South End Citizen 12-29-2021

Y O U R S O U R C E F O R C O R O N AV I R U S N E W S

Citizen Week of Dec. 29, 2021

| Vol. 54 | No. 47 | www.citizennewspapergroup.com

SOUTH END

Sheldon Smith, founder of Dovetail Project, with a graduate of the program aimed to make young fathers better men and better members of their communities. Photos provided by Aileen Bedeau

THE DOVETAIL PROJECT’S PROGRAM SETS OUT TO IMPROVE YOUNG FATHERS’ LIVES Sheldon Smith was 21 years old when he started the Dovetail Project. The organization’s mission is to provide Black and brown fathers with skills to make them better men, better fathers and better residents of their communities. PAGE 2

Year in Review 2021

FASHION: A Pea In The Pod® Opens New Concept Stores In Chicago And New York City

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Serving The Black Community For Decades |

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NEWS briefly BUCKNER MEASURE INCREASING ACCOUNTABILITY FOR ELECTED CHICAGO SCHOOL BOARD SIGNED INTO LAW A measure to strengthen the upcoming elected school board for the Chicago Public Schools (CPS), sponsored by state Rep. Kam Buckner, D-Chicago, was recently signed into law by Gov. JB Pritzker.

“For far too long, students and parents in Chicago had a school system that was not only unelected, but unaccountable,” Buckner said. “As Chicago prepares to transition from a school system controlled by political insiders to one elected by the people, it is paramount that we ensure that CPS enters a new era of accountability and transparency.”

Buckner sponsored Senate Bill 1784 to strengthen the elected school board law for CPS that was enacted earlier this year. SB 1784 requires CPS to commission an independent financial review with a report due to the General Assembly, Illinois State Board of Education, and other stakeholders by Oct. 2022. The measure also clarifies that Chicago school board members will serve without a salary or benefits.

Additionally, the law institutes a moratorium on school closures effective immediately and lasting until elected school board members take office.

JESSE WHITE EXTENDS DRIVER’S LICENSE AND ID CARD EXPIRATION DATES UNTIL MARCH 31, 2022 Illinois Secretary of State Jesse White announced that expiration dates for driver’s licenses and ID cards have been extended an additional three months – from Jan. 1, 2022, to March 31, 2022. This extension does not apply to commercial driver’s licenses (CDL) and CDL learner’s permits. White noted this will be the final extension.

“During the pandemic, my office has continued to serve the public, including face-to-face transactions, in a safe and responsible manner,” said White. “This extension is necessary as my office continues to address the heavy customer volume caused by the COVID-19 pandemic through expanded online services and the introduction of appointments at select Driver Services facilities.”

Public Act 102-678 authorizes the Secretary of State’s office to extend driver’s license and ID card expiration dates to March 31, 2022.

Throughout the pandemic, White’s office has launched a diversified effort to address the heavy customer demand at facilities caused by the ongoing pandemic by requiring appointments at select facilities and expanding online services. These efforts include: Requiring appointments at select Driver Services facilities for behind-the-wheel road tests, REAL IDs, standard driver’s licenses and ID cards. Customers may visit ilsos.gov for a list of participating facilities, as well as to schedule an appointment. New appointment slots will be available each day at ilsos.gov.

Expanding remote renewal for driver’s license and ID card holders. Since fall, the office has been mailing letters to eligible customers with expired driver’s licenses and ID cards requiring them to renew online, by phone or by mail. The office estimates that this will eliminate the need for approximately 1 million people to visit a facility.

Urging the public to consider using online services at ilsos.gov instead of visiting a facility for transactions such as purchasing license plate stickers, obtaining a duplicate driver’s license or ID card, and renewing driver’s licenses and ID cards, including REAL IDs, for those who are eligible.

As a reminder, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security has extended the federal REAL ID deadline to May 3, 2023.

The Dovetail Project’s Program sets out to improve young fathers’ lives Continued from page 1

BY TIA CAROL JONES

Sheldon Smith was 21 years old when he started the Dovetail Project. The organization’s mission is to provide Black and brown fathers with skills to make them better men, better fathers and better residents of their communities.

Smith’s parents were both teenagers when he was born.

His father was in and out of his life. He wanted to do something to support young fathers ages 17-24.

The Dovetail Project’s outreach team goes out and recruits young fathers who need help and support. Young fathers who are selected to go through a program where they learn parenting skills, life skills and felony street law, which is equal parts family law and the criminal justice system. When the young men complete the program, they receive a job, a GED or a trade, along with a $500 stipend and one year of case management.

“We know working with dads and teaching dads is one thing, but another thing is for them to take what they’re learning and utilize it effectively to be better,” Smith said.

Having the resources and the opportunities available to the young fathers at the end of the program enables them to impact their families and their communities.

Since 2012, the Dovetail Project has serviced more than 540 young men. During the COVID-19 pandemic, the organization also launched the Dovetail Relief Fund. It has impacted thousands of families by providing essential items necessary for them to live day-to-day. In addition to food, back-to-school clothes and shoes, it has provided turkeys for Thanksgiving and trees for Christmas.

Going into 2022, the Dovetail Project wants to recruit more fathers to enroll in the program.

During 2020, it had to shut down the program and this year, it opened programming

The Dovetail Project teaches young fathers, ages 17-24, life skills and parenting skills. At the end of the program the young men have a GED or a trade and receive a $500 stipend, along with one year of case management. Photos provided by Aileen Bedeau

back up. Dovetail also is looking forward to impacting more families through its relief fund.

“We get a chance to see so many mothers and fathers and grandparents who are in need during that time. Our whole goal at the end of the day is to impact families. We’ve been able to do it through the Dovetail Project for the last 12 years. But, for the last 18-24 months, through the fatherhood relief fund, we’ve been able to quadruple that impact to include thousands of families,” Smith said.

The young fathers who participate in the program experience joy, excitement and love.

They also are able to receive opportunities they might not otherwise receive.

Corporate partners have stepped up to provide fathers in the program with shopping sprees and game tickets. It gives

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them more exposure to experiences and enables them to see something outside of what they are used to. Smith is grateful for the endorsement from corporate partners. That support has allowed the organization to grow.

Smith is optimistic about 2022 and what it will bring for the Dovetail Project and the Relief Fund. He is also optimistic about what the new year will bring for the young men and the families who participate in the program.

“I’ve been doing this work over the last 12 years. I’ve made the work of young fathers and families my life’s work. I think those are great endorsements to have when you are a small nonprofit looking to grow,” he said.

Recently, Uggs provided Smith an opportunity to tell the story of the Dovetail Project on

a global platform. Those things are great, but Smith doesn’t take time to dwell on them, he starts to think about the next opportunity for the program.

“I think most founders, that’s the experience they have, too. I don’t think it will really hit me, with everything we’ve been able to do, until I retire from this work and I’m able to make a documentary and look back on all of the impact,” he said.

What keeps Smith going is the smile of the children of the young fathers he sees at the graduation of the program. Or, hearing fathers who are being acknowledged for their accomplishments for the first time in a long time. He takes in those moments and is grateful for the opportunities to make an impact God has given him.

For more information about the Dovetail Project, visit https://thedovetailproject.org.

CITIZEN | South End | Week of Dec. 29, 2021

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NEWS

Give Blck Announces Rebrand as Giving Gap and Sets New, Bold Goals NEW YORK PRNewswire -- Give Blck, a digital platform that raises the visibility of a steadily-growing list of now over 800 Black-founded and Black-led nonprofits, announced the launch of a new name and brand, Giving Gap. The change comes as the company sets audacious goals to eradicate the dire and systemic disparities in philanthropic giving.

“Charitable investment in Black-founded nonprofits is a critical – yet often forgotten – piece to tackling systemic racism,” said Giving Gap Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Aisha Alexander-Young. “Our new identity sheds a light on the existing giving gap, its impact on Black communities and the need to tackle it in order to advance racial equity, especially as Black-founded organizations are more likely to center the needs of the Black communities they serve, employ Black people and empower Black leaders.”

The organization continues to build upon a strong foundation laid by Giving Gap’s founders, who launched the platform in September 2020 amidst the global demands to address systemic inequities. Since August 2021, CEO Aisha Alexander-Young has been leading Giving Gap’s efforts to strengthen partnerships, cultivate the Board of Directors and identify opportunities for expanding the donor platform and leveraging synergies among donors and Black-founded organizations.

“Our next chapter as Giving Gap marks a critical point in our organization’s trajectory to accelerate our revolutionary movement advancing equity for Black communities,” expressed founder and Giving Gap Board President Christina Lewis. “We’re thrilled with the continued progress and evolution of our mission, and we’re ready to close the giving gap.”

Black-founded philanthropic organizations and causes are disproportionately underfunded as they only receive $1 billion out of the $450 billion given to charities annually. Recently, Giving Gap has also set new goals to galvanize an additional billion dollars in funding and in-kind support as well as mobilize one million individuals to support Black-founded nonprofits with the goal to close the giving gap.

“We’re grateful for Giving Gap and its commitment to showcasing the life-changing work Black-founded nonprofits are doing. After being discovered on Giving Gap’s platform, CHOOSE 180 received $150,000 from the Public Welfare Foundation to support our work for the Black community,” said Sean Goode, Executive Director of CHOOSE 180.

What started as a spreadsheet has evolved into a trailblazing movement with the help of Giving Gap’s supporters, including Ford Foundation, Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation and Microsoft, and partnerships with organizations like GivingTuesday, Charity Navigator and more.

“Giving is a powerful way that each one of us can use our personal agency to build the kind of world we wish to see,” said Asha Curran, CEO of GivingTuesday. “Giving Gap offers an important opportunity for givers of all types to lift up historically excluded and under-resourced organizations that are working year-round to strengthen communities and drive long-term, systemic change.”

“At Charity Navigator, we believe that injustice cannot be tolerated and as such, it is critical to actively address racial inequities in giving,” stated Charity Navigator President & CEO Michael Thatcher. “That’s why we are looking forward to continue growing our partnership with Giving Gap and supporting their ground-breaking endeavor to raise awareness and funds for Black-founded nonprofits.”

Work & Co, which designed and developed the original site that launched in the fall of 2020, also led the new Giving Gap brand identity and redesigned website. The name change is effective immediately.

Giving Gap is dedicated to ensuring sustained commitments to and elevating the visibility of local Black-led and Black-founded nonprofits serving Black communities. To date, over 800 organizations are part of its wide network across an array of sectors from Arts & Culture, Career Mobility, Criminal Justice, Environment, Technology and more. For additional details visit givinggap.org or @givinggap on social media.

Rush Introduces Bipartisan Bill to Allow SNAP to Cover Hot and Prepared Foods WASHINGTON — U.S. Representatives Bobby L. Rush (D-Ill.), Grace Meng (D-N.Y.), and Brian Fitzpatrick (R-Pa.), announced their introduction of the bipartisan SNAP PLUS Act of 2021 (H.R. 6338), legislation that would allow Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits to be used to purchase hot foods and certain prepared foods, which are currently not covered by SNAP. 40.8 million Americans rely on SNAP benefits, according to the most recent public data.

“I grew up in a single-parent household. My mother worked hard to provide for us, but my family was always on the edge financially, and at times, we relied on government benefits to get by,” said Rep. Rush. “I remember many times when I would not have a decent meal for dinner.

So, I understand the importance of food security programs firsthand. It is clear to me — and to families I have heard from who are facing food insecurity in the 1st District and across the nation — that the exclusion of hot and prepared foods under current SNAP criteria is impractical, misguided, and unwise.”

“The fact that you can use SNAP to

purchase a frozen, breaded chicken, but not a hot rotisserie chicken or a salad from a grocery store salad bar, frankly, makes no sense,” Rush continued. “This restriction is most harmful to individuals who may be experiencing homelessness, recovering from a natural disaster, or otherwise lack convenient access to a kitchen or the ability to heat up foods — in other words, people who are among those most in need. The SNAP PLUS Act will remedy the disparity in how hot and prepared foods are treated under SNAP. I am grateful for the support of my colleagues, Reps.

Meng and Fitzpatrick, in introducing this vital bipartisan legislation just in time for Christmas. Congress must ensure that families can afford to put food on the table and make the right dietary choices for themselves and their families — not just during the holiday season, but every day.”

“The COVID-19 pandemic presented unprecedented food security challenges for families across the country and Congress responded by allowing states to apply for purchasing flexibilities,” said Abby J. Leibman, President & CEO of MAZON: A Jewish Response to Hunger.

“The SNAP PLUS Act would modernize SNAP to better reflect the reality of working families on SNAP, who often rely on hot foods, like a rotisserie chicken, to provide a nutritious and convenient meal. We are proud to support this bill to ensure that SNAP benefits adequately support SNAP recipients today, while also addressing out-of-date and discriminatory restrictions on allowable purchases using SNAP benefits.”

Rep. Rush, a Member of the House Agriculture Committee, has long fought to strengthen and expand SNAP. More than 20 percent of households in Illinois’s 1st District rely on SNAP benefits to help make ends meet. In the early 1970s, Rush helped create and administer the Free Breakfast for Children Program in Chicago as a member of the Black Panther Party. By 1972, the program was feeding 25,000 children across the nation free breakfast every morning before they went to school. The Black Panther Party’s program was an impetus for the USDA to launch the federal School Breakfast Program in 1975, which today helps feed more than 14 million children.

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POLITICAL Affairs Illinois Senate Majority Leader Lightford announces Jan. 1 increase in minimum wage Illinois Senate Majority Leader Kimberly A. Lightford (D-Maywood), is excited to announce the new $12 per hour minimum wage in Illinois is starting Jan. 1, 2022.

“Even before the pandemic, many working families were struggling,” Lightford, chief sponsor of the 2019 law raising the minimum wage, said.

“This increase won’t solve all of their problems, but it will surely help.”

Public Act 101-1 was signed into law in 2019, putting the state on the path to a $15 per hour minimum wage by 2025. So far, there have been three increases to the minimum wage.

Minimum wage workers are being encouraged to keep a close eye on their paychecks in the new year to ensure all time worked in 2022 reflects the new $12 per hour minimum wage.

In Chicago, the minimum wage is already $15 per hour for employers that have 21 or more employees. It’s $14 per hour for smaller businesses.

The new law maintains provisions for employers to count gratuities to offset wages for workers, such as food servers, who regularly earn tips.

Tipped employees may be paid 60% of the hourly minimum wage.

However, these workers must still earn the minimum wage after receiving tips or the employer will make up the difference.

Workers under 18 years old who work fewer than 650 hours in a year will earn a minimum wage of $9.25 per hour beginning Jan. 1. The youth minimum wage rate will gradually rise to $13 per hour by 2025.

“Every year, the minimum wage goes up, and every year, employees need to check their paychecks after Jan. 1,” Lightford said. “Some employers may make honest mistakes, but don’t be afraid to report it if they don’t increase your pay.”

All employers in Illinois are required to post the “Your Rights Under Illinois Employment Laws” where notices to employees are regularly posted. The color poster, which also covers other Illinois labor laws, can be found here in English and Spanish: Illinois Labor Laws Employees with problems regarding the minimum wage can file a complaint with the Illinois Department of Labor at the following link: Minimum Wage Complaints or call 312-793-2800.

State Senator Patrick Joyce Reminds Illinois Drivers About Extended Driver's license and ID Card Expiration Dates State Senator Patrick Joyce (D-Essex) is reminding Illinois drivers they will now have an additional three months to renew their licenses.

“It’s important to take as many steps to slow the spread of COVID-19 as we can,” Joyce said. “There’s no rush to get to a facility, since expiration dates have been extended and services are still available online.”

Secretary of State Jesse White’s office announced Friday that expiration dates for driver’s licenses and ID cards has been extended an additional three months to March 31, 2022. However, the new expiration date does not apply to commercial driver’s licenses. The extension comes as secretary of state offices across Illinois continue to get caught up following COVID-19-related closures to their daily operations.

To cut down on long lines and wait times, Joyce encourages people to take advantage of the secretary of state’s online services at ilsos.gov. These services include: • Renewing a vehicle registration; • Applying for a vehicle title and registration; • Obtaining a duplicate driver’s license or ID card; • Obtaining a driving record abstract; • Renewing a standard driver’s license with the Safe Driver Renewal program.

Joyce is also reminding residents the U.S. Department of Homeland Security has extended the federal REAL ID deadline to May 3, 2023.

Current Illinois driver’s licenses or ID cards will continue to be accepted at airports, military bases and secure federal facilities.

For more information and to take advantage of online services, including license plate renewal, people can visit ilsos.gov.

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BUSINESS

Keisha Taylor Starr Appointed New Chief Marketing Officer for Scripps Networks (Black PR Wire) ATLANTA Keisha Taylor Starr has been hired as chief marketing officer for Scripps Networks, effective Jan. 3, 2022.

Taylor Starr will set the vision and lead marketing strategies across the portfolio of the nine Scripps national networks as well as direct the marketing, brand strategy, and creative for each network. She will be based in Atlanta and will report to Lisa Knutson, president of Scripps Networks.

“Keisha is a remarkably talented executive whose multi-faceted experience marketing top brands and programming across multiple platforms will be a tremendous asset for us as we connect consumers with the news, information, and entertainment they’re seeking,” said Knutson.

The Scripps Networks, a division of The E.W. Scripps Company (NASDAQ: SSP), reach nearly every American household through national news outlets Court TV and Newsy and popular entertainment brands ION, Bounce, Grit, Laff, Court TV Mystery, Defy TV, and TrueReal.

Taylor Starr has more than 20 years of media experience across news, sports, and entertainment.

Most recently, she served as senior vice president of marketing and public relations for the digital news outlet The Recount. She led the brand’s expansion into new content verticals and the go-to-market strategy for the company’s various products. Taylor Starr previously oversaw marketing for Learfield IMG College, including graphic design, research and analytics, client insights, and

BlackPRWire

innovation, and events as the senior VP of integrated marketing. She was an integral member of the executive leadership team and collaborated with colleagues and partner brands in supporting revenue generation and business development initiatives.

“As a graduate of Hampton University’s Scripps Howard School of Journalism and Communications, the opportunity to serve as a member of the senior leadership team for a division of the E.W. Scripps Company is a full-circle moment for me,” said Taylor Starr. “Given the dynamic range of the networks’ programming across news and entertainment, I look forward to developing marketing campaigns that deliver both cultural and business impact.”

Taylor Starr spent a decade with WarnerMedia (formerly Turner Broadcasting), leading award-winning teams across entertainment

(TNT/tbs) and news (CNN) networks. Before joining WarnerMedia, Taylor Starr began her career as an assistant account executive for BBDO ad agency in Atlanta.

She was selected as a 2017 “Game Changer: Women in Sports Business” by the Sports Business Journal, and her work has been highlighted in Advertising Age’s list of the “Top 15 Global Marketing Stunts.”

Taylor Starr holds a bachelor’s degree in mass communications/media studies from Hampton University.

She has served on several industry diversity councils and committees.

She is also a member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. The E.W. Scripps Company (NASDAQ: SSP) is a diversified media company focused on creating a better-informed world. As the nation’s fourth-largest local TV broadcaster, Scripps serves communities with quality, objective local journalism and operates a portfolio of 61 stations in 41 markets. The Scripps Networks reach nearly every American through the national news outlets Court TV and Newsy and popular entertainment brands ION, Bounce, Grit, Laff, Court TV Mystery, Defy TV, and TrueReal. Scripps is the nation’s largest holder of the broadcast spectrum. Scripps runs an award-winning investigative reporting newsroom in Washington, D.C., and is the longtime steward of the Scripps National Spelling Bee. Founded in 1878, Scripps has held for decades the motto, “Give light, and the people will find their own way.”

Subaru Of America Appoints Renee Rhem To Subaru Executive Team Rhem is First African American Woman Named to Hold a Position on Executive Team CAMDEN, N.J., PRNewswire -Subaru of America, Inc. announced that Renee Rhem, Vice President of Customer Advocacy at Subaru of America, Inc, has been named to the Subaru Executive Team.

Rhem is the first African American woman to hold a C-Suite position at Subaru.

As Vice President of Customer Advocacy and an Executive Team member, Rhem oversees the Subaru customer experience across all channels, ensuring the Subaru Love Promise is present at all interactions with Subaru customers. The Customer Advocacy department works to maintain customer and brand loyalty and foster positive partnerships with Subaru retailers to resolve customer issues. Rhem reports directly to Thomas J. Doll, President and CEO, Subaru of America, Inc. “Since joining our team in 2020, Renee has gone above and beyond to ensure the Subaru Love Promise Customer Commitment shines in all interactions with our valued owners,” said Thomas J. Doll, President and CEO, Subaru of America, Inc. “We’re proud to welcome Renee to the Subaru executive team and are confident she will deliver the strong results that keep Subaru best-in-class for our customer’s experience with our brand.”

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Rhem joined Subaru as Vice President of Customer Advocacy in 2020. Prior, she held positions in operations, sales support, and customer service, including roles at Prudential Financial, Independence Blue Cross and Bank of America.

Rhem holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology from Spelman College in Atlanta and is a member of the Board of Directors at Las Americas ASPIRA Academy (Delaware Charter), as well as Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., and the National Alumnae Association of Spelman College. Rhem lives in Delaware with her husband and two sons.

Brittney Payton Signs Exclusive Content Deal With BetRivers Rush Street Interactive Names Daughter of Chicago Bears Legend as Brand Ambassador CHICAGO PRNewswire -- Rush Street Interactive, Inc. (NYSE: RSI) (“RSI”), a Chicago based gaming and betting company, is proud to announce the signing of Brittney Payton, Chicago television personality and daughter of Chicago Bears Legend Walter Payton, to an exclusive brand and content deal with BetRivers.com and PlaySugarHouse.com.

A Chicago native, Payton moved to Arizona in 2020. She joins the RSI family as a Brand Ambassador for BetRivers in two key markets: Arizona and Illinois. Payton will be representing RSI in a variety of ways, including the creation of sports

betting content and a multitude of sports and culture content for RSI. As an Ambassador, Payton will be appearing in BetRivers TV and radio commercials, podcasts, and social media interviews. She will also be creating content for her own social media platforms.

Payton won a Chicago Emmy for her work as co-host of WGN-TV’s “Chicago’s Best.” She is also well known nationally for presenting the Walter Payton Man of the Year Award at the Super Bowl each year.

“We are excited to add Brittney to our RSI family,” said Mattias Stetz, COO of RSI, which operates BetRiv-

ers.com and PlaySugarHouse.com.

“Her enthusiasm for sports and pop culture, combined with her extensive experience working as a television personality will be a tremendous asset to our sports betting community.”

“I’m thrilled to be joining the BetRivers team,” said Payton. “It will be fun to bring a pop culture spin to sports entertainment and gaming.

It’s especially exciting to be interacting with RSI’s sports betting fans in my native state of Illinois and in Arizona which I now call home. “ RSI is a trusted online gaming and sports entertainment company focused on regulated markets in the www.citizennewspapergroup.com

United States and Latin America.

Through its brands, BetRivers.com and PlaySugarHouse.com, RSI was an early entrant in many regulated jurisdictions and is currently live with real-money mobile, online and/or retail operations in twelve U.S. states: Pennsylvania, Illinois, New Jersey, New York, Connecticut, Michigan, Indiana, Virginia, Colorado, Iowa, West Virginia and Arizona.

RSI is also active internationally, offering its online casino and sportsbook in the regulated gaming market of Colombia on RushBet.co. RSI offers, through its proprietary online gaming platform, some of the most

popular online casino games and sports betting options in the United States. Founded in 2012 in Chicago by gaming industry veterans, RSI was named the 2020 Global Gaming Awards Digital Operator of the Year and the 2021 EGR North America Awards Casino Operator of the Year, Customer Services Operator of the Year and Social Gaming Operator of the Year. RSI is committed to industry-leading responsible gaming practices and seeks to provide its customers with the resources and services they need to play responsibly. For more information, visit www. rushstreetinteractive.com.

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FASHION

A Pea In The Pod® Opens New Concept Stores In Chicago And New York City MOORESTOWN, N.J. PRNewswire -- A Pea in the Pod, the well-known designer and specialty retailer of luxe maternity apparel and accessories, is returning to its retail roots with the opening of two new concept stores located in Chicago and New York City, just in time for the holiday shopping season.

“Opening physical stores is allowing us to be an omnichannel retailer again,” said Marla Ryan.

“We are excited to announce we will be opening a handful of retail stores in our top populated customer locations across the United States, with the first two stores just newly opened in Chicago and New York City, featuring A Pea in the Pod, along with some of our most popular styles from styles from Motherhood Maternity,” said Marla Ryan, Executive Vice President, A Pea in the Pod and Motherhood Maternity. “Prior to the pandemic all our retail locations were closed, and since then, we’ve been focusing our efforts on offering moms and expecting moms-to-be a robust digital shopping experience that’s accessible and convenient. However, we understand we have a unique customer who appreciates the opportunity to shop and try-on clothing in person, as her body changes throughout pregnancy and post-partum.”

Customers can shop the stores featuring an assortment of the newest luxe maternity and nursing styles from leggings to bras, as well as designer favorites like AG, 7 for All Mankind and Articles of Society Denim Jeans, Splendid Knit Tops and Ripe Dresses and Nursing Tops. Store associates will be offering complimentary bra fittings, style advice and assistance. As always, a full assortment of styles and sizes from both brands are available

PRNewsfoto/Destination Maternity Corporation

24/7 online at A Pea in the Pod.com and Motherhood.com.

“We will continue to listen and learn from our customers as we explore additional store locations in collaboration with Leap’s retail platform, who has helped us bring our digital brand to life quickly in physical stores allowing us to be an omnichannel retailer again,” said Ryan. ‘It’s important to select the right locations where our customers want to shop with us as we continue building our motherhood community.”

“Having a physical retail presence is incredibly important these days and we’re thrilled to enable A Pea in the Pod’s return to omnichannel retail in their core markets of Chicago and New York City,” added Amish Tolia, Leap Co-Founder & Co-CEO. Chicago customers will be able to shop at the A Pea in the Pod store seven days a week located at 1723 N. Daman Avenue, Chicago, Illinois, Monday through Friday 11 – 7, and on Sunday from 12-6.

For more information, call 312-626-3263 or visit apeainthepod.com.

A Pea in the Pod is a leading fashion maternity online retailer.

Since 1982, A Pea in the Pod® and sister brand, Motherhood Maternity® has specialized in being the preeminent brands in maternity and nursing apparel and accessories, as a trusted resource for generations of women during the pivotal moment in their lives upon entering motherhood. Together, the two brands, honor and offer a 10% merchandise discount to teachers, health care providers and active-duty military personnel, veterans, and family members. To learn more, visit A Pea in the Pod or follow A Pea in the Pod on Facebook and Instagram.

Leap enables brands to deploy modern, immersive retail stores that drive growth and acquire customers. By leveraging millions of data points and a platform strategy, Leap makes physical retail more productive and less risky for brands. Discover and learn more about Leap’s platform and brand stores powered by Leap at http://leapinc.com.

Dove and Matthew A. Cherry Team Up to Inspire Hair Love in Kids The partnership will include a NEW range of hair care products for curls, coils, and waves ENGLEWOOD CLIFFS, N.J., PRNewswire -- Dove and Academy Award-winning filmmaker and CROWN Act advocate Matthew A. Cherry announce an official partnership to ensure the next generation of Black kids develop a positive relationship with beauty. The partnership will kick off with a new collection of hair care products designed for kids with curls, coils, and waves, inspired by Matthew’s Academy Award-winning animated short film, Hair Love.

The Dove Kids Care Hair Love collection offers a complete hair care routine for kids with four nourishing products: Shampoo, Conditioner, Detangler, and Curl Cream. Hair Love’s main character, Zuri, is featured on each bottle wearing fun and playful styles to highlight the diversity and beauty of natural hair. Product packaging also features an empowering positive affirmation – “I am caring, brilliant, and creative” – to boost self-esteem and set kids on the right path for a positive relationship with their hair.

“Research shows that kids as young as three years old can start to build confidence when they see themselves positively represented in the world around them1,” explains Esi Eggleston Bracey, Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer of Unilever Personal Care, North America. “Dove and Matthew have been working in parallel to create a world where natural hair is a source of confidence in young people, and we are thrilled to officially come together to nurture a positive self-image

The Dove Kids Care Hair Love collection includes Shampoo, Conditioner, Detangler, and Curl Cream. Dove

in kids and, at the same time, deliver products that offer the expert nourishment and care of Dove to Black families.”

Each Dove Kids Care Hair Love product features a gentle formula and fun scent. All are dermatologist-tested and infused with shea butter and coconut oil to deliver soft, moisturized, and healthy-feeling hair. The full collection is available now on Walmart.com and will be available in Walmart stores nationwide beginning January 2022.

“Dove and I have a long history together with Hair Love, beginning in 2017, when the brand provided early funding for the project. I’m also a dedicated CROWN Act supporter and have been impressed with the ongoing work Dove is doing to

advance hair discrimination legislation, particularly by co-founding the CROWN Coalition,” explains filmmaker Matthew A. Cherry. “Through this partnership, we will take Zuri ‘offscreen’ and into the real world to inspire hair love and build self-confidence in kids everywhere.”

The new Dove Kids Care Hair Love collection builds upon Dove and Matthew’s ongoing CROWN commitments to Create a Respectful and Open World for Natural Hair: In 2018, Dove co-founded the CROWN Coalition to make race-based hair discrimination illegal in all 50 states. To-date, the CROWN Act – or similar anti-hair discrimination legislation – has been passed in 14 states, with 36 more to go. Each Dove Kids Care Hair Love bottle features a QR code to learn more about the CROWN Act and sign the official petition to #PassTheCROWN. In addition, the Dove Self-Esteem Project – the largest provider of self-esteem education in the world – expanded its resources earlier this year to address appearance and race-based pressures and discrimination. My Hair, My CROWN is a 90-minute, academically validated, no-cost curriculum for educators, parents and youth group leaders designed to boost hair confidence in kids with textured hair.

Together, we can ensure the next generation develops a positive relationship with beauty.

Visit Dove.com/CROWN to learn more and sign the petition. #HairLove #PassTheCROWN #Dove-

www.citizennewspapergroup.com

SelfEsteemProject Dove started its life in 1957 in the US, with the launch of the Beauty Bar, with its patented blend of mild cleansers and ¼ moisturizing cream. Dove’s heritage is based on moisturization, and it is proof not promises that enabled Dove to grow from a Beauty Bar into one of the world’s most beloved beauty brands.

Women have always been our inspiration and since the beginning, we have been wholly committed to providing superior care to all women and to championing real beauty in our advertising. Dove believes that beauty is for everyone. That beauty should be a source of confidence and not anxiety. Dove’s mission is to inspire women everywhere to develop a positive relationship with the way they look and realize their personal potential for beauty.

For 60 years, Dove has been committed to broadening the narrow definition of beauty in the work they do. With the ‘Dove Real Beauty Pledge,’ Dove vows to: Portray women with honesty, diversity, and respect. We feature women of different ages, sizes, ethnicities, hair color, type, and style.

Portray women as they are in real life, with zero digital distortion and all images approved by the women they feature.

Help young people build body confidence and self-esteem through the Dove Self-Esteem Project, the biggest provider of self-esteem education in the world.

6 | CITIZEN | South End | Week of Dec. 29, 2021

6 | CITIZEN | South End | Week of Dec. 29, 2021

NEWS

NEWS

YEAR YEAR ININ REVIEW REVIEW 2021 2021

sleeping train cars. The site, operatINSURRECTION ed by National Park Service, is just On Jan. 6, rioters stormedINSURRECTION Capitol On Jan. 6, rioters stormed Capitol Hill after a rally in one part of the Pullman History, Hill after a rally in Washington, Washington, D.C. Some of those people were upset about which also includes thebelieved A. Philip D.C. Some of those people were the results of the Presidential election and Demupset about the results of the Presocrats stole theRandolph election. Pullman Porter Museum and Historic Pullman Foundation idential election and believed the INAUGURATION Exhibition Hall.

Democrats stole the election.

On Jan. 20, Joe Biden was sworn-in as president and

Kamala Harris TIMUEL was sworn-in as vice president. Harris BLACK INAUGURATION made history as the first woman, Black person and Asian Timuel Black, beloved historian On Jan. 20, Joe Biden wasserve swornas vice president. and civil rights leader, passed away in as President and Kamala Harris COVID-19 VARIANTS at 102 years old on Oct. 13, 2021. was sworn-in as Vice President.

Delta and Omicron the latest variants of COVID-19 He wasarea member of the DuSable Harris made history as the first that aretoraisingHigh concerns.

People are being encouraged to School Alumni Coalition. woman, Black person and Asian get COVID-19 vaccines and also get the booster shot, a He was the driving force behind serve as Vice President. third dose of either Moderna or Pfizer. the landmark designation of the COVID-19 VARIANTS COVID-19 VACCINES school. Along the way, he helped to establish the Teachers Committee Delta and Omicron are the While latestsome of the first COVID-19 vaccines were rolled out in December, started to receive the in forpeople Quality Education, thevaccines Congress variants of COVID-19 that are Even children as young as 5 canand get the Now, of Racial Equality thevaccine.

United raising concerns. People are2021. being people are beingPackinghouse encouraged to receive theirof booster shot.

Workers America. encouraged to get the COVID-19 In 1960, he worked with Dr. vaccines and also get the booster VERDICTS Martin Luther King, Jr., when shot, a third dose of either Moderna Derrick Chauvin, former Minneapolis Police whothe murcivil rights leader to the city or Pfizer are available. dered George Floyd, was found guiltycame of Floyd’s murder to 22 protest for poor and sentenced to ½ yearshousing in prison.issues As of press time, COVID-19 VACCINES Chauvin plead residents guilty to violating Floyd’s civil living George on Chicago’s West court.Black also helped organize a While some of the first rights in federalSide.

Travis McMichael, Greg McMichael and William ‘Rodcontingent of 2,000 Chicagoans that COVID-19 vaccines were rolled out die’ Bryan were found guilty of the murder of Ahmaud would attend the historic March on in December 2020, people started to Arbery. They are set to be sentenced on Jan. 7, 2021.

Washington. receive the vaccines in arm in 2021.

For many years, Black was a Children as young as 5 can PULLMAN now Pullman National Monument, located at 610 at E. 111th professor of social sciences the get the vaccine. People are being St., opened to the public.

The site, National City Colleges of operated Chicagobyand was encouraged to take the booster to Park Service, isVice just one part of Pullman Historic,Affairs which President of Academic lessen symptom and avoid long also includes the A. Philip Randolph Pullman Porter Muat Olive Harvey College in 1972. He hospital stay or even death. seum and Historic Pullman Foundation Exhibition Hall. taught courses at his alma mater VERDICTS Roosevelt University and lectured TIMUEL BLACK atbeloved DePaulhistorian University andrights Columbia Derrick Chauvin, former MinneTimuel Black, and civil leader, passed 102 years old. The Alabama native who apolis Policeman who kneeled on away at College. lived in Hyde ParkIn was instrumental in work the election of addition to his in activthe neck of George Floyd which lead Chicago’s first Black mayor Harold Washington and he ism, he had a long history in polito his death. Floyd was the 46-yearwas part of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.’s Freedom Movetics. He’s ran for public office several old Black man accused of passing ment. times, including Chicago’s 4th Ward off counterfeit money to a grocery OBAMA PRESIDENTIAL Alderman,CENTER State Senator of the 22nd clerk. Chauvin was found guilty President Barack Obama and former First Lady Mi- of district, and State Representative of the murder and sentenced to 22 chelle Obama attended a groundbreaking of the Obama the 22nd district. ½ years in prison. As of press time, Presidential Center, located Jackson Park.

Black wasinalso instrumental Chauvin plead guilty to violating in the election of the late Mayor George Floyd’s civil rights in federal FIRSTS the first Africourt.

In the SouthHarold Suburbs,Washington, there were a number of firsts. can American Mayor of Chicago.

Travis McMichael, Greg McMiTiffany Henyard, of Dolton, and Jada Curry, of Lynwood, Additionally, heelected served as a mentor chael and William ‘Roddie’ were Bryan the first Black women to be Mayor.

Thaddeus Jones was first Black MayorBarack of Calumet City. to the former President Obama. were found guilty in the murder of elected In 1991 Obama he sought out the Ahmaud Arbery in Glynn County JETT’S LAW advice of Black when he wanted to Georgia. Arbery, a 25-year Black Entrepreneur and mother Ida Nelson worked with State get involved in activism. man who was allegedly accused of Senator Mike Simmons on the Jett Hawkins Law after burglary and theft after entering a son Gus “Jett” Hawkins was discriminated against Nelson’s OBAMA PRESIDENTIAL CENTER newly constructed home while out for wearing at school his hair in a braided hairstyle.

The law prohibits discriminating President Barackhairstyles Obamahistorically and jogging. The three are set to be schools from race, ethnicity, or hairMichelle texture, including, First Lady Obama sentenced on Jan. 7, 2021. associated withformer protective hairstyles -braids, locs and twists. of the attended a groundbreaking PULLMAN Obama Presidential Center, located in Jackson Park. The Obama PresThe Pullman National Monuidential Center will be located on ment, located at 610 E. 111th St., 19.3 acres of the 550-acre Jackson opened to the public on Labor Day weekend after years of planning. The Park. It is expected to be completed in 2025 and will include a presiNational Park Service site is unique dential museum, a branch of the in that it is an urban park that tells Chicago Public Library, an athletic the story of the planned community center, and a forum building with founded by George M. Pullman, community space. Once completed, who designed and manufactured

Obama – Photo by Tia Carol Jones

Tiffany Henyard – Photo provided by Sean Howard.

Jada Curry – Photo provided by Deborah Farmer

Timuel Black – Photo provided by University of Chicago

Thaddeus Jones – Photo by Tia Carol Jones

Jetts Law – Photo provided by Ida Nelson.

Pullman – Photo provided by Brian Berg

www.citizennewspapergroup.com

the Center is expected to generate $3.1 billion in economic activity, as well as create thousands of jobs.

FIRSTS Illinois Southland Region was the scene of victories for several first time Black Village Mayors. Tiffany Henyard, of Dolton, and Jada Curry, www.citizennewspapergroup.com

of Lynwood, were the first Black women to be elected Mayor. Thaddeus Jones was elected the first Black Mayor of Calumet City.

JETT’S LAW Entrepreneur and mother Ida Nelson worked with State Senator Mike Simmons on the Jett Hawkins

Law after Nelson’s son Gus “Jett” Hawkins was discriminated against at school for wearing his hair in a braided hairstyle. The new law prohibits schools from discriminating against hairstyles historically associated with race, ethnicity, or hair texture, including, protective hairstyles -- braids, locs and twists.

CITIZEN | South End | Week of Dec. 29, 2021

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8 | CITIZEN | South End | Week of Dec. 29, 2021

CITIZEN On The Move

Christmas In The Wards Wraps Up Its Gift Giving Season At Proviso In Maywood Photos by L.M. Warbington

CITIZEN | South End | Week of Dec. 29, 2021

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ENTERTAINMENT

Author Dr. Cindy Trimm Releases New Book

The must-read book in the new normal. Unstoppable is the answer to going further than you ever thought possible and accomplishing more than you thought attainable within your lifetime!

ATLANTA PRNewswire -- Internationally acclaimed, bestselling author Dr. Cindy Trimm is set to release a new book, “Unstoppable: Compete With Your Best Self and Win!” Fresh off of her “End Your Year Strong” conference, Dr. Trimm shares tips on shifting your mindset from one of competition with those around you to focusing on the competition with yourself as the key to success.

“Unstoppable,” already predicted to be a bestseller, introduces her self-mastery series. The must-read book ahead of the new year, Unstoppable is for anyone who wants to know how to get unstuck in their lives and figure out what winning looks like for their personal journey. Dr. Trimm does this expertly as she outlines the four principles on which all her life and leadership programs are built: The Core4 System. Dr. Trimm takes readers through mastering their mindsets, behaviors, personal brands, and leadership skills to become the best version of themselves in an evolving and complex world.

She also teaches the principles of how to master the art of living and leading from your genius zone.

“I understand what it’s like to be a woman facing many obstacles without clear answers on what to do. In my brandnew book, Unstoppable, I share what took me a lifetime to learn—the keys and secrets to becoming unstoppable,” said Dr. Cindy Trimm.

With the foreword penned by award-winning speaker and bestselling author, Les Brown, “Unstoppable” comes at a time when much of the country is dealing with pandemic-related burnout and fatigue. The World Health Organization officially recognized burnout as an occupational health issue in 2019 but has run rampant over the last 21 months. According to Forbes, the ongoing burnout and fatigue have made way for trends such as The Great Resignation, which describes the wave of employees re-evaluating their work-life balance and boundaries, quitting their jobs, and making career shifts.

REVOLT and Target Co-create ‘Bet on Black’ Series to Invest in Entrepreneurs Building Companies that Advance the Black Community New series looks to advance Black founders who have disruptive ideas to make the world a better place

PRNewsFoto

Despite these trends, Dr. Trimm goes on to encourage people to start where they are and make small, consistent changes that lead to their success, no matter how those look. She explains that “feeling stuck” can be a good thing, as it shows the need for change and reveals what is not working in your life. She goes on to say that this is the first step in becoming “unstoppable” and determining your personal path to success. Dr. Trimm breaks down that once you shift your mindset to reflect that life is not happening to you, but for you instead, you can discover your own potential for greatness.

“Unstoppable” is the optimum book for resetting and making progressive steps to your success. “Unstoppable” provides a step-by-step plan on how to evolve into the next level of power by leveraging your expertise, your brand, and your work experience. It is the perfect guide for anyone who wants to re-evaluate what they want from life, and win the competition against them-

selves so they can ultimately win at life. “Unstoppable” will help readers chart their own personal plan to success, no matter how they define and measure it.

Dr. Trimm is so convinced that “Unstoppable” will be the gamechanger in helping people supercharge their lives, their businesses, and their brands, that she is offering the book free! For more information, visit www.unstoppablebook. online.

A best-selling author, Cindy Trimm is an international thought leader, sought-after empowerment specialist, revolutionary thinker, and one of the most prolific voices of our time. Her best-selling books, empowerment resources, and coaching programs have sold in the millions. She declares, “I see the world filled with dreamers, innovators, and industry leaders who contribute to making this world a better place — who push humanity forward and who influence others to do the same!”

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

LOS ANGELES PRNewswire -- Leading Black-owned multimedia platform REVOLT today announced the premiere of Bet on Black, a new multiscreen series where Black entrepreneurs pitch their businesses in the hopes of securing critical funding. Co-created in partnership with leading retailer Target – one of REVOLT’s top advertisers – this exciting series will feature an array of expert judges and celebrity guests, including T-Pain, Zerina Akers and DJ Envy, who will select the top influential business ideas to receive funding.

Host Keenan Beasley, CEO of Sunday II Sunday, will also serve on the panel of judges alongside Target’s Melanie Gatewood-Hall, Senior Divisional of Merchandising in Apparel & Accessories and former Director of Multicultural Merchandise with Pernell Cezar, CEO of BLK & Bold Specialty Beverages as the coach to the entrepreneurs.

In each episode, maverick investors and industry pioneers will listen to concepts from today’s brightest Black entrepreneurs and identify the projects they believe will move the needle for Black culture and the community to receive funds.

The series aims to invest in businesses that build communities, support social justice, and create lasting change, with one entrepreneur ultimately walking away with $200,000 in funding and mentorship from Target. Each episode will feature the business ideas of three innovative entrepreneurs working to revolutionize a range of industries – from technology and entertainment to style, beauty, and beyond.

“We appreciate Target for being a fearless partner that understands and supports our vision to launch programs like Bet on Black, which expand beyond entertainment to inform and inspire our community in every category,” said Detavio Samuels, CEO of REVOLT. “Empowering Black entrepreneurs starts with providing access to the capital, guidance and resources they need to build companies that revolutionize industries and make a scalable impact on the world.”

www.citizennewspapergroup.com

With this new series, REVOLT further carries out its commitment in supporting Black changemakers on a large scale. In total, Target will provide participants with $500,000 in secured funding – without asking founders to give up equity – along with one-on-one meetings with a Target executive for the four finalists.

“Target has a long history of partnering with diverse media organizations to reach our guests, and we’ve committed to increasing our investments with Black-owned media companies and better supporting Black entrepreneurs,” said Maurice Cooper, Senior Vice President of Brand and Category PRNewsfoto/REVOLT Marketing for Target.

“We’re proud of our groundbreaking partnership with REVOLT, which is unlocking inventive and impactful ways to connect with and bring joy to our guests. Our investment not only enables the creation of a must-see series, it will also fundamentally change the trajectory of deserving Black enterprises.”

Target’s multimillion-dollar investment in the series is one of many in support of its Racial Equity Action and Change (REACH) strategy to create an environment where Black guests feel more welcome and represented at Target. The retailer committed to spending at least five percent of its annual media budget with Black-owned media companies each year, beginning in 2022.

The company has pledged to spend $2 billion with Black-owned businesses and increase the number of products from Black-owned businesses to more than 500 in stores and online by the end of 2025. Target also launched Forward Founders, a startup accelerator program designed to engage Black entrepreneurs earlier in their startup journeys to help them navigate the critical stages of ideation, product development and scaling for mass retail.

Bet on Black will premiere on REVOLT’s digital platforms on January 10 at 9 p.m. EST and extend to all platforms starting January 11 at 9 p.m. EST.

10Chatham/ | CITIZENSE | South 1 End | Week of Dec. 29, 2021

REAL ESTATE AC 12-15-2021 IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF COOK COUNTY, ILLINOIS COUNTY DEPARTMENT - CHANCERY DIVISION PNC BANK NATIONAL ASSOCIATION; Plaintiff, vs. IRMA T. PARKS AKA IRMA PARKS; UNKNOWN OWNERS AND NONRECORD CLAIMANTS; Defendants, 19 CH 7583 NOTICE OF SALE PUBLIC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered in the above entitled cause Intercounty Judicial Sales Corporation will on Tuesday, January 18, 2022 at the hour of 11 a.m. in their office at 120 West Madison Street, Suite 718A, Chicago, Illinois, sell at public auction to the highest bidder for cash, as set forth below, the following described mortgaged real estate: P.I.N. 25-03-324-031-0000.

Commonly known as 200 East 95th Street, Chicago, Illinois 60619. The mortgaged real estate is improved with a single family residence. If the subject mortgaged real estate is a unit of a common interest community, the purchaser of the unit other than a mortgagee shall pay the assessments required by subsection (g-1) of Section 18.5 of the Condominium Property Act. Sale terms: 10% down by certified funds, balance, by certified funds, within 24 hours. No refunds. The property will NOT be open for inspection.

For information call The Sales Department at Plaintiff's Attorney, Anselmo Lindberg & Associates, LLC, 1771 West Diehl Road, Naperville, Illinois 60563-1890.

(630) 453-6960.

F19060069 INTERCOUNTY JUDICIAL SALES CORPORATION intercountyjudicialsales.com I3182851 ____________________________ IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF COOK COUNTY, ILLINOIS COUNTY DEPARTMENT - CHANCERY DIVISION Freedom Mortgage Corporation Plaintiff, vs. David C. Warren, AKA David Warren; Ford Motor Credit Company EEC; The City of Chicago, a Municipal Corporation; State of Illinois; Unknown Owners and Non-Record Claimants Defendants, 19 ch 6100 NOTICE OF SALE PUBLIC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered in the above entitled cause Intercounty Judicial Sales Corporation will on Thursday, January 20, 2022 at the hour of 11 a.m. in their office at 120 West Madison Street, Suite 718A, Chicago, Illinois, sell at public auction to the highest bidder for cash, as set forth below, the following described mortgaged real estate: P.I.N. 20-25-318-019-0000.

Commonly known as 7755 SOUTH EAST END AVENUE, CHICAGO, IL 60649. The mortgaged real estate is improved with a single family residence. If the subject mortgaged real estate is a unit of a common interest community, the purchaser of the unit other than a mortgagee shall pay the assessments required by subsection (g-1) of Section 18.5 of the Condominium Property Act. Sale terms: 10% down by certified funds, balance, by certified funds, within 24 hours. No refunds. The property will NOT be open for inspection. For information call Sales Department at Plaintiff's Attorney, Manley Deas Kochalski, LLC, One East Wacker Drive, Chicago, Illinois 60601. (614) 2205611. 19-017115 F2 INTERCOUNTY JUDICIAL SALES CORPORATION intercountyjudicialsales.com I3182988 ____________________________ AC12-22-2021 IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF COOK COUNTY, ILLINOIS COUNTY DEPARTMENT - CHANCERY DIVISION MILL CITY MORTGAGE LOAN TRUST 2019-GS1 Plaintiff, v.- GERALD NORDGREN, AS SPECIAL REPRESENTATIVE OF THE ESTATE OF THOMAS L. WALKER, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA, CITY OF CHICAGO, PALISADES COLLECTION LLC, DELL FINANCIAL SERVICES LLC, KEVIN WALKER, UNKNOWN HEIRS AT LAW AND LEGATEES OF THOMAS L. WALKER, UNKNOWN OWNERS AND NONRECORD CLAIMANTS Defendants 2020 CH 04147 7707 S. East End Avenue CHICAGO, IL 60649 NOTICE OF SALE PUBLIC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered in the above cause on August 12, 2021, an agent for The Judicial Sales Corporation, will at 10:30 AM on January 18, 2022, at The Judicial Sales Corporation, One South Wacker, 1st Floor Suite 030R, Chicago, IL, 60606, sell at a public sale to the highest bidder, as set forth below, the following described real estate: Commonly known as 7707 S. East End Avenue, CHICAGO, IL 60649 Property Index No. 20-25-318-003-0000 The real estate is improved with a multi-family residence. The judgment amount was $355,384.30. Sale terms: 25%

down of the highest bid by certified funds at the close of the sale payable to The Judicial Sales Corporation. No third party checks will be accepted. The balance, including the Judicial Sale fee for the Abandoned Residential Property Municipality Relief Fund, which is calculated on residential real estate at the rate of $1 for each $1,000 or fraction thereof of the amount paid by the purchaser not to exceed $300, in certified funds/or wire transfer, is due within twentyfour (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. Where a sale of real estate is made to satisfy a lien prior to that of the United States, the United States shall have one year from the date of sale within which to redeem, except that with respect to a lien arising under the internal revenue laws the period shall be 120 days or the period allowable for redemption under State law, whichever is longer, and in any case in which, under the provisions of section 505 of the Housing Act of 1950, as amended (12 U.S.C. 1701k), and subsection (d) of section 3720 of title 38 of the United States Code, the right to redeem does not arise, there shall be no right of redemption. 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, JOHNSON, BLUMBERG & ASSOCIATES, LLC Plaintiff's Attorneys, 230 W. Monroe Street, Suite #1125, Chicago, IL, 60606 (312) 541-9710.

Please refer to file number 20-8031.

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. JOHNSON, BLUMBERG & ASSOCIATES, LLC 230 W. Monroe Street, Suite #1125 Chicago IL, 60606 312-541-9710 EMail: ilpleadings@johnsonblumberg.com Attorney File No. 20-8031 Attorney Code. 40342 Case Number: 2020 CH 04147 TJSC#: 41-2872 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 # 2020 CH 04147 I3183558 ____________________________

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered in the above cause on October 15, 2015, an agent for The Judicial Sales Corporation, will at 10:30 AM on January 24, 2022, at The Judicial Sales Corporation, One South Wacker, 1st Floor Suite 030R, Chicago, IL, 60606, sell at a public sale to the highest bidder, as set forth below, the following described real estate: Commonly known as 5917 SOUTH INDIANA AVENUE, CHICAGO, IL 60637 Property Index No. 20-15-303-008-0000 The real estate is improved with a gray stone townhouse without a garage. Sale terms: 25% down of the highest bid by certified funds at the close of the sale payable to The Judicial Sales Corporation. No third party checks will be accepted. The balance, including the Judicial Sale fee for the Abandoned Residential Property Municipality Relief Fund, which is calculated on residential real estate at the rate of $1 for each $1,000 or fraction thereof of the amount paid by the purchaser not to exceed $300, in certified funds/or wire transfer, is due within twentyfour (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. MCCALLA RAYMER LEIBERT PIERCE, LLC Plaintiff's Attorneys, One North Dearborn Street, Suite 1200, Chicago, IL, 60602. Tel No. (312) 346-9088.

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. MCCALLA RAYMER LEIBERT PIERCE, LLC One North Dearborn Street, Suite 1200 Chicago IL, 60602 312-3469088 E-Mail: pleadings@mccalla.com Attorney File No. 10975 Attorney ARDC No. 61256 Attorney Code. 61256 Case Number: 12 CH 05355 TJSC#: 412901 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 # 12 CH 05355 I3184270 ____________________________

AC 12-29-2021 IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF COOK COUNTY, ILLINOISCOUNTY DEPARTMENT - CHANCERY DIVISION METLIFE HOME LOANS, A DIVISION OF METLIFE BANK, NA Plaintiff, -v.- MELISSA SMITH AKA MELISSA LASHA SMITH, RAYMOND C SMITH, CITY OF CHICAGO, UNKNOWN HEIRS AND LEGATEES OF ARMETTA JOHNSON, IF ANY, MARY FRANCES SMITH, WILLIAM BUTCHER, SPECIAL REPRESENTATIVE, EQUITY ONE, INC., UNKNOWN OWNERS AND NONRECORD CLAIMANTS Defendants 12 CH 05355 5917 SOUTH INDIANA AVENUE CHICAGO, IL 60637 NOTICE OF SALE PUBLIC

ARE YOU INTERESTED IN ADVERTISING CALL US AT (773) 783-1251

STATEPOINT CROSSWORD THEME: FOOD & DRINK ACROSS 1. *Lettuce variety 5. Drivel 8. *Café alternative 11. *Cantina cooker 12. *Waldorf salad ingredient 13. Animal trail 15. Radio knob 16. Hurry up, acr.

17. One who accepts the offer 18. *Anise-flavored spirit 20. “Happily ____ after” 21. Operatic solos 22. ____ Air in L.A. 23. Hairy vertebrate 26. Freed 30. In the past 31. Small type of drum 34. *Wine in Italy 35. Charleston, e.g.

37. Chow down 38. a.k.a. honey badger 39. Wet nurse 40. Hervé Villechaize on “Fantasy Island” 42. Expression of doubt 43. Founding Father 45. City in Japan 47. Shock and ____ 48. Jawaharlal’s last name 50. *Driest type of sherry 52. *a.k.a. black treacle 55. Softly-softly, loris’ cousin 56. A Flock of Seagulls’ 1982 hit (2 words)

57. *Cabbage amount 59. Alexandre Dumas’ “The Black ____” 60. What seekers do 61. Consequently 62. Everything 63. Temporary craze 64. Swedish shag rugs DOWN 1. Physique, informally 2. Pelvic bones 3. Spill the beans 4. Certain fir 5. *Fusilli or ziti 6. Same as #39 Across, pl.

7. Supreme pontiff 8. Puff 9. Field worker 10. Be off base 12. Capital of Philippines 13. Be at the helm 14. *Ballerina-inspired dessert 19. All worked up 22. *Granola serving 23. Téa Leoni’s “____ Secretary” 24. Old World lizard 25. Unicellular organism 26. Stroke on a green 27. Lithograph, for short 28. Japan to U.S. in WWII 29. *Stuffed grapevine leaf 32. *Flageolet or azuki 33. *Popular breakfast cereal 36. *Type of #34 Across 38. Lion sounds 40. One little piggy?

41. Easily available (2

words) 44. One clean one?

46. *Betty Crocker fruit snack 48. Waterwheel 49. Serengeti grazer 50. Unplayable baseball 51. It will, contraction 52. Irk 53. Like a ghost 54. Long novel 55. School support org.

58. Opposite of don’ts

CITIZEN | South End | Week of Dec. 29, 2021

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11

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OUTDOOR LIVING Learning to Love Cold-Weather Camping and Trekking

LEGAL NOTICE/ PUBLIC NOTICE STATE OF IL LINOIS CIRCUIT COURT OF COOK COUNTY REQUEST FOR NAME CHANGE (ADULT) Request of: MALESIA FAYE JACKSON Case Number# 2021CONC001048 Judge Calendar 8 I ask the court to enter an order to change my name, and I state: 1. My current name is: MELESIA FAYE JACKSON 2. I wish my name to be change to: MELESIA FAYE ROBINSON 3. My birth date is: 06/13/1968.

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4. My place of birth is: Chicago, Illinois, Cook Cunty.

There will be a court date on my Request to change my name from: MALESIA FAYE JACKSON to the new name of: MELESIA FAYE ROBINSON. The court date will be held: 12/3/21 at 1:30 p.m. at 50 W. Washington, Chicago, Illinois in the County of Cook in Courtroom# 1703.

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PHOTO SOURCE: (c) Mumemories / iStock via Getty Images Plus (StatePoint) Do you identify as an outdoor enthusiast -- but only during three seasons of the year? Here are some tips and recommendations for learning to love cold-weather camping, trekking and more: • Take up a new sport: Whether it’s ice climbing, snowshoeing or cross-country skiing, there are certain sports that can only be enjoyed in cold conditions. Challenge yourself to take up a new athletic endeavor this winter.

The thrill of trying something for the first time may prove sufficiently distracting from the chill, plus you may discover a new passion in the process.

• Let durable tech support you: Your weara ble tech should be as tough and intrepid as you are. So if your current outdoor watch doesn’t support high-level performance or stand up to the toughest of conditions, it’s time for an update. Consider Casio’s line of Pro Trek and G-SHOCK watches, which have built-in technology to ensure your fun doesn’t turn to frustration. For example, those in GSHOCK’s Mudmaster series feature a digital compass, barometer, altimeter, thermometer and step tracker to help you reach your goals, even when challenges seem insurmountable.

The Base model is the MUDMASTER GGB100, which uses carbon material that delivers a new level of shock-, water-, dustand mud-resistance. The watches in the Pro Trek series are also equipped with quad sensor technology, and in some cases, Smartphone connectivity. Using Bluetooth and Casio’s Smartphone Link functionality, wearers can connect to a designated app for access to additional useful data for your outdoor adventures, such as route log, calories burned, location indicator, altitude, longitude, latitude and more.

• Embrace a mind over matter attitude: Hate the cold? Consider the approach of extreme, cold-weather athlete Wim Hof, whose famous outdoor feats of endurance in subzero temperatures (and in little clothing) have earned him the apt nickname, “The Iceman.” You don’t need to forgo shoes and a shirt like he does to take a page from his cold weather playbook, which involves controlled breathing. Dip a toe into the icy waters of his technique by checking out the Wim Hof Method Mobile app.

• Get prepped for nighttime: While you may prefer to spend the night in a cabin or other shelter in winter, and that’s totally respectable, if you do plan a more rustic adventure, be sure that your tent and sleeping bag are specifically engineered for winter use. A sleeping pad placed beneath your sleeping bag can provide a valuable layer between you and the cold ground. Most importantly stay healthy and safe. Change your plans if there are unsafe conditions in the forecast and know the signs of hypothermia and frostbite. If you are a novice, you may also consider bringing along a friend who is well-versed in cold weather outdoor adventures until you get the hang of it.

If you go all out during summer, spring and fall, but shy away from outdoor adventures in winter, let new gear and a new mindset help you embrace the cold.

Darrell Garth President /Publisher Janice Garth Sales Manager General Manager Tia Carol Jones Managing Editior Editorial Send news tips, press releases, calendar listing etc to: editorial@citizennewspapergroup.com Advertising Display Advertising advertising@citizennewspapergroup.com or jgarth@citizennewspapergroup.com Classified Advertising call us at (773) 783-1251 Display Advertising call us at (773) 783-1251 Coverage Areas: CHATHAM-SOUTHEAST

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