Chicago Weekend Citizen 8-14-2019 by CITIZEN NEWSPAPERS

Citizen Bulletproof school backpacks developed with harsh ‘realities in mind’ — Page 3 Week of Aug. 14, 2019

| Vol. 50 | No. 33 | www.thechicagocitizen.com

CHICAGO WEEKEND

John Johnson kept a private residence inside the building at 820 S. Michigan Ave. when Johnson Publishing Company was headquartered there. During the renovation, the layout of his apartment was preserved and has one of the best views in the entire building. Photo Credit: Katherine Newman

FORMER JOHNSON PUBLISHING HEADQUARTERS TRANSFORMED INTO RESIDENTIAL BUILDING

FASHION

NEWS

BUSINESS

Science Proves A Bath 1-2 Hours Before Bed Improves Sleep

6 Things You Need to Know About Vaccinations

Savoy Honors Katten’s Chief Diversity Partner on List of “Most Influential Women in Corporate America”

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2 | CITIZEN | Chicago Weekend | Week of Aug. 14, 2019

NEWS briefly EDUCATION

SUPER-MAJORITY OF PARENTS SUPPORT MORE FUNDING IN PUBLIC SCHOOLS, HIGHER PAY FOR EDUCATORS, ACCORDING TO NATIONAL PDK POLL The 51st annual PDK Poll of the Public’s Attitudes Toward the Public Schools finds that Americans overwhelmingly support increasing investments in the nation’s public schools: six in 10 parents say their schools are underfunded, and 74 percent say they support a strike by teachers for higher pay. The poll also finds that educators are fed up as 60% of teachers say they’re unfairly paid and 75% of teachers say their community’s schools are underfunded. “Over the last several years, hundreds of thousands of NEA members and parents have stood together for the public schools our students deserve, creating the nationwide #RedForEd movement that has won increased investments in students in states across the nation,” said NEA President Lily Eskelsen García. “And yet, while the #RedForEd movement has helped more students and educators get the support they need, today’s PDK Poll should remind everyone that there is still so much more work to be done to correct the years of inadequate funding of our public schools.”

HEALTH

SYMPOSIUM EXAMINES MAKING ORAL HEALTH CARE MORE ACCESSIBLE A panel of distinguished leaders recently discussed the roles of the public, private, and philanthropic sectors in identifying and addressing the factors that lead to disparities in health care at the 2019 National Dental Association Convention (NDA) President’s Symposium which explored the challenges associated with bridging the health gap in the 21st century. The panel was held on July 20th at the Renaissance Downtown Hotel in Washington, D.C. For over 100 years, the NDA has been a national forum for minority dentists and a leader in advancing their rights. The NDA promotes oral health equity among people of color by harnessing the collective power of its members, advocating for the needs of and mentoring dental students of color, and raising the profile of the profession in their communities.

LAW & POLITICS

JOINT LETTER SIGNED BY 17 INSURANCE COMMISSIONERS SENT TO HHS SECRETARY ALEX AZAR Illinois Department of Insurance Director Robert Muriel recently joined 17 Commissioners representing tens of millions of American insurance consumers in a letter sent to U.S. Secretary of Health and Human Services Alex Azar, urging him to protect rules that address unfair treatment of transgender consumers. The letter states that changes proposed by the Trump Administration will undermine civil rights protections for millions of consumers, create an uneven playing field for health insurers and negatively affect state insurance markets. The proposed changes affect Section 1557 of the Affordable Care Act, which prohibits sex discrimination in health insurance and clarifies protections for transgender Americans from being denied lifesaving, medically necessary care. On May 24, 2019 the Trump Administration proposed regulations that seek to roll back protections that ensure equal protection from discrimination by insurers and providers.

Former Johnson Publishing Headquarters Transformed Into Residential Building Continued from page 1 BY KATHERINE NEWMAN

For decades, Johnson Publishing Company was iconically headquartered in an 11-story building on South Michigan Avenue. The building, located on 820 S. Michigan Ave., was designed by John Warren Moutoussamy and is the first and only downtown Chicago high-rise to be designed by an African American. Johnson Publishing Company is an American publishing company that was founded in 1942 by African American businessman John H. Johnson and was headquartered in Chicago. The company is most known for publishing Ebony and Jet Magazines which were specifically created for African American readers. In 2017, the city of Chicago added the Johnson Building to its list of city landmarks and shortly thereafter, 3L Real Estate, a leading developer of vintage real estate, took on the task of transforming the office building into 150 rental apartments. During the renovation, 3L Real Estate attempted to salvage and repurpose as much as they

Through a door on the top floor of the transformed high-rise at 820 S. Michigan Ave., residents can look out at Lake Michigan and the museum campus as they sit under the historic Ebony and Jet signs that are affixed to the top of the building. Photo Credit: 3L Realty

could and while there wasn’t a lot there when they took over the building, they did manage to preserve some carpet and wall coverings to repurpose as mid-century modern decor and pay homage to the way the building looked when it was home to Johnson Publishing Company. “Both as proponents of historic restoration and adaptive

reuse, all of us at 3L are excited to tackle this project that is graced by the city’s front lawn,” said Joe Slezak, chief executive officer of 3L Real Estate, at the time of the renovation. “We will preserve the character of the original structure and signage while providing affordably priced options for housing in this vibrant and increasingly

popular neighborhood.” The studio, one-bedroom, two-bedroom, and three-bedroom units are priced on the lower end of the spectrum when it comes to downtown living. The monthly apartment rental prices average from $1,495 for a studio unit to $3,600 for the three-bedroom unit. The rental prices vary depending on the what floor the unit is on, the square footage, and the view the tenant will have from inside their apartment. While most of the inside structure of the building is completely different as residential space than it was when it was used as an office, Mr. Johnson’s private residence that he kept inside the building has remained in-tact. The one-bedroom unit is laid out just as it was when Johnson stayed there and has a perfect view of Lake Michigan. Another iconic feature that was preserved is the Ebony and Jet signs that sit on top of the building and overlook the new outdoor terrace on the top floor. To learn more about the building or to view viable floorplans visit www.820michigan.com.

Color Him Father Book Tour Stops On South Side To Host Conversation For Black Fathers BY KATHERINE NEWMAN

After the death of his 41-year-old daughter, Dr. Lawrence Drake II turned to literature to help him cope with his loss. Eventually, he realized that what he was going through was something that many fathers struggled with and made the decision to publish his book, Color Him Father, where he explores the trauma, grief, and healing process that fathers go through after losing a child. “In 2017, I lost my oldest daughter and as I tried to come to grips with the loss, I was looking for literature, or just places that I could go, that would give me some comfort as I was trying to navigate my feelings. What I discovered, even though I’m a psychologist by training, was that I couldn’t really find anything that spoke to me as a black man and more specifically as a black father,” said Drake. As he searched for something to read or somewhere to go for support as a grieving black father, Drake saw some irony in the fact that he had about 10 friends who were also black fathers and had lost a child. He took it upon himself to create a resource for his friends and other black fathers who were coping with their grief. “The motivation for this book was not

Dr. Lawrence Drake II (pictured), author of Color Him Father, recently visited Chicago on a tour for his book where he hosted an intimate conversation with black fathers. Photo Credit: Provided by Dr. Lawrence Drake II

just about dealing with the loss of a child but also looking at how we celebrate the life of our children in perpetuity,” said Drake. “I went about the process of interviewing the men, talking to them, recording their stories, and writing the book.” Most recently, Drake was in Chicago at

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Fellowship Missionary Baptist Church, 4543 S. Princeton Ave., on the Color Him Father book tour. During the event, Drake discussed his book with attendees and also hosted an intimate conversation with black fathers. “The book is an important catalyst for the event but our objective is much broader. We wanted to speak to black men who are in pain who are hurting and to a large degree, those hurting from loss and the loss of their children,” said Drake. “There are a lot of fathers who have been affected by some of the deaths that have occurred, particularly violent deaths that have occurred in Chicago of late.” The recent conversation with black fathers in Chicago was moderated by Darryl Dennard and featured Micheal Bennet and Lovell Thornton along with Dr. Drake who shared their experiences of losing a child. “I don’t think we talk about the mental trauma that many men experience,” said Drake. “I wanted to get people to come and be in an environment to talk about things and also to expose them to the belief that they can need to seek help when they’re hurting and know that there are opportunities to do that without any stigma or judgment.” Color Him Father is available for purchase on www.amazon.com.

CITIZEN | Chicago Weekend | Week of Aug. 14, 2019

NEWS

Inclusion of Community Health-Based Services Reduces Emergency Room Utilization An analysis of data compiled by AmeriHealth Caritas’ clinical and health care analytics teams indicates that high-risk Medicaid members who receive community-based services, with an emphasis on screening for and addressing the social determinants of health, experience a reduction in hospitalization rates. Social determinants of health are the conditions in which people are born, grow, work, live, and age, and shape the conditions of daily life, according to www.who.int The website https://www.healthypeople.gov, reports that these factors significantly impact a person’s well-being and lifespan. Addressing the social determinants of health is fundamental to AmeriHealth Caritas’ integrated health care delivery model—the Next Generation Model of Care. The Medicaid managed care organization has established a protocol for its Community Care Management Team – consisting of community health navigators, licensed nurses and social workers – to assess any socioeconomic factors that may contribute to poor health outcomes for Medicaid members. During the last quarter of 2018, AmeriHealth Caritas analyzed the outcomes of nearly 1,000 members who have one or more chronic

IN ADDITION TO PROVIDING HEALTH SCREENINGS AND HEALTHY LIVING CLASSES, THE COMMUNITY WELLNESS CENTERS CONNECT MEMBERS TO ESSENTIAL COMMUNITY RESOURCES THAT CAN HELP MEMBERS REMOVE SOCIAL AND ECONOMIC BARRIERS TO ACHIEVING GOOD HEALTH. illnesses – such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes or high blood pressure – that have led to multiple hospital readmissions, and evaluated their claims, their hospital utilization rates, and responses to standardized survey questions about the social determinants of health. The Medicaid managed care organization concluded that its community health services initiatives were successful in reducing emergency room visits and inpatient admissions. Specifically, members experienced the following improvements when they received community-based services alongside clinical care: l A 26.3 percent drop in inpatient admissions; l A 27.2 percent reduction in inpatient days; l A 9.7 percent drop in emergency department visits; l A 22 percent reduction in potentially preventable admissions; l A 12 percent reduction in potentially pre-

ventable emergency department visits. “In our many decades as a community-focused organization, we intuitively understood what the data reveals: that there is a clear relationship between poor health and socioeconomic factors such as employment status, income and nutrition,” said Dr. Fred Hill, AmeriHealth Caritas’ senior vice president of population health. “We cannot achieve health equity for our members if we do not address these social determinants of health and, ultimately, poverty itself. Health literacy, food insecurity and transportation to medical facilities, for example, are markedly more prevalent among the same high-risk member population than all other members surveyed. When compared to all other members, 34 percent of high-risk members surveyed reported a lack of health literacy; 23 percent experienced food insecurity; and 23 percent lacked transportation to

Bulletproof school backpacks developed with harsh ‘realities in mind’ In the wake of more devastating mass shootings in the United States and a school year soon starting, ArmorMe, the maker of bulletproof school backpacks is reminding parents and college students that it is possible to increase one’s level of security. “As horrible as these deadly events are, they are an unfortunate fact of life in the United States,” according to security specialist and Israel Defense Forces Colonel (ret). Gabi Siboni. As the school year starts in the coming weeks, we are sadly certain that school shootings will happen,” he said. “The ArmorMe backpack was developed with these realities in mind.” The backpacks were designed by Israeli security specialists and are made with level IIIA NIJ Protective Panels,

the super-strong bulletproof material used in personal armor including combat helmets and bulletproof vests. A single paneled backpack costs $160 to $190 with coverage from neck to knee when worn in front. The double-paneled backpack costs $210 to $250 and provides coverage for both sides of the torso, according to a press release. The bags are available at Amazon and at ArmorMe.com. “We built this backpack to address the daily reality of student life. We wanted a pack that was stylish, and light and comfortable, could carry a laptop and would last multiple academic years. At the same time, we built this backpack to withstand gunshots,” added Siboni. For more information, visit www. ArmorMe.com.

Double Bullet-resistant Panels Backpack

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medical facilities. Data collection and analysis is a key tenet of the Next Generation Model of Care, which focuses on whole-person health and includes the Community Care Management Team’s protocol to address the social determinants of care. By capturing data and information from more members and health care providers, the organization will gain insight to guide the ongoing execution of strategies that target economic, social and environmental barriers that create health disparities in underserved communities. Hill said the organization’s community wellness centers also have an important role in helping members mitigate the prevalence and progression of chronic diseases. In addition to providing health screenings and healthy living classes, the community wellness centers connect members to essential community resources that can help members remove social and economic barriers to achieving good health. “By developing strategic partnerships with social service organizations within communities we serve, we can help members and their caregivers address the non-medical factors that can affect their lives,” he said. “We know it’s a non-traditional approach to health care, but it is one that clearly works.”

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BUSINESS

Savoy Honors Katten’s Chief Diversity Partner on List of “Most Influential Women in Corporate America”

Katten Partner and Chief Diversity Partner Leslie D. Minier

Katten Muchin Rosenman LLP recently announced that Corporate Partner and Chief Diversity Partner Leslie D. Minier was recognized among the “Most Influential Women in Corporate America” by Savoy magazine. Minier has extensive experience representing both private and public companies in mergers and acquisitions, venture financing and general corporate matters. She also advises private equity funds making investments, engaging in leveraged buyouts of and selling portfolio companies. In her dual role as both partner and Katten’s first chief diversity partner, Minier has been instrumental in implementing a number of programs at the firm that have helped improve efforts to recruit, hire, promote and retain talented diverse attorneys. “Leslie has shown tremendous dedication to driving cultural change at the firm and in the broader legal industry as a staunch advocate for more diversity and inclusion,” said Katten Chairman Roger P. Furey. “We are proud to have a member of the Katten team receive such an important honor.” Minier also has been named to Lawyers of Color’s inaugural

“Nation’s Best” list this year for demonstrating a commitment to advancing diversity and inclusion in the legal profession. Additionally, she earned spots on Savoy’s 2018 list of “Most Influential Black Lawyers” and Crain’s Chicago Business’ 2018 list of “Chicago’s Notable Minority Lawyers” for her contributions to the legal profession in Illinois and beyond. The summer issue of Savoy, a business and lifestyle magazine that highlights professional success among African Americans, features a definitive listing of black women impacting corporate America. “We’ve worked diligently through research and networking to assemble this prestigious listing that leads the industry in documenting women achieving professional success at the greatest heights of business,” said L.P. Green, II, publisher of Savoy magazine. “Savoy is proud to celebrate

these African American executives, leading global corporations, impacting our communities, and our world in important ways.” Katten is a full-service law firm with nearly 700 attorneys in locations across the United States and in London and Shanghai. Clients turn to Katten for counsel locally, nationally and internationally. The firm’s core areas of practice include corporate, financial services, insolvency and restructuring, litigation, real estate, environmental and workplace safety, commercial finance, intellectual property, structured finance and securitization, and trusts and estates. Katten represents public and private companies in numerous industries, including a third of the Fortune 100, as well as a number of government and nonprofit organizations and individuals. For more information, visit www.kattenlaw.com.

SignaPay LTD. Opening of New Office in Illinois SignaPay Midwest, a merchant services provider, has partnered with SignaPay LTD. to bring their suite of merchant service offerings to the greater Chicago area. With over 10 years of combined merchant services experience, SignaPay Midwest services small-to-mid sized businesses located in the Midwest with their payment processing and merchant account needs. A main offering from SignaPay Midwest is the service fee program, PayLo. It is the first legally vetted service fee technology that allows merchants in all 50 states to offset their operational costs by applying a small customer service fee to each sale they make and gives merchants the option to offer discounts to customers who pay in cash. “I’m excited to bring PayLo to the Midwest and give merchants the option

to earn extra income to cover their costs of doing business,” said Derek Lapis owner at SignaPay Midwest. PayLo is available for all payment types, including all major mobile wallets such as Apple Pay, Android Pay, and Samsung Pay. This fully mobile payment technology is also compatible with wireless terminals as well as POS systems. It’s quick to install, no equipment leasing is required and there are no long-term contracts – making it an ideal solution for merchants, according to a press release. “SignaPay Midwest demonstrates our commitment to growth and expansion,” said Matt Nern, senior vice president. Derek’s dedication to excellence, combined with our mission to deliver outstanding service, has earned SignaPay the exceptional reputation it holds today.”

BRIEFLY

CWA-Represented Employees Vote to Ratify Midwest Wireline Agreements Leadership of the Communications Workers of America District 4 has notified AT&T* that CWArepresented employees have voted to ratify two agreements in Midwest wireline contract negotiations. The Midwest agreement covers employees in Illinois, Indiana, Michigan, Ohio, and Wisconsin. CWA-represented employees also voted to ratify the smaller SBC Global Services/AT&T Corp.-COS contract, which covers certain employees in Michigan. The two four-year agreements collectively cover about 8,000 employees. www.thechicagocitizen.com

CITIZEN | Chicago Weekend | Week of Aug. 14, 2019

NEWS

6 Things You Need to Know About Vaccinations StatePoint - As misinformation continues to spread about vaccines, medical experts are reminding parents and the general public that vaccinations save lives. “Overwhelming scientific evidence shows that vaccines are among the most effective, safest interventions to prevent illness and protect public health,” says Dr. Patrice A. Harris, president of American Medical Association (AMA). To help dispel misconceptions about vaccinations, the AMA is offering answers to six commonly asked questions. 1. Are vaccines safe? Yes, vaccines prevent individual illness and protect the health of the public. Currently, the U.S. has the safest vaccine supply in its history, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The most common side effects are typically very mild, such as pain or swelling at the injection site. 2. Is it true that if everyone else is vaccinated, my family doesn’t need to be? No. Vaccines not only protect the child or adult who receive them, but also the health of their communities. Some people cannot be vaccinated

“Overwhelming scientific evidence shows that vaccines are among the most effective, safest interventions to prevent illness and protect public health,” says Dr. Patrice A. Harris, president of American Medical Association (AMA).

-- including very young children, cancer patients and those who are immunosuppressed. When immunization rates are high, people in these categories are protected because they’re less likely to be exposed to

the disease. As evident from recent measles outbreaks in several states, when individuals aren’t immunized as a matter of personal preference or misinformation, they put themselves and others at risk of disease.

3. What vaccinations do my children need? Children should be vaccinated according to the recommended schedule of the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices, which is designed to protect young children before they’re likely to be exposed to potentially life-threatening diseases and when they’re most vulnerable to serious infections. For the latest recommended childhood vaccination schedule, visit cdc.gov/vaccines/ schedules. 4. I don’t want my children to get vaccine-preventable diseases. What’s the earliest age they can be vaccinated? Children can receive their first flu vaccine starting at 6 months old. The recommended age for the first dose of measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine is 12 to 15 months of age. If you live in a community experiencing an outbreak, or if you travel internationally, your baby may be vaccinated as early as 6 months of age. Talk to your pediatrician for additional information about when early vaccination may be appropriate. 5. I’m an adult, do I need to get vaccinated? Yes, adults need vaccines too. Sometimes immunity from

childhood vaccines can wear off over time. Adults may also need vaccinations because of their age, job, travel and health conditions. Talk with your doctor to determine which vaccines you need, and visit www2a.cdc.gov/ nip/adultimmsched for an online assessment tool. 6. Hasn’t the U.S. eradicated the major diseases that require vaccines? One of the country’s greatest public health success stories is the remarkable decrease in infectious diseases as the result of vaccines. Unfortunately, that success has led some parents to stop vaccinating their children against diseases like measles, meningitis, polio and diphtheria. However, these diseases still exist, and can still debilitate and kill. If people stop getting vaccinated, diseases that were once considered eradicated could reemerge -- which is what’s been happening with measles outbreaks across the U.S. More information can be found at cdc.gov/vaccines. Want to keep your family healthy and your community safe? Be sure to check your immunization status and stay up-to-date with vaccines.

6 | CITIZEN | Chicago Weekend | Week of Aug. 14, 2019

FASHION

Fossil Group launches nextgen smartwatches

Research shows that if a bath is taken at the right time – 1 to 2 hours before bedtime, it will aid the natural circadian process and increase one’s chances of not only falling asleep quickly, but also get a quality sleep.

Science Proves A Bath 1-2 Hours Before Bed Improves Sleep Bioengineers from The University of Texas at Austin want to improve your sleep. Researchers in the Cockrell School of Engineering found that taking a warm bath 1-2 hours before bedtime can help you fall asleep faster and improve your overall quality of sleep. In collaboration with the UT Health Science Center in Houston and the University of Southern California, the UT researchers searched all relevant databases — looking at a total of 5,322 studies. They pulled information from publications with specific criteria to explore the effects of warm shower/bath, on a number of sleep-related conditions including: sleep onset latency-- the length of time that it takes to accomplish the transition from full wakefulness to sleep, total sleep time, sleep efficiency-- the amount of time spent asleep relative to the total amount of time spent in bed intended for sleep, and subjective sleep quality. The paper explaining their method was recently published in the journal of Sleep Medicine Reviews. The findings show the optimal time to bathe to cool down your core body temperature is 1-2 hours prior to bedtime. This helps increase the circulation of blood from the internal core of the body to the peripheral sites of the hands and feet

resulting in very efficient removal of body heat and decline in overall body temperature. Therefore, if a bath is taken at the right time – 1 to 2 hours before bedtime, it will aid the natural circadian process and increase one’s chances of not only falling asleep quickly, but also get a quality sleep. “When we looked through all studies, we noticed significant disparities in terms of the approaches and findings,” said Shahab Haghayegh, a Ph.D. candidate in the Department of Biomedical Engineering and lead author on the paper. “The only way to make an accurate determination of whether sleep can, in fact, be improved was to combine all the past data and look at it through a new lens. Yes, the data proves that a warm shower or bath before bed does make a huge difference in your overall sleep quality. I shower every night before bed now,” he said. As a next step, the research team is working with UT’s Office of Technology Commercialization in the hopes of designing a commercially viable bed with the UT-patented Selective Thermal Stimulation Technology that allows thermoregulatory function to be manipulated on demand and dual zone temperature-controlled bed. The bed can be tailored to maintain an individual’s optimum temperatures throughout the night.

Fossil Group, Inc. (NASDAQ: FOSL) recently announced proprietary nextgen touchscreen smartwatch technology and the latest evolution in hybrid smartwatches. “We’ve made multi-day battery life for touchscreen smartwatches possible with one touch – a disruptor for smartwatches on the Wear OS by Google platform. And, we’re leading the industry on Wear OS by Google by enabling tethered phone calls for iPhone users,” said Fossil Group Executive Vice President and Chief Commercial Officer Greg McKelvey. “Both advancements are the result of our unrelenting focus on advancing wearable technology. We’ll Fossil Group will launch nextgen smartwatches this fall/ continue to integrate the holiday season. Pictured: Fossil Gen 5 touchscreen latest tech features our smartwatches. customers need with the l Increased Storage: Tech styles they love.” enhancements double the storage With innovative designs and space (to 8GB) and memory (to 1GB enhanced capabilities, Fossil Group’s RAM), allowing users to download latest smartwatch technology simply more apps and media while enhancing delivers. The sleek and modern nextgen performance smartwatches are available this fall/ l Experiences: Leveraging the holiday season from Fossil brand and enhanced storage, Fossil Group is autofrom three other to-be-named Fossil installing apps – such as Cardiogram, Group brands. These new products Spotify, Noonlight – to select nextgen will be Fossil Group’s most advanced smartwatches smartwatches ever, thanks to new l Processor: An updated processor features including: l Extended Battery Life: An exclusive features the latest Qualcomm® Snapdragon Wear™ 3100 platform app offers one-swipe access to four “We’re closely aligned with our battery modes – Daily, Extended, partners at Google to ensure we’re Time-only and Custom. Extended constantly iterating within the Wear battery mode unlocks multi-day usage OS by Google platform to deliver the by keeping on essential features such as most desired smartwatch features and notifications and heart rate on a single, benefits,” said McKelvey. “We listened one-hour charge l Voice Calling: A newly-added to our customers and knew that longer battery life and tethered iPhone calls speaker and a Fossil Group proprietary were essential in our nextgen products.” app launching later this Fall enables In addition to new touchscreen iPhone users to make and receive calls smartwatch innovations, Fossil Group while tethered to their phones; all other will introduce a new category of hybrid users are immediately able to make and smartwatches this fall/holiday seasons. receive tethered voice calls from the Ultimately filling an identified gap in the nextgen smartwatches. With the launch wearables market, this new category of of this app, Android users will be able to hybrid smartwatches has functionality benefit from a more seamless transition similar to a touchscreen smartwatch between Bluetooth devices when taking with the look and feel of a classic watch, calls from their smartwatch l Microphone and Swimproof while still offering long battery life. Fossil Group, with over $400 Speaker: A swimproof speaker million in wearable device sales in eliminates the need for an additional 2018, will launch more than 100 new sound-dampening mesh barrier to smartwatch styles across 10 brands this keep out water; smartwatch users can 2019 fall/holiday retail season. Brands get things done with help from Google and specific styles will be revealed Assistant and hear responses back, take throughout the season. To learn more, phone calls, get audible alerts, play visit www.fossilgroup.com. music and more

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CITIZEN | Chicago Weekend | Week of Aug. 14, 2019

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8 | CITIZEN | Chicago Weekend | Week of Aug. 14, 2019

ENTERTAINMENT

Hebru Brantley, in Partnership with MWM Universe and Angry Hero, to Open ‘Nevermore Park’ Hebru Brantley, MWM Universe and Angry Hero, are partnering to create Nevermore Park, a neo-futuristic take on Chicago—where black culture and heroes are at the forefront. Visitors to Nevermore Park will be transported into the fictional hometown of Brantley’s iconic characters: Flyboy and Lil Mama. The interactive art installation spans

nearly 6,000 square feet and is scheduled to open in the fall of this year. “Nevermore Park is meant to be a fun, accessible, and invigorating experience for audiences of all ages to participate in a narrative-driven fine art installation,” Brantley, founder of Angry Hero, says. “This project is about reclaiming history—both in the United States and the city of Chicago—

through a lens that speaks to empowerment and giving agency to a historically disenfranchised community.” Nevermore Park will be a ticketed experience and have a limited run. Powered by Brantley’s imagination, this installation is the beginning phase of a larger Flyboy Universe franchise being built by MWMU. “For the first time people will be able to

walk into Nevermore Park,” Diana Williams, executive vice president of Creative at MWMU says. “We are excited to open the doors and invite people to become a part of what MWMU and Angry Hero have been working on. There is so much more to share in the world of Flyboy and Lil Mama.” More updates will be provided via the @ flyboyuniverse Instagram account.

“I Believe Tour” Comes To Chicago Captain Sandy Yawn, star of Bravo’s hit series Below Deck Mediterranean, will headline an evening of inspiration, entertainment and live music when she brings her “I Believe Tour” to Chicago on Saturday, August 17. The esteemed superyacht captain turned television star will be joined by singer Leah Shafer for the one-night-only event, sponsored by Invest In Us Ventures, an organization dedicated to helping women-owned businesses build equity. Who: Captain Sandy Yawn With three decades of yachting experience, Captain Sandy is the first female captain featured on Bravo’s Below Deck Mediterranean and one of only a handful of female captains in the yachting industry at large. As such, Captain Sandy has had to overcome both personal and professional obstacles, in addition to a

Captain Sandy Bravo TV’s Below Deck Mediterranean

life-threatening motorcycle accident and even cancer. The strength and resilience that helped her beat the odds at every turn have also made her one of the most respected captains in the industry, one of television’s most beloved personalities and an icon of women’s leadership. What: I Believe Tour Captain Sandy brings her signature “LeadHERship” style to the stage. Through personal stories and a journey behind the scenes, Sandy parlays her experiences into lessons

in survival and success certain to uplift, energize and impact anyone’s life trajectory. Ticket prices are: General Admission for $60. VIP for $100, including a meet and greet with Captain Sandy, open bar and hors d’oeuvres and $10 credit toward the purchase of merchandise. All proceeds from ticket sales will be donated to the Jacksonville School for Autism and ocean conservation organizations. Tickets available at: https://www.eventbrite. com/e/the-captainsandy-ibelieve-tourtickets-64669518270 When: Saturday, August 17 4:00PM – 5:00PM VIP Hour 5:30pm – 7:00PM I Believe Tour Program Where: John Barleycorn 3524 N Clark St. Chicago, IL 60657

Captain Sandy leadHERship

“Love & Marriage: Huntsville” Returns With All New Episodes

OWN: Oprah Winfrey Network has unveiled the explosive new trailer for its hit reality series “Love & Marriage: Huntsville,” which returns with all new episodes Saturday, September 7 (9 p.m. - 10 p.m. ET/PT). The series, which follows three powerful African American couples working in real estate in the thriving city of Huntsville, Alabama: Melody and Martell Holt, Marsau and LaTisha Scott and Maurice and Kimberlee Scott, will also feature a new couple www.thechicagocitizen.com

Cedarric and Adaira Collins, both good friends of the Holts and Scotts. This season being a power couple doesn’t mean the perfect couple as Martell works to try and win back his estranged wife Melody. LaTisha doesn’t allow her husband Marsau to get in her way as she puts her homemaker days behind to put her real estate license to good use. Kimberlee is forced to reconcile with the challenges of a blended family as she deals with Maurice’s son and ex-wife’s

potential move to Huntsville. While there’s still a lot of love to go around, neither business nor pleasure seem to be getting any less hectic for these couples. Catch up on the first eight episodes of the series on the WATCH OWN app. “Love & Marriage: Huntsville” is produced by Kingdom Reign Entertainment and ITV America with Carlos King, Bernie Schaeffer, Rob Cornick and Andrew Hoagland serving as executive producers.

CITIZEN | Chicago Weekend | Week of Aug. 14, 2019

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CALENDAR

Bank of America Chicago Marathon

The Chicago Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events (DCASE) will host the 3rd Annual SummerDance Celebration at Millennium Park on Saturday, August 24, from 1 until 8pm. Photo Credit: City of Chicago

DCASE Announces SummerDance Celebration The Chicago Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events (DCASE) will host the 3rd Annual SummerDance Celebration at Millennium Park on Saturday, August 24, from 1 until 8pm to culminate ten weeks of dancing, music and community during the 2019 Chicago SummerDance Series. Admission is free and the dance jubilee will feature a full day of competitions, social dancing, participatory workshops and performances by local dance companies. This year, the festivities will once again represent music and dance from many different styles and cultures. From line dancing to Lil Nas X 2019 hit, “Old Town Road,” a Bollywood workshop,

salsa and urban dance lessons, competitions and a Dance Village in Wrigley Square highlighting dance companies and advocacy groups from across Chicago, there will be something for everyone no matter the age or skill level. The Jay Pritzker Pavilion will feature a Chicago Dance Showcase from 6:30 to 7:30pm with performances from Hubbard Street Dance Chicago, Cerqua Rivera Dance Theatre, Joel Hall Dancers, Rated ‘E’ Chicago Dance Crew and others. The celebration will close with a dance blowout on the Great Lawn at 7:30pm hosted by DJ Selah Say. For the complete schedule, visit chicagosummerdance.org.

In its 42nd year on Sunday, October 13, the Bank of America Chicago Marathon welcomes thousands of runners from more than 100 countries and all 50 states, including a worldclass elite field, top regional and Masters runners, race veterans, debut marathoners and charity runners. The race’s iconic course takes runners through 29 vibrant neighborhoods on an architectural and cultural tour of Chicago. Annually, an estimated 1.7 million spectators line the streets cheering on more than 40,000 runners from the start line to the final stretch down Columbus Drive. As a result of the race’s national and international draw, the Chicago Marathon assists in raising millions of dollars for a variety of charitable causes while generating $338 million in annual economic impact to its host city. The 2019 Bank of America Chicago Marathon, a member of the Abbott World Marathon Majors, will start and finish in Grant Park beginning at 7:30 a.m. on Sunday, October 13. In advance of the race, a two-day Health & Fitness Expo will be held at McCormick Place Convention Center on Friday, October 11, and Saturday, October 12. For more information about the event and how to get involved, go to chicagomarathon.com.

Lincoln History is Celebrated Daily at the 2019 Illinois State Fair Bring the entire family to experience a wide variety of fun interactive events, demonstrations, and performances celebrating the life and times of Abraham Lincoln on the grounds of the Illinois State Fair now through August - 18. Every day from 10 a.m. - 4 p.m., re-enactors and performers from throughout the Looking for Lincoln - Abraham Lincoln National Heritage Area will offer FREE demonstrations and performances sharing the Lincoln story with fairgoers. First, just inside the historic Main Gate, the lawn of the Illinois Building will come alive with blacksmithing, broom making, pioneer games, rope making, and candle making, while Civil War reenactment musicians play the tunes of the day. Don’t miss acclaimed musician Chris Vallillo, who will be performing some of Lincoln’s favorite songs. New this year is an intriguing rail splitting demonstration, giving a glimpse of the hard work of Lincoln in his adolescent years.

Second, stop by for a chat and photo with President Lincoln all 10 days of the fair. Be sure to post your photos and hashtag them with #HistoryInYourBackyard. Looking for Lincoln may choose your photo to share on their Facebook page! Events on the lawn are partially supported by a grant from the Illinois Arts Council Agency. Third, it’s time to get creative with the Flat Lincoln photo contest! Flat Lincoln loves

having his picture taken at the State Fair and at historic sites around Illinois. The more creative the better! To participate, go to www. lookingforlincoln.com and navigate to the Flat Lincoln page. Print out Flat Lincoln, cut him out, and take him with you to the fair or other historic site. Post your best images on Facebook, and hashtag your photo with #FlatLincoln. The best images will be posted on the Looking for Lincoln Facebook page, and

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prizes will be awarded to the favorites. Time to get snapping! Fourth, stop by the Looking for Lincoln Area to pick up your commemorative “Lincoln on a Stick,” courtesy of the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum. These extremely popular masks go fast, so claim yours before they run out - supplies are limited! And finally, just for kids, an exciting scavenger hunt has been developed in partnership with the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum. This activity encourages children to explore the history in their own backyard, and learn more about Lincoln’s life and times. Children who complete the scavenger hunt will receive a coupon for admission to the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Museum in downtown Springfield. For more information about the Looking for Lincoln Heritage Coalition and the Abraham Lincoln National Heritage Area, go to www. lookingforlincoln.com.

CITIZEN | Chicago Weekend | Week of Aug. 14, 2019

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niently access water from any tap or public water fountain. The bottle is also great for use while camping or hiking and even traveling internationally, since it can remove bacteria and parasites. And because it removes bad tastes and odors from water, it is also a useful item for kids with sensory defensiveness who smell or taste water. The brand carries options well-suited for older children, teens and college students, too. Benefitting not only the user, but children around the world, each LifeStraw water bottle provides a school child in need with safe drinking water for an entire school year. Their programs are implemented in places like Kenya, Mexico and India. More information can be found at lifestraw.com. Parents can learn more about policies affecting the safety of drinking water in their child’s school, as well as access a Healthy Schools Checklist, by visiting the Environmental Protection Agency’s website at: www.epa.gov/schools. For a safer, healthier school year, don’t forget to put a filtered water bottle on your family’s back-to-school shopping list. __________________________________

FAMILY LIVING Make a Statement: 4 Back-toSchool Trends to Try (StatePoint) Fashion trends are cyclical and those in the know love it! From chunky soles to bold colors and oversized brand logos, this back-to-school season, 90sinspired sneakers are all the rage. Here are some tips on how to stay comfortable and on-trend this school year from Laryssa Grant, a young adult buyer for national family footwear retailer, Rack Room Shoes. Jewel Tones, Pops of Color Fashion is a form of expression, and right now shoes are doing all the talking. Simple clothing choices paired with bold, jewel-toned shoes make getting dressed easy and fun. Shoes to Try: Vans sneakers in red, blue, purple or yellow. Vans’ retro styles come in a variety of vibrant colors and patterns with sizes for school-aged girls and boys -- and parents, too. Big Logos When it comes to clothing and shoe choices this school year, there’s no need for subtlety. Bigger is better. Bolder is better. Top brands are embracing this concept in their logo designs. Shoes to try: A variety of brands such as Nike, Adidas, Fila and Converse offer styles this season that kick it up a notch with brighter and more pronounced logo choices. Prints and Patterns In the past, mixing patterns has been taboo, but according to Grant, it’s now encouraged. Patterned shoes are no longer treated as a statement shoe, but rather as a neutral that can be mixed and paired with any item in the closet. Shoes to try: Converse has put a fun twist on its classic style with floral and rainbow patterns. Paired with a swing dress or jeans and a t-shirt, these styles make even the most standard outfit unique. Chunky

EMPLOYMENT - DRIVERS IS IT TIME TO SHIFT GEARS? $1600 Sign-on Bonus! EXPERIENCED DRIVERS *Flatbed *Step Deck *Van *LTL Reefer. Pay is 26% Gross Flatbed/Step Deck & up to .53/mile Van/Reefer. Full benefits w/FREE Health & Life Insurance, 6 paid Holidays + Industry leading Driver Bonus Program! Must have Class A CDL. Call Ruth or Mike at TTI Inc 1-800-222-5732 Apply online ttitrucking.com __________________________________

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HEALTH Does Your Child’s School Have Safe Drinking Water? (StatePoint) As millions of kids around the country trade swimsuits and popsicle sticks for backpacks and pencils, parents should be advised that current research shows that contaminants in school drinking water can pose a threat to student health. Municipal water, which is not always optimal quality, may contain chemicals, bacteria, lead or microplastics -- all contaminants which have been found in tap and fountain water in schools nationwide. Lead, in particular, is a major concern due to old metal pipelines and systems that carry water into schools. According to a Harvard study published in 2019, 44 percent of the nearly 11,000 schools tested nationwide had one or more water samples with a lead concentration at or above their state’s action level. What’s more, a lack of federal quality standards and statewide requirements for testing school wat

sources and pipelines means that schools may have an undiscovered problem or that test results may not always be public knowledge. While students who use school water can be at risk of consuming unsafe contaminants, there are practical steps families can take to help ensure kids are hydrating safely while at school, one of which is using a filtered water bottle. “Sending my children to school with a water bottle that filters out contaminants is an easy way to ensure my kids can always access clean and safe water at school,” says Tara Lundy, a mother of three and head of brand at LifeStraw, who arms her own children with a bottle that can filter fountain water on-the-go. At a time when environmental health advocates are calling for the proactive removal of lead-bearing parts from schools’ drinking water systems, parents can start protecting their children’s health today with filtered water bottles. An option designed specifically with children in mind is the LifeStraw Play featuring a two-stage filter that protects against bacteria, parasites, microplastics, some chemicals and heavy metals like lead. Using a filtered water bottle with this level of protection means that kids can safely and conve-

Remember when mom jeans became a fashion must-have? A style better known as “chunky dad shoes” are just as hot this year. For men, women and kids of all ages, sneakers with extra thick soles take a casual look to the next level and provide comfort for even the most active little feet. Shoes to try: Fila is nailing the chunky sole trend and has sneakers in sizes for the whole family. For one-stop-shopping during the backto-school season, parents can visit the Kids Club at Rack Room Shoes in stores or online at rackroomshoes.com. “Back-to-school shopping is always an exciting time for families,” says Grant. “And this year parents can revisit the styles they loved while helping their children express their individualities.” __________________________________

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