Chicago Weekend Citizen 11-23-2022

THE NNA AND NHS SCORES SUCCESS WITH THE FIRST SOUTH SHORE HOUSING FAIR

More than 400 South Shore residents attended the first South Shore Housing Fair, produced by the Neighborhood Network Alliance (NNA) in part nership with the Neighborhood Housing Services (NHS). The fair took place at The South Shore International Preparatory High School, located at 1955 E. 75th St.

Attendees were able to participate in a variety of seminars on homeownership, tenant’s rights, estate planning and to review the most recent study on South Shore housing data that was published by the University of Chicago in October of this year.

The Vendor’s Village featured community businesses and partners including Amalgamated Bank, Bank of America, CIC, Chicago Community Loans, Chicago Police Department, Liberty Bank, Provident Bank, the University of Chicago, and Verizon sharing their services and information with fair goers.

Highlights included a trolley tour to several historical sites and a selection of homes for purchase in the neighborhood.

“Those participating in the workshops and panels represent the full spectrum of this vibrant community’s residents,” said Anthony Simpkins, President, and CEO of Neighborhood Housing Services of Chicago. “I want our community orga nizations and neighborhood partners to continue the momentum and continue to make progress knowing we are here to help them in any way we can.” he added.

For more information about homeownership and tenant’s rights resources visit www.thenna.org and www.NHSChicago.org.

SIMMONS TAKES CONSTITUENT SERVICE REQUESTS IN BUDLONG WOODS

CHICAGO – With the intention to understand the concerns and needs of community members, and to proactively connect his constitu ents to state resources, State Senator Mike Simmons visited the Budlong Woods neighborhood recently knocking on doors and introducing residents to state resources and meeting those residents face-to-face.

“Meeting residents in-person, where they’re at, encourages them to voice their concerns and needs in an informal way,” said Simmons (D-Chi cago). “Engaging with the community in their neighborhoods helps to ensure they feel seen, heard, respected, and helped.”

During the day, Simmons addressed topics such as property taxes, commercial and residen tial development, recent gun violence, and small businesses. Simmons grew up in the Budlong Woods neighborhood and was able to connect with long-time residents as well as introduce himself to the new families along Farragut Avenue. He also handed out flyers with state-level resources includ ing services his district office offers.

“It was cathartic to meet with families one-onone this past weekend in Budlong Woods, which is located in Lincoln Square, the area where I grew up and where my family racially integrated the neighborhood in the early 1980s,” Simmons said. “As my team and I talked to our neighbors, many being long-time residents, I felt a sense of pride and responsibility in helping to lift up the needs of households in the area.”

If residents have questions about the next opportunity to meet him in the neighborhood, or would like information about local resources, Simmons urges them to contact his office at 773769-1717.

Black-owned small businesses to showcase their products at One of a Kind Show

Continued from page 1

BY TIA CAROL JONES

This year, One of a Kind is celebrating its 21st year. There are 500 artists and makers who are expected. There will be a number of Black Indigenous People of Color-owned businesses at this year’s event.

Cera Muchiri grew up in Kenya. She wanted to offer work to her community and give back to her community. She created Ecodunia in 2018. The business, which sells bags, aprons and wallets, sources its cotton and fabric from Kenya where everything is handmade and handcut.

As an African in America, she was frustrated that she would see goods that looked African, but weren’t made on the Continent.

“It’s such a beautiful Continent with so much beauty and vibrancy and all I see as a Kenyan living in America is all these things about how terrible Africa is, and how poor Africa is, and I’m not saying those things don’t exist, but there is so much beauty that is in the Continent and I wanted to bring some of that beauty,” Muchiri said.

Every product Ecodunia makes has a little bit of Af rica in it, mostly a piece of African fabric incorporated in the bag design. Muchiri wanted to see more African goods in the marketplace.

Muchiri had been doing craft fairs and she just moved with her partner from California to Chicago. She learned about One of a Kind from another product ven dor and decided to apply.

Jeremiah Shalo is an artist. Someone saw his art at Renegade Craft Fair and wanted him to participate in One of a Kind. Shalo will have his original prints, high quality giclee prints, postcards, block Lino carved

stamps, and shirts, which he has been working on.

“I’d been to One of a Kind a couple of years ago, and I just know it’s a really great opportunity for artists to break into the scene a little more. I thought One of a Kind would be a great stepping stone because I think it’s going to be one of the biggest so far,” Shalo said, adding that he wants to meet new artists, see some work and get his name out there.

Shalo’s work has been on beer cans for Goose Is land. Shalo’s family owns Kribi Coffee, located in Forest Park, Ill., and he does the illustration for the packaging.

Shanika Morette is the owner of . Karre Beauty. She launched the organic skincare company in August 2020. The company is named after a nickname given to her grandfather, which in Haitian Creole means to intimi date.

Morette has been making skincare since she was young, with her mother. During COVID, she started to make products and sell them. Karre Beauty products in clude the Sunrise Face Cleanser, Sunset Face Serum, Lip Gloss, Jelly Mask, Body Fluff, Body Lush and Stones Chebe Hair & Beard Oil.

The most popular product is the Petal Body Oil, which is also Morette’s favorite. Unlike other oils, it has oils that can penetrate the skin and it is not heavy. It also has a soothing scent.

This is Morette’s first foray doing vendor fairs outside of where she lives in Gainesville, Fla., but sees her business growing and blooming and wants to come to One of A Kind to reach out to other people.

For more information about One of a Kind, visit oneofakindshowchicago.com.

‘Stay Well HBCU Campus Tour’ aims to keep college students healthy this homecoming season

Milwaukee, Wis. – After two years of canceled events because of COVID-19, homecomings are back in-person at His torically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) across the country. To keep stu dents and alumni healthy as they celebrate, the “Stay Well HBCU Campus Tour,” host ed by the “We Can Do This” campaign, which recently released the “On Point” TV spot as seen on CNN, will visit campuses in multiple states.

“The COVID-19 pandemic has changed many things on and across HBCU campuses since 2020,” said Kenneth Wash ington, who serves as the sports marketing coordinator for the tour. “Most HBCU campuses’ response to the pandemic and vaccinations have been second to none, and as a result, HBCU campuses, events and gatherings are starting to become a norm again. The ‘Stay Well HBCU Cam pus Tour’ aims to amplify those efforts across campuses and HBCU communities we touch.”

Each tour stop will include a vaccina tion drive, interactive experiences, and fun rallies. Every stop will distribute HBCU prize packs, branded tailgate games and on-site information to inform the com

munity of the benefits of the COVID-19 Vaccine. Vaccinations remain the most effective measure in preventing serious COVID-19 cases, as they decrease the risk of hospitalization and reducing the emer gence of variants.

The “Stay Well HBCU Tour” will stop at several HBCU homecoming events this fall, including: SWAC Championship in Jackson, Miss. on Dec. 3 Celebration Bowl in Atlanta, Ga. on Dec. 17

The tour’s official brand partners, in addition to the HBCUs, include Twitter, AT&T and Champion sportswear. For more information, visit staywellcommunity healthfairs.org. You can also stay updated via Facebook and Instagram.

The “Stay Well Health Fair and Vaccine” events are designed to bring health-related resources to Black commu nities across the country. The “We Can Do This” campaign is partnering with local health agencies and community-basedor ganizations in select cities to continue educating Black communities and make vaccine resources more accessible.

For more information, visit staywell communityhealthfairs.org. Stay up-to-date by visiting Facebook and Instagram.

Pop-up tour will equip HBCU students and alumni with important information and access to COVID-19 vaccines.

GOOD HOPE FREE WILL BAPTIST CHURCH GIVES OUT 300 TURKEYS AND 500 HOT MEALS AT THANKSGIVING CELEBRATION

CHICAGO – On Saturday, Nov. 12, Good Hope Free Will Baptist Church, located at 525 S. California, hosted its annual Thanksgiving celebration, where church members and community volunteers gave out 300 frozen turkeys and served over 500 hot meals to com munity members. Attendees were able to pick up a frozen turkey for their own holiday celebrations, as well as enjoy a hot meal at the church. Throughout the day, church members and volunteers also delivered hot meals to those in need throughout East Garfield Park and neighboring communities, including those experiencing homelessness. Door Dash provided $3,000 for the purchase of both the frozen turkeys and the hot meals.

“We always look forward to our annual Thanksgiving celebration as a way to bring together our community for fellowship and good food, and we are grateful to DoorDash for helping to

make it a reality,” said Pastor Cornelius Parks of the Good Hope Free Will Bap tist Church. “Through our partnership, we were able to not only provide turkeys for our neighbors in need to enjoy during their own celebrations, but also meet them where they are with a warm meal. Everyone deserves to feel a sense of community, especially during the holiday season, and I hope we were able to accomplish that here today.”

DoorDash and the Good Hope Free Will Baptist Church have previously partnered on events to help build com munity, including Pastor Park’s annual Loveday celebration in February 2022, and a community Easter celebration with an Easter Egg Hunt last April.

“Pastor Parks and the Good Hope Free Will Baptist Church continue to demonstrate their commitment to build ing community and providing resources for vulnerable Chicagoans throughout the year,” said Alexi Madon, Govern

ment Relations Manager of DoorDash. “We’re proud to partner with them once again to bring a little joy to people this holiday season as part of our commit ment to supporting the organizations making a difference in their neighbor hoods.”

Through its community engagement programs, DoorDash has partnered with a wide variety of organizations in Chicago and the surrounding suburbs, including United Giving Hope, CHAMPS Male Mentoring, Greater Mt. Vernon Baptist Church, the Greater Englewood Cham ber of Commerce, Heartland Alliance’s NEON Program, John A. Hamline Elementary School, South Side YMCA, Ravenswood Elementary, Sarah’s Circle, TCA Health and more. DoorDash has donated over $3 million in gift cards through the Community Credits program to bolster local outreach and encourage community vaccination efforts to fight COVID-19 across the country.

Simmons holds People’s Legislative Council on gun violence

CHICAGO – In an effort to proactively connect with 7th Dis trict individuals affected by gun violence and shape future legisla tion, State Senator Mike Simmons held a People’s Legislative Coun cil on gun violence on Wednesday.

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“The purpose of People’s Legislative Councils is to connect with and listen to constituents who have a direct stake in policy decisions, and bring their voice into the legislative process,” said Simmons (D-Chicago). “We convened 7th District residents who are survivors of gun violence or have lost loved ones to gun violence, and we will lift up their experiences as we advocate for sensible gun laws.”

Simmons has and will con tinue to be aggressive on pursu ing gun control legislation, and strongly supports a ban on assault weapons and high-capacity maga zines at the state and federal level. He is a cosponsor of Senate Bill 2510, which would ban assault weapons in Illinois, and was chief cosponsor of House Bill 4383, a bill signed into law in April that requires all guns to be serialized. Simmons is also passionate about the need for federal legislation to crack down on illegal gun traffick ing into Illinois.

Past People’s Legislative Councils have been held with sev eral different constituent groups

including: single mothers, longterm residents, senior citizens, and high school students. Upcoming People’s Legislative Councils will address rights and resources for people living with disabilities, incarcerated individuals, people who are inadequately served by the health care system, and indi viduals experiencing homeless ness. These legislative councils have directly led to the creation of bills, including one recently signed into law which requires K-12 schools to instruct on how and where to find access to mental health. This legislation, SB4028, also creates the Student Mental Health Council, a diverse council of young adults tasked with iden tifying barriers to youth feeling supported and empowered by the existing mental health system.

“Action is needed at all levels of government to contain the gun violence epidemic and I am a strong supporter of passing sensi ble gun laws,” Simmons said. “I plan to build on my track record of fighting for and advancing sen sible gun legislation while center ing the advocacy of my constitu ents here in the 7th district.”

If residents have questions about the event or would like information about the next Peo ple’s Legislative Council meeting, Simmons urges them to contact his office at 773-769-1717.

POLITICAL AFFAIRS

JUSTICE40 INFRASTRUCTURE INITIATIVE

Resolution directs Cook County to seek available federal grants to furthering environmental justice and climate equity in Cook County

The Cook County Board of Commissioners unani mously passed a resolution championed by Commissioner Donna Miller of the 6th District aimed at affirming Cook County’s commitment to furthering the principles of the federal Justice40 Initiative and seeking all available resources to do so. The resolution unanimously passed out of committee prior to passage by the full Board. Justice40 is a whole-of-government effort to ensure that federal agencies work with states and localities to deliver at least 40 percent of the overall benefits from federal investments in climate and clean energy to disadvantaged communi ties. The resolution directs Cook County to advance health equity and climate justice in alignment with Justice40 by applying for federal grants made available by recently passed federal legislation.

“By empowering the Cook County government to seek all available federal resources to follow the Justice40 Initiative, we can work to address the pressing issues of health equity and climate justice facing our communi ties,” said Cook County Commissioner Donna Miller. “I am proud that the Board approved my resolution today, sending a strong message that fighting climate change and improving environmental justice are priorities, and that all work done in this space must be done in an equitable way. I look forward to collaborating with my colleagues to pursue climate resilient infrastructure development here in the Southland.”

The recently passed Infrastructure and Investment Jobs Act (IIJA) and Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) created multiple federal funding sources for counties to apply directly to the EPA, HHS and other agencies for grants for projects related to furthering Justice40-related initiatives.

Commissioner Miller’s resolution directs the County to adhere to procurement policies that regulate equitable participation of minority and women business enterprises in the execution of grant-related projects and requires a quarterly report from the Budget Director on grants received.

To build an equitable climate-resilient future for Cook County, reparative climate resilient infrastructure in vestments are necessary to close the infrastructure gap that has resulted from past policies, and to enable communities that have been subject to disinvestment, underinvestment, and marginalization to fully participate in and benefit from such development.

The foundation for this approach was laid in the Cook County Policy Roadmap, which has guided policy and investment priorities for the county budget, the Equity Fund, CARES Act funding, and American Rescue Plan Funding (ARPA) through its several pillars. The Sustainable Communities Pillar seeks to support healthy, resilient communities that thrive economically, socially, and environmentally and helps inform funding proposals for the Equity Fund and ARPA including by working and investing in environmental justice and sustainability by supporting projects spanning from community solar to comprehensive transit planning. The Smart Communities Pillar seeks to provide an innovative infrastructure that will change how we live, work, and connect through investments in transportation and water infrastructure, in addition to increasing access to electric vehicle charging stations throughout Cook County, focusing on where there are currently large gaps in service areas, primarily in the south and west suburbs, and investing in digital equity.

COOK COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS PASSES COMMISSIONER DONNA MILLER’S

This the season to save.

Eight tips to stretch your money this holiday shopping season.

Consumer purchasing power is more diverse than ever, with Black consumers as central drivers of seasonal spending. As you prepare your holiday shopping list – and your budget – remember, a little bit of planning can go a long way toward achieving a financially he althy holiday season.

With the holiday shopping season upon us, here are eight essential money-saving tips:

1Build a holiday budget – and stick to it.

There’s so much pressure during the holiday season to buy and it’s easy to spend more money than you planned. Download a budget worksheet (one is available free at Chase.com), which can help you create and manage your bud get to help you feel more in control and spend less than you earn. This is a useful tool to reference throughout the year and you can make adjustments as things change, like salary and bills.

2Open a dedicated savings account. You might consider opening a holiday-spe cific savings account to put money aside each week. Saving for later will help make a dif ference when it’s time to buy gifts for your loved ones.

3Explore your credit card offers. Many credit cards have special offers based on your previous purchases that can help save money on holiday gifts, while others give special cash back deals for online purchases. Take ad vantage of those discounts and be flexible. If you can’t find a good deal on the gift you originally planned to buy, see if any of the special offers you qualify for might appeal to someone on your list.

4Use credit responsibly. Credit cards are handy financial tools, as long as they’re used responsibly. Make sure you pay the balance each month by the due date to avoid interest charges or pay at least the minimum payment to avoid late fees. Resist the temptation to spend more than you can pay in any given month.

5Take advantage of digital tools. Digital banking and budgeting apps are useful and offer customers a great way to take control of their finances, allowing for a one-stop shop to see a holistic view of your current financial situation. From within the Chase Mobile app, customers can use a variety of

tools to help meet their goals while monitoring their spending and saving trends.

6

Take advantage of coupons and dis counts. Retailers have already started holiday sales and, of course, all of the popular discount days – Black Friday, Small Business Saturday and Cyber Monday – present opportunities to save. You can also use money-saving apps like RetailMeNot, Honey and Rakuten to get cash-back deals and discounts auto matically when you shop online.

7Cut back on other expenses. The holiday season is a good time to cut back on impulse shopping or frivolous spending. Cutting out those unnecessary expenditures will allow you to account for the season’s natural surge in discretionary spending.

8Sign up for credit monitoring. The holiday season is a particularly vulnerable time for credit card fraud. Millions of people fall victim to fraudulent activity every year, and scams are more frequent than ever. Make sure you monitor your credit score and identity with confidence and sign up to receive alerts from Chase’s Credit Journey.

Visit chase.com/financialgoals for more money-saving tips during the holiday shopping season and all year long.

Sponsored content from JPMorgan Chase.

Study.com’s Working Scholars® program has saved graduates $20m in tuition as student loan debt in the

MOUNTAIN VIEW, Calif., PRNewswire -- Study. com, one of the most transfor mational companies in edtech, announced the 2022 Working Scholars® graduating class. With over half of the graduates identifying as first-generation college students, this year’s graduation times with the Na tional First-Generation College Celebration.

The Working Scholars pro gram offers working adults the opportunity to earn a bachelor’s degree debt-free, at no-cost. With $20m saved collectively in tuition, the 2022 graduating class marks over 150 graduates since the program’s inception, underlining the importance of in creasing opportunities and access for first-generation and underrepresented students in higher education. A recent Working Scholars graduate survey indi cates that increased confidence and expanded career opportunities have been a significant impact of the

program.

“Working Scholars has helped me tremendously. The program allowed me to bal ance work, school, and family life, all while avoiding finan cial hardship,” said Emeline Hernandez, a first-generation college student and member of the 2022 Working Scholars graduating class. “My business degree has given me the confi dence to pursue career inter ests and advancement beyond what I thought was possible.”

Students in the Working Scholars program complete college credit-recommended courses on Study.com and then transfer the credits to complete their degree from Thomas Edison State University (TESU), a four-year accred ited state university. Working Scholars students are supported with academic advisors, degree mapping, transfer assistance, and counseling from the program’s success coaches. The non-profit currently serves six

communities throughout the Bay Area and Riverside County, focusing on underserved communities with low college degree attainment.

“Every year, I’m amazed by the accomplishments of the Working Scholars graduating class,” said Dana Bryson, SVP of Social Impact at Study.com. “The unique challenges and experiences each of these grad uates faced to earn their degree is remarkable, and I am proud of every graduate who crossed the stage this week.”

The Working Scholars graduates were honored in a virtual ceremony on November 10th. Graduation speakers included Katherine Archuleta, former Direc tor of the United States Office of Personnel Manage ment, and Dr. Cynthia Baum, VP of Academic Affairs and Provost from TESU.

Study.com is a leading online education platform providing academic support for learners and educa tors. Recognized on the GSV EdTech 150 as a leading EdTech company, Study.com simplifies learning for over 30 million learners and educators a month. Study has donated $27 million across social impact programs committed to Making Education Accessible through our Pledge 1% partnerships and programs focused on increasing access and equity in education for under served learners.

U.S. exceeds $1.7 trillion

Emeline Hernandez, member of the 2022 Work ing Scholars graduating class, earned a business degree through the program. PRNEWSFOTO.

Getty Images

A Record-Breaking Evening for Delivering Good Celebrating Leadership and Excellence in Fashion, Finance, and Beyond

NEW YORK, PRNewswire -- National nonprofit Delivering Good celebrated its annual fundraising event recently, raising a record-breaking $2.1M from sponsors and attendees including $203,000 from the auction and fund-a-need appeal. Over 500 guests were in attendance. The event was held at the historical Cipriani 42nd Street in New York City and highlight ed leadership and excellence in fashion, finance, and philanthropy with a program that focused on purpose, recognition, and entertainment!

The 2022 Evening of Delivering Good event opened with a roaring performance by The Brooklyn United Music and Arts Program, a youth marching band and dance line that was also the 2022 Grand Mar shal at the 49th NYC Village Halloween Parade just days prior. Delivering Good Board Member and Cre ative Director of HALSTON, Ken Downing, served as the host and emcee of the evening and enchanted the guests with thoughtful stories and several surprises throughout the night, including some special gifts for some guests in attendance.

Delivering Good’s Chair, and Founder and CEO of The O Alliance, Andrea Weiss, spoke to the audi ence about forming closer relationships with partners and supporters of the organization in the year ahead in order to better help those in need. Weiss was followed by the newly appointed CEO, Matthew Fasciano who noted the group’s work and influence in the larger community.

The program continued with Harry Santa-Olalla who led an appeal to fund a variety of needs for the organization including its core mission of providing new merchandise for families and individuals in need and a spirited auction that included a once-in a lifetime Dallas Cowboys gameday experience that went for $20,000 and a week’s stay at the exclusive Casa Sybil in the Dominican Republic that went for $10,000. The audience also heard directly from several clients and partners of Delivering Good who shared their emotion al stories of challenges and perseverance.

The dinner service followed and was accompa nied by yet another incredible musical performance, this one by the crossover quartet, Sons of Serendip. Awards and acceptance speeches came after

the dinner break. First up was the Innovation Award given to Tackle Tomorrow by Ted Uzelac, President of Fischer, and accepted by Charles Haley, President, and Clifford Fischer, Board Chairman. In his acceptance speech, Fischer remarked on an encounter with Andrea Weiss that led to the idea of a toy store project, which has improved student reading in respective schools from 30% at grade level to an astounding 80% at grade level or higher.

Haley followed by sharing his personal struggles with reading and thanking Delivering Good for help ing Tackle Tomorrow combat illiteracy through the donation of products for children in need.

Up next was the Vangaurd Award presented by Lew Frankfort, founder of Benvolio Group to Todd Kahn, the CEO and Brand President at Coach. In his acceptance speech, Kahn spoke about the fashion in dustry’s support of many causes with time and funding and how “Delivering Good uses our product and not just our money and influence to do good and change lives.”

The next honoree, Nicole Pullen Ross, Partner at Goldman Sachs and the NY Private Wealth Man agement Region Head, as well as Head of Sports & Entertainment Solutions, was presented with the Impact Award by John Mallory, the Co-Head of Global Private Wealth Management at Goldman Sachs. Ross thanked the organization for their “tireless efforts to help those during some of their most meaningful times of need” and spoke about the impact that one can make from a professional and personal standpoint.

The award presentation wrapped with the Life time Achievement Award going to Steven Sadove, Retired Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Saks Incorporated which was presented to him by Chris Baldwin, Managing Partner at CVC Capital Partners. Sadove gave a wonderful lookback on his many years in fashion and the vital work that Delivering Good has provided to the industry that he admires so much.

The event concluded with Ken Downing who was joined on stage by Joe Abruzzo, Delivering Good Board Member and Head of Commercial Banking at Santander. The two congratulated the honorees and made a final appeal for donations.

FOOT LOCKER KICKS OFF THE 2022 HOLIDAY SEASON WITH DEBUT OF STAR-STUDDED GLOBAL HOLIDAY CAMPAIGN

NEW YORK, PRNewswire -- Global retailer Foot Locker, part of Foot Locker, Inc. (NYSE: FL), unveiled the debut of its global Holiday 2022 campaign - Foot Locker Holiday House Party. Featuring a house party for sneaker fans around the world, all are welcomed to an epic event where no one is left off of the guestlist. Just as importantly, the campaign highlights why Foot Locker is and continues to be the sneaker home for the holidays and year-round.

The holiday campaign footage is filmed through a mobile-first approach, using only iPhone footage captured by the party’s attendees. In the footage, they reveal a series of events from the night while showcasing their go-to Foot Locker footwear and apparel. In addition to Foot Locker’s signature employees, better known as Stripers, the campaign features var ious talent from across the world including musicians BIA, Yung Gravy, and Lunay, along with notable online personalities Ye Ali, Ralph Romeo, Orange Calderon, Tamara Dhia, and more. Through their own lens, each featured talent documents the experience and shares how they celebrate all things sneakers with the “officials” of the sneaker world at Foot Locker.

“Foot Locker employees are iconic,” said campaign talent, Yung Gravy. “I had a blast getting to work with them on this project. I’m excited to jump into the holiday season and to do some good with the team.”

To bring the global campaign to life, Foot Locker will host a 24-hour global holiday celebration on December 16th. Kicking off in Asia, the celebration will continue over the course of 24 hours at Foot Locker stores in Seoul, Paris, New York and Los Angeles.

Foot Locker has a vast array of apparel and footwear product offer ings for kids, teens and adults that are quintessential this holiday season and beyond. Product offerings include Foot Locker’s major brands such as Nike, Jordan, adidas, PUMA, New Balance, On Running, HOKA, UGG and Timberland, private label brands LCKR and COZI, as well as local, up and coming brands that continue to be discovered within major markets across the globe through Foot Locker’s Home Grown platform.

“The Foot Locker team is excited to spread the holiday cheer this season and continue to be the premier destination for all consumers who are seeking the best in sneakers and apparel,” said Andrew Gray, Execu tive Vice President, Global Lockers and Champs Sports. “As a retailer, we are committed to delivering industry-leading products with go-to brands and exclusives that our customers love. Our trusted Foot Locker Stripers played a crucial role in our holiday campaign and we are so thankful for their involvement to bring this to life. We can’t wait for consumers to experience all of the surprises that we have in store this season.”

In tandem with the unveiling of this campaign, Foot Locker will continue to celebrate the holidays with its customers all season long with planned in-store celebrations and giveback moments at its stores globally. This includes “Secret Striper” giveback moments in Foot Locker stores across North America on Giving Tuesday.

For more information, visit www.footlocker.com.

2022 Honorees Clifford Fischer, Nicole Pullen Ross, Charles Haley, Todd Kahn, and Steve Sadove.

(PHOTO CREDIT CRAIG BARRITT FOR GETTY IMAGES)

PRNewsfoto/Foot Locker, Inc

11/11

Honoring those who serve 24/7

With over 200,000 veterans and service men and women reentering the workforce each year, Bank of America is supporting the unique needs of our heroes as they transition to civilian life and careers.

Some steps we’re taking to support veterans and military members:

• Offering free online resources through BetterMoneyHabits.com on topics specific to them, from home buying to retirement

• Expanding the number of financial centers near military installations to address the needs of military customers

• Continuing our hiring momentum — more than 15% of our new hires are military veterans

My teammates and I here in Chicago are proud to support our military service men and women, especially as we celebrate Veterans Day. Thank you for your service.

Sola Cook President, Bank of America Chicago

Rita

LEXUS JOINS FORCES WITH ADIDAS AND ADIDAS S.E.E.D TO CREATE A CUSTOM ALL-NEW LEXUS RX

PLANO, Texas, PRNewswire -Strength in unity unlocks new possibili ties. Lexus has unveiled what’s possible when the luxury automaker, adidas, adidas S.E.E.D, Calty Design Research and 3D printing company Carbon join forces. As a result, the all-new Lexus RX 500h F SPORT is transformed into an eye-catching crossover inspired by Marvel Studios’ “Black Panther: Wakanda Forever,” now playing only in theaters.

To help celebrate the recent launch of adidas’ “Wakanda Forever Col lection,” the team at adidas sought to bring their “Black Panther: Wakanda Forever”-inspired designs into the automotive space. Created for the best athletes in the world, this performance sportswear embodies what it means to be Wakandan and explores the question, “What if Wakanda had a national athletic team?” The vehicle wrap builds on the custom identity of the fiction al African nation as envisioned by adidas, creating an automotive identity that matches the fashion collection.

The re-imagined exterior of the RX features the Wakandan-inspired print and purple colorway used throughout the adidas sportswear collection. A diamond pattern inlayed across the hood is inspired by the Black Panther’s claw necklace. Gold details, a tie to the new Black Panther’s suit, accent the exterior, with unique “F” center caps, F SPORT on the wheels and Lexus badging that are reimagined using the fictional Wakandan alphabet. The word “Vibe-Branium,” also spelled in the Wakandan alphabet, is added to the rear badging as part of its unique name: the Lexus RX 500h Vibe-Brani um AWD DIRECT4.

Beyond the customized exterior wrap, the students at adidas S.E.E.D (School for Experiential Education in Design) embraced the challenge to re imagine the all-new Lexus RX interior by using the much-anticipated sequel as its source of inspiration.

To help guide the students through the design process, Calty Design Research led the students through a series of workshops exploring automo tive design, Lexus design, creative processes, color and materials and the power of collaboration.

Carbon, an adidas partner since 2017, has revolutionized athletic footwear by providing the technology platform for the production of adidas 4D midsoles. Carbon DLS™ (Digital Light Synthesis™) technology is pioneered by 3D printing specialists aligning innovation and sustainability in collaboration with adidas to create a portfolio of athletic footwear that meet specific performance needs. In addition, Carbon’s footprint on the silver screen contributing to costumes, animatronics and other worldly environ ments make them the perfect partner to help realize the S.E.E.D student’s interior vision.

As part of Lexus’s mission to mine budding talent in the creative realm, versatile multi-hyphenated visual storyteller Cami Thomas will document the collaboration with a featurette which is set to release in mid-November on digital platforms.

The custom build will feature an interior re-imagined with future-fo cused designs, textures and materials. Using the modern luxury of the latest RX as a canvas, adidas’s custom Wakanda-inspired tribal gold print covers sections of the seating surfaces and are featured prominently on the seat bolsters in particular. The same pattern is applied to the door panel inserts and in purple sections of the steering wheel. The F SPORT door sill plate is translated in the Wakandan alphabet along with “Wakanda Forever”, which is embroidered on the steering wheel. Key tactile areas such as the steering wheel pad and front and rear headrests are covered in the Carbon 3D printed energy-returning athletic shoe mid-sole material used in the adidas 4D-FWD. The front head rests include Lexus’s signature emblem and the rear center head rest houses adidas’s iconic logo. Meanwhile, surfaces around the shifter are decorated in laser-cut wood and gold trim that accents the interior to help create a uniquely Wakandan-inspired in-car environment.

To celebrate this moment, the powerhouse brands will drop a limited release T-Shirt designed by the students at adidas S.E.E.D. The exclusive T-shirt will be available to select influencers. The front of the T-Shirt includes an African Proverb written in Wakandan (“Educate a Woman, Ed ucate a Nation”) stylized in traditional Japanese format, tategaki. The back of the T-Shirt pays homage to mineral rich Wakanda’s Vibranium that has helped shaped its future focused society through a periodic table transcribed in Wakandan. In addition, the T-Shirt’s wash tag houses emblems from the super power team, LEXUS, adidas, adidas S.E.E.D, Marvel Studios’ “Black Panther: Wakanda Forever” and Carbon.

In the hands of veteran custom car builder Gordon Ting, he helps fully realize the custom “Black Panther: Wakanda Forever”-inspired Lexus RX inside and out.

Wendy Raquel Robinson to Host the Inaugural HBCU Honors Awards Show

MIAMI, PRNews wire -- The inaugural HBCU Honors award show will showcase the “Who’s Who of HBCUs,” and will celebrate the best and brightest HBCU alumni across various industries. The event will be held at the Black Archives-Historic Lyric Theater in Miami, Florida. Emmy award-winning ac tress and producer Wendy Raquel Robinson, a How ard University alumna, will host the all-star night of Black Excellence. The event will be broadcasted during Black History Month in February 2023.

As this year’s HBCU Honors host, Robinson will light up the screen no less and captivate viewers. “I am thrilled to be a part of history as host of this in credible inaugural HBCU Award Show,” Robinson said. “I’m a proud alumna of Howard University and I am ready for the exciting night that is for us, by us, and unapologetically cele brates us and our beloved HBCU lifestyle.”

HBCU Honors will salute game-changers, inno vators, legends, and history-makers. The event will pay tribute to HBCU alumni who have made an indelible mark on the Black community and beyond. With recent

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HBCU historic firsts including the inaugu ration of United States Vice-President Kamala Harris, these institutions of higher learning have been placed on the world’s center stage.

During this renais sance of heightened visibility, there is no better time than now to celebrate and elevate the legacy of HBCUs and illustrious HBCU alumni. “Our amazing HBCU honorees and trailblazers embody HBCU excellence, crushing glass ceilings, driving equity and inclusion, challenging the status quo, dis pelling stereotypes, and advancing the HBCU mission,” said HBCU Honors Awards creator and former BET Networks Senior Vice-President Michelle M. Bailey, a Spelman College alumna.

Eight esteemed HBCU alumni will be lauded during the awards ceremony who have excelled to the highest levels respectively in the areas of aero space and aviation, business, entrepreneurship, public service, media, entertainment, and academia. Visit www. hbcuhonors.com for more information.

AIR DATE FOR “SOUL TRAIN AWARDS” 2022

NEW YORK, PRNewswire -- BET has announced the new air date for “Soul Train Awards” 2022, now pre miering at 8 p.m. EST Saturday, Nov. 26, on BET, BET HER, Logo, MTV2, and VH1, hosted by award-winning comedian and actor Deon Cole. J. Valentine joins previously announced Ari Lennox, Chanteě Moore, Muni Long, SiR, Tank, and BET Ampli fied stage artists Coco Jones and Q as performers. BET also announced this year’s presenters to include JB Smoove, Lucky Daye, Mark Tallman & Michelle Mitchenor (BET+ Original Series “First Wives Club”), and Queen Naija.

The “Soul Train Awards Red Carpet Special” preshow will air at 7 p.m. EST with hosts Tank covering the Main Stage, Letoya Luckett on the Correspondent Stage, and Novi Brown (“Tyler Perry’s Sistas”) in the Walmart Lounge.

Iconic 80’s funk band Morris Day & The Time will receive the ‘Legend’ award. Legendary multiplat inum-selling R&B supergroup Xscape will receive the ‘Lady of Soul’ honor.

Alex Vaughn, Durand Bernarr, Muni Long, and Tasha Cobbs Leonard are set to blend harmonies for this year’s Soul Cypher sponsored by Walmart. Renowned DJ and music producer D-Nice will take command of the turntables, all culminating to make “Soul Train Awards” 2022, the feel good party of the year.

“Soul Train Awards” 2022 pre sented by BET, will feature an exciting lineup of unforgettable performances including special moments and appear ances by some of the brightest stars in Black culture and entertainment. The annual event is committed to showcas ing the impact of Soul Train on music and dance from the ‘70s to today.

Connie Orlando, EVP, Specials, Music Programming & Music Strategy will oversee the annual show and Exec utive Produce for BET with Jamal Noisette, VP, Specials & Music Programming. Jesse Collins, CEO of Jesse Collins Entertainment, to serve as Executive Producer of “Soul Train Awards” 2022 along with Jesse Collins Entertainment’s Jeannae Rouzan–Clay and Dionne Harmon.

Emmy® Award-Winning Producer, Actress Wendy Raquel Robinson to Host the Inaugural HBCU Honors Awards Show produced by Hip Rock Star Media. PRNewsFoto.

America’s First Caribbean Museum Celebrates Two-Year Anniversary and Launches Giving Season Campaign

PLANTATION, Fla., PRNewswire -- Island

SPACE, the first and only Caribbean heritage museum in the United States, is celebrating its second anniversa ry and the #GivingSeason with a series of opportunities for patrons to support its mission to elevate the profile of Caribbean art, history and culture throughout the diaspora.

Finally, from #GivingTuesday on Nov. 29 through New Year’s Day, Island SPACE invites the generations of Caribbean people they represent, the companies they work for and their friends and family who love Caribbean culture to support the museum through multiple platforms including GoFundMe, Facebook and AmazonSmile, as well as Benevity for corporate giving. In addition, donations can be made directly through PayPal or Zelle to give@islandspacefl.org, or email the museum for details at museum@islandspacefl.org. For more information go to islandspacefl.org/giving.

Previous supporters have included Florida Power

& Light Company, Grace Foods, and The Bahamas Ministry of Tourism, Investments and Aviation.

Board president Calibe Thompson said, “We’ve made great strides in promoting exceptional Caribbean arts and cultural programs.This giving season, we aim to earn the financial support of a broad community so we can do even more in ‘the place where Caribbean cultures unite.’”

Island Society for the Promotion of Artistic and Cultural Education (Island SPACE) is a 501(c)(3) non profit organization dedicated to the advancement of arts, culture, history, and educational initiatives that represent the Caribbean region, in South Florida and the broader diaspora.

The public is invited to visit the museum Thurs days through Saturdays from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. and Sundays from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. General museum entry is $10 per adult and $5 per child. Visit islandspacefl.org to learn more.

HOPE FOR AFRICA, YOUTH VOW TO TRANSFORM THE CONTINENT

BY NICHOLAS THOMPSON

There is a renewed hope for Africa. Young African Christian leaders have pledged to play their role in transforming Africa. A resolution to this effect was adopted by the youth leaders at the end of the All Africa Youth Congress in Ghana’s capital, Accra this November. The confer ence was held at a time when economic hardships are forcing youths to flee Africa at an alarming rate at the risk of their lives. Africa has the world’s youngest population, with 70 percent of young people under 30 years old, according to data released at the conference.

With the theme, “Africa, My Home and My Future,” the conference attracted about 1,000 delegates from all parts of Africa, the Diaspora and people of Afri can descent. Sponsored by the All Africa Conference of Churches, prominent Af rican clergymen deplored Africa’s plight, and empowered the youths. Fired up, the youth leaders vowed to do their part and prayed for divine intervention on their side. Among the stirring songs, delegates sang, “God, our guide in ages past, our hope for years to come.”

“The Accra congress is bound to have an enormous impact on the conti nent, ‘’ said Min. Dr. Nicholas Okai jah-Thompson, executive director of the Chicago-based Africa Resurrection and Restoration Ministries (ARRM).

“It resulted in united ways for youth leaders to work as Christ ambassadors and be engaged effectively in developing Africa. They can work to build self-suf ficient economies in place of the systems of colonialism, slavery, and mismanage ment after political independence.

“African Christian youth leaders are emerging as agents of change to free the continent spiritually, and advance their people economically, socially and culturally.”

Stella Gasu, a delegate of ARRM, was delighted with the turnout for the congress. “It was amazing to see hun dreds of hundreds of Christians from all parts of the continent assembling for this historic congress,” she said. “Certainly, God is with us, and as we seek his face, He will make a way to free us from our

sufferings. He did it for the children of Israel by freeing them from the political and economic oppression of ancient Egypt.”

As an expression of solidarity with the Accra congress, Rev. Douglas Man dere of Kenya led in singing and prayers on Chicago ARRM’s Saturday Resurrec tion Prayer line. Rev. Dr. Kofi-Noonoo, president of the Council of Ghanaian Churches, offered a moving summary prayer. It was proposed that an annual day of prayer be observed by all African Christians worldwide on the Saturday following Africa Liberation Day, May 25.

At another event, other African Christian leaders welcomed the initiative of the youth congress. “The meeting of the African young Christian leaders in Accra is of great interest for Africa and Christianity. We are obliged to support the future leaders of the continent,’’ declared Rev. James Sheldou of Liberia and pastor of the Living Sacrifices Church, Chicago. He moved for a message of support to be sent to the youth congress.

Equally supportive of the congress was Rev. James Acquaah, pastor of the Ghanaian Presbyterian Church, Chicago. A motion by Rev. Acquaah and Min. Okaijah Thompson was adopted to form a united African christian body to work with the youth congress and the All Afri ca Conference of Churches. The group, tentatively the US-Africa Christians Organization (USAMCO), would be open to all Africans, African-Americans and Caribbeans. A meeting is planned in the next few weeks to involve other interested persons.

Inspiring songs were sung at the event by Pastor Abeola Kolowale of Nigeria; and Pastor Emmanuel Amonoo, Associate Pastor Rev. Nana Owusu-Be mpah and Evangelist Kwamena Sam, all of the First Ghana United Church, offered insightful prayers. “The time of the African people worldwide is now” was the consensus of the meeting, in support of the Accra congress..

Nicholas Thompson is executive director of Africa Resurrection and Restoration Ministries (ARRM) based in Chicago. He holds degrees in political science, journalism and theology.

New History Program Serves Up Anti-Racist Curriculum for Schools

NEW YORK, PRNewswire

-- Film director and educator Bran di Webb collaborated with veteran educator Melody Michaux, to develop the 3E Program for Social Justice and Change. The 3E Program is a U.S His tory curriculum resource that provides middle and high school educators with lesson plans, resources, assessments, and video segments and uses New York state standards as a basis. These standards fall in line with social studies requirements in many other states. Video segments used to accompany 3E Program lessons are from Webb’s award-winning documentary, Betrayal of a Nation. Film topics addressed include the American Dream, the Tuskegee Syphilis Experiment, the Tulsa Race Massacre, and Reparations, along

with five other topics. With a focus on Ethics, Empathy, and Empowerment, the program offers instructors an opportunity to provide their students an in-depth examination of historical events that have impacted African Americans and People of Color. These events have been lightly touched on, distorted, or omitted altogether in con ventional U.S History syllabi. The goal of the 3E Program is to build a new legacy free of racism.

Betrayal of a Nation is an experi mental documentary that chronicles U.S History in the format of a trial and in dicts U.S agencies on charges related to the oppression of Black and Brown citizens. The film received awards from the Peo ple’s Film Festival, IndieFilm Fest, and has screened at several

festivals during 2021. After viewing the documentary, Michaux and other participants expressed a need for the film to be shown in schools as a learning resource for students. In response to the overwhelming demand to have the film’s topics integrated into school curricula, Webb and Michaux created the 3E Program.

Administrators from schools and organizations, teachers, and parents that are homeschooling, can access the subscrip tion-based program online at www.3eprogram.com. Professional development is offered to schools who wish to implement the program in their classrooms. The 3E Program for Social Justice and Change also provides virtual classes of the history curricu lum for homeschooled students, taught by 3E Program educa tors. Virtual classes begin Nov. 28th.

“Ms. Webb’s research and vision brilliantly takes students on a journey that fills many gaps in African American history,” stated Michael Oby, Professor at Clark Atlanta University.

To learn more about the 3E Program for Social Justice and Change, visit www.3eprogram.com.

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A Haitian themed display in the main archive at Island SPACE Caribbean Museum | Photography by Island Syndicate

Filmmaker and Educator Brandi Webb, Co-cre ator of the 3E Program for Social Justice and Change. PRNEWSFOTO.

Educator Melody Michaux, Co-creator of the 3E Program for Social Justice and Change. PRNEWSFOTO.

STAND UP TO CANCER LAUNCHES NEW RADIO PSA WITH JAZZ PHARMACEUTICALS TO ENCOURAGE LUNG CANCER SCREENING

LOS ANGELES,PRNewswire -- Stand Up To Cancer® (SU2C) announced the launch of a new public service announce ment (PSA) campaign in partnership with Jazz Pharmaceuticals plc. The PSA aims to raise awareness in Black and Hispanic communities about small cell lung can cer and encourage listeners to learn about screening options. The radio PSA campaign launches nationally today in both English and Spanish.

Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer-related deaths in the United States and affects some communities more severe ly than others. Small cell lung cancer is a fast-growing type of lung cancer commonly caused by smoking; however, it often af fects non-smokers who have been exposed to secondhand smoke, radon, air pollution, or other factors. When small cell lung can cer is detected early, before it has spread, patients benefit from more treatment options that can significantly increase survival rates. Black Americans are 18% less likely to be diagnosed early and Latinos are 16% less likely, compared to white Americans. This PSA campaign aims to generate awareness in these communities about the need for regular lung cancer screenings, with a goal of early detection and diagnosis to have the best opportunity for optimal treatment outcomes.

“This PSA campaign is an important component of our efforts to improve cancer health equity to ensure diverse patient populations have equal access to health

care and important cancer treatments,” said Russell Chew, president and CEO of Stand Up To Cancer. “Ad ditionally, we are incredibly thankful to Jazz Pharma ceuticals for the company’s support of SU2C’s Catalyst program, including research to investigate potential new treatments for non-small cell lung cancer.”

“Jazz is committed to transforming the lives of patients and their families, and our collaboration with Stand Up To Cancer on this PSA campaign aims to spread awareness of small cell lung cancer and en courage early screening. Early detection and diagnosis is essential to give people with small cell lung cancer

the opportunity of improved outcomes, especially in minority communities,” said Kelvin Tan MB BCh, MRCPCH, senior vice president and chief medical officer of Jazz Pharmaceuticals.

Stand Up To Cancer recently an nounced the funding of three SU2C Catalyst® research projects with support from Jazz Pharmaceuticals. The first is the SU2C Catalyst LiFFT Study, which will explore the safety and efficacy of lurbinec tedin in Adolescent and Young Adult Ewing sarcomas. The second is the SU2C Catalyst Lung Cancer Combination Therapeutics Team, which will use pre-clinical models to identify which existing targeted therapeutic agents, when combined with the Jazz Phar maceuticals compound JZP815, may lead to testing in patients with KRAS-mutated non-small cell lung cancer to improve their outcomes. The last project, the Digital Ethnography Study, uses an innovative methodology to analyze webbased conversations about barriers to lung cancer treat ment and participation in clinical trials in underserved patient populations including different racial and ethnic populations. These efforts are part of SU2C’s Health Equity Initiative, which aims to decrease disparities in cancer care and works towards making every cancer patient a long-term survivor.

The radio PSA was developed by SU2C with radio mixing by Tono Studios.

To learn more about this PSA, visit StandUpTo Cancer.org/Lung.

HHS Releases New National Guidelines for Improving Youth Mental Health Crisis Care

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), through the Sub stance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), released a new report, National Guidelines for Child and Youth Behavioral Health Crisis Care, which describes the urgent need to improve crisis response services for children, youth, and families and provides guidance on how communities can address the existing gaps in care for youth.

The National Guidelines for Child and Youth Behavioral Health Crisis Care offers best practices, implementation strategies, and practical guidance for the design and development of services that meet the needs of children, youth, and their families experiencing a behavioral health crisis. Additional technical guidance is provid ed in a companion report produced by SAMHSA in conjunction with the National Association of State Mental Health Pro gram Directors, A Safe Place to Be: Crisis Stabilization Services and Other Supports for Children and Youth. This report is part of a 10-paper compendium “From Crisis to Care” that will be released in the coming weeks.

As the national guidelines outline, the need for developmentally and culturally

appropriate crisis response services for youth is crucial, and yet while many crisis response systems have robust services in place for adults, there are often consider able gaps in capacity to serve youth and families.

SAMHSA’s guidelines recommend that youth in crisis from mental health and substance use disorders receive care in the least restrictive setting possible, and if it is safe, at home and in the community. Whenever possible, hospitalizations and justice system involvement should be safe ly reduced or prevented.

As with adults, the guidelines recom mend that crisis services for children and families ensure that youth and families have:

Someone to Talk To: Crisis Call Cen ters, including the new national 988 Sui cide & Crisis Lifeline, offering 24/7/365 access to counselors with specialized train ing to respond to youth and families.

Someone to Respond: Mobile Re sponse Teams, to respond to crises at homes, schools and elsewhere in the com munity, keeping youth in their homes when safe to do so.

A Safe Place to Be: Crisis Receiv ing and Stabilization Services, including

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in-home services, at crisis care facilities, emergency departments and hospital set tings

According to SAMHSA’s recommen dations, crisis response systems should partner with agencies across the continuum of care for children and youth: including schools, family and peer support, com munity organizations, child welfare and foster care, juvenile justice, pediatricians and other primary care providers, and law enforcement when appropriate.

The guidelines further recommend that crisis care providers be trained to respond to the diverse needs of all youth, including those of different age ranges, races and ethnicities, sexual and gender identities, immigration status, homelessness and intellectual or developmental disabilities. They also recommend that clinicians and peers reflect the diverse communities they serve.

Anyone seeking treatment for mental health or substance use issues should call SAMHSA’s National Helpline at 800662-HELP (4357) or visit findtreatment. samhsa.gov.

If you or someone you know is strug gling or in crisis, help is available. Call or text 988 or chat 988lifeline.org.

PRNewsfoto/Stand Up To Cancer

The National Guidelines for Child and Youth Behavioral Health Crisis Care offers best practices, implementation strategies, and practical guidance for the design and development of services that meet the needs of children, youth, and their families experiencing a behavioral health crisis.

LEGAL NOTICE

Notice is hereby give, pursuant to “An Act in relation to the use of an Assumed Business name in the conduct or transaction of Business in the State,” as amended, that a certification was registered by the undersigned with the County Clerk of Cook County. Registration Number: Y22009837 on NOVEMBER 9,222.

Under the Assumed Business Name of DOMIN ION CONSULTING with the business located at: 1352 W. WILSON, CHICAGO, ILLINOIS 60640. The true and real full name (s) and residence address of the owner(S)/partner (s) is:

Owner/Partner Full Name SARAFINA ASIEDU Complete Address 1352 W. WILSON, CHICA GO, ILLINOIS 60640, USA.

Notice is hereby given, pursuant to “An Act in rela-tion to the use of an Assumed Business Name in the conduct or transaction of Business in the State,” as amended, that a certification was registered by the undersigned with the County Clerk of Cook County. Registration Number: Y22009848 on NOVEMBER 9,2022.

Under the Assumed Business Name of CHICA GO SOURCE with the Business located at 403 PAXTON AVE., CALUMET CITY, ILLINOIS 60409. The true and real full name (s) and res idence address of the owner (s) / partner (s) is;

Owner/Partner Full Name TWANDA MOBLEY

Complete Address 403 PAXTON AVE., CALUMET CITY, ILLINOIS 60409, USA.

(StatePoint) When it comes to customer retention, 82% will take their business elsewhere simply because they don’t think you care, according to a sur vey by The Rockefeller Corporation. Don’t leave your current and prospective clients feeling down in the dumps. Here are a few tips to spread holiday cheer and show them how much you appreciate them all year.

Cut the Sales Talk

Holiday greetings should be about thankfulness and appreciation – so leave the sales pitches for another day. Instead, use your holiday greetings to build meaningful connections and foster personal relationships. Incorporate messages that focus on how much you truly value their partnership and connection, not their money.

Make it Personalized

Rather than sending the same gift or greeting to every client, make your messages more impactful with unexpected levels of personalization. This can be as simple as addressing your clients by their names or including small gifts or exclusive offers you know they’d enjoy. Showing them you listen to their preferences or remember individual interactions provides an extra touch of thoughtfulness.

Also, check out exceptional subscrip tion-based services. American Greetings, for exam ple, offers a plethora of personal, creative ways to send messages with SmashUps and Creatacard — and you can even add a gift card to these special greetings.

SmashUps are highly personalized, smile-inducing shareable videos that can be person alized in a variety of ways, including adding their name or a message right into the audio and graphics. With tons of holiday themes, messages from celebrities and more, they’re sure to entertain, surprise and delight your clients. Additionally, with SmashUps you can schedule delivery ahead of time to stay on track with deadlines and reduce the “out of office” emails around the holidays.

For a more modern twist on a classic holiday tradition, Creatacard is a new, personalized virtual greeting card that includes the most-loved fea tures of paper cards. Unlike eCards, Creatacards are designed to “virtually” look and feel like traditional cards: they arrive in a virtual envelope that opens; fea ture folded or flat designs that open or flip over like a paper card; but also include unique digital features such as animation, video or music. In just a few easy steps, you can create, personalize, and even sign your favorite digital cards.

Avoid Holiday-Specific Messages

With an abundance of different cultures and traditions around the world, not everyone celebrates the same holidays. When creating your holiday greeting recipi ent list, make sure your messaging is appropriate for your client – or to be safe, use more generic and inclu sive sayings such as, “Happy Holidays,” “Season’s Greetings” or “Warm Wishes.”

Send a Custom Gift Package

If you’re a more traditional company, embrace your roots and in addition to your digital greetings, send a physical gift package to your cus tomers and prospects. Receiving a gift filled with branded items, a bottle of wine or spirits, assorted baked goods, or gift certificates can really showcase how much you care about them.

Don’t Forget the Assistants

Consider sending cards to your main contact’s assistants, partners or other critical team members. A little can go a long way when showing your appreciation to every integral team member of their business – from the assistant to the CEO.

Sending holiday greetings is a smart way to keep your business top of mind before employ ees go on vacations around that time of year. Companies can get in the groove of sending out the same messages year after year, or get busy with other work, which can lead to pressed time and less ingenuity. Get inspired this holiday season with more creative, personal ways to show customers and prospects you care.

Darnell and Denna, adopted 16-year-old Isaiah

His first football season, Isaiah told us, ‘Wear a jersey with my name on it. I want everyone to know you’re here for me.’