Chatham-Southeast Citizen 2-19-2020 by CITIZEN NEWSPAPERS

CELEBRATING BLACK HISTORY MONTH

Citizen Week of Feb. 19, 2020

| Vol. 55 | No. 47 | www.citizennewspapergroup.com

CHATHAM SOUTHEAST

NEWS

Vegan fast food carryout opens on 87th Street PAGE 2

BLACK HISTORY FOCUS

Chicago’s South Side Was Big Part of the Civil Rights Era PAGE 3

(from left) Former U.S. Secretary of Education Arne Duncan and Chicago native, singer and actor Lonnie “Common” Lynn, moderated a Feb. 13, 2020 panel discussion at Malcolm X College on the West Side with students who watched a screening of an upcoming TV documentary about slain Simeon Career Academy High School basketball star Benjamin Wilson. Photo credit: Wendell Hutson

NEWS

South and West side Clergy endorse Kim Foxx PAGE 3

NEW DOCUMENTARY ABOUT BEN WILSON HIGHLIGHTS FORGIVENESS AND HEALING FROM FAMILY

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2 | CITIZEN | Chatham Southeast | Week of Feb. 19, 2020

NEWS briefly EDUCATION

THE SIEMENS FOUNDATION AND DISCOVERY EDUCATION SPARK THE FUTURE OF STEM WITH THE 2020 POSSIBILITY GRANT SWEEPSTAKES To further inspire the next generation of STEM leaders, the Siemens Foundation and Discovery Education welcome submissions to the 2020 Possibility Grant Sweepstakes. The 2020 Possibility Grant Sweepstakes offers Title 1 K-12 schools across the United States an opportunity to win a $10,000 STEM grant that can be used to purchase STEM supplies, technology or be used in any STEMrelated lab. Open through April 28, 2020, educators and educational professionals are encouraged to enter daily for a chance to win. Learn more about the 2020 Possibility Grant Sweepstakes and read the full rules by visiting https://www.siemensstemday.com/sweepstakes “The 2020 Possibility Grant and Siemens STEM Day inspires today’s learners for the STEM careers of tomorrow with engaging and innovative resources that help them explore their world,” said Lori McFarling, president of corporate education partnerships at Discovery Education. “The partnership with Siemens Foundation and Discovery Education empowers K-12 students to engineer their dreams.”

HEALTH

CAMBRIDGE UNIVERSITY PRESS PROVIDES FREE ACCESS TO CORONAVIRUS RESEARCH Cambridge University Press is providing free access to research related to the coronavirus. The outbreak of a novel coronavirus (2019-nCoV) in China and its subsequent spread has been declared a Global Health Emergency. In response, the Press has made a collection of more than 70 relevant book chapters and journal articles freely available on its website. Research in the collection has been drawn from journals including Epidemiology & Infection; Prehospital and Disaster Medicine; Infection Control & Hospital Epidemiology, and from Animal Health Research Reviews, among others. Future articles will be added to the collection once they have been published. For more information, visit https://www.cambridge.org/ core/browse-subjects/medicine/coronavirus-free-accesscollection#

LAW & POLITICS

JUDGE DAMON J. KEITH LEGACY LIVES ON AT HOWARD UNIVERSITY SCHOOL OF LAW Howard University School of Law is making certain that its distinguished alumnus, long-standing federal judge Damon J. Keith’s legacy will live on in years to come by offering a scholarship and renaming its renovated Moot Court Room in his honor. Beginning in the 2020-21 academic year, Howard Law’s Office of the Dean will award annual scholarships from The Honorable Damon J. Keith Endowed Scholarship Fund to a student who is in good standing, demonstrates financial need and has a passion for social justice and serving the community. Preference will be given to students from Keith’s hometown of Detroit, Michigan and students who are firstgeneration college or graduate students. Scholarship funds may be used to cover the cost of tuition, matriculation fees, housing, meals, books or any combination thereof.

Vegan fast food carryout opens on 87th Street BY TIA CAROL JONES

Plant-based dieting is said to be the biggest health trend of 2020 and a new South side restaurant is capitalizing on its popularity and health benefits. Plant Based Junkie, a vegan fast food carryout, opened Monday, Jan. 17, at 1635 ½ E. 87th St. Owner Bobbie Beaugard has been a vegan for 2 ½ years. She described Plant Based Junkie as junk food for vegans. And, she described herself as a junk food vegan. “I know that plant-based and veganism is becoming really, really big,” she said. “When I went vegan, it was hard for me to find things to eat.” Beaugard said she also doesn’t like to try new things and wanted to stick to more familiar things. She started telling people what she ate and they saw her eat burgers and fries. “Oh, I’m a junk food vegan, this is how I eat,” she said. “Me being vegan and started cooking and coming up with different recipes and with different things to eat, I said, ‘This would be a dope concept for a restaurant.’”

Beaugard said she wanted to have items that are familiar but plant-based or not meat. Menu items include burgers, fries, chili cheese fries, Chicago-style bratwurst nachos and tacos. “I give people an opportunity to try it and they’re like, ‘Oh my god, it’s not meat, but it’s vegan,’” she said. Beaugard said the items range in price from $7 to $14. The menu includes plantbased chicken nuggets and the Junkie Burger, which has vegan American cheese, smashed avocado, sautéed mushrooms and grilled onions, crispy onion strips, lettuce, pickles, tomato, with a garlic and onion aoli. She said the Junkie burger is a signature burger and one of her favorites, along with the nachos. “If you taste the nachos, the cheese is really good. Some people do cashew cheese. I have a non-dairy, actually vegan cheese sauce,” she said. Beaugard said her vendor for her patties is Impossible Burger. She said she taste-tested other plant-based vegan burgers but she liked Impossible better. “I was driving miles, all the way downtown to try it,” she said.

Beaguard was looking for a location for a while and chose the 87th Street location because of a family connection to the neighborhood. She also used to work down the street. “This neighborhood really didn’t have anything like that here,” she said. “It’s healthier. There’s not even options in the other restaurants.” Beaugard acknowledged that before she opened, there wasn’t a plant-based, vegan restaurant in the community. People would have to drive to Hyde Park. She said she received messages on Facebook and asked about when she was opening the restaurant. “They were saying, ‘we really need you over here.’ I told them, ‘I’m opening up for y’all I swear,’” she said. Beaugard said she is ready to let the community residents try her food. “I’m super excited. I think this will work out really well here,” she said. For more information about Plant Based Junkie, call 773-902-7467, or visit the Plant Based Junkie Chicago Facebook page.

Alderman Eyeballing Two Grocery Stores for Halsted Corridor BY WENDELL HUTSON Contributing Writer

The pending closure of Save-A-Lot in Auburn Gresham has the local alderman seeking possible replacements to avoid a food desert along the Halsted Corridor. According to Ald. David Moore (17th), he already contacted Pete’s Fresh Market and Local Market, an independent grocery store in South Shore, to peak their interest in replacing Save-A-Lot, 7908 S. Halsted St., once it closes on Feb. 22. “I have been in conversations with the mayor’s office to find another grocery store for that location and the mayor supports my efforts,” said Moore. “So far, I have contacted Local Market and Pete’s Fresh Market to peak their interests and I am now waiting to hear back from them.” Officials for Local Market and Pete’s Fresh Market did not return calls seeking comment. Unlike Pete’s Fresh Market, which is a chain grocery store, Local Market is an independently owned store by Cezary Jakubowski and his wife Eva. And last December, the couple opened the 62,000 square-foot store inside the Jeffery Plaza, 2101 E. 71st St. after being recruited by Ald. Leslie Hairston (5th).

Save-A-Lot, 7908 S. Halsted St., is set to close on Feb. 22 and marks the third major business to close along the Halsted Corridor in Auburn Gresham in the past seven months. Photo credit: Wendell Hutson

The Save-A-Lot closure will mark the third major business to close along Halsted Street in the past seven months. Last July, Bank of America closed 16 Chicago branches, including one at 7900 S. Halsted St., and last month, CVS Pharmacy closed its store at 7858 S. Halsted St. Finding replacements for those two retailers have been challenging, contends Moore. “The Bank of America Building is still being used because it is getting a lot of foot traffic from the ATM,” he said. “But I am still in talks with other banks to see if they are interested in coming to Auburn Gresham. It’s going to take some time to replace these businesses, but I am confident I will get it done.”

CELEBRATING BLACK HISTORY MONTH

Sarah Griffin, a spokeswoman for Save-A-Lot, did not return phone calls seeking comment by press time. But Steve Doss, store manager at Save-A-Lot, confirmed all 15 employees working at the Halsted store have been reassigned. He said he’s glad everyone decided to stay and added due to the closure, he’ll move to the Save-A-Lot on 7240 S. Stony Island. One after another, major retailers are exiting the Halsted Corridor, but Moore said the city’s new INVEST South/ West initiative was designed to jumpstart economic development in communities experiencing a business decline. Mayor Lori Lightfoot said she met with Moore and would assist him to bring new

businesses to the corridor. “My team and I will be working with Alderman Moore and every member of the City Council to bring much-needed economic development throughout the South and West Sides,” Lightfoot told the Citizen. “Seventy-ninth street in Auburn Gresham is one of the key corridors that INVEST South/West will directly target with needed resources and assistance in bringing longterm viable tenants to revive the community.” She added that INVEST South/West aims to leverage $750 million in resources from public, private and nonprofit sectors to revitalize commercial corridors in 10, economically challenged neighborhoods. Those neighborhoods are Roseland, South Chicago, Auburn Gresham, Englewood, South Shore, New City, Humboldt Park, Austin, North Lawndale, and Quad Communities. “Auburn Gresham was among the neighborhoods identified by this new program and I am confident it will help rebuild our local economy,” said Moore. “The people of the 17th Ward deserve better and I won’t stop until my constituents have the same quality of life as residents in more affluent communities.”

CITIZEN | Chatham Southeast | Week of Feb. 19, 2020

NEWS

BLACK HISTORY

In 1956, Chicago Historian Timuel Black (far right) invited Dr. King (far left) to give a speech at the University of Chicago. In 2003, along with many of his other historian papers, Black donated King’s 1956 speech to the Vivian G. Harsh Research Collection at Woodson Regional Library, 9525 S. Halsted St. Photo credit: Courtesy of the Vivian G. Harsh Research Collection

Cook County State’s Attorney Kim Foxx accepts the endorsement of clergy from the South and West Sides at an event on Tuesday, Feb. 11, at First Baptist Congregational Church of Chicago. Photo Credit: Tia Carol Jones

South and West side Clergy endorse Kim Foxx BY TIA CAROL JONES

Cook County State’s Attorney Kim Foxx stood surrounded by clergy members from the South and West sides as they endorsed her to continue the work she has done in that office for the last four years. The endorsement took place at First Baptist Congregational Church of Chicago where the Rev. George W. Daniels is the pastor. Referring to the church’s history and its place in civil rights, Daniels said, “It has been on the forefront of the civil rights movement. It’s always active,” he said. “It’s just exciting to know that we are here.” The Reverend Ira Acree, of Greater St. John Bible Church, said he was excited to be in the presence of other church leaders. “I am very excited about the work that Kim Foxx has done,” he said. “She has kept her promise, she said she was going to reform the criminal justice system. Eleven more people had their crimes exonerated. That’s a big deal.” Acree said the work Foxx has done in Cook County has become something other communities have started to do. “Because of the way black and brown people were treated, no parity, no equity, just a system of apartheid, this young lady said not on my watch,” he said. “The work that she has done here in

this county has now become a National model for Urban America.” The Rev. Dr. Otis Moss III of Trinity United Church of Christ said he stands with Foxx because she is qualified and progressive. “She is dismantling the mass incarceration system,” he said. “Now, we have an attorney for the people, we are excited and we stand with her.” Moss said the coalition of church leaders that stand with Foxx are a marker of communities across the land. “We are supporting her because she is one who is deeply committed to our community,” he said. Bishop Larry Trotter, of Sweet Holy Spirit Church of Chicago, said Foxx’s record as State’s Attorney speaks for itself. “At the end of the day, she is the woman who is helping our young people. She is the one our young people look up to. We believe she is the woman for the job,” he said. Trotter recited the verse in Esther, “she came into the kingdom for such a time as this.” “Kim is one of ours. We’re going to be pushing Kim Foxx back into the seat that she may continue to do the work,” he said. Other clergy described Foxx as a champion of criminal justice reform and they talked about how she righted the wrongs of wrongly incarcerated people. Foxx said she grew up in the Black Church and was encour-

aged to be surrounded by so many Black ministers. “It has been the faith community that has pulled me through some of the most difficult moments,” she said. She said there is a reason why she talks about her upbringing in Cabrini Green wherever she goes. “It is testimony for me, to be able to know what’s possible when our leaders invest in those communities,” she said. “But that’s what we’re fighting for, our young people in neighborhoods in all across the city.” Foxx also talked about the way the criminal justice system was being used as an oppressive tool against poor people and how she was committed to righting the wrongs of the past. She also discussed the distrust between the Black community and law enforcement. “We have to be just as intentional of righting the wrongs of the past. It’s admitting the war on drugs was really a war on poor, black people,” she said. “It’s not enough to say ‘yeah we know,’ you gotta make it right.” Clergy chanted “Four more years” at the end of the press conference. Foxx is running against former Alderman Bob Fioretti, Donna More and Bill Conway. The primary is Tuesday, March 17. Early voting begins on Monday, March 2.

Chicago’s South Side Was Big Part of the Civil Rights Era BY WENDELL HUTSON Contributing Writer

The civil rights era may have begun in the south, but made its way through Chicago’s South Side by way of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., who delivered one of his first Chicago speeches at the University of Chicago (U of C). On April 13, 1956, a 27-year-old King spoke at the Rockefeller Memorial Chapel, 5850 S. Woodlawn Ave., after being invited by Chicago historian Timuel Black, who earned a master’s degree in social science two years earlier at the University of Chicago. In 2003, Black donated many of his historian papers, including the 1956 speech King gave at the U of C, to the Vivian G. Harsh Research Collection at Woodson Regional Library, 9525 S. Halsted St. “We cannot slow up, because we have a date with destiny and we must move with all deliberate speed,” King told a standing room only crowd at the chapel in 1956. In total, King visited the U of C three times between 1956 and 1966 during an era when he received the Noble Peace Prize in 1964, and then Congress passed the 1964 Civil Rights Act. The more King came to Chicago, said Black, the larger his followers became as he preached justice, peace and equality for all. “We are, in the South, moving from a negative peace, where Negroes accept a subordinate place in society, to a positive peace, where all people live in equality,”

CELEBRATING BLACK HISTORY MONTH

King said on Oct. 25, 1959 during a Sunday worship service at the chapel. King’s last U of C visit was on Jan. 27, 1966, one day after he moved his family into a West Side apartment building. The 39-year-old Baptist preacher was shot dead by a lone gunman while in Memphis, Tenn. with other civil rights leaders including the Rev. Jesse Jackson on April 4, 1968. That day changed Black America forever said Black, a 100-year-old Washington Park resident. “Things were never the same in America for blacks after King was killed,” contends Black. “This man stood up for ‘us’ and he died for us too and that is something black folks will never forget.” Black helped organize marches and protest demonstrations for King when he visited Chicago, and said he did so because he believed in his message of hope. And on Aug. 28, 1963, Black, a Chicago teacher at the time, was among the 250,000 people that stood in the mall in Washington, D.C. to hear King’s famous “I Have A Dream” speech. “I was impressed that a young, black man cared enough about us black folks to speak out against injustices even if it meant becoming a ‘target’ by whites,” recalled Black. “His courage and determination to see justice at any cost was remarkable and really inspired me to want to become apart of his movement for change in America.” But even with all the accomplishments King made in Chicago and around the world, Black pointed out Continued on page 8

4 | CITIZEN | Chatham Southeast | Week of Feb. 19, 2020

BUSINESS

Create your business and financial plans Write up your plans for a targeted, profitable business Starting a business can be exciting, but that excitement may be overshadowed by anxiety if you start this new adventure without detailed research and plans to guide you along the way. In addition to guidance, a business and financial plan can help to attract investors and open up more options for funding your idea. After you’ve determined that you have a viable business idea and your market research has given you enough insights, it’s important to apply this information to your business planning — especially as it relates to money.

There are many ways to fund your business, but you have to choose the one that works for you. “You can put in sweat equity, use credit, raise venture capital, or even solicit funds with crowdfunding,” says Dr. Dennis Kimbro, a business professor and best-selling author.

Create your business and marketing plan Using the results of your market research, you can outline: l Details for your service or product: This means a description of what it is and what the market is for it. l Branding: This is the personality

and messaging behind your business. Maybe you want the public to see your business as innovative and cutting-edge or maybe your business is more about establishing a trusting relationship with customers. l Market trends: These are the challenges facing your potential

AFTER YOU’VE DETERMINED THAT YOU HAVE A VIABLE BUSINESS IDEA AND YOUR MARKET RESEARCH HAS GIVEN YOU ENOUGH INSIGHTS, IT’S IMPORTANT TO APPLY THIS INFORMATION TO YOUR BUSINESS PLANNING — ESPECIALLY AS IT RELATES TO MONEY. industry, what’s most popular with your competition, and how you plan to address those factors. l Objectives: What is your top priority in each aspect of your business, including funding, marketing and day-to-day operations? l Strategies: How do you plan to accomplish everything? Remember to be very detailed. By incorporating the results of your market research into the overall vision of your business, you can

By incorporating the results of your market research into the overall vision of your business, you can better align your marketing efforts to drive sales and give yourself a competitive edge.

better align your marketing efforts to drive sales and give yourself a competitive edge. For instance, if your target market is everyday families with toddlers, you’ll have to create a marketing plan to reach them in places they’ll be. This could mean physically locating to where they are, like down the street from a school or park, or paying for ads on websites they use most. Another example could be dealing with your competition. If you plan to compete based on price, you’ll need to see how price cuts might impact your income. There’s no use making sales while losing money, since your business likely won’t be able to survive it. Your business plan may also be useful when you reach the stage of hiring staff. You will want to hire people that fit the personality of your business and whose values align with it. Referring to your plan can help guide you in that process. Understand the financials Next, analyze what it’ll take to start, grow, and manage your company. A great source for business finance insights is the Hands on Banking® website. Fundamentally, you should know: l Startup costs: How much you’ll need to pay to get your idea going. Free resources like the S. Small Business Administration (SBA) can help you calculate these costs. You should also consider speaking with current professionals in your industry, such as vendors, suppliers, and industry groups. l Break-even point: When your business brings in just enough money to cover expenses. If you need help figuring that out, The Balance offers a good rundown. Setting up a consultation with an accountant to help you estimate costs could also be helpful in the long run. l Projections for profitability: Predictions about future income. It’s important to be realistic with these: Forbes gives a helpful guide on how to best forecast the revenue your business will likely bring in. This

CELEBRATING BLACK HISTORY MONTH

is also where the market research you’ve done can play a big role by helping you determine market size and the demand for your business. Once you have these estimates, it will be much easier to pin down whether this is a worthy business opportunity. Evaluate your financing options There are many ways to fund your business, but you have to choose the one that works for you. “You can put in sweat equity, use credit, raise venture capital, or even solicit funds with crowdfunding,” says Dr. Dennis Kimbro, a business professor and best-selling author. “But which way is best for your business?” The SBA suggests considering both your personal and business resources to help you arrive at the right financing strategy. For instance, do you have: l Savings that you can draw from to get started? l Depending on your situation, you may think about investing your own savings. Although this may not pay for everything, doing so shows lenders how much you believe in your own idea. l Collateral to secure a business loan request? l If yes, you could be ready for a loan or line of credit from a financial institution. For this option, you’ll want to have a good relationship with your banker so they can assist you in setting it up. When starting out, all of these questions may not apply to your business just yet. However, if you approach a bank or investors, these are the questions they’ll likely ask. They’re also factors to keep in mind should your business outgrow your initial plan. As you get closer to launching, your financial and business plans may change, and that’s OK. Regardless of how they evolve, having a plan in place to guide you on this venture could make all the difference for your success. Source: Wells Fargo Bank

CITIZEN | Chatham Southeast | Week of Feb. 19, 2020

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On The Move Local High School Students Model Prom Fashions and Earn Scholarships

Photos by CREDD

The Prom Fantasy Experience featured Chicagoland Area High School Students. The Production was held at the DuSable Museum. The Necole Muhammad Scholarship was presented to Kennedy Stoudemire for academic scholarship joining her was: Rhea A. Henderson, President of RH Dreams and Jason Wilder, Director of Modeling of the Prom Fantasy Experience and Val Warner, host " Windy City Live".

HBCU'S Celebrated During Black History Month With Old School Party

The United Negro College Fund (UNCF), Chicago Inter-Alumni Council, celebrated

Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCU) with an old school party themed, "Denim & Diamonds" at the Harrah's Casino, Joliet. President-Brianna Pullium, Michelle Marion- Chairperson, and Dr. Blondean Y. Davis-Honorary Chairperson, along with an awesome committee partied with a purpose featuring comedian Jeremiah Frazier.

Happy "Fabulous Fifty" Tresa Dunbar Garrett. Cirque Du Tresa", Party Under the Big Top!

Alex-zeus

Debby Douglas Happy Birthday!

CITIZEN | Chatham Southeast | Week of Feb. 19, 2020

NEWS

How to Reduce Your Risk for Another Heart Attack Family Features - After a heart attack, as many as 1 in 4 survivors will have another one. Lifestyle changes and working closely with your doctor to manage your health can help minimize the risk of a repeat event. “A heart attack is a life-changing event,” said Nieca Goldberg, MD, American Heart Association volunteer and medical director of NYU Women’s Heart Program. “What many people don’t realize is the hidden risks that led to your first heart attack can be managed and, by doing this, you may reduce your risk of having another one.” Because up to 80% of heart attacks are preventable, it’s important to follow your doctor’s recommendations for reducing your risk. Talk to your doctor about a secondary prevention plan, and consider other steps like these from the American Heart Association’s secondary prevention program, nationally sponsored by Bayer: Take your medications as prescribed. Certain medicines can lower your risk of another cardiac event. That’s why it’s important to understand your medications and take them correctly. Taking aspirin as recommended by a doctor is one way to help prevent another attack. No one should start, stop or modify an aspirin regimen without first speaking with their doctor. Aspirin is not appropriate for everyone, so be sure to talk to your

Because up to 80% of heart attacks are preventable, it’s important to follow your doctor’s recommendations for reducing your risk. Photo courtesy of Getty Images

doctor before you begin an aspirin regimen. Manage your risk factors. After a heart attack, it’s important to manage risk factors such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol and diabetes by taking medications as prescribed, quitting smoking, eating healthier and getting active. Attend your follow-up appointments. Attending your follow-up appointments helps your doctors keep track of your condition and recovery. You can make the most of your time with your doctor by preparing a list of questions and concerns along with a list of all medications, vitamins and supplements. Bringing a trusted

friend or family member may help as well. Participate in a cardiac rehabilitation program. Cardiac rehabilitation is a medically supervised program designed to help you recover after a heart attack. You should have received a referral to cardiac rehab when you were discharged from the hospital; if you didn’t, ask your doctor if this program is right for you. Get support. It’s normal to feel scared, overwhelmed or confused after a heart attack. Getting support from loved ones or people who have also experienced a heart attack can help you cope. Connect with other heart attack survivors and caregivers through local support groups or the American Heart Association’s free online Support Network. Take Charge of Your Heart Health Heart disease is the No. 1 cause of death in the United States, but your lifestyle can be your best defense. Stop smoking. If you smoke, quit. If someone in your household smokes, encourage him or her to quit. It may not be easy, but it’s even harder to live with chronic heart disease or recover from a heart attack. Choose good nutrition. A healthy diet is one of the best weapons for fighting cardiovascular disease. Research shows eating 4-5 servings of

fruits and vegetables each day may lower blood pressure over time. Lower cholesterol. Fat lodged in your arteries can trigger a heart attack or stroke. Reduce your intake of saturated fat, trans fat and cholesterol, and get moving. If diet and physical activity alone don’t get those numbers down, then medication may be the key. Lower blood pressure. Shake that salt habit, take your medications as recommended by your doctor and get moving. An optimal blood pressure reading is less than 120/80 mmHg (millimeters of mercury). Be physically active. Research has shown that at least 150 minutes per week of moderate-intensity physical activity can help lower blood pressure and cholesterol and keep your weight at a healthy level. Reduce stress. Some studies have noted a relationship between coronary heart disease risk and stress. This may affect the risk factors for heart disease and stroke. For example, people under stress may overeat, start smoking or smoke more than they otherwise would. Learn more about ways you can thrive after a heart attack at heart.org/oneisenough. Content courtesy of the American Heart Association’s secondary prevention initiative. SOURCE: American Heart Association

If I could do one thing, I’d tell the world she counts. Communities are as rich and diverse as their needs. That’s why completing the 2020 Census matters. It’s a safe and confidential step toward having an impact on how public funds flow through our communities. That could mean more resources in your area for special needs. It’s within your control.

Learn more at:

2020CENSUS.GOV Paid for by U.S. Census Bureau.

2019_Census_Braile_Newspaper_HalfPage_SizeA_9_75x6.indd 1

CELEBRATING BLACK HISTORY MONTH

1/15/20 4:11 PM

8 | CITIZEN | Chatham Southeast | Week of Feb. 19, 2020

NEWS

New Documentary About Ben Wilson Highlights Forgiveness and Healing From Family Continued from page 1 BY WENDELL HUTSON Contributing Writer

An upcoming TV documentary about slain Simeon Career Academy High School basketball star Benjamin “Ben” Wilson will show not only Wilson’s life leading up to his murder, but also his family’s pain and suffering before their healing process began. In 1984, Wilson was ranked as the top high school basketball player in the country and was recruited by almost every major university before he was shot dead outside Simeon on Nov. 21 while on his lunch break. A Feb. 13 screening of the 75-minute documentary “Both Sides of the Gun: A Story of Reconciliation” was held at Malcolm X College, 1900 W. Jackson Blvd., and attended by William “Billy” Moore, the person convicted of murdering Ben Wilson. Two of Wilson’s brothers, Jeffrey and Anthony Wilson, also attended the screening. After the screening, Moore, along with both brothers, participated in a panel discussion with more than 300 elementary and high school students. Former U.S. Secretary of Education Arne Duncan and Chicago native, singer and actor Lonnie “Common” Lynn, moderated the discussion. At age 16, Moore was convicted of attempted armed robbery and first-degree murder of Wilson

(from left) Anthony and Jeffrey Wilson, brothers of slain Simeon Career Academy High School basketball star Benjamin Wilson, discussed why they have finally forgiven the man who murdered their brother 36 years ago. The discussion took place on Feb. 13, 2020 during a screening for an upcoming TV documentary about their late brother, Ben Wilson. Photo credit: Wendell Hutson

and sentenced to 20 years in prison. But now, after meeting with Wilson’s brothers, Moore said he has finally been forgiven for a mistake he made without thinking clearly. “You can never walk away from something like this no matter how much time you serve in prison. At the end of the day, you will still be judged by society and by God for your actions and you

must face whatever consequences come with it,” Moore told the Citizen. “I know what I did was wrong and I am sorry for taking this young man’s life. It has caused pain for his family and for me because what I did was wrong and I now crave for forgiveness from the community.” But the one question Moore, 52, said no one ever asked him until he met the Wilson family four years ago was his motive for shooting Wilson. “I shot Ben because I felt threatened by him because he was so tall. We’re talking about a guy who stood 6’7 and looked like a giant to me when I was only 5’6 and 135 pounds,” explained Moore, who was released from prison in 2004. Jeffrey Wilson said he struggled with forgiving Moore for years and for many years after the shooting, he wanted to kill Moore. Had he run into Moore on the street, he said he would have shot Moore “dead on the spot.” He added up until now, he carried a bullet taken out of his brother’s body and he had planned on using it to shoot and kill Moore who took away his big brother, Ben. “That time has passed though and I have forgiven him largely because of my mother, who asked me and my brothers to forgive Mr. Moore, on her death bed,” Jeffrey Wilson stated. For Anthony Wilson, 42, he said his late mother, who was a registered nurse, asked him to forgive Moore. “ I remember asking my mom ‘why would you

ask me this at this time? Of all the things we could be talking about, you want to talk about this?’” recalled Anthony Wilson. “That just blew my mind but that was my momma. Always being a peace keeper and helping people at all times.” After Anthony and Jeffrey Wilson met Moore, they got to know him personally and Anthony Wilson said it was a sigh of relief to finally release the anger he carried inside for so long. “We spoke a lot after that first meeting and I am glad I met him. Meeting him and forgiving him was one of the best decisions I made in my life,” added Anthony Wilson. “All wounds will heal in time and it is time for my wounds and the hurt my family has felt for years to end. I now realize that everyone makes bad decisions and everyone deserves a second chance and for Billy, this is his second chance in life.” The documentary was in the works for nearly five years and is expected to air on TV sometime this year, according to Charles Johnson, executive producer of the documentary. “It [the documentary] took so long to complete because that’s how long it took for me to get the family and Mr. Moore together to finally meet,” said Johnson. “Now that the family has met him, talked with him and forgave him, it’s time to show the world what healing and forgiveness looks like through the eyes of this family that was injured by the loss of their loved one Ben Wilson.”

BLACK HISTORY

Chicago’s South Side Was Big Part of the Civil Rights Era Continued from page 3 some lingering issues that remain a challenge today like housing. “Housing segregation still exists in Chicago. More unity is needed in the black community,” said Black. “Nowadays there’s a unique class-separation, but back when I was growing up, there was no class-separation among blacks. We all looked alike and we all lived in the same neighborhoods.” He added that during his generation, black kids lived at home with both parents, but now black kids are growing up in households with no male role models. “There were mostly two-parent households back then, but today that is less than 35 percent,” contends Black. “The community has disconnected itself from helping families and now we have a bunch of single mothers raising children with no help from the community.” A contributing reason why so many black youth are involved in crimes like murder and selling illegal drugs is because young people do not plan for the future, explained Black. “The reason you see so many

(from left) Edward Gardner, who led about 200 protestors outside a Menards store in 2013, greets Juan Horton, a store manager at Menards. Photo credit: Wendell Hutson

young people shooting each other is because they do not believe there is a future for them and they just don’t care about their actions,” added Black. “That’s why you don’t see more young people voting and getting involved with their community.” Fast forwarding to more than 40 years after King was murdered, the fight for equality in Chicago continues. Only these days, it’s by

more modern civil rights leaders like entrepreneur Edward Garner, who founded the former Soft Sheen Products Co. in 1964 with his wife in the basement of his South Side home. These days, Gardner, 95, spends much of his time with family but remains passionate about blacks getting what he described as “their fair share of the pie.” In 2012, he went on a citywide crusade shutting down

construction sites (especially those in black neighborhoods) whose workers did not include any blacks. One year later in 2013, Gardner led about 200 protesters who marched outside Menards, 9100 S. Western Ave., in Evergreen Park because he said there were no black construction workers used to build the store. While today’s civil rights leaders in Chicago have done remarkable work, Dr. King would be both proud and disappointed that more has not been done since his death, said former U.S. Rep. Jesse Jackson Jr., who was the keynote speaker at a Jan. 20 Dr. King event in Harvey. “I never met Dr. King obviously because I was just a little boy during his era but I have studied his work and have always tried to do my part as a civil rights believer and supporter,” Jackson Jr. told the Citizen. “Dr. King would be proud of the efforts we as a nation have made when it comes to equality for all. But I think he would also be disappointed with the limited accomplishments this country has made since giving up his life for us.” So much has changed in Chicago for blacks thanks to King’s efforts,

CELEBRATING BLACK HISTORY MONTH

contends Jackson Jr. Housing segregation has been outlawed so blacks can live anywhere they desire, although there still remains an unwritten boundary when it comes to ‘well-to-do’ areas. Hyde Park has a population of 24,100 and 52 percent are white while 28 percent are black and historically, it has been a majority white neighborhood, according to census data. But more black families now reside in the South Side neighborhood, such as President Barack Obama and the Nation of Islam’s Minister Louis Farrakhan. And blacks can now attend public schools with whites even though it was once illegal to do so. Wendell Phillips High School is in Bronzeville and was built in 1904 as the first public high school in Chicago whose students were predominately black even though Phillips himself was a white abolitionist and attorney. “See what I mean when I say while we have come a long way and achieved many things we still have much work that needs to be done before we can truly be proud of ourselves as a nation,” said Jackson Jr.

CITIZEN | Chatham Southeast | Week of Feb. 19, 2020

10 | CITIZEN | Chatham Southeast | Week of Feb. 19, 2020

CITIZEN | Chatham Southeast | Week of Feb. 19, 2020

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WELLNESS A Doctor’s Common-Sense Approach to Heartburn Relief (StatePoint) Indigestion is on the rise worldwide and is especially prevalent in the U.S. According to the American College of Gastroenterology, 60 million Americans suffer from heartburn at least once a month. While it’s a common issue for older people due to aging, it’s now a growing problem for younger adults as well, who report increasing bouts of indigestion, upset stomach, and anxious stomach, which may be linked to stress and hectic lifestyles “When the acid in your stomach rises into your esophagus, that’s when you know you have heartburn,” says Dr. Ken Redcross, a board-certified physician in internal medicine and author of “Bond: The 4 Cornerstones of a Lasting and Caring Relationship with Your Doctor.” He explains that heartburn is more than just a minor discomfort, and it can impact daily life. “Heartburn can cause chest pain, difficulty swallowing, and even interfere with sleep. While there are many contributing factors, whatever the cause, it’s uncomfortable and important to manage.” Suffering from indigestion and heartburn? Dr. Redcross recommends a few simple measures that may help you find relief. • When embarking on a new diet to improve health and wellness, the last thing you may expect to suffer from are digestive issues. But a

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sudden change to one’s diet is frequently the source of heartburn. Keto diets in particular can trigger heartburn as the diet requires upping the intake of fat, which takes longer to leave the stomach. If you are starting a new diet, it can be helpful to change your diet more gradually. • Indigestion from travel is common, as being away from home often means eating unfamiliar foods and keeping odd hours. When on the go, (or all the time) stick mostly with tried-and-true foods you know that sit well, attempt to keep a regular eating schedule, and wear loose, comfortable clothing. • Eating too fast or too much can also contribute to indigestion. Slow down and savor your food. Also, consider consuming smaller portions at a time. • Try to incorporate some movement into your daily routine, particularly after meals, as lying down directly after eating can be a source of indigestion. Exercise can also help you maintain a healthy weight, which is another important factor in managing indigestion. • Know your triggers. For some, certain foods like citrus, spices, fatty food, and alcoholic or caffeinated beverages can trigger symptoms. Knowing your specific triggers can help you avoid them. • Be prepared to address symptoms when they strike. Indigestion sufferers with a bloated or upset stomach can find plant-based relief with travelfriendly Boiron Acidil tablets that melt in your mouth without water. Easy to take before or after a meal, they work with the body to target occasional heartburn, acid indigestion, bloating, or upset stomach. This homeopathic medicine can help get your body back into balance naturally. Claims for Acidil are based on traditional homeopathic practice, not accepted medical evidence. They are not FDA evaluated. More information about Acidil and other homeopathic medicines for gastrointestinal relief can be found by visiting BoironUSA.com/digestives. For a happy, healthy belly, learn your indigestion triggers and be prepared to manage symptoms. __________________________________

Darrell Garth

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Janice Garth

Sales Manager General Manager

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12 | CITIZEN | Chatham Southeast | Week of Feb. 19, 2020

“It’s About You, It’s About Me, It’s Actually All About Us… We should celebrate our history

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