Y O U R S O U R C E F O R C O R O N AV I R U S N E W S
Citizen The Citizen: Serving The Black Community For 55 Years Week of Dec. 16, 2020
| Vol. 32 | No. 4 | www.citizennewspapergroup.com
HYDE PARK
New Report Documents Impact of COVID-19 on Black LGBTIQ People Globally Page 3
Condos Are Selling for a Record 17% Discount to Single-Family Homes Page 4
Two Fish, owned and operated by Yasmin Curtis, is expanding its brand to offer its seafood boil in a bag in the frozen food section at Mariano’s. Photo courtesy of Yasmin Curtis
7 Tips for Hosting a Virtual Holiday Cookie Exchange Page 6
TWO FISH CRAB SHACK EXPANDS INTO FROZEN FOOD SECTION Two Fish Crab Shack, located at 641 E. 47th St., opened more than 4 years ago as a restaurant where people could get their seafood boil in a bag fix. PAGE 2
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NEWS briefly EDUCATION INTERDISCIPLINARY PARTNERSHIP SUPPORTS DIVERSITY IN EDUCATION AND ASSESSMENT RESEARCH Curriculum Associates and North Carolina A&T State University have formed an interdisciplinary partnership to support diversity in the education and assessment research fields. Through a number of initiatives, the two organizations will engage in collaborative research aimed in part at eliminating testing biases in the classroom for Black and Brown students, expose university students to a spectrum of opportunities in education and research, train teachers and practitioners to become a part of the test writing and assessment process, provide scholarship support to lessen the debt burden of aspiring and existing scholars, and more. Curriculum Associates will specifically support the university’s Innovation in Education initiative focused on providing transformative learning opportunities and delivering and sustaining academic breakthroughs. This will include faculty and student research grants that will provide resources to safeguard and enhance the quality of education for students while simultaneously assisting the university’s efforts to perform research surrounding education’s most pressing needs, including eliminating testing biases for historically marginalized groups in the classroom.
HEALTH
BYRON ALLEN AND DR. ANTHONY FAUCI TALK COVID-19 IMPACT ON THE AFRICAN-AMERICAN COMMUNITY Founder/Chairman/CEO of Allen Media Group, Byron Allen, recently sat with Dr. Anthony S. Fauci, M.D., director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, for a conversation about COVID-19’s devastating impact on the African-American community. Hosted exclusively on Allen Media Group’s digital news platform/network, theGrio, the video interview featured Allen and Fauci unpacking community skepticism about vaccines, and how to reduce the spread of COVID-19. Allen calls Fauci an “American hero” and praises him for his efforts to keep Americans safe. Allen even offered to provide Fauci and his family use of a COVID-safe private jet for a vacation as an expression of gratitude for all of Dr. Fauci’s dedication and hard work. Dr. Fauci graciously declined Allen’s generous gesture as he is a federal government employee and not allowed to accept such gifts.
LAW & POLITICS
FTC RETURNS ALMOST $775,000 TO CONSUMERS WHO PURCHASED DECEPTIVELY ADVERTISED ARTHRITIS AND JOINT PAIN RELIEF SUPPLEMENT SYNOVIA FROM A.S. RESEARCH, LLC The Federal Trade Commission is sending checks totaling $774,755 to 13,221 consumers who bought Synovia, a supplement advertised and sold by A.S. Research, LLC as a treatment for arthritis and joint pain. The average refund amount is $58.60 per consumer. According to the FTC’s complaint, A.S. Research made misleading health claims and used phony testimonials, including one in which a user said he “gave away his walker” after using the supplement. The FTC also alleged that the defendants told consumers they had to pay extra for a version of Synovia containing an ingredient added to increase pain relief and speed joint repair, when in fact all purchasers received that product. The order settling the FTC’s allegations prohibits the defendants from misrepresenting the results of any scientific study or endorsement and requires them to disclose any material connections they have with endorsers. It also required the company to pay $821,000 to the Commission for consumer refunds. Refund recipients should deposit or cash checks within 60 days, as indicated on the check. The FTC never requires consumers to pay money or provide account information to cash refund checks. Consumers who bought Synovia, but who don’t receive a check, may contact the refund administrator, JND Legal Administration, at 833-707-1185.
Two Fish Crab Shack expands into frozen food section Continued from page 1 BY TIA CAROL JONES
Two Fish Crab Shack, located at 641 E. 47th St., opened more than 4 years ago as a restaurant where people could get their seafood boil in a bag fix. People liked the sauce so much that owner Yasmin Curtis made it available online for purchase. Now, people who want Two Fish can get the seafood in a bag, in the frozen food section. Curtis said at her core, she is all about economic development and philanthropy. She owned a restaurant and bar, where they did Seafood Fridays. It was where the seafood boil concept was born. There was not a seafood boil restaurant in the Hyde Park/ Kenwood/Oakland/Bronzeville area, so it was a new concept for the area. “The development of the area is rising, so we need more restaurants, we need more places to go,” she said. Curtis said they started with crab legs with different seasonings, like Jerk seasoning. She said the jerk became a hit. She said they created their own recipes. “People just took to it. I grabbed a couple of friends who had travelled all over and told them, ‘just taste it and tell me what you think.’ And, people did, and they loved it,” she said.
People can choose from lobster tails, whole lobster, snow crab legs, Alaskan crab legs, catfish and perch. They also have chicken. Curtis said the most popular item is the seafood boil in a bag. The most popular seasoning is the 3 the Chi Way, which is the house seasoning. People can purchase 3 the Chi Way and it ships nationwide. “People are ordering it online in different geographical areas, like Florida. I’ve had some people ordering it from as far Portland, Oregon and as far as California that are ordering the seasoning from us,” she said. Curtis said she loved ridiculously spicy food, so she likes the shrimp, with 3 the Chi Way I’m on Fire, it’s the hottest level. She said she loves it. As a native of the area, Curtis said she chose the location because it is close to where she lives adding, she has never been a fan of travelling far to work. “I like being in a neighborhood that serves the community and that I am serving,” she said. In the last couple of years, there has been more of a push to support more Black women-owned businesses, she continued. Curtis said the Two Fish seafood boil in a bag is packaged so that people can have it whenever they are ready. It will be available at Mariano’s. Curtis
said she is always trying to figure something out. During CoVID-19, some customers expressed hesitation about coming to the restaurant or even getting takeout from a restaurant. “We still wanted our customers to be able to enjoy Two Fish. Everybody has to go to the grocery store,” she said. “I have to make sure I am able to reach people. The concept just kind of developed, it developed more during COVID.” Curtis said COVID-19 has made it so the human contact has been taken away. She said she loves the restaurant, and she misses her customers, and that interaction. “COVID has made me appreciate people more because people need more people. It has made me appreciate people more and made us more conscious of other people,” she said. Curtis said small businesses and restaurants are the heart of the community and it is important to support them because they employ people from the community. “It’s one of the most important things you can do is support a local small business or restaurant. So, they can continue to employ the people in the community. So, that when we are on the other side of this, we will still have some of those businesses,” she said. To order food from Two Fish, visit www.twofishcrabshack.com.
United Raises Miles for Dozens of Non-Profits that Rely on Travel United recently invited MileagePlus members to give back on Giving Tuesday, but also throughout the holiday season by donating miles to nearly 40 non-profits through United Airline’s crowdsourcing platform, Miles on a Mission. Non-profits like Thurgood Marshall College Fund, College to Congress and Compass to Care are attempting to raise a total of more than 11 million miles to be used for travel for life-saving health care, continued education, humanitarian aid and more. United will match the first 125,000 miles raised for each of these organizations to help ensure they meet their goals. The launch of these campaigns is part of United’s ongoing Miles on a Mission program, which began in October 2019 and has raised more than 92 million miles to-date. Past campaigns have helped organizations travel children for life-saving medical treatment and unite
parents with newly adopted children from foreign countries. Participating non-profits have 28-days to reach their mile raising goals through the platform. The organizations that are raising miles in this campaign include: l College to Congress: The organization provides support including travel for disadvantaged college students who otherwise could not afford to intern in Washington, D.C. l Thurgood Marshall College Fund: This is the only national organization representing America’s 47 publicly-supported Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs), and the nearly 300,000 students that attend them each year. The miles raised will cover the travel expenses to and from campus for students unable to afford them. l My Block, My Hood, My City: This organization provides underprivileged youth with an awareness of
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the world and opportunities beyond their neighborhood. Miles will be used to fund educational trips for Chicago youths to help them gain a greater understanding of the world outside of their comfort zones. l Compass to Care: The non-profit ensures all children, whose parents have a financial need, can access life-saving cancer treatment. Compass to Care is raising miles to fund travel to get children from their homes to hospitals for cancer treatment. l Luke’s Wings: This organization is dedicated to the support of service members who have been wounded in battle. Raised miles will be used to purchase plane tickets for families to visit wounded soldiers recovering in Army medical centers. l Rainbow Railroad USA: The organization’s mission is to help persecuted LGBTQI+ individuals around the world travel to safety as they seek a haven
from persecution. Miles will support the organization’s core Emergency Travel Support program. This year, United’s legal partner Kirkland & Ellis will also be donating $50,000 to My Block, My Hood, My City and the Thurgood Marshall College Fund. Other organizations launching campaigns on the platform include: Sisters of the Skies, Inc., Up2Us Sports, Airline Ambassadors International, Austin Smiles, AWS Foundation, Crazy Horse Memorial, FLYTE, Higher Orbits, Lily’s Hope Foundation, Miles4Migrants, Support Utila Inc. and Watts of Love. MileagePlus members can also donate to United’s 20 other existing partner charities including, Airlink, American Red Cross, Make-A-Wish, Shriners Hospitals; Clean the World, Special Olympics and more. To learn more or donate to these organizations, please visit donate.mileageplus. com.
CITIZEN | Hyde Park | Week of Dec. 16, 2020
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NEWS Employers Stand to Save an Average of $8,500 for Supporting Each Employee in Recovery from a Substance Use Disorder
IN THIS REPORT, GBGMC OFFERED SOME SPECIFIC RECOMMENDATIONS ON ACTIONS THAT LOCAL/NATIONAL GOVERNMENT, THE UN, WHO, INTERNATIONAL DONOR AGENCIES AND THE PRIVATE SECTOR CAN TAKE TO ADDRESS THE DRASTIC IMPACT THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC IS HAVING ON BLACK LGBTQI PEOPLE.
Global Black Gay Men Connect (GBGMC) has released “The Impact of COVID-19 on Black LGBTQI People,” GBGMC’s inaugural report on the drastic impact COVID-19 is having on Black LGBTQI people globally.
New Report Documents Impact of COVID-19 on Black LGBTIQ People Globally Global Black Gay Men Connect (GBGMC) has released “The Impact of COVID-19 on Black LGBTQI People,” GBGMC’s inaugural report on the drastic impact COVID-19 is having on Black LGBTQI people globally. Between April and May of this year, GBGMC, in partnership with UHIA ESHIRI, launched a global survey targeting Black LGBT organizations and individuals across the globe. This report documents the results of the survey that shows the drastic impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on LGBTIQ people globally. As reported by the recently published report by Outright Action International, on their latest report titled “Vulnerability Amplified,” LGBTQ people across the globe are being impacted by the virus; In this report, GBGMC sought to gather specific data on how Black LGBTQ people across the world are affected and coping with the COVID-19 pandemic. As the world has now moved into the second wave of COVID-19, GBGMC’s hope is that this report offers some urgent lessons and recommendations in order to combat the impact of the imminent lock down due to COVID-19.
The report indicates a looming exacerbation of discrimination, devastating economic impact, risk of losing access to life-saving health care, and the marginalization of Black LGBTQ people. There is an urgent need for government, international donors, UN agencies, the public sector, and the general public to come together and make sure that Black LGBTQ people, all LGBTQ people, are included and provided specific relief funds to mitigate the economic and health impacts the pandemic has and will worsen if not addressed. In this report, GBGMC offered some specific recommendations on actions that local/national government, the UN, WHO, international donor agencies and the private sector can take to address the drastic impact the COVID-19 pandemic is having on Black LGBTQI people. 2020 has demonstrated the importance of investing in community structures and longtime support for community organizations. Download the report here: https:// www.gbgmc.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/IMPACT-OF-COVID19-on-Black-LGBTQI-People.pdf
As substance use disorders across the country rise, so do the potential costs to employers if they ignore the issue, but addressing it can lead to significant savings. According to new research released recently, the annual average additional costs to an employer for each worker with an untreated substance use disorder (SUD) have risen 30% in just three years. Employers spend an average of $8,817 annually on each employee with an untreated SUD, according to the findings from NORC at the University of Chicago and the National Safety Council (NSC). Encouragingly, each employee who recovers from a SUD saves a company over $8,500 on average, according to the analysis – and employer-initiated treatment is more successful than treatment initiated by friends or family members. Additionally, the analysis shows that workers in recovery miss 13.7 fewer days each year than workers with an untreated SUD, and 3.6 less days than an average employee. Workers who are actively in recovery help employers avoid $8,175 in turnover, replacement and healthcare costs. To help employers understand how substance misuse impacts their bottom lines – and what they can save by addressing it – NSC and NORC at the University of Chicago have updated the Substance Use Cost Calculator, funded by Nationwide, with the new data and analysis. Originally released in 2017, the interactive tool allows businesses to input basic statistics about their workforce, such as industry, location and number of employees. The results show estimated prevalence of substance use disorders among employees and their dependents, associated costs and potential savings if employees and their family members obtain treatment for their substance use disorders. “Business leaders are facing unprecedented challenges brought on by the pandemic, and an influx of substance use disorders is among the most pressing,” said Lorraine M. Martin, president and CEO of the National Safety Council. “We hope the Substance Use Cost Calculator will show in plain terms the costs of doing nothing versus the costs of addressing addiction head-on. Our national recovery from the pandemic depends on employers
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PRNewsfoto/National Safety Council
One in 12 workers has an untreated substance use disorder. Even industries with lower rates, such as public administration and protective services, have an average rate of 6% of employees with SUDs in their workforce. l Construction, mining and service occupations have the highest rates of alcohol and other drug use disorders – and jobs in these industries are often safety-sensitive positions. Education, healthcare, and professional and protective services jobs have the lowest. l Jobs with a large percentage of male employees – and in many cases, younger men – have higher rates of substance use disorder. In the construction field, for instance, 19% of workers (one in five) have a substance use disorder. l As was the case in 2017 when NORC and NSC initially released the Substance Use Cost Calculator, industries with higher numbers of workers with alcohol use disorders also have more illicit drug, pain medication and marijuana use disorders. l Workers in recovery tend to be strong employees. They take approximately eight days off each year compared to the average 11.6 days off taken annually by workers without substance use disorders. Workers in recovery also tend to stay in jobs longer, are less likely to be hospitalized, and have fewer primary care visits. l According to the analysis, the average employer pays $2,918 in health insurance premiums or self-pay annually for workers without substance use disorders. For those with substance use disorders, those costs are approximately $4,770 per worker, and $3,961 per worker in recovery. Developed through scientific analysis, the Substance Use Cost Calculator provides the individual costs of alcohol, prescription pain medication, marijuana and illicit drug use, and is broken down by industry and number of employees. The cost calculator is available at nsc.org/drugsatwork. NSC has also created the Opioids at Work Employer Toolkit to help employers implement policies for addressing substance misuse in the workplace. To download the free toolkit, go here: https://cloud.safe.nsc.org/ rxemployerkit l
playing a robust role. Ensuring they address substance misuse is among the most significant way they can assist, not to mention one of the greatest ways they can directly support their employees, who are fueling our nation.” “What employers do can save lives,” said Tracy McPherson, senior research scientist in the Public Health department at NORC at the University of Chicago. “This tool, developed in a partnership between NSC and NORC, clearly shows that employers benefit when workers with a substance use problem get treated for this illness. Untreated, substance use is a risk for workers, their families, and their employers.” “The updated Substance Use Cost Calculator is an invaluable tool that helps businesses like ours develop a more tangible understanding of how addiction impacts the workplace,” said Tina Thornton, Nationwide’s leader of associate health and wellbeing. “We’ve been using this tool to help us not only come to realize the impact of addiction at work, but also to recognize the appropriate resources we need to bring to our affected associates and their families to help them move toward recovery.” The nation’s sobriety has been an unwitting casualty of COVID-19. More than forty states have reported increases in substance misuse and opioid-related overdoses as people grapple with stress and mental health issues brought on or exacerbated by the pandemic. Additionally, while employers have struggled with workplace safety in the U.S., there is another issue to prioritize as they grapple with new working conditions, environments and procedures: their policies around substance misuse and programs to support employees who may have developed addictions, which cost society more than $696 billion annually. Seventy percent of adults struggling with a substance use disorder are in the workforce, although adults with substance use disorders are more likely to be unemployed, according to the analysis. Other findings from the analysis include:
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BUSINESS
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Ideabar Awards $250K of In-Kind Services to The King Center through Empowering Equality Marketing Program The Martin Luther King, Jr. Center for Nonviolent Social Change (The King Center) has been awarded $250,000 of in-kind marketing services through “Empowering Equality,” a marketing program sponsored by Ideabar, a national marketing and media agency and Cox Enterprises company. The King Center will receive a customizable scope of services, which could include research, brand development, a creative campaign, collateral design, website development and strategic business consulting. “Awarding in-kind services through the Empowering Equality marketing program is one way our agency can take meaningful action to address racial inequality,” says Ideabar Managing Director Amy Royster Bridger. “We look forward to collaborating with The King Center on a powerful marketing program that advances their mission to prepare global citizens to create a more just, humane and peaceful world using Dr. King’s nonviolent philosophy and methodology.” The King Center was selected from 10 finalists. The remaining nine organizations will receive a full-page print ad valued at up to $9,500 in The Atlanta Journal-Constitution to amplify the message of their choice in 2021. The nine finalists include Atlanta Wealth Building Initiative, Boys & Girls Club of Metro Atlanta, Cristo Rey Jesuit High School, Cxmmunity, National Center for Civil & Human Rights, Partnership for Southern Equity, Urban League of Greater Atlanta, West Atlanta Watershed Alliance and YWCA of Greater Atlanta.
The judges evaluated the submissions on the following criteria: l Advances racial equality and social justice to create a more equitable society by addressing systemic racial discrimination in areas such as education, employment, criminal justice, the environment, healthcare, voting, etc. (33.4%). l Articulates a powerful story of how the organization advances racial justice and social justice that can be amplified through the program’s in-kind marketing services (33.3%). l Is led by a racially/ethnically diverse executive leadership team and/or board (33.33%). A final score based on evaluations by Ideabar employees, the panel of official judges and the results of the online community vote determined the winner. The King Center, established in 1968 by Coretta Scott King, has been a global destination, resource center and community institution for more than a quarter century. The King Center is dedicated to ensuring that the King legacy not only remains relevant and viable, but is effectively leveraged for positive social impact. Ideabar awarded its 2019 pro bono marketing program open to nonprofits in Palm Beach County, Florida to Loggerhead Marinelife Center, a world-renowned sea turtle hospital in Juno Beach, Florida. Ideabar awarded its 2020 pro bono marketing program open to Metro Atlanta environmental nonprofits to Chattahoochee Riverkeeper. For more information, visit www.ideabar.agency.
The King Center, established in 1968 by Coretta Scott King, has been a global destination, resource center and community institution for more than a quarter century. The King Center is dedicated to ensuring that the King legacy not only remains relevant and viable, but is effectively leveraged for positive social impact. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. (pictured) gave his most famous speech, “I Have a Dream,” before the Lincoln Memorial during the 1963 March on Washington for Jobs and Freedom.
Condos Are Selling for a Record 17% Discount to Single-Family Homes as the Coronavirus Fuels Demand for Space The typical single-family home that sold in the U.S. this year was purchased for an average of 17.3% more ($58,000) than the typical condo, according to a new report from Redfin (www.redfin.com), the technology-powered real estate brokerage. That’s up from 15.4% last year and represents the largest premium since at least 2013, when Redfin began recording this data. The U.S. housing market has been on fire this year, with record-low mortgage rates and remote work prompting scores of Americans to relocate. But the condo market has missed out on much of the gains as homebuyers have left dense cities in search of more space and privacy— AKA single-family homes—during the coronavirus pandemic. The median sale price of singlefamily homes surged 15.5% year over year in October, outpacing the condo market’s 9.9% growth. Condos are also taking longer to sell—the typical condo spent 36 days on the market last month, compared with 27 days for the typical single-family home. And less than a quarter (22.8%) of condos sold for more than their listing price, compared with 36.6% of single-family homes. Purchases of condos, however, have been catching up. “Condos
THE U.S. HOUSING MARKET HAS BEEN ON FIRE THIS YEAR, WITH RECORD-LOW MORTGAGE RATES AND REMOTE WORK PROMPTING SCORES OF AMERICANS TO RELOCATE. BUT THE CONDO MARKET HAS MISSED OUT ON MUCH OF THE GAINS AS HOMEBUYERS HAVE LEFT DENSE CITIES IN SEARCH OF MORE SPACE AND PRIVACY—AKA SINGLE-FAMILY HOMES— DURING THE CORONAVIRUS PANDEMIC.
The median sale price of single-family homes surged 15.5% year over year in October, outpacing the condo market’s 9.9% growth.
sales are rebounding because buyers are finding great deals,” said Redfin Chief Economist Daryl Fairweather. “Families are fleeing cities in search of more space in the suburbs, which has presented an opportunity for millennials who are looking to become homeowners but don’t need extra bedrooms or a backyard.” Florida and California Rank at the Top of the List When It Comes to Price Premiums for Single-Family Homes In the Fort Lauderdale, FL metropolitan area, single-family homes
sold for an average of 38.3% more than condos in October—the largest premium of the 86 metros in this analysis. It was followed by Bakersfield, CA, with a 35.8% premium, and Lakeland, FL, at 34.3%. Oklahoma City, OK and Tucson, AZ rounded out the top five, both at 30.3%. In the Seattle metro, where singlefamily homes are selling for a 17.9% premium, condos are taking several months to sell rather than the usual couple of weeks, according Forrest Moody, a local real estate agent at Redfin. www.citizennewspapergroup.com
“Before the pandemic, it was challenging to find a condo in Seattle for less than $500,000, but now there are plenty selling for under $400,000. The people who are buying condos now are the people who couldn’t afford to buy one a couple of years ago because prices were so high,” he said. “I recently sold a condo that was within walking distance of Amazon’s headquarters for $510,000. Condos in that building normally go for $550,000 and up.” There were just three metro areas where single-family homes sold for less than condos in October. San Antonio saw the biggest gap, with singlefamily homes going for 12.9% less than condos, followed by Omaha, NE (-6.2%) and Salt Lake City (-1.7%). In San Antonio, there’s been a resurgence of high-end condos in the downtown area, according to Jim Seifert, a local real estate agent at Redfin. “There are more people buying
condos in San Antonio than I’ve ever seen before,” Seifert said. “Young people who work in tech and healthcare are moving here from Seattle, California, Washington, D.C. and Maryland because San Antonio is so much more affordable, and they have a bigger appreciation for downtown living than the average person from Texas.” Seifert continued: “San Antonio’s condo market is also likely being fueled by the fact that buyers know they can get in. There’s a shortage of single-family homes for sale, but the supply of condos is growing like wildfire, so some folks are opting for condos because they don’t want to deal with a bidding war.” To read the full report, including methodology and a full list of singlefamily home price premiums across major U.S. metro areas, please visit: https://www.redfin.com/news/singlefamily-home-premium-condo.
CITIZEN | Hyde Park | Week of Dec. 16, 2020
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ENTERTAINMENT (RED) And Mavin Records Announce Partnership With New Single And Remix Competition On World AIDS Day, Africa’s most influential record label, Mavin Records, and (RED) joined forces to fight two pandemics: AIDS and COVID-19. Launched recently, the remix of the hit single “Jaiye” by Mavin Artist LADIPOE, features Aluna and Sigag Lauren, is available to stream and download worldwide, with proceeds going to support (RED)’s efforts to mitigate the impact of COVID-19 on lifesaving HIV/AIDS programs in sub-Saharan Africa. Doubling the impact, funds raised from every stream of the single will be matched by the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, up to $10,000. The special “Jaiye” remix is a teaser to the Afrobeats-inspired DANCE (RED) SAVE LIVES Vol. III album that will be available on streaming services worldwide in early 2021. LISTEN TO LADIPOE’S “JAIYE” REMIXED BY ALUNA AND SIGAG LAUREN [GO HERE: https://lnk.to/jaiye-remix “With everything that’s gone on in the world this year, we wanted to share a message of hope. Yes, things are tough, but it’s important for us to appreciate the good times and to enjoy and celebrate with the people around us,” said Don Jazzy, founder and president, Mavin Records. “In Africa, even in times of pain and uncertainty, music is a uniting force. I’m proud that we can use it to bring some lightness and
support an important cause at the same time,” Don Jazzy continued. To coincide with the single release, Mavin Records and (RED) are offering Afrobeats fans the chance to be featured on the upcoming DANCE (RED) SAVE LIVES Vol. III by hosting a remix contest of LADIPOE’s, “Jaiye (Time of Our Lives).” To enter, anyone can download the track and post their remix of “Jaiye” to Instagram Reels using the hashtag #mavinRED. Submissions will be accepted now through January 7, with the best remix chosen by Don Jazzy, Aluna, LADIPOE, Johnny Drille, and Mavin Records A&R Director, Rima Tahini. TO DOWNLOAD THE TRACK & SHARE YOUR REMIX ON INSTAGRAM REELS USING #MavinRED - NOW THROUGH JANUARY 7, 2021, GO HERE: https:// mavinred.org Mavin and (RED) have partnered because COVID-19 is threatening to derail critical progress made in the AIDS fight. COVID-19 could cause AIDS-related deaths to double in the coming year as health and community systems are overwhelmed, treatment and prevention programs are disrupted, and resources are diverted throughout sub-Saharan Africa. “We are proud that our biggest African
collaboration to date is with the incredible artists of Mavin Records and worldrenowned producer Don Jazzy. While times may be difficult, they have chosen to harness the power of music to help (RED) in our fight against AIDS and COVID-19. Our goal for this partnership is to have a significant impact on the global health systems that are in need of urgent support,” said Jennifer Lotito, (RED) president and chief operating officer. The upcoming DANCE (RED) SAVE LIVES Vol. III will be curated by the legendary Afrobeats producer, Don Jazzy, and musical artist, Aluna. It will feature tracks by leading hitmakers and Mavin artists including Rema, Johnny Drille, and Crayon, and remixed by world-renowned DJs and producers including Don Jazzy himself. Proceeds from the album will go directly to the Global Fund’s COVID-19 Response in sub-Saharan Africa. “Being a part of a project like this is incredible because it gives me the opportunity to showcase that dance music is black, which is something I’ve been discussing in the dance community and at the same time raise money for HIV and COVID-19. This project is going to bring people from all over the world together with dance music, which is what it was invented for, but for a long time has
just been about the white dance community exclusively. That’s gonna change and this project will show people how it’s done,” said Aluna, artist and co-curator of DANCE (RED) SAVE LIVES Vol. III. Both the single and the DANCE (RED) SAVE LIVES Vol. III album artwork were created by the Brooklyn-based Nigerian performance and visual artist, Laolu Senbanjo. “I have developed a warm history with (RED) over time and I’m glad to be working with them again on a cause that’s affected all of humanity in such a visceral fashion. Despite the fact that the Coronavirus pandemic has aggressively unleashed itself on the world and claimed many casualties, it has also been another opportunity for humans to show how resilient we are,” Laolu said. “It takes us coming together in unison to fight against such disease just like we did with HIV/AIDS. Organizations such as (RED) make it that much easier to do so with their remarkable programs. I’m happy to play a role that supports their laudable efforts.” *For the official Crowdsourcing Competition Terms & Conditions, GO HERE: https:// mavinred.org/terms. Must be 18 years or older to apply. Enter by January 7th at 11:59 PM PST. No purchase necessary.
Mariah Carey’s “All I Want For Christmas Is You” Gifts Much-Needed Holiday Cheer As #1 ASCAP Holiday Song In 2020 The holidays might look a little different this year, but The American Society of Composers, Authors and Publishers (ASCAP)’s top seasonal songs are bringing much-needed comfort and cheer to listeners at home. With holiday music taking over the radio waves earlier than ever, ASCAP, a professional membership organization of songwriters, composers and music publishers, has announced the Top 25 ASCAP Holiday Songs of 2020 – a soundtrack to celebrate the most wonderful time of the year. Mariah Carey’s “All I Want for Christmas Is You” (written by Carey and her fellow ASCAP songwriter Walter Afanasieff; published by Universal Music Group
Publishing, Sony/ATV, Kobalt Music, Tamal Vista Music) takes the #1 spot as the mostplayed holiday hit, according to an ASCAP analysis of streaming and terrestrial radio data. Holiday music fans have made the joyous tune more popular every year; it consistently tops the Billboard Holiday 100 Chart and last year became the first holiday song to hit #1 on the Billboard Hot 100 since 1958. Popularly dubbed the “Queen of Christmas,” Carey shared a special holiday message to fans about the song on @ ASCAP on Instagram, saying “I’m deeply grateful… and just so thankful that it is still bringing joy to so many people around the world and I know that we need that more than ever right now.”
“It’s never too early for holiday music. And now more than ever, the world needs to be reminded of the hopeful spirit of the season and the cherished memories that these classic songs inspire,” said ASCAP Chairman of the Board and President Paul Williams. “It is a true joy to celebrate the talented songwriters behind the music keeping the holiday season bright in these trying times.” Below are the top 25 most played ASCAP holiday songs of 2020*, all written or co-written by ASCAP songwriters and composers. Each song lists ASCAP songwriter credits and copyright date. 1. “All I Want for Christmas Is You” by Mariah Carey and Walter Afanasieff (1994)
2. “It’s Beginning to Look a Lot Like Christmas” by Meredith Willson (1951) 3. “A Holly Jolly Christmas” by Johnny Marks (1962) 4. “Sleigh Ride” by Leroy Anderson and Mitchell Parish (1948) 5. “Let It Snow, Let It Snow, Let It Snow” by Sammy Cahn and Jule Styne (1945) 6. “Jingle Bell Rock” by Joseph Carleton Beal and James Ross Boothe (1958) 7. “Rockin’ Around the Christmas Tree” by Johnny Marks (1958) 8. “Last Christmas” by George Michael (1984) 9. “It’s the Most Wonderful Time of the Year” by Edward Pola and George Wyle (1963) 10. “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas” by Ralph Blane and Hugh Martin
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(1944) 11. “Winter Wonderland” by Felix Bernard and Richard B. Smith (1934) 12. “Santa Claus Is Comin’ to Town” by Fred Coots and Haven Gillespie (1934) 13. “White Christmas” by Irving Berlin (1941) 14. “Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer” by Johnny Marks (1949) 15. “The Christmas Song” by Mel Tormé and Robert Wells (1946) 16. “Here Comes Santa Claus (Down Santa Claus Lane)” by Oakley Haldeman and Gene Autry (1947) 17. “Home for the Holidays” by Robert Allen and Al Stillman (1954) 18. “Feliz Navidad” by Jose Feliciano (1970) 19. “Happy Holiday/The
Holiday Season” by Kay Tompson and Irving Berlin (1942) 20. “Santa Baby” by Joan Javits, Anthony Springer and Philip Springer (1953) 21. “Frosty the Snowman” by Steve Nelson and Walter E. Rollins (1950) 22. “Jingle Bells” by James Lord Pierpont; Frank Sinatra version arranged by Gordon Jenkins (ASCAP, 1958) 23. “Underneath the Tree” by Kelly Clarkson and Greg Kurstin (2013) 24. “You’re a Mean One, Mr. Grinch” by Dr. Seuss and Albert Hague (1966) 25. “Santa Tell Me” by Ariana Grande and Savan Kotecha (2013) *Based on an analysis of ASCAP streaming and terrestrial radio data
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NEWS
7 Tips for Hosting a Virtual Holiday Cookie Exchange StatePoint - It may take a little extra time and creativity, but a holiday cookie exchange can be held virtually and it’s worth the effort according to experts. “There’s a famous quote, ‘If you do what you love, you’ll never work a day in your life.’ It’s so true for me as I find great joy in developing easy, flavorful recipes,” says Cindy Gilbert, McCormick Test Kitchen chef. “My friends have come to me for years requesting tips and tricks, and over 20 years ago, they anointed me the annual holiday cookie exchange leader. This past year has been challenging, but I knew I wanted to keep the tradition alive while following social distancing guidelines.” Here are Gilbert’s top seven tips on hosting your own virtual cookie exchange, along with her favorite delicious McCormick cookie picks. 1. Keep the virtual guest list small and local. Your family and friends’ safety is the most important thing, and no one wants to bake a ton of cookies. Aim for five to 10 people. Gingerbread Men Cookies – No winter holiday is complete without
Lemon extract adds a bright citrus flavor to this easy four-ingredient treat that starts with store-bought sugar cookies. 4. Arrange the exchange. About an hour before the virtual get-together, set up a table outside, in a cul-de-sac or school parking lot. Everyone can take turns grabbing their cookies quickly and safely. Or, arrange no contact porch drop-offs during a set time. Holiday Meringue Cookies – These deliciously airy, light, and low-fat meringue cookies are the perfect confection for any holiday celebration. AddRegion: your favorite food Client: ComEd Bleed: US Cindy Gilbert, McCormick Test Kitchen chef, shares her top seven tips on Print SECOND ROUND along with her favorite Trim: 10”delicious x 6.5” Language: coloring for a festive twist.English hosting Campaign: your ownOOH virtual cookie exchange, Agency Job #: B1241-021281-00 Live: None 5. Request theNotes: recipes. Ask guests McCormick cookie picks. AD #/AD ID: QEXL1054000 to provide a recipe card in their indiDate Modified: December 2, 2020 2:29 PM Keyline Scale: 100% CR: men. They’re cute and tioners’ sugar, andOutput the deep gingerbread at: chocovidual packages, or as the host, you AD Round: late, red color andPage: taste, add up to a can be decorated with raisins, cinnacan compile the recipes and share cookie you’ll be proud to share. mon red-hot candies or royal icing. through email. NOT TO BE USED FOR COLOR APPROVAL 3. Package cookies in sepa2. Invite cookie enthusiasts. Invite Double Ginger Gingersnaps –A rate portions. Ask participants to people who enjoy being in the kitchpersonal favorite of Gilbert’s, these ACD: A. Del Valle CD: G. Apfelbach PC: M. Bilbrey / R. Swift P: C. Capola AM: L. Mitchell BM: E. Schmidt package each serving in individual en and welcome sharing their recipe are a ginger lover’s dream! Ground containers or resealable bags of six secrets! Tell them they’re going to be ginger and crystallized ginger make sharing the story behind their choice. cookies per serving. the flavor pop on these cookies, Easy Lemon Cookie Truffles – Red Velvet Crinkle Cookies – This which are crispy on the outside and tasty recipe crinkles from the confec- This is a perfect no-bake option. chewy inside.
6. Share stories via video conference. Many guests like to tell the stories behind their cookies. By scheduling time to connect, you’ll likely hear some heartwarming or hilarious anecdotes and maybe even some helpful tidbits. Sugar Cookie Thumbprints with Spiced Jam – Inspired by a bakery treat, this holiday twist on a classic uses cinnamon or ginger-spiced jam. 7. Have fun. Take time to ask how everyone has been and give them a chance to share what other traditions they’re planning this year. While the party is about cookies, it’s also about connecting, having fun and picking up a few new recipes to try. Pecan Cookie Balls – These buttery melt-in-your-mouth cookies, also known as Mexican Wedding Cakes, make a great addition to any holiday cookie exchange. Find these recipes and more by visiting McCormick.com/CookieExchange. With a little creativity and the perfect cookie recipe, you can reinvent your favorite baking traditions for a safe and festive holiday season.
POWERING NEIGHBORS. EMPOWERING COMMUNITIES.
We power a city of neighborhoods. Whether through charitable contributions or sponsoring community initiatives in education, arts & culture and the environment, we’re proud to support the organizations and people that make each of Chicago’s neighborhoods a better place to live and work. Learn more about grants and resources available to you or your organization at ComEd.com/CommunityPrograms www.citizennewspapergroup.com
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CITIZEN | Hyde Park | Week of Dec. 16, 2020
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CITIZEN | Hyde Park | Week of Dec. 16, 2020
Moving forward as a community The pandemic and humanitarian crisis has brought us together with intensified passion and resilience. At Bank of America, we remain focused on supporting the well-being of our teammates, providing the essential financial services our clients need and helping local communities across the country move forward. Here in Chicago, we’ve donated masks to local partners to distribute to those most at risk. We’ve provided lending to local small businesses through the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) to help strengthen our local economy. And we continue to partner with local nonprofits and organizations that are working to advance racial equality and economic opportunity in the communities we serve. We’re grateful for our employees, who have worked tirelessly to support our clients. And we are especially grateful to the healthcare and essential workers who have helped Chicago recover. My teammates and I remain fully committed to the work to come in 2021 and beyond.
Paul Lambert Chicago Market President
Working together Grateful for our partners in Chicago who gave our community support when it needed it most. 126,000 PPE masks donated 7,810 PPP small business client loans totaling $691 million Bank of America employees
To learn more, please visit bankofamerica.com/community Bank of America, N.A. Member FDIC. Equal Credit Opportunity Lender. © 2020 Bank of America Corporation. All rights reserved.
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FASHION
BABOR “Breaking Boundaries” Scholarship Program Launched BABOR, a global leader in professional skincare, announced that they will fund four BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, and People of Color) esthetics scholarships administered by the non-profit Beauty Changes Lives for students interested in pursuing careers within the professional beauty industry. Committed to its ongoing support of the professional spa business, the BABOR Breaking Boundaries Scholarship will shine a light on the vast job opportunities within the industry while advocating for an inclusive and diverse community. Each scholarship will be awarded to four BIPOC students previously unable to pursue their dreams of a career in spa esthetics. “As a leader in the professional spa industry, we want to help pave the way for creating career opportunities and to facilitate
a very inclusive and diverse community,” says Tim Waller, CEO of BABOR BEAUTY GROUP AMERICAS. “Each scholarship recipient will be mentored by one of BABOR America’s very own expert estheticians, empowering these students with all the tools needed to become future stars of spa esthetics. We hope to inspire other members of the spa community to join forces and fund additional scholarship opportunities as well,” adds Waller. Beauty Changes Lives is an advocate for diversity and inclusion in an industry long known for affirmation regardless of ethnicity, gender or sexual orientation. “The best path for bridging the talent gap in the spa sector is to create a larger and more inclusive talent pipeline,” says Lynelle Lynch, president of Beauty Changes Lives. She cited
a study published in leading spa publication Pulse, noting diverse teams often outperform their peers in terms of innovation and revenue growth. The article also noted that companies with diverse management teams were 35% more likely to achieve better financial performance than their peers. BABOR’s investment in education is widely recognized within the international professional spa sector. “We commend BABOR for their investment in the future of the spa industry and hope their gift will encourage other organizations to support professional development programs for estheticians, massage therapists and other spa professionals,” says Lynne McNees, president of the International Spa Association (ISPA). ISPA Board Chairman and Vice President Spa and Retail at
Montage International Patrick Huey echoes this sentiment, adding, “We at ISPA are excited to support BABOR and Beauty Changes Lives as they pursue positive change by supporting promising individuals who belong to groups too often under-represented in our industry.” BABOR’s Breaking Boundaries scholarship will offer four full-tuition scholarships to under-represented students pursuing cosmetology or esthetic programs beginning Spring 2021. In addition to tuition grants, Beauty Changes Lives provides networking opportunities via mentors and connections that have changed the lives of more than 600 beauty and wellness professionals. For additional information on the BABOR Breaking Boundaries scholarship, please visit babor.com.
New Black-Owned Fitness Brand CYCMODE Introduces an Immersive and Integrated Fitness Experience … and Its About to Get Real, Literally Inspired by cinema, music video experiences and interactive gaming, CYCMODE is a boutique group fitness studio offering multiple fitness offerings under one roof — indoor cycling, strength training, and yoga. Launching in January 2021, CYCMODE will offer up to eight live and live-stream workouts per day led by CYCMODE’s team of top fitness professionals. CYCMODE believes a proper mindset (or #MODE) is key to achieving fitness goals. From the moment a new member walks in the door, clients are instructed to define their “MODE.” Whether it’s #GetFitMODE, #BadassMODE, etc., CYCMODE wants clients to own their fitness journey by putting their #MODE to it. The first-floor indoor cycling studio features 35 bikes and a wall-to-wall massive 60-foot-wide curved video screen set in a cycling theatre. Workouts such as THE TRIP™ give riders the sensation of climbing and sprinting through digitally created worlds paired with indoor cycling bikes that mimic a real bike, allowing riders to lean, turn and steer. CYCMODE also offers themed fitness experiences such as its signature MUSIC VIDEO RIDES, which feature a CYCMODE Instructor and favorite music artists and videos — like Atlanta’s own Ludacris, Usher, TI, Migos, Future, Outkast and Ciara — to
CYCMODE
name a few. It is the ultimate immersive fitness party, with the added benefit of burning serious calories. “Without experiencing it, when we mention we’re immersive, most clients
immediately envision we’re cycling wearing a VR headset. That’s not needed here. Once on the bike and with coaching from CYCMODE Instructors, riders are immediately swept into the workout experience and begin leaning into turns, ducking under bridges or doing power climbs to music videos like Cardi B, which adds even more intensity to an already powerful workout,” said Tasha White, founder/CEO. A separate multi-purpose studio on the mezzanine-level features a 40-foot-wide video screen and offers a variety of fitness MODES such as HIITMODE, YOGAMODE, and TEAMMODE. HIITMODE — a circuit workout designed to help participants get lean and toned using battle ropes, kettlebells, TRX, Smart Bars and more; YOGAMODE — an upbeat and uplifting yoga flow focused on enhancing endurance, strength and flexibility; and TEAMMODE — a virtual or in-studio corporate teambuilding experience that promotes individual well-being and creates an environment that fosters increased team effectiveness. In-studio, digital, and on-demand fitness solutions are available for Atlanta-based and digital clients around the world and indoor cycling bikes are available for at-home purchase. To learn more about CYCMODE fitness offerings and workout packages, visit www. cycmode.com.
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Bevel Presents, “Created For Kings” Bevel is reminding the world that Black men deserve self-care too by introducing, “Created for Kings”, a new brand campaign commemorating the beauty, strength, and resilience of Black men. Written by Walker and Company VP of Marketing, Tia Cummings, “Created for Kings” is a love letter to one of the most misunderstood and misrepresented segments of society. Comprised of uplifting depictions of Black men across all walks of life, the campaign launches with a powerful message: Black man, you are seen. You are loved. You are a King. “Created for Kings” is the latest of Bevel’s ongoing efforts to praise, protect and provide for Black men. The Bevel team has partnered with like-minded creatives to bring the “Created for Kings” campaign to life. First is Creative Theory, a Black-owned and operated creative agency and one of this year’s Ad Age ‘Agency of the Year’ winners. Spearheaded by Co-Founders, Gary Williams Jr. and Tamon George, Creative Theory is a collective of strategic visionaries helping brands to execute authentic cultural storytelling. George said: “As an agency, we work with brands who see value in our community. Bevel has been one of the brands since the beginning who came with real perspective, understanding and attention to the Black male experience. “Created for Kings” is a reflection of that, and Creative Theory is incredibly grateful to have the opportunity to work with a brand that truly SEES our community.” Also partnering in the campaign launch is New York Times best-selling author and NAACP Image Award Winner, Jason Reynolds, lending his soulstirring voice to a moving narration addressed directly to Black men. Layered atop a touching video compilation echoes Reynolds’ voice: “Dear Black man, we see you doing your best every day to survive…We are here to support you, uplift you, help you show up at your best every day, and remind you that you are a King.” These words are paired with uplifting images of everyday Black Kings – fathers, husbands, partners, entrepreneurs and everyday workers – reminding them and those that love them of their immeasurable value. 2020 has brought echoes of generational trauma to the forefront of global consciousness and conversations. Throughout the year, Bevel has taken a vocal position in support of Black men and the broader Black community by advocating for increased access to mental health resources, supporting distance learning and supporting the beauty and barber community in the face of COVID 19. Tia Cummings reflects on the importance of Bevel’s mission to honor Black men and push back against harmful stereotypes: “Bevel takes great pride in playing a lead role in shaping the narrative around Black men. It is our hope that this campaign will help drive a greater appreciation for the diversity, strength, and beauty of Black men, and serve as a point of pride for the Black community as a whole.” says Cummings. Bevel invites you to participate in the “Created for Kings” campaign by sharing your own images and stories of Black men at their best. For more information on Bevel or the “Created for Kings” campaign, visit getbevel. com/kings or follow Bevel on Instagram.
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The all-new Hyundai ELANTRA. Tech-savvy, sleek and seriously dripping.
Designed for the young at heart, this sleek compact sedan offers a fully integrated tech experience with flavor you can savor right at your fingertips. Imagine a Digital Key that locks, unlocks, and starts your ride along with a 10.25-inch infotainment touchscreen. Mix in Dynamic Voice Recognition that allows you to roll down your windows, pop your trunk, and control the temperature with your voice. Suddenly you have an intuitive, tech-savvy car designed for better living without breaking the bank. Now that’s dripping.
Preproduction model shown with optional features. Near Field Communication (NFC) digital smartphone key requires a compatible Android smartphone and an appropriately equipped 2021 Elantra. Not all Android devices are compatible. The Elantra must be equipped with smart key with push button start, wireless device charging, and Audio Video Navigation System 5.0 (or newer) or Display Audio 2.0. Lock/unlock functionality works on driver’s door only. See your Owner’s Manual for details and limitations. Dynamic Voice Recognition varies by unit. Speak in a normal voice and minimize background noise for best results. See Owner’s Manual for details and limitations. Hyundai is a registered trademark of Hyundai Motor Company. All rights reserved. ©2020 Hyundai Motor America.