South End Citizen 1-13-2021 by CITIZEN NEWSPAPERS

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 Jan. 13, 2021

| Vol. 53 | No. 49 | www.citizennewspapergroup.com

SOUTH END

Overdose Deaths Accelerating During COVID-19

BLACK FASHION WEEK FOUNDER CREATES BLACK BOUTIQUE GUIDE

Page 2

Almost 9 Million Blacks Ready To Take the COVID Vaccine Page 3

PAGE 2

Luxury T-Shirt Supports Local Restaurants Page 8

Melody Boykin, founder of Black Fashion Week, has created a guide book of Black-owned fashion businesses titled, “The Little Black Boutique Guide Book.” Photo courtesy of Melody Boykin

advertising@citizennewspapergroup.com thechicagocitizen@thechicagocitiz www.facebook.com/durrell.garth.9 www.citizennewspapergroup.com

2 | CITIZEN | South End | Week of Jan. 13, 2021

NEWS briefly EDUCATION NHA CREATES PARTNERSHIP, PATH FOR ACCREDITED IMMUNIZATION TRAINING FOR PHARMACY TECHNICIANS AHEAD OF NEW VACCINES National Healthcareer Association (NHA) is now partnering with CEimpact to offer pharmacy technicians an ACPE-accredited immunization training option, helping them qualify to administer vaccinations according to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services’ (HHS) Public Readiness and Emergency Preparedness (PREP) Act. CEimpact, a leader in pharmacy training and education, will provide both immunization training and technicianspecific continuing education courses to NHA’s educational and employer partners, along with pharmacy technicians. The immunization training is open to all state-licensed pharmacy technicians, regardless of whether they are nationally certified. The HHS PREP Act expands on previous rights accorded to qualified pharmacy technicians and state-authorized pharmacy interns, authorizing those who meet HHS requirements to administer childhood vaccines, COVID-19 tests, and COVID-19 vaccines (upon availability). For more information on NHA and the ACPE-accredited immunization training for pharmacy technicians through CEimpact, visit https://info.nhanow.com/onepartner.

HEALTH

OVERDOSE DEATHS ACCELERATING DURING COVID-19 Over 81,000 drug overdose deaths occurred in the United States in the 12 months ending in May 2020, the highest number of overdose deaths ever recorded in a 12-month period, according to recent provisional data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). While overdose deaths were already increasing in the months preceding the 2019 novel coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic, the latest numbers suggest an acceleration of overdose deaths during the pandemic. “The disruption to daily life due to the COVID-19 pandemic has hit those with substance use disorder hard,” said CDC Director Robert Redfield, M.D. “As we continue the fight to end this pandemic, it’s important to not lose sight of different groups being affected in other ways. We need to take care of people suffering from unintended consequences,” he said.

LAW & POLITICS

THIRD TIME’S A CHARM: MEYER LAW NAMED ON LIST OF FASTEST GROWING LAW FIRMS IN THE U.S. FOR THE THIRD YEAR IN A ROW Woman-owned technology law firm, Meyer Law, is named one of the Fastest Growing Law Firms in the United States by Law Firm 500, marking its third year on the list. With offices in Chicago, Denver and Los Angeles, the lawyers at Meyer Law help technology companies across the United States with corporate, contracts, employment, intellectual property, fundraising and privacy matters. Meyer Law’s clients range from startups, some of which have been featured on ABC’s hit show Shark Tank, to fast-growing technology companies that have graced the Inc.500 list, to large, global corporations. “Being named to the Law Firm 500 list for the third year in a row is unparalleled recognition of hard work and a commitment to the work we do,” says Tricia Meyer, the founder & managing attorney at Meyer Law, “It’s not only a testament to our amazing team, partnership approach and mission-driven philosophy, but it’s also a reflection of our incredible, gamechanging clients that have grown by our side.” The honorees on the Law Firm 500 are trailblazers in the legal community demonstrating innovation, operational excellence, a commitment to client service and have achieved significant growth in revenues. Find the full list of 2020 Law Firm 500 Award Honorees here https://lawfirm500. com/2020-award-honorees/.

Black fashion Week founder creates Black Boutique guide Continued from page 1 BY TIA CAROL JONES

Melody Boykin, founder of Black Fashion Week, wanted to highlight Black-owned fashion boutiques in the Chicagoland area. So, she decided to create “The Little Black Boutique Guide Book,” which will debut in February. Boykin said 8 to 10 years ago, when she was in the fashion industry, she didn’t see a lot of Black fashion designers highlighted on a platform where they were recognized. She created Black Fashion Week because she wanted to see Black fashion designers promoted. She also wanted to create brand awareness for their work. Boykin said five or six years ago, she was doing research and realized there was not a directory of Blackowned fashion boutiques. “With every neighborhood I visited, I discovered, and I was mesmerized by the amount of Black-owned fashion stores in Chicago,” she said. In doing more research, Boykin said she thought Chicago had more Black-owned fashion boutiques than any other city in the country. She said the idea came to her to produce a book, a travel guide to help stimulate the economy for Black-owned fashion boutiques, as well as inform others where they can shop Black. Boykin has been interviewing Black fashion boutique owners for the last three to four years to create the directory. She said the Buy Black movement after the social justice movement and Black Lives Matter, really spurred her to finish the book. She said 2021 was the perfect time to release the book. “The Little Black Boutique Guide Book” includes more than 60 featured boutiques, with a sneak peak of how each one looks inside. In addition, there are 50 Chicagoland boutiques, as well as 30 Black-owned boutiques listed from across the United States, from East Coast to West Coast. The book also has discount codes for first time shoppers to encourage people to explore neighbor-

“The Little Black Boutique Guide Book” features more than 150 Black-owned fashion boutiques across the United States, with an emphasis on Black-owned fashion boutiques in Chicago. Photo courtesy of Melody Boykin

hoods and to support Blackowned fashion businesses. Boykin said in interviewing the Black -owned business owners, she discovered there was a uniqueness in what those businesses offered. She said she learned there was a lot of creativity and the customer they catered to. “No two stores are alike. There were stores that catered to the same market but in terms of fashion and what they offered in the store, it was so unique to each store,” she said. Boykin said her guide book speaks volumes about where Black people have come from, when it comes to Blackowned businesses and entre-

www.citizennewspapergroup.com

preneurship from the past. “In terms of the saturation of Black-owned fashion business owners, it tells that more and more, people are establishing their business. The number of stores really mesmerized me because, I was like, wow, we have this many Black-owned fashion businesses in Chicago. So, that speaks a lot in terms of our capabilities in owning businesses,” she said. Boykin said she also learned about the longevity of some of the Black-owned fashion business owners she interviewed. She said there are legacy boutiques that she features that inspired others

to open brick-and-mortar fashion boutiques. Boykin continued: “I really wanted this book to serve as a cultural gatekeeper for the accomplishments of African-American, Black fashion businesses to serve as a way to inform and inspire for generations to come to have an actual archive of Black-owned businesses here in Chicago and to contribute to that history.” “The Little Black Boutique Guide Book” costs $24 for the print edition and $9.99 for the e-book edition. To purchase the book, visit www.blackfashionweekusa. com.

CITIZEN | South End | Week of Jan. 13, 2021

NEWS

Almost 9 Million Blacks Ready To Take the COVID Vaccine A new study conducted by BlackDoctor.org (BDO), the leading health and wellness site for Black Americans with over 20 million monthly reach, shows that approximately 8.7 million Blacks are now more receptive to taking the COVID vaccine, and the hardline stance of vaccine hesitancy is decreasing substantially. BDO has conducted numerous surveys beginning in April 2020 regarding the willingness of Blacks to take the vaccine. Over the course of this year and on average, approximately 60% of Black Americans reported they were not taking the vaccine for a variety of reasons. In one survey, the percentage of vaccine hesitancy increased to 91% for Black adults. Now, BDO highlights a significant breakthrough with its current survey findings. The number of Blacks stating they will not take the vaccine has dropped to 42%, a substantial decrease from 60%. Thirty percent (30%) now say they want more information. Three prevailing mindsets have emerged from Black Americans: l 28% want to take the vaccine (8.7 million adults) l 30% want more information (9.3 million adults) l 42% say they will not take the vaccine (13 million adults, but down from 18.6 million) Of particular note is the 5.6 million that have altered their stance while citing the combination of the following reasons: the fact that the top Black doctors are saying it is safe and that they learned more about the vaccine on trusted websites like BDO. Reggie Ware, CEO of BDO

A new study conducted by BlackDoctor.org (BDO) shows that approximately 8.7 million Blacks are now more receptive to taking the COVID vaccine, and the hardline stance of vaccine hesitancy is decreasing substantially.

credits the Black Coalition Against COVID-19 with helping the Black community overcome vaccine hesitancy and achieve this historic level of success. Dr. Reed Tuckson is the co-founder of the coalition, which consists of the four Black medical schools: The National Black Nurses Association, the National Medical Association, the National Urban League, the Cobb Institute of the NMA, and BlackDoctor.org. “It is now time to be very deliberate to ensure the 8 million Blacks who want the vaccine actually receive the vaccination,” states Dr. Reed Tuckson. “Additionally, the 9.3 million people who want more information should absolutely receive it, and the coalition is poised to inform and answer questions through the BDO platform with a variety of Facebook Live broadcasts and other outreach activities.”

Contests encourage students to use their creative talents to promote radon awareness The Illinois Emergency Management Agency (IEMA) is urging residents to take time in the coming weeks to test their home for radon as part of Radon Action Month. Radon related health risks are preventable with a simple home detection test. Radon is a naturally occurring radioactive gas that is recognized as the second-leading cause of lung cancer in the United States. Radon comes from the natural breakdown of uranium and radium in the soil. This odorless, colorless, tasteless gas is found all over the United States in the air that we breathe in buildings, homes, offices and if not properly mitigated, can reach drastically high levels causing major health concerns. It’s estimated more than 1,100 people in Illinois develop radon-related lung cancer each year. “With more people staying home, working and learning remotely, this is a great time to test your home for radon,” said IEMA Director Alicia Tate-Nadeau. “Radon enters our homes through cracks and other holes in the structure’s foundation or crawl space. Homes trap radon where it can build up once inside. It’s important to note that radon can be found in older buildings and new constructions. A simple home test is an inexpensive and easy way to know if you and your family is at risk of exposure.” The Illinois Emergency Management

Agency (IEMA) and the American Lung Association in Illinois (ALAIL) are teaming up to increase public awareness of radon risks and ways to reduce radon exposure. IEMA and ALAIL announced the continuation of two statewide contests that encourage students to use their creative talents to promote radon awareness. The Radon Video Contest asks Illinois high school students to create a 30 second commercial style video, while the Radon Poster Contest asks middle school students to create a poster that will encourage people to test their homes for radon. All contest prizes are funded by a grant from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. Both contests are sponsored by IEMA, ALAIL and U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Region 5. In 2020, Illinois took home top honors in the National Radon Video Contest. The video, What’s Your Radon, was produced by Girl Scout Troop 41592 and was comprised of students from Barrington High School. The top posters and videos from the 2020 state contests can be viewed on IEMA’s radon website at www.radon.illinois.gov. The website also includes information about radon and lists of licensed measurement and mitigation professionals. Information is also available through IEMA’s Radon Hotline at 800-325-1245.

COMMENTARY

WE WILL SIT AT THE CHILDREN’S TABLE BY OSCAR H. BLAYTON

Joe Biden continues to assure the world that America is ready to take its place at the head of the table and lead the nations of the world. But this hubristic assertion makes one wonder if the soon to be 46th president of the United States has been dozing for the past 47 months. The people who voted Donald Trump into office in 2016 and tried to give him a second term in 2020 are still running amuck in the “U.S. of A.” and they are getting more unruly by the hour. It does not take a great deal of scholarly research to realize that very few nations would be willing to follow the lead of the United States going forward. It is too easy and too simplistic to blame Donald Trump for all the ill that befell the global community during America’s delinquency during the past four years. And no one, other than the smug self-satisfied proponents of the myth of American ex-

Oscar H. Blayton

ceptionalism, is buying the argument that “this is not who we are.” For four years, we have made it very clear that this is exactly who we are as a country – “greedy,” “ruthless,” “unempathetic,” “uncharitable,” “hateful” and “narcistic.” These are just a few words that come to mind when describing the American character that has been laid bare by Trumpism. Not only is America not deserv-

ing of sitting at the head of the world table, it will have to sit at the children’s table along with the other anti-democratic republics led by autocrats. And if this country tries to use bullying tactics to bend other nations to its will, it will suffer the same humiliation that met the French government when it assumed it could return to Vietnam in 1945 and resume colonial control after abandoning the Vietnamese to the cruelties of the invading Japanese in the early days of World War II. Under Trump, America abandoned the rest of the world when it came to working to solve global warming, poverty, human rights, the worldwide refugee crisis and many more problems facing humanity. No one will willingly follow a fraud and a hypocrite. And every disgusting characteristic Donald Trump exhibited during his term in office reflects those of a large swarth of the American public that supported him with their votes. Even now, freedom-lovwww.citizennewspapergroup.com

ing Americans hold their collective breath while Republicans try to lock in their hateful agenda by maintaining control of the U.S. Senate. Those Republicans slavishly following Trump have made it clear that they do not care about American values to which we claim to aspire. Nor do they care about the U.S. Constitution or the American people it was designed to protect. The nations watching us from the far shores of the Atlantic and the Pacific oceans and our neighbors to the north and south are keenly aware of the weakness of our character and our moral bankruptcy. We have squandered our good name on a cruel buffoon intent on bullying his way across the world stage with a huge economy and the largest military on earth to back him up. We did not denounce him soon enough when he was clearly in the wrong. We overlooked his lies and his evil ways for months on end while they were in plain view. It is often said that you show peo-

ple who you are by what you do, not by what you say. No matter what Joe Biden says, the world has had ample opportunity to witness the harm America is capable of inflicting on our fellow man. We can strut and preen in a self-congratulatory promenade celebrating the ousting of Trump, but we still will have to sit at the children’s table because it is clear that Trump was merely a boil that rose and erupted when the pus of white supremacy and other evils was allowed to fester beneath the skin of America’s body politic. We have lanced the boil, but we now know that the corruption that gave rise to Trump is still in America’s bloodstream and we must work diligently to find the cure. Until we find that cure, we will be relegated to the children’s table. Oscar H. Blayton is a former Marine Corps combat pilot and human rights activist who practices law in Virginia.

4 | CITIZEN | South End | Week of Jan. 13, 2021

BUSINESS Illinois State Black Chamber of Commerce Conference A Huge Success The Illinois State Black Chamber of Commerce (ILBCC) hosted two days of insightful symposiums and impactful workshops during its annual convention, themed “Surviving the Pandemics Virtual State Convention.” While the current climate has forced most organizations to scale down operations considerably, the Chamber has been able to continue providing services and fulfilling many of its 2020 initiatives. The Chamber’s flagship event exceeded expectations by providing high-caliber information and networking opportunities. Many attendees and participants reported that the conference was the most balanced, impactful experience of 2020 that included a stellar lineup of panelists and content. The conference kicked off with the “Black Media Symposium,” which was co-presented by the Coalition for Black Media Equity. It provided a narrative of historical and contemporary context of the importance of the Black media in today’s society. Wynona Redmond of Wyn-Win Communications moderated a panel featuring industry trailblazers Dorothy Leavell of the Crusader, Melody Spann-Cooper of WVON Broadcasting, Denise Pendleton of BBUnite, Carl West of TBT News, Cheryl Grace of Nielsen, and Hermene Hartman of N’Digo. The “Utilities and Energy Symposium”

PRNewsfoto/Illinois State Black Chamber of Commerce

featured the CEOs of the top utility companies, including Richard Mark of Ameren II, John Hudson of Nicor Gas, Terence Donnelly of ComEd, and Charles Matthews of Peoples Gas. John Harmon, president of the African American Chamber of Commerce of New Jersey, led a discussion on “The Future of Corporate Diversity and Inclusion.” Panelists included Justin Ladner of Illinois American Water, James Gellert of Rapid Ratings, Arthur Mothershed of Wind Creek Hospitality, and Winfred Sanders of Neta Scientific. Both the “Construction Contracting Symposium” and “Contracting with State Agencies Symposium” were standouts and among the most highly requested by attendees. Nosa Ehimwenman of Bowa Construction, Malcolm Weems of Weems Way Consulting, and

Rod Young of The Will Group moderated the sessions which featured these panelists: John Yonan of the Bureau of Asset Management, Jose Alvarez of the Illinois Tollway, Jessie Martinez of Capital Development Board, and Cory Thames of the Chicago Department of Aviation, Shaunna Sims-Davis of the City of Chicago, Aaron Carter of Illinois Public Higher Education Cooperative, Raffi Sarrafian of Cook County, Sharla Roberts of University of Illinois, and Eric Occomy of the Illinois Tollway. Other forums included “Live Matchmaking” sessions, which offered private one-on-one relationship building meetings with nearly 20 major corporations, state agencies, and universities. Local mayors Sam Cunningham of Waukegan, Richard Irvin of Aurora, and Leon Rockingham of North Chicago participated

Urban One, Inc. Chairwoman Receives Congressional Recognition And NABJ Hall Of Fame Accolades For 40 Years Of Service To The African American Community Urban One, Inc. Executive Vice President and Chief Adminstrative Office Karen Wishart recently announced that Founder and Chairwoman, Cathy Hughes and CEO Alfred Liggins III, have received Congressional commendations for Urban One’s 40-year anniversary and its impact on the national media landscape. Congressional leaders, the Honorable Eleanor Holmes Norton of the District of Columbia and the Honorable Chris Van Hollen of the State of Maryland both recognized Urban One’s 40 years of service with statements on the floors of the US House of Representatives and US Senate, respectively. Additionally, Hughes was inducted into the Hall of Fame for the National Association of Black Journalists (NABJ). Urban One celebrated its milestone anniversary of 40 years amid the unprecedented social, political, and economic challenges presented in 2020. Representative Holmes Norton and Senator Van Hollen both entered tributes to the company into the Congressional records of both the US House of Representatives and Senate, paying homage to Hughes’ career and contributions to the media industry. “Mr. President, I rise today to honor

Cathy Hughes, Founder and Chairperson of Urban One, Inc.

a tenacious, entrepreneur, visionary radio personality, and powerful advocate for the African American community, Cathy Hughes,” noted Senator Van Hollen. “This year, her pioneering radio company, Urban One, celebrated 40 years on the air. Cathy Hughes has left an indelible mark on the State of Maryland and inspired millions of listeners across the country.” Representative Holmes Norton acknowledged the impact Urban One has had on the national media landscape and the contribution of Liggins, Hughes’ son and business partner, who is responsible for taking the company public. Holmes Norton included in her statement for the Congressional record, “I ask the House of Representatives to join me in recognizing the accomplishments

of Cathy Hughes on the occasion of the 40th anniversary of Urban One.” “I am deeply humbled by this prestigious recognition and grateful that Urban One’s contributions are now a part of our nation’s Congressional record,” said Hughes. “The year 2020 will long be remembered as a year that challenged and changed our country, and while we faced unprecedented trials, this honor and our opportunity to be of service to the black community are among the highest distinctions we have received.” Hughes was also inducted into the NABJ Hall of Fame along with other noted media professionals, including senior correspondents and FOX NFL reporter Pam Oliver and Chicago Sun Times columnist Mary Mitchell. Urban One postponed plans to commemorate its milestone anniversary with an event. Instead, it established a new foundation, Urban One Community Works, a non-profit that provides financial support to organizations and programs that work to strengthen and improve the quality of life of African Americans in the markets it serves. Its inaugural donations were made in support of agencies providing aid to families struggling due to COVID-19. www.citizennewspapergroup.com

in the “Black Mayors Forum.” Top community advocates and physicians provided insights in the “Re-Imagining Healthcare for the Black Community” session that featured Dr. Jeffrey Sterling of Sterling Initiatives/SIMPCO, Dr. Niva Lubin-Johnson, Dr. Carol Adams, Mario Kemp and Arnold Crater. Three industry leaders were recognized for their significant contributions to advancing and supporting diversity and inclusion for Illinois’ Black-owned businesses. The ILBCC 2020 honorees include: Cheryl Grace, senior vice president of U.S. strategic community alliances and consumer engagement, Nielsen - Outstanding Media Partner Award; Michelle Muhammad, director of supplier diversity, Southern Company Gas/Nicor Gas - Outstanding Procurement Partner Award; and Richard Mark, president, Ameren Illinois - John Rogers Lifetime Achievement Award. The mission of the Illinois Black Chamber of Commerce is to empower Black enterprises in order to strengthen Black communities. Their goal is for all Black businesses in Illinois to become sustainable, high-growth enterprises by assisting with building their capacity to compete effectively for local, state, and federal commercial contracting. SOURCE Illinois State Black Chamber of Commerce

Ariel Investments Named a Best Place to Work by Pensions & Investments Ariel Investments, LLC, recently announced that it has been named to Pensions & Investments’ annual list of the Best Places to Work in Money Management. This is the second time the firm has received this honor. “It’s an honor to be recognized for our unique and boundary-pushing approach to talent management,” said Marlo Gaal, senior vice president and chief talent officer at Ariel Investments. “First and foremost, we are a team who celebrates diversity and practices inclusion as a way to get work done. Our employees are teammates and shareholders, who have skin in the game and a seat at the table. As a 96 percent employee-owned business, we live our mission fully and passionately every day. Our commitment to equity, dignity, and wellness, and our culture of learning are also reflected in our industry-leading benefits program, which provides fully paid healthcare and covers a broad range of wellness expenses, including those associated with physical fitness, mental health, nutrition, and anything else contributing to an employee’s wellbeing.” Pensions & Investments partnered with Best Companies Group, a research firm specializing in identifying great places to work, to

conduct a two-part survey process of employers and their employees. The first part consisted of evaluating each nominated company’s workplace policies, practices, philosophy, systems and demographics. This part of the process was worth approximately 25% of the total evaluation. The second part consisted of an employee survey to measure the employee experience. This part of the process was worth approximately 75% of the total evaluation. The combined scores determined the top companies. For a complete list of the 2020 Pensions & Investments’ Best Places to Work in Money Management winners and write-ups, go to www. pionline.com/BPTW2020. About Ariel Investments Ariel Investments, LLC is a global value-based asset management firm founded in 1983. The firm is headquartered in Chicago, with offices in New York City, Washington, D.C., and Sydney. As of December 8, 2020, Ariel’s firm-wide assets under management totaled approximately $13.3 billion. The firm serves individual and institutional investors through five no-load mutual funds and 11 separate account strategies. For more information, please visit Ariel’s website at arielinvestments. com.

CITIZEN | South End | Week of Jan. 13, 2021

Remembering A King Theta Omega/AKArama Foundation to Perform Acts of Service During Virtual King Drive Journey King Holiday Initiative to also Mark Launch of “Invest King Drive” Theta Omega Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. and its charitable arm — AKArama Foundation, Inc. — will join forces to celebrate Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.'s national holiday on January 18th. Inspired by the theme, "Acts of Service on Chicago's King Drive," they will journey down Dr. King Drive performing acts of service. The venues and organizations that will benefit from this powerful collaboration reflect the spirit of Dr. King and the Sorority's mission: "To serve all mankind." The Chapter and Foundation will also use the occasion to launch "Invest: King Drive," whose purpose is to pump money and resources into principal thoroughfares in Chicago. According to President Veletta L. Bell, as part of "Acts of Service on Chicago's King Drive," the two entities will use their resources to “virtually” make the trip down the fabled 14-mile King Drive stretch and uplift organizations and iconic establishments that embrace education, the arts, Black business, economic security, Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs), health, and global impact. There will be a particular effort aimed at responding and addressing those impacted by the economic ravages wrought by COVID-19. To that end, the Foundation will identify and invest resources in businesses and organizations along King Drive. According to Program Chairman Kimberley Egonmwan, this groundbreaking initiative marks the beginning of a larger programmatic collaboration geared toward flooding resources into the arteries that make up Chicago's African-American community. The virtual "Acts of Service on Chicago's King Drive" voyage begins at 9 am at the United African Organization, 4901 S. King Drive. This agency, which is devoted to helping African immigrants, will receive a donation of 90 backpacks. Viewed as a compassionate donation, Bell said that backpacks would offer a safe and dignified alternative to the garbage bags immigrants sometimes use to store and transport their belongings. The next virtual stop, at 11 am, will be the Washington Park Field House- 5531 S. King Dr. A $500 donation will be presented to the Khalidah North African Dance Experience, a Black-owned, femaleowned business run by the award-winning and internationally renowned dancer and choreographer, Khalidah Kali. Due to COVID-19, she was forced to shut down in-person classes and conduct them via Zoom. The contribution will help

Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and Matthew Ahmann . Photo source: Wikimedia Commons ease the financial pressure the company has had to endure as a result of the pandemic. This initiative supports the arts, African-culture, and health targets since dance promotes heart health. At noon the virtual tour will venture south to the housing complex, Parkway Gardens at 6418 S. King Dr. There, they will make a $500 contribution to Future Ties, which offers over 1,200 elementary school children and youth from Parkway Gardens after-school programming five days per week. Future Ties recently expanded its after-school program to include middle and high school students. Theta Omega Chapter and AKArama Foundation, Inc. have initiated a partnership with Future Ties to ensure high school students will have the help they need to successfully apply to, and matriculate at, college. This project also has the potential to provide scholarships and additional mentorship to the residents. With the virtual tour in the lunchtime window, the next stop is at 1PM at Roy's Soul Food located at 71st and King Drive. Celebrated as "the best soul food restaurant on the southside," Roy's Soul Food is a Black-owned, second-generation restaurant and catering business that correlates with the AKArama Foundation's target to support Black business. The Foundation contracted Roy's to cater lunch at Feather Fist Veterans Home at 9020 S. Langley. This is an extension of the Theta Omega and AKArama Foundation's commitment to support and honor homeless veterans in temporary housing. The Foundation supports Feather Fist year-round with donations of personal goods, food, grocery cards, and other items that sustain the veterans.

WWW.CITIZENNEWSPAPERGROUP.COM

Because of the compelling and vital cultural niche that the Southside Community Arts Center fills, the tour will veer off the King Drive route and end with a virtual visit to the Center at 3831 S. Michigan Ave, which was founded by Dr. Margaret Burroughs and other African American artists during President Roosevelt’s administration. The Theta Omega/ AKArama Foundation will give a nod to this bastion of the Black Arts Movement with a $500 contribution to support the historic African-American museum. This virtual stop underscores a strong commitment to the Arts. With the Day of Service at an end, the Foundation and Chapter will turn their attention to "Invest: King Drive," which will debut on this day. The overarching purposes of the "Invest King Drive" initiative are: • to offer direct support and solicit additional support for businesses and organizations that enrich the community •to provide resources and financial assistance to enterprises and agencies that have been devastated by COVID-19. This represents the first of three initiatives targeting major arteries in Chicago's AfricanAmerican communities as the program will expand to "Invest: Cottage Grove" and "Invest: Stony Island." Bell issued a challenge and charge to stillthriving businesses to join the Chapter/ Foundation's crusade to support enterprises in peril due to the pandemic. Egonmwan stated this initiative was conceived as part of a larger vision to renew, revive, and resuscitate Chicago’s Black neighborhoods, stimulating the growth needed to support growth in Chicago’s Black community. Said Bell. "The Chapter and Foundation are both passionate about service, and we are united in combining our energies, resources, and our resolve to give life to this initiative." She added that it represents another milestone in the 99-year history of the chapter. "With Theta Omega on the cusp of its Centennial, the Program Committee’s vision is an apt way to celebrate this occasion. Projecting the potential, power, and possibilities of the collaboration, Egonmwan said: "The Invest King Drive will serve as a template for Invest Days on Cottage Grove and Stony Island Ave. Like the King Drive model, the purpose is to shine a light, uplift, and provide an assist for these storied streets that are so much a part of the fabric of the African American community." For more information on how to support this initiative and other programs offered by Alpha Kappa Alpha, Incorporated-Theta Omega Chapter and AKArama Foundation, Inc., please email akaramaprograms@gmail.com

6 | CITIZEN | South End | Week of Jan. 13, 2021

CITIZEN | South End | Week of Jan. 13, 2021

NEWS

Top Tips for Organized Tax Filing StatePoint) 2020 was a particularly stressful year -- but filing its taxes doesn’t need to be. With the following tips, you can stay organized and cool-headed throughout the process. File Early File early so you check this major to-do off your list and relax. The good news is that the sooner you file, the better. This is true no matter what your circumstances are. If you owe money, you’ll have that much more time to plan your payment. If you’re due for a refund, filing sooner means you’ll have your money sooner, money which can be used to pay bills, be invested or be added to a rainy day fund. To that end, take some time to glance at your overall financial picture so you can make a smart game plan for directing your refund usefully.

By giving yourself the right tools and plenty of time, you can better ensure timely, accurate tax preparation.

Check Your Work A multi-functional printing calculator with a 12-digit display can help you check your work and track and manage any necessary calculations, while ensuring your figures aren’t truncated. Look for a model

that prints in two colors, such as Casio’s HR-170RC, so you can quickly see both positive and negative numbers to avoid reading errors. If you have any international holdings, this is a must-have tax season tool, as its functions include currency exchange. This model also has a built-in tax feature that lets you store a frequently-used rate and pull it up when needed, as well as a check function that allows you to scroll up to 150 steps of previous calculations. Stay Secure Your financials and personal data are especially vulnerable during tax season. Be sure to keep all the paperwork associated with your taxes organized securely. As forms arrive by mail, file them neatly in one place that’s locked and secure. Sensitive information can easily be misused if it falls into the wrong hands. If you’re storing information electronically, be sure to use strong passwords and work only on a secure network. By giving yourself the right tools and plenty of time, you can better ensure timely, accurate tax preparation.

T:10"

Learn the history you may not have been taught.

— T:6.25"

The first female self-made millionaire in America was Madam C. J. Walker, a Black woman.

Let’s build a better future by knowing more about our past. In partnership with the DuSable Museum of African American History, we’re working together to shed light on untold stories of our country’s past. ©2021 The PNC Financial Services Group, Inc. All rights reserved.

**FINAL RELEASED** www.citizennewspapergroup.com

8 | CITIZEN | South End | Week of Jan. 13, 2021

FASHION “I ALWAYS WANT TO MAKE SURE THAT PEOPLE HAVE ACCESS TO GREAT SKINCARE AND GREAT BEAUTY PRODUCTS. BRINGING FENTY SKIN TO SEPHORA AROUND THE WORLD, PLUS BOOTS AND HARVEY NICHOLS, MEANS PEOPLE EVERYWHERE WILL NOW HAVE THE ABILITY TO ENJOY THE RETAIL EXPERIENCE OF FENTY SKIN, IN ADDITION TO FENTY BEAUTY, ALL UNDER THE SAME ROOF.” – RIHANNA

Rihanna’s debut skincare brand is now available.

Fenty Skin Global Retail Launch Fenty Skin – Rihanna’s debut skincare brand – is now available in Sephora, Boots and Harvey Nichols in select locations around the world. Rihanna developed Fenty Skin in partnership with Kendo Brands, a LVMH-owned beauty developer, with an unwavering mission to provide simple solutions for all skin tones and types. Fenty Skin represents The New Culture of Skincare and is designed to complement Fenty Beauty makeup. It has been tested on all skin types and tones to work seamlessly together. Inspired by her global lifestyle, Rihanna brings together ingredients from around the world and pairs them with skincare powerhouses, such as hyaluronic acid and niacinamide, for clinically proven results. She’s prioritized clean formulas that are also vegan, cruelty-free, gluten-free and earth-conscious: The daytime moisturizer-spf is coral reef-friendly, and the packaging has prioritized recyclable materials and refillable packs. With Fenty Skin, Rihanna shares her real-life skincare routines for achieving a bright, healthy-looking complexion for both morning and night.

Green Bee Botanicals takes Best Serum trophy at live Think Dirty ‘clean beauty’ awards show Green Bee Botanicals, a cannabis skincare and wellness company founded in San Francisco by two childhood friends, recently beat out strong competition at the live 3rd Annual Dirty Thinkers’ Choice Awards by winning ‘Best Serum’ for its cannabis-infused Perfecting Face Serum. The virtual awards ceremony took place December 28 and was hosted by the leading clean beauty mobile app, Think Dirty, which has over 4.5 million users worldwide and has rated 1.4 million products so far based on their toxicity level. With consumers increasingly turning to clean skincare—non-toxic ingredients; honest, accurate labels—brands like Green Bee Botanicals that test and prove their products are clean are gaining share in the US$148 billion global skincare market. Think Dirty founder Lily Tse says of Green Bee’s win: “’Best Serum’ has always been our most competitive category and this year was no different. Green Bee Botanicals took home the top prize and it is clear why. Their Perfecting Serum really has it all! From vitamin C to CBD, this serum will leave you with swoon-worthy skin you will be dying to show off.” Green Bee Botanicals and other winners in this year’s competition were selected by Think Dirty’s 4.5 million app users (“Dirty Thinkers”) and 143,000 Instagram followers. Green Bee’s Perfecting Serum received 69% of the international vote for Best Serum in the “Best in Skincare” category. Green Bee Botanicals founder and CEO, Bridget May, adds: “We are beyond proud to be included in the Think Dirty clean collection. It’s gratifying to see more organizations helping consumers find safe and effective skincare products. There are still so many people who have no clue how ‘dirty’ their personal care products are, and it’s still a shock that the US

Green Bee Botanicals’ Perfecting Serum won ‘Best Serum’ in the 2020 Dirty Thinkers’ Choice Awards, selected by Think Dirty’s 4.5 million mobile app users and 143k Instagram followers, winning 69% of the international vote.

lets cosmetics companies get away with using known carcinogens and other harmful ingredients. We test every small batch we produce and share the results publicly on our website so our customers know that what they’re putting on their skin is healthy and healing, not harmful.” Because they’re made with full-spectrum cannabis, which includes many beneficial terpenes, flavonoids and cannabinoids (not just CBD), Green Bee Botanicals’ products are currently sold only in legal cannabis dispensaries and delivery services in California, according to a press release. A new hemp-based skincare line featuring CBD and CBG will be available from Green Bee’s website in early 2021 at https://greenbeebotanicals.com/. Follow Green Bee on Instagram at @greenbeebotanicals. Find a retailer at https://greenbeebotanicals. com/pages/find-us.

Fashion Brand Morning News Releases Luxury T-Shirt to Support Local Restaurants Total Cleans’r Remove-It-All Cleanser, Fat Water Pore-Refining Toner Serum, Hydra Vizor Invisible Moisturizer Broad Spectrum Spf 30 Sunscreen & Instant Reset Overnight Recovery Gel-Cream

The Fenty Skin assortment includes: l Total Cleans’r Remove-It-All Cleanser ($25) l Fat Water Pore-Refining Toner Serum ($28) l Hydra Vizor Invisible Moisturizer Broad Spectrum SPF 30 Sunscreen ($35, refill $30) l Instant Reset Overnight Recovery Gel-Cream ($40; refill $36), l Fenty Skin Start’r Set ($40), a 3-piece set containing Total Cleans’r, Fat Water, and Hydra Vizor in travel-size minis.

Nationwide, restaurants are closing at an expeditious rate due to COVID-19. According to a recent Eater New York article, more than 1000 restaurants have closed due to indoor dining closures because of the coronavirus pandemic. Many restaurants sought financial refuge during the summer months when outdoor dining was a massive hit among patrons who experienced quarantine fatigue. However, due to weather changes associated with winter and a complete shutdown of indoor dining in places like New York, Morning News strives to aid struggling owners with the “Support Your Local Restaurants” T-shirt. www.citizennewspapergroup.com

The idea is that if more people wear the T-shirt, fellow Americans will be encouraged to order from local restaurants, which may help keep establishments open. Moreover, a percentage of proceeds will be donated to ROAR, which will disperse the funds to the restaurant owners and employees. The month-long campaign aims to raise fifteen thousand dollars ($15,000) in the spirit of supporting communities when in need. When asked what sparked the need for this campaign, the owner of Morning News, Meyer Tawil, stated, “As a foodie, I eat out at restaurants at least four times a week. It is extremely upsetting that many restaurants are not re-

ceiving government funding, and I want to do all I can to help.” For information or to purchase a T-shirt, visit morningnewsltd.com. Morning News Ltd.’s (“Morning News”) mission is to combine the forward style of streetwear with the wearability of contemporary clothing and deliver accessible, luxe clothing in different fabrications every season. Morning News was created by Meyer Tawil and his sister, Flora Harari, because of their mutual love for style, family, and “the good life.” Influenced by corner nostalgia, the brand inspires the relaxed mood of neighborhood gatherings, reading the morning newspaper, grabbing a coffee, and living a relaxed life.

CITIZEN | South End | Week of Jan. 13, 2021

NEWS

70 CHA college students get tips on how to “Stay the Course” RSM, BMO Harris, Rush Medical Center and Art Institute of Chicago talk career opportunities with college students

Representatives from prominent corporate organizations – including RSM, BMO Harris, Rush University Medical Center and Art Institute of Chicago – networked virtually with 70 Chicago Housing Authority college students Wednesday to discuss career opportunities at “Take Flight: Staying the Course." Sponsored annually by CHA nonprofit partner Springboard to Success (S2S), Staying the Course is a check-in event designed to help CHA college students connect with those who provide internship and employment opportunities. More than a dozen corporate representatives spoke to students about their own careers and offered counsel in a panel discussion on how to achieve their dreams and stay afloat in the college world – financially and otherwise. The students included S2S scholarship winners and previous participants of the S2S-sponsored “Take Flight College SendOff" trunk party, which happens every August. The virtual event was hosted by RSM on its WebEx platform. “The ‘Take Flight College Send Off’ is meant to celebrate CHA residents getting into college. ‘Staying the Course’ is designed to help them stay there,” said CHA CEO Tracey Scott. “Students need to know where to find the resources necessary to stay in college, and this event helps them do that, providing them with connections to a variety of prominent organizations and networking opportunities that can lead to jobs.” Among the representative organizations

COMMUNITY

Keeping the Lights On for Afterschool Programs (StatePoint) Afterschool programs help students succeed in school and in life and provide invaluable support to communities. As we’ve seen this year, these programs play an especially important role when students, families, and communities are struggling. Programs across the country have stepped up in the pandemic, providing virtual educational activities, delivering meals and enrichment kits, helping families bridge the digital divide, connecting people to social services, and continuing in-person care for the children of essential workers and first responders.

CHA CEO Tracey Scott (top row, second square) joined about 70 CHA college students who participated in “Take Flight: Staying the Course,” a virtual checkin event designed to help them connect with companies that provide employment opportunities.

that participated in the virtual event: RSM BMO Harris The Greenwood Project Rush University Medical Center Northwestern Memorial Hospital Northwestern University Chicago Public Schools Chicago Police Department Blue Cross Blue Shield of Illinois Elite Ambulance Metropolitan Family Services Beacon Hill Staffing Art Institute of Chicago

Unfortunately, a large majority of afterschool programs that were open in the fall of 2020 report they are straining to meet the needs of the students and families they have long supported. National surveys of parents and afterschool providers conducted by Edge Research for the Afterschool Alliance, a nonprofit awareness and advocacy group, find that programs and parents are challenged by virtual learning; program budgets are inadequate to address new safety protocols and students’ emerging needs; and students from low-income families are now less likely than others to have access to afterschool programs. To underscore the value of afterschool programs and the need to invest in them, the Afterschool Alliance recently organized the 21st annual “Lights On Afterschool,” the only national rally for afterschool. It took place throughout the fall and included local, state, and national events – many of them virtual this year – showcasing the skills students hone and talents they develop at their afterschool programs. From virtual STEM fairs and art contests to car caravans and letter-writing to isolated nursing home

Rise Interactive CHA also provided information on the S2S Scholarship, which opens its application period on Jan. 14, and reminded students of their free access to college counseling services provided by CHA’s Education Specialists, and free access to classes at City Colleges of Chicago (CCC). Each summer, dozens of CHA students attending four-year institutions locally and nationwide attend CCC, transferring credits to their college. It allows these students to graduate quicker and with less debt.

residents, events focused on academics, civic engagement, STEM education, social and emotional wellbeing, bullying prevention, mental and physical health, and more. “The strength and resilience afterschool programs demonstrated in 2020 was

WWW.CITIZENNEWSPAPERGROUP.COM

remarkable. Despite scarce resources, programs found ways to help students through what has been, for many families, the hardest of times,” says Jodi Grant, executive director of the Afterschool Alliance. “However, there aren’t nearly enough afterschool programs to meet the need, especially now, with so many schools functioning virtually and with school schedules changing without warning. We need to invest much more in afterschool and summer learning programs.” To learn more about the Afterschool Alliance and “Lights On Afterschool,” which will next be held on October 28, 2021, visit aftershoolalliance.org. “In normal times, afterschool programs help students succeed by keeping them safe, inspiring them to learn, and by supporting working parents,” says Grant. “During a pandemic, the support they provide is even more essential.”

10 | CITIZEN | South End | Week of Jan. 13, 2021

HOME

Breathe easy: What you need to know before buying an air purifier (BPT) - More people than ever before are considering room air filters and purifiers to protect themselves against COVID-19 indoors. But do these devices really make a difference? Air purifiers and filters can help reduce airborne contaminants, including viruses, in a home, office or other confined space. While an air purifier by itself is not enough to protect people from COVID-19, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), when used along with the other best practices it recommends, operating an air purifier can be part of a plan to protect you and your family. It's easy to see how breathing cleaner air could improve overall health and well-being - and some independent studies do show a benefit from air filters and purifiers. In fact, some of the technologies now used in these devices have been scientifically proven to remove or destroy harmful pathogens in the air. Types of Air Cleaners Before you buy, learn about the three primary types of air cleaning technologies. * HEPA (high efficiency particulate air) filters use a woven filtration material to trap particles like smoke, dust and pathogens. Certified HEPA filters can collect 99.97% of particles of a certain size (0.3 microns in diameter or larger), which includes many viruses. Filters need to be changed on a regular basis and can be costly, so check the cost before you buy. While HEPA filters capture the most contaminants, they can also impede the volume of air that circulates. * Ultraviolet germicidal irradiation, (UVGI) also referred to as UV-C, uses a specific type of ultraviolet light that deactivates pathogens such as bacteria and viruses. It's a technology that's been tested and used in hospitals and healthcare settings for years. A UV-C purifier doesn't just trap smoke and dust like a HEPA filter: instead it inactivates viruses and other pathogens, rendering them harmless. While direct exposure to UV-C light can be harmful, it is safe when the UV-C bulb is completely concealed inside the unit, shielded from sight. For the most effective results, it's important that the UV-C light is strong enough and the air exposure time is long enough. One UV-C purifier, the Airetrex 365, uses a 5-watt UV-C bulb for powerful exposure, with an air replacement rate of up to four times per hour in a 10' by 10' room. With average use, the bulb lasts up to two years. More details about UV-C technology from independent experts can be found at airetrex365.com, under "Why UV-C."

* Ionization uses electricity to change airborne particles from a positive to a negative state, weighing them down and causing them to drop from the air - effectively deactivating the virus particles. However, in the process, a potentially harmful byproduct called ozone is created. Anyone considering this technology should check the Ozone Parts Per Million rating (PPM) to ensure it is below the Food and Drug Administration's limit of .005 PPM. Can you combine technologies? What about filters and purifiers that combine multiple technologies, like HEPA, UV-C and ionization - would that produce even cleaner air? The findings here are still unclear, and more is not always better. It's best to focus on the features and benefits most important to you - and how well different filtration components can meet those needs in your selected space. For example, if you only want to trap most large airborne particles and allergens, a HEPA filter might be sufficient. On the other hand, if you're concerned about viruses, like the coronavirus that causes COVID-19, you might consider the more advanced features of an air purifier with a UV-C light. Other considerations www.citizennewspapergroup.com

You should also consider room size before deciding on which air cleaner to purchase. Most manufacturers specify maximum square footage for different models, according to their capacity to filter the air in a room of a particular size in an hour. For homes, most heating and air conditioning experts recommend that the air in a room be replaced or exchanged close to three times every hour at a minimum. Air purifiers work much better in a closed or sealed room versus a big open space. Most homes rely on natural ventilation from doors, windows and air leaks for fresh air, unless the home has an air exchanger. Air purifiers can be particularly effective in homes and where there is limited ability to add fresh air. What filter works best? The answer depends on your needs. But the good news is that we can all breathe a little easier with today's advances in home air-cleaning technology. People with a condition like asthma will benefit most from HEPA air filters, since they remove irritants like smoke, dust and dander. All these elements can impact health. If you're looking for a purifier to potentially reduce exposure to pathogens and viruses, an air purifier with UV-C technology will likely process and sanitize more air in less time.

CITIZEN | South End | Week of Jan. 13, 2021

CLASSIFIEDS SERVICE

SERVICE

REAL ESTATE

LEGAL NOTICE

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 ______________________________________

MISCELLANEOUS NEW DISCOVERY ELIMINATES COMMON SEXUAL PROBLEMS! All Natural Male Enhancement Product Increases Staying Power, Performance, & Pleasure. Risk FREE 60 Day Guarantee + FREE SHIPPING. 15% Discount with Coupon perform03. Visit: TryProZyte.com ______________________________________

RENTAL Newly Decorated 4 room, 2Br apt. 5200 block S Racine, $675/mo., stove and refrigerator Ask for Mr. Lambert 773-370-7744 _______________________________

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF COOK COUNTY, ILLINOIS

Derrick Lowe,Plaintiff (s) v. Yvette Anderson Lowe, Defendant (s) No# 2020D630638 TO: Yvette Anderson Lowe, Motion by Derrick Lowe FOR: Divorce Hearing I (We) do hereby certify that a copy of this instrument was served upon all parties who have appeared and have not previously been found by the court to be in default for failure to plead. Dated: October 29, 2020, Name: Derrick Lowe Address: 12142 S. Bishop Street, Chicago, Illinois 60643, Telephone: 773-648-3878. DOROTHY BROWN, CLERK OF THE CIRCUIT COURT OF COOK COUNTY, ILLINOIS. __________________________________

Darrell Garth

President /Publisher

Janice Garth

Sales Manager General Manager

THERE IS NO NEED TO KEEP THE UNWANTED POUNDS GAINED DURING COVID-19? TRY A PERSONAL TRAINER. . .

Editorial

Send news tips, press releases, calendar listing etc to: editorial@citizennewspapergroup.com

CALL

Advertising

Display Advertising advertising@citizennewspapergroup.com or jgarth@citizennewspapergroup.com

JOHNNY BARNES @ 773-875-0536

Classified Advertising call us at

* ONE -ON-ONE * MEAL PLANS * WEIGHT TRAINING

(773) 783-1251

Display Advertising call us at

(773) 783-1251

Coverage Areas: CHATHAM-SOUTHEAST

Shaymar Media Productions LLC

Promoting you using TV, Radio, Videos, Google Awards & Social Networking WE Make Great TV Shows! Call Us Today! 773-416-7555 http://shaymarmedia.com shaymarmedia@gmail.com

SOUTH END

CALL US TODAY AT:

Washington Heights, Roseland, Rosemoor, Englewood, West Englewood, Auburn-Gresham, Morgan Park, Maple Park, Mt. Vernon, Fernwood, Bellevue, Beverly, Pullman, West Pullman, West Pullman, Riverdale, Jeffrey Manor and Hegewisch.

CREDIT RESTORATION SERVICES

(218) 833-3769 9:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m

SOUTH SUBURBAN Serves communities in Harvey, Markham, Phoenix, Robbins, Dixmoor, Calumet Park, Blue Island, South Holland, and Dolton. Shopping- their favorite pastime!

PLACE YOUR AD IN THIS SPACE CALL US AT (773) 783-1251.

THE THREE GREATEST FINANCIAL RISKS YOU FACE TODAY

Chatham, Avalon Park, Park Manor, Greater Grand Crossing, Burnside, Chesterfield, West Chersterfield, South Shore,and Calumet Heitghts.

RESTORE YOUR CREDIT SCORE TODAY!

HYDE PARK

Lake Meadows, Oakland, Prairie Shores, Douglas, Grand Boulevard, Kenwood, Woodland, South Shore and Hyde Park.

CHICAGO WEEKEND

Chicago Westside Communities, Austin and Garfield Park

sudoku answer

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 | South End | Week of Jan. 13, 2021

On this day when we honor Martin Luther King Jr., we remember his unwavering commitment to community. By rallying others towards a just cause, he showed anything can be achieved when we come together towards a goal. Celebrate with us at aarp.org/chicago