South End Citizen 1-30-2019 by CITIZEN NEWSPAPERS

WALMART ANNOUNCES DRIVER WAGE INVESTMENT IN ILLINOIS — PAGE 3

Citizen Week of Jan. 30, 2019

| Vol. 51 | No. 51 | www.thechicagocitizen.com

SOUTH END

Maya French (pictured) is the co-founder of Koia, a healthy and 100% plantbased protein beverage, and was recently named one of Forbes 30 Under 30 for 2019. Photo Credit: Chicago Citizen Newspaper

CHICAGO NATIVE MAKES FORBES 30 UNDER 30 LIST

BUSINESS

FASHION

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Survey: Lack of skills is the top reason employable adults can’t find jobs

ENTERTAINMENT

Kat Von D Beauty Partners with Sephora for 2019 Beauty Insider Program

Mayor Fischer celebrates decision to rename Louisville airport to honor Muhammad Ali PAGE 8

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2 | CITIZEN | South End | Week of Jan. 30, 2019

NEWS briefly EDUCATION

NATIONAL SCHOOL CHOICE WEEK 2019 KICKS OFF National School Choice Week 2019 kicked off recently with the largest series of education-focused events and activities in American history. More than 10.8 million people were expected to participate in a record-breaking 40,549 events and activities during the week. Events — which included thousands of school fairs, information sessions, and open houses in addition to 70 large-scale celebrations — helped to inform families about the different K-12 schools available to their children. The event has been celebrated since 2011, with continued and significant year-over-year growth in participation. In addition to events and activities, elected officials from all levels of government use the week to encourage parents to explore the education options for their children.

HEALTH

TRIS PHARMA ISSUES VOLUNTARY NATIONWIDE RECALL OF INFANTS’ IBUPROFEN CONCENTRATED ORAL SUSPENSION, USP (NSAID) 50 MG PER 1.25 ML, DUE TO POTENTIAL HIGHER CONCENTRATIONS OF IBUPROFEN Tris Pharma, Inc. has voluntarily recalled three (3) lots of Infants’ Ibuprofen Concentrated Oral Suspension, USP (NSAID) 50 mg per 1.25 mL, to the retail level. The recalled lots of the product have been found to potentially have higher concentrations of ibuprofen. There is a remote possibility that infants, who may be more susceptible to a higher potency level of drug, and therefore may be more vulnerable to permanent NSAID-associated renal injury. Adverse effects that may be experienced are nausea, vomiting, epigastric pain, or more rarely, diarrhea. Tinnitus, headache and gastrointestinal bleeding are also possible adverse effects. Consumers with questions regarding this recall can contact Tris Customer Service at 732-940-0358 (Monday through Friday, 8:00am ET- 5:00pm PT) or via email at Customer Service Email . Consumers should contact their physician or healthcare provider if they have experienced any problems that may be related to taking or using this drug product.

LAW & POLITICS

MCAI: FORMER SENATOR TO REPLACE NEW LABOR DIRECTOR KLEINIK AS ALLIANCE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR The Medical Cannabis Alliance of Illinois recently announced that former State Sen. Pam Althoff is MCAI’s new Executive Director, replacing Michael Kleinik who is leaving for a top post in new Gov. J.B. Pritzker’s Administration. Kleinik, who led the Alliance in 2018, was named by Gov. Pritzker as Director of the Illinois Department of Labor. Althoff, who retired from the Illinois Senate last summer and now has her own Statehouse lobbying firm, joins MCAI in the lead role. MCAI is a trade association based in Springfield formed to represent cultivation centers and dispensaries licensed under the state’s Compassionate Use of Medical Cannabis Pilot Program. MCAI’s goal is to promote the medicinal benefits of cannabis, safe delivery of medical cannabis and overall growth of the industry while ensuring the public’s general welfare is promoted and protected. Kleinik’s professional career includes a long tenure in law enforcement, including Sheriff of Fayette County in southern Illinois in the 1990s. He then served with the Laborers’ union for more than 15 years, including 10 years as Executive Director of the Chicago Laborers’ District Council, Labor-Management Cooperation Committee. Althoff is a former mayor who represented Chicago’s far northwest suburbs in the Illinois Senate since 2003. MCAI President Larry O’Hern said, “As the Legislature debates cannabis issues this year, including legalizing adult use of cannabis, MCAI will be at the table with strong leadership to provide the critical insight our legislators need to make the right decisions about cannabis policy in Illinois.”

Chicago Native Makes Forbes 30 Under 30 List Continued from page 1 BY KATHERINE NEWMAN

Maya French, a successful young entrepreneur from Chicago, was recently added to the Forbes 30 Under 30 list for 2019. French was also recently recognized by Cook County Commissioner Stanley Moore along with the entire Cook County Board of Commissioners for her entrepreneurial accomplishments. As the co-founder of Koia, a healthy and 100% plant-based protein beverage, French found success at an early age. Since developing Koia in 2013 with her co-founder Dustin Baker their affordable, organic, and vegan protein drink has grown to now being sold at over 4,000 retail stores across the U.S. including Whole Foods, Wal-Mart, Publix, and Stop & Shop. As of now, Koia is projected to generate $10 million dollars in annual sales, according to a press release from the Office of Cook County Commissioner Stanley Moore.

“Koia is a plant-based beverage and it has 18 grams of protein and only four grams of sugar and it’s actually the best tasting plant-based beverage on the market. We have three different fruit flavors and we also just launched a keto line exclusive to Whole Foods and we have three flavors of that as well,” said French. At the time when Koia was created, French said she was in college and on a McDonalds and Walgreens diet. Around that same time she realized that she was lactose intolerant. From that point, she began to collaborate and make juices with Baker and together they decided to create an entirely plant-based and vegan protein drink. “We decided that we were going to create the cleanest juice on the market and we went into the kitchen and started making almond milk and threw some chocolate in there and chia seeds. We had all these natural ingredients and were wondering why no one had come up with this yet. It was a huge hit,” said French. “Next

thing we know, we were like the second best selling beverage at some of the stores in Chicago.” In recognizing the achievements of French, Commissioner Moore said that he is committed to the development of minority and women-owned small businesses in his district and throughout all of Cook County. “I am proud to recognize the accomplishments of Maya French, a young black female entrepreneur and small business owner who was born and raised in the 4th District,” said Commissioner Moore.” “Maya’s story of hard work, dedication, and persistence to see her vision for a consumer-packaged-goods company to come to reality is an inspiration to us all and particularly women in Cook County and across the nation. It is my hope that other women will follow in Maya French’s footsteps and actively pursue their passions in life.” To learn more about Koia visit www.drinkkoia.com.

Year Long Pop-Up Will Help Business Owners Reach South Side Consumers BY KATHERINE NEWMAN

The South Shore Chamber of Commerce has partnered with 37 Oaks to develop the Artisan Collective which will soon be opening at 1750 E. 71st St. and will serve as a year-round pop-up shop in the community. The goal is to help small business owners expand their reach and grow their businesses while providing South Shore residents with the opportunity to shop locally. The South Shore Chamber of Commerce operates with a mission of advancing commercial interests in South Shore, promoting business ethics, expanding the range of goods and services, and attracting and sustaining new business in the South Shore community, according to the South Shore Chamber of Commerce website. 37 Oaks is an organization that provides retail consulting for growing retailers, brands and economic development organizations, according

The Artisan Collective will soon be opening at 1750 E. 71st St. in South Shore and will serve as a year-round pop-up shop in the community. Photo Credit: Provided by 37 Oaks

to the 37 Oaks website. “The South Shore Chamber of Commerce and 37 Oaks connected because South Shore is evolving and they have a lot of opportunities there especially with retail,” said Terrand Smith, founder and CEO of 37 Oaks. One retail opportunity that currently exists in South Shore is the growing number of entrepreneurs that already have brands and products that they are selling out of their homes or online. Also a growing number of outside businesses are beginning to take interest in the buying power of the community. The second retail opportunity that exists is the communities vacant storefronts which can

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easily serve as new homes for interested businesses that find success through the Artesian Collective, according to Smith. “We want to get those retailers that are in their homes and selling from their homes and online into storefronts along with brands that want to expand and really target the South Shore market,” said Smith. The Artisan Collective is a unique pop-up model in that it will operate year round. Most pop-up shops only last for about three months, according to Smith. “It’s year-round so we can have different cohorts or groups of brands that can come in every 8 to 12 weeks and sell their

products, understand the market, and get customer feedback. We will also have an overlay of educational curriculum that teaches them how to develop their retail acumen and that’s really what these cohorts will be designed to do,” said Smith. The brands and vendors that are represented in the Artisan Collective will be changing regularly and at any given time there will be a number of business and products available. “There will be multiple brands and multiple vendors in this space, it won’t just be one vendor, it will be multiple. So we will be looking for different categories like clothing, beauty, art, accessories and there will be a collection of them there,” said Smith. “We are trying to create this new concept and this new model that will really help revitalize our areas.” For more information about the Artisan Collective and to learn about selling at the pop-up call 773-955-9508.

CITIZEN | South End | Week of Jan. 30, 2019

NEWS

All Marijuana Convictions set to be expunged BY WENDELL HUTSON Contributing Writer

If Cook County State’s Attorney Kim Foxx makes good on her plan to expunge all misdemeanor marijuana convictions, it means Robert Griffin could soon become a banker. Almost 15 years ago, Griffin, 42, said he plead guilty to a misdemeanor drug possession charge after Chicago police found a small amount of marijuana in his car during a traffic stop. Since pleading guilty Griffin said his dreams of working at a bank have diminished even though he is a college graduate with a master’s degree in business administration. “That drug possession is the only criminal record I have and I know it’s because of that conviction that I cannot get hired working as a banker,” contends Griffin. “I have always wanted to be a banker and not a manager at a currency exchange, which is where I currently work. Maybe now, if I can get this conviction erased, I can finally get paid doing something that I love.” Griffin’s story, as well as others like it, form the basis of why Foxx said she wants to expunge marijuana convictions for everyone, which she said includes thousands and thousands of people. “This office has been moving away from marijuana cases even before I took office,” Foxx told the Citizen. “Moving forward, individuals

Cook County State’s Attorney Kim Foxx recently announced her intent to expunge all misdemeanor marijuana convictions now that she supports proposed legislation to legalize marijuana use. Photo by Wendell Hutson

charged with misdemeanor marijuana cases will either be diverted to treatment centers or the case will not be filed at all.” At press time, records for marijuana convictions in Cook County since 2012 were available by the Cook County State’s Attorney Office or the Clerk of the Circuit Court Office. According to Foxx, people with drug convictions need treatment not incarceration. “What we need is to invest in

public health because drug addiction is a public health crisis. There’s this vicious cycle in society that’s been going on for decades that has not produced results where we arrest people for drug possession and lock them up,” said Foxx. “This only makes it harder for people to find work and housing.” Drug convictions can have lasting effects on people, said Barbara Lumpkin, interim president and chief executive officer at the Chicago Urban League. “For decades, African Americans

and other communities of color have been disproportionately impacted by the criminalization of certain drug use, which can make it harder for individuals to find employment or housing, even years after a misdemeanor conviction,” added Lumpkin. In December 2016, Foxx was elected the first, black female Cook County State’s Attorney and said she knows first hand how hard times can be for people especially minorities. As a young child, she once lived in the Cabrini Green public housing complex on the Near West Side. And today, she keeps a small brick from the former low-income housing development on her desk, “to remind me where I came from,” she said. In Illinois, a Class A misdemeanor conviction for marijuana possession carries a penalty of court supervision or up to one year incarceration. An expungement is a court-ordered process in which the legal record of an arrest or a criminal conviction is sealed or erased, thus preventing anyone except law enforcement agencies from seeing a conviction. Normally Cook County individuals must apply for an expungement at the Clerk of the Circuit Court Office and pay a $60 fee. But Foxx said individuals can also come to her office for assistance and the fee would be waived for marijuana convictions. “In the interest of justice, we are not asking people to pay for expungements. This is our initiative,” said Foxx.

She added that regardless if people do not apply for an expungemnt her office plans to ultimately vacate all marijuana convictions. “Data shows that when doing this type of work only about 3 percent of people with convictions will actively come and get their record expunged,” added Foxx. “We are using our discretion that based on our resources we need to focus on more violent crimes.” However, Foxx cautioned that possession of marijuana is still illegal in Illinois and police will continue to make arrests. Even so, Foxx said she does not think it is a waste of time for police officers to arrest people for possession even though her office does not plan to prosecute. Many police departments are opposed to legalizing marijuana. Police Supt. Eddie Johnson was unavailable for comment. But not all law enforcement officers oppose legalizing marijuana or expunging marijuana convictions. “As a retired Chicago police officer, I have been on record in support of recreational marijuana with stipulations,” said Richard Wooten, a Chatham resident and president of the nonprofit Greater Chatham Alliance. “Our prisons are filled with African Americans convicted on small amounts of marijuana. I am in full support of State’s Attorney Kim Foxx’s decision to either diverting or not filing small amounts of marijuana cases.”

Walmart Announces Driver Wage Investment in Illinois Walmart recently announced an investment in driver wages. This investment represents Walmart’s commitment to maintaining its position as one of the best jobs in the transportation industry and the importance of recruiting and retaining the best drivers. Beginning in February, drivers will receive a per mile increase of $0.01 and a 50-cent increase in activity pay for arrive and arrive/drop occurrences. That means Walmart drivers will now be paid up to $1 every time they arrive at their destination and drop a trailer. With this increase, Walmart drivers can earn an average of $87,500 in their first year of employment with an all-in rate of nearly 89 cents per mile. “Truck drivers are a critical part of our team here at Walmart and have been since Sam Walton started the private truck fleet in the 1970s,” said Greg Smith, executive vice president of Walmart U.S. Supply Chain. “Our professional drivers are part of what makes Walmart so special. This wage increase reflects the importance of our private fleet and our commitment to recruiting and retaining the best drivers in

Walmart recently announced an investment in driver wages. Beginning in February, drivers will receive a per mile increase of $0.01 and a 50-cent increase in activity pay for arrive and arrive/drop occurrences.

the industry.” “The modern trucking industry operates in every aspect of economic life, delivering everything from textbooks and medical supplies to retail goods and construction

materials and truck drivers are an essential component of ensuring the trucking industry remains healthy in our state,” Matt Hart, executive director of the Illinois Trucking Association. “Walmart’s drivers set a high

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industry benchmark for professionalism and performance and we applaud Walmart’s commitment to retaining and recruiting highly talented individuals for their private fleet.” This wage increase is the latest step from Walmart to maintain the strength of its professional trucking fleet. Walmart’s drivers are helping the company recruit the best drivers, and the company is seeing an increase in referrals. The company also dramatically revamped its hiring and onboarding program, shortening the application and onboarding time by more than 50 percent. Each year, Walmart’s 8,000 drivers travel over 700 million miles and deliver millions of cases of merchandise to Walmart and Sam’s Club 4,700 locations across the nation — all while remaining one of the largest and safest fleets on the road, according to a press release. Walmart drivers are among the most experienced as well. To drive for Walmart, a commercial driver must have at least 30 months of full-time experience with no serious traffic violations in the last three years. To apply to drive for Walmart, visit drive4walmart.com.

4 | CITIZEN | South End | Week of Jan. 30, 2019

BUSINESS Survey: Lack of skills is the top reason employable adults can’t ﬁnd jobs

Americans say the top reason employable adults can't find work or have given up looking is they lack the skills for the jobs they want, according to the latest ASA Workforce Monitor.

More than half of Americans (54%) agree that employable adults aren't working today because they don't possess the skills they need for the jobs they want, according to the results of a new American Staffing Association Workforce Monitor® survey conducted online by The Harris Poll. The other top reasons Americans believe job seekers can't find employment—or have even entirely stopped looking for work—are: ● Few jobs are available in their specific field, trade, or skill set (45%) ● Limited job opportunities exist where they live (33%) ● They require a job with flexible working hours (26%) ● They are too discouraged to keep looking (24%) Americans are divided when asked if they think the U.S. is currently a job seekers' market or an employers' market. After being offered definitions, four in 10 (44%) say it is a job seekers' market—where there are many opportunities available—while a similar proportion (38%) say it

is an employers' market—where opportunities for jobs seekers are limited. "The ASA Workforce Monitor found that despite the tightest job market in history, the public perceives that many people can't find work due to a skills gap," said Richard Wahlquist, ASA president and chief executive officer. "This gap is real, but with close to seven million job openings in America, it's clearly a job seeker's market with an abundance of opportunity." To learn more about the ASA Workforce Monitor, visit americanstaffing.net/ workforcemonitor. You can also follow ASA research on Twitter. Method: The Harris Poll conducted the survey online within the U.S. on behalf of ASA, Nov. 7–9, 2018, among a total of 2,021 U.S. adults age 18 and older. Results were weighted on age, education, race/ ethnicity, household income, and geographic region where necessary to bring them into line with their actual proportions in the U.S. population

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Americans are divided in their opinions on the state of the U.S. job market, according to the latest ASA Workforce Monitor.

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Caribou Coffee recently announced that John Butcher has been appointed President & CEO. Butcher has served as President of Caribou Coffee since joining the company in June of 2017. "Since John joined our company, we've witnessed an increased focus on Caribou's people and culture, resulting in quarter after-quarter performance gains and the highest guest satisfaction ratings we've ever seen at Caribou," says Mike Tattersfield, Chairman, Coffee & Bagel Brands. "I am humbled and honored to lead such an iconic Midwestern brand," says Butcher. "Every day at Caribou, we have the opportunity to help people start their morning with an amazing,

locally roasted cup of coffee and a great interaction. It's a moment that can make a person's day and I think that's truly rewarding." Before coming to Caribou Coffee in 2017, Butcher spent 20 years at Minneapolis-based Target and held a variety of Merchandising and Marketing leadership roles including Senior Vice President of Merchandising, Beauty and Dermstore, Senior Vice President of Merchandising Category Roles and Senior Vice President of Merchandising at Target Canada Co. Butcher graduated from Indiana University's Kelley School of Business. Butcher replaces Sarah Spiegel as President & CEO of Caribou Coffee.

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CITIZEN | South End | Week of Jan. 30, 2019

NEWS

Identifying the Root Cause of Your Child’s Seizure is Critical: What to Ask Your Doctor State Point - By the time Jaxson O’Brien was finally diagnosed with a form of Batten disease, his family had been to three doctors, endured countless hospital visits and tried nine different medications -- all the while still having more than 100 seizures a day. “We believed his epilepsy diagnosis was conclusive, but the seizures continued and we still had no answers as to why this was happening,” says Angella O’Brien, his mother. “We were frustrated, but we knew that we needed to keep searching for the underlying cause of his epilepsy.” There are many different causes of epilepsy. Some of these causes may be due to genetic changes or variations, even if no one in the family has epilepsy. Fortunately, genetic testing is shortening the diagnostic odyssey for many families dealing with childhood seizures. Indeed, after undergoing an epilepsy gene panel, the O’Briens finally received a conclusive diagnosis of CLN2, a form of Batten disease and an ultra-rare and rapidly-progressing pediatric brain disorder. The first sign is typically a seizure between the ages of 2 and 4. From there, the condition rapidly progresses to dementia and the loss of vision and of the ability to walk and talk. Jaxon’s diagnosis enabled the O’Briens to

end the search for an answer. The symptomatic overlap between different disorders that trigger seizures can make diagnosis challenging. However, today, comprehensive genetic testing can be used to efficiently diagnose some children who’ve experienced seizures. “More than 50 percent of epilepsies have some genetic basis, and early testing may be the most direct, cost-effective and accurate diagnostic tool for childhood epilepsies,” says Dr. Sookyong Koh, pediatric neurologist at Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta at Emory University. “Epilepsy gene panels are a type of genetic test that looks specifically at genes that could be causing your child’s seizure. In some cases, knowing a child’s epilepsy is related to a genetic disease could lead to better, more tailored care options for the child.” Dr. Koh recommends that parents ask their child’s doctor about epilepsy gene panels. Visit CanEpilepsyBeGenetic.com for more information on genetic testing and how to talk to a doctor. “We’ve learned firsthand the importance of awareness and early screening,” says O’Brien. “We are thankful that we were able to finally understand the root cause of his seizures and what we can expect for the future.”

Your Vote Matters! Remember To Cast Your Ballot

Tuesday February 26, 2019

“More than 50 percent of epilepsies have some genetic basis, and early testing may be the most direct, cost-effective and accurate diagnostic tool for childhood epilepsies,” says Dr. Sookyong Koh, pediatric neurologist at Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta at Emory University.

6 | CITIZEN | South End | Week of Jan. 30, 2019

FASHION Kat Von D Beauty Partners with Sephora for 2019 Beauty Insider Program

Kat Von D Beauty invites Sephora Beauty Insiders to celebrate their birthday with a complimentary mini-set of its award-winning, high-performance vegan products.

Kat Von D Beauty invites Sephora Beauty Insiders to celebrate their birthday with a complimentary mini-set of its award-winning, highperformance vegan products. One of the exclusive makeup offerings available throughout all of 2019, the set features sample sizes of three of Kat Von D Beauty's highly coveted, top-selling products including: Tattoo Liner, Lock-It Setting

Powder, and Studded Kiss Crème Lipstick. Not a Sephora Beauty Insider? No problem! Beauty Insider is Sephora's free-to-join loyalty program that offers unique rewards and experiences across three spending tiers. Clients can easily sign up via the homepage of Sephora.com, the Sephora app or at their local Sephora store.

DON’T DIET SOLO: Study Reveals Ongoing Support Key to Weight Loss StatePoint - For many, weight loss is a constant struggle, full of frustration, fad diets and forgotten workout DVDs. But it doesn’t have to be that way. New research reveals a critical element that can make all the difference between an ongoing health struggle and successfully shedding excess weight -- and keeping it off long-term. The secret? Don’t fly solo when it comes to trying to lose weight. The study, published in the Journal of the American Medical Association, discovered that individuals following structured weight loss programs with support were more likely to lose weight and more likely to keep off the weight, than those who did not. The findings were drawn from the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF), which used the results of the study to update their 2018 statement to officially recommend programs with ongoing support for adults with a body mass index of 30 or higher. For the average American struggling with lasting weight loss, the study’s findings are clear. Based on a review of 100 weight loss and weight maintenance programs, the best results came from structured programs that included regular in-person meetings, meetings that provide education and personal connection; and a holistic approach. Weight loss experts also point to the benefits of comprehensive programs – such as Jenny Craig – in helping those seeking to lose weight learn how to keep it off for good. “This peer-reviewed study, published in one of the most reputable medical journals, provides valuable direction for healthcare providers and consumers who are looking for scientifically-sound guidance as they strive for optimal health and weight management,” says Dr. Pamela Peeke, chair of the Jenny Craig Science Advisory Board. “This new recommendation highlights the importance of ongoing support in weight management.” Today, more than 35 percent of men and 40 percent of women in the U.S. are obese. Obesity is associated with a wide range of health problems, including increased risk for coronary heart disease, type 2 diabetes, various types of cancer, gallstones, physical disability and an increased risk for death, particularly among adults younger than 65. With more than 100 million U.S. adults living with type 2 diabetes or

If you are embarking on a weight loss effort, consider how ongoing support and science-driven structure can help you achieve lasting results.

prediabetes, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), finding effective and sustainable weight loss methods is critical for a large portion of Americans. “Jenny Craig has understood the importance of offering support for more than 35 years; it is the cornerstone of our program,” says Jenny Craig CEO and president, Monty Sharma.

“Personalized human guidance not only keeps people motivated, but also allows for a customized approach for each individual and their life situation.” Members of the program meet weekly with their personal consultant one-on-one to discuss their progress, create customized meal plans, address challenges and plan the week ahead. Of

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note, the study found strongest success among those who met at least every two weeks, with those meeting more often seeing even better results. If you are embarking on a weight loss effort, consider how ongoing support and sciencedriven structure can help you achieve lasting results.

CITIZEN | South End | Week of Jan. 30, 2019

CITIZEN On The Move

Photo by Jerome Simmons mrmagriot@aol.com

Friends of Alderman Walter Burnett (27th Ward) Feted At Fundraiser

Pictured Left to Right : John Hooker, Chicago Public Schools; Angel Perez, ComEd; Alderman Walter Burnett and Reverend Walter Turner of New Spiritual Lght Missionary Baptist Church.

Mike Meagher, V.P. Mc Hugh Construction and Larry Huggins, CEO Rightway Huggins Construction.

Josphine Wade, CEO Josphine HardTimes Restaurant and Aldermnan Walter Burnett (27th).

Alderman Walter Burnett (27th) and Curtis J. Tarver II, (25th) State Representative.

Everett Rand, Midway Wholesalers and Fawn Smith Government Afffairs Manager Comcast.

Melisa Washington, ComEd and Alderman Walter Burnett.

Left to Right: Kimberly Scott, Starbucks, Janice Garth, General Manager Citizen Newsapers; Alderman Walter Burnett and Rosemary Reed. Alderman Walter Burnett and Darrell Garth, CEO Citizen Newspaper Group Inc.

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8 | CITIZEN | South End | Week of Jan. 30, 2019

ENTERTAINMENT

Mayor Fischer celebrates decision to rename Louisville airport to honor Muhammad Ali Mayor Greg Fischer said he is pleased and proud of a recent decision by the Louisville Regional Airport Authority Board to rename the city’s airport for its native son, Muhammad Ali. The new name is Louisville Muhammad Ali International Airport. The airport’s three-letter International Air Transport Association Location Identifier – SDF – will not change. “Muhammad Ali belonged to the world, but he only had one hometown, and fortunately, that is our great city of Louisville. Muhammad became one of the most well-known people to ever walk the Earth and has left a legacy of humanitarianism and athleticism that has inspired billions of people,” the Mayor said. “It’s important that we, as a city, further champion The Champ’s legacy, and the airport renaming is a wonderful next step.” The vote came after a recommendation from a board working group that had studied renaming for more than a year. “This is a historic day for the airport and our region,” said Jim Welch, chair of the Airport Authority Board. “By choosing to rename the airport for Muhammad Ali, a world-renowned humanitarian honored as a United Nations Messenger of Peace and an athlete honored as Sports Illustrated’s Sportsman of the 20th Century, we as a community are honoring his legacy and celebrating this global icon who is a fellow Louisvillian. This tells the world how proud we are to associate ‘The Greatest’ with not only our great city, but our great airport.” Muhammad Ali’s widow, Lonnie Ali said, “I am proud that the Louisville Regional Airport Authority and the City of Louisville are supportive of changing the name of the Louisville International Airport to reflect Muhammad’s impact on the city and his love for his hometown. I am happy that visitors from

The Louisville Regional Airport Authority Board recently decided to rename the city’s airport for its native son, Muhammad Ali (pictured).

far and wide who travel to Louisville will have another touch point to Muhammad and be reminded of his open and inclusive nature, which is reflective of our city. Muhammad was a global citizen, but he never forgot the city that gave him his start. It is a fitting testament to his legacy.” The Airport Authority Board also authorized an agreement with Muhammad Ali Enterprises, LLC for use of Ali’s name. Citing research showing that Muhammad Ali has much greater name recognition than Louisville, Ky., Mayor Fischer said the airport renaming is just one piece of a much broader effort to share and celebrate Ali’s Louisville ties, and he’s organizing a community work group to develop plans to do that. As the city of Ali’s birth, and the place that throughout his life he proclaimed as “the greatest city in the world,” the Mayor said, “It is our obligation and opportunity to showcase the many stories and complexities that made up the man known as ‘The Greatest of All Time.’” Elevating and further celebrating Ali as a hometown hero complements the city’s Lean Into Louisville initiative,

"OUR DUTY TO SPEAK"

The Guardian," an exhibit depicting the struggle from a victim to a victor, currently adorns the Renaissance Court gallery at the Chicago Cultural Center. Posing by the exhibit (left) is Gerald Griffin, a painter, sculptor and poet, who produced this art. The work forms part of the Eight Black Men Art Exhibition titled, "Our Duty to Speak," at the gallery running now through March 1 as part of Black History Month activities. The exhibition is free and open to the public. An opening reception for the exhibition will be held at the gallery on Friday, Feb. 1 from 5 - 8 p.m.

which is a series of conversations, presentations, activities and art exhibits to confront the history and legacy of all forms of discrimination and inequality. “Certainly, Muhammad faced discrimination and the impact of inequality, and he wasn’t shy about sharing his views on those challenges,” the Mayor said. “Lean Into Louisville embraces the Champ’s values of Confidence, Conviction, Dedication, Giving, Respect and Spirituality and our city value of compassion. And if he were here, I feel certain that the ‘Louisville Lip’ would be a part of this conversation.” Championing The Champ also is consistent with the work that the Brookings Institution has identified as beneficial in growing Louisville’s global identity.

Louisville Tourism confirms that the city stands to reap economic benefits by boosting Ali-related tourism, much as the city has done in establishing Bourbonism as a global tourist experience. “Louisville Tourism applauds the proposal to reflect the legacy of the city’s most famous son,” said Karen Williams, its president and CEO. “Adding Muhammad Ali’s name to the Louisville International Airport reminds travelers from around the world that our city is a place to have a touchpoint with one of the most recognized icons of all time. It supports current marketing efforts to engage in Ali’s ‘Footsteps of Greatness’ as a reason to inspire visitation to Louisville.” Donald Lassere, president and chief executive officer of the Muhammad Ali

Center said the center, “is proud of the Louisville Regional Airport Authority for their forward-thinking decision regarding the airport’s name change.” “During the week between Muhammad’s passing and his memorial service in 2016, our city witnessed firsthand just how much Muhammad Ali meant to the world. Visitors flocked to Louisville from nearly every region of the globe to pay their respects to their champion,” Lassere said. “At the Ali Center, we experienced a tremendous increase in visitors, and the city received continual global media coverage. We are confident that with this announcement, Louisville will continue to be seen around the world as a bold, compassionate city, and prompt an increase in visitors to all our great attractions.”

Firebrand Theatre Announces Full Casting for Chicago Premiere of QUEEN OF THE MIST CHICAGO - Firebrand Theatre has announced full casting for its Chicago premiere of QUEEN OF THE MIST featuring book, music and lyrics by Michael John LaChiusa (The Wild Party, Marie Christine), direction by Elizabeth Margolius and music direction by Charlotte Rivard-Hoster. QUEEN OF THE MIST will feature Barbara E. Robertson as Anna (Annie) Edson Taylor with Maryam Abdi (Barker), Neala Barron (Jane, Anna u/s), Brianna Buckley (New Manager), Max Cervantes (Frank Russell), Liz Chidester (Carrie), and Hannah Starr (Young Soldier). Understudies/ swings include: Billy Dawson, Adelina FeldmanSchultz, Cari Meixner and Sarah Ohlson. QUEEN OF THE MIST will play May

25 – July 6, 2019 at The Den Theatre’s Janet Bookspan Theatre, 1331 N. Milwaukee Ave. in Chicago. Single tickets are currently available at firebrandtheatre.org. QUEEN OF THE MIST is based on the true story of Anna (Annie) Edson Taylor, who in 1901 set out to be the first person to go over the Niagara Falls in a barrel of her own design. Navigating both the treacherous Falls and a fickle public with a ravenous appetite for sensationalism, this unconventional heroine vies for her legacy in a world clamoring with swindling managers, assassins, revolutionaries, moralizing family, anarchists and activists. With a soaring score that incorporates turn of the century themes with LaChiusa’s signature complexity and insight,

QUEEN OF THE MIST is the story of a single great fall, and how one woman risked death so that she could live. Firebrand is the first musical theatre company committed to employing and empowering women by expanding opportunities on and off the stage. PRODUCTION DETAILS: Title: QUEEN OF THE MIST Book, Music and Lyrics by Michael John LaChiusa Director: Elizabeth Margolius Music Director: Charlotte Rivard-Hoster Cast (in alphabetical order): Maryam Abdi (Barker, others), Neala Barron (Jane, others), Brianna Buckley (New Manager, others), Max Cervantes (Frank Russell), Liz Chidester (Carrie, others), Barbara E. Robertson (Anna Edson

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Taylor) and Hannah Starr (Young Soldier, others). Understudies/swings: Billy Dawson, Adelina Feldman-Schultz, Cari Meixner and Sarah Ohlson, Location: The Den Theatre’s Janet Bookspan Theatre 1331 N. Milwaukee Ave. Dates: Previews: Saturday, May 25 at 7:30 pm and Sunday, May 26 at 3 pm Regular run: Thursday, May 30 – Saturday, July 6, 2019 Curtain Times: Thursdays, Fridays & Saturdays at 7:30 pm; Sundays at 3 pm Industry Night: Wednesday, July 3 at 7:30 pm Tickets: Previews $25. Regular run $55. $20 students/industry rush tickets available at the box office.

CITIZEN | South End | Week of Jan. 30, 2019

NEWS The Area Continues To Host Screenings Around Chicago And Across The Country BY KATHERINE NEWMAN

A free screening was recently hosted by Southside Together Organizing for Power (STOP) at the Woodlawn Resource Center to allow community members to see and discuss The Area, a documentary film that portrays the five-year journey of a south side neighborhood where more than 400 African-American families were being displaced by a multi-billion dollar freight company. “The film is really about a neighborhood on the south side of Chicago and is expressed through Deborah Payne’s experience and other community members. It’s particularly really focused around this idea that Deborah puts so clearly in the film which is that its a film about respect and demanding respect and it’s a film that’s about community,” said David Schalliol, director, cinematographer, and producer of The Area. Like most screenings of The Area, the recent screening hosted by STOP was followed by a panel discussion that featured Deborah Payne, the films protagonist and co-producer, Brian Ashby, co-producer and editor of The Area, and members of

The Area, a documentary film that portrays the five-year journey of a south side neighborhood where more than 400 African-American families were being displaced by a multi-billion dollar freight company, was recently screened at the Woodlawn Resource Center. Photo Credit: David Schalliol

the Obama Library CBA Coalition. Together the group discussed their perspectives on displacement and the lessons they have learned through fighting it. “I would say that it’s a film about a community where life was interrupted abruptly by the railroad announcing to us that they were gonna make

an intermodal out of our homes and unbeknownst to us, the process had already been taking place for quite some time and it was a done deal. They expected us to be able to digest that and work with the people, that they gave us, to leave the area,” said Payne. The filmmakers followed the south

side community for over a five-year period, and in the documentary you can see the Norfolk Southern Railway transform 85 acres of homes into an empty prairie land as they proceed with their plan to expand their intermodal freight terminal into the area. “This film is about how people

felt about their homes, not their houses, but their homes. Homes are something that is within your heart and there are memories that create attachments to that house. So, it was getting detached and thinking about what community you can go to and the safety of that community and the livelihood of your kids and getting seniors to understand it,” said Payne. “It was to me, the strength of the community coming together and becoming educated on how to handle such a disaster like that.” The Area has almost exclusively been viewable through screenings which have been taking place for close to a year. Both Payne and Schalliol said they have had a remarkable experience screening the film and they have enjoyed receiving direct feedback from viewers through the panel discussions that they have been hosting. “I like the closeness of the screenings and I like the idea that viewers feel that I’m close enough to them to really talk,” said Payne. For more information and to see a schedule of upcoming screenings visit www.theareafilm.com.

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CITIZEN | South End | Week of Jan. 30, 2019

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CITIZEN | South End | Week of Jan. 30, 2019

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CITIZEN | South End | Week of Jan. 30, 2019

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The Problem As people live longer, Alzheimer’s and other age-related dementias are on the rise, projected to reach more than 75 million people worldwide by 2030. To date, no effective therapy has been developed for these disorders, which are not only deadly but exact a high financial and emotional toll on society. The Research To find solutions, three large-scale research teams are exploring those questions as part of an initiative to merge research of the brain and the blood vessels to develop new understanding of—and, ultimately, better preventions and treatments for—age-related brain disorders such as Alzheimer’s disease. The Scientists To help, American Heart Association, the world’s leading voluntary organization focused on heart and brain health, and The Paul G. Allen Frontiers Group, a division of the Allen Institute, launched the $43 million research project to bridge the science of vascular and brain health through revolutionary, out-of-the-box thinking. Additional supporters include the Oskar Fischer Project and the Henrietta B. and Frederick H. Bugher Foundation. The three teams, headquartered at the Salk Institute for Biological Studies in La Jolla, Calif.; Stanford University School of Medicine in Stanford, Calif.; and University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center in Cleveland, OH, respectively, work to develop new solutions to the urgent problem of age-related cognitive decline. The researchers are: • “Rusty” Gage, Ph.D., a neuroscience researcher and president of Salk, who will lead an eight-year project looking into new targets for therapeutic research and biomarkers of early-stage cognitive decline. • Tony Wyss-Coray, Ph.D., a professor of neurology at Stanford, who will lead a four-year project studying how changes in the immune system affect cognitive health. • Mukesh K. Jain, M.D., a cardiologist at University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center and Professor of Medicine at Case Western Reserve University, who will lead a team of investigators on a four-year project investigating whether targeting red blood cells and blood vessels can prevent dementia. The Hope The research could yield transformational discoveries to better detect, treat and prevent cognitive decline. __________________________________

SERVICE

EDUCATION Join The School Choice Celebration

MISCELLANEOUS HEALTH If you or a loved one were diagnosed with OVARIAN CANCER or MESOTHELIOMA after use of TALCUM products such as BABY POWDER or SHOWER TO SHOWER, you may be entitled to compensation. Contact Charles H. Johnson 1-800-5355727 __________________________________ Stay in your home longer with an American Standard Walk-In Bathtub. Receive up to $1,500 off, including a free toilet, and a lifetime warranty on the tub and installation! Call us at 1-866-931-8891 __________________________________ SAVE ON YOUR NEXT PRESCRIPTION! World Health Link. Price Match Guarantee! Prescriptions Required. CIPA Certified. Over 1500 medications available. CALL Today For A Free Price Quote. 1-855-7184398 Call Now! __________________________________ INTERNET Earthlink High Speed Internet. As Low As $14.95/month (for the first 3 months.) Reliable High Speed Fiber Optic Technology. Stream Videos, Music and More! Call Earthlink Today 1-855-409-3253 __________________________________

LEGAL SERVICES NEED LEGAL HELP? Get a FREE referral to an attorney! Call the Illinois State Bar Association Illinois Lawyer Finder The advice you need 877-270-3855 or h t t ps : / / w w w. i s b a . o r g / p u b l i c / i l l i n o i s lawyerfinder __________________________________ TV/INTERNET Spectrum Triple Play! TV, Internet & Voice for $29.99 ea. 60 MB per second speed No contract or commitment. More Channels. Faster Internet. Unlimited Voice. Call 1877-649-4346 __________________________________ WANTED TO BUY FREON R12 WANTED: CERTIFIED BUYER will PAY CA$H for R12 cylinders or cases of cans. (312) 291-9169; www.refrigerantfinders.com __________________________________ TRAINING/EDUCATION AIRLINE CAREERS FOR NEW YEAR BECOME AN AVIATION MAINTENANCE TECH. FAA APPROVED TRAINING. FINANCIAL AID IF QUALIFIED - JOB PLACEMENT ASSISTANCE. CALL AIM 800-481-8312. __________________________________

This space can be yours. Place your ad today. Call us at (773) 783-1251. HEALTH & FITNESS New Brain Health Initiative Could Unlock Mysteries Of Alzheimer’s, Dementia (NAPSI)—Scientists are contemplating important questions about health, mind and age: Could your blood hold the molecular secrets to a fountain of youth, preventing age-related brain disorders? Are brain aging and Alzheimer’s disease caused by a failure of interconnected systems, triggering a dominolike cascade of disease? Can targeting the red blood cells and blood vessels jointly keep your brain healthy and prevent dementia?

(NAPSI)—Across the country, millions of students, teachers, parents and community leaders are gathering at more than 40,000 events and activities to celebrate National School Choice Week, January 20-26, though the idea of school choice can be something to be celebrated all through the year. Why? The answer is simple. Because of school choice, more and more students access a school or education setting that’s the right fit for them, helping them to a lifetime of success and happiness. During National School Choice Week, Americans celebrate all types of educational options—traditional public schools, public charter schools, magnet schools, private schools, online academies, and homeschooling. Parents involved in their children’s education, teachers and school leaders working to educate children according to their unique needs, passions and skills give children an opportunity to flourish. Many families start considering which school their child should attend next year. They might learn more about all the options available online at www.schoolchoiceweek.com. Families can attend an event planned to celebrate the Week at a nearby school or community group. Many teachers and school leaders will be there to connect with their students’ families and let them know how happy they are that they chose to be there. And many families will thank and praise the teachers and school leaders who work so tirelessly to educate their children. Learn More

For further facts on education from the experts, visit www.schoolchoiceweek.com. __________________________________

Darrell Garth

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Janice Garth Sales Manager General Manager

William Garth Sr. CEO Emeritus

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

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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@thechicagocitizen.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.

16 | CITIZEN | South End | Week of Jan. 30, 2019

Make rent a thing of the past. With a down payment as low as 3% for modest-income buyers, Bank of America makes affording a new home easier than ever.1 To get started call 1-800-641-8603 or visit your local financial center. BankofAmerica.com /FirstHome

Available for fixed-rate purchase loans with terms of 25 or 30 years and on primary residences only. Certain property types are ineligible. Borrower(s) must not have an individual or joint ownership interest in any other residential property at time of closing. Maximum purchase loan-to-value is 97% and maximum combined purchase loan-to-value is 103%. For loan-to-values >95% any secondary financing must be from an approved Community Second Program; ask for details. Homebuyer education may be required. Restrictions apply regarding co-borrowers. Maximum income and loan amount limits apply.

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Equal Housing Lender ÂŠ2018 Bank of America Corporation. Credit and collateral are subject to approval. Terms and conditions apply. This is not a commitment to lend. Programs, rates, terms and conditions are subject to change without notice. AR98CFM5