Chicago Weekend Citizen 06-10-2020

Y O U R S O U R C E F O R C O R O N AV I R U S N E W S

Citizen The Citizen: Serving The Black Community For 55 Years Week of June 10, 2020

| Vol. 51 | No. 24 | www.citizennewspapergroup.com

CHICAGO WEEKEND

Hico Health Launches COVID-19 Response Plan For African Americans Page 2

Study: Pandemic has increased socially responsible behaviors Page 4

Austin Coming Together recently partnered with Comp-U-Dopt to provide 500 free computers to families on the West side. Photo courtesy of Austin Coming Together

United Turns Old Uniforms Into Masks for Employees Page 8

AUSTIN COMING TOGETHER DISTRIBUTES 500 FREE COMPUTERS Schools having to move to remote learning due to COVID-19 shed light on the gaps of households in relation to internet access, computers or the technology necessary for students to participate in their education. PAGE 2

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2 | CITIZEN | Chicago Weekend | Week of June 10, 2020

NEWS briefly EDUCATION NATIONAL SURVEY: SIGNIFICANT NUMBER OF PARENTS NOT PLANNING TO SEND CHILDREN TO BRICK AND MORTAR SCHOOLS DUE TO COVID-19 CONCERNS A new national survey finds up to one in five students who were attending a brick and mortar traditional school in March of this year are unlikely to return this fall. This means approximately 10 million K-12 students will be displaced from classrooms and in need of online learning options.

The poll, conducted by Public Opinion Strategies, surveyed 2,000 parents of children enrolled in brick and mortar schools in grades K-11 who are facing difficult decisions regarding the safety, continuity and effectiveness of their children’s education this fall.

The survey sampled 2,000 parents of children in brick and mortar schools grades K-11 and was conducted May 11-17, 2020 by Public Opinion Strategies on behalf of the National Coalition for Public School Options. The survey has a margin of error of ±2.50%.

HEALTH

HICO HEALTH LAUNCHES COVID-19 RESPONSE PLAN FOR AFRICAN AMERICANS Hico Health, a Black-owned, woman-owned telehealth company focusing on type 2 diabetes in African-American communities, has launched a nationwide campaign to reduce diabetes related risk factors contributing to COVID-19 deaths.

The program dubbed “Adopt-A-Church, Empower Ourselves” matches donors looking to make an impact during this pandemic and churches who want to create a health program using the healthcare technology of Hico Health. By adopting a church, donors will empower churches and their members with health literacy education, nutritional instruction and healthy-habit adoption. For further information or to Adopt A Church, visit; www.hico.healthcare/covid19

LAW & POLITICS

GOV. PRITZKER ANNOUNCES THREE APPOINTMENTS TO ILLINOIS CONCEALED CARRY LICENSING BOARD Governor JB Pritzker recently announced three appointments to the Illinois Concealed Carry Licensing Review Board including Joseph Duffy, Donald Wilkerson and Jeremy Margolis. Duffy was previously appointed to the Concealed Carry Licensing Review Board in 2015. He currently practices law at Loeb and Loeb.

Previously, he worked at Stetler, Duffy and Rotert, and Schiff, Hardin, and Waite. Among his many accomplishments, he was also named “Illinois Super Lawyer” in Criminal Defense: White Collar and Business Litigation by Thomson Reuters (2005-2020).

He earned his Bachelor of Arts from DePaul University and Juris Doctorate from The John Marshall Law School.

Wilkerson was appointed United States Magistrate Judge in the Southern District of Illinois in January of 2005 and retired in 2019. The East St. Louis native was the first African American judge appointed to that bench. Wilkerson began his legal career with Thompson-Mitchell, later working at Stolar Partnership law firm. Among other notable accomplishments, Wilkerson joined the U.S. Attorney’s Office in St. Louis as Assistant United States Attorney until his appointment to the bench. He received his Bachelor of Science from Illinois State University, Master of Education from Southern Illinois University and Juris Doctorate from St. Louis University School of Law. Margolis was previously appointed to the Concealed Carry Licensing Review Board in 2015. He practices law at Loeb and Loeb. Prior to entering private practice, he served as an Assistant United States Attorney in Chicago for 11 years and co-founded Chicago’s multiagency Joint Terrorist Task Force and served as Director of the Illinois State Police for 4 years. Among his other accomplishments, he is a member of the Society of Former Special Agents in Chicago and holds a membership in other distinguished organizations. Margolis earned his Bachelor of Arts in History from the University of Illinois and Juris Doctorate from Northwestern University. The appointments are pending confirmation by the Illinois Senate.

Darnell Shields, executive director of Austin Coming Together, said he hopes the organization can become a model for providing equipment to families who do not have the technology. Photo courtesy of Austin Coming Together

Austin Coming Together distributes 500 free computers Continued from page 1

BY TIA CAROL JONES

Schools having to move to remote learning due to COVID-19 shed light on the gaps of households in relation to internet access, computers or the technology necessary for students to participate in their education.

As a way to decrease the number of families in the Austin community without computers in the home, Austin Coming Together recently partnered with Comp-U-Dopt to provide 500 free computers to families.

Darnell Shields, executive director of Austin Coming Together, said the computer distribution was part of a larger COVID-19 response strategy from the organization.

Shields said Austin Coming Together wanted to do something around the issue related to distance learning in order to support families with students who are attending school, either through CPS or through other educational institutions in the community.

He added the issue around the distance learning was that households either didn’t have a connection to the internet or to the devices and equip-

ment used to access the internet. He said that while CPS did distribute computers to households on a temporary basis, there were still some students who were left out.

“There’s still an issue in the community around households being connected or having a permanent device within the home, as well as students that may not have been captured in CPS’ effort and programming,” he said. “So, our effort was really to try to address those gaps, and while on a smaller scale, we’re looking at this as a way to potentially become a model of how we can connect families.”

Comp-U-Dopt is a non-profit, based in Houston, Texas, and was founded in 2007. Its mission is to provide technology to students who need it the most. The organization refurbishes old computers and laptops. The organization, which recently expanded to more cities, then partners with community organizations to distribute the computers and laptops.

Shields said Comp-U-Dopt chose Austin because it has the largest void of households that are connected to the web and have the necessary equipment and devices to connect to the web.

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Shields said the distribution took place during three days at the end of May. He said the outreach was done by his organization to make sure Austin residents would receive the computers through a lottery system. A “drive-up station” was set up in the parking lot at Michele Clark High School, which is also a partner.

Shields said it was exciting to be able to give back to Austin in this way. He grew up in the area and as a resident, directly experienced the challenges the community faces. “It’s been great to be in a position to help address those issues within my own community,” he said.

Shields is a father of two and one of them is in high school and had to adjust to distance learning. He said he knows the importance of students having access to equipment and to the internet. And, as a parent, making sure the student has the resources they need to participate in their education.

“We just see this as a small contribution of what we can do to try to help that effort and hoping we can do more,” he added. But more resources need to be available to residents in the community in order to address the “digital divide,” he said.

CITIZEN | Chicago Weekend | Week of June 10, 2020

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NEWS

Imposed Safety Measures

By Mayor Lightfoot Did Not Fare Well With Residents

BY WENDELL HUTSON Contributing Writer

Still reeling from the COVID-19 pandemic, many residents said they did not like the safety measures Mayor Lori Lightfoot imposed last week in the wake of violent looting and vandalism throughout Chicago.

On May 29, several retail stores located on the Gold Coast were broken into and vandalized by looters. That action was repeated for the next three days at retail stores throughout the South and West Sides as well. So, as a way to protect residents and businesses, Lightfoot said she had to take extraordinary steps by imposing a curfew, shutting down the CTA overnight and requesting help from the Illinois National Guard and state police.

And while some residents said the mayor’s action might have been well intended, they said it was a major inconvenience especially for people already struggling to make ends meet.

Kenneth Long, a 57-year-old Chatham resident, said he spent $34 each night for two days in a row, taking an Uber to work.

“I was unable to get to work as an essential worker. There was no public transportation from 9 p.m. to 6 a.m. Sunday or Monday [last week] and I work 11 p.m. to 7 a.m. at a halfway house,” said Long. “I normally take the Blue Line train to work and then one bus, but because nothing was running, I had to spend part of my rent money to get to work.”

And it didn’t help that notification about the CTA shutdown was not made to the public until an hour before it was to take effect, added Long.

Rather than spend more money to get to work, Lavender Dash, 29, said she took two unpaid days off work from her security job during the CTA

shutdown.

“I make $13.50 an hour, which isn’t much when you have three kids, and instead [of] trying to find a ride to work, I called off work until the trains and buses were back running again,” said Dash, a Park Manor resident. “I’m not about to spend more money to get to the minimum wage job. That’s just crazy!”

However, in a May 31 tweet, Lightfoot said the transportation shutdown was necessary in the wake of CTA employees being assaulted and threatened by riders.

“This measure was necessary in order to preserve the safety of residents and transit employees,” she tweeted, noting that the move also supported a citywide curfew she previously put in place from 9 p.m. to 6 a.m.

Other actions the mayor took following rampant looting was closing all downtown exits on the Dan Ryan Expressway and posting the state police and the National Guard at downtown checkpoints starting at Chinatown, a move the mayor said freed up more police officers to patrol the South and West Sides.

“Contrary to rumors, the city has spent unprecedented public safety resources on the neighborhoods—particularly on the South and West Sides — to protect residents and ensure a quick emergency response,” Lightfoot told the Citizen.

“This includes police deployments, fire and paramedic services. To achieve this, we deployed the Illinois National Guard along the Loop area perimeter to allow Chicago Police Department personnel to focus on Chicago’s communities.”

But some aldermen said the mayor should have made the same effort to protect residents and businesses on the South and West Sides as she did for downtown.

The Walgreens store at 8628 S. Cottage Grove Ave. was among the local retailers looted on May 31, 2020 and is now closed. Photo credit: Wendell Hutson

“I absolutely believe the mayor should have done the same thing for the South and West Side, and address the bigger problem, which is police officers get away with murder,” said Ald. Jeanette Taylor (20th), whose South Side ward includes Woodlawn.

During her June 3 “State of the City” speech, Lightfoot announced that the city would invest $10 million in a relief fund to help small businesses affected by last week’s looting and said the city would raise more funds through private and corporate donations.

Taylor said she supports such an effort, but cautioned the mayor to make sure monies distributed are done so as grants and not loans.

“Who got most of the federal money when COVID-19 hit? It was not small businesses and it certainly wasn’t black-owned businesses,” contends Taylor. “This is the same thing that happened during the recession when banks got bailed out and ‘we’ [blacks] got sold out!”

Ald. Anthony Beale (9th), whose South Side ward includes Roseland, also said the mayor should have put the same effort in protecting South and West Side communities as she did the

Gold Coast.

“My ward includes a Walmart and it was not looted, but that’s not because City Hall stepped up. It was because I worked with my police commander to cut off access to that store,” contends Beale, who added he requested resources from City Hall to help prevent looting, but did not receive it.

“I was not able to do the same for the businesses along Michigan Avenue because it was only so much I could do, but if I had more resources, I could have been done more to protect the businesses in my ward,” he added.

And like many black aldermen whose wards were hit hard with looting and vandalism, Taylor said she does not support that type of behavior, but “I understand why they did it.”

She added that blacks have been mistreated by society for years and Chicago is no different.

“People are angry, fed up and tired of not having their voices heard,” explained Taylor.

“For years, black folks have had a knee in their necks and now blacks are at a point where they cannot take it anymore and feel a need to express themselves.”

UIC historian elected to Society of American Historians

Barbara Ransby, UIC professor of African American studies, gender and women’s studies, and history; LAS distinguished professor; and director of the Social Justice Initiative.

University of Illinois at Chicago historian and author Barbara Ransby has added a new honor to her long list of accolades for scholarship and writing.

Ransby, UIC professor of African American studies, gender and women’s studies, and history, and distinguished professor in the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, is one of 20 scholars, independent writers, journalists, and public historians welcomed as newly elected fellows of the Society of American Historians.

She joins around 400 members in the invitation-only society, which was established in 1939 at Columbia University to promote literary excellence in the writing or presentation of history.

Ransby, who also is director of the Social Justice Initiative at UIC, is well-known for her work in 20th century African-American and women’s history and civil rights and other so-

cial change movements. She has spent much of her career creating forums for public discourse that link academics to the community at large.

Ransby is author of “Making All Black Lives Matter: Reimagining Freedom in the 21st Century,” the award-winning “Ella Baker and the Black Freedom Movement: A Radical Democratic Vision,” and “Eslanda: The Large and Unconventional Life of Mrs. Paul Robeson.” Ransby, who came to UIC in 1996, has published in numerous scholarly and popular publications, is a frequent guest lecturer, and often is sought by media outlets for her historical and contemporary perspective on issues related to activism, civil rights and race. Her op-eds recently have appeared in The New York Times.

Her current project is a biography of Elizabeth Catlett, a black American – Mexican artist whose political linocuts and sculptures

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influenced an entire generation of artists on both sides of the U.S.–Mexican border. Catlett, who died in 2012 at the age of 96, explored various themes related to race and feminism in her wide range of work and also was persecuted for her left-wing political views.

Her previous honors include the American Studies Association’s 2018 Angela Y. Davis Prize for Public Scholarship, which recognizes scholars who have applied or used their scholarship for the betterment of society. She was named among the top 25 women in higher education by Diverse: Issues in Higher Education magazine in 2017.

Ransby is a past-president of the National Women’s Studies Association, editorial board member for several academic journals, and editor-in-chief of SOULS, a critical journal of black politics, culture and society.

4 | CITIZEN | Chicago Weekend | Week of June 10, 2020

BUSINESS

T-Mobile Launches ‘ Connecting Heroes’ Free 5G for First Responder Agencies is Here

Study: The COVID-19 Pandemic Has Led to a Surge of Socially Responsible Behaviors COVID-19 has had a radically positive impact on socially responsible behaviors, according to a special release of the Conscious Consumer Spending Index (#CCSIndex).

After a three-year slide, consumers have been spurred to significant increases in a range of “do good’ behaviors such as reducing consumption, donating to charity and buying products and services from socially responsible companies.

This rebound of goodness comes at a time when approximately one quarter of Americans are reporting a decline in household income, their overall wellbeing or both. In total, 1,006 Americans were surveyed for the latest Index.

Conducted annually, each fall since 2013, the #CCSIndex is an ongoing benchmarking study. Good.Must.Grow., a socially responsible marketing consultancy, administers the Index to gauge momentum for conscious consumerism and charitable giving.

Researchers fielded this mid-year check point to gauge what impact the COVID-19 pandemic is having on social responsibility.

Overall, the impact is positive. The #CCSIndex jumped 15 percent to 46 on a 100-point scale. This was the highest score since 2017, and

a dramatic reversal from a record low performance of 39 last November. The Index score is calculated by evaluating the importance consumers place on purchasing from socially responsible companies, actions taken to support such products and services, and future intent to increase the amount they spend with responsible organizations. Based on the design of the Index’s algorithm, even a one-point change in overall score indicates meaningful movement of consumer sentiment.

“This pandemic has had an extensive and negative impact on our collective wellbeing, but it has also served as a catalyst for community and consciousness,” said Heath Shackleford, founder of Good.

Must.Grow. “We have been forced to come together in new ways. We’ve benefited from fresh perspectives and resetting of priorities. And I think we are taking seriously our individual roles as change makers to lead with purpose and reward companies and causes who do the same.”

Other key findings from the Index include: l Those who have been diagnosed with COVID-19, or have cared for an immediate family member with the virus, were far more likely to report

improved wellbeing, charitable giving, supporting socially responsible companies and backing local businesses, than those with no direct exposure. l Nearly half of Americans (47%) believe companies will be more socially responsible as a result of the pandemic. l More than three-quarters of Americans say that how a company treats employees and customers during the pandemic will be an important factor when determining whether to support them following the pandemic. Overall, matters of trust outranked a company’s purpose and social impact as priorities for consumers postpandemic. l Just under half of Americans will be working harder on their personal health (43%) and building their savings accounts (41%) as a result of the pandemic.

Interestingly, when asked which companies were NOT being socially responsible during the pandemic, the same two brands led the way. The top five were: 1. Amazon 2. Walmart 3. Tesla 4. Hobby Lobby 5. Tyson Foods

Naughty or Nice – Which Companies Are Behaving Well During the Pandemic?

When asked which companies were doing a good job of being socially responsible during the pandemic, the most likely responses (unaided) were: 1. Walmart 2. Amazon 3. Target 4. Kroger 5. Costco

About the Study This study was conducted in partnership with Supportive Research Solutions. Sampling was provided by Dynata. Data was collected May 9 -16, 2020.

In total, 1,006 Americans were surveyed (margin of error is +/- 3%). For more information on the Conscious Consumer Spending Index, please visit www.goodmustgrow.com/ ccsindex

“I believe there are many positives here,” said Shackleford. “The data we collect have been trending the wrong direction for several years, and it seems there is renewed momentum for consumers to more consistently support organizations that are mission-driven and committed to positive social impact. It will be important to sustain this energy as we continue to navigate the pandemic and prepare for a new normal.”

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In a recent video, T-Mobile CEO Mike Sievert launched Connecting Heroes, the Un-carrier’s 10-year commitment to provide free service and 5G access to first responder agencies, including all public and non-profit state and local fire, police and EMS departments, saving them up to $7 billion. Interested agencies can sign up at www.t-mobile.com/connectingheroes.

Plus, the Un-carrier continues to build out its industry-leading 5G network at a furious pace.

T-Mobile’s 5G network is now 8 times bigger than AT&T’s and 28 THOUSAND times bigger than Verizon’s, according to a press release.

As a ‘thank you’ to everyone who’s shifted the way they work and live during this pandemic, the Un-carrier is giving Sprint and T-Mobile postpaid customers a new iPhone SE or up to half off a flagship superphone from another top brand. Customers just trade in their existing eligible device, and they’ll owe nothing but the sales tax on an iPhone SE — a powerful new smartphone in a popular design — or get up to $500 off another new superphone.

“When we’re at our most vulnerable, first responders are there for us … and they are under more pressure today than ever before.

Connecting Heroes is one way we’re saying ‘thank you’ in this critical time,” said Mike Sievert, CEO of T-Mobile. “People who save lives shouldn’t have to choose between lifesaving equipment and wireless service. And with Connecting Heroes, they won’t have to. We’re not limiting this program to a few months or a year … first responders can get free service including 5G access, for a full decade. THIS is the kind of impact the new T-Mobile can have in the world.

THIS is the kind of difference we can make.”

For more information on this offer, visit t-mobile.com or sprint.com.

T-Mobile CEO Mike Sievert recently launched Connecting Heroes.

CITIZEN | Chicago Weekend | Week of June 10, 2020

Highlights From The Unrest

Organizations, Community Leaders and Residence From The South side and West side of the City Organized Events To Lend Hands With Efforts To Feed The Community, Rebuild and Restore Businesses. Photos by L.M. Warbington

Stay up to date with the latest community news visit us at: www.citizennewspapergroup.com

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6 | CITIZEN | Chicago Weekend | Week of June 10, 2020

NEWS

Go Ahead, Make His Day Dad-approved gifts for Father’s Day Family Features - An entire day dedicated to dear ol’ dad may not be enough to show the depths of your appreciation, but a hug, a heartfelt thanks and some quality time (even from afar) are great places to start.

When it comes to giving gifts for Father’s Day, practical and purposeful gifts are high on most dads’ lists. Think about his favorite things to eat and the ways he spends his coveted down time. A gift that celebrates the things that matter most to him is sure to earn dad’s gratitude.

Find more ideas to make it a Father’s Day to remember at eLivingtoday.com.

Special Steaks to Celebrate Dad Father’s Day gifting can be pretty simple: Many dads want a delicious steak. Give him a collection of tender cuts with the Filet for Father’s Day package from Omaha Steaks, which includes four 7-ounce Butcher’s Cut Filet Mignons, eight 6-ounce brisket burgers, four 3-ounce gourmet jumbo franks, four 2.88-ounce potatoes au gratin, four 4-ounce individual New York cheesecakes and a 3.1-ounce jar of signature seasoning. Find more meal ideas for dad at omahasteaks.com.

A Sharp Gift for Dad A knife is only as good as the sharpness of its blade. This Father’s Day, get dad a helpful tool to keep his knives wicked sharp. Made from high-quality materials, the Wicked Edge GO knife sharpener is easy to use for both new and veteran knife sharpeners and can accommodate a wide variety of knives. With guided angle control, dad can get professional-level results every time. Learn more at wickededgeusa.com.

Gear to Go Fishing Even the most avid fishermen can typically use more gear. Replenish the tackle box with fresh supplies like a new rod so he can use it to go fishing and reel in a real catch. If he’s an extra-avid sportsman, be sure to also check out the wide variety of tech-enabled locators that give him a little nudge to boost his chances for a successful day.

A Ladder for Dad’s Jobs As a 3-in-1 ladder that easily converts to stepladder, extension and leaning configurations, the Little Giant King Kombo gives you the perfect tool for nearly any job. A rotating wall pad lets you safely

When it comes to giving gifts for Father’s Day, practical and purposeful gifts are high on most dads’ lists.

lean your ladder on inside and outside corners, walls and 2-by-4-inch studs. Made from lightweight, non-conductive fiberglass, you can safely work around electricity, and the IAA 375-pound weight rating makes the ladder sturdy enough for the job. Find more information at amazon.com.

Supplies He’ll Automatically Enjoy If tinkering in the garage is dad’s favorite pastime, give him an excuse to spend even

more time with a project that proves he’s passing the hours productively. A collection of car detailing supplies lets him buff and shine his ride to perfection. Be sure to include products that let him spruce things up inside and out, and throw in an extra touch like a personalized travel mug that will keep on giving well after Father’s Day has passed.

SOURCE: Omaha Steaks, Wicked Edge, Little Giant Ladder

If I could do one thing, I’d have a daycare closer to work.

If you could do one thing for your community, what would it be? More daycare centers? More funding for Head Start? Completing the 2020 Census is a safe and easy way to inform how billions of dollars in funding flow into your community for hundreds of services.

Respond online, by phone, or by mail.

Complete the census at:

2020CENSUS.GOV Paid for by U.S. Census Bureau.

C24097_1a_2019_Census_Daycare_Newspaper_HalfPage_SizeA_9_75x6.indd 02.25.20 Epson HP

A24097x08B_340-00034703_CMYK_news.tif

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4C Newspaper - Size A NON-Bleed Size: 9.75” x 6”

T:10.75” S:10.25”

CITIZEN | Chicago Weekend | Week of June 10, 2020

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Let the summer play.

Visit xfinity.com/discovermore to learn more.

Restrictions apply. Not available in all areas. Xfinity TV service subscription required.

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or celebrating out, catch music-themed movies, enjoy your favorite music networks, and stream top apps like Pandora, Music Choice and more right to your TV. This is what summer sounds like. And no matter what it brings, Xfinity Black Film & TV has your soundtrack. Simple. Easy. Awesome.

S:12.5”

Celebrate all the legends and soon-to-be legendary music that heats up summer with Xfinity. This Black Music Month, whether you’re summering in

8 | CITIZEN | Chicago Weekend | Week of June 10, 2020

NEWS

United Turns Old Uniforms Into Masks for Employees United Airlines recently delivered 7,500 face coverings to front line employees at San Francisco International Airport and the airline’s San Francisco Maintenance Base that were made from 12,284 pounds of uniforms United upcycled.

United worked with upcycling partner, Looptworks, to produce masks that would supplement the supply of face coverings that the airline already provides all employees and customers.

United recently rolled out new Carhartt Company Gear for its 28,000 Technical Operations, Ramp Service and Catering Operations employees and originally planned to turn the surplus of older garments into carpet padding and insulation fiber.

The company changed course last month to align with the latest guidance from the Center for Disease Control’s (CDC) to wear face masks in public when social distancing is not possible.

“This was an opportunity to do something extra for our employees to keep them safe while also staying true to our commitment to be one of the most sustainable airlines

United Airlines delivered 7,500 face coverings to front line employees that were made from 12,284 pounds of uniforms United upcycled.

in the world,” said Janet Lamkin, United Airlines SVP and president, California. “Recycling these unused uniforms into masks is a natural extension of our broader effort

to overhaul our cleaning, social distancing and mitigation measures to ensure we’re doing everything possible to keep our employees and our customers safe.”

United recently launched United CleanPlus, which brings together one of the most trusted brands in surface disinfection - Clorox - and the country’s top medical experts

- Cleveland Clinic - to inform and guide United’s new cleaning, safety and social distancing protocols that includes touchless kiosks in select locations for baggage check-in, sneeze guards, mandatory face coverings for crew and customers, and empowering customers by contacting them 24 hours in advance and giving them the opportunity to choose a different flight – for free -when it looks like more than 70% of the seats will be filled.

Through partnering with Portland, Oregon-based Looptworks, United was able to supply employees with more sustainable, eco-friendly masks that are washable and reusable, recycled from uniforms, made in limited editions, and in the process save materials from landfills.

In April, United became the first major U.S.-based airline to require flight attendants to wear a face mask while on duty, and beginning in May, expanded that mandate to include all employees and customers on board. This includes front-line workers like pilots, customer service agents and ramp workers when on board an aircraft, along with any other United employees traveling using their flight benefits.

5 Tips to Enhance Your Wedding Decor Family Features - Wedding days are meant to be filled with love and celebration, and what better way to ring in the new stage of life as newlyweds than with a well-decorated venue to match the joyous occasion.

Whether a couple is on a tight budget or picky when it comes to theme ideas, these decorating tips can help add more flair for the big day.

Use a natural venue. Many couples choose wedding venues that require immense amounts of decorations, but a venue with organic scenery or a beautiful view can help alleviate the stress. Consider having the ceremony near a garden or beach with enough natural surroundings to keep guests in awe.

Make the cake a centerpiece. Wedding cakes are almost guaranteed to be filled with flavor, but they can also serve as a decorative centerpiece for the reception. Choosing a cake topped with flowers, highlighting bright colors and placing it in a prominent spot at the reception can grab guests’ attention while also keeping them eager for a bite.

Choose table accessories that pop. Leave guests in amazement as they make their way to their seats for the reception with beautifully decorated tables. Table accessories can be

anything ranging from patterned table runners to flowers in full-bloom placed in simple, elegant vases. If you are not having a formal sit-down reception, try using paper lanterns or hanging flowers from the ceiling to create an eye-catching atmosphere to remember.

Add classic lighting. At times, finding the right lighting to match the mood of a wedding venue can be tricky. In this case, less may actually be more. Try opting for a classic candlelit ceremony or reception to create a more romantic setting. This can save both money and countless hours spent attempting to configure elaborate light fixtures, and also provide a timeless feel.

Place engagement photos around the venue. With any wedding, you want the day to feel personal and intimate for the couple and guests alike. Consider decorating the venue with engagement photos of the soon-to-be spouses as they popped the question. This can allow the newlyweds to reminisce while guests view those cherished moments and revel in the occasion.

For more tips to prepare for life’s special moments like marital bliss, visit elivingtoday. com.

SOURCE: Family Features

Whether a couple is on a tight budget or picky when it comes to theme ideas, these decorating tips can help add more flair for the big day. Photo courtesy of Getty Images

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CITIZEN | Chicago Weekend | Week of June 10, 2020

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FOOD

Support Your Immune System with Grapes Family Features - Boosting immune function through a healthy diet has become an important new focus for many people these days. One key dietary recommendation is to eat more fruits and vegetables each day to improve immune function and prevent heart disease and diabetes. When looking to guide your family to healthier snacks and meals or simply

trying to mix up your at-home menu, success can be as simple as rethinking the ingredients you choose to use, including your favorite produce, such as grapes.

Fresh California grapes, for example, make for an ideal snack because they are tasty, healthy, hydrating and refreshing, but grapes can also be used to make good-for-you dishes

that are also satisfying and delicious. Grapes of all colors – red, green and black – are a natural source of beneficial antioxidants and other polyphenols. Plus, they are naturally fat-free, cholesterol-free and contain virtually no sodium.

Try recipes like Moroccan Grape and Grilled Chicken Bowls with Grape Vinaigrette, Spiced

Chickpeas and Grapes with Yogurt, and Cauliflower Steaks with Grapes to pair hearthealthy grapes with other nutritious ingredients and add variety and fresh appeal in the kitchen.

Visit GrapesFromCalifornia.com for more nutritious family recipes.

SOURCE: California Table Grape Commission

MOROCCAN GRAPE AND GRILLED CHICKEN BOWLS WITH GRAPE VINAIGRETTE Servings: 4 Couscous: l 1 cup Israeli couscous l 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil l 1/2 cup carrots, thinly sliced l 1/2 cup tomatoes, diced l 1/2 cup parsley, leaves only l 1 1/2 teaspoons ras el hanout (Moroccan spice blend) l 1 teaspoon salt Chicken: l 2 chicken breasts (8 ounces each) l 1 tablespoon harissa paste l 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil l 1 teaspoon salt Vinaigrette: l 1/4 cup green California grapes l 1 lemon, juice only l 1 preserved lemon, rind only l 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil l 2 tablespoons cilantro, chopped l salt, to taste l ground black pepper, to taste l 1 cup red California grapes, halved l 1/2 cup sliced almonds, toasted 1. To make couscous: Cook couscous in boiling salted water. Drain, rinse with cold water and combine with olive oil. Add carrots, tomatoes, parsley leaves, ras el hanout and salt. Mix well and set aside.

2. To make chicken: Heat grill to medium-high heat.

3. Rub chicken breasts with harissa paste, olive oil and salt. Grill on both sides until just done. Set aside to cool. Slice into 1/4-inch slices.

4. To make vinaigrette: In blender, puree green grapes, lemon juice, lemon rind, olive oil and cilantro until smooth. Add salt and pepper, to taste.

5. Toss couscous mixture with vinaigrette and portion into four bowls. Top with sliced chicken, red grapes and almonds.

Nutritional information per serving: 590 calories; 30 g protein; 44 g carbohydrates; 32 g fat (49% calories from fat); 4.5 g saturated fat (7% calories from saturated fat); 65 mg cholesterol; 720 mg sodium; 3 g fiber.

CAULIFLOWER STEAKS WITH GRAPES Prep time: 10 minutes

SPICED CHICKPEAS AND GRAPES WITH YOGURT Prep time: 15 minutes Cook time: 5 minutes Servings: 4 1 can (15 ounces) chickpeas, rinsed, drained and patted dry 1 cup California grapes 1 tablespoon peanut oil 1 1/2 teaspoons mustard seeds 1 teaspoon cumin seeds 1 teaspoon fennel seeds 1/4 teaspoon salt, divided 1 pinch red pepper flakes 1 cup low-fat Greek yogurt 1 tablespoon lemon juice 1/2 teaspoon finely grated lemon zest 1/2 garlic clove, grated 2 tablespoons chopped cilantro 2 tablespoons thinly sliced scallions 1. In large bowl, mix chickpeas and grapes.

2. In small skillet, warm oil over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add mustard seeds and cover. Cook until seeds stop popping then add cumin and fennel seeds; cook until fragrant, about 1 minute. Stir in 1/8 teaspoon salt and pepper flakes; pour over chickpeas and grapes. Mix well.

3. In separate bowl, stir yogurt, lemon juice, lemon zest, garlic and remaining salt. Spread on serving platter and top with chickpea mixture, cilantro and scallions.

Nutritional information per serving: 220 calories; 11 g protein; 31 g carbohydrates; 6 g fat (25% calories from fat); 1.5 g saturated fat (6% calories from saturated fat); 5 mg cholesterol; 280 mg sodium; 1 g fiber.

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Cook time: 30 minutes Servings: 4 1 large head cauliflower, leaves trimmed off 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil, divided 2 teaspoons finely chopped rosemary 1/2 teaspoon coarse salt 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, divided 1 cup halved California grapes 1/4 cup chopped Castelvetrano olives 2 tablespoons chopped Italian parsley 2 tablespoons chopped, toasted pistachios 1. Heat oven to 450 F. 2. Cut stem off cauliflower and cut remaining head crosswise into four 1-inch-thick slices, keeping as intact as possible. Place on sheet pan and brush sides with 1 1/2 tablespoons olive oil. Sprinkle with rosemary, salt and 1/4 teaspoon pepper. Roast until browned and tender, about 25 minutes.

3. Combine remaining olive oil, remaining pepper, grapes, olives, parsley and pistachios. When cauliflower is roasted, transfer to serving plates and top with grape mixture.

4. Nutritional information per serving: 210 calories; 5 g protein; 20 g carbohydrates; 14 g fat (60% calories from fat); 2 g saturated fat (9% calories from saturated fat); 0 mg cholesterol; 480 mg sodium; 5 g fiber.

5. Healthy Eating is Easy with Grapes 6. Grapes are prized for their taste and crisp, juicy texture, but fresh grapes are also a heart-healthy, hydrating snack choice. Grapes contain more than 1,600 natural plant compounds, including antioxidants and other polyphenols, which help protect the health and function of the body’s cells. Grapes can be paired with other healthy foods to enhance flavor and nutrition, including dark leafy greens, cauliflower, broccoli, whole grains, legumes and lean proteins.

10 | CITIZEN | Chicago Weekend | Week of June 10, 2020

ENTERTAINMENT

Ice Cube to Black Press of America: ‘You’re All We’ve Got’ Hip-Hop Legend Talks New Movie, Black Life in Exclusive Interview

BY STACY M. BROWN NNPA Newswire Senior Correspondent @StacyBrownMedia

Thirty years ago, Ice Cube debuted his seminal “AmeriKKKa’s Most Wanted” album, which many at the time said was the apex of hip hop’s existence.

Today, Cube is not only one of the world’s biggest music stars, but he’s also at the top of Hollywood’s A-list.

In an exclusive livestream interview with the Black Press of America, the legend said he takes nothing for granted.

“I’m not going to take a day off,” stated Cube, whose real name is O’Shea Jackson. “It’s good that people enjoy the work that I do, and I’m going to keep it coming,” he stated.

Following a long list of blockbusters like Boyz ‘N the Hood, Three Kings, and The Players Club, Cube’s new film, The High Note, debuted on Friday, May 29 on various streaming services.

The only actor to have at least five highly-successful movie franchises (Friday, Barbershop, Are We There Yet?, Ride Along, and 21 Jump Street), Cube said he’s merely taking advantage of the opportunities he’s been blessed with.

Born in predominantly Black South-Central, Los Angeles, Cube said the Black Press remains as vital today as when he was a baby in 1969.

“You [The Black Press] is all we’ve got, to be honest,” Cube stated.

“You’re our last line of defense when it comes to the truth, and when it comes to things that are of interest for our people and that’s something we must keep intact, nurture, fund, and do everything we can to keep the Black Press going.”

He continued: “You’ve been a lifeline to the community, letting the world know what’s going on. We’re underreported and underappreciated. [Public Enemy leader] Chuck D told us a long time ago to ‘Don’t believe the hype.’ You’ve got to listen to the people that love you.

So, thank God for the Black Press.”

Cube’s message also extended to millennials.

“Do your thing,” Cube said when asked what his message was for young people.

“Stay determined and creative.

Technology today is perfect for artists to be themselves and do what they feel and not conform to anyone,” he stated, noting that hip hop artist Soulja Boy

The only actor to have at least five highly-successful movie franchises (Friday, Barbershop, Are We There Yet?, Ride Along, and 21 Jump Street), Ice Cube said he’s merely taking advantage of the opportunities he’s been blessed with.

turned himself into a superstar by creating music from his home.

“You have to fall in love with the act of creating something new,” Cube continued.

“If you do something you really love and are satisfied with finishing a great project, you never know what you’ll get out of it.”

Cube’s new film, The High Note, stars

Tracee Ellis Ross and Dakota Johnson.

“It’s a great movie about the music industry. I play the manager of superstar Grace Davis. This story is of this assistant of this superstar and her journey,” Cube stated.

“Tracee Ellis Ross had a front-row seat to one of the biggest superstars in the world (her mother, Diana Ross), was going to work all the way around.”

Dr. Benjamin F. Chavis, Jr, NNPA President and CEO, saluted Ice Cube for his outstanding achievements and ongoing commitment to the empowerment of Black America.

Chavis stated, “Ice Cube continues to represent the best of the genius of hip hop that transforms the world into a better place for who cry out for freedom and justice.”

NFL Announces Major Steps to Incentive Teams to Hire Minorities for Top Posts IN AN EXPANSION OF ITS ROONEY RULE, WHICH HAD PREVIOUSLY CALLED ON TEAMS TO INTERVIEW MINORITY CANDIDATES, THE LEAGUE SAID TEAMS MUST ALSO INTERVIEW AT LEAST ONE MINORITY CANDIDATE FOR COORDINATOR OPENINGS AND ONE EXTERNAL CANDIDATE FOR POSITIONS IN TEAMS’ FRONT OFFICES. “WHILE WE HAVE SEEN POSITIVE STRIDES IN OUR COACHING RANKS OVER THE YEARS AIDED BY THE ROONEY RULE, WE RECOGNIZE, AFTER THE LAST TWO SEASONS, THAT WE CAN AND MUST DO MORE,” COMMISSIONER ROGER GOODELL SAID DURING A MEDIA CONFERENCE CALL.

BY STACY M. BROWN NNPA Newswire Senior Correspondent @StacyBrownMedia

National Football League teams must now interview at least two minority candidates for head coaching positions under new resolutions that the league hopes will improve diversity among its 32 teams.

In an expansion of its Rooney Rule, which had previously called on teams to interview minority candidates, the league said teams must also interview at least one minority candidate for coordinator openings and one external candidate for positions in teams’ front offices.

“While we have seen positive strides in our coaching ranks over the years aided by the Rooney Rule, we recognize, after the last two seasons, that we can and must do more,” Commissioner Roger Goodell said during a media conference call.

“The policy changes made today are bold and demonstrate the commitment of our ownership to increase diversity in leadership positions throughout the league.”

Troy Vincent, the NFL’s executive vice president of football operations and second-incommand to Goodell, said the league is now in a better position to not only hire minorities and women, but to retain their services.

“What the chairman (Art Rooney II) and the commissioner did today and what

National Football League (NFL) Commissioner Roger Goodell delivers remarks during an event at the U.S. Military Academy at West Point, N.Y., launching an initiative between the Army and the NFL to work to raise awareness about traumatic brain injury.

the ownership voted on today has been a fight for decades to get mobility that has disproportionately affected people of color,” Vincent stated.

“Just the ability to get an interview, you don’t get hired unless you have an interview. The mobility resolution today was significant and historic, because it has been a fight for decades.

That’s the foundation. Frankly, we would call

that the linchpin of these inequalities. With these initiatives, the enhancement of the Rooney Rule, which is a tool; it just allows us to have a broader scope of how we look at things.”

The new rules include a provision that begins in 2021, which states that teams will no longer restrict staff from interviewing with other clubs for “bona fide” coaching or front office positions. Goodell called the commitment to improving diversity throughout the league is “critical” for future success.

“While we have seen positive strides in our coaching ranks over the years aided by the Rooney Rule, we recognize, after the last two seasons, that we can and must do more,” Goodell said.

“The policy changes made today are bold and demonstrate the commitment of our ownership to increase diversity in leadership positions throughout the league.”

Clubs also will be required to “include minorities and, or, female applicants in the interview processes for senior-level front

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office positions such as club president and senior executives in communications, finance, human resources, legal, football operations, sales, marketing, sponsorship, information technology, and security positions,” according to the expanded rule.

Also, league officials stated that they would use an advisory panel to further strategies aimed at fostering an inclusive culture of opportunity both on and off the field.

Goodell also promised to improve the league’s pipeline for minority coaching and player personnel candidates with assistance from its Bill Walsh NFL Diversity Coaching Fellowship.

“This fight has been going on for a long time,” said Vincent, who could one day become the league’s first African American commissioner.

“The facts are we have a broken system, and we’re looking to implement things to change the direction in where we’re going, and it’s been south. Not a gradual south but a direct south.”

CITIZEN | Chicago Weekend | Week of June 10, 2020

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