Citizen CELEBRATING BLACK HISTORY MONTH Week of Feb. 12, 2020
| Vol. 31 | No. 12 | www.citizennewspapergroup.com
HYDE PARK
BLACK HISTORY FOCUS
Housing Choices for Blacks Has Fallen and Risen PAGE 3
BUSINESS
Ilyce Glink and ThinkGlink Announce New Credit Education Series, Sponsored by Equifax PAGE 4
Poet Nikki Giovanni (pictured) was the featured speaker at the 37th Annual Dr. George E. Kent Lecture at the University of Chicago. Photo Credit: Tia Carol Jones
NEWS
Smart Saving Strategies PAGE 8
POET FEATURED AT 37TH ANNUAL KENT LECTURE “As a Black American, we have done a lot for this country,” said poet Nikki Giovanni during her speech at the 37th Annual Dr. George E. Kent Lecture. PAGE 2
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2 | CITIZEN | Hyde Park | Week of Feb. 12, 2020
NEWS briefly EDUCATION
NEW AGREEMENT OFFERS NURSING STUDENTS PATH FROM LEWIS AND CLARK COMMUNITY COLLEGE TO UIC BSN DEGREE The board of trustees of the University of Illinois, on behalf of the UIC College of Nursing and UIC Extended Campus, and Lewis and Clark Community College (L&C) in downstate Godfrey, Illinois, has entered into a memorandum of understanding to create a dual-admissions pathway from the Lewis and Clark associate degree in nursing (ADN) program to UIC’s online RN to BSN degree completion program. According to the American Association of Colleges of Nursing, the U.S. is projected to experience a shortage of registered nurses that is expected to intensify as Baby Boomers age and the need for health care grows. “This innovative new opportunity for students is an example of higher education in Illinois working together to fill a critical workforce shortage in our area,” said State Sen. Andy Manar (D-Bunker Hill). “This new dual credit pathway with the University of Illinois System and Lewis & Clark Community College is exactly the type of thing we should be doing in Illinois to help better deliver higher quality healthcare to underserved areas.”
HEALTH
2019 DEBBIE’S DREAM FOUNDATION SCHOLARSHIP ESSAY CONTEST WINNERS Debbie’s Dream Foundation: Curing Stomach Cancer (DDF) recently announced the winners of the 2019 DDF Scholarship Essay Contest. Nasir Thompson, 10, from Las Vegas won $100 in the elementary school division for his essay on ways to treat stomach cancer and his dreams for finding a cure. Melanie McNair, 12, also from Las Vegas, won $200 in the middle school division for writing about how she would work to improve the lives of stomach cancer patients if she were president. Amari Carpenter, 16, from Atlanta, Georgia, won $700 in the high school division for his compelling essay on the importance of stomach cancer research and how he thinks the federal government should allocate more funds to that area. Amari Carpenter This year’s essay contest was open to children between the ages of 5 to 18 across the United States and consisted of three categories: elementary, middle, and high school. Submissions were accepted from September to December 2019. The essays were scored by celebrity judges Brad Meltzer, #1 New York Times bestselling author, and Rochelle Weinstein, USA Today and Amazon bestselling author.
LAW & POLITICS
FTC WARNS 19 VOIP SERVICE PROVIDERS THAT ‘ASSISTING AND FACILITATING’ ILLEGAL TELEMARKETING OR ROBOCALLING IS AGAINST THE LAW Federal Trade Commission staff recently sent letters to 19 Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) service providers warning them that “assisting and facilitating” illegal telemarketing or robocalling is against the law. FTC Bureau of Consumer Protection Director Andrew Smith said, “These warning letters put VoIP providers on notice that we will take action when they knowingly facilitate illegal robocalls.” The letters warn the VoIP service providers that the FTC may take legal action against them if they assist a seller or telemarketer who they know, or consciously avoid knowing, is violating the agency’s Telemarketing Sales Rule (TSR). The FTC is not disclosing the names of the companies and/or individuals to whom it sent the warnings. The letters note several types of conduct that may violate the TSR, including but not limited to making a false or misleading statement to induce a consumer to buy something or contribute to a charity, misrepresenting a seller or telemarketer’s affiliation with any government agency and transmitting false or deceptive caller ID numbers, among other conduct.
Poet featured at 37th Annual Kent Lecture Continued from page 1 BY TIA CAROL JONES
“As a Black American, we have done a lot for this country,” said poet Nikki Giovanni during her speech at the 37th Annual Dr. George E. Kent Lecture. Giovanni was featured at the lecture on Thursday, Feb. 6, at the University of Chicago at the Harris School of Public Policy. The event was hosted by the Organization of Black Students. Three students from the Kenwood Academy Spoken Word Group performed. The Dr. George E. Kent Lecture is the kick-off to Black History Month events at the University of Chicago. It was named in honor of Kent, who was the first African-American professor of English at the University of Chicago. Past speakers include Donna Brazile in 2014, Director Ryan Coogler in 2016, Corey Booker in 2012, Historian Henry Louis Gates, Jr., in 2011, Angela Davis in 2008 and Black Lives Matter co-founder Patrise Cullors in 2019. Michelle Hoereth is the director of diversity and inclusion at the Harris School of Public Policy. She said it was exciting for the school to partner with the Organi-
zation of Black Students on the event. “Everything we do here, we challenge our students to think about policy,” she said. Giovanni, who discussed numerous topics, said she thinks it’s ridiculous a 16-year old can get a driver’s license, but can’t vote. She also talked about race, the Constitution, the president, impeachment, Black women and other topics. Black women get along with everything and have found a way to love despite things that have happened to us,” she said. “Somebody has to say it’s important to love, too,” she added. “We as women ought to keep saying that to everyone.” She also talked about slavery and Africa. “Our African ancestors owe us an apology because they sold us,” she said. Giovanni talked about Kobe Bryant’s death and how she was touched by Shaquille O’Neal’s response to it. “If Shaquille O’Neal can cry, it’s perfectly alright,” she said. “Men, you have emotions and you should be able to show them.” Giovanni said Black people come from a great people and our ancestors were “not uneducated, just un-de-
greed.” “I hope you remember who you came from,” she said. “We have to remember who we are and where we came from.” She cautioned the audience not to get caught up in things, especially the pursuit of money. “You have to be careful how you use it,” she said. “You cannot let the world change you.” She also had a word for the audience about aging. “I certainly recommend old age, it’s the best thing that can happen to you,” she said. After her speech, Giovanni sat down with Danielle Roper, a professor at the University of Chicago. “When hasn’t art been important? Art has always been important. Jesus was a poet,” Giovanni said. Giovanni added, using words in your own way is a skill. She said people have to control their own lives. “What you have to find is who you are. Be you and that takes some time,” she said. “It’s about life. You have to want something better than yourself. There has to be something you know that makes you happy.”
Celebration Honors Cultural & Civic Leaders in Chicago Landmarks Illinois will mark the 15th anniversary of the Legendary Landmarks Celebration on March 5, 2020, in Chicago. The annual event is the biggest fundraiser of the year for Landmarks Illinois, the only statewide historic preservation nonprofit helping people all across Illinois save the treasured places in their communities. Each year, the Legendary Landmarks Celebration attracts more than 750 people to honor cultural and civic leaders who make a positive impact on our city and state. This year, Landmarks Illinois will pay tribute to 2020 Legendary Landmark Honorees Timuel D. Black Jr., civil rights leader and educator; Joseph P. Gromacki, senior partner of Jenner & Block LLP; and Matthew and Daniel Walsh, co-chairman of The Walsh Group. “Whether it’s bringing forward stories of the struggle for civil rights, connecting people with resources or training them with new skills, our 2020 honorees shape our city — and its history — by investing in others,” said Bonnie McDonald,
Landmarks Illinois president & CEO. “Landmarks Illinois is proud to honor their work as a model for others.” The annual Legendary Landmarks Celebration is instrumental in funding Landmarks Illinois’ mission-driven advocacy programs, the heart of the organization’s work. Guests enjoy networking, dinner, drinks and an inspirational program that demonstrates Landmarks Illinois’ impact throughout the state, in addition to tributes to the Legendary Landmark Honorees. Legendary Landmark Honorees Timuel D. Black Jr. is a noted civil rights leader, educator, historian, author and WWII veteran who has devoted his life to promoting Black history. At age 101, Black continues to give tours to young people in Bronzeville and share the stories of historic and culturally significant places on Chicago’s South Side, where he has spent most of his life.
CELEBRATING BLACK HISTORY MONTH
Joseph P. Gromacki, a senior partner at the law firm of Jenner & Block LLP, is a civic leader and an active patron of the arts, serving on the boards of the Art Institute of Chicago, the Terra Foundation for American Art, the Richard H. Driehaus Museum, the Illinois Governor’s Mansion Association and several other organizations. A member of the National Trust Council and Landmarks Illinois Emeritus Board, he has championed many historic preservation efforts. The Walsh Group, founded in 1898, is a fourth-generation family-owned, Chicago-based business providing services and finance for a wide variety of construction projects nationwide. The Walsh Group is the lead contractor on Chicago’s iconic Old Cook County Hospital project, a historic asset Landmarks Illinois advocated to save for 19 years. Co-Chairmen Matthew Walsh and Daniel J. will accept the honor on
behalf of The Walsh Group. Additional Event Information The Landmarks Illinois 2020 Legendary Landmarks Celebration will take place at the Hilton Chicago, 720 S. Michigan Ave., and begin at 5:30 p.m. with a cocktail reception in the hotel’s Normandie Lounge. An awards program and dinner will take place at 6:30 p.m. in the Grand Ballroom, and an after party featuring live music and dessert will follow at 8:30 p.m. For the second year in a row, Landmarks Illinois will have Second City and Saturday Night Live alum Tim Kazurinsky serve as Master of Ceremonies for the evening. Event Reservations Individual reservations for the celebration begin at $500 per person. Table reservations for 10 people are available at $5,000, $10,000, $25,000 and $50,000 levels. Learn more about sponsorship opportunities and reservations at http://www. landmarks.org/events/ legendary-landmarks-celebration/
CITIZEN | Hyde Park | Week of Feb. 12, 2020
NEWS
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BLACK HISTORY
The shuttered Central Arms Motel in Bronzeville was among the few motels in the neighborhood 40 years ago when housing choices for blacks were limited. Photo credit: Wendell Hutson
The Nike Foundation, an advocate for youth, recently donated $5 million to the Obama Foundation to help build an athletic and fitness center inside the planned Obama Presidential Center in Jackson Park. Photo credit: Courtesy of the Nike Foundation
Nike Foundation Getting in Shape with Obama Presidential Center BY WENDELL HUTSON Contributing Writer
The Nike Foundation is collaborating with the Obama Foundation to ensure that once the Obama Presidential Center (OPC) is built, it includes useful community space such as an athletic facility. “The Obama Presidential Center will be the first presidential center to include an athletic and fitness facility. It will provide opportunities for play and sports to the kids of Chicago’s South Side, and we hope it also inspires visitors from around the world to get active as well,” Jorge Casimiro, president of the Nike Foundation, told the Citizen. “Together, Nike and the Obama Foundation are working together to give youth, both those from Chicago and around the world, opportunities to positively impact their communities through the power of sports.” In January, the Nike Foundation donated $5 million to the Obama Foundation to support the planning, development and construction of the Athletic Center, according to Casimiro. The purpose for the donation, added Casimiro, is to “unite the world through sports, to create a healthy planet, active communities, and an equal playing field for all. We collaborate with organizations that bring this commitment to life with us.” Donating millions of dollars is nothing new for the Nike Foundation as it invested more than $81 million in 2019 “to drive positive impact in communities globally,” said Casimiro. “We partnered with 20 plus local organizations and community programs in Chicago and the state of Illinois. Chicago matters to Nike.” Since 2007, Nike has maintained retail stores on the South Side, according to Nike officials, and since 2008, it has been a sponsor for the Chicago Marathon. It is also a founding donor of the sports gallery
of the Smithsonian’s National Museum of African American History and Culture in Washington, D.C. Ultimately, the OPC will be built in Jackson Park, even though groundbreaking for the $500 million project has yet to take place. It was originally slated to break ground in 2018 with a 2021 completion date, but those plans were tossed out after a community group filed a lawsuit in an effort to protect the parkland. But a federal judge dismissed the suit in 2019 and since then, no date has been set for a groundbreaking or completion. But regardless of when the OPC will be built, the Nike Foundation plans to support it until completion. “Being a founding donor of the Obama Presidential Center is representative of our commitment to creating active communities and equal playing fields,” said Casimiro. “(The Athletic Center is) one of the key community features at the Obama Presidential Center on the South Side of Chicago.” Michael Strautmanis, vice president of civic engagement for the OPC, said the foundation is focused on doing work in collaboration with community leaders and other stakeholders to “bring tangible benefits to the community.” Among the community commitments pledged by the foundation, is awarding a minimum of 50 percent of construction subcontracts (valued at $300 million to $350 million) to diverse firms; opening a South Side resource center for residents to learn about job opportunities at the Obama Center; establishing apprenticeship training programs in Washington Park, Woodlawn, South Shore and other areas where one does not currently exist; supporting neighborhood stabilization efforts; and supporting policies that would foster development of a strong small-business corridor around the presidential center.
Housing Choices for Blacks Has Fallen and Risen BY WENDELL HUTSON Contributing Writer
There used to be a time when blacks had to be careful where they lived in Chicago and the suburbs because segregation had divided people up based on their race and economic status. To some degree, housing is still based largely on race and income even though The Fair Housing Act (Title VIII of the Civil Rights Act of 1968) outlawed such measures. Under this federal law, it is illegal to refuse to sell or rent a dwelling to any person because of religion, sex, familial status, race, color, disability, or national origin. From 1910 to 1930, the “Great Migration” occurred and brought large numbers of blacks to Chicago from the South. In fact, from 1940 to 1960, blacks began coming to Chicago in droves (which historians said was around 60,000) hoping to find good, paying industrial jobs. But Chicago’s housing market grew thus pushing blacks seeking housing to what was called the “Black Belt” located between 12th and 79th streets and Wentworth and Cottage Grove Avenues. And such overcrowding resulted in poor housing conditions for blacks, which was the goal of whites, according to Timuel Black, a 100-year-old historian. He said the game plan all along was to keep blacks out of good neighborhoods and lump blacks together in one concentrated area. These days, a millennial wouldn’t know what a “kitchenette” is but Black said, “those of us old enough to remember can tell you it was not an ideal place to live.” With supply not being able to keep
CELEBRATING BLACK HISTORY MONTH
up with demand, landlords opted to divide up apartments also known as kitchenettes and then charged ridiculous rents for units with no bathrooms. Fast forwarding to nearly 30 years later, local housing choices for blacks improved after years of decline. The Chatham neighborhood on the South Side has historically been a middle-class area where blacks “with a little money” would move to once they “made it,” explained former U.S. Sen. Roland Burris, who has lived in Chatham since 1963. “I remember as a young man I would drive through Chatham and look at all the beautiful homes and say to myself ‘one day I will live here.’ And wouldn’t you know it, I have been a Chatham resident now for almost 60 years,” Burris told the Citizen. “For as far as I can remember, Chatham has always been a predominately black neighborhood although I am beginning to see a few whites walking their dogs in the area, so I guess the neighborhood is diversifying and that’s good.” According to census data, Chatham has a population of 32,844 whose residents are 97 percent black, 2 percent white and 1 percent Hispanic. Burris, an 83-year-old husband, father and grandfather, lives in the same home he bought in 1972 from the late gospel singer Mahalia Jackson. “I bought this home January 30, 1972 and Mahalia died Jan. 27, three days before the sale was to become final,” recalled Burris, who was a real estate attorney at the time. “Her family tried to stop the home from being sold but it was too late because a contract for the home was already in place. It is my Continued on page 8
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BUSINESS Redfin Report: Homes Within Walking Distance of Amenities Sell for More In U.S. cities, homes within walking distance of schools, shopping, parks and other urban amenities sell for an average of 23.5%, or $77,668, more than comparable properties that are car dependent, according to a new report from Redfin (www.redfin.com). To determine how much walkability is worth when buying or selling a house, Redfin looked at sale prices and Walk Score® rankings for nearly 1 million homes sold last year across 16 major U.S. metropolitan areas and two Canadian cities. About a quarter of active Redfin listings are considered walkable, or have a Walk Score ranking of 50 to 100, although only about 4% are a walker’s paradise, or have a Walk Score of 90 and above. While house hunters are willing to spend more for walkability, the premium they’ve paid for properties in this category has slipped 2.3% since the last time Redfin conducted this report, in 2016, when such homes in the U.S. sold for 25.8% more than car-dependent ones. “The premium drop is tied to affordability. Properties that are more affordable are seeing the most demand and price growth right now, and homes in less walkable neighborhoods often fall into this category,” Redfin chief economist Daryl Fairweather said. “There just aren’t as many people who can afford walkable neighborhoods. Many house hunters are also willing to move to less walkable neighborhoods in order to get single-family homes.” Home-sale prices have been rising faster in cardependent areas than in walkable places since September
2018, according to a 2019 Redfin report. Prices in cardependent neighborhoods climbed 4.3% year over year in July to a median of $312,100, compared with a 2.3% annual increase in walkable locations, the data showed. The results for this report differed by metro area. In Boston, walkability increased the value of a home by 29%, or $140,724, the highest premium in dollar terms of all of the U.S. regions that were analyzed. “Boston is very flat, and one of the most walkable cities around. Parking can be difficult, so people often prefer to live near public transportation. We’ve had standalone parking spots sell for six figures in some neighborhoods,” said Redfin Boston team manager April Itano. “Our public transportation is great compared to other cities, and it’s pretty easy to get by without a vehicle if you live downtown. We also have a relatively high percentage of residents who prefer to work and live in the city over the suburbs.” In Oakland, however, walkable homes sold for 1.3% less, or $9,477, than car-dependent homes. The benefits of walkability have also changed over time. In 2016, Atlanta garnered the highest walkability premium—38%—of any metro area. In 2019, it boasted a 30.2% premium. That’s still the highest of all areas Redfin analyzed in percentage terms, but it also marks the largest premium drop. Meanwhile, Tampa saw the biggest boost, with an increase of 6.3% since 2016. To read the full report, please visit: https://www. redfin.com/blog/how-much-does-walkability-increasehome-values
Americans are carrying $13.95 trillion in total household debt, according to 2019 data from the Center for Microeconomic Data.
Ilyce Glink and ThinkGlink Announce New Credit Education Series, Sponsored by Equifax Americans are carrying $13.95 trillion in total household debt, according to 2019 data from the Center for Microeconomic Data — this includes credit card debt, mortgages, home equity lines of credit and auto loans. In a new 5-part Credit 101 series, Ilyce Glink explores common questions about credit reports and credit scores. The series, sponsored by Equifax, will help consumers better understand their credit reports, explain the various types of credit scores and how a consumer’s credit history may influence their ability to get approved for mortgages, auto loans, credit cards or other credit accounts. The series is designed to help consumers make more informed decisions in pivotal financial moments of their lives. Below is a preview of the first article in the series. Read the full article on ThinkGlink.com. Part 1: What’s in your credit reports? Your credit reports summarize your history of borrowing and paying back debt. They help prospective lenders and creditors evaluate how you’ve handled repaying debt in the past which can in turn help them decide whether to offer you credit and at what terms. Although each of the three nationwide consumer reporting agencies formats and reports your information in a slightly different way, credit reports generally include the following: Personal identifying information. This includes identifiers such as your name, address, Social Security number and date of birth. Credit accounts. This includes
CELEBRATING BLACK HISTORY MONTH
open lines of credit, including mortgages, installment loans, revolving accounts and other loans. Credit inquiries. This section lists companies that have accessed your credit history. Potentially negative information. Your reports may include a section on potentially negative information such as bankruptcies. It’s a good idea to check your credit reports regularly to ensure they’re accurate and complete and to make sure you recognize all of the accounts and activity on the report. You can create a myEquifax account (at www.myEquifax.com) to receive six free Equifax credit reports each year. Or you can click “Get my free credit score” on your myEquifax dashboard to enroll in Equifax Core Credit™ for a free monthly Equifax credit report and a free monthly VantageScore® 3.0 credit score, based on Equifax data. A VantageScore® is one of many types of credit scores. As a syndicated financial journalist, media personality and Founder/ CEO of an award-winning financialwellness company, Glink has spent her career empowering consumers by providing them with accessible, comprehensive financial information. She chose to work in partnership with Equifax, an industry-leader in consumer credit education. In the new education series, she’ll provide easy, accessible answers to some of the most common credit questions. The series will update weekly on Ilyce’s website at thinkglink.com.
CITIZEN | Hyde Park | Week of Feb. 12, 2020
MIKE GETS IT.
MIKE GETS IT DONE.
THE ENDURING LEGACY OF RACIAL DISCRIMINATION CONTINUES TO STAND IN THE WAY OF CREATING WEALTH IN BLACK COMMUNITIES.
MIKE’S GREENWOOD INITIATIVE IS A COMPREHENSIVE NATIONAL APPROACH TO CREATING GENERATIONAL WEALTH FOR BLACK AMERICANS. IT INCLUDES:
CHILDREN WITH A GOOD EDUCATION ARE MORE LIKELY TO ACHIEVE THE AMERICAN DREAM. KEEPING KIDS OUT OF THE CRIMINAL JUSTICE SYSTEM IS THE KEY TO A BRIGHT FUTURE.
• • •
Creating 1 million new Black homeowners. Supporting the development of 100,000 new Black-owned businesses. Investing $70 billion in neighborhoods that need it most.
DURING HIS TIME AS MAYOR OF NEW YORK CITY, MIKE:
• •
Increased teacher salaries by 43% and Black student graduation rates by 53%. Reduced crime to historic lows by cutting the murder rate in half and reducing juvenile detention by 36%.
MIKE BLOOMBERG IS THE ONLY DEMOCRATIC PRESIDENTIAL CANDIDATE WITH A PLAN TO BUILD REAL WEALTH FOR BLACK AMERICA AND A TRACK RECORD FOR GETTING THINGS DONE. For more information visit
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In Celebration Of Black History Month
MWRD President Kari. K. Steele shares history making ceremony with the Raising of the Black Heritage Flag. MWRD for the first-time in their 130 -year history raised the Black Heritage Flag as an expression of their support for the Black Community and their commitment to diversity.
The Chicago "300' Black Women, Network Celebrated Chicago's leading Black and small business Professionals The Chicago “300” Black Women, Network celebrated Chicago’s leading Black professional and small-business Professionals, at their 9th annual Top Influential Black Women Professionals Gala & Awards Ceremony at the Tuscany Falls Banquets. Pictured Bottom from left to right: Marissa Nelums; Angelina Hill; Mike and Parris Fitzpatrick; Ryenne Shaw, Esq; Dr. Tammy Hicks, PhD; Nakia Lee Samuels ; Ka’Tee Abercrombie; Mimi Johnson; Farrah Ollins; Tameki Warner; LaTrina Joshua . Top Back left to right: Jessica Boyd; Ryan Lee; Coresa Hill; LaKrisha Davis; Jerquette Balentine; Winter Balentine. Photo by: Billy Montgomery Media Videos
A Double Celebration For Black History Month
Celebrating Black History Month and the birthday of Fernando Jones at the Chicago Center for Arts and Technology are: Kappa brother Judge Boyd; Retired State Senator Emil Jones; Fernando Jones; Retired Alderman Bob Fioretti. Photo by CREDD
Boykin Gets Support For Office
A countywide coalition of 100 Pastors and Faith Leaders came together to endorse Attorney Richard Boykin for Clerk of the Circuit Court of Cook County.
IL. Association of School Board Members Go To DC
The National School Boards Association (NSBA) recently held the 2020 Equity Symposium in Washington, DC. School boards from across the nation participated in workshops and lobby legislatures on Capitol Hill. The representatives discussed various issues affecting school districts in their states. Lobbying in the Congressional Office of US Congresswoman Robin Kelly are: Christina Dupee, SD; Dr. Donna Simpson-Leake, Vice-President Illinois School Boards and Superintendent 168; Allison McCray, VP SD 163; Kelly Fair, CEO Polish Pebbles, Inc; Carolyn Palmer, VP SD 159; US Congresswoman Robin Kelly; Michael Holmes, Int. VP Chicago State University; Attorney Patricia Brown Holmes; Mayor Varnard Alsberry, Hazelcrest, Illinois; Tammy Jones, President SD 168 ; Bernice Brown, Secretary SD 159.
Pictured are: Thomas Neeley, President IASB, Susan Hilton, Director Governmental Relations,; Tom Bertrand, Exec. Director IASB; Dr. William McClinton, President SD 159; Kieta McCloskey, President SD 156; Larry Lawrence, President SD 148; Janet Rogers, President SD152; Mable Chapman, SD 147; Tammy Jones, President SD 160 and Allisaon McCray, VP SD 163.
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CITIZEN | Hyde Park | Week of Feb. 12, 2020
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NEWS
Smart Saving Strategies Family Features - Money management and building long-term financial health is a careful balancing act between long- and short-term financial needs, and now is a perfect opportunity to re-examine your goals. People sometimes focus on short-term needs, making sure they can cover routine bills and living essentials. However, many Americans do not have the resources to cover an unexpected expense, much less save for the future. Data from the U.S. Financial Health Pulse shows that Americans are savings-constrained, over-indebted and underinsured. In fact, despite it being the longest period of economic expansion in modern times, 79% of Americans are not financially healthy, and many live paycheck to paycheck just to cover bills, rent and basic living expenses. As a result, 60% of households are unprepared for a financial shock, with 41% unable to cover an unexpected $400 expense without borrowing money or selling a personal item. This makes saving incredibly challenging, especially for many low-income households. “The data makes it quite clear that a significant segment of America is struggling to create a meaningful savings account, whether it’s intended as an emergency fund or a means of attaining a goal without incurring debt,” said Deborah Winshel, global head of
social impact at BlackRock. Last year, the firm launched its Emergency Savings Initiative, a program designed to help people living on low incomes gain access to, and increase usage of, savings strategies and tools to help establish important safety nets. As with any financial matter, there’s no one “right” way to save. Individual circumstances require a customized approach to determine the best method to fit needs. In addition to traditional saving methods, Common Cents Lab, Commonwealth and the Financial Health Network are working with financial institutions and other enterprises on an initiative to create new and experimental programs that address the challenges many consumers face when it comes to saving money. If you’re not sure where to start, consider these options and consult with your credit union, employer or financial institution to learn more about the options available to fit your unique lifestyle and savings goals.
you to consistently funnel money into savings with a one-time setup process.
Automated Savings Often offered as an option through employer payroll, this approach allows you to designate a portion of your paycheck to be deposited in a savings account. Whether you choose to make it a flat amount or percentage of your income, it’s an easy method that allows
Windfall Moments When you receive a substantial amount of money from a source like a tax refund or a work bonus, it can be tempting to splurge on immediate needs or something fun, like a vacation. Allowing yourself to enjoy a portion of the money isn’t a bad idea, but you can also take advantage of the
Round Up Some financial institutions offer programs in which every transaction you make on your account, or perhaps just those made using your debit card, are rounded up to the nearest whole dollar. The difference between that whole dollar amount and your actual purchase amount is then directed into your savings account. Prize-Linked Savings Marrying the fun of winning prizes and a savings account, this type of program incentivizes personal saving by offering an on-going, risk-free chance to win a prize, such as additional cash, by making savings account deposits. Promising both security and opportunity (and perhaps some fun), the amount deposited by the account holder is never at risk, unlike lotteries and games of chance.
As with any financial matter, there’s no one “right” way to save. Individual circumstances require a customized approach to determine the best method to fit needs. Photo courtesy of Getty Images
unplanned income as an opportunity to launch, or grow, your savings account. Collective Savings Accountability is a common barrier to better saving habits, but when others are counting on you to contribute your share, there’s a greater level of responsibility at play. A collective savings account may be a good solution for a shared goal like a trip, special project or funding a special event for a loved one. To learn more about the savings problem and some of the work being done to help employees, customers, gig workers and students take essential steps toward long-term financial well-being, visit savingsproject.org. SOURCE: Financial Health Network
BLACK HISTORY
Housing Choices for Blacks Has Fallen and Risen Continued from page 3 desire to remain in this home forever.” Jackson bought the 4,000-squarefoot home in 1956 when it had three bedrooms and one bath only to add space to the home and expand it to a four bedroom and two and a half bath house with no basement but a large attic. Chatham is unique though because traditionally, it has always been a black neighborhood. However, Bronzeville is a different South Side neighborhood and is quickly changing into a very diverse community thanks largely to the Chicago Housing Authority’s Plan for Transformation in 2000. The plan included demolishing high-rise buildings and replacing them with two to three story mixed-income, apartment buildings. As a result, Bronzeville, which is 5.2 miles from Downtown, has attracted a drove of middle to upper class families including many whites. Gone is the former Ida B. Wells public housing complex at the corner of Pershing Road and Cottage Grove Avenue. The complex has been replaced with spacious apartments, townhomes and condominiums.
“Bronzeville is becoming the ‘new’ version of Hyde Park when you look at the housing available in the area,” contends Harriet Moore, 74, a Bronzeville resident since 1984. “I can tell you that blacks still dominate the population but whites are quickly discovering the neighborhood too.” There are 24,014 residents in Bronzeville, according to census data, and the average household income is $50,157 and the median household income is $33,959. “There’s not a lot of poor people living in Bronzeville anymore since public housing was redeveloped in Chicago,” she added. “That’s why I say Bronzeville is looking more and more like Hyde Park, and soon it may be too expensive for common folks like myself, a retired school teacher, to live here.” Beyond historically black neighborhoods like Chatham and Bronzeville, housing has shifted in other areas like Auburn Gresham on the South Side based on race. “Auburn Gresham used to be a predominately white community but then a shift began around 1980 when whites were moving further west, and the dividing line was Damen Avenue
The Sutherland Building in Bronzeville is not only a historic building but has been redeveloped into an affordable housing complex. Photo credit: Wendell Hutson
and today it’s Western Avenue,” said Burris. “You’re not going to find too many black families living pass 87th and Western where suburbs like Evergreen Park and Oak Lawn begin.” Sheryl Gilmore, 49, said she grew up in Auburn Gresham but now lives in Evergreen Park, “and I love it.” The human resource executive said while Evergreen Park is mostly white, there are “a lot of middle-class, black families living here and we all get along just fine regardless of race,” she added. “My church and my job are in Chicago but my heart is suburban life.” Not far from Auburn Gresham is Beverly, which has historically been a mostly white neighborhood. Today, its population is 20,815 residents including 56 percent white, 35 percent black and 5 percent Hispanic, according to
census data. There are very few apartment buildings in Beverly also, which could explain why blacks rarely relocate there, said Madison Carruthers, a Chicago real estate analyst. “Research has shown that crime breeds mostly in neighborhoods saturated with rental units, and homeowners are more likely to report criminal activity and maintain their properties,” said Carruthers. “But renters often do not care about maintaining property they do not own and will not report crimes even if they are a victim themselves.” Other south suburbs have also been transformed since the early 1980s when whites started moving back to Chicago neighborhoods from Markham, Country Club Hills and Flossmoor, which all previously had a
CELEBRATING BLACK HISTORY MONTH
The historic Rosenwald Courts Building has been redeveloped into affordable housing units including some that are market rate units. Photo credit: Wendell Hutson
majority white population, but is now mostly black, according to census data. June Isaac, 81, a Markham resident since 1995 remembers when Markham was mostly white but looks at it now and sees dilapidated homes, run down apartment buildings, vacant lots, closed up businesses and crime running rampant. “I moved to the suburbs from Roseland to escape the gangs, bad public schools and corrupt politicians. And after running away from what I thought were problems behind me, I am now dealing with here in Markham. There’s no glory days here anymore and if I wasn’t old and stubborn, I would gather my things and move back to the city.”
CITIZEN | Hyde Park | Week of Feb. 12, 2020
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ENTERTAINMENT
Dating.com Releases Guide on
“What Not To Do” This Valentine’s Day
Before the most romantic day of the New Year arrives, Dating.com, part of the Dating.com Group and the company behind numerous online dating sites, has released a newly curated guide to navigating Valentine’s Day festivities. These tips alert daters of what not to do in virtually every possible scenario to avoid heartbreak and simultaneously support romantics everywhere in the search for love. “We understand that Valentine’s Day can create a sense of pressure and urgency for people all over the world, regardless if you are looking for love or have already found it,” says Maria Sullivan, vice president and relationship expert of Dating. com. “We’re here to make it easier and provide the public with what they need to know will hurt their chances of having that perfect day, one where everything just feels right.” In an effort to end the last minute frenzy to find plans and the cycle of disappointing dates, Dating.com has tips for those currently single and looking to have a fun and constructive Valentine’s Day. Here’s what not to do to make sure your day goes as smoothly as possible and, hopefully, turn your love life around: l Don’t contact your ex – If anything, let your ex contact you. You do not need to be disappointed by an unenthusiastic conversation or, worse, no answer. Take the day to start a conversation with someone new online – or simply take the day off from dating altogether and try again tomorrow when the pressure of the holiday subsides. l Don’t draw too much attention to the actual holiday – Rather than posting on your social media and trying to make a joke out of how you are alone, leave your followers wondering what you could possibly be up to. Do not broadcast the fact that you are single, instead choose not to comment and remove yourself from the already oversaturated conversation – focus your efforts on choosing the perfect new picture to revamp your dating profile. l Don’t throw or attend a party – Everyone loves a party, but pity parties aren’t ever really as fun. Unless you can find a group of people that is truly interested in having positive and constructive get-together rather than an anti-holiday gathering - we suggest you avoid it. If you are taking the day to try
something new and expand your horizons, first dates are a great way to go. Dating.com finds that women are more open than their counterparts to have a first date on Valentine’s Day – there is a 34% uptick of female users who initiate an offline meeting on February 14. Contrast to popular belief, more men than women are concerned over planning their Valentine’s Day – 19% more men said they like to think ahead about where and who they choose to celebrate with. Here is what not to do when planning a romantic night with your significant other: l Don’t wait until the last minute to plan – Keep in mind that February 14th is one of the hardest days of the year to grab tickets or a reservation, so plan ahead to secure your date spot. l Don’t do the same thing as last year – If you’ve been with your partner for more than one Valentine’s Day already, make sure you plan something special that you’ve never done together before this year. Simply going through the motions is not enough to keep your partner satisfied. l Don’t forget to establish gifting precedents – Before the big day arrives, establish whether or not
Dating.com, part of the Dating.com Group and the company behind numerous online dating sites, has released a newly curated guide to navigating Valentine’s Day festivities.
you want to exchange gifts in order to avoid any awkward one-sided exchanges. Set expectations but remember this: even if your relationship isn’t too focused on material items, this is a great day to make your match feel more special than just any other average day. Members can find everything they are looking for among Dating.com’s extensive, international network of singles. With access to millions of potential matches from more than 32 countries worldwide, members increase their chances of finding someone just in time for Valentine’s Day. To register, visit www.dating.com.
If you are taking the day to try something new and expand your horizons, first dates are a great way to go. Dating.com finds that women are more open than their counterparts to have a first date on Valentine’s Day.
In an effort to end the last minute frenzy to find plans and the cycle of disappointing dates, Dating.com has tips for those currently single and looking to have a fun and constructive Valentine’s Day.
A survey of Dating.com members has uncovered online dating activity and behavioral trends to help breakdown today’s complex dating scene.
CELEBRATING BLACK HISTORY MONTH
10 | CITIZEN | Hyde Park | Week of Feb. 12, 2020
CALENDAR
American Writers Museum Honors Black History Month with Special Programs To celebrate Black History Month, American Writers Museum is presenting guided tours spotlighting the work of the many great Black writers throughout U.S. history, weekly Little Squirrels Storytime dedicated to Black writers, and welcomes Writer Nicholas Buccola who will present his new book, The Fire Is Upon Us. Other leading contemporary Black writers were featured earlier in the month. Frederick Douglass Tours - Modeled after 2019’s popular special exhibit, Frederick Douglass: Agitator, guided tours spotlighting his work will be offered twice daily with special attention paid to the memoirs and speeches of the author and orator who became one of the most eloquent voices of abolitionism. Frederick Douglass’s pens and inkwell are on display in the Tools of the Trade exhibit. Black History Month Storytimes - Every Saturday in February, the weekly Little Squirrels Storytimes will feature three of this country’s most beloved writers: Maya Angelou, Gwendolyn Brooks and Langston Hughes. Families are invited to join the museum’s dedicated and engaging storytellers in their Children’s Literature Gallery to learn more about these writers, listen to their work read aloud, and appreciate their contributions to American writing and our culture. Writer Nicholas Buccola presents
his new book, The Fire Is Upon Us, on February 13 at 6:30 pm. The book shows how the iconic debate between civil rights firebrand James Baldwin and the father of modern conservatism William F. Buckley, Jr. continues to illuminate America’s racial divide. Buccola is joined by photographer Steve Schapiro, who with his camera captured the changing socio-cultural landscape of America during the Sixties. The American Writers Museum is located on 180 N. Michigan Avenue, 2nd Floor in Chicago, IL 60601. It’s open daily from 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. For more information, visit americanwritersmuseum.org
Maya Angelou
Langston Hughes photographed by Carl Van Vechten, 1936
Guided tour of Frederick Douglass’s works during Black History Month at American Writers Museum.
Frederick Douglass
NABSW to hold their 52nd Annual Conference in Detroit, Mich., April 14-18, 2020 The National Association of Black Social Workers (NABSW) invites you to take advantage of the Early Registration for the 52nd Annual Conference, April 14-18, 2020 at the Detroit Marriott – Renaissance Center, Detroit, Michigan. This year’s theme is “Ma’at: African-Centered Values as Practical Healing Tools.”
A personal invitation has been extended to you to take part in a broad array of workshops, institutes and symposiums; as well as celebrate 52 years of advocacy in the interest, development and strengthening of the Black community. This is an educational conference that will feature prominent keynote
speakers, and inspiring and motivational sessions. Instructional workshops will be conducted on practice, social policy and social justice issues that affect the everyday lives and destiny of Black individuals, Black families and Black communities. The conference location is in
Detroit, a comeback city which is on the rise with more than $24 billion invested in its revival. It offers numerous attractions outside of the conference. Conference Early Bird Registration is now open and ends February 21, 2020. NABSW wants to hear your
CELEBRATING BLACK HISTORY MONTH
input as professionals, social work students, and community organizers as they seek to impart African-centered values as practical healing tools. For more information, visit the National Association of Black Social Workers website at www.nabsw.org or call (202) 678-4570.
CITIZEN | Hyde Park | Week of Feb. 12, 2020
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CLASSIFIEDS SERVICE
SERVICE
LEGAL Notice is hereby given, pursuant to “An Act in relation to the use of an Assumed Business Name in the conduct or transaction of Business nt he State,” as amended, that a certification was registered by the undersigned with the County Clerk of Cook County. Registration Nmber: Y2003120 on FEBRUARY 4, 2020 Under the Assumed Business Name of JL EVENTS AND DESIGN with the business located at 8008 S. RHODES AVE, CHICAGO ILLINOIS 60619. The tue and real full name (s) and residence address of the owner (s)/Partner(s) is: OWNER/PARTNER FULL NAME: LESA BEVIL Complete Address: 8008 S. Rhodes Ave., Chicago, Illinois 60619, USA __________________________________
Darrell Garth
President /Publisher
Janice Garth
Sales Manager General Manager
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Serves communities in Harvey, Markham, Phoenix, Robbins, Dixmoor, Calumet Park, Blue Island, South Holland, and Dolton. Shopping- their favorite pastime!
Personal assistant Full-time,
TRAINING/EDUCATION AIRLINE CAREERS FOR NEW YEAR BECOME AN AVIATION MAINTENANCE TECH. FAA APPROVED TRAINING. FINANCIAL AID IF QUALIFIED - JOB PLACEMENT ASSISTANCE. CALL AIM 800-481-8312 __________________________________
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REAL ESTATE HUD/BANK FORECLOSURES CITY & SUBURBS Call: FRED D. CLINK (773) 294-5870 REALTY SERVICES CONSORTIUM _______________________________________ 3+ Bedroom HOMES FOR SALE SELLER FINANCING Call: FRED D. CLINK (773) 294-5870 REALTY SERVICES CONSORTIUM ______________________________________
WANTED TO BUY Paying Cash For Comics! Top national comic buyer will be in your area, paying cash for vintage comics (1970 & earlier). Call Will: 866-461-0640 __________________________________ Freon Wanted: We pay CA$H for cylinders and cans. R12 R500 R11 R113 R114. Convenient. Certified Professionals. Call 312-598-1758 or visit RefrigerantFinders.com __________________________________
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CHICAGO WEEKEND
Chicago Westside Communities, Austin and Garfield Park
RESTORING YOUR CREDIT SCORE STARTS WITH YOU. . . CALL YOUR CREDIT MAINTENANCE GURU REPRESENTATIVE MR. FREDRICK TODAY AT CREDIT RESTORATION SERVICES AT (218) 833-3769 9:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m Monday thru. Friday DON’T HESITATE TO CALL US FOR A FAST AND FREINDLY REPAIR. LEAVE THE WORK TO US. WE CAN DO THE JOB. WE WORK TO CLEAN UP YOUR CREDIT SCORE WITH THE ALL THREE MAJOR CREDIT BUREAUS. _______________________________________
SUBURBAN TIMES WEEKLY Bloom Township, Chicago Heights, Flossmoor, Ford Heights, Glenwood, Homewood, Lansing ,Lynwood, Olympia Fileds, Park Forest, Sauk Village, South Chicago and Steger
Citizen Newspaper Group Inc., (CNGI), Publisher of the Chatham-Southeast, South End, Chicago Weekend, South Suburban and Hyde Park Citizen and Citizen Suburban Times Weekly. Our weekly publications are published on Wednesday’s (publishing 52 issues annually). Written permission is required to reproduce contents in whole or in part from the publisher. Citizen Newspaper Group, Inc. does not assume the responsibility for nor are we able to return unsolicited materials, therefore they become property of the newspaper and can or will be discarded or used at the newspapers disgratation. Deadlines for advertising is every Friday at noon. Deadlines for press releases are Thursdays at 10 am prior to the next week’s edition. Please send information for the calendar at least three weeks prior to the event. Send to: editorial@citizennewspapergroup.com. For more information on subscriptions or advertising, call us at (773) 783-1251 or fax (872) 208-8793. Our offices are located at 8741 South Greenwood Suite# 107, Chicago, Illinois 60619.
12 | CITIZEN | Hyde Park | Week of Feb. 12, 2020
“It’s About You, It’s About Me, It’s Actually All About Us… We should celebrate our history
“24/7-365”