South End Citizen 12-21-2022

-- Jai Kensey is the Director of Social Impact for Green Thumb Industries, Inc. PHOTO PROVIDED BY THOUGHT BUBBLE COMMUNICATIONS.

Peter Contos is the Deputy Director of Cannabis Equity Illinois Coalition. Cannabis Equity Illinois Coalition is one of four organizations to receive $50,000 from the Good Green Grant Program. Photo provided by Thought Bubble Communications.

Douglas Kelly is the Executive Director for Cannabis Equity Illinois Coalition. . Cannabis Equity Illinois Coalition is one of four organizations to receive $50,000 from the Good Green Grant Program.

PHOTO PROVIDED BY THOUGHT BUBBLE COMMUNICATIONS.

REP. ROBIN KELLY VOTES TO PASS THE ‘RESPECT FOR MARRIAGE ACT’

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Rep. Robin L. Kelly (IL-02) voted to pass the ‘Respect for Marriage Act,’ codifying the rights of same-sex couples to marry into federal law. The legislation now goes to President Biden’s desk for signature.

After a series of decisions by the Supreme Court to roll back fundamental rights, especially the right to an abortion, Democrats acted swiftly to protect hardfought freedoms. The right of all people, no matter who they love, to marry is under attack. Representative Robin Kelly has been a steadfast supporter of marriage equality and has continued to proudly support Congressional efforts to safeguard this right.

“Today is a very good day in the House. I am so proud that Congress has taken this crucial step toward progress and codified the rights of all people to marry who they love,” said Rep. Robin L. Kelly (IL-02). “As a committed supporter of LGBTQ+ rights, I will continue to work on behalf of my LGBTQ+ constituents to ensure that every person is treated equally, with the dignity and respect they deserve.”

ILLINOIS HUMANITIES ANNOUNCES $150,000 IN ENVISIONING JUSTICE GRANTS

CHICAGO — Illinois Humanities is proud to announce that new Envisioning Justice grants will provide funding totaling $150,000 to 23 organizations and individuals working statewide to address the injustice of mass incarceration. The projects receiving funding utilize the arts, humanities, and community organizing to enact change, influence public opinion, and promote a more just society through community-based approaches to accountability and public safety.

Since 2017, Illinois Humanities has provided more than half a million dollars in grants to individuals and organizations working in Illinois to develop events and resources for communities disproportionately impacted by mass incarceration, and for all Illinoisans to get involved in creating a more just state.

The 2022 Envisioning Justice grantee partners include: the Chicago Community Bond Fund (Chicago), which will create a multimedia campaign about the Pretrial Fairness Act; Knox College faculty member Leanne Trapedo Sims (Galesburg), who will create a new Inside-Out Prison Exchange program with Knox College students and students incarcerated at Henry Hill Correctional Center; Sonja Henderson and the Mothers Healing Circle (Chicago), who will create an art installation in North Lawndale created by mothers who have lost loved ones to violence; and Education Justice Project (Champaign), who will develop a reentry guide and zines to share knowledge and resources to support people returning from prison.

The 2022 Envisioning Justice grants are funded by the Andrew W. Mellon Foundation and the Polk Bros. Foundation. For a list of recipients, visit https:// tinyurl.com/34cbrdeb.

Good Green awards organizations with grant money

BY TIA CAROL JONES

Good Green, which is the cannabis flower brand owned by Green Thumb Industries, Inc., launched in 2021. The aim of the brand is to reinvest cannabis money back into communities that have been disproportionately affected by the War on Drugs. The Good Green Grant Program is one of the ways it works with a non-profit organization whose focus includes Good Green’s four pillars which include expungement, employment and education.

“Just over a year ago, Good Green was launched with the goal of creating opportunity within Black and Brown communities that have been disproportionately impacted by the War on Drugs,” Green Thumb Founder, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer Ben Kovler, said in a release. “Since then, the grant program has funded a spectrum of meaningful, mission-driven initiatives to foster change and help repair cannabis-related injustices. We are honored to support four additional organizations in their efforts to rectify the wrongs of cannabis prohibition and uplift those negatively affected.”

According to Jai Kensey, Director of Social Impact for Green Thumb Industries, Inc., the four organizations were chosen because they are in the trenches and trusted in the community. Kensey, who worked in the non-profit world, knows how important having unrestricted funding is to organizations.

The Cannabis Equity Illinois Coalition was founded in 2019 in preparation for the legalization of marijuana. The non-profit works on expungement, wraparound resource fairs, youth advocation and education and policy work. Since it was founded, the organization has serviced thousands of people with record clearing, and at least 500 people with direct legal service. It is part of the New Leaf Illinois Network, which assists those with a cannabis conviction or arrest with legal services to get their record cleared.

“Organizations like the Coalition, they’re extremely well-known in not only Illinois, but other markets, doing a tremendous job in terms of expungement work, tirelessly working for immediate expungements and providing wraparound services. It was a no brainer for us to support them. If you’re in Illinois and you don’t know the Coalition and you’re in this space,

it’s like you’re not in this space,” Kensey said.

Peter Contos, Deputy Director of the Cannabis Equity Illinois Coalition, said Illinois made a lot of promises when it legalized marijuana, with its policy work, the Cannabis Equity Illinois Coalition intends to hold Illinois accountable to repair from the war on drugs, as well as ensure Illinois’ adult use cannabis industry is equitable, inclusive and everybody has an opportunity to compete.

Douglas Kelly, Executive Director for the Cannabis Equity Illinois Coalition, said the $50,000 the organization received from the Good Green Grant will be used to hire an in-house lawyer to take on the expungement process. Kelly would also like to see automatic expungement for those who were imprisoned for cannabis offenses.

“We have to end permanent punishment. It’s sad to see individuals out of prison 20-30 years, haven’t done anything else wrong, but they still can’t get resources, they still can’t get employment, they still can’t get housing, they can’t even rent an apartment. As a society we have to do better,” Kelly said.

Contos wants to see the returning citizen process holistic and more humane. The grant will be huge for the Cannabis Equity Illnois Coalition as it will help them put the humanity back into their work and make sure people get the time and respect they deserve to move through the expungement process.

Going into 2023, Good Green is looking to be more thoughtful about where the greatest impact is, being intentional about working with organizations on the ground and in the trenches. Kensey is a true believer in working with organizations on the ground providing specific services. Good Green anticipates it will start to look at how it can move into the employment pillar, looking at how it can get more people who have had their records expunged into the cannabis industry.

“I think for 2023 we’ll really focus on looking at the individual pillars more thoughtfully, to ensure that we’re really making an impact on individual’s lives,” Kensey said.

For more information about the Cannabis Equity Illinois Coalition, visit cannabisequityil.org. For more information about Good Green, visit good.green.

Steeped Coffee Partners with Connect Roasters to Bring Best-Selling Blends To Single-Serve Coffee Drinkers

Santa Cruz, Calif. and Chicago, Ill. – Steeped Coffee, a Certified B Corp and Benefit Corporation, announced today it is partnering with purpose-driven coffee company Connect Roasters to bring the company’s popular coffees to single-serve drinkers nationwide. Served to players in the clubhouse at Chicago’s Wrigley Field, Connect Roasters is a notable addition to the 400+ specialty coffee roasters who use the Steeped Brewing Method to deliver single-serve benefits without any barriers

Steeped is on a mission to make specialty coffee more ethical, more accessible, and more sustainable through its proprietary Steeped Brewing Method. Brewed like tea in pre-portioned compostable coffee bags, this game-changing method allows coffee lovers to enjoy a delicious cup of coffee by simply adding hot water. Each Steeped Coffee Bag contains craft-roasted coffee, precision ground to the micron then triple nitro-sealed in a full immersion filter for maximum flavor and freshness.

“Steeped doesn’t take its barista-approved standards lightly and we’ve worked closely with industry experts to validate every aspect of the Steeped Brewing Method, from extraction to taste to freshness,” said Josh Wilbur, Founder and CEO, Steeped Coffee. “Most importantly, we are bringing an authentic specialty coffee experience to single-serve coffee lovers everywhere. We are thrilled to partner with Connect Roasters to bring its premium roasts to as many people as possible.”

Connect Roasters was founded by Caleb Benoit in 2016 after inspirational mission trips to the Dominican Republic and Haiti. The company’s vision is to use coffee as a vehicle to empower communities in coffee-sourcing countries as well as underserved neighborhoods closer to home. That mission is executed thanks to partnerships with organizations like Save the Children and the Greater Chicago Food Depository, which are supported through proceeds from coffee sales. Connect’s purpose and high quality coffee attracted Major League Baseball All-Star and coffee enthusiast Ian Happ, who is now an investor and brand ambassador.

Two of the company’s bestselling coffees, the Guatemala Santa Clara and the Columbia Decaf, are now available in sustainable Steeped Packs. Sourced directly from a fourth-generation family farm in the Acatenango Valley, the Guatemala Santa Clara coffee contains notes

of chocolate with a sweet, clean finish. The Colombia Decaf is a bright coffee from the Valle del Cauca region that’s pleasantly sweet and easily stands up to its non-caffeinated cousins.

“Connect Roasters was founded to make a difference – using our business to improve lives around the world. We are proud to partner with Steeped Coffee and continue that mission through the use of sustainable single-serve packaging that makes our coffees accessible to more people, while minimizing our impact on the planet,” said Caleb Benoit, Founder and CEO, Connect Roasters.

Based in Santa Cruz, California, Steeped Coffee is a Certified B Corp and Benefit Corporation helping to make great-tasting craft coffee more accessible, more ethical, and more sustainable through its proprietary and patent-pending Steeped Brewing Method. The method brews coffee similarly to tea in pre-portioned compostable coffee bags, allowing coffee lovers to enjoy a delicious cup of coffee anytime, anywhere. Licensed to over 400 of the top specialty roasters around the globe, the Steeped Brewing Method is the simplest way to make a perfect cup of coffee by simply adding water without depending on pods, plugs, or expensive equipment. Welcome to Coffee Simplified.

Steeped Coffee is available at steepedcoffee.com, on Amazon with Prime Free Delivery, at thousands of US supermarkets, premium hotels, offices, and for distribution through KeHE, UNFI, and other national distribution outlets. For business inquiries, contact sales@ steepedcoffee.com, (831) 316-4898, or visit steepedcoffee.com/business.

Based in Bourbonnais, Ill., Connect Roasters uses fully traceable, equitably sourced coffee as a vehicle to support communities abroad and close to home. It does that through partners like the Greater Chicago Food Depository, which has distributed 30,000 meals to those in need thanks to the sale of coffee. Connect’s coffees are shipped to mission-minded coffee lovers across the country and now served in major league clubhouses.

Connect Roasters is available at connectroasters.com and at select partners throughout Chicagoland, including retailers like Foxtrot, Dom’s Kitchen & Market and J.P. Graziano Grocery.

PRIDE PIPE & SUPPLY MAKES HISTORY AS FIRST BLACK-OWNED HEATING, VENTILATION AND AIR CONDITIONING COMPANY IN THE MIDWEST

CHICAGO—Herman Pride announced the launch of Pride Pipe & Supply, the first Black-owned heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) company in the Midwest. The launch of the business includes a partnership with Trane, a world leader in air conditioning systems, services and solutions.

With the support of HIRE360, an organization designed to expand professional development and employment opportunities in the trades, and Related Midwest, a founding partner of HIRE360, Pride established a partnership with Trane for commercial services. Pride has more than 25 years of experience working

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

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on large-scale projects in Chicago and across the Midwest.

“Being the first Black-owned HVAC company in the Midwest is a dream come true and a long-overdue milestone,” said Herman Pride, Owner and President of Pride Pipe & Supply. “The partnership with Trane has already resulted in conversations for new contracts with established developers, which sets an example for other companies to take the important step to partner with small, minority-owned businesses that have the talent and skills to deliver.”

“This partnership marks a significant moment in the industry and illustrates HIRE360’s mission to help expand opportunities for minority-owned small businesses,” said Don Biernacki, Executive Vice President of Construction at Related Midwest and Board Chair of HIRE360. “HIRE360 and Related Midwest are proud to support and invest in businesses like Pride Pipe & Supply and other women- and minority-owned businesses that provide innovative solutions throughout the communities they serve. By investing in companies like these, we are creating a more inclusive industry that reflects the world we live in.”

HIRE360 launched in Chicago in December 2019 and is a unique partnership of construction unions, general contractors and developers. The organization connects community members to careers in construction and invests in minority- and women-owned construction firms so they grow and create generational and community wealth.

Bank of America Commits $13 Million to Chicago-Area Nonprofits Chicago, Ill. – Bank of America announced it has committed $13 million in funding to more than 100 Chicago-area nonprofit organizations working to drive economic opportunity for individuals and families in underserved Chicagoland communities.

This year, Bank of America partnered with nonprofits that are addressing key factors that contribute to economic inequality across the Chicagoland area, with targeted support to organizations supporting health, jobs, small business, and community development. Key nonprofit partners include the Obama Foundation, Harold Washington College, Chicago Community Loan Fund, and Chicago Community Trust, all of whom share a deep and unwavering commitment to improving the lives of Chicagoans and paving the way

for the next generation.

“It is both inspiring and humbling to see the impact these organizations have had in our communities this year,” said Rita Sola Cook, president of Bank of America Chicago. “We are profoundly grateful for our nonprofit partners who help bring to life Bank of America’s vision for a stronger, more equitable Chicago. On behalf of our Chicago-area team, we are honored to help support their efforts to enhance economic mobility and improve the lives of our neighbors.”

This year’s grant recipients include the 2022 Bank of America Neighborhood Builders awardees for the Chicago market: Allies for Community Business and Skills for Chicagoland’s Future. Allies for Community Business provides capital, coaching, and connections to help individuals grow impactful businesses and build wealth. Skills for Chicagoland’s Future closes the workforce opportunity gap for Black and Brown Chicagoans by partnering with corporations to place individuals in good-paying jobs that provide a pathway toward economic security and mobility. As Neighborhood Builders, each organization receives $200,000 in flexible funding and one year of comprehensive leadership training for their executive director and an emerging leader.

“Over the past 10 years, Skills has helped more than 10,000 Chicagoans find a pathway to economic security, in large part due to the support from our longtime partners like Bank of America,” shared Pamela Tully, Chief Program Officer at Skills for Chicagoland’s Future. “Partnerships like this are instrumental to expanding our efforts and deepening our impact in the communities we serve.”

Additional 2022 Bank of America grant recipients include Chicago Community Loan Fund, whose president Calvin Holmes was recognized with the Bank of America Neighborhood Builders Racial Equality Award in honor of his contributions to breaking racial barriers and creating opportunities for people of color; St. Leonard’s Ministries, who directed the bank’s grant funding toward the hiring of a full-time case manager for its Michael Barlow Center, which helps prepare formerly incarcerated individuals for reentry into the labor force; and My Block My Hood My City, with provides local youth with mentorship and engagement opportunities so they become active participants in shaping Chicago’s future.

Bank of America’s support for Chicagoland’s philanthropic network and volunteer investments play a key role in its effort to help build and sustain thriving communities. Since 2017, the Bank of America Charitable Foundation has provided $42 million in grants and matching gifts in the Chicago market, and the bank’s local teammates have recorded more than 216,000 volunteer hours.

For more information about Bank of America’s commitment to the Chicago area, please visit our About Us Chicago page.

POLITICAL AFFAIRS

THE PERIOD PROUD ACT

Congressman Sean Casten (IL-06) and Congresswoman Grace Meng (NY-06) recently introduced the Period PROUD (Providing Resources to Our Underserved and Disadvantaged) Act of 2022 to expand accessibility to menstrual products for those with limited access.

Menstrual products are often considered a luxury, with the cost averaging $13.25 a month, forcing many women to make difficult decisions such as choosing between sanitary pads or food. The Period PROUD Act would provide funding through the Social Services Block Grant program to remove cost barriers to menstrual products and educate school officials on how to best communicate with students in need of these products.

“No one should be forced to choose between paying their bills or buying menstrual products,” said Rep. Casten. “The Period PROUD Act removes that cost-barrier for the 22 million women living in poverty and ensures that a period will never have to prevent someone from going to school or showing up to work. Menstruation is a natural process and the products it requires should be freely accessible.”

“Menstrual products are a health care right and a human right and no one should have to choose between buying food or buying basic needs like menstrual products. That is why I have led the fight in Congress to combat period poverty and ensure women and girls have safe and affordable access to menstrual products through my Menstrual Equity for All Act,” said Rep. Meng. “Period products are often classified as luxury products making them more expensive and often inaccessible to low-income individuals. The Period PROUD Act would provide funding to help remove cost barriers to menstrual products and I am proud to partner with Congressman Casten in the fight to end period poverty.”

“Menstruation products should be free for everyone regardless of status, income, or religion. The Period PROUD Act of 2022 is essential to making this a reality in the United States,” said Christian Nunes, President of the National Organization for Women. “Removing the cost barriers around menstruation products and increasing accessibility affects us all, especially low-income communities. Menstruation products should not be a luxury for some because they are a necessity for all. It’s time to enact a policy like the Period PROUD Act of 2022 to guarantee it.”

“I Support the Girls (ISTG) is thrilled to see the Period P.R.O.U.D. (Providing Resources to Our Underserved and Disadvantaged) Act being introduced, sponsored by Representatives Casten and Meng. Menstrual equity is so often ignored, but it crosses racial, social, and regional divides,” said Dana Marlowe, Executive Director of ISTG. “I am so pleased to see that this Act will combat period poverty and promote equity for menstruating individuals, will ensure equal opportunity to attend school or not miss work due to one’s period. Ample access to period products also reduces the potential for health complications. We support this legislation and are excited to see it move forward.”

ELIZABETH “LIZZIE G” ELIE

Herman Pride meets with Related Midwest, Trane Technologies and HIRE360 to discuss his new groundbreaking business, Pride Pipe & Supply. Photo provided by HIRE360.

The Gift That Keeps Giving for Your Child This Holiday Season

Financial education is crucial to longterm success – and that education begins at an early age. Research suggests many of the habits we carry into adulthood are set by age seven. For parents, it’s important to lay a foundation early that children can build on. Gifting a child a bank account this holiday season is one step to promoting financial literacy, empowering them to learn and develop healthy savings goals and budgeting habits that can help set them up for future financial success.

Unlike a regular savings account, a child’s savings account may come with additional perks, including no monthly account fees or opening balance requirements. Additionally, banks often create original content for younger audiences, making it easier for kids to learn responsible money managing basics. Often these learning tools are online/ mobile – for example, Chase provides new young customers with The Quest, an animated graphic novel that teaches kids about saving regularly, spending wisely and earning money – to help boost your child’s financial education.

Opening a savings account for your child can:

• Help them learn more about saving money. Teach your kids how to plan and prioritize their costs. Help them develop a realistic budget to build a foundation and monitor their spending.

Phocas Financial Issues First Quarter 2023 Investment Outlook for REIT Market

ALAMEDA, Calif., PRNewswire -- Phocas Financial Corporation (“Phocas”), an employee-owned registered investment adviser specializing in equity REIT and small-cap value equity investing, issued its Q4 2022 commentary and Q1 2023 REIT investment outlook.

Phocas manages some $750 million, and has managed REIT, Small Cap Value, and Equity Income investment strategies since its founding in 2005. Phocas’ Q4 REIT strategy highlights follow.

Investor concerns about decelerating earnings and softening fundamentals are discounting relatively strong 3Q22 earnings across most real estate sectors and often positive Wall Street views of higher quality names recovering from depressed prices during the quarter.

Aim to strike a balance between stable/defensive groups such as storage and cell ‘phone towers, as well as companies trading at steeper discounts such as offices and select healthcare and retail names.

Because of rising wages and labor shortages we expect labor pressure to remain a key concern for healthcare and other REITs in 4Q22 and into

2023.

Yolanda Foreman, President of Phocas, said, “Most of us will continue to live, work, shop, use our cell ‘phones, and secure our electronic data. These ongoing life activities will continue to present attractive REIT investment opportunities worthy of consideration even by conservative investors.”

James Murray, Portfolio Manager, commented on the outlook, “Entering the first quarter of 2023 investors should try to focus their portfolios on companies with attractively valued fundamentals in growth sectors like Health Care and Towers. Regarding REITs being able to adjust pricing rapidly to adapt to inflation, interest rate changes, and perceptions of economic health, consider the speed with which prices of hotel rooms can be changed.

We believe that commercial real estate remains attractive. For example, we continue to believe that Health Care deserves attention due to impacts of the Pandemic, including increased utilization and demand for medical office facilities. For example, dialysis centers in shopping centers can sustain and even boost valuations of retail real estate through increased consumer foot traffic.”

• Save money for a specific short-term financial goal. Take the opportunity to encourage your child to set aside funds in their savings account to make a special purchase –whether it’s saving up to buy that new game or bicycle they’ve been wanting

• Provide hands-on experience. Kids often learn by doing, so consider opening a child savings account as soon as they start receiving money. Empowering them with a child debit card can help build good money habits.

• Teach them more about banking. Your child can learn how to deposit checks in a branch, bank online, and withdraw cash at an ATM by helping co-manage their account.

Building a Healthy Financial Future

Opening a kids’ savings account provides a natural avenue for parents to talk to children about their financial wellness and, while they often don’t pay high yields, these accounts are meaningful tools to start a child on a responsible financial path from an early age.

It’s important to provide ways for kids to earn money through chores, an allowance or a summer job. Long-term, the goal is for children to gain real-life experience earning and managing money when they become adults. That way, they will be more equipped to be part of a larger discussion about debit cards, credit cards, auto loans or other financial products they may need as they enter adulthood.

Visit chase.com/parents to discover more tips and tools to teach your kids good money habits.

Yolanda Foreman, President of Phocas. PRNewsFoto.

Amber Ruffin Celebrates the Best Holiday Gifts with a Festive Neiman Marcus ‘White Elephant’ Event

NEW YORK, PRNewswire -Neiman Marcus celebrates the holiday season with a joyous White Elephant gifting event hosted by acclaimed comedian, talk show host and writer Amber Ruffin at Cucina Alba on Tuesday, Dec. 6. In the spirit of the Make the Moment holiday campaign and being creative in how you celebrate, guests participate in the third annual spirited fete. In addition to a selection of steal-worthy gifts curated to suit a range of price points and themes, there are a few twists on tradition that guarantee everyone goes home happy.

Notable attendees include Amber Ruffin, Joyelle Johnson, Evan Ross Katz, Sai de Silva, Tina Leung, Karen Blanchard, Alyssa Lenore, Monroe Steele, Cassie Thorpe and Melanie White.

Amber wears One33 Social Sequin Shawl-Collar Jacket, One33 Social High-Rise Straight-Leg Sequin Pants and FRAME Long Sleeve Bowtie Blouse all available at Neiman Marcus.

“I have been a fan of Neiman Marcus for years and I am thrilled to be hosting this year’s White Elephant event. It is important to have fun with fashion and to not take it too seriouslyand I love an opportunity to celebrate the holiday season in a fun, festive, original way. The gifts at Neiman Marcus are unparalleled and I am very inspired by the incredible range of products available- I cannot wait to start shopping for my family and friends.” says Amber Ruffin.

During the game, which is the first event at Cucina Alba’s new private dining space, guests preview and win some of Neiman Marcus’ ultimate gifts for the season, such as a Bottega Veneta handbag, Maison Francis Kurkdijan fragrance set, Versace bathrobe and slippers, Prada sunglasses, Gucci Snow Goggles and a Moncler beanie. The full list of covetable gifts here. Neiman Marcus introduces a few special surprises to the traditional game that upped the ante and excitement during the event. Featuring a wide range of products across various price points ($250, $100 and $50), Neiman Marcus curates the perfect assortment of gifts for everyone this holiday season.

Neiman Marcus is hosting White Elephant events across all 36 stores. Select customers are invited to join the luxury retailer for these exclusive, White Elephant celebrations hosted in gifting suites and private restaurant spaces. From exclusive fashion and beauty products to epicure and entertaining essentials, The Magazine has a collection of artfully crafted gift guides to take the stress out of holiday shopping. In addition to the expertly curated guide, Neiman Marcus style advisors are there to help create the best gifting moments, guiding customers every step of the way.

“The holidays are all about making moments

and who doesn’t love a spirited game of White Elephant? I look forward to this tradition with my friends every year, dying to know who ends up with the ultimate gift,” says Jodi Kahn, Vice President of Luxury Fashion, Neiman Marcus. “There is no better destination for gifting than Neiman Marcus and I start brainstorming ideas with my style advisor months in advance. I love finding the perfect pieces for friends and family- something I hope will surprise and excite them.”

To further highlight the range of offerings for seasonal gifting, Neiman Marcus creates a dedicated Instagram shop and Pinterest board featuring the White Elephant event gifts with a few additional customer favorites.

The Neiman Marcus curated gifting assortment is available now at Neiman Marcus stores and online at NeimanMarcus.com. Neiman Marcus customers can discover exclusive access, worldclass service, and one-of-a-kind experiences both online and in person. As a fashion authority and established industry leader, Neiman Marcus welcomes customers to visit our stores and explore private shopping appointments with expert style advisors. Neiman Marcus’ inCircle program is available to services such as gift wrapping, boxing, and more.

#NeimanMarcus | @neimanmarcus | #LiveYourLuxury

MasterClass Announces Naomi Campbell to Teach How to Take on Modeling and Life With Confidence

SAN FRANCISCO, PRNewswire -- MasterClass, the streaming platform where anyone can learn from the world’s best across a wide range of subjects, today announced that legendary supermodel Naomi Campbell will teach a class on modeling fundamentals. In her class, she will give members insight into the misconceptions of the modeling industry, share advice on how to handle rejection and give an inside look on how she is working to make fashion and modeling more inclusive. The class is available now exclusively on MasterClass, where subscribers get unlimited access to all 180+ instructors with an annual membership.

“Naomi is a legend, whose confidence, poise and fearlessness have helped her inspire and advocate for younger generations coming up in the fashion world and beyond,” said David Rogier, founder and CEO of MasterClass. “In her class, she teaches members how to harness their power and show up as their best selves, both in front of the camera and in everyday life.”

In her class, Campbell teaches members how to navigate the business of the modeling industry, experiment with poses, feel confident and develop a signature walk. For members wanting to break into the fashion industry, she gives insight into the business of modeling, from how to find an agent and handle contracts to the importance of building a versatile lookbook. Making it her mission to create space for diversity and inclusion in the modeling industry through efforts like mentorship, she works with four London-based fashion models who are new to the industry to demonstrate how to find their stride on the catwalk. Campbell also shares her personal journey and celebrates the famous Black models who paved the way for her career, showing the importance of advocating for your culture and community. Members will walk away feeling empowered to overcome their fears, own a room more confidently and stand strong for what they believe in.

“Most people view fashion as an untouchable, glamorous fantasy, but modeling at its best is a source of inspiration that shows you who you can be in your best form,” Campbell said. “This class is about personal empowerment and authenticity, culture and community, and the power of giving back to open the doors for those who come after us.”

Naomi Campbell is one of the most iconic supermodels in history, having caught her big break at just 15 years old. She has since graced the covers of more than 500 magazines, specifically as the first Black model to appear on the cover of Time, French, Russian, and British Vogue. She has appeared in campaigns for some of the most notable brands in fashion, including Burberry, Prada, Versace, Chanel and Louis Vuitton, and walked the runways for Azzedine Alaïa, Christian Dior and many others. In addition, Campbell is a fashion model pioneer and cultural advocate for the professional advancement of young Black women. As an activist, Campbell works alongside notable charities such as Fashion for Relief, Nelson Mandela Child Relief Fund and amfAR to improve the lives of those living with detrimental adversity and raise much-needed funds for AIDS research and resources.

Host Amber Ruffin. PRNewsFoto.

Naomi Campbell for MasterClass. Courtesy of MasterClass.

COMMUNITY VIOLENCE INTERVENTION COLLABORATIVE CELEBRATES ACCOMPLISHMENTS AT WHITE HOUSE

WASHINGTON, D.C. — On Thursday, Dec. 8, at the White House, the nation’s preeminent community violence intervention (CVI) organizations came together in a first-of-its-kind public safety summit to celebrate the unprecedented accomplishments of the White House-affiliated Community Violence Intervention Collaborative (CVIC or the Collaborative) and the group’s shared success in putting the “public” back in public safety.

Created by the White House and anchored by Hyphen, CVIC has, over the past 18 months, increased the reach of evidence-based, community-led strategies to reduce gun violence and make 17 cities and counties across the country safer. Thursday’s gathering at the White House marked the first time CVI leaders––45 of the country’s leading public safety experts and CVI practitioners––have gathered at such a scale and in recognition by the highest level of the federal government.

The Collaborative leveraged the American Rescue Plan’s unprecedented federal investment in CVI, strategic philanthropic investments, and state and local funding to advance a single, ambitious goal: establishing a truly durable national CVI infrastructure to stem the tide of gun violence now and over the long term.

“Community violence intervention is a key component to reducing crime, improving public safety, and combating gun violence. The Biden-Harris Administration is proud to have made a historic commitment to supporting proven methods and community-based groups that play such a crucial role in achieving public safety,” said Julie Chávez Rodriguez, Senior Advisor and Assistant to President Biden and Director of the White House Office of Intergovernmental Affairs. “Giving support to the critically important and deeply impactful work performed by those who understand the causes of violence is part of the Administration’s comprehensive approach that treats violence as a public health issue. The end of the year marks the beginning of a new chapter in locally led efforts to create communities where people can feel safe and thrive.”

How Hyphen Brought CVI to the Forefront of the Public

Safety Agenda

While state- and local-level public-private partnerships are becoming increasingly common, such collaborations with the federal government are much less so, which is why they require an experienced team to develop, launch, and execute them.

Hyphen served as a conduit between the Biden-Harris Administration and philanthropic leaders to collaborate in efforts that augment a public safety model that involves police and justice system, community groups, and health-care organizations—a strategy that builds capacity for the years and decades ahead.

Hyphen drew on its team’s deep expertise and experience gained from serving in the Obama administration, working with influential philanthropists, and leading an advocacy organization. With their steadfast leadership and dogged stewardship of CVIC, all levels of government have come to recognize what has long been known—policing alone is necessary but insufficient to reduce gun violence. Strong, holistic, and well-resourced community-based programs are needed to stamp out violent crime and achieve lasting public safety.

“At Hyphen, we know that achieving a truly just democracy isn’t something government or philanthropists or communities can do on their own—it requires investment from all parties,” said Archana Sahgal, Founder and President of Hyphen. “CVIC has shown that we can make communities across the country safer by employing a holistic approach to public safety — one that supports the expertise, skills, and lived experiences community-based anti-violence organizations bring to the table. Our goal from the beginning has been to build capacity for CVI groups by leveraging federal and philanthropic investment; and CVIC comes to a close, we are confident that they have the infrastructure to build upon and achieve long-term success.”

18 Months of Historic Achievement & Accomplishments

It is increasingly rare for transformative policy initiatives, particularly in a charged environment, to be implemented with such speed and take root in every corner of the country. CVIC is a

noteworthy standout, doing just that.

In just 18 months, CVIC scaled evidence-based, community-led strategies to reduce gun violence and enhance public safety for children, families, and communities across the country. With support from 13 prominent philanthropies, CVIC provided training, technical assistance, and peer learning to help community-based organizations expand their efforts and increase their impact.

Specifically, CVIC has:

Partnered with stakeholders in 17 diverse jurisdictions across the country: Atlanta, GA; Austin, TX; Baltimore, MD; Baton Rouge, LA; Chicago, IL; Detroit, MI; King County, WA; Los Angeles, CA; Memphis, TN; Miami-Dade, FL; Minneapolis & St. Paul, MN; Newark, NJ; Rapid City, SD; St. Louis, MO; Philadelphia, PA; and Washington, DC.

Multiplied a modest $7.4 million in philanthropic funding into hundreds of millions of dollars in public funding commitments for CVI, totaling $420 million including $250 million in Chicago, $50 million in Baltimore, $19 million in Newark, and $14.2 million in Baton Rouge.

Created an innovative training and technical assistance (TTA) program for local CVI groups to help them build solid organizational infrastructure, develop a sustainable and diversified funding base (including federal grants), optimize the use of data and technology, and expand the scope, scale, and impact of their ongoing CVI work.

Advised and supported municipal offices of violence prevention (OVPs) and mayoral staff to help them develop their CVI strategies.

Created a certification program on the best practices, standard operations, procedures, and protocols of street outreach and violence interruption for non-traditional CVI practitioners like former gang members and returning citizens.

Facilitated coordination and peer exchanges within and across jurisdictions to provide opportunities for local CVI groups to learn from one another and build relationships with other public safety stakeholders, including law enforcement.

Olympic Medalist Jackie Joyner-Kersee Wraps “The Lincoln Laureates” 2022 Season

(Springfield, IL) As a world champion athlete in the heptathlon and long jump, Olympian Jackie Joyner-Kersee traveled the globe with a goal larger than sports: to return to her roots in Illinois and build a youth center to serve the community that raised her.

During this final episode of the 2022 season of The Lincoln Laureates, listeners hear the insights of a leader who preaches the power of resiliency.

“We were always there for each other, but we pushed each other,” said Laureate Joyner-Kersee when discussing growing up in what was a very competitive athletic family.“I once beat my brother Bob in a foot race in front of his friends, but he got the last laugh. He was the first in the family to win a gold medal. And I only got silver at the 1984 Olympics.”

Laureate Joyner-Kersee also suggests the heptathlon as a metaphor for your journey through life, “You learn that everything is not going to go as planned. How do you adapt? How do you adjust? You have to start each day and each event with a fresh mind set to achieve your ultimate goal.”

Promoted across the Lincoln Academy of Illinois’ social channels (Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn,) The Lincoln Laureates” is also available through Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and Stitcher, with streaming available through the TuneIn App and via voice command. https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-lincoln-laureates/ id1553528425]]

Recorded in July of this year, the episode would be the last guest host appearance by award-winning broadcast journalist, syndicated radio personality, and Radio Hall of Famer Jim Bohannon. Bohannon, courageously battling cancer at the time of the interview, passed away in October of this year. The Lincoln Academy of Illinois is greatly appreciative of Bohannon’s frequent guest hosting appearances for the podcast series, which debuted in 2021.

Created as a way for the Lincoln Academy of Illinois to showcase Lincoln Laureates to a global audience, the podcast serves as an audio textbook that deepens the honor the Laureates have brought to Illinois. The Lincoln Laureates podcast is a production of EarSight Studios, Todd Manley supervising producer. Lincoln Academy of Illinois’ Executive Director Leanne Barnhart and Academy

Americans are Turning to Side Hustles to Combat Inflation

(Family Features) As inflation increases, many Americans are looking for ways to make some extra cash to reach financial goals faster, save for a big purchase or simply make ends meet. In fact, 41% of Americans need additional income from sources like side hustles, according to a Bankrate survey, up from 31% in 2019.

The rise of the gig economy and a variety of side hustle options may be a solution for some. One option, the Spark Driver platform, powers delivery services for Walmart, Sam’s Club and other retailers, allowing drivers to deliver everything from groceries and cleaning supplies to tools and home decor. Available in more than 600 cities and all 50 states, the platform allows independent contractors to earn money by delivering or shopping and delivering orders in flexible, convenient time windows of their choosing.

What is a Side Hustle?

Different from full-time or part-time employment, a side hustle is a flexible way to provide services while being your own boss. You control which opportunities you want to take and can independently supplement your primary income or bridge the gap between jobs. Side hustles can even provide opportunities for people who can’t work traditional jobs. In fact, 93% of Americans have a side hustle, according to research from insuranks.com, and 44% of survey respondents said they’re doing it to make ends meet. Gig opportunities, like shopping orders and delivering goods using your personal vehicle, are increasingly popular as side hustles.

Benefits of Side Hustles

While most people turn to side hustles because of the potential for additional earnings, there are other benefits that can make them a fit for you and your situation, such as:

* Flexibility and Convenience: Available almost anywhere at times that work for your schedule, side hustles allow you to be your own boss and earn extra cash when you want. Be sure to pick one that fits your schedule and can be done at any time. Many offer different windows of time to complete the service and let you choose where you’re willing to travel to, which makes it easy to plan around other obligations.

* Earning Potential: Many people turn to side hustles as a supplement to full-time positions with specific, money-oriented goals in mind. For example, most drivers on the Spark Driver platform drive as a secondary source of income. In order to reach a desired goal, it’s important to know how much you can expect to earn. When receiving an offer, the platform will show the minimum amount you earn for completing the delivery, so drivers know their earnings before accepting offers. Most deliveries also allow for tips, and incentives and referrals create additional opportunities for increasing earnings.

“The Spark Driver platform has made a huge difference in my life,” driver Christina Hinssen said. “It gives me the flexibility to make deliveries when I want and I can spend more time with my daughter. It has given me extra cash to pay off my car and make extra house payments to get my house paid down.”

* Simplicity: The ideal side hustle is one that can be done without heavy investment or training. Many gig opportunities offer quick sign-up processes through easy-to-use apps and only require a background check, smartphone, valid driver’s license and operational vehicle.

Learn more about how to make extra cash through gig opportunities by visiting drive4spark.com or downloading the app.

Regent Dennis Lyle are the podcast’s Executive Producers, with Lincoln Laureate and award-winning broadcast journalist Bill Kurtis serving as consultant and announcer for the podcast series.

Established in 1964 by (then) Governor Otto Kerner, the Lincoln Academy of Illinois is a statewide organization created to recognize and honor those leaders of today who have contributed to the “Betterment of Humanity.”

Jordin Sparks Shines a Spotlight on Cantu Beauty In the Community as Brand Ambassador

STAMFORD, Conn., PRNewswire -- Award-winning hair care brand, Cantu Beauty, has announced Grammy-nominated, multi-platinum singer/songwriter Jordin Sparks as the brand’s ambassador. As a longtime fan of the brand’s hydrating conditioning treatments and styling gels, Sparks is joining forces with Cantu to help shine a spotlight on the brand’s community initiatives that give back to young women all over the world, specifically with the brand’s partnership with global nonprofit, Women Empowering Nations.

“It’s a dream to be working with Cantu to help uplift the next generation of women who are on their own unique and powerful journeys to building their bright futures,” Sparks shares. “Beyond the products, Cantu really does so much for the community specifically for women empowerment in which I am super passionate about.”

Sparks officially kicked off the partnership last month as she made a surprise virtual visit to the final 11 young women who were awarded a spot in the Cantu GLOW Global Fellowship, a four-month hands-on experience in the beauty industry with Women Empowering Nations. The fellowship concluded with a capstone and group travel seminar to Accra, Ghana this month where each young woman was immersed in four areas within the beauty industry — consumer, concept, commercial, and campaign — allowing them to experience a beauty campaign from concept to shelf.

“We’re so honored to have Jordin Sparks join the Cantu Crew as our brand ambassador,” says Dametria Kinsley, Cantu’s Global Vice President of Marketing. “She has been a pillar in Black and Brown communities for years through her own philanthropic efforts and we’re excited to join forces to extend addi -

tional resources to women all around the world.”

The Cantu GLOW Global Fellowship is just one of Cantu Beauty’s commitments to elevate their communities through bespoke events, programming, and both financial and intellectual resources. This year, the brand continued a multi-year relationship with nonprofit Gyrl Wonder, to support Black and Latina communities by nurturing the next generation of female leaders from curl to toe. Additionally, the brand celebrated its second year of Cantu Elevate, the brandowned entrepreneurship accelerator program for Black female-led businesses in partnership with BrainTrust Founders Studio.

For more details on Cantu Beauty’s community initiatives or to join the Cantu Crew, follow @cantubeauty on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter or visit them at cantubeauty.com.

It’s Cantu Beauty’s mission to celebrate you in all your glory. Whether you’re rocking coils, curls, waves, or straight tresses, Cantu designs products specifically with you and your hair’s versatility in mind. Cantu’s collection of award-winning products is inspired by beautifully textured hair to help you achieve any look you desire. With a one-of-a-kind formula, Cantu helps achieve everything from cutting-edge looks to classic styles. Cantu Beauty is a part of PDC Wellness & Personal Care. For more information, visit pdcwellness.com.

6 HBCU Marching Bands Selected to Perform in 2023 Honda Battle of the Bands

TORRANCE, PRNewswire -- The votes are in and six marching bands have been selected to perform at the 2023 Honda Battle of the Bands (HBOB), the nation’s premier showcase for Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCU) marching bands and dance teams. HBOB marks its 18th year as one of the largest celebrations of Black culture and musical excellence, returning to a live event format and also livestreamed on February 18.

The 2023 HBOB Invitational Showcase will take place at Alabama State University in Montgomery, Ala., bringing the music and excitement to an HBCU campus for the first time with high-energy performances from the following six bands:

Alabama State University Mighty Marching Hornets – 7th appearance

Langston University Marching Pride – 4th appearance

Morgan State University Magnificent Marching Machine – 1st appearance

Savannah State University Powerhouse of the South – 7th appearance

Texas Southern University Ocean of Soul – 3rd appearance

Virginia State University Trojan Explosion – 10th appearance

Each HBCU school represented by the six bands will receive an institutional grant from Honda to support their music education programs, as well as an all-expenses-paid trip to the Invitational Showcase.

Honda invited all HBCU marching bands to participate in the 2022-2023 HBOB program. After fans nationwide cast more than 100,000 online votes, the final six bands were selected through a voting process that included HBOB fans, HBCU band directors and students, and Honda representatives. The four bands with the most votes automatically secured their spots in the lineup, while the other two bands were selected by the HBOB committee.

“Congratulations to all of the finalists! Honda is excited to carry on the HBOB tradition of bringing together students, alumni and fans to recognize the talents

of these spectacular marching bands and dance teams,” said Yvette Hunsicker, vice president of Corporate Social Responsibility and Inclusion & Diversity at American Honda Motor Co., Inc. “For over 30 years Honda has supported HBCUs in their unique and critical role of providing higher education and opportunities for advancement to the Black community, so hosting HBOB on an HBCU campus for the first time feels like coming home.

“We are very excited to host the 2023 Honda Battle of the Bands Showcase and provide a buzzing atmosphere of HBCU pride and culture on Alabama State University’s campus,” said ASU President Dr. Quinton T. Ross, Jr.

Rickey Smiley, legendary comedian, author, television host, award-winning radio host and Alabama State

University alum, will serve as the host for the 2023 HBOB live event. Loni Love, the Emmy and two-time NAACP Image Award-winning host, comedian, actress, author and Prairie View A&M University alumna, will host the livestream.

“It is an honor to host the iconic Honda Battle of the Bands event, which has a long history of inspiring and energizing fans of music and Black culture across the country,” said Smiley. “HBOB is a one-of-a-kind experience for these talented student musicians and will be an unforgettable day for everyone.”

Ticket & Event Information

Tickets for the HBOB Invitational Showcase are on sale at www.hondabattleofthebands.com.

Fans can join the conversation using #HBOB and follow along as the final six bands’ journey commences to the Invitational Showcase on official HBOB social media channels:

Facebook – Facebook.com/HondaBattleoftheBands Instagram – @the_honda / Instagram.com/the_honda Twitter – @The_Honda / Twitter.com/The_Honda Honda and Historically Black Colleges and Universities

For over 30 years, Honda has supported the success and dreams of Historically Black College and University (HBCU) students through initiatives including the Honda Campus All-Star Challenge and Honda Battle of the Bands. These programs provide unforgettable experiences and opportunities for HBCU students, including meeting and networking with peers from other HBCU schools. Honda has impacted the lives of more than 200,000 students and awarded over $14 million in grants in support of HBCU education programs and facilities improvements.

To advance its leading investment in HBCUs, Honda is a member of the HBCU Partnership Challenge, a Congressional Bipartisan HBCU Caucus initiative that brings together government, industry and HBCUs to create strategic, more sustainable HBCU partnerships. Honda also has partnered with the Thurgood Marshall College Fund to provide annual scholarship funding to support HBCU students pursuing an education in engineering, supply chain management and manufacturing-related fields.

Award-winning hair care brand, Cantu Beauty, has announced Grammy-nominated, multi-platinum singer/songwriter Jordin Sparks as the brand’s ambassador. PRNewsfoto/Cantu Beauty

Six HBCU marching bands will bring the music and excitement to Montgomery, Ala. when Honda Battle of the Bands returns live on Feb. 18. PRNewsfoto/Honda.

Across Chicago

Photos by L.M. Warbington Photography

twenty-four (24) hours. No fee shall be paid by the mortgagee acquiring the residential real estate pursuant to its credit bid at the sale or by any mortgagee, judgment creditor, or other lienor acquiring the residential real estate whose rights in and to the residential real estate arose prior to the sale. The subject property is subject to general real estate taxes, special assessments, or special taxes levied against said real estate and is offered for sale without any representation as to quality or quantity of title and without recourse to Plaintiff and in "AS IS" condition. The sale is further subject to confirmation by the court. Upon payment in full of the amount bid, the purchaser will receive a Certificate of Sale that will entitle the purchaser to a deed to the real estate after confirmation of the sale. The property will NOT be open for inspection and plaintiff makes no representation as to the condition of the property. Prospective bidders are admonished to check the court file to verify all information. If this property is a condominium unit, the purchaser of the unit at the foreclosure sale, other than a mortgagee, shall pay the assessments and the legal fees required by The Condominium Property Act, 765 ILCS 605/9(g)(1) and (g)(4). If this property is a condominium unit which is part of a common interest community, the purchaser of the unit at the foreclosure sale other than a mortgagee shall pay the assessments required by The Condominium Property Act, 765 ILCS 605/18.5(g-1).IF YOU ARE THE MORTGAGOR (HOMEOWNER), YOU HAVE THE RIGHT TO REMAIN IN POSSESSION FOR 30 DAYS AFTER ENTRY OF AN ORDER OF POSSESSION, IN ACCORDANCE WITH SECTION 15-1701(C) OF THE ILLINOIS MORTGAGE FORECLOSURE LAW. You will need a photo identification issued by a government agency (driver's license, passport, etc.) in order to gain entry into our building and the foreclosure sale room in Cook County and the same identification for sales held at other county venues where The Judicial Sales Corporation conducts foreclosure sales. For information, contact The sales clerk, LOGS Legal Group LLP Plaintiff's Attorneys, 2121 WAUKEGAN RD., SUITE 301, Bannockburn, IL, 60015 (847) 291-1717 For information call between the hours of 1pm - 3pm.. Please refer to file number 22096047. THE JUDICIAL SALES CORPORATION One South Wacker Drive, 24th Floor, Chicago, IL 60606-4650 (312) 236-SALE You can also visit The Judicial Sales Corporation at www.tjsc.com for a 7 day status report of pending sales. LOGS Legal Group LLP 2121 WAUKEGAN RD., SUITE 301 Bannockburn IL, 60015 847-291-1717 E-Mail: ILNotices@logs.com Attorney File No. 22-096047 Attorney Code. 42168 Case Number: 22 CH 3457 TJSC#: 42-4068 NOTE: Pursuant to the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act, you are advised that Plaintiff's attorney is deemed to be a debt collector attempting to collect a debt and any information obtained will be used for that purpose. Case # 22 CH 3457 I3209127

HUD/BANK FORECLOSURES CITY & SUBURBS

Call: FRED D. CLINK (773) 294-5870 realty services consortium 3+ Bedroom HOMES FOR SALE SELLER FINANCING Call: FRED D. CLINK (773) 294-5870 REALTY SERVICES CONSORTIUM

PUBLIC NOTICE

PUBLICATION NOTICE OF COURT DATE FOR REQUEST FOR NAME CHANGE (ADULT)

STATE OF ILLINOIS, CIRCUIT COURT COOK COUNTY. Request of: NAAMAN LOGAN. Case Number 2022CONC001348. There will be a court date on my Request to change my name from: NAAMAN ISRAEL LOGAN to the new name of: NAAMAN BOAZ LOGAN . The court date will be held: on Jan 5, 2023 at 10:30 a.m. at 50 W. Washington, Chicago Cook, in Courtroom# 200M.

REQUEST

FOR NAME CHANGE (ADULT)

STATE OF ILLINOIS, CIRCUIT COURT COOK COUNTY. Request of: NAAMAN ISREAL LOGAN Case Number 2022CONC001348. I ask the court to enter an order to change my name, and I state: 1. My current name is: NAAMAN ISREAL LOGAN

I wish my name to be changed to: NAAMAN BOAZ ISREAL

My address is listed at the end of the Request.

I have lived continuously in Illinois for at least 6 months begining: 12/16/1976

My birth date is: 12/16/1976

My place of birth is: Chicago Cook Illinois U.S.A

I have not been adjudicated or convicted of a felony or misdemeanor in Illinois or any other state for which a pardon has not been granted. 8. I do not have an arrest for which charges have not been filed. 9. I do not have a pending felony or misdemeanor charge. 10. I have not been convicted of or placed on probation for a crime which requires me to register as a sex offender in Illinois or any other state. 11. I have not been convicted of or placed on probation for identity theft or aggravated identity theft in Illinois or any other state. 12. I have not been convicted of or placed on probation for a felony in Illinois or any other state. 13. If you checked “have” in 10, 11, OR 12 complete the following: Description of Conviction

of Conviction or Probation Sentence Received ( include parole and supervised release)

Sentence Completed Pardoned? (Yes oir No) I certify that everthing in the Request for Name Change (Adult) is true and correct. I understand that making a false statement on this form is perjury and has penalties provided by law under 735ILCS5/1-109.

/s/ NAAMAN ISRAEL LOGAN, 4141 Cambridge Circle, Country Club Hills, Illinois 60478 (334) 5384902.

VERIFICATION BY WITNESS

I WILLIAM RAMON JACKSON certify that what is stated above and on the Request for Name

Change (Adult) is true and correct to the best of my knowledge and belief. I understand that making a false statement on this form is perjury and has penalities provided by law under 735 IL CS 5/1-109.

WILLIAM JACKSON, 38 TWILIGHT LANE, CALUMET CITY, ILLIOIS 60409 (773) 454-1825.

HOLIDAY SEASON

‘Tis the Season to Save on Holiday Essentials

(Statepoint) This holiday season, stretch your budget when shopping for gifts, including toys and stocking stuffers, as well as last-minute needs, meal prep and more!

Spend more time creating memories and less time preparing with a few tips from experts at Dollar General.

Joyful Gifts

One of the best parts of the holidays may be seeing the excited reaction of someone opening a gift, especially children. Save on some of America’s most popular name brand toys at Dollar General, which recently announced an enhanced 2022 toy selection from popular brands such as Melissa & Doug, LEGO, Fisher-Price, VTech, Play-Doh, Barbie, Pokémon, L.O.L. Surprise!, ZURU 5 Surprise and more. Most toys are priced at $10 or less. Another option for the person who has everything is a gift card. Available at neighborhood stores, gift cards provide the recipient with various ways to enjoy your thoughtfulness!

Dashing Decor

To transform the home, consider choosing one holiday color palette to stay consistent in each room. Color options may include gold and silver, various shades of green, red and green or blue and silver. Next, shop for decorations in your preferred palette and sprinkle throughout the home. Ornaments, bows, ribbons and stockings aren’t just for the tree and fireplace. Add accents to the kitchen table, front porch, living room surfaces and everywhere else for more holiday spirit throughout the home.

Festive Food

The holidays are often synonymous with family meals, get togethers with friends and coworkers and seasonal dishes. For all household essentials, such as canned foods, milk, bread, eggs, baking items and more, consider shopping at a discount retailer to save in one convenient shopping trip. Additionally, consider using healthier variations of the season’s comforting and tasty dishes with DG Better For You recipes found at dollargeneral.com. Created by a registered dietician and nutritionist, these recipes include options like risotto and hamburger soup and all use ingredients available at every Dollar General store.

The holidays are a busy time for everyone, but keep your sights on the essentials! Simplify shopping by creating a signature theme for your home décor, finding deals on gifts for everyone on your list, and serving something easy and delicious for the whole crew. Plan ahead this year and enjoy the extra time you’ll have celebrating the season with friends and family!

(StatePoint) We live in a time when digital communication dominates the way we relate to one another, with many people opting for the speed and convenience of texts and emails over the intention and beauty of handwritten cards, letters or keepsakes.

Even around the holidays, people tend to rely on e-cards, social media updates and other digital tools to do the heavy lifting of yuletide greetings. But it doesn’t have to be that way. By being intentional about it, we can share our sentiments in a way that is much more meaningful and long-lasting.

This season, write your holiday cards by hand, then get inspired by these holiday gift ideas, all of which tap into the pre-internet age to embrace the art of handwritten communication:

• Jazzed up Jewelry: A beautiful piece of jewelry will always be appreciated, but you can truly make the gift special, unique and 100% their own by having it engraved with a special someone’s signature. Whether you gift a watch, bracelet or necklace, adding a loved one’s John Hancock to the item will make a statement and give new meaning to the concept of a “signature accessory.”

• Deck out a Diary: Keeping a journal or diary is an act of self-care and a beautiful way to preserve one’s thoughts, memories, poetry, lyrics, artwork, doodles and more. Gift the tools needed to start and maintain this good-for-you habit. From heavy, serious leather-bound journals with a vintage vibe to compact floral notebooks that fit into a small bag, journals come in all styles, sizes and colors, so find one that will foster creativity in your loved one and consider inscribing its inside flap with a personal message or quote. Pair the journal with a smooth-writing, long-lasting gel ink pen, like the G2 from Pilot, which features black and blue archival-quality ink to ensure their written words stand the test of time and can be appreciated for generations to come.

• Memorialize a Meal: Do you have a special recipe that has been passed down from a loved one’s kitchen? Repurpose a treasured handwritten recipe and have it carved into a cutting board or imprinted on a tea towel. You’ll not only be gifting a useful item for the kitchen, but you’ll also be hon-

oring a special dish, allowing a legacy to live on.

• Upgrade and Inspire: Make sure your loved one is ready for any writing task with the gift of a timeless, sophisticated writing tool. Pilot’s classic Vanishing Point fountain pen features a unique, retractable design and a rhodium plated 18K gold writing nib. Making a thoughtful present for any special occasion, the Vanishing Point comes in an elegant gift box and includes an ink cartridge and converter for easy refilling.

Celebrate the holidays by speaking from the heart, and let your season’s greetings and gifts become treasured, long-lasting heirlooms.

Happier holidays are within your grasp.

Spend and save smarter, all in one place. With impressive digital tools from Bank of America, you’ve got more power than you think.

Sometimes, the most wonderful time of the year can feel anything but wonderful. So if you need help with your business, financial future or just making paycheckto-paycheck go further — we’re here. With personalized products, simple solutions and experts in Chicago, you can keep life moving the way you need it to.

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Rita Sola Cook President, Bank of America Chicago