The idea of the institutional crypto trading platform marks a dramatic change in how people see cryptocurrencies. Digital assets are no longer only for IT geeks and small-time investors; some institutional players looking to gain exposure to this emerging asset class are becoming interested in and confident in them. A hallmark of the crypto market’s maturing is the rise of specialized platforms targeted at institutions, which can offer stability and credibility where it was previously missing.

Institutional crypto trading platforms are distinguished by their focus on regulatory adherence and compliance. Understanding that clear rules are essential to encouraging institutional involvement, these platforms place a high value on strong compliance frameworks that guarantee compliance with know-your-customer and anti-money laundering laws. Institutional crypto trading platforms provide an environment that is favorable for institutional adoption by reducing the risks associated with criminal operations and boosting investor trust via the implementation of strict compliance standards.

Moreover, a wide range of financial services and products catered to the requirements of institutional investors are provided by institutional cryptocurrency trading platforms. These platforms offer an extensive range of financial instruments, ranging from futures contracts and spot trading to options and derivatives. This allows institutions to efficiently control risk and execute sophisticated trading strategies. In addition, a lot of platforms serve institutional clients with high transaction volumes and particular liquidity needs by providing over-the-counter trading desks.

For institutional investors, liquidity is still another important factor, and institutional crypto trading platforms shine in this area. These platforms provide deep order books and tight spreads by combining liquidity from many sources, including as exchanges, market makers and institutional counterparties. This makes it easier to execute big orders smoothly and with little to no price slippage. A sturdy liquidity infrastructure is essential for institutions that want to join and exit the market with little disruption, which makes institutional crypto trading platforms more appealing and efficient.

In the world of cryptocurrencies, security is crucial, especially for institutional investors who are tasked with overseeing large sums of money. Modern security methods, such as multisignature wallets, cold storage options and thorough auditing procedures, are used by institutional cryptocurrency trading platforms to secure customer money from online attacks. These platforms reduce worries about the safety of digital assets stored on the platform and foster confidence among institutional investors by prioritizing security and resilience.

Institutional investors now have the means, the know-how and the trust to engage with the digital asset ecosystem thanks to institutional crypto trading platforms, which are a significant driver behind the mainstream adoption of cryptocurrencies. By focusing on security, liquidity and compliance, these platforms could provide reliable entry points into the world of digital assets, connecting the dots between traditional finance and the rapidly expanding cryptocurrency market. The role of institutional crypto trading platforms could be important as institutional interest grows, influencing the direction of finance in the digital era.

If you’re considering any kind of investment, always consult a trusted professional financial advisor before getting started.

The news and editorial staffs of the Chicago Tribune had no role in this post’s preparation.

Referee decisions can have a significant impact on the outcome of a game, yet they are often analyzed far less than player performance or team statistics. The Daily Ref seeks to change that by bringing referee statistics a larger part of the sports betting analysis conversation. With data sourced from a variety of professional sports leagues and meticulously compiled by their team of experts, this blog offers insights that you won’t find anywhere else.

The Daily Ref focuses on a specific referee or group of referees, highlighting key statistics and trends that may influence the outcome of upcoming games that day and beyond. From foul tendencies to penalty calling rates, their analysis covers it all, giving bettors a comprehensive view of how referees are impacting the games they wager on. You can expect to find over 30 stat lines that are game and team specific according to three-, five- and 10-year data samples. Ref stats can be based on specific lines for the game as well like the spread, moneyline and over/under (O/U).

The Daily Ref is also a platform for discussion and debate within the betting community. Its interactive daily blog allows bettors to share their own insights and observations, fostering a community of passionate sports enthusiasts who are committed to uncovering the truth behind referee influence.

So if you’re ready to take your sports betting game to the next level, look no further than Insider Edge Analytics and The Daily Ref. Check them out and gain access to insights that could change the way you approach sports betting forever.

The news and editorial staffs of the Chicago Tribune had no role in this post’s preparation.

A New Era of Training Tailored to You

The one-size-fits-all approach to marathon training is a relic of the past. Twaiv introduces a new paradigm where training plans can be dynamically adapted with the help of their “virtual coach” based on your performance, and life changes. This personalized methodology not only enhances your physical preparedness but also safeguards against the common pitfalls of overtraining and injury.

Science at the Heart of Your Training

Crafted by Jung, each plan is rooted in the latest sports science. Twaiv’s methodology is designed to optimize your training by considering your current running habits, physiological feedback, and even your lifestyle factors outside of running, such as stress and working hours This holistic view of training acknowledges that peak performance is the result of harmonizing all aspects of your life.

From First Steps to Fast Paces: A Plan for Every Runner

Twaiv demystifies the process of selecting the right training plan with a straightforward classification system. Whether you are just starting out or are a seasoned marathoner, there is a plan for you:

• Newbies: Tailored for those new to running, focusing on building a stable base.

• Beginners: For casual runners, aiming to “complete” the half marathon.

• Hobby: Designed for regular runners to finish around two hours.

• Intermediates: For those with more experience looking to finish around 1:45.

• Advanced: For dedicated runners aiming for a finish time around 1:30.

• Pro: Targeted at elite athletes striving for a finish time around 1:20.

Adapting to Life’s Ups and Downs

One of Twaiv’s standout features is its adaptability. Static plans falter because life rarely unfolds as expected. Twaiv’s dynamic training schedules flex with your life’s realities, accommodating unexpected events and ensuring you stay on track toward your goal. This adaptability means you’re more likely to stick with your plan and reach your training targets.

Comprehensive Support for Your Half Marathon Journey

Beyond the adaptive training plans, Twaiv offers a wealth of features designed to support your training journey:

• Motivational milestones: Setting and achieving interim goals keeps motivation high and provides a sense of progress.

• Expert insights: Explaining the purpose behind each training session helps runners understand how they are building towards their half marathon goal.

• Custom pacing strategies: Individual pacing for every run ensures you’re training at the right intensity to maximize improvement without risking overuse.

• Plan flexibility: Accommodates interruptions, ensuring that a missed session doesn’t derail your entire plan.

• Fallback strategies: A “Plan B” for when life throws a curveball, ensuring you can adapt your goals without losing momentum.

Embark on Your Half Marathon Journey with Confidence

With Twaiv, you’re not just downloading an app; you’re gaining a comprehensive training partner. From personalized plans developed with scientific expertise to a supportive community of fellow runners, Twaiv can equip you with everything you need to succeed. Whether you’re at the start line of your first half marathon or pushing for a new personal best, Twaiv is there to ensure your training is as rewarding as the race day itself.

Prepare to meet your goals with confidence, supported by the innovation and community at the heart of Twaiv. Your journey to the half marathon finish line, transformed.

The news and editorial staffs of the Chicago Tribune had no role in this post’s preparation.

Elite Gaming has emerged as a trusted provider of slot machine entertainment. It was founded in 2018 and has since become the fastest licensed terminal operator in Illinois. Dedicated to responsible gaming, the company has earned a reputation as the go-to destination for those seeking slot machine entertainment solutions.

Elite Gaming offers efficient services and tailored strategies to help businesses succeed in a competitive market. It prides itself on providing the latest machines for its clients’ locations, ensuring they’re always equipped with the most up-to-date technology. The company partners with industry-leading manufacturers to guarantee exceptional quality and performance. These manufacturers have established themselves as pioneers in the gaming industry and have a track record of delivering solutions that enhance the gaming experience for players worldwide.

Elite Gaming’s commitment to customer satisfaction extends to its round-the-clock machine repair services. It has a team of in-house technicians with over a decade of experience who prioritize minimizing downtime. The innovative company also has a compliance team that handles all licensing needs so businesses can navigate complex legalities to ensure uninterrupted business operations.

“We understand that adding slot machines in establishments can be challenging, especially given that small business owners need to go through multiple processes, from licensing to installation. That’s why we’re here. We take the burden off their shoulders so they can just focus on running their business,” states owner Tony Kizhakkekuttu.

Because Elite Gaming is invested in its clients’ success every step of the way, it delivers marketing services led by a team of professionals who create tailored campaigns that target their specific demographics. This offering maximizes clientele’s returns on investment (ROI).

At the same time, it offers a custom loyalty program. Here, Elite Gaming helps its clients retain and reward their most valuable customers. This approach will aid them in differentiating themselves from the competition and establishing lasting relationships with patrons.

It’s worth noting that it’s not only premier gaming terminals that the company provides. It also offers various entertainment options (e.g., dart boards, leagues, jukeboxes, and pool tables) to enhance establishments’ ambiance and diversify their amusement offerings. In other words, Elite Gaming does everything to elevate its clients’ entertainment offerings so their customers come back for more.

Elite Gaming, therefore, stands out for maximizing the revenue potential of its partners. The industry average hovers around $8,000 a month or $100,000 a year in generated revenue from gaming. However, Elite Gaming’s average hovers around $14,000 a month, generating over $168,000 a year. Highlighting how businesses choosing Elite Gaming see themselves becoming a top earner within their municipalities thanks to its approach and methods for boosting financial growth.

An owner of a liquor store attests to Elite Gaming’s exceptional service and dedication to client satisfaction. He says, “Elite Gaming has handled all the heavy lifting for us. They helped us get all the licensing and paperwork in order and get all the machines up and running. I haven’t had to worry about anything since signing with them.”

A proprietor of a cafe and bar shares a similar sentiment and commends the company for being reliable. He thanks Elite Gaming for its prompt support whenever technical issues arise and states, “Their technicians do everything they can to solve the issue as quickly as possible. When they work, you can tell they are genuinely putting the effort into it.” These testimonials showcase the company’s passion for fulfilling its mission of empowering small business owners to pursue revenue growth opportunities.

When asked about his plans for Elite Gaming’s future trajectory, Kizhakkekuttu answers, “I’m very excited about our prospects. We intend to expand within the next couple of years. We’re confident that as soon as the necessary approvals are in place, we’ll be ready to seize the opportunity and establish our footprint in various states across the U.S.”

The news and editorial staffs of the Chicago Tribune had no role in this post’s preparation.

According to youth development expert Maks Ezrin, who leads the mentoring organization Youth Prevention Mentors (YPM), self-efficacy creates a solid foundation for young adult success. He explains, “Self-efficacy is one of the most important skills a young person can cultivate. More specifically, self-efficacy is concerned with one’s ability to coordinate their skills to achieve a desired outcome, an occurrence we are seeing less and less within the younger demographic. This decline in self-efficacy has resulted in the somewhat antiquated term ‘failure to launch.’”

At YPM, Ezrin has designed a novel approach to helping young adults. By providing a mentoring service that is grounded in evidence-based practices and paired with premier clinicians, YPM has helped hundreds of adolescents and young adults globally to gain the skills required to overcome adversity and activate their potential. As Ezrin states, “Our mentors are not task-masters and drill sergeants, but are highly effective at establishing rapport and helping guide their mentees toward their potential.”

Cultivating youth self-efficacy

When it comes to cultivating self-efficacy, encouragement should be focused on a young person’s efforts above all else, Ezrin says. This is a core component of motivational interviewing, a technique used by all of YPM’s mentors. For instance, when a young person experiences a setback, it can seem like a sign of personal failure and potentially lead to self-loathing and self-doubt. Mentors help their mentees bypass this vicious cycle by navigating the turbulence of setbacks in real time and helping keep their mentees on a positive trajectory. By instilling an understanding that all self-improvement comes with challenges and obstacles, mentors help their mentees reframe cognitive barriers and avoid self-destructive tendencies.

Small achievements build lasting efficacy

“When young people directly overcome challenges through their own efforts and abilities, they build a strong belief in their capacity to replicate future successes. This is what is referred to as performance experience, and is one of the most powerful sources of increasing self-efficacy, ” Ezrin explains. At YPM, a young person’s mentor strategically facilitates conversations and experiences that are designed to enhance self-efficacy. Specifically, mentors work side by side with their mentees to help them learn how to turn their larger goals into daily and weekly steps that they can act upon. As these small wins accumulate, mentees get the satisfaction of achieving regular milestones whilst growing their inner confidence and resilience.

The difference between mentoring and therapy

According to Ezrin, “While traditional talk-therapy tends to be more focused on past events, mentoring is more oriented toward the future and how to get there.” Also, unlike therapists, mentors are at liberty to disclose their personal experiences to their mentees. By openly sharing their own winding journeys of turning setbacks into accomplishments, mentors build their mentees’ gain confidence in their own capacity to navigate adversities on the horizon. As Ezrin states, “Watching those further along the path respond to crises with skill and wisdom models for youth that obstacles are temporary rather than permanent. Similarly, self-efficacy beliefs can be impacted by our observations of others and the consequences of their behaviors only if we believe we are similar to the person we are observing.” Lastly, he adds, “Mentoring and therapy are symbiotic. We work with premier clinicians who provide quality clinical work, while our mentors provide experiential and real-time support. It’s never one or the other, both are key factors in coordinating lasting behavioral change.”

The future is theirs to shape

“Adolescents need to have a sense from their surrounding influences that they matter, that they belong, and that they can affect change around them,” concludes Ezrin. “By taking strategic steps to cultivate self-efficacy, we can help young adults ignite what  motivates them and help them discover the confidence required to achieve their potential.”

YPM is a global mentoring organization that specializes in working with youth ages 12 to 35. Youth mentoring can promote self-efficacy in real time, and YPM has a network of over 100 highly accredited and experienced mentors.

The news and editorial staffs of the Chicago Tribune had no role in this post’s preparation.

At the core of Cars for Kids’ mission is a sheer commitment to helping children across America build a better future. This mission is brought to life through a diverse range of programs designed to address the needs of at-risk youth. Among its efforts is the innovative Vehicle Donation Program, which is the organization’s flagship initiative. Through this program, Cars for Kids encourages individuals to donate their vehicles, which are then auctioned or recycled, with the proceeds directly funding programs for children. Beyond vehicle donations, Cars for Kids also leads impactful educational initiatives, partnering with local schools and educational institutions to provide resources, scholarships and support for children facing educational challenges.

Cars for Kids’ contributions to the community have earned widespread recognition. In 2023, the organization was honored with the GreatNonprofits of the Year 2023 Award for its exemplary service and impact in philanthropy. The organization also received the 2023 CANDID Platinum Seal of Transparency, further affirming its commitment to accountability and integrity in its operations. These awards highlight the organization’s dedication to supporting and improving the lives of children in need and serve as a source of inspiration for others in the nonprofit sector.

Cars for Kids offers a comprehensive array of products and services designed to meaningfully impact the lives of underprivileged children across America. Central to its offerings is providing grants and funding educational programs to empower underserved youth. Through strategic partnerships and collaborations, the organization channels resources towards initiatives that enhance access to education, scholarships and vital support services for children.

Since its establishment in 1992, Cars for Kids has touched the lives of thousands of individuals, providing vital resources, scholarships, and support to help children overcome educational challenges and pursue their dreams. In Texas alone, Cars for Kids has contributed millions of dollars to fund schools and educational programs, ultimately impacting over 171,800 lives since 1985. As Cars for Kids continues to expand its reach and deepen its impact, it remains committed to empowering at-risk youth and helping them build a brighter future.

One of its flagship initiatives is funding a network of 14 Texas charter schools in Fort Worth, Houston, Austin, Dallas and San Antonio. These tuition-free, open-enrollment public high schools provide students aged 14 to 21 with a second chance to earn their high school diploma, thereby offering a pathway to academic success and future opportunities. Moreover, Cars for Kids is dedicated to fostering a supportive environment that nurtures the academic and personal growth of each student, ensuring they receive the guidance and resources needed to thrive.

Cars for Kids is an example of the power of philanthropy and community-driven initiatives to impact the lives of youth positively. Despite facing challenges, the organization has continued to deliver and remained steadfast in its mission to empower children across America with the resources they need to build a brighter future. Through its innovative programs, strategic partnerships and commitment to accountability and integrity, Cars for Kids has touched the lives of many, leaving a mark on communities nationwide.

The news and editorial staffs of the Chicago Tribune had no role in this post’s preparation.

From intimate dining to barbequing with friends, outdoor living now rivals their indoor counterparts in comfort and design. With that, PERGOLUX introduces gazebos that blend sophistication with functionality. Their aluminum pergolas, which some people call gazebos, feature clean Scandinavian lines matched with customizable add-ons for year-round enjoyment. “We aim to make high-end outdoor living accessible,” says Tim Heneveld, managing director of PERGOLUX. “Our products bring elegance outside through quality materials and smart features.”

PERGOLUX shows this focus in their signature Skydance model. Its automated louver roof and integrated lighting transform a space into an open-air pavilion or fully covered space in seconds. PERGOLUX uses strong aluminum and tempered glass to create a durable and stylish multipurpose area. Their focus on quality and innovation is clear in all aspects of their design. PERGOLUX gazebos and pergolas have a stylish look and are made to last with low maintenance. They are a great addition to any outdoor space. Customers can change their structure to suit their needs, such as adding heating for cold weather or a variety of wall types.

In addition to their focus on design and functionality, PERGOLUX also prioritizes sustainability. Their pergolas are made from eco-friendly materials. They are designed to save energy. This helps reduce the environmental impact, which should be the standard for every company, especially those in the outdoor living industry. With a dedication to both style and sustainability, PERGOLUX is setting a new standard for luxury outdoor living spaces.

The expanding outdoor living market

Outdoor living continues its sharp upswing in popularity. Market researchers predict over 5% annual growth in the gazebo and pergola industry, reaching $5.6 billion globally by 2025.

Homeowners want to create more living space outside with a gazebo and pergola. They want to connect their indoor and outdoor areas seamlessly.

This desire is driving growth in this trend. With the increasing focus on wellness and spending time in nature, outdoor living spaces have become a key feature in American homes. PERGOLUX is at the forefront of this trend, offering innovative solutions that cater to the needs of today’s homeowners.

Customers know them for their top-notch and trendy outdoor living gazebos and pergolas and their strong emphasis on design excellence. The Sundream model shows how they make luxurious and practical outdoor spaces. As the outdoor living market continues to expand, PERGOLUX is poised to lead the way in providing high-end outdoor living options that are accessible to all.

Several factors drive this high demand:

• Multifunctional furniture and structures that enable year-round enjoyment of outdoor areas

• Technology integration for lighting, climate and ambiance control

• Sustainable, low-maintenance materials

Seamlessly blending these features, PERGOLUX aims to make extended outdoor living achievable for homeowners.

The PERGOLUX difference

Many gazebo and pergola providers focus solely on backyard installation. PERGOLUX designs products with the customer in mind, focusing on their experience. By prioritizing customer needs, PERGOLUX ensures that every outdoor living product is customized to meet homeowner desires.

From the initial research to the delivery, PERGOLUX works closely with their clients to create a personalized outdoor oasis that reflects their unique style and preferences. PERGOLUX is different from other outdoor living companies because they pay attention to details. This makes them a top choice for people who want an exceptional outdoor experience.

With a commitment to quality, innovation and customer satisfaction, PERGOLUX is setting the standard for luxury outdoor living solutions. PERGOLUX can help you create a cozy backyard or a luxurious outdoor space. They have the skills and options to make your vision a reality.

As Heneveld highlights, “We sweat the small stuff so customers won’t have to. Our goal is enjoying simple, stress-free outdoor living.”

This translates into details that set PERGOLUX apart:

• Carefully engineered parts and instructions for hassle-free DIY assembly

• Direct-to-consumer pricing that removes middleman markups

• Hands-on customer service and transparent order tracking

• A customizable range of finishes, dimensions and add-ons

By sweat(ing) the big and small details, PERGOLUX aims to make sophistication accessible.

Bright backyard horizons

PERGOLUX, a leader in outdoor living in Europe, is expanding its customer base in America starting in 2024. New strategic partnerships and integrated digital platforms signal bold ambitions stateside.

Heneveld says, “We are showing U.S. homeowners the joy of outdoor living with PERGOLUX.” Customers are excited — PERGOLUX has an average 4.85-star rating from over 800 reviews.

With forecasted growth in the outdoor living industry showing no signs of slowing, PERGOLUX seems poised to achieve its mission of bringing high-end outdoor elegance to backyards across America. Homeowners can make their outdoor spaces bigger and nicer with PERGOLUX, a sustainable option that looks good and works great.

Experience the PERGOLUX difference and elevate your outdoor living experience today.

The news and editorial staffs of the Chicago Tribune had no role in this post’s preparation.

Marking a significant departure from the norm, O’RTE Tequila has quickly carved out a niche among the discerning palates of the city’s residents. The brand distinguishes itself by its commitment to single-origin craftsmanship, carefully harvesting 100% blue agave from a new family-owned estate in Jalisco, Mexico, each year. This meticulous approach, based on a variety of factors, including climate, topography and soil composition, ensures that each sip delivers the authentic essence of the estate the tequila was born from.

O’RTE’s ascent in the tequila world is deeply rooted in the Brand House Group’s commitment to quality and tradition. Since its debut in 2023, O’RTE has set a new benchmark in the tequila category, captivating Chicagoans with a product that goes beyond the ordinary. This tequila offers an unparalleled experience, the result of an exhaustive production process that guarantees a purely additive-free spirit. Emblematic of its commitment to ”Real Tequila Excellence” — a notion so integral it’s embedded in the brand’s name — O’RTE has earned accolades, including being listed as one of The 10 Most Interesting Tequilas of 2023 by InsideHook.

Chicago’s bar scene and local tequila lovers are particularly enamored with O’RTE’s range of offerings. The Blanco, celebrated for its aromatic and herbal bouquet, features a rich tapestry of flavors including pineapple and citrus balanced with a hint of spice that underscores the quality of the agave. Meanwhile, the Reposado, with its inviting golden color, delights with notes of floral honey, pepper, mint, and the warm sweetness of vanilla, culminating in a luxurious finish characterized by vanilla and butterscotch.

The Añejo variant presents yet another layer of sophistication, combining tropical nuances with a gentle spiciness and the lush aroma of cooked agave. A whisper of vanilla adds complexity to this exquisite spirit, appealing to those seeking a refined tequila experience.

As O’RTE expands across the United States, its unique flavor profiles and commitment to tequila-making tradition have sparked significant demand, particularly in Chicago. The city has embraced O’RTE as an essential offering in bars, restaurants and nightlife spots, and it’s also available at premier retailers like Binny’s Beverage Depot, Moreno’s Liquors and many other independent wine and spirits stores. Poised to become an integral part of Chicago’s beverage culture, O’RTE is ideal for both casual sips and celebratory toasts.

Discover more and purchase O’RTE directly from the brand’s website at ORTETequila.com or find it on select online platforms, including Drizly and Instacart.

Pattie Cagney Sheehan is a Certified Mastectomy Fitter and the owner of Second Act Cancer Recovery Boutique in Chicago’s Lincoln Park neighborhood.

When you or someone you love hears “You have breast cancer” your first thought is, “We have to take care of this right now.”

You probably aren’t thinking about life after breast surgery. But once you have discussed your immediate needs with your medical team, a call to an Accredited Mastectomy Boutique can help you understand what comes next.

Speaking with a Certified Mastectomy Fitter prior to surgery can help you understand your options and make an informed decision about how to proceed after surgery. From off-the-shelf silicone breast forms to custom prostheses made by hand, there are multiple options that do not require additional surgery yet provide a look in which any woman can be confident no one will ever know, unless she tells them. And for women who choose reconstruction, there are products that will make that journey much easier as well.

Another little known fact is that private insurance, Medicare and Medicaid can help pay for breast forms and bras throughout a woman’s lifetime.

Your new “normal” is just a phone call, or email, away. Second Act Cancer Recovery Boutique will check your insurance coverage and make sure you have the necessary prescriptions. And, Second Act is the only American Board for Certification accredited cancer recovery boutique in Chicago, providing post breast surgery and compression garments, swimsuits, active wear, wigs, hats, scarves, and accessories. Second Act Cancer Recovery Boutique has been serving breast cancer patients and survivors from throughout the Chicagoland area since 2008. Located at 2768 North Lincoln Ave., in Chicago’s Lincoln Park neighborhood, Second Act works by appointment to give each woman the personalized attention she deserves. For more information, or an appointment, call 773-525-2228 or emailpattie@secondactchicago.com.

The news and editorial staffs of the Baltimore Sun had no role in this post’s preparation.

There was a student-organized walkout at Adlai E. Stevenson High School Thursday, where about 75 students gathered after third period on the football field, according to school officials. Police and administration officials locked down the campus, blocking all possible entrances to the campus in Lincolnshire during the demonstration.

A few students spoke at the start of the gathering, and that was followed by a 20-minute silent sit-in, according to Jaimie Oh, director of communications at the high school. The demonstration went off without incident, and students who missed class for the walkout will receive an unexcused absence, Oh said.

Counter-protesters gathered across the street from the public school. About 50 community members and some students gathered at the intersection of Palazzo Drive and Route 22, waving Israeli flags, and holding pictures of hostages and signs, one of which read: “Principals and faculty! Unable to control underage students! Allow support of terrorist ideas!”

At least one student left class to attend the counter-protest. Sean Vaysburg, a senior, said he participated because he wanted to stand up for what he believes in.

About eight miles northeast of Stevenson, 25 students at Lake Forest High School walked out of class at around 11:40 a.m. with messages supportive of Palestine, according to school officials. A counter-protest of about the same size was staged across the street, school officials said.

In a letter to the school community, Principal Erin Lenart said she had met with the students planning the event and was, “assured that this is about a peaceful resolution to the current conflict in Israel and Gaza, and it is not an expression for or against any particular religious group.”

“As a community school, I wholeheartedly welcome the many perspectives, beliefs, and opportunities our residents have offered,” Lenart said in the letter emailed Wednesday. “Some in our community have called this a teachable moment for our school. While that may be true, this might also be considered an opportunity for our entire community to grow and learn as one.”

Students from a few Chicago Public Schools walked out of classes Wednesday to protest the war in Gaza, first demonstrating in their schools and then marching to join the encampment at the University of Chicago.

Palestinian solidarity encampments have popped up at dozens of college campuses across the U.S. in recent weeks as the death toll climbs in the war in Gaza. Students are decrying violence against Palestinians, and calling upon their institutions to divest from weapons manufacturers and companies supporting Israel.

The death toll in Gaza has climbed to more than 34,500 Palestinians, according to the Associated Press, and another 2.3 million people have been displaced from their homes. If the Israel-Hamas war stopped today, it would take until 2040 to rebuild all the homes that have been destroyed in Gaza, according to a United Nations report released Thursday.

A third Lake County student-organized demonstration has been held at Warren Township High School in Gurnee, a suburb about 40 miles north of Chicago. According to school officials, about 70 students left class on the Almond campus at 10:30 a.m. Thursday in support of Palestine.

Superintendent Daniel Woestman said students who left class will receive an unexcused absence.

As students organize, campus responses have varied. Many colleges, including Columbia University in New York City, have called on law enforcement to snuff out demonstrations, leading to more than 1,000 arrests nationwide and, at times, physical confrontations between police and students.

In rare instances, schools have struck agreements with student protest leaders. At Northwestern University, organizers and school administration agreed to a plan to allow demonstrations to continue, while requiring the removal of tents and sound systems.

The private university in Evanston also agreed to fund two visiting Palestinian faculty members each year, and provide scholarships for five Palestinian undergraduates throughout their undergraduate careers. The school also agreed to provide and renovate a community building to be used as a gathering space for Middle Eastern, North African and Muslim students.

Demonstrations at Chicago-area college campuses, including the University of Chicago, DePaul University and more, have remained relatively subdued, with little to no police intervention, as hundreds of students demand their schools divest from Israel and weapons manufacturers.

chilles@chicagotribune.com

These two emerging designers stand out on the international stage with their unique perspectives and approaches. Their design pursuits are not only about formative innovation but more importantly, about innovation in content and concept. They recognize that true design foresees and addresses potential social challenges. Thus, their works have garnered multiple international awards, recognizing not only their design skills but also their ability to solve social problems.

“Pulse Pal: A Heart-Healthy Adventure for Kids!”, one of their representative works, aims to educate children about heart health through interactive and fun methods. This application combines challenges, educational content and interactive features, using bright colors and engaging animations to attract children, while also incorporating a parent participation feature, emphasizing the critical role of parents in cultivating healthy habits in their children.

The core of Pulse Pal’s design is to create a child-friendly digital health companion, a concept that runs through the entire design and development process. Feng and Liu understand that to make health education appealing and fun, it is essential to cleverly integrate elements of gamification, storytelling and interactive learning. Therefore, they designed a series of interactive health challenges and educational media libraries, all customized to suit children’s age characteristics while maintaining enough appeal. Moreover, Pulse Pal includes a parent participation feature, allowing parents to actively engage in their child’s health education process, learning and growing together with their child.

The design and implementation of Pulse Pal present a new model of education, making heart health education accessible and fun through digital means. This application has the potential to cultivate lifelong healthy habits in children, with a long-term impact that could be profound. By fostering habits of physical activity, healthy eating and mindfulness from a young age, Pulse Pal aims to reduce the risk of childhood obesity, heart disease, and other related conditions. Furthermore, the application seeks to alleviate the fear and anxiety often associated with health monitoring by engaging children in a fun and interactive way, transforming it into a positive and empowering experience.

Pulse Pal’s excellence in creation has won it the American Good Design Award, which is not only a mark of exceptional achievement for “Pulse Pal” and its creators but also an international recognition of their innovative spirit and design strength. The American Good Design Award, established in 1949, has become one of the oldest and most authoritative design awards globally. Founded by the Chicago Athenaeum Museum and the European Design Centre, it aims to identify and honor international design works that demonstrate innovation and excellence in new products and graphic design. Every year, it attracts designers, companies and institutions from over 30 countries and regions worldwide to compete, with submissions exceeding 1,000 entries across industrial design, environmental design, product design, packaging design, graphic design and other fields.

Moreover, the American Good Design Award’s judging process is rigorous, with all entries undergoing meticulous scrutiny by a jury of internationally renowned design experts, practitioners, and educators. Jury members ensure the fairness and professionalism of the judging process with their professional backgrounds and experience. The judging criteria focus not only on the innovation and aesthetic of the design but also on its practicality, sustainability, and positive impact on society and the environment.

Pulse Pal stood out from over 1,000 international entries through a strict selection process, signifying the global design community’s high recognition of the work, especially in terms of creativity, practicality and positive contribution to society. This adds a brilliant touch to the individual careers of Feng and Liu, and it strengthens the international impact of their works, proving that excellent design can transcend cultural and geographical boundaries and touch the hearts of a global audience. This recognition is an acknowledgment of their ability to improve people’s lives through design and lead societal progress.

Further, this award not only affirms the design concept and execution of Pulse Pal but also highlights Feng and Liu’s sense of social responsibility and mission as designers. By ingeniously combining health education with gamified learning through this application, they aim to cultivate children’s heart health habits while also involving parents in this educational process, thereby raising the whole society’s awareness of heart health. Such design not only reflects their pursuit of the social value of design but also showcases their ability to solve real problems and innovative thinking.

Looking ahead, the path in front of Feng and Liu is filled with possibilities. Winning the American Good Design Award is just one highlight of their journey, affirming their efforts thus far and setting a higher standard for their future explorations. With the success of the innovative design Pulse Pal, they have already shown that design can not only beautify the world but also change it, solve practical problems and improve the quality of life.

In the future, Feng and Liu will continue to explore how to integrate deep insights from social sciences into design to address more complex social issues. Their goal is not only to create designs that are visually appealing and functionally practical but to use design to trigger social change and inspire people to pursue a better lifestyle. They hope to continue playing a significant role in the international design field, inspiring future designers with their creativity and passion, encouraging them to practice boldly.

The news and editorial staffs of the Chicago Tribune had no role in this post’s preparation.