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Week of February 1, 2017 Vol 48 • No 6 • www.thechicagocitizen.com

BUSINESS

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FOCUSON BLACKHISTORY

CIVIL RIGHTS ATTORNEY CHARLES F. COLEMAN JR. NAMED HARVEST MALE “SWAG MAN OF THE YEAR” + P6

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AFRICAN AMERICAN HISTORY MONTH PROGRAMS COMING TO SOUTH SUBURBAN COLLEGE + P12

BLACK CREATIVITY EXHIBIT RETURNS TO THE MUSEUM OF SCIENCE & INDUSTRY By Monique Smith

The achievements of many African Americans often go unnoticed or recognized by the mainstream. One key component and benefit of the celebration of Black History Month is that corporations, educational, art and cultural institutions highlight the contributions of Blacks in America.

The 2017 Black Creativity Exhibit and Program is an annual tradition that is in full swing at the Museum of Science and Industry (MSI), 5700 S. Lake Shore Drive in Chicago. The program always kicks off in January on the Martin Luther King, Jr. holiday with a free Family Day program where all Illinois residents are invited to visit the museum for free. > SEE MORE PAGE 3

HIDDEN FIGURES HIGHLIGHTS STELLAR ACHIEVEMENTS OF BLACK WOMEN By Safiyyah P. Muhammad

Since Hidden Figures hit the box office last December, there is a buzz of excitement in the air from audiences everywhere who’ve flocked to theaters to see the true story of three highly intelligent black women who helped launch John Glenn into orbit. As African Americans celebrate Black History Month, it’s a story fit for people of all ages and races, and is a movie that successfully documents the achievements of

black women in the STEM fields. Although a well-kept secret at NASA until now, the story highlights the outstanding achievements black women made in NASA’s space program at the height of the Civil Rights era. The film is about three women employed at NASA, assigned to perform complex mathematics by hand, thus earning the name “human computers.” Katherine Johnson (Taraji Henson), Dorothy Vaughn (Octavia Spencer) and

Mary Jackson, (Janelle Monae) were NASA’s human computers. Their gifted and talented mathematical skills as math geniuses and coders afforded them the ability to calculate by hand, mathematical calculations that dealt with lift-off, propulsion, and trajectories. Reports suggest that dozens of women served as computers during NASA’S space program. > SEE MORE PAGE 2

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black history month 1

Hidden Figures highlights stellar achievements of Black women Continued from page 1

“It is a film for everyone regardless of age, gender or race, and effectively illustrates the power of the human mind and spirit,” said Fox domestic distribution president Chris Aronson, in a 20th Century Fox press release. “In these challenging times, its life-affirming message comes along at a perfect time.” The movie depicts how the women handled racism and segregation. In real life, however, due to segregation laws, reports states that African-American female computers at NASA had to work in a separate “colored” building at the Langley Research Center where NASA’s space program was housed. There is a scene where Henson has to walk to a segregated bathroom, which takes her 40 minutes to get across NASA’s huge campus. When she returns, Henson’s boss, Al Harrison, played by Kevin Costner asks her, where did she go? Henson responds by explaining with dignity where she had gone and how she has to keep dealing with racism and bigotry. Kevin Costner said in a 20th Century Fox interview seen on YouTube, “Color

went away when John Glenn would ask engineers to go and get the smart one” (speaking of Katherine Johnson).” The film also showed that if you desire to make a change, you have to be the change maker. Sometimes standing up might means standing alone, and that’s what Mary Jackson did when she wanted to enroll in NASA’s engineering program. In the film, Jackson petitioned her attendance at the school by taking it to court. The program was in an all-white school, which meant that Blacks were barred from classes. After Jackson stands up for herself in court, the judge eventually rules in her favor. Hidden Figures is a feel good movie that inspires everyone. The movie is directed by Theodore Melfi and Allison Schroder and is based on the book, Hidden Figures by Margot Lee Shetterly. Other Hidden Figures actors include Kirsten Dunst and Jim Parson. According to Box Office Mojo, since its debut, the film has grossed more than $61 million dollars so far.

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Katherine Coleman Goble Johnson is an American physicist and mathematician who made contributions to the United States’ aeronautics and space programs with the early application of digital electronic computers at NASA. Known for accuracy in computerized celestial navigation, she conducted technical work at NASA that spanned decades. During this time, she calculated the trajectories, launch windows, and emergency back-up return paths for many flights from Project Mercury, including the early NASA missions of John Glenn and Alan Shepard, and the 1969 Apollo 11 flight to the Moon, through the Space Shuttle program. Her calculations were critical to the success of these missions. Johnson also did calculations for plans for a mission to Mars. She is played by actress Taraji Henson in Hidden Figures.

Dorothy Vaughn, played by actress Octavia Spencer in the movie Hidden Figures. Vaughn worked as a computer programmer for NASA’s space program. Today, Programmers are known as coders.

Mary Jackson worked to influence both the hiring and promotion of women in NASA’s science, engineering, and mathematics careers.Mary Jackson is NASA’s first Black female engineer. Jackson is seen here in the photo adjusting buttons on an instrument at NASA.

Walgreens Expression Challenge honors area students Patricia Frazier, a student who attends Gwendolyn Brooks College Prep won in the Walgreens honored seven Media Arts category. She said, “A challenge Chicago area students for their like this is important for students like talents in creative writing, visual me because Chicago is overflowing with arts, and multimedia. According to youth talent, however, there aren’t many Vanessa Abron, Walgreens Expression opportunities for us to get noticed for that Challenge spokesperson, this gave talent, let alone be awarded in some way. I them the opportunity to offer their have suffered from low self-esteem, and I opinions of what today’s teens face. have insecurities as does everyone else, one The 2016 Walgreens Expressions of them being that I am not a good enough Challenge was recently held at the artist to make anything that anyone would Museum of Contemporary Art. want to watch. However, I took a chance in “The Walgreens Expressions this competition by entering my film and to Challenge is a peer-to-peer my surprise, people loved it. It just shows program where teens residing in me that a little self-confidence can go a long the Chicagoland and St. Louis way.” Walgreens Expressions Challenge initiative recently announced seven area Chicago honorees for their talents in creative writing, visual arts, and multimedia. The first place winners received area can enter in a contest where Abrons pointed out that the keynote 2,000 and the second place winners took home $1,250. The event was held at the Museum of they can express their talents. The speaker for the event was Andrew Daniels aka Contemporary Art. Front row from left: Patricia Frazier, Natalie Ayala, Ketandu Chiedu, Javier three categories are creative writing, “Add 2”, a local rapper and songwriter. “Add Gutierrez, Gabrielle Barrett, Jessica Foster, and Kyle Reese. Standing in the foreground are multimedia, and the visual arts,” Abron several Walgreens executives. Photo Credit: Double D Productions 2 is an emcee, but he has also established a said. program called the Haven. The Haven is an According to a Walgreen’s press afterschool mentorship program that has a Fly,” is a student at Percy L. Julian High School and release, at the conclusion of the event, the first place music studio inside of a local church. The Haven is a one of the Walgreens Expression honorees. She said winners received $2,000 and the second place honorees she entered the competition to help bring her personal place where teens can write and enhance their talents. took home $1,250. The recipients noted that they It is a place where they can feel safe overall.” struggles to the forefront. “I know that issues like would use their prize money to help pay for college Abrons also stated that the Walgreens suicide and depression are swept under the rug a lot. tuition and expenses to the prom. Expressions Challenge helps students to see the So this challenge was a perfect way to bring my issue to The competition is open to all Chicago-area greatness within themselves. “The program light. This opportunity helps students to release all of students regardless of whether students attend public or their bottled up feelings. Keeping our emotions inside allows them to share issues and events that have private schools and if they live in the two target markets is beyond dangerous, so this challenge can and will happened in their lives. Students can use this which are Chicago and St. Louis. program as a platform to share what’s going on in help many students to open up to others that very well Jessica Foster, who wrote a poem called “I Can their world.” understand whatever it is they feel.” By Safiyyah P. Muhammad

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FOCUSON BLACKHISTORY

Black Creativity Exhibit returns to the Museum of Science & Industry

Continued from page 1

The program is comprised of the annual Juried Art Exhibition and the Innovation Studio experience and it invites students, teachers, families and the public to experience and soak in the legacy of the lofty contributions and achievements made by African Americans. For the sixth year, the youth component of the program offers opportunities for high school students to have their work shown in the exhibition. The collection includes pieces from students at Kenwood Academy and King College Prep High School. The youth portion of the exhibit is an an impressive collection of mixed media art pieces, some of which have social and political tones to the pieces, all of which are for sale. LaTonya Foster, Director of Operations, External Affairs at MSC said, “It really is a celebration of art and cultural perspectives that pay tribute to the past, present and future of art and innovation in the African American Community.” The Black Creativity Juried Art Exhibit actually began in 1970 making it the longest running exhibition of African American Art displayed at the Museum. It opened on January 16, 2017 and features more than 100 dynamic works – including paintings, sculpture and mixedmedia – from African-American artists across the country, chosen by a panel of five jurors.

From the exhibition, the panel selects first, second and third place overall show winners, as well as a winner in each medium category and overall in the youth category. The winners are recognized at a Juried Art Reception, held on Wednesday, February 15 from 6-8:30 p.m. The Innovation Studio, which provides a creative space to inspire young inventors about future possibilities and opportunities in STEM, is another element of Black Creativity. Powered by guests’ own curiosity and inspired by science-related challenges, guests have access to a variety of materials and tools to create and prototype their solutions to issues in space travel, sleep and more. A gallery highlighting past and current African American innovators serves as inspiration. The space will be open to the general public now through March 4. Facilitated session times are offered at various times throughout the day. School and community groups may contact MSI’s Group Center at 773-684-1414 to reserve a workshop. The Innovation Studio is included in Museum Entry. At MSI, a Career Showcase will be offered on February 25, 2017, offering guests the chance to explore innovative careers in science and art. Professionals in art, science and engineering will be stationed throughout the Museum for hands-on activities and one-on-one discussions. School groups can reserve 30-minute sessions with a scientist or engineer in the Jr. Science Cafés during Black

Creativity. Each session is an opportunity for students to interact with professionals and learn about cutting-edge research from experts. To book a school group session, call (773) 684-1414. Historically, the fields of science, technology, engineering and mathematics have been dominated by white males, which is why Black Creativity at MSI is important. Today, considerable effort is being made to create a more diverse STEM workforce. The Department of Labor expects computer science hiring to increase by 24 percent over the next seven years. Engineering and math are fields in high demand and former President Barack Obama said one way to improve the economy is to train and hire more engineers. Although Blacks are 12 percent of the U.S. population, in 2009 they received just 7 percent of all STEM bachelor’s degrees, 4 percent of master’s degrees and 2 percent of PhDs, according to the National Center for Education Statistics. Black Creativity 2017 is presented by Allstate. Black Creativity partners are Adobe CDW, ComEd, Dover Inc., ITW, Lexus, Nicor Gas, and Peoples Gas. United Airlines is the official airline of Black Creativity. Media sponsors are Comcast and NBC 5 Chicago. The program runs until March 4, 2017 at MSI. Visit the Museum’s website at msichicago.org/blackcreativity for a full list of events.

FBI Chicago Division develops FBI student Explorers By Christopher Shuttlesworth

and write an essay on why they want to participate in the program. Once admission The FBI Chicago Division created its Explorer counselors review each student’s application, Post program five years ago to help teach select applicants are contacted to arrange Chicago teens about the fundamentals and an in-person interview. After the interview, skills of FBI Agents and staff workers. The FBI admissions counselors review the students’ Chicago Division’s Edwin C. Shanahan Explorer entire application package and finalize candidate Post #1920 was established in 2012 in honor of selections. Special Agent Edwin C. Shanahan. Special Agent “The [students] have to show interest in Shanahan joined the FBI in Chicago in 1920 and the [Explorer Postprogram] and go the extra was the first Chicago agent killed in the line of mile,” Lombardo said. “We don’t choose the duty in 1925. The Explorer Post #1920’s mission is kids with the highest G.P.A.’s or with the most to instill basic tenets of civic responsibility, foster extracurricular activities. We’re totally against an interest in and respect for law enforcement, that. We will take a well-rounded B, C student and develop responsible and intelligent youth in who can’t afford to play in high school athletics Chicago communities, according to the FBI. because they may be working part time or “We consider this an opportunity to engage helping out a handicapped family member at with the community and make sure the [FBI home.” The 33 FBI student Explorers continue their two-hour training session, which started in student Explorers] know who we are and what FBI Special Agent Billy Shaw said the September of 2016 at the FBI Chicago office, located on 2111 W. Roosevelt Road, and will end we’re really like opposed to what they see [and interview process still can be very competitive hear] on the news,” said FBI Supervisorial Special in April of 2017 with a graduation ceremony at the FBI range in North Chicago. Photo Credit: but the FBI admission counselors make sure they Christopher Shuttlesworth FBI Chicago Division develops FBI student Explorers Agent Vick Lombardo. pick students who can benefit from the program. Approximately 33 FBI student Explorers “Some of these students are very shy, so we are divided into three squads led by Special help bring them out of their shell and teach “I’m a part of [UIC College Prep] JROTC Program,” Bences Agents and Professional Staff who are mentors. Explorers are them about different FBI skills such as building rapport and said. “So [coming back] to the program and being able to introduced to a different stage of the investigation process, communicating [skills] because we go out and talk to people,” further grow my own leadership gives me more experience on including areas such as interviews, surveillance, hostage Shaw said. “It’s not just about using a gun and badge because those what I need to do better as a leader, identifies my weaknesses, negotiation, and takedowns. Sessions include special speakers, are just tools. It’s about our words and how we connect with the strengths and [most importantly] helps me to create more training, and dynamic hands-on exercises to promote teamwork [people] in the communities.” leaders because that’s the [Explorer Post program’s] main and help the students think outside of the box. Explorer sessions Students can apply online at https://fbichicagoexplorers.com/ purpose.” are held every other Thursday from September through April application/, download the PDF version of the application form According to the FBI, in order for Chicago students to apply, from 4:30-6:30 p.m. at the FBI Chicago Office, located on 2111 W. and send it to info@fbichicagoexplorers.com. The application they must be in high school between 14-20 years of age, must Roosevelt Rd., according to the FBI. deadline for the 2017-2018 Explorer class ends March 15, 2017. The not have a prior arrest record or serious traffic violation, must Casantra Bences, a UIC College Prep junior, said she decided Explorer Post 12-session program will conclude with a graduation have at least a 2.5 GPA upon acceptance and maintain a 2.5 to come back to the Explorer Post program for a second year as ceremony at the FBI range in North Chicago. Students and their GPA during the program. During the process, students report a student volunteer leader because she believes the program will guests have an opportunity to participate in a firearms safety and academic grades, extra-curricular activities, community service, help her long-term leadership skills. familiarization session, according to the FBI. part-time work in the application, a teacher recommendation

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business

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ComEd Black History Month Campaign Helps Teens Explore ‘Unexpected’ STEM Careers

Solar Spotlight’ Education Program Introduces High School Students to STEM via The Arts

Business partnership gives access to culturally relevant books African Ancestry, Inc. recently announced its partnership with MahoganyBooks, an awardwinning online bookstore that specializes in books written for, by, or about people of the African Diaspora. The partnership underscores the power of Black businesses with aligned missions uniting to deliver products and services that educate, uplift and empower Black communities across the world. Central to the alliance is AfricanAncestry. com/Partners/Mahogany-Books where consumers from both companies will have expanded resources from everything such as their African countries origin to educating Black kids in America about their culture and heritage. The AfricanAncestry.com Get Rooted Book List will debut to provide select titles that help people better understand who they are in the context of Africa, culture and consciousness. “When this partnership was proposed, I knew instantly that this is something that

African Ancestry should and would do,” said Gina Paige, co-founder and president of AfricanAncestry.com. “We both share a collective responsibility to educate and uplift Black people, and this alliance extends and strengthens the impact of that commitment.” Created by husband and wife duo, MahoganyBooks uses literature to enlighten and inform by promoting reading, writing and cultural awareness. “Our relationship with AfricanAncestry.com is social entrepreneurship at its best,” said Derrick A. Young, co-founder and president of MahoganyBooks. “We’re two small businesses that have joined forces to address issues around identity and cultural awareness for people of color and to improve our communities.” Consumers can visit AfricanAncestry.com/ Partners/Mahogany-Books to learn more about the partnership and begin experiencing the benefits.

Gina Paige, co-founder and president of AfricanAncestry.com.

Changing business dynamics through diversity economy and how the New Majority Recently, more than 50 must work together; including Bernard speakers of diverse cultural J. Tyson, CEO of Kaiser Permanente; backgrounds, representing Dr. Mehmood Khan, PepsiCo’s Vice four dozen major Chairman and Chief Scientific and corporations, prominent co-sponsor; Solomon D. (“Sol”) Trujillo, business and community Chairman of Trujillo Group, LLC organizations and leading and; Pamela G. Carlton, President of universities and over 300 Springboard-Partners in Cross Cultural conference participants Leadership. attended the second annual In addition, powerhouse companies Asian American Business such as Cisco Systems, JP Morgan Roundtable (AABR) “The Chase, Morgan Stanley, and Univision, New Majority: Igniting the all, made their mark at the Summit. Future through Inclusion About the Asian American Business and Partnerships,” held at Development Center/ AABR the Venetian, Las Vegas. The Asian American Business The coming together of Development Center was established in a multicultural community New York City in 1994 by John Wang, comprised of African to promote greater recognition of Asian Americans, Latinos, Native American businesses’ contributions Americans and Asians to to the general economy. AABDC form a “New Majority” in encourages Asian American businesses America means changes, to be more actively involved in issues challenges and new Conference participants attend the second annual Asian American Business Roundtable (AABR) entitled, “The and policies that directly affect them collaboration strategies for New Majority: Igniting the Future through Inclusion and Partnerships,” held at the Venetian in Las Vegas. at the federal, state and city levels and businesses and organizations provides capacity-building assistance that seek to thrive in the the ethnic communities in the USA continue to grow to business entities that enable them to compete in coming decades. into a demographic majority of the United States. the mainstream marketplace and expand business The AABR Summit’s mission is to harness the Many of the keynote speakers delivered profound opportunities. strengths and encourage the strategic partnership as and authentic messages about their companies and the

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Chicago - For the fourth year, ComEd’s annual Black History Month campaign provides stimulating seminars to expose African American high school students to non-traditional and ‘unexpected’ STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math) careers. For 2017, ‘Solar Spotlight’ will explore STEM via The Arts as students learn about solar energy, African-American trailblazers, and the earliest forms of STEM via African history. The program will culminate with a 7-foot solar-powered art installation, designed with help from the students, which will be on permanent display in the Bronzeville neighborhood. ComEd enlisted the support of community partners, youth organizations and schools in Chicago and Rockford to select nearly 60 students to participate in the ‘Solar Spotlight’ seminars on Saturday, February 11, at the ComEd Training Center in Chicago. ComEd engineers will be on hand to serve as mentors and students also will have an opportunity to tour the facility and learn about careers in energy. Gallery Guichard, Bronzeville’s premier gallery of art, has signed on as a partner to construct the installation. ComEd will unveil the solar art at a special ceremony for the students, their family, friends and the community in early Spring 2017. “ComEd is proud to celebrate Black History Month The seminar by engaging with local high curriculum school students to explore STEM through the emerging introduces of science and art”, said renewable energy worlds Anne Pramaggiore, President concepts, features and CEO of ComEd. “As an innovation and technology the multiple uses company, we are committed of solar energy while to offering youth-based STEM also providing students programs throughout the year to empower the workforce with the opportunity of the future. All of these to work directly with programs include aspects to experts in solar and STEM nurture diversity and promote community involvement.” fields, including ComEd The ‘Solar Spotlight’ mentors. There will be a campaign also will highlight presentation about the activities and student participation in a series of earliest dated pyramid, billboard, print, and digital the 200 feet high step advertisements throughout the pyramid designed by the month of February. ComEd will royal architect Imhotep, to award each participating student a plaque highlighting the illustrate engineering and with completion of the education astronomical significance seminars and a financial scholarship. and prep students for an The seminar curriculum hands-on activity to design introduces renewable energy hieroglyphic panels for the concepts, features the multiple uses of solar energy while also pyramid art installation. providing students with the opportunity to work directly with experts in solar and STEM fields, including ComEd mentors. There will be a presentation about the earliest dated pyramid, the 200 feet high step pyramid designed by the royal architect Imhotep, to illustrate engineering and astronomical significance and prep students for an hands-on activity to design hieroglyphic panels for the pyramid art installation. Members of Exelon African American Resource Alliance (EAARA), who are also ComEd employees, will serve as student mentors for both education seminars. A member of EAARA will present a Black History themed profile about the women featured in the #1 movie “ Hidden Figures’ to highlight African Americans who have excelled in the STEM industry. ComEd invites the general public to visit ComEd.com/ SolarSpotlight to learn more about ‘Solar Spotlight’ and watch the 2016 student video. The public may also track the students’ ‘Solar Spotlight’ journey on social media by searching #comedsolarspotlight and #bhm2017.

BRIGHT MINDS

BRIGHTER FUTURES ComEd is celebrating Black History Month by giving our future history makers an opportunity to shine with the Solar Spotlight program. Solar Spotlight brings African American high school students and ComEd mentors together for an exciting and educational experience. In addition to learning about Science, Technology, Engineering and Math, this year’s program will also incorporate the arts in a new and unexpected way. With the Solar Spotlight program, these bright young minds are shedding a new light on honoring history, building our future and how working together helps us all shine.

FIND OUT MORE AT ComEd.com/SolarSpotlight

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fashion

JANET UTHMAN WORKS TO EXPAND COMCAST’S DIVERSITY EFFORTS

Civil Rights Attorney Charles F. Coleman Jr. Named Harvest Male

“SWAG Man of The Year”

Charles F. Coleman, Jr .

NEW YORK - Charles F. Coleman, Jr. will once again “lead by example” in a most stylish fashion as the first recipient of the Harvest Male 2017 SWAG Man of the Year Award, a recognition that celebrates a community advocate whose style is set apart from the ordinary. This honor calls attention to a distinguished man who brings purpose and presence to the forefront. With regular appearances providing legal commentary and analysis on major media outlets including CNN and MSNBC, Huffington Post Live, Fox 5 News (NY) and many other television, radio and web outlets, Attorney Charles F. Coleman Jr. has become a powerful voice for social change, all the while being a style trendsetter. The former Brooklyn, NY prosecutor has become an avid civil litigator with an extensive portfolio in community mobilization and empowerment. In addition to his impressive career, Coleman maintains an eclectic style and culturally fluid sophistication that allows him to work effectively in the courtroom, on camera and in the neighborhood. Charles F. Coleman Jr. epitomizes what we were looking for in the selection of our SWAG Man,” noted Andrea L. Henderson, Managing Principal of the Harvest Male brand. “The Harvest Male SWAG Man is Stylish, Wise And Generous and Charles represents each component in his appearance and manner all while being committed to making positive social change.” The Harvest Male brand, that was inspired by three generations of men who work tirelessly to be their best selves, both in terms of style &

substance; offers a small but growing product line that currently includes bow ties, neckties, pocket squares & socks. “The selection committee felt that Charles’ body of work serves as a kind of homage to those men who inspired the brand and to all men who feel that it is equally as important to look good as it is to do good,” added Henderson. The trendsetting Coleman has broadened

his empowerment scope to call attention to a missing link in the “Black Lives Matter” platform – providing a safe harbor for dialogue for Black Males who are doing positive and productive things in their communities, but whose voices are lost in the discussions in the world around them. After years of introspection, outreach and development, Coleman recently launched Black Brilliance 360, which is a webseries consisting of original and in-depth conversations involving a diverse group of Black men who explore the concept of “Black Brilliance 360” through the male lens. “Black Brilliance 360 represents a conversation that crosses generations and geographies and encompasses Black men because our “swag” is constantly imitated and too often, only negatively represented in the media,” stated Coleman. “This is not to diminish anyone else’s shine, but it is designed to re-emphasize the brilliance in our own that is evidenced in the historic contributions that Black men have made and continue to make to the society as a whole that is too often undocumented.” Style and fashion are important components for Coleman and the Black Brilliance 360 model and matched by his excitement regarding this recognition. “I am so honored to receive this award and welcome the opportunity to align with Harvest Male in the development of my SWAG Box. This will further the example of Black Brilliance 360 through attire that also empowers; because how you look plays a vital role in how you are viewed in the community.”

www.thechicagocitizen.com • 51 years of serving the Black community

of diversity and inclusion in all aspects of our business,” said Uthman. “Together, we have continued to build on our initiatives to ensure all 22,000 of our employees across the division have an equal opportunity to succeed at Comcast and reflect the diverse communities in which we live and serve.” The company’s Beltway Region Black Employee Network has also proven successful. The Beltway Region, which includes the Washington,

meet with customers at various local events, recognizing that not all customer segments can be addressed with one general In 2016, Janet Uthman was named to Ebony marketing message. magazine’s Power 100, a distinction handed out to such “We continuously look to create culturally relevant notable African-American achievers as the Obamas, Lonnie marketing ads, as well as expand our programming content Bunch, Melissa Harris-Perry and John Legend. to appeal to African-American and multicultural audiences,” Other publications have featured her as a “mover and Uthman said. “We recently added the Impact Network, shaker” and now Uthman, a former corporate marketing ASPiRE and REVOLT to our channel lineup, as well as director at BET, has transitioned smoothly into a new role at distributed an RFP to add two additional African-American Comcast, as the division vice president of Inclusion and majority owned networks by January 2019.” Multicultural Marketing. Uthman continued: “We have also enhanced our “As the head of Inclusion and Multicultural products and services to make it easier for our viewers Marketing for Comcast’s Northeast Division, I am to find African American programming, including responsible for overseeing the planning and execution adding Black TV & Film, MLK Day and Black History of diversity and inclusion efforts, as well as multicultural Month folders to Xfinity On Demand.” marketing strategies across the division,” said Uthman, In 2016, Comcast’s Beltway Region supported the who joined Comcast in 2008, as region director of Lake Arbor Jazz Festival in Prince George’s County, the product management. Washington Informer Spelling Bee, Howard University Uthman’s division is spread across 14 states Charter Day, Radio One Prayer Breakfast; the company including Maine, Vermont, New Hampshire, also held a special viewing party for the NAACP Image Pennsylvania, Maryland, Virginia, Delaware, Awards in partnership with TV One. Connecticut, Massachusetts and the District of Comcast has also supported the African-American Columbia. Festival in Baltimore and the Capital Jazz Festival in She holds a master’s degree in business Columbia, Md. administration in marketing from the University of “We value our partnership with Washington, D.C. Uthman, the division vice president of Inclusion and Multicultural California, Los Angeles Anderson School of Management Janet leaders and organizations to close the digital divide,” Marketing at Comcast, says that the cable giant continues to create content and a bachelor’s degree in accounting and finance from said Uthman. “We offer the nation’s largest and most to appeal to African-American and multicultural audiences. (Comcast) University of California, Berkeley and previously served comprehensive broadband adoption program, Internet as region sales director for the Disney Channel Essentials, which provides low-cost broadband service Prior to taking over her current role in October D.C. area, kicked off the Black Employee Network Employee for $9.95 a month, digital literacy training and discounted 2015, Uthman worked as vice president of Marketing Resource Group (ERG) last March to champion growth, computers for low-income families.” and Sales at Comcast, where she gained a reputation for development and opportunity for individuals of color, Uthman shared that Comcast announced last summer crafting competitive strategy and successfully building top Uthman said. that the program’s eligibility standards would expand to performing sales teams, while delivering best in class results. Uthman has also been busy offering guidance on households receiving HUD-housing assistance, including “This past year, I helped assemble a group of leaders programming and product enhancements that appeal to public housing, Housing Choice Voucher, and Multifamily across the Division who are committed to being champions multicultural audiences, and looking for opportunities to programs.

By Stacy M. Brown (NNPA Newswire Contributor)

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CHANCE THE RAPPER, JEREMIH AND RISING SINGER DREEZY LEAD NOMINATIONS FOR 36TH ANNUAL CHICAGO MUSIC AWARDS Nearly 200 Nominees Announced at February 1st Press Conference

CHICAGO (February 1, 2017) Three millennial musicians lead the field of nearly 200 nominees in the 36th annual Chicago Music Awards with three nominations each in three separate categories. R&B entertainer Jeremih is nominated as Pop Superstar of the Year, best R&B Entertainer and best Songwriter. Chance the Rapper is nominated as Pop Superstar of the Year, Best Hip Hop/Rap Artist and best Songwriter. Newcomer Dreezy is nominated as R&B Entertainer of the Year, Best Hip Hop/Rap Artist and best Songwriter. The announcement was made at a press conference held Wednesday, February 1st at Kingston Mines Blues Club, 2548 North Halsted Street in Chicago. Joining them with two nominations each are Fall Out Boy, nominat ed as Pop Superstar and Record Producer of the Year, BJ the Chicago Kid, nominated as Pop Entertainer of the Year and best R&B Entertainer and newcomer Tink, nominated as Best Female Vocalist and Best Songwriter. Three of Chicago's leading Caribbean bands Gizzae, Indika and Hurricane will battle it out for Best Reggae Band and Best Calypso Entertainer of 2016. In addition, two of the artists vying for the title of Best New Entertainer were also nominated in a second category: Tomiko Dixon as Best Blues Entertainer and Ravyn Lenae as Most Talented Teen (1319). The Kingston Mines was also nominated in two club categories, Most Popular Club and Best Blues Club. The Chicago Music Awards pay tribute to Chicago's rich and diverse musical heritage. Nearly 200 nominees in 39 categories ranging from musicians, songwriters, producers, clubs, comedians, dancers, and radio stations among others will compete for the coveted Chicago Music Award in the 36th annual event. Nominees represent a wide range of musical genres includ ing Blues, Jazz, Gospel, Latin, Classical, R&B, Reggae, Country, Calypso, and Rock among them. In addition, Electronic Dance Music, Steppin', House and Dancehall music are the newest categories. In a new twist this year, dancers will compete before a live audience at the awards ceremony during the Battle of the DJS. Each group will square off against others in their cat egory with the audience deciding the winners. Now through March 8, 2017, music fans can cast their votes at www.chicagomusicawards.org. Ballots are also available via email at chicagomusicawards@gmail.com, by calling 312/4270266 and at various

Chance the Rapper

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sponsor locations, record stores and clubs citywide. Completed ballots should be mailed to Chicago Music Awards, 1325 S. Wabash Avenue, Ste. 307, Chicago, 60605. Only one vote per person allowed. Winners will be revealed the night of the awards ceremony. The accounting firm will verify all categories, votes and winners before they are officially released. In addition to the nominees, special Lifetime Achievement Awards will be presented to Dr. Lou Della EvansReid, revered minister of music at Fellowship Baptist Church, Hank Zemola, founder and chief executive officer of Special Events Management (SEM), John Vernon, advertising director, Illinois Entertainer, Tony Wilson, nationally recognized as "Young James Brown," and Lonie Walker, entertainer and owner of the Underground Wonder Bar. Awards of Honor will be presented to Bobby Braun, Braun Events, Inc. pres ident; sound engineer and production expert Ernie Green; and special events director Tracey Williams. All have made significant contributions to the music industry for 25 to 50 plus years. The 36th Annual Chicago Music Awards takes place Saturday, March 18, 2017 at the Stephen M. Bailey Auditorium, 1340 W. Washington Blvd., Chicago. Doors open at 6:00 pm. Special earlybird tickets are available now at www.chicagomusicawards.org or www.facebook.com/chicagomusi cawards. General admission tickets are $36 (+4 fee); VIP tickets which include the Celebrity Red Carpet and VIP Reception are $55 (+4 fee). For more information call 3124270266 or email chicagomusicawards@gmail.com Dedicated to Health Awareness, this event is made possible with the support of the following sponsors: NBC 5 Chicago, Old World Market, Kensey & Kensey Communications, LaFruteria, Inc., Rogers Park Fruit ® Market, Kingston Mines Blues Club, All United Imports, Rasta Love Punch, African Spectrum, Africa USA Today magazine and others. Nominees were selected by experts in the music and entertainment industry.

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10 / CITIZEN / Chicago Weekend / Week of February 8, 2017

health

Premature Birth Is Linked To Mom’s Heart Disease Later In Life

WHITE PLAINS, N.Y., Feb. 3, 2017 / PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Having a premature baby raises a woman’s risk for heart attack or stroke later in life, according to a study published February 2 in Circulation at the start of American Heart Month. Lauren J. Tanz, MSPH, and colleagues at the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health analyzed data from more than 70,000 participants in the ongoing Nurses’ Health Study II at Harvard to examine the association between premature delivery and future cardiovascular disease (CVD). They found that women who delivered a baby before 37 weeks gestation in their first birth had a 40 percent greater risk of heart disease

later in life, even after accounting for prepregnancy sociodemographic, lifestyle, and CVD risk factors, compared to women with term deliveries. Women who delivered before 32 weeks gestation had double the risk of CVD compared to women with term deliveries. The researchers say premature delivery may be an early warning sign of future heart problems, rather than the cause of them. More research is needed to determine the pathways through which premature delivery and CVD are linked. “This study linking preterm birth and later CVD adds further urgency to groundbreaking research supported by the March of Dimes to prevent and treat

prematurity,” says Paul E. Jarris, MD, MBA, senior vice president for Maternal Child Health Impact and deputy medical officer. “It suggests that one day we may be able to screen young women at risk for both conditions to improve the health of mothers and babies throughout their lifetimes.” The American Heart Association already considers pre-eclampsia and gestational diabetes to be risk factors for future CVD. “Our results suggest preterm delivery should be added to this list,” the study authors said. For the latest resources and health information, please visit marchofdimes.org and nacersano.org. For detailed national, state and local perinatal statistics, please visit peristats.org.

Chiropractic Care Now Covered By Most Insurance Plans

If You Have to Hold This Article at Arm’s Length, You Should Read This (NewsUSA) -As the author Oscar Wilde said, “With age comes wisdom.” For a lot of us, though, age also means we have difficulty seeing things up close, including this article. It happens to almost everyone -- you may find yourself holding things farther away to see them clearly, or realize you’re struggling to read small print. In either case, your eyes probably don’t see as well as they used to. Here’s what doctors know: as you age, the lens in your eye gets less flexible so that by your mid-40s, you’re likely

holding anything you’re trying to read at arm’s length. If this sounds familiar, you may be among the one billion people who have presbyopia, an age-related condition that makes it difficult to see things up close. “It’s important for people to understand that what happens to our eyes between 40 and 50 years old is completely normal,” says Dr. Howard Purcell, senior vice president of customer development at Essilor of America, the creators of Varilux lenses, a leading

progressive lens solution. “The best way to know if you have developed presbyopia is to visit your eye doctor to get a comprehensive eye exam.” Aging is a part of life, and while diet, exercise, and other habitual changes can help, presbyopia is natural and may be inevitable -- even for those who have always had perfect vision. “For more information about presbyopia and progressive lenses, schedule an appointment with your eye doctor and visit www.varilux.com.

www.thechicagocitizen.com • 51 years of serving the Black community

CITIZEN / Chicago Weekend / Week of February 8, 2017 / 11

Ways to Stretch Your Health Benefits

(Family Features) Often, employees enroll in medical insurance plans for protection against unpredictable events, sudden illness or serious health concerns that may result in expensive medical bills. Getting the most from your benefits requires understanding coverages and deductibles, as well as taking advantage of voluntary benefits, like dental, vision and hearing, to stay healthy and save money. Avoid surprises. About 91 percent of adults in the United States are confused about what their benefits cover, according to a recent Harris poll. The best starting point is to review your plan so you understand the care and services covered. If you have a high-deductible plan, you will Photo courtesy of Getty Images need to pay for most or a percentage of the health costs until reaching the plans, such as dental and vision, offer preventive individual or family deductible. Be prepared exams, such as routine cleanings and vision to pay any copayments or deductibles the plan exams, that are fully covered. That’s because requires before receiving care. Also, before these preventive exams help to maintain and scheduling appointments, ask for a cost estimate improve overall health and help reduce health for the appointment, tests or service. costs. Voluntary coverage is affordable and Preventive dental and vision. Many voluntary many plans offer added incentives. For example,

(NewsUSA) - It’s being called “a gamechanger” - and for good reason. Tens of millions of Americans seeking chiropractic care are now routinely covered by major medical plans, Medicare, workers’ compensation, and even some Medicaid plans. Studies have shown that chiropractic reduces costs per episode of care by as much as 40 percent.

coverage for LASIK, dental, vision and hearing benefits can increase from one year to the next for those who continue to enroll and use their benefits. Members could earn monetary rewards to use for dental, vision, LASIK, orthodontia and hearing benefits, care materials and services simply by using their benefits and keeping the benefits paid out under a specified amount. Medical screenings. Routine health screenings, such as mammograms, immunizations, colonoscopy procedures and prostate cancer screenings, which may be covered fully or in part by your medical coverage, can help you stay healthy and lower health care costs. Get paid to save. Many employers encourage employees to save money by matching a percentage of the amount the employee contributes to the plan. If available, enroll in a Health Savings Account or Flexible Spending Account to set aside money to pay for health care costs. Remember that these accounts are not a substitute for the coverage provided by voluntary benefits. Learn more about the questions to ask when reviewing benefit plans at ameritasinsight.com

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12 / CITIZEN / Chicago Weekend / Week of February 8, 2017

CITIZEN / Chicago Weekend / Week of February 8, 2017 / 13

black history events

GREEN DOT PURCHASES SIMMONS’ RUSHCARD IN MEGADEAL

EVENT OF THE WEEK

By Stacy M. Brown (NNPA Newswire Contributor)

AFRICAN AMERICAN HISTORY MONTH PROGRAMS COMING TO SOUTH SUBURBAN COLLEGE South Suburban College’s Office of Student Life & Leadership presents four programs open to the public at no charge in honor of African American History Month. Poetry Slam and Open Mike w/Jus Words Date: Wednesday, February 8, 2017 Time: 11:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m. Place: SSC Cafeteria SSC welcomes Chicago Author, Songwriter, Street Poet and Spoken Word Artist Bwana “Jus Words” Phillips. Transitioning from being a member of the “Four Corner Hustler” organization to a unique writer, Jus Words took his interest of the gangs and streets and combined his writing skills to create lyrical storylines. Most of his story lines focus on the rugged realities of the blocks in Englewood and Roseland Communities. African American History 101 for Everyone Date: Wednesday, February 15, 2017 Time: 10:00 a.m. – 10:50 a.m. Place: Kindig Performing Arts Center This is one presentation you will not want to

Celebrate African American History Month with CPL Join the Chicago Public Library (CPL) in celebrating African American History Month. CPL is bringing African American history, music and crafts to a CPL location near you. Upcoming Events Storytelling with Mama Edie: Listen to original stories and poems that bring to life African American scientists and inventors. Dance for Your Life!: Experience a fun and exciting way to introduce the whole family to the history of dance with educator and instructor Jazmyne Thomas. West African Djembe Drumming: Learn about one of West Africa’s best-known instruments, the djembe drum, presented by drumming instructor Michael Taylor, along with a performance by After School Matters. Explore event details and a complete list of African American History Month events by visiting http://www. chipublib.org.

miss! Retired SSC History Professor Art Burton will share with you some unknown facts about African American History that you should know but probably never heard of. How to Feel Good About Yourself

Date: Tuesday, February 21, 2017 Time: 1:00 p.m. – 2:15 p.m. Place: Kindig Performing Arts Center If you like feeling good (and who doesn’t) then this event is for you. Poetry is Yusef’s first love, but “How to Feel Good about Yourself,” a selfempowerment manual, is his current pride and joy. Yusef writes what he feels; he hopes you feel what he writes. Yusef Ali El was born in Chicago and grew up in Pembroke Township, Illinois. He received his B.A. from the University of New Hampshire and a Masters in Literature from Governors State University. He has published five books in the last three years. Muntu Dance Theatre of Chicago Tuesday, February 28, 2017 Time: 7:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m. Place: Kindig Performing Arts Center Students, Faculty and Staff are invited to a musical concert and cultural immersion featuring the Muntu Dance Theatre of Chicago. For more information on these events, please contact Corrie Gray of Student Programming, at (708) 596-2000, ext. 2499. South Suburban College is located at 15800 South State Street, South Holland, Illinois.

Harold Washington Library What: Storyteller Lynn Rymarz will bring to life the bus boycott and Rosa Parks, the civil rights icon who refused to give up her seat on a bus to a white person. When: Feb. 24 at 11 am Where: The Harold Washington Library, located on 400 S State St, In the program room of the Thomas Hughes Children’s Library. For more information, call 312-747-4200 to register groups of six or more.

Spinning Into Butter The play “Spinning Into Butter” explores race, racism and political correctness. Where: The Josephine Louis Theater, 20 Arts Circle Drive, Northwestern University’s Evanston campus. For a full schedule and ticket information, visit communication. northwestern.edu/tic. “Let Your Motto Be Resistance: African American Portraits.”

The DuSable Museum, which celebrates black history year-round, will host a lecture series in conjunction with the exhibit “Let Your Motto Be Resistance: African American Portraits.” Kristen P. Buick, associate professor of art history at the University of New Mexico, will trace the life of sculptor Edmonia Lewis, 5:30 to 8 p.m. Feb. 10, and Deborah Willis, curator of the exhibit, will discuss race and photography in African-American imagery, 5:30 8 p.m., Feb. 24. For more information, visit dusablemuseum.org

A Family Portrait The City of Evanston Cultural Arts Division, in collaboration with the Fleetwood-Jourdain Community Center, will host the exhibit “A Family Portrait” at the Noyes Art Gallery, 927 Noyes St. in Evanston, featuring works by the Turner family, including parents Josephine Curtis Turner and Robert (Bobby) Lee Turner of Chicago’s South Side. For more information, call the Cultural Arts Division at 847-448-8260. The Chicago Park District is also planning a number of events in honor of Black History Month. For details, visit chicagoparkdistrict.com.

www.thechicagocitizen.com • 51 years of serving the Black community

Dot.

Every American needs a RushCard — or Green

That’s the mantra of RushCard founder and business mogul Russell Simmons, who together with Green Dot Corporation President Steven Streit, explained the intricacies of their new partnership in an interview with the NNPA Newswire. Simmons and Streit said Green Dot Corporation has agreed to purchase UniRush, LLC, the parent company of the RushCard prepaid debit card. The deal is worth about $167 million and will merge Green Dot’s 4.5 million cardholders with RushCard’s 750,000 account holders. Simmons, long a champion for the underbanked and unbanked, will remain with the company and continue to play a significant role in guiding the union in its mission to create more banking opportunities for all Americans. “There are some things that we can do with our card that will be happening soon that will make us unique,” Simmons said. “I don’t care how many cards you have in your wallet, you will need us with all of the tools and resources we’ll have. Every American needs a RushCard.” Among those resources are the formation of the nation’s largest mobile, online and direct mail “direct-toconsumer” providers of bank accounts, debit cards and other financial services. Of course, Green Dot’s acquisition of the RushCard enhances the company’s prospects among the tech-savvy,

execute.” The two CEOs said while they’ve long been competitors, they’ve also been admirers. Together, Green Dot and RushCard are two of the oldest prepaid debit cards in the marketplace. Simmons’ RushCard popularized prepaid cards, while Green Dot pioneered the reloadable prepaid card and is the largest provider in the U.S., according to Forbes Magazine. Recognized with numerous industry awards including a two-time winner of Ernst & Young Entrepreneur of the Year, Streit has heavily been involved in philanthropic efforts, founding Patti’s Way, a 501(c)(3) charitable foundation providing grants to single mothers and their children. Streit also has mentored children in foster care in Russell Simmons, long a champion for the underbanked and unbanked, Los Angeles and has been a benefactor to the Los Angeles will remain with the company and continue to play a significant role in guiding the union in its mission to create more banking opportunities for all Police Department’s Hollenbeck Police Athletic League. “Russell and I are both philanthropic and, yes, it’s Americans. (UniRush) always a danger when you align yourself with any human because you’re always worried about someone getting into urban and millennial consumer segments of the financial trouble,” Streit said. “But, Russell has so many years of being services market where RushCard has traditionally excelled. an activist and, as far as his activism goes, I love it. Look, Viewed by many as both a pioneer in the financial money is power, money is politics and money has its means services industry and as a passionate advocate for the and Russell gets it.” unbanked and underserved communities, Streit said his Streit said Simmons’ voice and creative spirit and love mission continues to be to financially educate low-income for the community at-large were important factors in doing a families and to serve their needs. The deal is one Simmons called “a no-brainer” and one deal of this magnitude. “I don’t like when big companies buy companies and that will greatly benefit his already large customer base. homogenize it. I wanted to make sure we kept the flavor “We made a move to make sure that we better service and kept Russell’s energy, love and passion,” Streit said. our customers and that’s why we did this deal,” Simmons In the end, the pair each said the deal was easy. said. “We were set up to do a partnership and we will

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14 / CITIZEN / Chicago Weekend / Week of February 8, 2017

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PBS Honors Extraordinary Achievements and Explores Important Conversations as Part of Black History Month Programming founder Berry Gordy and featuring To honor Black History Month, performances by BeBe Winans, and as part of its commitment to Ledisi and CeeLo Green, to name celebrate the diversity of America a few. Robinson, a rhythm and year-round, PBS kicks off a new blues icon nicknamed the “King year with documentaries and of Motown,” has enjoyed a career specials that highlight the Africanspanning more than half a century. American experience through The Library of Congress Gershwin content on-air on PBS member Prize for Popular Song is awarded stations and online through the annually to a composer or performer PBS Black Culture Connection. whose lifetime achievements New offerings include programs that reflect on the contributions of exemplify the standard of icons like the late Maya Angelou, excellence associated with the applaud beloved artists like Smokey Gershwins. Robinson and showcase independent In addition to on-air documentaries about the valiant programs, the PBS Black Culture efforts of those pushing for change Connection (BCC), an extension through thoughtful dialogue. of PBS.org, features black films, On Monday, stories and February 6, discussion across Emmy-winning PBS, and provides documentary series audiences with a INDEPENDENT catalogue of more LENSpresents “Birth than 30 programs of a Movement,” available for based on the book streaming. Most The Birth of a PBS programs Movement: How are available Birth of a Nation for streaming Ignited the Battle following their for Civil Rights broadcast via by Dick Lehr. The the PBS apps for documentary tells iOS and Android the little-known devices and via story of William station-branded THIRTEEN’s American Masters Trotter, an Africandigital platforms Presents Exclusive U.S. American journalist Broadcast Premiere of Maya including Roku, Angelou: And Still I Rise, who launched a AppleTV, Amazon February 21 on PBS During Black Fire TV and protest against History Month the 1915 release Chromecast. of D. W. Griffith’s On Tuesday, controversial epic, February 21, which laid the groundwork for the AMERICAN MASTERSpresents civil rights movement to come. “Maya Angelou: And Still I Rise,” the Featuring interviews with historians first documentary feature about the and filmmakers such as Henry Louis incomparable author and activist Gates, Jr. and Spike Lee, “Birth of Dr. Maya Angelou (1928-2014), a Movement” also explores how best known for her autobiography Griffith’s film continues to motivate I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings. African-American filmmakers and The film weaves her words with rare the artists as they work to reclaim and intimate archival photographs their history and their onscreen and videos that paint hidden image. Also from INDEPENDENT facets of her exuberant life during LENS, airing Monday, February 13, is some of America’s most defining “Accidental Courtesy,”featuring Daryl moments. From her upbringing in Davis, an African-American musician the Depression-era South to her who meets and befriends members work with Malcolm X in Ghana, of the Ku Klux Klan in an attempt to to her inauguration poem for change their minds and forge racial President Bill Clinton, the film takes conciliation, one racist at a time. a journey through the life of a true On Friday, February 10, airing American icon. The documentary as part of PBS Arts programming, features exclusive interviews with SMOKEY ROBINSON: THE Dr. Angelou, her friends and family, LIBRARY OF CONGRESS including Clinton, Oprah Winfrey, GERSHWIN PRIZE FOR Common, Alfre Woodard, Cicely POPULAR SONG honors singerTyson, Quincy Jones, Hillary songwriter Smokey Robinson during Clinton, Louis Gossett, Jr., John this star-studded music special, Singleton and Dr. Angelou’s son, Guy hosted by Samuel L. Jackson, with Johnson. a special appearance by Motown For more information, visit pbs.org.

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LEGAL NOTICE 30 days is hereby given to Iesha Marsh and William Jones of 7138 S Langley, Chicago, IL 60619 and 8205 Kingston Apt 3 Chicago 60617. That a 2005 GMC Envoy XL, VIN# 1GKDT13S952122383 must be picked up from Kar Kare Service 7455 S Exchange Ave Chicago IL 60649 by March 8, 2017 or it will be sold for $1,990 in outstanding repairs of $999.76 and storage fees of $990.24. __________________________________ Notice is hereby given, pursuant to "An Act in relation to the use of an Assumed Business Name in the conduct or trans action of Business in the State, as amended, that a certification was regis tered by the undersigned with the County Clerk of Cook County. Registration Number: D17149442 on January 26, 2017 Under the Assumed Business Name of MERCH CLUB with the business located at: 8506 S. SAGI NAW AVE., CHICAGO, IL 60617.The true and real full name and residence address of the owner is: ANTHONY MCROYAL 8506 S. SAGINAW AVE. CHICAGO, IL 60617,USA __________________________________

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Galentine's Day is the Real Valentine's Day for Girlfriends Time to Celebrate the Power of Female Friendships and Your Sister CHICAGO (January 30, 2017) While most are readying for Valentine's Day, lifelong BFFs of The Force of Friendship (FOF) see February 13, Galentine's Day, as the real holiday. For them, it's yet another opportunity to empower, uplift and celebrate their more than 30year friendship. Friendship for these seven women is not coincidental or contrived. It is honest sisterly love that bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, and endures all things. Throughout the more than 30year friendship, the women have experi enced the pendulum from joy to pain that life can bring. Successful careers. International travel. Marriage. Motherhood. Divorce. Abuse. Death. Yet through it all, they remain a solid support system for each other, provid ing encouragement and consoling, and say their bond continually deepens. Experts say that although friendship is one of the most critical elements of our lives, it also is the most least understood. LauraMiller explains in Ebony, "Women were created to have confidants. It has been studied and ver ified in the Harvard Medical Journal that there is healing power when women seek friendship and sisterhood..." "A good friend knows your best sto ries and a best friend has lived them with you," explains Caterina Harris Earl in "The

Force of Friendship: 100 Powerful Inspirations," the new book she coauthored with her six besties. "While it seems as if it is so hard for us to find the time to connect, when we do it's magi cal. Friends remind you of who you really are. They have a way of giving you wings to fly when you are feeling defeated and help keep you humble when you are a little too full of yourself."

16 / CITIZEN / Chicago Weekend / Week of February 8, 2017

Join us as we honor Black Art and Expression through the work of Saul Williams at...

MACY’S ON STATE STREET NARCISSUS ROOM, 7TH FLOOR WEDNESDAY, FEB. 15TH, 5:30PM

Jay Ellis Actor

Join host Robin Robinson for a panel discussion featuring the star of HBO’s “Insecure”, Jay Ellis, Grammy nominated R&B vocalist BJ The Chicago Kid, and award-winning chef and author, Jocelyn Delk Adams! Catch a performance by The Young Chicago

BJ The Chicago Kid Vocalist

Authors, plus enjoy light refreshments and meet our panelists at a reception following the event!

RSVP and check out exclusive content featuring

Jocelyn Delk Adams

Saul Williams and join the celebration at

Chef

macys.com/celebrate

Event subject to change or cancellation.