SouthEnd Citizen 12-20-2023

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SOUTH SUBURBAN

WEEK OF DECEMBER 20, 2023

WEEKLY

UrbanGeekz Unveils Inaugural UrbanGeekz 50 to Showcase Gamechangers in Tech, Innovation and Entrepreneurship

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P4 FREE | VOL 43 | ISSUE 05

THEATER47 Azazie and Former Bachelorette, Charity Lawson, Host a Bridal Tea Luncheon P8

The Otis Redding Foundation Remembers Legendary Singer 56 Years After His Passing P9

BRINGS BROADWAYSTYLE SHOWS TO SOUTH SUBURBS John Ruffin has been writing plays for 36 years. Ruffin got his start writing and producing inspirational plays.

Throughout the years, he moved into more edutainment where he wanted the audience to be entertained but also to learn something. The shows he produces now are more Broadwaystyle shows. P2

John Ruffin and his wife, Tammie, opened Theater47, located at 371 Artists Walk in Park Forest five years ago. PHOTO PROVIDED BY THEATER47.

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“The Phyllis Hyman Story” is one of the plays produced by Theater47, which is run by John Ruffin and his wife Tammie. PHOTO PROVIDED BY THEATER47.

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NEWS

briefly CHICAGO BULLS LAUNCH RING OF HONOR AND ANNOUNCE INAUGURAL CLASS 13 Individuals and the 1995-96 team to be celebrated on January 11 and 12 CHICAGO – The Chicago Bulls named the inaugural class for the organization’s new Ring of Honor, which will recognize and celebrate past players, coaches and front office staff who made outstanding contributions and helped define the organization throughout its history. The Bulls will celebrate the first class, which includes 13 individuals and the 1995-96 team, with several events in January including a halftime presentation during the Bulls game against the Golden State Warriors on January 12 and a private gala at the United Center on January 11, both proudly presented by Magellan Corporation. Fans will be able to engage with the Ring of Honor through a United Center atrium experience that will be open to the public from January 10 through January 12, as well as a website that will launch in early January.

The Bulls will add to the Ring of Honor every two years with the next class being inducted in 2026.

Ring of Honor Class of 2024 The inaugural class includes 13 individual Bulls legends and one team: Artis Gilmore, Phil Jackson, Michael Jordan, Johnny “Red” Kerr, Dick Klein, Jerry Krause, Toni Kukoc, Bob Love, Scottie Pippen, Dennis Rodman, Jerry Sloan, Chet Walker, Tex Winter, and the 1995-96 team, which went 72-10 and won the 1996 NBA Championship.

The Bulls will honor the following players, coaches and staff from the 1995-96 team: Players: Randy Brown, Jud Buechler Jason Caffey, James Edwards, Jack Haley, Ron Harper, Michael Jordan, Steve Kerr, Toni Kukoc, Luc Longley, Scottie Pippen, Dennis Rodman, John Salley, Dickey Simpkins and Bill Wennington Coaches: Jim Cleamons, Phil Jackson, Erik Helland, John Paxson, Jimmy Rodgers and Tex Winter Front Office Members: Ivica Dukan, Clarence Gaines, Jr., Jerry Krause, John Ligmanowski, Chip Schaefer, Jim Stack and Al Vermeil For the first class, in addition to the general evaluation criteria, all individual players have been honored by the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame or have had their retirement banners raised at the United Center.

To learn more and sign up for updates, please visit Bulls.com/RingofHonor. To buy tickets for the January 12 game, please visit Bulls. com/tickets.

NBA LEGEND STEVE FRANCES AND FRANCES FAMILY FOUNDATION PLEDGE $1.5 MILLION TO PROJECT HOOD’S LEADERSHIP AND ECONOMIC OPPORTUNITY CENTER Chicago, IL – Project HOOD is thrilled to announce a game-changing $1.5 Million pledge from the Frances Family Foundation, led by NBA legend Steve Frances, towards its ambitious Capital Campaign for the Leadership and Economic Opportunity Center.

Steve Frances, celebrated for his dynamic career in the NBA and his philanthropic endeavors, aligns his foundation’s mission with Project HOOD’s vision of fostering leadership and economic growth in Chicago’s South Side.

The Leadership and Economic Opportunity Center is set to be a hub of hope and transformation in the community. It will feature advanced facilities for vocational training, business incubation, and leadership programs, empowering the youth and adults of the South Side to unlock their full potential.

Project HOOD (Helping Others Obtain Destiny) focuses on empowering Chicago’s South Side through education, employment, entrepreneurship, and leadership development.

Led by NBA star Steve Frances, the Frances Family Foundation supports initiatives in education, community development, and social justice.

C Theater47 Brings Broadway-Style Shows to South Suburbs C

South Suburban | Week of December 20, 2023

SOUTH SUBURBAN

Continued from page 1 list. Her vision has come to fruition, with shows having Ruffin and waiting lists his wife, Tammie, for people to opened Theater47, attend. located at 371 ArtRuffin ists Walk in Park doesn’t want to Forest, Illinois five be a cookie cutyears ago. Prior to ter, so the seaopening the thesons start with ater in Park Forest, his intuition as Ruffin wrote and to when Theproduced plays at ater47 should Harold Washingdo a show. He ton Cultural Center moves accordat 47th and King ing to his spirit, Drive. which he says Some of Rufkeeps it fresh fin’s early plays and new.

Theater47 mounts Broadway-style productions which are written by John Ruffin. PHOTO has written include “I’m gratePROVIDED BY THEATER47.

“Love Me or Leave ful that I have Me,” “The Ideal my own venue Husband” and “If She Only Knew.” His Broadway-style that I don’t have that pressure of putting up a season shows include “The Phyllis Hyman Story,” “Turn Off right away,” he said. the Lights: The Teddy Pendergrass Story,” “Imitation Ruffin said using his intuition for the start of the of Life” and “Black Nativity.” season also keeps the audiences intrigued and on One of the things Ruffin wants to bring light to, their toes. In addition to the shows being performed is the mental illness that affects some of the subjects at the venue, the shows also go on a national tour. It of the shows he produces. He wants to bring light to was always Ruffin’s vision to have a local venue and a those people’s stories to help their legacy. national tour of the shows. He has trained the people “I always look at when I’m doing a show, is what and create new stars with his shows. would I want people to clear up about my name, my The tour starts in February 2024, with the “Phyllis brand, when I’m not here. Something my family can Hyman Story.” Other shows for 2024 include “Refocus on and be proud of,” Ruffin said. member the Time: The Michael Jackson Story,” “The When it comes to running a business as a married Tammie Terrell Story” and “The Bobby Womack Stocouple, Tammie handles the front office and adminry.” This year’s season ended on Dec. 17th, with the istrative part of the theater, and John handles the “Teddy Pendergrass Story.” artistic part of the business. They have learned how “The vision for Theater47 was always for it to be to work synergistically, which keeps the peace. an incubator and then from there, take those same “For five years, we’ve had nothing but sold out talents and give them to the world,” Ruffin said. shows,” Ruffin said, crediting word of mouth for the Ruffin wants to continue to bring the option of success. quality entertainment to the South Suburbs.

Tammie Ruffin had a vision that the theater For more information about Theater47, visit would be so successful that there would be a waiting www.theater47.com.

BY TIA CAROL JONES

Jim Guilinger Award Presented to Lt. Governor Juliana Stratton Decatur, Ill. – Lieutenant Governor Juliana Stratton received the Jim Guilinger Legislative Award from the Illinois Leadership Council for Agricultural Education (ILCAE). This award recognizes the Lieutenant Governor’s service and dedication to the expansion of agricultural education across the state.

“I am honored to receive this year’s Jim Guilinger Legislative Award. More importantly, though, I always say ‘Ag Connects Us All’ and this is a reminder that the work we do as leaders to uplift and strengthen Illinois’ number one industry is more critical now than ever before,” said Lt. Governor Juliana Stratton. “As Chair of the Governor’s Rural Affairs Council, I understand how crucial it is that we engage our young people in the agricultural process and that starts by supporting

agricultural education. Our work must continue so that nutrient-dense foods are accessible to all communities in Illinois.”

This recognition demonstrates the successful leadership and advocacy of the Office of the Lieutenant Governor. Lt. Governor Stratton’s work on the Governor’s Rural Affairs Council, coupled with initiatives like ‘Ag Connects Us All’, is centered on promoting educational and professional opportunities for underrepresented communities and eliminating food insecurity across Illinois.

The award was received after the ILCAE’s Annual Meeting at the Dwayne O. Andreas Agriculture Academy, in Decatur, Illinois. The Jim Guilinger awards are named after Jim Guilinger who spent 56 years dedicated to agricultural education until his passing in 2002.

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South Suburban | Week of December 20, 2023

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SOUTH SUBURBAN

Need Extra Cash This Holiday Season?

You May Have Cash or Property Waiting to be Claimed at illinoistreasurer. gov/ICASH

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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Chicag o Westside Communities, Austin and Garfi el d Park

SUBURBAN TIMES WEEKLY Bloom Township, Chicago Heights, Flossmoor, Ford Heights, Glenwood, Homewood, Lansing ,Lynwood, Olympia Fileds, Park Forest, Sauk Village, South Chicago and Steger Citizen Newspaper Group Inc., (CNGII), Publisher of the ChathamSoutheast, South End, Chicago Weekend, South Suburban and Hyde Park Citizen and Citizen Suburban Times Weekly. Our weekly publications are published on Wednesday’s (publishing 52 issues annually). Written permission is required to reproduce contents in whole or in part from the publisher. Citizen Newspaper Group, Inc. does not assume the responsibility for nor are we able to return unsolicited materials, therefore they become property of the newspaper and can or will be discarded or used at the newspapers disgratation. Deadlines for advertising is every Friday at noon. Deadlines for press releases are Thursdays at 10 am prior to the next week’s edition. Please send press release information to: editorial@citizennewspapergroup.com. For more information on subscriptions or advertising, call us at (773) 7831251 or fax (872) 208-8793. Our offices are located at 8741 South Greenwood Suite# 107, Chicago, Illinois 60619.

ELIZABETH “LIZZIE G” ELIE LICENSED REALTOR

SPRINGFIELD – Christmas, treasurer’s missing money dataHappy Holidays, Santa, Rudolph, base. When a matching name and and even Scrooge are among mailing address is identified and the millions of names in Illinois’ confirmed, the unclaimed property missing money database with owner will receive a letter from the cash and property waiting to be Treasurer’s Office that describes claimed, Illinois State Treasurer the amount and source of the monMichael Frerichs said. ey. The Treasure’s Office conducts “It’s the most wonderful time one additional security step before of the year and returning mississuing a check. All recipients have ing money to the rightful owners to do is watch the mail and cash is even more special during this the check. season,” Frerichs said. “Who Frerichs also has added a wouldn’t want extra money they Friends and Family “share” feaforgot about to pay for holidays ture. When visitors to the I-CASH gifts? Enter your name at illinoiswebsite come across the name treasuer.gov/icash to find out if of someone they know, they can you have some extra holiday cash select the “share” icon and provide or property to claim.” the email address of their friend or What is unclaimed property? relative. Frerichs’ office then will It is money or accounts within notify the individual by sending an financial institutions or compaemail that mentions the missing nies in which there has been no money, along with the name of the activity for several years and the friend or relative who spotted it. legal owner has not responded Then, that individual can start the to inquiries by the business. In process of retrieving it.

Illinois, that money goes to the The Treasurer’s Office recState Treasurer, who is tasked ommends that people check for with safeguardmissing money ing unclaimed at least twice An estimated one-in-four adults in a year. You can property, such Illinois who search the treasurer’s check illinoisas unpaid life insurance bentreasurer.gov/ database find missing money, efits, forgotten to see if and the average claim is $1,000. icash bank accounts missing money Frerichs has returned more than is waiting for and unused rebate cards. $1.9 billion in unclaimed property you.

An estimatThe Illinois during his tenure. ed one-in-four State Treasuradults in Illinois er’s Office is a who search the treasurer’s datapowerful economic engine that base find missing money, and the invests in people to drive prosaverage claim is $1,000. Frerichs perity, development and growth has returned more than $1.9 billion throughout the state. As State in unclaimed property during his Treasurer, Michael Frerichs tenure.

(FRAIR’-iks) is the state’s Chief The record-setting perforInvestment and Banking Officer mance is the result of a complete and actively manages approxirestructuring of the missing money mately $55 billion. The investprocess under Frerichs. The state ments help families pay for treasurer’s office has added eleccollege and trade school; workers tronic claims, eliminated red tape save for a dignified retirement; that slowed small money claims, and local governments process and leveraged technology to allow bill payments more efficiently so payments to be made without a they can pass along the savings claim even needing to be filed. to taxpayers. The office provides When Frerichs first became financial institutions money to treasurer, there were 60,000 loan to farmers, small business claims paid in a year. Today, more owners, and qualified individuals than 200,000 claims are paid each at below-market rates because year. better jobs create stronger comIn recent months, the Treamunities. The office operates the surer’s Office has sent out letters state’s largest consumer-proto more than 140,000 people tection initiative, the unclaimed through the Enhanced Money property I-Cash program, which Match program, which leveraghas returned a record-breaking es data already collected by the $1.8 billion since Frerichs was state and crossmatches it with the elected.

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POLITICAL AFFAIRS

SHERIFF DART, ILLINOIS SECRETARY OF STATE GIANNOULIAS PARTNER TO PROVIDE STATE ID CARDS TO INDIVIDUALS LEAVING COOK COUNTY JAIL Cook County Sheriff Thomas J. Dart and Illinois Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias announced today a partnership to provide State Identification Cards for individuals leaving Cook County Jail.

The partnership is the first of its kind for a county jail.

Government issued IDs are critical for enrolling in educational programs, onboarding for jobs as well as obtaining housing and government benefits. Individuals in custody may have lost their ID cards or they may have expired while in custody, and they may face challenges in attempting to renew them after returning to the community.

“We know that people who have a safe place to live, are receiving services they need, and are employed are less likely to reoffend,” Sheriff Dart said. “Having a government-issued ID is the first step to obtaining those things. So, this initiative not only helps people with their individual needs but also helps public safety.”

The program is initially working with individuals who either have previously applied for a State ID card or driver’s license, or have access to documents, such as birth certificates and social security cards, to apply for the first time. The program will gradually expand to provide IDs to everyone in Cook County Jail custody.

“Providing individuals who have completed their sentences with essential resources and tools upon their release increases their chances to successfully re-enter society, become self-sufficient and rebuild their lives,” Secretary Giannoulias said. “A valid state ID will help them with basic needs like locating housing, securing a job, opening a bank account, enrolling in assistance programs, and attaining reliable transportation. Fulfilling these basic needs reduces recidivism, saves taxpayer money, and makes our communities stronger.”

Sheriff ’s Office staff will work with the interested participants to complete the application forms and take photographs. If necessary, Sheriff ’s Office staff can also help first-time applicants with accessing vital documents they already have such as birth certificates or social security cards.

The collected information will be sent electronically via a secure transfer to the Secretary of State’s Office. After the Secretary of State’s Office staff determines applicants have met the requirements for an ID card, they will be mailed to their residences.

Prior to the partnership with the Secretary of State’s Office, Cook County Jail worked with the Chicago City Clerk’s Office to provide municipal ID cards for individuals in custody who were Chicago residents.

The Secretary of State’s Office launched a similar program in 2021 for returning residents released from Illinois Department of Corrections custody, issuing more than 2,100 ID cards to program participants to date.

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BUSINESS

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South Suburban | Week of December 20, 2023

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BECA Founder Jerri DeVard Announced to 2024 Advertising Hall of Fame

UrbanGeekz unveils inaugural UrbanGeekz 50 List (PRNEWSFOTO/URBANGEEKZ)

UrbanGeekz Unveils Inaugural UrbanGeekz 50 to Showcase Gamechangers in Tech, Innovation and Entrepreneurship

ATLANTA, PRNewswire -- Award-winning digital media brand UrbanGeekz has published its first-ever 2023 UrbanGeekz 50 List.

Drawing from their editorial work the inaugural list showcases the most innovative, imaginative, and inspirational Black leaders in venture, technology, and entrepreneurship. Standout changemakers such as Kelly Burton, Marlon Nichols, Tope Awotona, and Izzy Obeng are just some of the honorees featured.

The list’s 10 distinct verticals highlight mainly, although not exclusively tech-enabled ventures.

The categories are Venture; Software; FinTech; AI and Machine Learning, Digital Media; Food, Climate & Health; Business-to-Consumer; Community Builders & Ecosystem Warriors, Africa, and Europe.

“It’s an honor and privilege to curate this list celebrating Black excellence across the innovation economy,” said Kunbi Tinuoye, founder and CEO of UrbanGeekz. “Our goal is to profile and celebrate visionaries making an impact, breaking boundaries, and inspiring others to do better.”

Published by UrbanGeekz and presented by MHR International the class of 2023 was selected and curated by the news site’s editorial team.

However, to broaden the selection process UrbanGeekz reached out to well-respected ecosystem leaders such as Ollen Douglass, Andrea Hoffman, and Mike Ross for recommendations.

“In our 2023 listicle, we feature eight outstanding individuals leading unicorn companies,” adds Tinuoye. “Black-led unicorns are rare. We showcase these leaders to inspire and influence the next generation of ambitious innovators.”

“By far our largest category is Community Builders & Ecosystem Warriors. We recognize that these operators often lay the foundation for success. They work tirelessly behind the scenes providing much-needed support for Black founders to thrive,” she adds.

“We also highlight visionaries from Africa and Europe. We are well aware that these regions, especially countries like Nigeria, Rwanda, and South Africa, are fast-growing tech hubs. As our global footprint continues to grow these markets will continue to be key regions for our brand.”

“What’s important to note is this is not a definitive list. Rather we’d describe it as a snapshot of talent. So, for instance, we have already published well-received listicles on venture capital but almost all the people highlighted in those articles don’t feature on UrbanGeekz 50. We simply do not have the capacity in a list of 50. We also believe it’s important to highlight other unsung heroes. The listicle will be updated annually.”

“Finally, we also need to give a special shoutout to Albert Lewis and Erica Billups Johnson from Archetype, a leading global communications agency that partners with creators and industry leaders to build compelling brands.

Billups Johnson is also the co-creator and co-lead of Archetype Ascend, a division within Archetype focused on providing branding, strategic communications, and support for Black and Brown founders, executives, and VCs. We are so grateful to have collaborated with these experts on the visuals and branding for this project.”

“We were thrilled to have partnered with UrbanGeekz on this project,” said Billups Johnson, Senior Vice President at Archetype. “Our goal at Archetype Ascend is to increase the visibility of exceptional BIPOC founders, leaders, and investors. This initiative was a perfect fit for us, and we look forward to collaborating with UrbanGeekz and other BIPOC leaders on other media-related campaigns.”

Presenting sponsor MHR International is an Atlanta-based management consulting firm specializing in Program & Construction Management, Strategic Business Consulting, and Diversity & Inclusion Initiatives.

NEW YORK, PRNewswire -- Jerri DeVard, founder of The Black Executive CMO Alliance (BECA), an alliance of Black marketing executives from iconic consumer and business-to-business brands and companies across the globe, was announced to the Advertising Hall of Fame by the American Advertising Federation on Wednesday, November 29 at the Closing Bell Ceremony of the NYSE. The announcement came just before BECA celebrated the graduation of its first class of marketing leaders from The BECA Playbook and announced initiatives for 2024.

As a pioneering marketing executive and one of the highest-ranking Black female leaders among others who didn’t look like her, DeVard exemplifies the AAF Advertising Hall of Achievement. She will be officially inducted during Advertising’s Biggest Night, April 25, 2024 at an invite-only event at Cipriani.

With over 30 years of unparalleled dedication and expertise in marketing and leadership, DeVard has not only excelled in the dynamic world of marketing but remains a beacon of inspiration for aspiring Black marketers everywhere.

“Receiving this award is both an honor and a testament to the power of perseverance and passion in a landscape where Black marketers and leaders are often the one and only in the room,” DeVard said. “This award symbolizes not just my personal achievements but also the collaborative efforts of an incredible and inspiring team of colleagues, mentors and friends who have been instrumental in my career and in founding BECA. I extend my deepest appreciation to those who have been part of this remarkable journey.”

DeVard founded BECA in 2021 to provide a safe and trusted space for Black marketing executives to share, learn, elevate and pay it forward to champion and continue working toward diversity in the C-suite. BECA started with 26 members and has grown to 38.

BECA has also announced the graduation of its first class of Future Leaders and welcomed its third incoming cohort to The BECA Playbook, a two-year mentorship journey to propel the careers of select, nominated Black ‘Future Leaders’ on the marketing path to the C-suite. The first class of business leaders graduated on Nov. 30, during a celebration at Paramount HQ in Times Square.

The BECA Playbook offers unique learning and mentorship modules such as one-on-one coaching, C-suite network building, branded credentials and certifications, curated learning experiences, and more. Companies represented in the first graduating cohort are BET, CBS, Cadillac, Deloitte, General Motors, Harman International, Kohl’s, Mars Wrigley, PayPal, Procter & Gamble, SC Johnson, Starbucks, and UPS. The new Future Leaders cohort includes professionals representing the following entities: Autodesk, Deloitte, Delta Air Lines, Ecolab, General Motors, Harman International, Johnson & Johnson, Marriott International, Nike, Paramount, Procter & Gamble, SC Johnson, Snap, and UPS. For more information on BECA, visit www.blackexec. com and follow @TheofficialBECA on Twitter and Black Executive CMO Alliance on LinkedIn, Instagram and Facebook.

The Black Executive CMO Alliance℠ is a 501(c)(3) organization providing member Black marketing executives based in the U.S. and Europe a safe and trusted space to share, learn, elevate and pay it forward to create opportunity, access, and equality for the current and next generation of Black marketing leaders.

The Advertising Hall of Fame celebrates industry legends who have distinguished themselves with outstanding, globally-recognized achievements; remarkable innovations; and exceptional philanthropic work both within the advertising industry and in their communities.

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PEPSICO CHICAGO EMPLOYEES GIFT OVER $1 MILLION TO NONPROFITS DURING OCTOBER; COMPANY ANNOUNCES NEW GRANTS TO SUPPORT CHICAGOANS The Efforts Expands Local Partnerships in Community Development, Education, Healthcare and Workforce Development

CHICAGO — Employees in PepsiCo’s organizations to increase access to career access to career resources for young peodowntown Chicago office at the Old Post resources and are proud to announce 11 ple in Chicago’s South and West Sides. To Office showed that their commitment to new grants totaling nearly $90,000 to learn more, visit pepsistrongertogether. giving back goes well beyond the holiday support vital work being led by changecom/communities/chicago. season. During October, they volunteered makers like GoodKidsMadCity. The holPepsiCo products are enjoyed by nearly 1,400 hours alongside neighbors as iday season is in full swing while giving consumers more than one billion times part of “PepsiCo Gives Back,” the comseason is an important fundraising peri- a day in more than 200 countries and pany’s annual global giving and service od, PepsiCo uses its financial, commerterritories around the world. PepsiCo campaign. Chicago-based employees who cial and human assets to be an impactful generated more than $86 billion in net are part of local PepsiCo Beverages North community partner year-round--helping revenue in 2022, driven by a compleAmerica, Quaker Oats, Frito-Lay North create opportunities for others and our mentary beverage and convenient foods America, Gatorade Performance and other local business.” portfolio that includes Lay’s, Doritos, teams also donated $1,225,008 toward PepsiCo and the PepsiCo Foundation’s Cheetos, Gatorade, Pepsi-Cola, Mountain nonprofits—gifts that were matched by most recent grant recipients include: Dew, Quaker, and SodaStream. PepsiCo’s the PepsiCo Foundation 2:1.

Community Development product portfolio includes a wide range of A recent day of giving back included Operation Warm enjoyable foods and beverages, including nearly 100 PepsiCo Chicago employees TGi Movement many iconic brands that generate more packing 2,000 backpacks filled with IMAN than $1 billion each in estimated annual 8,000 nutritious, shelf-stable ‘Food for Education retail sales.

Good’ meals, which reached neighbors Casa Central Guiding PepsiCo is our vision to and students through Ladies of Virtue, Healthcare Be the Global Leader in Beverages and Chicago Jesuit Academy, Casa Central, Esperanza Health Centers Convenient Foods by Winning with pep+ Breakthrough Urban Ministries and HowWorkforce Development (PepsiCo Positive). pep+ is our strateard Brown Health.

Breakthrough Urban Ministries gic end-to-end transformation that puts “PepsiCo Chicago employees lean in Central States SER sustainability and human capital at the to support local nonprofits like no othChicago Veterans center of how we will create value and er team—all year round,” said Tameka GoodKidsMadCity-Englewood growth by operating within planetary McBride, Senior Vice President of ComPODER boundaries and inspiring positive change mercial, Central Division, PepsiCo BevHACE for planet and people. For more informaerages North America. “Together for the Through PREP (Pathways to Readition, visit www.pepsico.com, and follow last few years, we’ve been working with ness and Empowerment Program), Pepon Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, and T:10.75" South and West Side-based community siCo is investing $5 million to increase LinkedIn @PepsiCo.

T:6.5"

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SOUTH SUBURBAN

Biden-Harris Administration Announces $93 Million in Grants The U.S. Department of and Minority-Serving Instituprogram. The RDI program pro- to equitably improve postsecondFor HBCUs and MSIs, the Education (Department) antions (MSIs), and to improve vides funds to HBCUs, TCCUs, ary student outcomes, including grant will support institutions in nounced today $93 million in completion rates for underserved and MSIs to transform their retention, transfer, credit accuincreasing their level of research grant awards to 20 colleges and students. research infrastructure, including mulation, and completion, by le- activity in alignment with the universities to support research The grants are being provid- strengthening research produc- veraging data and implementing, Carnegie Classification designaand development at Historically ed under the Research and Detivity, faculty expertise, physical scaling, and rigorously evaluating tions to move from the Doctoral Black Colleges and Universities velopment Infrastructure (RDI) infrastructure, and partnerships evidence-based approaches. and Professional Universities (HBCUs), Tribally Controlled Col- program and the Postsecondary leading to increases in external This funding builds on the (D/PU) classification toward the leges and Universities (TCCUs), Student Success Grant (PSSG) funding. The PSSG program aims more than $25 billion in funding Doctoral Universities with High to HBCUs, MSIs, and TCCUs Research Activity (R2) classifithrough the Department since cation. It also will increase their President Biden took office. classification from the Doctoral Specifically, $7.3 billion in Universities with High Research cumulative investments in HB- Activity (R2) toward the Doctoral CUs, $474.5 million for TCCUs, Universities with Very High Reand $18.1 billion for MSIs. search Activity (R1) category. For “The Biden-Harris Admin- TCCUs, the funds will support an Our early learning istration recognizes the urgency increase in research activities, programs offer: of this moment in higher undergraduate research opporeducation and that creating tunities, faculty development, Quality education opportunities for students of research development, and Healthy meals color and other underserved infrastructure, including physical students to succeed in today’s infrastructure and human capital Parent support most cutting-edge fields has development. Because of their Supportive community never mattered more,” said U.S. central role in educating underSecretary of Education Miguel served students, including stuFree for Cardona. “These grant awards dents of color, it is important for eligible will help many of our nation’s HBCUs, TCCUs, and MSIs to excel families! most inclusive and diverse col- in research activity that can imleges and universities expand pact funding, faculty and student their capacity to drive research recruitment, student research and innovation, and propel opportunities, and promote dimore students to graduation versity in graduate students and day and fulfilling careers. This faculty at an institution. is how we Raise the Bar for Nine institutions are recollege excellence and attainceiving grants through PSSG to ment in this country and close fund evidence-based strategies Grant your child a high-quality education from equity gaps in higher education that result in improved outthat have no place in the 21st comes for underserved students.

Illinois Action for Children. century.”

The funding is being awarded RDI program grants are be- to six grantees that are in the ing awarded to five HBCUs, two early phase and three grantees Contact us to learn if you’re eligible for free child care at TCCUs, three Hispanic-Servin the mid-phase/expansion 708-365-1500 or visit: earlylearning.actforchildren.org/enroll-now. ing Institutions (HSIs), and a phase, based upon the amount dual HSI and Asian American of existing research validating and Native American Pacific their effectiveness in improving Islander-Serving Institution student postsecondary education (AANAPISI). outcomes.

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South Suburban School Gives Back with Free Holiday Haircuts for Students PARK FOREST, Ill. — During Mays said that the barbers these challenging economic times were excited to come to the school for some families, Dr. Shernita again after a great reception last Mays, principal of the Illinois year. Mays said that parents told School in Park Forest, knows that her that haircuts can cost as much providing haircuts can be an extra as $40. expense for families whose budgets “It makes the kids happy,” said are already stretched.

Kevin Phipps, owner of the Phipps “With all of the difficulties Barbering Academy in Richton in the world today, the staff and Park. “When you look better you students of Illinois School want to feel better and when you feel better make sure that our families know you do better.” that we care and understand the Mays said that during the hardships that many of us face holiday season the school, which today,” Mays said. serves grades kindergarten through On Friday, December 8, a eighth grade, has made a commitment to show kindness to the group of barbers from the nearby school’s families and the larger Phipps Academy of Barbering in Richton Park came to the school to community.

During the month of Decemgive free haircuts to students who ber, Mays said that the Illinois signed up for the service. school community “will be warmThe school’s gym was transformed into a barbershop with clip- ing the hearts of someone else” by pers buzzing throughout the day. It collecting new hats, mittens and is the second year that the barbers scarves to donate to The Cancer have donated their time and talent Support Center in Homewood, to give haircuts to students at Illinois. The school is also collecting Illinois School. coats for a local shelter.

“This wonderful act of kind“It’s a wonderful way for our ness will help our families and children to help others during the make our students feel great as holidays,” Mays said. “Showing care we enter into the holiday season,” and concern for our community is a Mays said. lesson that lasts a lifetime.”

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The Chicago Scots Will Transform Elder Care with Huge $14 M Gift Chicago, Ill. – The Chicago Scots, Illinois’ first have a 39% increased risk of dying early. and oldest non-profit organization, has received a “Chicago Scots will realign its mission to profoundational $14 million gift from The Negaunee vide for future unmet needs of seniors in Chicago,” Foundation to launch a program to meet the future said Charles Gonzalez, Chair of the Chicago Scots Board of Governors. “Our mission will be made unmet needs of Chicago’s senior population.

The largest donation in the organization’s 178- manifest in a model of living designed to connect people through comprehensive, high-touch care year history, it enables the Chicago Scots to begin a campaign to boldly transform its legacy building, based on community and companionship.”

Chicago Scots own and operate the five-acre the Scottish Home at Caledonia Senior Living & Caledonia Senior Living & Memory Care comMemory Care, in North Riverside into a model of munity as its principal charitable purpose based living that relieves the social distress of aging.

“In just a few years there will be many millions around the 114-year-old Scottish Home and sevenyear-old MacLean House just 15 minutes from of older Americans without the wealth to pay for downtown Chicago. long-term care as it is currently configured but Chicago Scots will collaborate with the Alford with too much to qualify for government support,” Group on its transformation plans. “Time and said Gus Noble, President and CEO. again throughout their long history, Chicago Scots “They are the ‘forgotten middle.’ They will have positioned and repositioned themselves to want to live collaboratively in community with be relevant in the field of care. I am honored to others, to be connected and not isolated, to be social and not lonely. The Negaunee Foundation’s bring the expertise of the Alford Group to support incredible gift will empower us to relieve distress Gus and the Board as they bring this innovative caused by aging – medical, cognitive, and social.” realignment of purpose to reality,” said the Alford The baby-boomer generation, now estimated Group’s Don Cooke.

The Negaunee Foundation is a Chicago to number 73 million, is rapidly aging and by 2030 non-profit foundation that supports cultural, all will have turned 65. Many are likely to face the human and financial costs of social isolation, historical, educational institutions and museums, along with performing arts organizations in Chiwhich are already massive and set to increase.

The National Academies of Science, Engineer- cagoland.

“The Negaunee Foundation enables and ing & Medicine report that social isolation poses a health risk to seniors equivalent to high blood encourages all of us in the Scottish community, pressure, smoking or obesity. A November 2023 the field of senior care, throughout Chicagoland, study by Glasgow University reported that seniors and across the country – kith and kin – to dream who lack social connection with family and friends together,” said Gus Noble.

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Azazie and Former Bachelorette, Charity Lawson, Host a Bridal Tea Luncheon

Photo Courtesy of Moises Martinez.

LOS ANGELES, PRNewswire -- Former Bachelorette, Charity Lawson, hosted an exquisite tea luncheon with made-to-order evening wear brand, Azazie, in celebration of bridesto-be & their beloved bridal party. Charity was joined by Vanderpump Rules star Charli Burnett, actress Danielle Campbell, and top tier influencers for an afternoon of elegance at the Peninsula Hotel Beverly Hills. Attendees arrived in dazzling dresses from Azazie, offered in sizes 0-30. Check out their stunning looks below!

Azazie is the leading DTC e-tailer for bridal gowns, bridesmaid dresses, special occasion wear and accessories, Azazie offers direct-to-consumer, high-quality, gowns at affordable prices. Based in the tech capital of Silicon Valley, Azazie is disrupting the traditional bridal industry while garnering high ratings from customers and review sites alike. With 200+ bridal gowns and 400+ bridal party dresses in over 80 colors, Azazie is committed to body-positive fashion, offering all dresses from size 0-30, cut and sewn to order like expensive bespoke designs. Azazie has appeared on The Today Show, CNBC and other top media outlets and won the Glossy Beauty and Fashion Award for the Best E-Commerce Experience in addition to being recognized as one of Newsweek’s Fastest Growing Online Shops in 2022. Visit the website at www.azazie.com.

Photo Courtesy of Moises Martinez.

Luvme Hair’s #LUVMEPOPUP NYC Event: A Remarkable Success NEW YORK, PRNewswire -- Luvme Hair, a leading brand in the hair industry, recently hosted its first-ever event, the Switching It Up Tour #LUVMEPOPUP, held from November 11th-13th in Brooklyn.

The event proved to be a resounding success, attracting hair enthusiasts and offering an immersive experience showcasing a wide array of Luvme Hair wigs and premium hair care products.

Throughout the #LUVMEPOPUP event, attendees had the opportunity to explore Luvme Hair’s diverse range of innovative products, including headband wigs, lace front wigs, body wave wigs, and more. These high-quality offerings were showcased alongside personalized styling sessions, further highlighting Luvme Hair’s dedication to offering both exceptional products and expert guidance for a luvmehair #LUVMEPOPUP NYC Event. Luvme Hair complete customer experience. #LUVMEPOPUP event in Brooklyn, New York for around 10 years. Luvme started with long and short drew in a large number of customers, all excited to wigs, but now we have variations including afro, frontal, explore the brand’s offerings and join in the festivi360, braided wigs, and various other types that offer ties. Throughout the event, more than 3000 gifts were women the opportunity to express themselves freely generously distributed, adding to the overall excitement with their hair. There’s a range of densities, thicknesses, and joy of the experience. Yolanda, a dedicated Luvme and even thinness; the quality of the wigs is amazing. customer for nearly a decade, expressed her admiration You can wash them, color them, condition them, and for the brand, saying, “I have been a Luvme customer

they all maintain their quality consistently. That’s why I continue to choose Luvme.”

Founder Helena shared her thoughts on the success of the event, saying: “The incredible response to our Switching It Up Tour #LUVMEPOPUP in Brooklyn, New York has been truly remarkable. Witnessing the passion and excitement from our community reaffirms our commitment to delivering exceptional products and experiences. We’re thrilled to have connected with so many individuals and are excited about our ongoing innovation in elevating the wig industry.”

The event’s success serves as a testament to Luvme Hair’s unwavering commitment to delivering top-tier products and personalized experiences, solidifying its position as a trailblazer in the hair care sector.

Luvme Hair is a reputable brand in the hair industry, known for its high-quality HD Lace Wigs, Glueless Wigs, ready-to-go wigs, and wigs that allow individuals to effortlessly switch up their looks. With a focus on innovation, creativity, quality, and customer satisfaction, Luvme Hair has garnered a loyal customer base globally. For more information about Luvme Hair and its products, please visit their official website at shop.luvmehair.com.

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ENTERTAINMENT

The Otis Redding Foundation

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Remembers Legendary Singer 56 Years After His Passing MACON, Ga., PRNewswire -- Nicknamed the “King of Soul,” Otis Redding is regarded as one of the greatest singer-songwriters in the history of American popular music and a seminal artist in soul music, rhythm and blues,” stated Otis’ wife, Zelma Redding.

Sunday, Dec. 10, marked 56 years since Otis Redding passed away in an airplane crash in Madison, Wisc., with four members of his band, The Bar-Kays (guitarist Jimmy King, tenor saxophonist, Phalon Jones, organist, Ronnie Caldwell and drummer Carl Cunningham; their valet, Matthew Kelly and the pilot Dick Fraser. Trumpet player, Ben Cauley was the only survivor.

Otis has received numerous honors over the past 56 years including Two Grammy Awards, A Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award, induction into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, the Songwriter’s Hall of Fame, Rhythm and Blues Foundation Pioneer Award (Legacy Tribute Award) and Black Music & Entertainment Walk of Fame (Foundational Inductee). Redding is also number 9 on Rolling Stone’s 200 Best Singers of All Time (January 2023).

The Otis Redding Foundation, founded by Mrs. Zelma Redding to continue his commitment to education for young people with a focus in music and the arts, would like to thank radio, television, print media and social media for their continued support of Otis’ music. The Foundation is well underway for the opening of the new Otis Redding Center for the Arts, in Macon, GA, in the Fall of 2024. This multipurpose space will be open to students 5-18 who have a desire to explore their interest in all elements of music and the arts. The Center will be staffed with Macon’s finest musicians and educators offering private lessons in areas including piano, audio engineering, strings and more.

Since its inception in 2007, the Foundation continues to support the philanthropic commitment of Otis Redding to empower and enlighten all young people to fulfill their dreams.

Stay connected to the Otis Redding Foundation, by visiting https://otisreddingfoundation.org, on Instagram @otisreddingfoundation, on X @Otisredding, or on Facebook @Otisredding foundation.

Photo credit: Michael Ochs Archive

NEW HISTORICAL NOVEL SHARES INSPIRING STORY OF THE SYRACUSE UNIVERSITY STAR, CIVIL RIGHTS PIONEER, AND AMERICAN HERO THAT HISTORY FORGOT Sidat-Singh was also a scholar, civil rights SYRACUSE, N.Y., PRNewswire -- A riveting historical novel pioneer, World War II veteran, and one based on the real story of Wilmeth other thing—forgotten. In this novelized Sidat-Singh, the Black Syracuse account of Sidat-Singh’s life, fictional University football star who was sportswriter Breanna Shelton stumbles forced to conceal his race in order upon the compelling story of the rocket-armed Syracuse football player who to take the field, was released hid his identity in order to play, leading to today from Mascot Books. Invisible No More: A Historical Novel climactic moments when race and sports by prolific sports journalists Scott collided. As a young Black woman making Pitoniak and Rick Burton unearths her way in a profession not ready to fully the impressive life story of the athaccept her, Shelton immerses herself in lete, scholar, civil rights pioneer, the research, determined to resurrect an and American hero that history inspirational man who time left behind. forgot. The book is on sale now via Along the way, she finds courage and Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Mascot perseverance to transform herself and her Books, and more. career.

A rocket-armed passer on the Drawing on their experience as nationPRNewsFoto ally honored journalists and historians, football field and an ankle-breaking playmaker on the basketball court, Wilmeth authors Pitoniak and Burton spent years meticulous-

ly researching and conducting interviews to get to the core of their subject and the times in which he lived. Post–civil rights era society still grapples with dispiriting obstacles that Sidat-Singh faced more than a half century earlier, when he was “passing” to play, serving as a Tuskegee Airman in World War II, and interacting with luminaries such as Duke Ellington, Cab Calloway, Grantland Rice, Sam Lacy, and Joe Louis.

This fictionalized account, as timely now as ever, honors an American hero whose life was cut short while serving a country that didn’t recognize him as a full-fledged citizen because of the color of his skin.

“The story of Wilmeth Sidat-Singh is both heroic and heartbreaking,” writes NBC sportscaster Mike Tirico. “The authors place a much-needed spotlight on a forgotten superstar athlete.”

Invisible No More is on sale now from Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and Mascot Books. To learn more, visit invisiblenomorenovel.com.

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Christmas in the Wards Arrive In The Southland With Many Gifts Photos by L.M. Warbington

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Hyd Park, Chgo Weekend AND SOUTH SUBURBAN Classified SOUTH SUBURBAN C South Suburban | Week of December 20, 2023

Classifieds HOME

Winter Woes! New Survey Finds Most Americans Dread Heating Bills

(StatePoint) From using a hairdryer to warm up their sheets to cuddling with their pet, Americans will do some crafty things to stay warm in the winter—especially if it means

they can avoid turning up their thermostat.

A new survey conducted by Duck brand, which offers products that provide simple, imaginative and helpful solutions for a variety of tasks around the home, finds out why people go to such lengths.

According to the research, 61% of people dread receiving their heating bill in the winter.

While the average monthly heating bill hovers between $100 to $200, respondents say the highest bill they’ve received in recent years ranges from $200 to $300, and 76% of people say they have experienced an increase in their bill over the past five years.

“It may seem like the first thing people would do if they’re cold is to turn up their thermostat, but that’s not always the case,” says Randi Bujnovsky, product manager for Weatherization at Shurtape Technologies, LLC, the company that markets the Duck brand. “As it turns out, 80% of Americans say they have turned down their thermostat to save money in the winter.”

The chilly temperatures this time of year clearly have an impact on people’s daily habits and even their sleep. Sixty percent of Americans say they have woken up in the middle of the night due to being cold in the winter. Respondents say they have tried

LEGAL NOTICE

everything, from wearing socks and a sweatshirt to bed to sleeping with three or more blankets and using a space heater, to cut costs on their bill.

However, there is a simple task that can help solve many of these woes: home weatherization. According to the research, more than half (51%) of Americans weatherize their home to prepare for the changing seasons, and 80% of people say they have noticed a decrease in their heating bills by using weatherizing solutions, such as window insulation kits, weatherstrip seals and door draft seals that slide on the bottom of the door to block drafts.

Try Duck brand weatherization solutions to help keep the cold air out. From the Duck brand Max Strength Rolled Window Insulation Kit to the Heavy-Duty Weatherstrip Seals, there is a product for every room in the home.

“Creating a warm home during the cold weather months is easy, and yet nearly half of Americans aren’t taking advantage of the benefits of this simple task,” Bujnovsky adds. “If weatherizing the entire home seems challenging, begin with one room at a time. The survey finds the living room is the draftiest part of the home, so that is a good place to start. Installing a window kit that will add a barrier between the outdoor air and your home’s interior or putting weatherstrips around your windows can make all the difference and will help minimize energy loss.” ____________________________________

SERVICES/ HELP WANTED Nexus Liquidities ® STEVE Wozniak created the personal computer.

STEVE Jobs took that same invention to global millions.

Thus, they Both became “Apple.”

“Nexus Liquidities” created self-generating pocket money that could reach amounts of thousands without you needing the traditioanl money-generating trinity: * Stocks * Real Estate * Starting a business Yet just your own pocket money.

However, the point of this ad is that it, Nexus Liquidities, is seeking its own Steve Jobs as its own top salesperson to reach its millions.

Interested? Contact Nexus Liquidities at: 1-312-796-1737 ____________________________________

Notice is hereby given, pursuant to “An Act in relation to the use of an Assumed Business Name in the conduct or transaction of Business in the State,” as amended, that a certification was registered by the undersigned with the County Clerk of Cook County. Registration Number: Y23011261 on December 8, 2023.

Under the Assumed Business name of RON PRODUCTIONS with the business located at: 840 W SUNNYSIDE APT 19 D, CHICAGO, IL 60640. The true and real full name(s) and residence address of the owner(s)/partner(s) is: Owner/Partner Full Name AKIYA FINLEY Complete Address 840 W. SUNNYSIDE APT 19 D , CHICAGO, ILLINOIS 60604, USA . _____________________________________

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