to celebrate their legacy. This special global streaming event - an "in-studio concert & documentary special" - is a combination of recently recorded live footage (including TTG classics such as "40/80'" and "Fred Astaire"), new interviews with the band members, and unearthed archival footage from the recording of the album, as well as the ensuing 2001-2002 tours. Oh, and maybe a few surprise guests will drop by to say hello!

The "Throwing the Game 20th Anniversary Special" streams worldwide on Thursday, May 27 at 8 p.m. Central Time on the Moment House streaming platform (https://www.momenthouse.com/co/luckyboysconfusion-throwing-the-game-20-year-anniversary), where the band will be doing a live, virtual "VIP after party" with fans immediately following the airing. Virtual tickets are available now, which will provide users a link to the event.

Follow Lucky Boys Confusion on social:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/luckyboysconfusion/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/luckyboysconfusion/

It's been twenty years since Lucky Boys Confusion arrived on the global scene with their 2001 debut, "Throwing the Game." During the TTG era, the hard-touring Chicago five-piece crisscrossed the U.S. innumerable times over, made their national television debut on the CBS Late Late Show, and even made a pit stop in Japan to play for their enthusiastic overseas fan base.

Related link: https://www.luckyboysconfusion.net/

American Board of Cosmetic Surgery Raises the Bar for Patient Safety

CHICAGO, Ill. /ScoopCloud/ -- To celebrate Patient Safety Awareness Week (March 14-20, 2021), the American Board of Cosmetic Surgery (ABCS) announces a new way for patients to identify a cosmetic surgeon with a particular focus on safety: Cosmetic Surgery Patient Safety® (CSPS) certification.

"While all of our board certified cosmetic surgeons are already required to understand and meet high safety standards, this added credential shows patients the surgeon has gone above and beyond in prioritizing safety matters," explained Dr. Wilbur Hah, Texas cosmetic surgeon and president of the Board.

To display the Cosmetic Surgery Patient Safety® badge, board certified cosmetic surgeons must pass a specialized, in-depth Patient Safety Exam in addition to the fellowship training and rigorous exams they completed to become a board certified cosmetic surgeon. The CSPS logo is intended to reassure patients that not only is their surgeon highly trained in cosmetic procedures: they are also up to date on the latest research-driven best practices for patient safety.

To find a surgeon with Cosmetic Surgery Patient Safety® certification, patients should look for the CSPS badge on a board certified cosmetic surgeon's ABCS member profile, on their social media or website, or at their practice.

Dr. Hah explained that it is imperative for patients to understand their surgeon's qualifications and experience to safely achieve excellent results, whether it is with nonsurgical treatments or surgical procedures. Safety concerns have arisen in recent years around topics such as a recalled model of breast implant, unsafe Brazilian butt lift techniques, and unqualified providers of injectables. All of these issues point to the necessity of board certified cosmetic surgeons, whose training emphasizes both safety and achieving excellent aesthetic results.

"Choosing a board certified cosmetic surgeon with extensive experience, the highest level of training, and very safe practices is within reach. Once patients realize that, they will settle for nothing less," he said. He urged patients to take advantage of the free resources available on the board's website and patient safety blog as they search for a provider of surgical or nonsurgical procedures.

About American Board of Cosmetic Surgery:

The American Board of Cosmetic Surgery (ABCS) is the only board dedicated exclusively to excellence in cosmetic surgery. For over 40 years, the ABCS has demonstrated the highest standards of training, knowledge, and expertise in cosmetic surgery, in addition to promoting safe and ethical practice. You can find more information about the ABCS online at http://www.americanboardcosmeticsurgery.org/

Media Contact: Dr. Wilbur Hah, (425) 689-5665

To celebrate Patient Safety Awareness Week (March 14-20, 2021), the American Board of Cosmetic Surgery (ABCS) announces a new way for patients to identify a cosmetic surgeon with a particular focus on safety: Cosmetic Surgery Patient Safety® (CSPS) certification.

Associated Colleges of Illinois to Host March 9 Virtual Event Focused on Solutions to Illinois’ Economic Challenges

CHICAGO, Ill. /ScoopCloud/ -- College presidents, corporate leaders and students will lead an Associated Colleges of Illinois' (https://acifund.org) virtual event March 9, at 11 a.m., focused on how educators and the business community are working together to offer solutions to economic challenges faced by Illinois' companies, schools and students.

Registration (ow.ly/NzAm50DNZCo) for the virtual event is open through March 9. The video program can be viewed on ACI's website (https://acifund.org/march-9-virtual-event/).

Register: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSf2q_DTK-PnKPDVx42kIlZUvzEnnlUeOxNXRw9kprHVG76-xw/viewform

The event, "A Smarter Solution: How the Liberal Arts and Business Community Together are Solving Illinois Challenges," includes discussion of ACI's extensive alumni employment data (https://acifund.org/member-employment-data/). Presidents of four ACI-affiliated colleges and universities, a Fortune 500 company CEO and two corporate members of ACI's Board of Trustees, including a student, will be presenters.

The virtual event is planned for 11 a.m. to 11:45 a.m. CST. President Jamel Santa Cruze Wright, Eureka College, will introduce the program and offer concluding remarks. Wright is also ACI president.

Other topics and speakers are:

* What are the challenges? - President Philip G. Ryken, Wheaton College

* How can we meet these challenges? - Kunal Kapoor, CEO, Morningstar, Inc., and graduate of ACI-member Monmouth College

* What do ACI-member schools offer as one solution? - President Teresa L. Amott, Knox College

* What have been the results shown by the employment data? - President Troy D. Hammond, North Central College

* How can you get involved? - Chloe Overstreet, ACI board member and student at ACI-member Eureka College, and Mark A. Vargas, ACI board member and president, Licentiam. Vargas is also a graduate ACI-member Judson University.

After the virtual event, a recording will be available on ACI's YouTube channel.

About ACI:

Associated Colleges of Illinois (ACI) is a collaboration of 26 private, independent colleges and universities, representing more than 70,000 students. Established in 1952, ACI supports member colleges and universities by advancing independent liberal arts and sciences education and helping underserved students succeed in college, career and life. The organization raises funds for scholarships, peer mentoring and emergency financial aid, and it provides member services such as professional development conferences and college-to-career seminars and events. Visit ACI's website https://acifund.org for more information.

College presidents, corporate leaders and students will lead an Associated Colleges of Illinois' virtual event March 9, at 11 a.m., focused on how educators and the business community are working together to offer solutions to economic challenges faced by Illinois' companies, schools and students.

Related link: https://acifund.org

Sunpro Solar Brings Affordable Solar Power to Chicago

MANDEVILLE, La. /ScoopCloud/ -- Sunpro Solar, a leading provider of home solar energy in the U.S., is expanding its services in Illinois to the greater Chicago area. The company's ongoing expansion strategy throughout Illinois creates more opportunity for economic growth and energy independence.

"There has never been a better time for Chicago residents to generate their own electricity and experience relief from rising electricity costs," said Sunpro Solar Founder and CEO, Marc Jones. "We're thrilled to be a part of the clean energy movement in Illinois by creating new jobs and a cleaner future for the city of Chicago."

For residents in Chicago and the surrounding metro area, Sunpro Solar will be able to help them purchase solar energy systems, battery backup systems and enhance their savings with energy efficiency upgrades. As a new Sunpro Solar location, Chicago customers will be eligible for state and utility programs as well as the federal solar investment tax credit.

"With recent changes to the solar rebates in Illinois, we are excited to bring customers new solar offerings that will allow them to own their solar energy systems and take full advantage of the tax and cost-savings benefits," said Gregg Murphy, Sunpro Solar's Chief Revenue Officer. "The company's expansion to Chicago creates economic opportunities and brings local jobs to Chicago that will support the solar energy workplace."

When residents living in and around Chicago switch to solar, there are significant opportunities to claim statewide solar incentives, participate in net metering and take advantage of property tax exemptions. For more information about opportunities and incentives for Chicago, Illinois homeowners are welcome to schedule an appointment with a Sunpro Solar Specialist in Chicago.

Through the end of the year, Sunpro Solar expects to build teams and create a significant number of new jobs for the metro area of Chicago and elsewhere in Illinois. Candidates interested in employment opportunities can visit http://www.gosunpro.com/careers.

About Sunpro Solar:

Sunpro Solar is a leading residential solar company in the U.S. that provides affordable solar energy and battery storage solutions to homeowners nationwide. Sunpro Solar was named 5th largest residential solar installer in the U.S. by Solar Power World magazine in July 2020. An Inc. 500 company, Sunpro Solar continues to expand as the demand for home solar in the United States rapidly increases. Sunpro Solar is headquartered in Louisiana and has operational facilities in 17 states. For more information, visit http://www.gosunpro.com/.

Contact: Kristie Moser, Marketing
Phone: 866.450.1012
Email: kristie@theprocompanies.com
Direct Message: Facebook - @gosunpro, Instagram - @gosunpro

This release contains forward-looking statements including but not limited to, expected energy savings and future industry growth and expansion These statements should not be read as a guarantee of future indicators, performance, or results. These statements are based on current expectations and assumptions regarding future events.

Sunpro Solar, a leading provider of home solar energy in the U.S., is expanding its services in Illinois to the greater Chicago area. The company's ongoing expansion strategy throughout Illinois creates more opportunity for economic growth and energy independence.

Related link: https://www.gosunpro.com/

Chicago-Based Romance Novel Series Heads to The Moon

CHICAGO, Ill. /ScoopCloud/ -- Award-winning Chicagoland romance author Dania Voss's Windy City Nights series is taking part in the Writers on the Moon project. Coordinated by speculative fiction author Dr. Susan Kaye Quinn, Voss is among one hundred and 25 authors participating in the lunar time capsule adventure.

Voss's books will join Astrobotic's Peregrine Mission 1, launching this fall and landing on Lacus Mortis on the moon. Astrobotic is a space logistics company and an official NASA partner. This will be the first American moon landing since Apollo 17 in 1972.

The project's digital payload will be uploaded onto a SanDisk Extreme microSD card and will remain on the moon indefinitely. The hope is that the snapshot of indie fiction from around the world in 2021 will reveal the humanity of today, to the readers of tomorrow.

"I'm embarrassed to admit I nearly didn't participate, but expressed my interest on the final day Susan was accepting applications for this amazing voyage," Voss explains. "I'm thrilled to be included in this project with so many other talented authors and creatives."

Voss chose her award-winning romance novel "Hannah's Bliss" featuring International Italian model Luca Pantini on the cover, to be highlighted and listed on the mission's manifest. The other books in the Windy City Nights series, also part of her payload include novels "On the Ropes," "The Warrior's Whisper," and novella "Off the Hook." The steamy romance series takes place in and around Chicago.

About Dania Voss:

Award-winning author Dania Voss writes compelling, sexy romance with personality, heat, and heart. She brings her background as an Italian born in Rome and raised in Chicagoland to create stories with authentic, engaging characters. A favorite with romance readers, her debut novel "On The Ropes," the first in her Windy City Nights series, was nominated as Best Contemporary Romance in the 2018 Evernight Publishing Readers' Choice Awards.

The second and third installments in the Windy City Nights series, "The Warriors' Whisper" and "Hannah's Bliss" received 5-star reviews from Readers' Favorite(r). "Hannah's Bliss" received a 5-star review from The TBR Pile and was voted April 2019's Book of the Month. "Hannah's Bliss" earned an award in the Oklahoma Romance Writers of America's 2020 International Digital Awards contest. All three novels in the series were designated as Recommended Reads in the 2019 Author Shout Reader Ready Awards. Dania's work has been highlighted on NBC, ABC, CBS, and FOX, and she has been featured in the Chicago Tribune and Southern Writers Magazine.

Contact Information:
Dania Voss - http://www.daniavoss.com/
Email: daniavoss@gmail.com
Phone: 708-431-5311

IMAGES FOR MEDIA:

Image: Hannah's Bliss Cover
https://www.daniavoss.com/uploads/3/3/9/8/3398798/hannah%E2%80%99s_bliss-ebook-complete.jpg

Image: Dania Voss Headshot
https://www.daniavoss.com/uploads/3/3/9/8/3398798/daniavoss8.jpg

Image: Peregrine Lander and Lacus Mortis
https://3398798-351674438459031791.preview.editmysite.com/uploads/3/3/9/8/3398798/landingcollage.png

Award-winning Chicagoland romance author Dania Voss's Windy City Nights series is taking part in the Writers on the Moon project. Coordinated by speculative fiction author Dr. Susan Kaye Quinn, Voss is among one hundred and 25 authors participating in the lunar time capsule adventure.

Related link: https://www.daniavoss.com/

Cybernauts Called to PLANETXXI to Save Planet Earth

CHICAGO, Ill. /ScoopCloud/ -- PLANETXXI, an exoplanet and mirror to Earth, has recently picked up chatter and cries for help to save planet Earth. Their voices were heard in CyberCity, PLANETXXI's satellite communications center saying that planet Earth is in trouble. Sandra Snowden, Founder of PLANETXXI LLC and newly launched online entertainment broadcasting website, PLANETXXITV.com, says she and her company are ready to help save planet earth.

Through her cosmic character aka Celestina Xi, Ambassador from PLANETXXI, she is sending out an SOS to recruit a new generation of futurists and visionaries - Cybernauts. Together, they will work to solve Earth's environmental crisis and save the planet.

Concerned students are afraid that the future of the planet is grim and they are looking for ways to help. Becoming a PLANETXXI Cybernaut is one way to be a catalyst for change.

While NASA has astronauts travel the universe on space missions, PLANETXXI Cybernauts zoom at warp speed into cyberspace from CyberCity and connect with their counterparts in a "Think Tank of Tomorrow" where they're challenged to create The First Eco City of the Future on PLANETXXI.

Using a blank canvas, students can Dare to Dream Big on their vision quest and design the kind of sustainable, and eco-friendly world they would like to live in and inherit. This eco-city will be their future. Through their illustrations, inventions, and innovation, PLANETXXI Cybernauts can change the paradigm and the course of history. They can also showcase their ideas and videos for all the world to see on PLANETXXI TV's YouTube Channel.

"This is no time to stand on the sidelines and watch others take control of your future. Space greats already have plans to build cities on Mars and to create colonized habitats in space so people will have a safe place to live as Earth becomes more and more uninhabitable," Celestina says.

Celestina agrees that as the climate clock ticks, planet Earth may cease to exist by 2100 and believes that together, a sustainable future can be achieved on Earth and PLANETXXI.

She's calling all futurists and visionaries, especially Generation Z'ers, to become part of the mission. In addition, teachers and classrooms are also invited to join PLANETXXI Cyber Schools of the Future in helping to create a new eco-friendly planet at: http://www.planetxxitv.com/.

Cybernauts will receive membership to Club PLANETXXI, along with a virtual passport giving them access to participate in all cyber events and virtual activities in CyberCity. Cyber Kids of the Future can also become a Cyber Pal to planet Earth and PLANETXXI. (PLANETXXI is COPPA compliant)

For more information:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PLANETxxi-104345174620968

GoFundMe page: https://www.gofundme.com/f/planetxxi-cyber-school-of-future

VIDEO - YouTube: https://youtu.be/X7ryR8X0xOM

*PHOTO link for media: https://www.Send2Press.com/300dpi/21-0208s2p-celestinaxi-300dpi.jpg

*Caption: Celestina Xi at PLANETXXI CyberCity.

PLANETXXI, an exoplanet and mirror to Earth, has recently picked up chatter and cries for help to save planet Earth. Their voices were heard in CyberCity, PLANETXXI's satellite communications center saying that planet Earth is in trouble. Sandra Snowden, Founder of PLANETXXI LLC and newly launched online entertainment broadcasting website, PLANETXXITV.com, says she and her company are ready to help save planet earth.

Related link: http://www.planetxxitv.com/

Tech Giant Facebook ‘Censoring’ Small Business

CHICAGO, Ill. /ScoopCloud/ -- Nana's All Purpose Alkaline Seasoning, a premium Himalayan Salt based alkaline blend sold direct to consumers, at nanaseasoning.com, in an 8.4-ounce bottle is being "censored" by Facebook, says Changing The World Foods, LLC. Since October 27, 2020 Facebook has stopped this small business and others from placing paid advertisements.

"Nana's All Purpose Alkaline Seasoning is a small business, and we depend on social media sites like Facebook to advertise. So, when they disable our accounts and accounts of other small businesses it can harm our sales especially during a pandemic and economic downturn," says company Co-Founder and CEO, Rasheed Williams.

Nana's All Purpose Alkaline Seasoning launched on October 5, 2020 and is owned and distributed by Changing The World Foods, LLC, a consumer packaged goods company headquartered in Chicago, Illinois. The company ran several ad campaigns on Facebook for twenty-one (21) days until the tech giant disabled its ad accounts thus preventing the company from placing additional paid ads.

"We attempted to contact Facebook and resolve this issue for almost five months without any word from them. At the end of the day, we enjoy the platform and want to place ads to grow our business," says Williams.

The seasoning is alkaline which means having a pH higher than 7.0. The human body is naturally slightly alkaline, with a blood pH of around 7.4. In recent years alkaline diets and products have been embraced for various claims including possibly boosting immunity. While the company makes no health claims it does support living a healthy lifestyle with a balanced diet that may help boost immunity. It encourages all to consult a medical doctor prior to embarking on lifestyle changes.

"Small businesses in the United States and across the globe are being disproportionately impacted during these difficult times. We want Facebook to stop censoring us and allow our ads to run. We created an amazing seasoning that goes on all foods and want the world to enjoy it as we know Nana Makes Everything Better!" says Williams.

About Nana's All Purpose Alkaline Seasoning

Nana's All Purpose Alkaline Seasoning is a premium Himalayan Salt based alkaline food spice blend that actuates and accents the natural flavor profile of proteins, vegetables, fruits, and snacks. The seasoning is owned and distributed by Changing The World Foods, LLC. Visit https://nanaseasoning.com/ for more information.

About Changing The World Foods, LLC

Changing The World Foods, LLC is a consumer packaged goods company headquartered in Chicago, Illinois. The company owns and distributes Nana's All Purpose Alkaline Seasoning. Visit https://www.ctwfoods.com/ for more information.

Media Contact
Rasheed Williams
Changing The World Foods, LLC
312-566-8476
Rasheed.Williams@ctwfoods.com

IMAGE LINK FOR MEDIA: https://www.Send2Press.com/300dpi/21-0202s2p-nanas-300dpi.jpg

Caption: Nana's All Purpose Alkaline Seasoning.

Nana's All Purpose Alkaline Seasoning, a premium Himalayan Salt based alkaline blend sold direct to consumers, at nanaseasoning.com, in an 8.4-ounce bottle is being "censored" by Facebook, says Changing The World Foods, LLC. Since October 27, 2020 Facebook has stopped this small business and others from placing paid advertisements.

Related link: https://nanaseasoning.com/

LeadingIT Launches New IT Support Strategies to Conform with Cybersecurity Predictions For 2021 And Beyond

CHICAGO, Ill. /ScoopCloud/ -- LeadingIT, a Chicagoland cybersecurity and IT support company, today refreshed their previously launched cybersecurity measures to help its clients curb the increasing menace of cyberattacks. The launch comes when internet usage and online networking rose to unprecedented levels following the stay-at-home orders and other COVID-19 containment measures.

Across the nation, many corporate employees lost jobs or went out of office confinements to work from home, the internet has been pretty busy. While the world may not experience a surge in new deaths or infections with the rollout of vaccines, the chaos witnessed online will not stop soon. Predictions are rife with new cybersecurity predictions for 2021 and afterward.

Being a leading IT company in the area (pun intended), LeadingIT has plans to help its old, new, and prospective clients develop mitigative measures for all the potential threats in 2021 and beyond. These plans were announced as the company celebrates a decade of providing fast + friendly IT support.

10th Anniversary of Provided Excellent Always Available Support

LeadingIT has been around for ten years now, which is no mean feat. The company works with institutions, religious organizations, corporates, businesses, nonprofits, and government entities to provide them with managed services in the information technologyand cybersecurity sectors.

"It is quite an achievement to be around for ten years now. Sincerely, the journey hasn't been a walk in the park. We pass our sincere gratitude to our partners, staff, and friends for supporting us through the journey," said Stephen Taylor, the CEO of LeadingIT, in acknowledgment of the company's decade-long service in IT support.

Stephen Taylor continued, "However, we won't let the 10-year celebrations deter us from focusing on the continued cybersecurity threats. Cybercriminals thrive where there is chaos. Thus, the chaos of 2020, together with upcoming events such as the Tokyo Olympics, will provide an opportunity for attackers to prey on your servers, data, and teams."

Specific Cybersecurity Predictions for 2021

According to a report by The University of Maryland, there is an average of 2,224 hacking attempts every day. That translates to an average of one attempted hack every 39 seconds. And with these predictions bound to continue, it signifies a worrying trend for 2021 and beyond.

Notable predictions include:
* Cyberattackers will try to gain access to systems via the over 300 billion passwords and usernames used globally.
* Systems, organizations, and individuals without Multi-Factor-Authorization will suffer security breaches.
* Attackers will continue to swarm RDPs and VPNs as the rise in the remote workforce continues.
* Home networks, computers, and servers will face a higher risk of attacks.
* 55% of enterprises will increase their IT support budgets, according to a Global Digital Trust Insights report.
* Identity management, network security, and messaging security will be the top areas that businesses will spend on.

Measures to Curb the Top Cyberattack Threats in 2021

LeadingIT is at the forefront of helping its clients conform to the latest IT and cybersecurity trends. Stephen Taylor said, "These threats our very real for all businesses but we've built a 7-layer cybersecurity "jacket" to prevent data breaches, ransomware, and forced downtime."

The company believes that ensuring best practices, advanced endpoint detection, two-factor authentication, cybersecurity education, and more will be key to keeping clients safe in 2021 and beyond.

About LeadingIT

LeadingIT offers 24/7, all-inclusive, fast, and friendly technology and cybersecurity support for nonprofits, manufacturers, schools, accounting firms, religious organizations, government, and law offices with 10-200 employees across the Chicagoland area.

MEDIA CONTACT
Stephen Taylor
Phone: 847-545-0714
Email: Stephen@GoLeadingIT.com

Sources:
https://www.scmagazine.com/home/research/video-300-billion-passwords-by-2020-report-predicts/

https://www.pwc.com/us/en/services/consulting/cybersecurity/library/global-digital-trust-insights.html

https://eng.umd.edu/news/story/study-hackers-attack-every-39-seconds

LeadingIT, a Chicagoland cybersecurity and IT support company, today refreshed their previously launched cybersecurity measures to help its clients curb the increasing menace of cyberattacks. The launch comes when internet usage and online networking rose to unprecedented levels following the stay-at-home orders and other COVID-19 containment measures.

Related link: https://www.goleadingit.com/

Cgaga Software Launches New Fotosifter for Fast Photo Organizing and Editing

CHICAGO, Ill. /ScoopCloud/ -- Cgaga Software, the professional audio-visual software provider, today officially unveiled the latest edition of Fotosifter which offers the easy and smart solution to manage and edit photos. It has made significant improvements on its performance and user experience comparing to the previous version.

With the face recognition technology, Fotosifter can automatically sort a large number of photos in a few minutes. There are four options to organize photos into categories: Face, Location, Time and Selection. Users can choose one or more options to start the photo organizing with one click. Particularly, the face recognition accuracy reaches 98%. In addition to the auto mode, users can tag photos, add favorites and give a rating to photos as they like. Furthermore, Fotosifter can detect and remove similar and duplicate photo with the advanced algorithm.

Photo editing is one highlight feature in Fotosifter. The Edit feature includes several tools like photo enhancement, decoration, and correction. Fotosifter allows users to easily modify and enhance pictures using new filters, red eye remover, crop, vignette, and etc. Besides, Fotosifter offers the slideshow maker which is simple and powerful. With one-click approaches, a slideshow video can be created with stickers and music.

Also, Fotosifter can help better manage photos on other devices: cameras, smart phones (Android phone, iPhone, Windows phone, etc.), tablets, HDDs, SSDs, disks, USB flash drives, and more. Users can import their photos from these devices by connecting to the computer and organize them on the PC quickly.

"Fotosifter is a family-friendly software which is also a perfect choice for family members, photography beginners, office workers, travel lovers, teachers, students, and more," said Cici Chen, Director at Cgaga Software. "It's a light and handy tool using frontier technology to help a wide range of people dealing with masses of their photos. Fotosifter can save users a lot of time and energy on photo management and enhancement."

Now, Fotosifter is on sale for Christmas. The lifetime edition enjoys free lifetime upgrades.

To learn more, please visit: https://www.c-gaga.com

ABOUT FOTOSIFTER

Fotosifter is a professional and easy-to-use photo organizing as well as picture editing tool running on Windows 10, 8.1, 8, 7. It provides users with a total solution for mass photo management and picture enhancement using advanced algorithms as well as frontier techs including precise facial recognition, AI, and machine learning. Fotosifter mainly features smart photo organizing, photo editing, slideshow making, and more.

Learn more: https://www.c-gaga.com/pages/fotosifter-plans-and-prices

ABOUT CGAGA SOFTWARE

Cgaga Software is an innovative and energetic software provider, which currently focuses on photo managing and image processing. We use 3D LUT, accurate facial recognition, machine learning, and other cutting-edge technologies to ensure simple but powerful solutions for our users. In the near future, CGAGA will expand the business line to short videos, stream processing along with the audio processing fields.

Cgaga Software, the professional audio-visual software provider, today officially unveiled the latest edition of Fotosifter which offers the easy and smart solution to manage and edit photos. It has made significant improvements on its performance and user experience comparing to the previous version.

Related link: https://www.c-gaga.com/

LeadingIT Announces Year-End Plans and Looks Forward to A Strong 2021

CHICAGO, Ill. /ScoopCloud/ -- LeadingIT, a cybersecurity and technology support company in the Chicagoland area, outlines the plans for its team and clients for the end of the year, as well as the strategy it has to grow in 2021.

2020 has brought unprecedented changes to the business world and changed how many companies in the world run their operations due to the coronavirus pandemic. Many people now work remotely, and, according to Global Workplace Analytics estimates, 25 to 30 percent of the workforce will continue to work from home on multiple days of the week (*note 1).

As an IT support and cybersecurity provider, LeadingIT took a leading role in ensuring that its clients' employees could work from home efficiently and effectively, accessing cloud resources and corporate networks securely through two-factor authentication.

LeadingIT Puts Team's Welfare At The Forefront Of Everything It Does

Without an expert team of IT professionals focused on helping clients mitigate risk and putting business continuity plans in place, many businesses would have shut down or been unable to support remote work on such a massive and immediate scale. Their knowledge and expertise have been key reasons why LeadingIT continues to grow during the current uncertain business environment.

Recognizing this, the Chicagoland IT support and cybersecurity provider introduced several team benefits, including:
* Having paid time off as a critical part of the benefit policy
* Flexible work hours, where employees can leave early or arrive late and make up the time later
* End-of-year bonuses
* Company-funded healthcare plan covering life, dental, vision, and medical
* The ability for the team to work remotely from anywhere

LeadingIT In The Community

LeadingIT prides itself on being an integral part of the community in which the company operates. Recognizing the need for quality healthcare for children in disadvantaged neighborhoods, the company teamed up with the fundraising organization, Extra Life, to help treat injured or sick children and spread some cheer to their families during a difficult period (*note 2).

Every year, the LeadingIT team sets fundraising targets then invites donors to sponsor marathon gaming sessions organized by Extra Life. If you're looking to participate in the charity, the end of the year is a great time to do so and help brighten up the holidays for children in need. Head to Extra-Life.org to learn more about the cause.

Looking Forward To 2021

2020 has brought on new challenges, and businesses must find innovative ways to offer great experiences for their clients and team, to avoid losing out to their competitors and the virus. As quoted by Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella, the tech giant has seen "two years of digital transformation within two months" (*note 3). LeadingIT plans to play a significant role in ensuring businesses continue to operate seamlessly in 2021.

Stephen Taylor, Leading IT's CEO, says, "Over the past year, we have seen a large demand for cybersecurity, cloud support, and fast and friendly technology support that offer immediate and measurable results as businesses spend large amounts of money to move toward a digital mode of working."

He expresses his pleasure that LeadingIT was able to retain its team at a time characterized by unprecedented uncertainty. Given the essential role that managed service providers like LeadingIT expect to play in the ongoing digital transformation, the firm wants to add more experts to its team in 2021.

"We're focusing on really expanding our organization by hiring new team members and through strategic acquisitions in the new year," adds Stephen Taylor. He also believes that 2021 will be a new year for everyone, including the IT support and cybersecurity industry. As people and businesses adapt to the new way of working, it could be the start of a refreshing new beginning for the technology industry.

About LeadingIT

LeadingIT offers 24/7, all-inclusive, fast, and friendly technology and cybersecurity support for nonprofits, manufacturers, schools, accounting firms, religious organizations, government, and law offices with 10-200 employees across the Chicagoland area.

MEDIA CONTACT
Stephen Taylor
Phone: 847-545-0714
Email: Stephen@GoLeadingIT.com

Notes:
1: https://globalworkplaceanalytics.com/work-at-home-after-covid-19-our-forecast
2: https://www.send2press.com/wire/leadingit-teams-up-with-extra-life-to-raise-money-for-sick-children/
3: https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/microsoft-365/blog/2020/04/30/2-years-digital-transformation-2-months/

LeadingIT, a cybersecurity and technology support company in the Chicagoland area, outlines the plans for its team and clients for the end of the year, as well as the strategy it has to grow in 2021.

Related link: https://www.goleadingit.com/

Take the PLANETXXI Challenge: Create the Eco City of the Future

CHICAGO, Ill. /ScoopCloud/ -- As we zoom into the future in 2021, we see first-hand that the universe is filled with limitless opportunities. Space greats are busy with plans to build Mars City, creating orbital sci-fi habitats in space and adding finishing touches on luxury spaceships for galactic-go-getters. There's a real competition in the "race for space," and Sandra Snowden, aka Celestina, Ambassador PLANETXXI, has just entered the race with plans of her own to create The Eco City of the Future on PLANETXXI. And, now she's inviting a new generation of futurists and visionaries of all ages to compete.

Celestina's newly-launched website, http://www.planetxxitv.com/, encourages futurists to sign on as virtual cybernauts who can then travel into cyberspace to the planet's space station in CyberCity. Through virtual events, and cyber connections, they can design the blueprint and masterplan for their future on PLANETXXI.

Located in the Goldilocks Galaxy, PLANETXXI is an exoplanet in the Circumstellar Habitable Zone (CHZ). It's a planet of peace and positivity and a place where dreams for the future can come true. It's also Earth's mirror planet.

"Exoplanets are real," Celestina says. "NASA's first exoplanet was discovered in 1995 and a recent study at the Carl Sager Institute revealed that exoplanets have the best odds for extraterrestrial life to exist."

Celestina believes that this is the ideal time in history for people to ignite their cosmic powers and create the Eco City of the Future on PLANETXXI.

"Space is the new frontier and if we work together as space pioneers in the 21st century, nothing is impossible," she says.

So, while many on Earth are having to stay safe at home, futurists and visionaries can join forces and unleash their imagination and innovations through video and share them with the world to see.

For 20 years, humanity has found discovery and lived-in space at the International Space Station (ISS), so the sky has no limits.

"I also agree with scientists that Earth may even cease to exist by 2100 unless there are immediate changes to its unhealthy environment," Celestina adds.

The PLANETXXI website includes Celestina's Celestial Greeting and Welcome to the Future, Think Tank of Tomorrow, Vision Quest for Futurists and the Cyber Challenge: Create the Eco City of the Future on PLANETXXI. In addition, her upcoming YouTube PLANETXXI TV Show, Show Celestina Live From PLANETXXI, will feature weekly futurists and visionaries who will discuss how people can build a whole new, eco-friendly world.

Schools are also invited to join and be part of PLANETXXI Cyber Schools of the Future, and Club PLANETXXI. Cosmic Kids of the Future will introduce Cyber Pal cartoon characters to inspire kids, and even invite them to fly on Star Rider through the galaxy and reach for the stars. The website is in compliance with COPPA (Children's Online Privacy Protection Act.)

"Time to fasten your seatbelts. We are ready to launch," Celestina says. "What role will you play in our future?"

Celestina is available for interviews from CyberCity, her orbital space station and communications center at Celestina@PLANETXXI.com or (312)953-3108.

For more information, visit: http://www.planetxxitv.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PLANETxxi-104345174620968

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCVvy5ZVXznf3pID6bY4xOaQ

MULTIMEDIA:

*VIDEO (YouTube): https://youtu.be/7u-AiR_aYOU

*Photo link for media: https://www.Send2Press.com/300dpi/20-1208s2p-celestina-300dpi.jpg

*Photo Caption: Celestina, Ambassador, PLANETXXI.

As we zoom into the future in 2021, we see first-hand that the universe is filled with limitless opportunities. There's a real competition in the "race for space," and Sandra Snowden, aka Celestina, Ambassador PLANETXXI, has just entered the race with plans of her own to create The Eco City of the Future on PLANETXXI.

Related link: http://www.planetxxitv.com/

Aaron Ozee Considers Eight Figure Acquisition Offer for Regulus Literary Empire

CHICAGO, Ill. /ScoopCloud/ -- Aaron Ozee, celebrity author of the bestselling children's book, "Regulus" (ISBN: 978-1387010790), and revered director of the "Regulus" movie, has received an eight-figure acquisition offer from a private investment group for the literary empire constructed around his infamous rat king character.

Ozee started developing the story that became "Regulus" halfway through 2017 while attending the College of DuPage within the first years of his college education and launched what became an international phenomenon with the largest self-publishing house in the world, Lulu Press Inc, that very summer on July 23, 2017. Little did Ozee know what his creation would spawn during the years that followed, but what transpired escalated his work, and his name, into legend.

Once "Regulus" hit bookshelves worldwide, it was only two weeks later that Amazon, being the largest bookseller on Earth, ranked this lauded tale as the #1 New Release for Children's Books. Media across the United States, and soon the world, spoke about Ozee with such high regard as the skies made way for something that only few authors have experienced in their lifetimes.

Original artwork, folk songs, street murals, branded merchandise, sculptures, video games, plush toys, and even face masks for the COVID-19 pandemic were produced by numerous creators and partnered sources in admiration for "Regulus". Ozee sent copies of his marvel of a book to many prominent world leaders such as Justin Trudeau, Angela Merkel, and Emmanuel Macron. To his surprise, Ozee was delighted with personal responses from each congratulating him on what the fruits of his labor meant for the future of youth everywhere.

Ozee has collaborated with prominent restaurant chains and popular consumer brands such as Epic Burger, Jarritos, City Barbecue, Crystal Geyser Spring Water, Eli's Cheesecake, and Lou Malnati's Pizza glorifying the relationship between "Regulus" and his treasure hoard of cheese. Ozee has amassed millions of subscribers and followers on his social media and digital profiles through forming associations with innumerable artistic connoisseurs across the Internet.

Ozee even went as far as to send a physical copy of his cherished fable into space making it the First American Children's Book and First Self-Published Book Sent Into Space. Ozee continued this unorthodox campaign upon sending "Regulus" to several rare locations such as Mt. Everest, Chernobyl, North Korean DMZ, Bermuda Triangle, and the Galapagos Islands.

It was not much long after that Ozee sold the "Regulus" film rights to Bizarros Studio for adaptation into a stop motion animated picture that debuted exclusively on Amazon Prime in March 2020.

Celebrated actors, musicians, influencers, athletes, comedians, motivational speakers, and even political candidates respected in most family households continue to endorse "Regulus" as Ozee aims to make his dreams come true. One uncommon fact is that Ozee is only 24 years old and is on the brink of making history in the realm of the written universe.

"This has to be the proudest moment for my career. The world must understand this is not the end of a long journey but is a beautiful start to something exceptionally special," remarked Ozee during this announcement.

For those wanting to purchase a copy of the "Regulus" (ISBN: 978-1387010790) book, please visit https://www.aaronozee.com.

For those wanting to stream the Regulus movie on Amazon Prime, you will need to register for your membership or visit https://www.regulusmovie.com.

Media Contact
Name: Aaron Ozee
Phone: 630-656-0323
Email: lumidrone@yahoo.com

*VIDEO (YouTube) - https://youtu.be/hDGdE5M-ebc

Aaron Ozee, celebrity author of the bestselling children's book, "Regulus" (ISBN: 978-1387010790), and revered director of the "Regulus" movie, has received an eight-figure acquisition offer from a private investment group for the literary empire constructed around his infamous rat king character.

Related link: http://www.aaronozee.com/

PCS International selected by RSM Computer Services as exclusive provider

CHICAGO, Ill. /ScoopCloud/ -- PCS International (PCS), a Chicagoland based technology service provider, is excited to announce that it has been named the exclusive provider to all clients of RSM Computer Services (RSM) for technology service, support, and maintenance services.

RSM customers will also have immediate direct access to the PCS sister companies: PCS Cloud Solutions and Business CyberSecurity Solutions, allowing them a one-stop shopping experience for all their technology needs.

"PCS International is thrilled to be selected to help Bob Biegon and RSM to support their customers as he moves towards a well-deserved retirement. We can leverage our experience in the business world to help their customers with a wide range of technology solutions," said Ron Searle, President and founder of PCS International.

"I can't imagine a better fit - definitely a Win - Win for my clients and friends!" said Bob Biegon, President and founder of RSM Computer Services.

To learn more visit https://www.pcsintl.com/rsm

About PCS International:

With locations both downtown and the Chicagoland suburbs, they have 34 years of experience supporting the technology needs of companies of all sizes and industries across Northeastern Illinois.

During COVID-19, PCS International has been well positioned to help our clients adjust to the rapidly changing technology landscape that a decentralized workforce brings, including the challenges that come with networks, cloud hosting, and cyber security. Additionally, we have been assisting many private schools with the move to effective and engaging remote learning models.

Further Contact:
Ron Searle, President
rks@pcsintl.com
847-348-3900

Locations:
* 1608 W Colonial Parkway, Inverness IL 60067
* 500 North Dearborn, Suite 705, Chicago IL 60654

PCS International (PCS), a Chicagoland based technology service provider, is excited to announce that it has been named the exclusive provider to all clients of RSM Computer Services (RSM) for technology service, support, and maintenance services.

Related link: https://www.pcsintl.com/