Chicago Weekend Citizen 3-11-2020 by CITIZEN NEWSPAPERS

CITIZEN ENDORSEMENT 2020 — PAGE 8

Citizen Week of March 11, 2020

| Vol. 51 | No. 11 | www.citizennewspapergroup.com

CHICAGO WEEKEND

A proposed state law, if passed into law, would require all gas stations to have at least one attendant available to pump gas for customers wanting full-service instead of self-service. Photo credit: Wendell Hutson

FULL SERVICE GAS STATIONS WOULD RETURN UNDER PROPOSED STATE LAW Not since the late 1970s has Chicago had a full-service gas station, but under proposed state legislation that would change next year. PAGE 2

ENTERTAINMENT

NEWS

BUSINESS

Commentary: Motown’s Celebrated Icons Started Churning Out Hits in 1965

5 Tips to Fight Sleep Deprivation

Southern Glazer’s Wine & Spirits Commits $1 Million To Thurgood Marshall College Fund

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2 | CITIZEN | Chicago Weekend | Week of March 11, 2020

NEWS briefly EDUCATION ILLINOIS RANKS NO. 1 FOR LARGEST YEAROVER-YEAR INCREASE IN THE PERCENTAGE OF GRADUATING STUDENTS SCORING A 3 OR HIGHER ON AN ADVANCED PLACEMENT EXAM The College Board has announced that Illinois ranks No. 1 among all states for charting the largest year-over-year increase in the percentage of public high school graduates scoring a 3 or higher on at least one Advanced Placement (AP) Exam during high school. Illinois’ rate of graduates scoring 3 or higher grew by 4 percent from 2018 to 2019. In the Class of 2019, 28.4 percent of students scored a 3 or higher on an AP Exam, compared to 27.3 percent in the Class of 2018. Scoring a 3 or higher on an AP Exam can earn students early college credit, saving families time and money toward a student’s degree. The College Board also announced that 23 Illinois high schools have earned the AP Computer Science Female Diversity Award for expanding young women’s access to AP computer science courses.

HEALTH

NOMINATIONS NOW BEING ACCEPTED FOR NFPA, HFSC BRINGING SAFETY HOME AWARD According to research by the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), the risk of dying in a reported home fire is 85 percent lower if sprinklers are present. In order to recognize the outstanding efforts by a safety advocate who diligently promotes the importance of home fire sprinklers, the NFPA and the Home Fire Sprinkler Coalition (HFSC) are now accepting nominations for their Bringing Safety Home Award. The Bringing Safety Home Award honors members of the fire service and other fire sprinkler advocates in North America who use HFSC educational material, NFPA data, and NFPA Fire Sprinkler Initiative resources to educate decision-makers on home fire sprinklers. These efforts are aimed at educating the public and policy makers to increase the use of home fire sprinklers in new homes. The award winner will receive a $1,000 grant to further fire sprinkler advocacy and educational efforts in their area. Visit NFPA’s Fire Sprinkler Initiative website to download the nomination form for the Bringing Safety Home Award; NFPA and HFSC are accepting nominations at firesprinklerinitiative@nfpa.org through March 27, 2020.

Full Service Gas Stations Would Return Under Proposed State Law Continued from page 1 BY WENDELL HUTSON Contributing Writer

Not since the late 1970s has Chicago had a full-service gas station, but under proposed state legislation that would change next year. In February, state Rep. Camille Lilly (D-78th), whose district includes Austin on the West Side, introduced House Bill 4571, which would create the Gas Station Attendant Act, and require all gas stations in Illinois to have at least one attendant to assist customers, such as seniors and the disabled, pump their gas and to monitor self-service customers to ensure they are pumping their gas safely. But Lilly said the bill would not eliminate self-service as some people feel it would if it becomes law in January 2021. “There’s no way I would try to take away the right to pump your own gas. I just want to make sure motorists have a choice and not always have to pump their own gas if they don’t want to,” Lilly told the Citizen. “There’s a safety component to all this too, which is my main reason for sponsoring House Bill 4571. Not everyone pumps their gas in a safe manner and I want to make sure no one is hurt as a result.” According to Lilly, gas stations are already required to have a staffer available to help the disabled with pumping gas, but “we know every gas station is probably not abiding by this mandate, so House Bill 4571 would help enforce it,” she said. Additionally, she said there’s a huge safety issue when you allow motorists to pump their own gas, such as leaving

the vehicle running while pumping gas, smoking and simply, “not paying attention when pumping gas,” and accidently spilling gasoline on the ground, Lilly added. The bill’s language, which Lilly said would ultimately be changed because, “House Bill 4571 is not intended to pass as is,” currently states, “No gas may be pumped at a gas station in this state unless it is pumped by a gas station attendant employed at the gas station.” Community reaction to the bill was swift by motorists and the Illinois Petroleum Marketer’s Association, a trade association that represents the gasoline industry. “I prefer to pump my own gas because I have trust issues,” said Veronica Shafffer, 25. “Maybe when it’s cold outside, it might be a good idea to have someone from the gas station pump your gas, but for me, I’ve been pumping gas my whole life and I don’t see any point in stopping now.” And while Shaffer is too young to remember gas station attendants, Deloris Flowers, 77, said she remembers all too well. “I didn’t like it then and I certainly wouldn’t like it now. Back then, those attendants pretended like they are mechanics and tried to fix any small thing wrong on your vehicle for a few bucks on the side,” recalled Flowers. “But all they did was make a bad situation worse and I fear that is what would happen if this so-called proposal becomes law.” One concern industry experts have about the proposed legislation is gasoline prices surging. “The price for full service was always more, that’s just the cost of doing business.

You have to add labor costs into the price, so the prices are going to go up when you mandate everyone offer or require full service gas,” said Josh Sharp, a spokesman with the Illinois Petroleum Marketers Association. “I’m happy to work with Representative Lilly toward some kind of solution if this is what she wants to do, but the way that the bill is drafted now we have to oppose.” But not everyone is against paying more at the pump for full-service. Arthur Norris, 83, said he would love to see the ‘glory days’ return when pumping gas was someone else’s job. “Man, I would give anything to have someone else pump my gas and wash my windows like it used to be back in the day,” said Norris. “Back then, an attendant would pump your gas, check your engine oil and wash your windows. Of course this was back when all gas gauges were behind the rear license plate.” Pumping gas was a part-time job for Bruce Boyd, 86, in 1971 when he worked at the now defunct Patterson Brothers Gas Station at 103rd and Prairie Avenue in Roseland. “Yeah, that was my side hustle back then and I made good money,” recalled Boyd. “I say bring back the attendants and let’s create some jobs for the community.” Job creation is another reason for sponsoring the bill, Lilly said. “House Bill 4571 could potentially create jobs that impact the local economy,” she added. “The input we receive is very valuable to help shape House Bill 4571 into legislation the people of Illinois desire.”

LAW & POLITICS

ILLINOIS MEETS WITH ILLINOIS STATE BOARD OF ELECTIONS DIRECTOR TO DISCUSS ELECTION SECURITY FUNDING U.S. Senator Dick Durbin (D-IL), a member of the Senate Appropriations Committee and Senate Rules Committee, recently met once again with Steve Sandvoss, the Executive Director of the Illinois State Board of Elections, to discuss continued federal funding for election security. Durbin, along with Senators Amy Klobuchar (D-MN) and Gary Peters (D-MI), pressed the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) on recent reports that DHS cut staff at the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency, despite warnings that foreign adversaries continue to target U.S. election infrastructure. According to a press release, beginning in June 2016, the Illinois State Board of Elections was the target of a malicious, month-long cyberattack that enabled the intruder to access confidential voter information and view the registration data of approximately 76,000 voters in Illinois. Last year, Special Counsel Robert Mueller indicted 12 Russians for their activities to interfere in the 2016 election by engaging in a sustained operation to hack into the computer networks of Democratic campaign organizations, Hillary Clinton’s presidential campaign, and state and local election administrators and vendors. The indictment specifically included charges related to the Russians’ attack on a state board of elections, which was presumed to be the Illinois State Board of Elections.

City Of Chicago Grants $700K To Local Organizations To Boost Participation In The 2020 U.S. Census Mayor Lori E. Lightfoot recently announced $700,000 in grant funding for 32 community-based organizations to support the City’s efforts in educating and engaging residents about the upcoming 2020 U.S. Census. The City partnered with Forefront’s IL Count Me In 2020 initiative to disperse a portion of its $2.7 million Census investment – the largest amount of funding Chicago has ever committed to the Census – to grant funding for community organizations. These grant funds will be used to support targeted community outreach and other initiatives to help increase Census participation

for hard-to-count communities. The City of Chicago contributed $500,000 toward this community outreach effort, Uber provided an additional $100,000, the Illinois Department of Aging contributed $75,000 and the McCormick Foundation contributed $25,000. Grant funds will be used by organizations for outreach within the City’s hardestto-count community areas. Awardees will leverage grant dollars for community events, social media campaigns, accessible materials, and other on-the-ground outreach designed to build awareness and activate Chicago residents to complete

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the 2020 Census. Nearly half of Chicago’s 2.7 million residents are considered “hard-to-count” by the U.S. Census Bureau. This includes families of color, children under five, the elderly, veterans, returning residents, individuals with high rates of mobility and housing instability, residents with disabilities, those with limited access to the Internet, and those who may be afraid to participate. An accurate count is vital for Chicago as it determines whether the City receives an appropriate level of representation in Congress, as well as the funding that is instrumental to maintaining infrastructure,

public safety, public health, and other City services. Funding for many programs benefitting Chicagoans is allocated based on the Census, including Medicaid, Head Start, SNAP, Section 8, Title I and Special Education Grants. The City of Chicago stands to lose $1,400 each year for every resident missed in 2020, with other adverse implications in redistricting. To learn more about the City’s 2020 Census efforts, please visit census2020. chicago.gov to find up-todate information on how to participate in the census, city resources aiding to ensure a full count, and what’s at stake for next year’s count.

CITIZEN | Chicago Weekend | Week of March 11, 2020

NEWS

Clerk of Circuit Court Candidate wants to expand access to justice BY TIA CAROL JONES

Richard Boykin is probably best known for his opposition of the sweetened tax during his tenure as a Cook County Commissioner. Boykin is one of five candidates running for Clerk of the Circuit Court of Cook County, to fill the position which was recently held by Dorothy Brown. Boykin is running on a platform that includes expanding access, technology, forgiving fees and fines, and automatic expungement. Other candidates running are Democrats Iris Y. Martinez, Michael Carbonargi and Jacob Meister, as well as Republican Barbara Ruth Bellar. Boykin was raised in Englewood and attended Chicago Vocational Career Academy. He graduated from Central State University, in Ohio, and received his law degree from the University of Dayton Law School. Boykin worked for U.S. Senator Carol Moseley Braun, Congressman Danny Davis and Congressman Bobby Rush throughout a 13-year period. “I was fortunate to get elected as Cook County Commissioner in 2014, served there for one term,” he said. “I’m the guy who got rid of the sweetened beverage tax, or they call it the sugar tax. Also got rid of the tax on feminine hygiene products. And, I stood up as a voice against the unfair property tax system that so disproportionately burdens people who live in the South Suburbs, West sides and South sides of Chicago.” Boykin said he is running for the office because it is the front door to the justice system. “I want to make sure that front door is wide open, welcoming and free of political influence. I want to make sure we expand access to justice. But I also want to make sure the clerk’s office is answerable only to the people and not a political party,” he said. “I have a real track record of always putting people over politics every chance I get.” Part of Boykin’s push to expand access to the justice system includes utilizing technology. “We’re going to make sure that technology makes the court system easier to navigate for everyone. We’re also going to make sure the e-record is the official record of the court,” he said. “And, that’s going to put us on a path to a paperless court system within four years. We think it’s important, one, we save the environment, two, that we make things easily available for people to access.”

Boykin said he would also like to digitize documents and enable people to access public documents remotely. He said it would allow people to print documents at home or at their offices. He said he believes it would help save taxpayers money. Boykin, also thinking of the taxpayers, wants to eliminate fees and fines associated with the court. ”I said in the beginning of my campaign, I will forgive the fees and get judges to waive fines. I think these fees and fines to basically fund the court system are onerous and not right. I think it takes advantage of too many people who are African American and Latino, I think it takes advantage of the working poor,” he said. “I want to make sure we do something about reforming fees and fines, forgiving the debt is what I call it.” Another initiative Boykin wants to introduce is automatic expungement. He said, in cases where an individual has been arrested and the State’s Attorney decides not to pursue charges or the judge dismisses the case, the clerk would move to automatically expunge the person’s record after 120 days. Boykin said it is important because having an arrest on your record, even though the case has been dismissed and the charges dropped, can negatively impact a person’s ability to get a job, receive financial aid or apply for public or private housing. “So we said, ‘look, we don’t need Springfield legislation to do this. The Chief Judge can do this. The Chief Judge Tim Evans, by what we call an administrative general order, saying to judges in cases where people have been arrested and charges have been dropped, or the case has been dismissed, the clerk shall affirmatively move on the behalf of that individual after 120 days, giving the State’s Attorney an opportunity to object to automatic expungement,’” he said. Boykin said it is his mission to restore people and enable them to have more opportunities. “These two initiatives set me apart from my opponents in that nobody is thinking outside of the box as to how we can utilize the clerk’s office to actually help restore people’s lives, to help expand restorative justice or to help give people hope again and dream again,” he said. “I think we got to restore people’s lives, we’ve got to give them hope again. I think it will also help to reduce the crime that we see in our communities. We would give people an opportunity at jobs.

Robin Kelly (pictured) is the incumbent for U.S. Congress 2nd District.

Bobby Rush (pictured) is the incumbent for U.S. Congress 1st District.

Danny K. Davis (pictured) is the incumbent for U.S. Congress 7th District.

Photo courtesy of Robin Kelly’s campaign

Photo courtesy of Bobby Rush’s campaign

Photo courtesy of Danny Davis’ campaign

Illinois gears up for voting Election season is upon us. And, while early voting began on Monday, March 2, the big day for Illinois voters is set for Tuesday, March 17. The Presidential race on the Democratic side started with 20 candidates. After Super Tuesday, March 3, there were four candidates left, Joe Biden, Elizabeth Warren, Tulsi Gabbard and Bernie Sanders. Some speculated that it would be a two-person race, with Biden and Sanders emerging as favorites and that Warren would end her run. By Thursday, March 5, Warren did just that, ending her campaign, leaving Biden and Sanders as front-runners . Former candidates, Beto O’Rourke, Amy Klobuchar, Michael Bloomberg and Pete Buttigieg threw their support behind Biden. New York City Mayor Bill de Blasio and Marianne Williamson decided to endorse Bernie Sanders. According to Pew Research, based on a survey conducted January 2020, Biden topped the list for the Democratic nominee. “In addition to support among older Democrats, Biden continues to receive strong support from black Democrats. Overall, 36 percent of black Democrats name Biden as their first choice,” the survey found. State’s Attorney Kim Foxx is being challenged by Democrats Bob Fioretti, Bill Conway, Donna More and Republicans Patrick W. O’Brien and Christopher Pfannkuche. Candidates for Clerk of Circuit Court of Cook County include Richard Boykin, Michael Carbonargi, Iris Martinez and Barbara Ruth Bellar. Candidates for Supreme Court of Illinois include Nathaniel Howse, P. Scott Neville, Cynthia Cobbs, Sheldon Harris, Daniel Epstein, Jesse Reyes and Margaret Stanton McBride. Congressional incumbents Bobby Rush and Danny Davis saw newcomers with community activists and organizing backgrounds as challengers. Kina Collins and Anthony Clark are challenging longtime Congressman Davis for the District 7 seat. Ameena Matthews and Robert Emmons, Jr., are challenging Rush for the District 1 seat. Robin Kelly is being challenged by Marcus Lewis for the District 2 seat. Endorsements The Citizen is endorsing Joe Biden for President. As Vice President during the Obama Administration, Biden helped formulate policy that assisted in removing the troops from Iraq and worked with Republicans to help the administration pass laws for tax relief and job creation, in response to the Great Recession. Biden has run on a platform of building a middle class, something www.citizennewspapergroup.com

which has dwindled under the current administration. He has also said he will bring back dignity to America, something needed with the current divisiveness and vitriol that is present. The Citizen is endorsing incumbents Robin Kelly for the District 2 seat; Bobby Rush for the District Joe Biden, U.S. 46th 1 seat; and Danny Davis for the Presidential CandiDistrict 7 seat. date. Photo courtesy of Robin Kelly has been in ConJoe Biden’s campaign gress since 2013. Prior to that, she was in the Illinois House of Representatives from 2002 to 2007. During her time in Congress, Kelly has advocated for Illinois families. She introduced the Mothers and Offspring Mortality and Morbidity Awareness Act (MOMMAS), which establishes programs to address maternal mortality in the United States, including expanded coverage under Medicaid for pregnant and postpartum women. And, she continues to encourage people to be counted in the Census 2020. Bobby Rush has been in Congress since 1993. During that time, he has brought resources to the community and advocated for the rights of citizens. Recently, he introduced the Emmett Till Antilynching Act, which was passed in the House of Representatives. He has also championed science and innovation as part of the House Committee of Energy and Commerce. He was also instrumental in bringing a Congressional Field Hearing to Englewood to discuss Gun Violence as a Public Health Crisis in 2019. Rush has been instrumental in the University of Chicago receiving $5 million in National Science Foundation funds. Danny Davis has been in Congress since 1996. Davis served as Alderman of the 29th Ward and as a Cook County Commissioner. Davis is the chairman of the Worker and Family Support Subcommittee on the House Ways and Means Committee. Davis announced that the subcommittee would hold a hearing on Combatting Child Poverty in America. Davis also announced the tax credit for College Students, the American Opportunity Tax Credit provides up to $2,500 a year of the out-ofpocket cost of tuition and qualified education expenses, which includes books, supplies and equipment needed for courses of study. It would be paid during the taxable year for the first four years of college. The Citizen is endorsing Cook County State’s Attorney Kim Foxx. Foxx has been the State’s Attorney since 2016. During her first term, she has championed criminal justice reform and reduced the number of pre-trial Continued on page 5

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BUSINESS

Southern Glazer’s Wine & Spirits Commits $1 Million To Thurgood Marshall College Fund

Southern Glazer’s Wine & Spirits (“Southern Glazer’s”) recently announced that it has signed a $1 million agreement with the Thurgood Marshall College Fund (TMCF), a national organization dedicated to promoting educational excellence among students attending Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) and Predominantly Black Institutions (PBIs). The agreement establishes a partnership that gives Southern Glazer’s access to TMCF’s diverse talent pipeline, connects Southern Glazer’s employees with HBCU students for mentoring and professional development, and provides student leaders with opportunities to pursue future careers with the Company. In addition to recruiting and on-campus events, Southern Glazer’s will participate in the 20th Annual Thurgood Marshall College Fund Leadership Institute. The Leadership Institute is intended to develop students’ leadership skills and provide companies access to a talented and diverse student population for full-time jobs and internship opportunities. Nearly 400 students attended the 2019 event from 47 publicly supported HBCUs and PBIs. Student attendees were selected from thousands of candidates and received full scholarships to participate in the week of career development activities as TMCF Scholars. Southern Glazer’s Chief Human Resources Officer Terry Arnold and its Chief Executive Officer Wayne Chaplin, both serve as executive sponsors of the program. The

Company’s strategic supplier, Moet Hennessy, a long-time supporter of TMCF and the charter corporate sponsor of its Hennessy Fellows graduate program, was influential during the building of Southern Glazer’s new partnership. Commenting on the agreement, Arnold stated, “We are honored to be working with the esteemed Thurgood Marshall College Fund to help attract, recruit and hire top talent for internships and full-time positions with Southern Glazer’s. This agreement highlights our commitment to cultivate a more diverse and highly-skilled employee base to help position us for continued growth well into the future.” Chaplin added, “Enhancing diversity is critical to our long-term success and also reinforces our values and culture. There are tremendous career opportunities with Southern Glazer’s as we continue to innovate and grow, and we look forward to partnering with the Thurgood Marshall College Fund to help identify future leaders for our company and our industry.” “Thurgood Marshall College Fund President & CEO, Harry L. Williams said, “This exciting partnership with Southern Glazer’s is another example of the diverse set of amazing global corporate partners that value and want to make long-term investments in the development and success of HBCU students through TMCF. We look forward to this decade long endeavor to create more pipelines into Southern Glazer’s expanding on the success of our partnership with Moet Hennessy.”

FTC Staff Perspective Recaps Small Business Financing Forum A new paper from the Federal Trade Commission’s Bureau of Consumer Protection provides a look at the information covered in the FTC’s “Strictly Business” forum on small business financing. The staff perspective paper outlines a number of topics discussed by participants in the forum. It provides an overview of small business lending and the emergence of new online options available to businesses seeking financing. The paper covers both potential benefits and consumer protection concerns around these online lending options for businesses, and explores in detail consumer protection issues www.citizennewspapergroup.com

associated with merchant cash advances. In addition to the staff perspective, the FTC has created a direct complaint link for small businesses to submit lending- or financingrelated complaints. The agency encourages small business owners to submit complaints if they have experienced potentially unlawful conduct. The Federal Trade Commission works to promote competition, and protect and educate consumers. You can learn more about consumer topics and file a consumer complaint online or by calling 1-877-FTCHELP (382-4357).

CITIZEN | Chicago Weekend | Week of March 11, 2020

NEWS Illinois gears up for voting Continued from page 3 detainees. Her reforms have become a national model for other State’s Attorneys to implement. In February, pastors from the South and West sides gathered to endorse her. The Citizen is endorsing Richard Boykin for Clerk of the Circuit Court of Cook County. Boykin, known as the Cook County Commissioner who voted to repeal the sugar tax, is known for being an independent progressive in the Democratic party. Boykin is an attorney who has worked for Congressman Rush, Congressman Davis and former Senator Carol Moseley Braun. He wants to expand access to justice

by utilizing technology, which includes digitizing files and making documents accessible remotely. He also wants to forgive fees and fines and enact automatic expungement for those who have their charges dismissed. The Citizen is endorsing Justice Cynthia Y. Cobbs who is running for the 1st District seat on the Illinois Supreme Court. She was appointed as a justice on the Illinois Appellate Court by the Supreme Court of Illinois in 2015. Cobbs was the first African American to serve as a senior judicial law clerk on the state’s highest court.

In that position, Cobbs reviewed litigation for trial errors committed by attorneys. She was also the first African American and female to serve as Director of the Illinois Courts. In this position, she worked closely with the Supreme Court justices and oversaw all state court operations. She was instrumental in developing E-filing in Trial Courts, E-access to Trial Court Records and Emergency Preparedness Plans in Illinois Courts. Among other candidates endorsed are: Monica M. Gordon for State Senator

Richard Boykin (pictured) is a candidate for Clerk of the Circuit Court of Cook County. Photo courtesy of Richard Boykin’s campaign

Cynthia Y. Cobbs (pictured) is running for the 1st District seat on the Illinois Supreme Court. Photo courtesy of Cynthia Y. Cobbs’ campaign

Monica M. Gordon (pictured) is a candidate for the Illinois State Senate 40th District. Photo courtesy of Monica M. Gordon’s campaign

Kimberly Neely Dubuclet (pictured) is an incumbent for the Metropolitan Water Reclamation District. Photo courtesy of Kimberly Neely Dubuclet’s campaign

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of the 40th District; Kimberly Neely Dubuclet, Frank Avila and Deyon Dean for Metropolitan Water Reclamation District Commissioners; Sharon O. Johnson for Judge of the Appellate Court; James T. Derico, Jr. for Judge of the Circuit Court; Tyria B. Walton for Judge of the First Subcircuit; Nichole C. Patton for Judge of the 15th Subcircuit; Sondra Nicole Denmark for Judge of the Second Subcircuit; and Celestia Mays, Jennifer Patricia Callahan, Teresa Molina, Sheree Disiree Henry and Lloyd James Brooks as Judge of Circuit Court.

Kim Foxx (pictured) is the incumbent for Cook County State’s Attorney. Photo courtesy of Kim Foxx’s campaign

6 | CITIZEN | Chicago Weekend | Week of March 11, 2020

NEWS

Chicago Area Project Celebrates 86 Years of Building Safe and Sustainable Communities 86 Years of Building Safe and Sustainable Communities was the theme of the Chicago Area Project (CAP) 86th Anniversary Celebration and Awards Reception held on February 20, 2020 at Malcolm X College in Chicago. The event was MCed by Radio Legend and CAP Board Member Richard Steele and co-hosted by TV Personality Merri Dee and Youth Representative Karlyn Boens. Attendees were welcomed by young CAP Youth Ambassadors and by Malcolm X President David Sanders. Highlights of the gala event included flag, praise dance, drum, and bugle performances by CAP affiliate Major Adams Community Committee. This year’s CAP awards included the Clifford R. Shaw Award given to retiring long time board member John A. Bross; the Founders Award given to retiring long time board member C. Steven Tomashefsky; and the Distinguished Service Award given to TV Personality Merri Dee. Merri Dee, co-host of the evening, had high praise for the young people who served as CAP Youth Ambassadors. “They are Youth Ambassadors who come from one of the CAP affiliates and they volunteer their time,” said Dee. “They know that when you volunteer your time, it is not just giving it away to somebody. You are strengthening your lives. You are picking yourself from the background and putting yourself in the foreground. You are working your way to the top by learning from those who have worked in the vineyards... It is an honor.” Seven African American young people were among 14 CAP Youth Ambassadors. They included Daquan David and Kiara Johnson from Major Adams Community Committee, Etienne Brown from Bishop Shepard Little Memorial Center, Maxine Gibson and Aris Brown from Roseland Community Committee, and Corey Moses, a graduate of Junior Law Camp. Their duties included welcoming and directing attendees and helping out at registration and at the coat check. Danielle Jones from Bishop Shepard Little Memorial Center is a student at Malcolm X College who plans to major in Criminal Justice. “I like being a CAP Ambassador,” she said, “because it allows me to be a voice for the youth and it allows me to give my opinions in a respectful environment.” Jones grew up in the Bishop Little CAP affiliate. “It played a big role in my life,” she said. “I met a lot of my close friends there. I’ve had a lot of great life experiences there. It definitely has been a joy

being a part of it.” Daquan David and Kiara Johnson love both their roles as CAP Youth Ambassadors and their membership in the Major Adams Community Committee. “Being a youth ambassador means being recognized for the work you’ve been doing,” said David. “At Major Adams, they teach you leadership skills, how to be better people and how to be productive in the community.” Johnson said that as a youth ambassador, “I get to represent various programs that are educational, but still fun. I also get to be at events and learn how to talk to and greet people.” She loves Major Adams because, “it gives youth the opportunity to get better experiences outside of school.” Etienne Brown from the Grand Boulevard Coalition believes that by being a CAP Youth Ambassador, he can set an example for other youth. “I can show them that they can do whatever they want,” said Brown. “If they want to do something, all they have to do is push towards that goal.” A budding graphic designer and photographer who goes to Fox Point College in Chicago, Brown helps the Grand Boulevard Coalition with their graphic arts needs. This is Corey Moses second year as a CAP Youth Ambassador. Moses, 14, is a student at Legacy Charter School on Chicago’s west side and a graduate of CAP’s Junior Law Camp. “It is an honor to be here for the second year in a row,” said Moses. “Getting a chance to meet wonderful people means a lot to me.” Youth Co-Host Karlyn Boens summed up the importance of Chicago Area Project and its affiliates through her own experience. Boens joined CAP Affiliate Mid-Austin Community Committee where she learned to sew, praise dance, and play the drums. Soon she was traveling downtown to meetings at Chicago Area Project. “Just as I learned how to sew the fabric of clothes, I began to know how the fabric of community was being sewn together,” she said. “I began to witness how drums were not just simple instruments for sound, but they were tools for radically transforming and for claiming the goodness of community.” Boens who graduated with high honors from Trinity Christian College and who is now attending Chicago State University’s Advanced Master of Social Work program asks herself: “What would I be if not for Chicago Area Project? What would communities around me look like if there was no Chicago Area Project.”

Co-Host and TV Personality Merri Dee is surrounded by young CAP Youth Ambassadors after receiving the Distinguished Service Award during Chicago Area Project’s 86th Anniversary Celebration and Awards Reception at Malcolm X College on February 20, 2020. Merri Dee praised the Youth Ambassador’s telling them, “It is an honor to volunteer—in your church, in your school, in your community—wherever you are!” African American CAP Youth Ambassadors included Daquan David and Kiara Johnson from Major Adams Community Committee, Etienne Brown from Bishop Shepard Little Memorial Center, Maxine Gibson and Aris Brown from Roseland Community Committee, and Corey Moses, a graduate of Junior Law Camp. Also pictured are CAP Executive Director David Whittaker (left) and CAP Board President Donald Cox (right).

Sponsors who helped make the Chicago Area Project 86th Anniversary Celebration and Awards Reception a success include David and Celeste Watts Whittaker, Morton College, Mary Montgomery, Kenneth Abell, Howard Lathan, Midwest Legacy Group, LLC, Tom (Caesar) and Lina Brindisi, Risk Management and Information System, Inc., Jeffrey M. Leving Law Offices, Ltd., Benny Jones, Risk Management Solutions of America, North Lawndale Community Committee/Project Roll Call, and the James Barber, Kristina Brindisi Spear, Gigi Brindisi, John and Kevin Barber Families. Since 1934 Chicago Area Project has continued to address the ever-increasing challenges youth in impoverished communities face, including escalating violence, limited job opportunities, poorly performing schools, and limited resources. Through CAP’s programs and their 32 affiliate grass-roots organizations, hundreds of youth and their families find employment and begin careers every year. CAP’s after-school enrichment programs, computer literacy, diversion, media projects, community leadership, mentoring and tutoring have helped thousands of youth lay the building blocks for averting violence and delinquency. www.citizennewspapergroup.com

TV Personality Merri Dee accepts the Distinguished Service Award during the Chicago Area Project (CAP) 86th Anniversary Celebration and Awards Reception held on February 20, 2020 at Malcolm X College in Chicago. Merri Dee who co-hosted the evening is a long-time supporter of the work of Chicago Area Project.

CITIZEN | Chicago Weekend | Week of March 11, 2020

NEWS

5 Tips to Fight Sleep Deprivation Family Features - Despite a desire for perfect sleep, Americans are not even close to getting the recommended eight hours a night, and 1 in 4 Americans believes the sleep they are getting isn’t the quality rest they want and need. “To put sleep deprivation into perspective, 37% of Americans report they have fallen asleep behind the wheel,” said Dr. Sujay Kansagra, a sleep health expert for Mattress Firm. “About 5% report falling asleep while driving on a monthly basis. Clearly, sleep deprivation is wide-spread and a risk factor for overall well-being.” With chronic sleep deprivation, the brain’s ability to maintain attention and focus continues to decline over time. In addition to impairing mental function, lack of sleep has been associated with a host of risks to overall health. Prevent sleep deprivation and take charge of your mental and physical health with these tips from Kansagra: Nap responsibly. When you’re feeling tired, it’s no surprise the best solution may be sleep. Some research suggests a quick power nap can actually give you a stronger boost than caffeine. However, too much rest during the day can throw off your nighttime sleep pattern. Aim for no more than 20 minutes so you don’t wake up groggy, and time your nap for the mid-point of your wake cycle (halfway between when you

wake up and go to sleep). Limit screen time. If you turn to your phone to help wind down while you’re in bed, you’re not alone, but you may be doing more harm than good. According to a survey conducted by Mattress Firm on sleep habits, the average person scrolls on his or her phone while lying in bed for more than 12 minutes before shutting down for the night. What’s more, the light from the screen serves as a stimulant, as does the digital content you’re viewing. That means you’re making it physically harder to fall asleep than if you put down your devices at least 30 minutes before bed. Stick to a sleep schedule. The average person gets less than six hours of sleep per night, according to the survey – a far cry from the eight hours most experts recommend. One way to buck this trend is to make it a point to turn in and wake up at the same time every day so you synchronize your sleep time with your internal clock. While eight hours is the standard, you may need to adjust up or down to find the amount sleep that lets you wake feeling rested. Develop a pre-bedtime routine. You can train your body to prepare for sleep by creating a pattern or a routine that eases you toward sleep. “Even something as simple as putting on a sleep mask each night, reading in bed for 20

When you’re feeling tired, it’s no surprise the best solution may be sleep. Some research suggests a quick power nap can actually give you a stronger boost than caffeine. Photo courtesy of Getty Images

minutes or practicing the same shower routine at the same time every night signals to your brain it’s time to hit the hay,” Kansagra said. “Creating a bedtime routine that lasts 20-30 minutes and sticking to that routine can make all the difference in your energy, productivity and mood.” Find the right sleep position. If you’re looking for the secret to a good night’s sleep, comfort may be the key. According to the survey, those who sleep on their backs at night are most likely to report they slept “perfectly well.” The most common sleeping position, on your side, correlates with the worst sleep reports. It may take some trial and error to find the right position that keeps your spine aligned, allows you to

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breathe freely and evenly distributes your weight. Top 5 Bedtime Rituals A consistent bedtime routine, including these common rituals disclosed by respondents in a Mattress Firm survey, can help ease your way toward better rest. 1. Reading (42%) 2. Watching TV (42%) 3. Taking vitamins (36%) 4. Taking a shower or bath (36%) 5. Drinking warm milk (36%) Find more tips for getting better sleep at dailydoze.com. Source: Mattress Firm

8 | CITIZEN | Chicago Weekend | Week of March 11, 2020

CITIZEN Democratic Endorsement PRESIDENT OF UNITED STATES JOE R. BIDEN

ILLINOIS STATE SENATE

PUNCH # 4

MONICA GORDON PUNCH #104

U.S. REPRESENTATIVE

JUDGE OF CIRCUIT COURT

40TH DISTRICT

BOBBY L. RUSH, 1ST DISTRICT, PUNCH #31

JAMES T. DERICO, JR., PUNCH #187

ROBIN KELLY, 2ND DISTRICT, PUNCH #31 DANNY K. DAVIS, 7TH DISTRICT, PUNCH, #31

CELESTIA L. MAYS, PUNCH 194 JENNIFER PATRICIA CALLAHAN, PUNCH 200 TERESA MOLINA, PUNCH 205

STATE REPRESENTATIVE

SHEREE DISIREE HENRY, PUNCH 207

ROBERT “BOB RITA, 28TH DISTRICT

LLOYD JAMES BROOKS, PUNCH 212

THADDEUS JONES, 29TH DISTRICT WILLIAM “WILL” DAVIS, 30TH DISTRICT

JUDGE 1ST SUBCIRCUIT TYRIA B. WALTON

NICHOLAS “NICK” SMITH, 34TH DISTRICT DEBBIE MEYERS-MARTIN, 38TH DISTRICT ANTHONY DELUCA, 80TH DISTRICT

JUDGE , 2ND BSUBCIRCUIT SONDRA NICOLE DENMARK

METROPOLITAN WATER RECLAMATION JUDGE, 15TH SUBUCIRCUIT NICHOLE C. PATTON

KIMBERLY NEELY DUBUCLET, PUNCH 126 FRANK AVILA, PUNCH 123 DEYON DEAN, PUNCH 132

STATE’S ATTORNEY KIM FOXX, PUNCH #141

CLERK OF THE CIRCUIT COURTS OF COOK COUNTY RICHARD BOYKIN, PUNCH #147 JUDGE FOR SUPREME COURT CYNTHIA Y. COBB, PUNCH# 164 JUDGE OF APPELLATE COURT

VOTE ILLINOIS PRIMARY TUESDAY, MARCH 17, 2020

SHARON O. JOHNSON, PUNCH #176

OUR

ENDORSEMENTS INCLUDES

REPRESENTATIVES

THEREFORE ALL LISTED

THORNTON TOWNSHIP AND BLOOM TOWNSHIP AREAS.

CANDIDATES MIGHT NOT APPEAR ON YOUR BALLOT

REMEMBER TO TAKE THIS PAGE WITH YOU INTO THE POLLING PLACE.

CITIZEN | Chicago Weekend | Week of March 11, 2020

ENTERTAINMENT

Woman Claims Rick James Raped her 41 Years Ago, Sues His Estate BY STACY M. BROWN NNPA Newswire Senior Correspondent @StacyBrownMedia

As a cultural icon, Rick James knew few boundaries. Through song, video and concerts, Rick James left nothing to the imagination. He romanticized – and by all accounts experienced – sex, drugs, and rock and roll like no other. His virtues, habits and desires routinely were in your face — out in the open. James peppered his songs with sexually suggestive lyrics like, “She’s a very kinky girl. The kind you don’t take home to mother,” and “she said she’d read a magazine that said I was a freak; you’ll never know now, little girl, unless you take a peek” When he died more than 15 years ago, James could have no idea that years later, the #MeToo movement would shine a spotlight on celebrities and executives who have allegedly misused their fame, positions, and power to force women into unwanted sex. In a new lawsuit filed against James’ estate in the Supreme Court of Erie County, New York, a woman alleges that the “Super Freak” singer raped her 41 years ago. The unidentified woman, who said she was 15 at the time of the incident,

Singer Rick James on Lifestyles of the Rich and Famous in 1984.

is reportedly seeking $50 million in damages from James’ estate. She claims that in 1979 James visited the group home where she resided in Buffalo, New York, and raped her. “He grabbed my hair and pushed my head into the pillow,” the woman stated in court papers. “He told me to ‘shut up and quit moving or I’ll cut you.’” The woman filed the suit under the Child Victims Act, a measure that supersedes any previous statute of limitations on sexual assault against minors. James, who died in 2004, once

served two years in prison for assaulting two women while binging on cocaine in the early 1990s. The timing of the lawsuit has raised eyebrows because James has been dead for so long, and the alleged incident happened many decades earlier. It also has some questioning whether the #MeToo movement has gone too far. “As a woman who is unfortunately also a member of the #MeToo movement, I do believe some people’s coping mechanisms are going too far,” stated Alexia Danielle Anast, a Las Vegas-based actress. “I understand the hurt, shame, and mental discomfort that comes with being a victim of a situation like this, and if you’re able to get justice, that’s awesome,” Anast said. “However, if the alleged predator has passed, I don’t believe it’s fair to blame and, or, request monetary compensation from the family of the deceased,” she added. Dean Tong, a trial expert in the field of child abuse allegations who appeared as a commentator on Court TV during the late Michael Jackson’s child molestation case in 2005, believes the court should toss out the lawsuit against James. “One must objectively look at the length of time relative to post-event recollection, and what’s happened

to the accuser during the interim timeframe,” Tong stated. “Memory is not a perfect videotape and deteriorates over time. Memory is encoded, stored, retrieved, and reported, and when it’s working properly, it does so reconstructively,” he said. Others argue that it’s not just the famous who’ve fallen victim to the #MeToo movement. “I teach leadership development programs at Fortune 500 companies, and I’m regularly approached by young males who now have women team members reporting to them,” stated author and trainer Steven Howard of the Caliente Leadership Company. “These young men tell me that a lot of their own professional development mentoring they received from their previous bosses came on road trips, often in evening discussions in sports bars or hotel bars. However, when these young men travel today with their female colleagues or direct reports, they’re afraid to do the same kind of coaching and mentoring for fear of being falsely accused of a #MeToo situation,” Howard stated. He continued: “These men admit that they are cheating their female subordinates out of valuable professional development

and mentoring time. Some even go as far as to refuse to stay in the same hotel as their female co-workers, even when traveling together on business. Others say they always take a separate elevator to their rooms when staying in the same hotel as female colleagues. As a result, some women professionals are not receiving the level of professional development they deserve because their male colleagues are afraid to have one-onone conversations with them outside of the confines of the office.” Psychologist Kahlil King, PhD(c) said in cases like James, the best she can explain it is that the alleged victim “didn’t step forward because she wasn’t ready yet, and that’s ok.” “As long as women continue to have these horrific experiences, #MeToo should continue,” King stated. “Many take issue with the timing that the accusers decide to tell their stories suggesting if it really happened, they would have said something immediately,” King noted, but added this could not be further from the truth. You can view the lawsuit against James’ estate by going here https:// www.wivb.com/wp-content/uploads/ sites/97/2020/02/NOT_ASSIGNED_ ANONYMOUS_v_ANONYMOUS_ AFFIRMATION_3.pdf

Commentary: Motown’s Celebrated Icons Started Churning Out Hits in 1965 BY STACY M. BROWN NNPA Newswire Senior Correspondent @StacyBrownMedia

Fifty-five years ago, music changed forever. In 1965, pop music’s most celebrated and dynamic dynasty was born when five brothers from Gary, Indiana formed The Jackson 5. With hits like “I’ll Be There,” “The Love You Save” and “I Want You Back,” the brothers Jackson took the world by storm. Their trailblazing act set the stage for music’s single most influential artist — the King of Pop: Michael Jackson. While the Jackson 5 never won a Grammy, Michael would eventually dominate all awards and shatter every record known to music. With hits too numerous to recite and including “Off the Wall,” “Thriller,” “Billie Jean,” “Bad,” and “Man in the Mirror,” Michael’s solo accomplishments remain unchallenged, for he was not only idolized by fans but considered a star among all other celebrities. To put in perspective, the praise heaped upon Michael, think Beyoncé and add 100 times or more to that. However, it should not be mistaken, whatever the Jackson 5 — who were later rebranded as The Jacksons — lacked in awards, they more than made up for it in record sales and concert receipts. As far as talent, it wasn’t all Michael.

The Jackson 5 in 1972, from left to right: Tito Jackson, Marlon Jackson, Michael Jackson, Jackie Jackson, and Jermaine Jackson

On stage, Jackie, Jermaine, Tito, Marlon, and even Randy proved as talented as any pop star. That’s far from hyperbole. Anyone who shared the stage with Michael that often —and more than held their own — had to possess

similar talent. The only thing better than a Michael Jackson concert was a show featuring Michael AND his brothers. “Nobody worked harder than Michael,”

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family patriarch, the late Joseph Jackson, once told this reporter. “But nobody except my boys could run with him,” Jackson stated. Jermaine, perhaps the best-known group member not named Michael, also was ticketed for superstardom. It was no mistake that Jermaine was seen as the glue to hold the brothers together. He also possessed a string of hits including, “Let’s Get Serious,” “Dynamite,” and “When the Rain Begins to Fall.” Tito would go on to front a Blues band, while Jackie found success producing other artists. The Jackson Five earned induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1997, while Michael was inducted as a solo artist four years later. Michael Jackson died in 2009, but his music continues to top the charts routinely. Michael’s legacy has eclipsed Elvis Presley, John Lennon, and all other superstars. His estate continues to rake in hundreds of millions of dollars each year, and fans are as loyal as ever. The Jacksons have since resumed touring, wowing a new generation of fans, and remains a top concert draw. “There was always magic in Michael and something special in all of them,” Motown Records founder Berry Gordy stated. Stated Motown Legend Stevie Wonder: “There will never be another Michael nor another Jackson Five.”

10 | CITIZEN | Chicago Weekend | Week of March 11, 2020

CALENDAR Illinois State Bar Association to Host High School Mock Trial Invitational at University of Illinois College of Law in Champaign Teams from 45 high schools throughout the state will participate in the 38th annual Illinois State Bar Association (ISBA) High School Mock Trial Invitational March 14-15 at the University of Illinois College of Law in Champaign. The top eight teams will compete in the final round on March 15 for the state championship. The winner will represent Illinois at the National High School Mock Trial Championship in Evansville, Indiana. “The mock trial competition provides a unique opportunity for students across the state to learn analytical skills and to display those skills through the presentation of persuasive questioning and compelling arguments,” said Stephen Iden, of Springfield, chair of the ISBA’s Standing Committee on Law Related Education for the Public, which administers the program. “The competition also teaches the basic principles and processes of the judicial system. Participation in the event improves selfconfidence, public speaking skills, and poise, all of which will serve the students well regardless of

their future career paths.” Each team tries both sides – plaintiff and defense – of a hypothetical case developed by the ISBA Committee. This year’s case is a civil case involving a driver who lost control of the car and drove off the side of the road, striking a tow truck that was parked on the right side of the road with its hazard lights flashing. The plaintiff, Dakota Young, was injured and has sued the defendant, Riley Miller, for several claims. Students will assume the roles of attorneys and witnesses, and a panel of Illinois lawyers and judges, along with members of the ISBA Law Related Education Committee, will evaluate and score the students’ performances. The students must also take a written test about the issues of the case and basic legal principles. The High School Mock Trial Invitational has been conducted each year since 1982 by the ISBA to provide Illinois high school students an interesting and challenging way to gain insight into the American judicial system. The 2020 event is co-sponsored by Illinois LEARN, Inc.

PARTICIPATING SCHOOLS: Adlai E. Stevenson HS, Lincolnshire l Bartlett HS, Bartlett l Buffalo Grove HS, Buffalo Grove l Carmel Catholic HS, Mundelein l Chicago Christian HS, Palos Heights l College Preparatory School of America, Lombard l De La Salle Institute, Chicago l Dunlap HS, Dunlap l Evanston Township HS, Evanston l Glenbard East HS, Lombard l Glenbard South HS, Glen Ellyn l Highland Park HS, Highland Park l Hinsdale Central HS, Hinsdale l Hinsdale South HS, Darien l Homewood-Flossmoor HS, Flossmoor l Huntley HS, Huntley l John Hersey HS, Arlington Heights l Libertyville HS, Vernon Hills l Maine South HS, Park Ridge l Maine Township HS West, Des Plaines l Mt. Carmel HS, Chicago l Mt. Vernon Township HS, Mt. Vernon l

Naperville North HS, Naperville Niles North HS, Skokie l Niles West HS, Skokie l Normal Community HS, Normal l Normal West HS, Normal l O’Fallon Township HS, O’Fallon l Oak Park River Forest HS, Oak Park l Pittsfield HS, Pittsfield l Providence Catholic HS, New Lenox l Rich South HS, Richton Park l Salem Community HS, Salem l South Elgin HS, South Elgin l Southland College Prep HS, Richton Park l St. Charles East HS, St. Charles l St. Charles North HS, St. Charles l Timothy Christian HS, Elmhurst l Unity Christian Academy, South Holland l University of Chicago Laboratory Schools, Chicago l Wheaton Academy, West Chicago l Wheeling HS, Wheeling l Whitney M. Young Magnet HS, Chicago l Willowbrook HS, Villa Park l York Community HS, Elmhurst l l

The CompTIA Communities & Council Forum is open to anyone involved in the business of technology and provides an opportunity to connect with the association’s member communities and advisory councils.

CompTIA Communities & Councils Forum 2020 Set for March 16-18 in Chicago CompTIA recently announced that registration is growing for its annual Communities & Councils Forum. The 2020 edition of this event is scheduled for March 16-18 in Chicago. “Member-led communities and advisory councils are the lifeblood of our association,” said Nancy Hammervik, executive vice president for industry relations at CompTIA. “The annual Forum provides a venue for peer-to-peer conversations, whether it’s about current and future market opportunities, or the challenges of operating a technology business,” she continued. “These discussions often lead to the creation of new initiatives and resources that CompTIA can share with the entire industry.” Opportunities for companies engaged in the business of technology are expanding. Global www.citizennewspapergroup.com

spending on hardware, software, services and telecom projected to reach nearly $5.2 trillion in 2020. The large majority of companies – 87% globally and 88% in the United States – turn to outside technology service and solution providers to assist with their tech needs. The CompTIA Communities & Council Forum is open to anyone involved in the business of technology and provides an opportunity to connect with the association’s member communities and advisory councils. Individuals interested in learning more about CompTIA are encouraged to attend to discover how engagement with the association can help their career or business. All attendees will have the opportunity to: Participate in impactful and productive peer-to-peer conversations. Collaborate on strategies to

advance and promote the business of technology. Learn about the newest disruptive technologies. Gain valuable insights to help grow a technology business. Contribute to impactful industry initiatives. Each of CompTIA’s six advisory councils – on artificial intelligence, blockchain, business applications, drones, the internet of things and the Channel Advisory Board – will meet separately to work on new initiatives and resources for the broader tech industry. Similarly, CompTIA communities on emerging technologies, managed services, security and advancing tech talent and diversity have dedicated programs planned for the Forum. For the complete conference agenda, more information and event registration visit CompTIA Communities & Councils Forum.

CITIZEN | Chicago Weekend | Week of March 11, 2020

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FINANCE TIPS

Declutter your finances this spring (BPT) - The spring season brings warmer days and a fresh perspective, which is why it's the ideal time to declutter and get organized. This includes taking stock of what we have, clearing out the unnecessary items in our possession and cleansing our spaces. We feel refreshed and empowered after a good sweeping. In addition to the closet overhaul and pantry refresh, there's one major area of our everyday lives we tend to overlook during this time: our finances. According to Amanda Clayman, financial therapist and Prudential's financial wellness advocate, tidying up our finances is the spring cleaning task that can make us feel more empowered than anything else on our list. Digging into our money is messy and complicated but, just like cleaning our home, it creates a feeling of revitalization and can benefit our mental health in the long run. Beyond this alone, spring cleaning our finances gets our money organized, helps us make better financial choices and improves our financial wellness overall. Amanda shares the following tips on spring cleaning your finances to start anew this season.

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1. Declutter your inbox: Clutter is clutter, no matter where it lives. Take some time to go

through your inbox and unsubscribe from promotional emails that tempt you to spend on things you don't need. Not only will it help you save, but your inbox will stay satisfyingly clean moving forward! 2. Tidy up your subscriptions: Dive into your bank statements to review recurring subscription charges and reassess which ones you really need. You may be surprised to find subscriptions that you forgot about, which can waste money over time. 3. Minimize stress with automation: Alleviate some of the constant worry of paying monthly bills by automating payments for rent, credit cards, utilities, or any other recurring charge on your plate. This will also help to avoid late fee charges. While most of our homes can use a deep clean in the springtime, focusing on doing the same with our finances is vital to improve our overall well-being. Give your financial self a refresh for greater peace of mind throughout the seasons. For more information, advice and tools for investing in your financial wellness and establishing healthy financial habits, visit Prudential Financial.

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