Chatham-Southeast Citizen 5-08-2019

Citizen

U.S. schools struggle to staff themselves due to the increasing teacher shortage — Page 2 Week of May 8, 2019

| Vol. 55 | No. 6 | www.thechicagocitizen.com

CHATHAM SOUTHEAST

Betty Shabazz students model their new uniforms designed by their very own alum Desmond Owusu.

PAGE 4

Lawmakers, university officials warn of higher ed cuts without new revenue

YOUNG DANCER FROM THE SOUTH SIDE RECEIVES ACCEPTANCE LETTER FROM THE JUILLIARD SCHOOL

PAGE 5

Eighteen-year-old Amari Frazier lives in Chicago’s Chatham neighborhood on the south side and has been dancing almost as long as he has been alive.

PAGE 2

FASHION

Introducing Chaka

by Indique PAGE 6

Chatham native, Amari Frazier (pictured) is a senior at The Chicago Academy for the Arts and recently learned that he was accepted to attend The Juilliard School in New York City to continue his life-long dance training. Photo Credit: Thomas Mohr Photography

|

|

|

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

2 | CITIZEN | Chatham Southeast | Week of May 8, 2019

NEWS briefly EDUCATION

FOOT LOCKER FOUNDATION, INC. SURPRISES HIGH SCHOOL SENIOR WITH $20,000 COLLEGE SCHOLARSHIP Foot Locker Foundation, Inc. recently surprised high school senior Cade Pinalto of Chicago with a celebration and an oversized check in the amount of $20,000 as part of its annual Foot Locker Scholar Athletes Program at Lane Tech High School.

From the classroom to his community, Cade is an inspiring example of overcoming obstacles to become the best that he can be. Having founded Sidelined USA, a non-profit that supports athletes who can no longer compete due to a career-ending injury or condition, he has built up his volunteer/mentor staff and actively sought out partnerships and sponsorships to further help other student athletes. He’s also a student basketball coach and a stadium announcer for the baseball team. Achieving academic success with a 4.7 GPA and working towards getting into one of the top ten business programs in the country, the Foot Locker Scholar Athlete Scholarship will help Cade as he pursues an education in business finance and looks forward to helping others achieve their goals.

To date, the Foundation has distributed nearly $3 million in college scholarships to 140 deserving high school seniors.

HEALTH

BLUE CROSS AND BLUE SHIELD OF ILLINOIS OPENS FIRST-EVER NEIGHBORHOOD-BASED CENTER Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Illinois (BCBSIL) has opened a new door to help build healthier communities. The Blue Door Neighborhood Center is the first-ever neighborhood-based center for BCBSIL. The center is aimed at improving community health by addressing common health challenges with wellness classes, connections to social services and customer engagement.

The center is open to everyone – BCBSIL members and non-members - and offers no-cost programming focused on whole-person health: physical, mental and social. There will be classes and programming targeting chronic health conditions, such as diabetes, asthma and heart disease, behavioral health, as well as parent and child wellness. Visitors can enjoy fitness classes, learn how to better use health insurance and be connected to community resources that provide access to food or transportation. For more information, visit www.bluedoorcenteril.com or call the center directly at (773) 253-0900.

LAW & POLITICS

STATE TREASURER FRERICHS’ I-CASH PROGRAM BREAKS RECORD, RETURNS $200 MILLION A record-breaking $200 million in forgotten cash and securities has been returned to its owners during the past 10 months, Illinois State Treasurer Michael Frerichs said recently. It is the largest amount in the program’s 58-year history.

Such milestones typically are recorded in July to capture the state’s entire fiscal year, which is July 1- June 30. With two months remaining in the current fiscal year, that means the state treasurer’s office will shatter previous records set in fiscal years 2018, 2017 and 2016.

Young Dancer From The South Side Receives Acceptance Letter From The Juilliard School Continued from page 1

BY KATHERINE NEWMAN

Eighteen-year-old Amari Frazier lives in Chicago’s Chatham neighborhood on the south side and has been dancing almost as long as he has been alive. Frazier is currently a senior at The Chicago Academy for the Arts and after graduation, he plans to go on to continue his dance training at The Juilliard School in New York City.

“I started dance classes when I was about four. I started with tap dancing and then my sister was doing other styles of dance so my mom decided to put me in those too,” said Frazier. “She kind of forced me to dance and I didn’t think I’d like it because it was a bit of a girl activity but I started to like it.”

Growing up on the south side, Frazier said his mom wanted him to have something safe and creative to do in his free time and dance quickly became that for him.

“There’s a higher chance for the people in my neighborhood to be on the street due to everything that is going on around there and I think dance like really helped me build relationships with different people,” said Frazier.

“Dance helped keep me safe and I think that other people should get into activities such as dance or anything that can really help them expand their horizons because everyone has a dream and if they want to fulfill it, it is possible.”

Prior to setting his sights on attending The Juilliard School, Frazier attended a summer intensive program where he was able to work with dance teachers and students from Juilliard for a short period of time. During the summer program, he fell in love with the school.

“After I did the summer intensive, I went home and I was like I have to go to Juilliard so I wrote the admissions essay and I was working really hard in my classes so I could be even better when I went to audition for

the actual school,” said Frazier.

The Juilliard School is well known as a world leader in performing arts education for musicians, dancers, and actors from around the world. Frazier said that he was overjoyed when he found out, the day after his 18th birthday, that he had been accepted to attend Juilliard.

“I knew that attending Juilliard was what I wanted to do all along and I really wouldn’t want to be anywhere else so I was really happy,” said Frazier.

In addition to training and preparing himself for Juilliard, Frazier has also dedicated some of his time to sharing the benefits of dance with others through Step Into Joy, a nonprofit organization that he co-founded with three friends.

After finishing his training at Juilliard, Frazier said that he wants to return to Chicago and continue expanding Step Into Joy and work to create an affordable dance academy so more people can have access to dance.

U.S. schools struggle to staff themselves due to the increasing teacher shortage A new report by EPI Economist Emma García and Research Associate Elaine Weiss finds that schools are finding it increasingly difficult to attract and retain staff due to a growing teacher shortage. Adding to the shortage, teachers are leaving their schools and the profession at rates higher than professionals in other occupations and larger than in previous years— and fewer people are entering the teaching profession than in recent years.

“The acute teacher shortage schools have been suffering from in the past few years really jeopardizes the quality of the education that American students are receiving,” said García.

“Schools can’t staff themselves with teachers appropriate to their needs and who would better serve their students. This trend has been worse for students at high-poverty schools.”

When polled about the 2011–12 school year, principals responded that, a year later, 13.8 percent had left their school.

Within this group, almost half left the school to teach at a different one and a slightly larger group had left teaching all together.

In addition to the high rates

“Schools can’t staff themselves with teachers appropriate to their needs and who would better serve their students. This trend has been worse for students at high-poverty schools.”

of turnover and attrition, the number of individuals actively on track to pursue a career in teaching has significantly declined from 2008 to 2016.

During that time, there was a 37.8 percent drop in people enrolling in teacher preparation programs, a 27.4 percent drop in people completing teacher preparation programs, and a 15.4 percent drop in total education degrees awarded.

Given these trends, it is not surprising that principals report difficulties in filling vacancies in schools. In 2015–16, over one-third of schools were having

www.thechicagocitizen.com

trouble filling a vacancy, compared to fewer than one-in-five during the 2011–12 school year.

The authors found that these struggles schools face to staff themselves properly are hurting the teaching workforce by making it less experienced overall, driving some fully certified teachers out of the profession, and causing staff instability—and the problem is worse for high poverty schools.

For example, the overall share of newly hired teachers was 11.2 percent in the 2015–16 school year. However, it was 10.1 percent in low-poverty schools

versus 12.1 percent in high poverty schools. Similarly, the overall share of all teachers who are newly hired and in their first year of teaching was 4.7 percent, but just 3.7 percent in low-poverty schools, compared to 5.3 percent in high poverty schools.

“Kids in high-poverty schools are getting hit hardest by the teacher shortage,” said Weiss.

“Clearly we need policies that help more passionate people to become credentialed teachers and make a career of public education, and support those who are already teaching so that they can progress their careers.”

CITIZEN | Chatham Southeast | Week of May 8, 2019

|

3

NEWS

Mayor-Elect Lori Lightfoot Meets With Leaders Of Chicago’s Black Print Media Outlets

BY KATHERINE NEWMAN

As Mayor-Elect Lori Lightfoot prepares to be sworn in on May 20, she has been doing her due diligence by meeting with various Chicago leaders to hear their concerns and needs, answer their questions, and share her visions with them.

Most recently, Lightfoot called on a group of leaders from Chicago’s Black print media to participate in a round table discussion.

As the meeting began, Lightfoot welcomed both reporters and publishers from the Citizen Newspaper, the Chicago Defender, the Crusader, Bronzeville Life, Truth Be Told News, and The Final Call.

Right away, members of Chicago’s black print media began to discuss some of the city’s most pressing issues like equitable economic development, race relations, public safety, minority representation in city contracts and accessibility and transparency from the Mayor’s office.

Lightfoot said, with regards to making city projects more inclusive and focused on wealth building, the least Chicago can do is ask larger contractors to prove that they are committed to

Lori Lightfoot Photo Credit: Provided by Mayor-Elect Lori Lightfoot

partnering with minority groups, women, and veterans in their overall business plan and not just when the city requires them to.

She added, “We have to think about what can the city do to use its power through contracting and otherwise to help build wealth?”

“We are going to send the message and we are going to start speaking our values in a very profound way through our buying power in the market place,” said Lightfoot.

When talking about race relations in the city, there was a general consensus between Lightfoot

Underwood Introduces Legislation to Address Veteran Suicide Crisis

Rush Reintroduces Legislation to Normalize Relations with Cuba U.S. Representative Bobby L. Rush (D-Ill.) recently reintroduced legislation to normalize relations with the Republic of Cuba.

H.R. 2404, the United States–Cuba Relations Normalization Act will lift the trade embargo and remove restrictions on commerce and travel.

“As I’ve said for years, lifting the trade embargo with Cuba is important and is something that I was proud to see the Obama Administration prioritize and make progress towards,” said Rush.

“I remain committed to fostering strong U.S.–Cuba relations and undoing and undo decades of disastrous policy — exacerbated by the Trump Administration — which has done nothing but undermine the United States’ global

standing and ability to engage with one of our closest neighbors who shares a rich diversity and history with us.”

This bill is a serious remedy to the Trump Administration’s ill-informed and ignorant approach to American foreign policy.

“Recent reports have suggested that, among other things, the Trump Administration’s hostility towards Cuba will be further escalated by increased restrictions on travel, remittances, and trade. This is absolutely the wrong course of action and will only serve to further hurt the people and industries impacted by the ongoing Trump Trade War. My bill will correct this error by establishing a full diplomatic and trade relationship with Cuba.”

and the Black print media representatives that successful and prominent African Americans in Chicago must step up and speak out against the disinvestment, violence, and inequity that affects the south and west sides of the city.

When asked about what kind of a Mayor she plans to be, Lightfoot shared that she plans to be as present and accessible as possible and she’ll hold the mayor’s office accountable for the city services they are responsible for providing. She also said that she is working on a plan to have regular availability for media.

“My focus is not going to be on winning the day’s press cycle. My focus is going to be on government and making good on the mandate that we have received,” said Lightfoot. “I will be available to the press on a regular basis so that you won’t feel like I’m some rare migratory bird.”

Overall, the Black print media round table discussion was productive and Lightfoot stated that this will not be a one time occurrence and she will continue to meet with this group to make sure that they are able to work collaboratively with the Mayor’s office and bring important city news to their readers.

U.S. Representative Bobby L. Rush

www.thechicagocitizen.com

Congresswoman Lauren Underwood (IL-14) recently announced she has introduced new legislation to address the veteran suicide public health crisis. The Veterans’ Care Quality Transparency Act would ensure both the VA and outside providers are offering veterans high-quality mental health and suicide prevention services.

Underwood spoke about the legislation in a House Veterans Affairs Committee hearing on veteran suicide recently.

“In Illinois, the suicide rate for veterans is almost double the rate of the general population.

Not only are these numbers troubling in my home state, but they are the reality for veterans across the country. While I commend the VA’s efforts to address suicide among veterans, much more must be done to curb this national crisis.

The Veterans’ Care Quality Transparency Act will help address this growing crisis and ensure veterans receive quality mental health and suicide prevention services from the VA and with outside providers,” said Congresswoman Underwood.

More than 7,300 veterans, servicemembers, reservists, and members of the National Guard die by suicide each year—around 20 per day. Underwood’s legislation would direct the Government Accountability Office to assess the effectiveness of memoranda of understanding and agreement that the VA has entered into with entities providing mental health and suicide prevention services, to ensure that they are providing high-quality care. The bill ensures the review provides information specifically on the veterans being served who are women, minorities, seniors, as well as veterans’ families.

4 | CITIZEN | Chatham Southeast | Week of May 8, 2019

Chatham page 4

CITIZEN On The Move

Alum Designs New Uniforms to Reflect Cultural Pride for Betty Shabazz Academy Students

BSICS New School Uniforms Designed by alum Desmond “Des Money� Owusu

Desmond Owusu Debuts New Designs, Launches Website to Raise Money for Free Uniforms

The creative genius of author, fashion designer Desmond "Des Money" Owusu, a 2002 graduate of Betty Shabazz Academy on Chicago's South Side, is always at work. Last month, the 31-year-old organized a unique fashion show at Shabazz featuring his newest collection, We Real Cool school uniforms. The project is a fundraiser to provide free uniforms to Shabazz' 300 students.

"I've always been intrigued with the language of clothes and how they can speak. The old concept 'if you look good, you feel good' has always been a notion that is very relevant today," says the mentor and part-time school instructor.

"Taking this idea of looking good and feeling good as the foundation, I thought it would be interesting to see if I could help change the narrative of school uniforms from being boring and lame to something more meaningful, fun, cool, unique, and most importantly, culturally relevant."

Although he's worked on several projects over the years, Owusu says this project is near and dear to his heart. "Growing up at Shabazz was enlightening. It is a very special school," says Owusu. "I've always wanted to make a meaningful contribution to BSICS; always wanted to give back. Designing new school uniforms was the perfect platform."

Earlier this year, the right opportunity came along. Using a grant from Chicago Votes, the non-partisan, non-profit organization that aims to build a more inclusive democracy by putting power in the hands of young Chicagoans, Owusu secured the seed money to design and create prototypes for the new culturally relevant uniform line. We Real Cool was born.

Students at Betty Shabazz Academy Model New His inspiration for the designs came from, School Uniform among others, the BSICS community and family values, school co-founder Haki Madhubuti's poems, and old school pictures. In fact, We Real Cool is a poem written by poet, author, and teacher Gwendolyn Brooks. She was the first African American to receive a Pulitzer Prize. Owusu's choice of colors for the collection is symbolic, too. The seven designs are showcased in red, black and green - colors of the Pan-African flag. Red signifies the blood that unites us; black is for the people; and green is for the motherland of Africa.

He hopes the new uniforms will bring new energy to the students and the school. "I wanted to take the values of the school and put them in a cooler context. When you look and feel good, it usually motivates you to do better."

Keeping pace with the legacy set by fellow BSICS alumni, Des Money created We All We Got street wear and coowns and manages the Fat Tiger Workshop, an African-American owned clothing boutique. In addition, nearly three years ago, Owusu self-published and co-authored Too Fly Not To Fly, a children's photo book that promotes critical thinking and encourages self-esteem in young Black children. The book is available at all Chicago Public Library branches and in 2017 was listed as a CPL Best Picture Book and Kids Staff Picks.

Although grateful for the grant, it only covered making the samples and the look book. Now, Owusu says he needs to raise more funds. "My goal with the project is to fundraise at least $6,000 to cover production costs to be able to donate two uniform pieces to each student at BSA." To support the uniform project, visit https://www.werealcool.us/ Betty Shabazz International Charter Schools is accepting new students for the 2019-20 school year.

BSICS offers students a safe, nurturing New school uniforms created by BSA alum holistic learning environment where Desmond Owusu they are stimulated academically and experience a curriculum inclusive of STEAM (science, technology, engineering, arts, music), robotics club, dance, physical education, and are served chef-prepared vegetarian meals daily.

Since its inception, BSICS has consistently produced exemplary, high-achieving students who have a strong sense of cultural identity and a commitment to make positive contributions to the community and the world. For more information, visit www.bsics.org or call 773.651.2426.

BSA Young Queens New BSICS School Uniforms Reflect Pride WWW.THECHICAGOCITIZEN.COM

CITIZEN | Chatham Southeast | Week of May 8, 2019

|

NEWS

Lawmakers, university officials warn of higher ed cuts without new revenue Gov. Pritzker has proposed a 5 percent funding increase, but his budget relies on new taxes

BY PETER HANCOCK Capitol News Illinois phancock@capitolnewsillinois.com

SPRINGFIELD – Democrats in the Illinois House, along with officials from each of the state’s public universities, warned Wednesday that hard during the two-year budget unless the state finds new sources of impasse of 2015 to 2017 because revenue, there likely will have to be the state was not under any legal or funding cuts to higher education in court-mandated obligation to fund the upcoming budget year. higher education.

“For years, our universities As a result, she said, during the have been unfairly treated as their 2015-2016 budget year, colleges and state has decreased funding to the universities received no appropriauniversities,” Rep. LaShawn Ford, a tions until April 2016, and even then Chicago Democrat and chairman of received only about 30 percent of the House higher education budget their normal funding. She said that committee, said during a Statehouse news conference. “Last year’s funding resulted in significant cuts in university programs and services. level is not adequate enough, and as “Our biggest competitor is not an we go through the budget, we learn out-of-state university or a commuthat the revenue to meet (the fiscal nity college or a private university year 2019) level is not there.” in Illinois,” she said. “It is nowhere.

Ford said state funding for higher education peaked in 2002 around $2.4 If our students don’t have these services, they go nowhere, and just billion. For the current budget year, to put it in crass terms, they will not the state is expected to spend only become the affluent taxpayers that about $1.8 billion, roughly 25 percent will support the state.” less than it spent 17 years ago.

Barbara Wilson, executive vice Ford was joined in the news president of the University of Illinois conference by officials from each system, said further cuts in higher of the state’s public universities, as education funding would have a big well as other members of the higher GET SOCIAL STAY impact on the state’s largest university. education budget committee.

SOCIAL “Across the U of I system we are edPresident ElaineGET Maimon ofWITHSTAY CONNECTED THE GET SOCIAL STAY ucating 52 percent of the students who Governors State University, which CONNECTED WITH THE CITIZEN NEWSPAPER INC. in this state,” go to public institutions serves a large population of first-gen-GROUP CONNECTED WITH THE Wilson said. “So I always say, if you hurt eration students, students of color, CITIZEN NEWSPAPER GROUP INC. U of I, you’re hurting a big chunk of the CITIZEN NEWSPAPER INC. and military veterans, said collegesGROUP students and families in the state.” and universities were hit especially

In his budget proposal, Democratic Gov. J.B. Pritzker called for a 5 percent, or $52.2 million, increase in state funding for public colleges and universities. He also proposed increases in various kinds of state-funded student financial aid.

But Pritzker’s budget plan hinges on lawmakers approving a number of new taxes and revenue streams, including licensing fees for the sale and production of legalized marijuana, and new revenues from legalized sports betting, both of which could have a direct impact on college and university campuses.

“What I do know is that the University of Illinois and their think tank is providing a study of various revenue options,” Governors State University’s Maimon said in a separate interview after the news conference.

“It should be out in the next week or so. We are looking forward to that.”

BRINGING MOMENTUM TO YOUR SAVINGS.

2.00 2.40 %

APY1

Read Us On Read UsISSUU.com On ISSUU.com

Read Us On ISSUU.com

Send press releases to: Editorial@thechicagocitizen.com

Send press releases to: Editorial@thechicagocitizen.com Send press releases to: Editorial@thechicagocitizen.com Visit us at www.thechicagocitizen.com

us at www.thechicagocitizen.com Visit usVisit at www.thechicagocitizen.com

%

APY2

OR

MONEY MARKET

$25,000 new money to open and earn promotional APY.

Open Today!

GETSOCIAL SOCIAL STAY GET STAY CONNECTED WITH CONNECTED WITHTHE THE CITIZENNEWSPAPER NEWSPAPER GROUP CITIZEN GROUPINC. INC.

Barbara Wilson, executive vice president of the University of Illinois system, speaks about the impact additional funding cuts to higher education could have on the state’s largest university during a news conference with Reps. Nicolas Smith (rear left) and LaShawn Ford, the vice chair and chairman of the House higher education budget committee. Capitol News Illinois photo by Peter Hancock

10 MONTH CD

$5,000 new money to open.

Open to CDs and IRAs.

Open online at FirstMidwest.com/SavingsOffers

Promotional rate and APY are available to individuals only from Illinois, Indiana, Iowa and Wisconsin. Minimum balance to open and earn the promotional rate and APY is $25,000 in new money. New money is defined as funds not on deposit with First Midwest Bank within the last 90 days. Promotional rate and APY are valid as of 5/1/19. Rates are variable and subject to change at any time without notice. Monthly Maintenance Fee of $15 will be charged if the daily account balance any day of the month falls below $1,000. A transaction fee of $15 per item will be charged if the Regulatory Transaction Limit is exceeded. Offer is subject to change and may be withdrawn at any time without notice.

Annual Percentage Yield is based on monthly compounding. Fees may reduce earnings.

2 Limited time offer may be withdrawn at any time, cannot be combined with any other offer or rate enhancements, and is open to individuals only from Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, and Wisconsin. Individual Retirement Accounts (IRA) are eligible. Annual Percentage Yield (APY) is valid as of 4/18/19 and assumes monthly compounding for Certificate of Deposit (CD) and quarterly compounding for IRA with a 2.40% APY. Minimum balance to open CD and earn stated APY is $5,000 in new money. New money is defined as money not on deposit with First Midwest Bank at or within 90 days prior to account opening. Money must remain on deposit for length of time specified to earn stated APY. The 10 month CD will automatically renew in 9 month intervals earning the then current APY of the traditional 9 month CD. Penalty for early withdrawal. Fees may reduce account earnings. No brokered deposits.

1

www.thechicagocitizen.com

5

6 | CITIZEN | Chatham Southeast | Week of May 8, 2019

FASHION “MY HAIR HAS ALWAYS BEEN ARGUABLY AS ICONIC AS MY VOICE. THIS COLLABORATION WITH INDIQUE ALLOWS ME TO SHARE A PIECE OF MYSELF WITH EVERY WOMAN EVERYWHERE ... I HOPE THAT YOU LOVE IT!” CHAKA KHAN

Introducing Chaka by Indique Indique Hair recently announced the launch of its new hair-wig line with Chaka Khan.

Icon Chaka Khan and her longtime friend and hairstylist, George R. Fuller, love Indique and desired to create special pieces highlighting Chaka’s signature textured looks.

Chaka by Indique’s iKhanic Curl is a full adjustable wig with an undetectable 4x4 freestyle parting lace closure.

Created using Indique’s Bounce Coil Curl, these luscious curls have a unique coiled pattern that allows you to create a gorgeous tightly curled hairstyle, or brush it through for a natural afroinspired look.

“I’ve spent half my life, which entails my career, with the legend who is considered Every Woman- Chaka Khan! She has entrusted her crown and glory with my hands for a couple of decades. It gives me immense pleasure, joy, and great excitement to partner with another legendary brand in the hair & beauty industry. To bring to women everywhere the iKhanic line- Chaka

by Indique,” said Fuller.

Chaka by Indique’s iKhanic Straight is a full adjustable wig with an undetectable 4x4 freestyle parting lace closure.

Created using Indique’s Bounce BlowOut, iKhanic Straight can be worn in its natural state, curled, or flat ironed. This texture has low luster, making any style look super natural.

“Never in my wildest dreams would I have thought that I would be partnering with my favorite hair icon, the one, and only Chaka Khan. This is a major moment in the

Chaka by Indique is an exclusive collection designed for every woman everywhere! Icon Chaka Khan and her longtime friend and hairstylist, George R. Fuller, love Indique and desired to create special pieces highlighting Chaka’s signature textured looks.

hair extension industry and I’m thrilled to offer the Chaka experience to everyone who loves Indique,” said Ericka Dotson, Indique’s co-founder and creative director.

Chaka by Indique is available for purchase at www.chakabyindique.com, www.indiquehair.com, and at the Indique Hair Boutiques.

Walk in Any Terrain With Multi-Purpose Foldable Sock Shoe In response to expensive products featuring a lack of functionality in the waterproof sock and shoe industry, a new company, Ventex Inc., (https:// www.drymileshoes.com/about ), is seeking to provide an allterrain, affordable waterproof sock shoe, Drymile, that incorporates all the benefits of an outdoor shoe into one convenient design.

Driven by their passion for the outdoors, the team at Ventex Inc. developed Drymile, a multi-terrain sock shoe adaptable to any outdoor or indoor activity, including skiing, snowboarding, or home use. The company’s unique footwear combines rain boots and sneakers into a single economical product that can fold up like a sock. The design also provides outdoor enthusiasts with the ability to

buckle Drymile to pants or any bag utilizing its pro buckle design, freeing them from having to walk around in heavy ski/snowboarding boots in winter conditions.

Ventex has launched a Kickstarter campaign, (https://www.kickstarter.com/ projects/drymile/drymile100-waterproof-packablesock-shoes ), to spread awareness about their product among consumers, outdoors enthusiasts and the investment community.

In response to expensive products featuring a lack of functionality in the waterproof sock and shoe industry, a new company, Ventex Inc., (https://www.drymileshoes.com/about ), is seeking to provide an allterrain, affordable waterproof sock shoe, Drymile, that incorporates all the benefits of an outdoor shoe into one convenient design. The company’s unique footwear combines rain boots and sneakers into a single economical product that can fold up like a sock.

www.thechicagocitizen.com

Kamedis Clinical Study Validates Traditional Chinese Botanical Efficacy in Eczema Treatment Kamedis™, a provider of advanced botanical solutions for chronic skin disorders, recently announced the results of a clinical study confirming that the traditional Chinese botanicals in its homeopathic over-the-counter Kamedis Calm Eczema Therapy Cream play a pivotal role in the product’s ability to reduce eczema rashes.

According to the study, the commercially available Kamedis cream was 44% more effective in treating atopic dermatitis than the Kamedis formula without the botanical extracts. It was also 23% more effective than a competitive OTC brand widely used to provide eczema relief.

The double-blind, randomized, controlled study is the first in the U.S. designed to determine the efficacy of traditional Chinese botanicals in commercial dermatologic treatments.

“We know from more than a decade of R&D that our patented combinations of traditional Chinese medicinal herbs help restore damaged skin to health, but the validation in this study is a significant milestone for the company as well as for the millions of people who suffer from eczema,” said Roni Kramer, founder of Kamedis and lead director of its U.S. strategic business unit. “The results demonstrate that ingredients from nature still play a major role in our search for healing. When sourced, extracted and combined properly, they outperform known vehicles and moisturizers in the marketplace.”

The product: Kamedis Calm Eczema Therapy Cream utilizes a patented formulation of Chinese Rhubarb, Great Burnet, Tree of Heaven, Baikal Skullcap, Cnidium Fruit and Licorice extracts along with active and inactive ingredients used in conventional OTC products. Previous studies in published literature have shown that the anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties of these botanicals reduce eczema flareups by protecting the skin from further irritation, maintaining a moist skin environment, and facilitating relief of impaired skin barrier functions.

The method: The clinical trial involved 108 children and adults from ages 3 to 73 with mild to moderate atopic dermatitis who were randomly divided into three groups of equal size. One group used the Kamedis Calm Eczema Therapy Cream, one used the Kamedis formula without the botanical extracts, and one used a leading third-party OTC product. All three groups used a Kamedis wash for the body and face, followed by one of the three randomized treatment creams for the affected areas on the face and body.

The results: After 28 days, patients treated with the complete, botanically rich Kamedis Calm Eczema Therapy Cream showed a 6.8% improvement in rash extent and severity as measured by the Body Surface Area (BSA) score, compared to just 4.7% for the Kamedis cream without the botanicals and 5.5% for the non-Kamedis product. That represents a 44% difference in BSA improvement between the complete Kamedis product and the Kamedis formula without botanicals, and a 23% difference between the complete product and the competitive OTC product.

In addition, clear improvement was visually evident after 28 days of using the Kamedis cream. No adverse events were reported.

“This is a ground-breaking study that documents the therapeutic benefits of traditional Chinese botanicals in pharmaceuticals for the first time,” said Kamedis Vice President Clinical, Regulation and QA Deganit BarakShinar. “This has significant implications for the rest of Kamedis’ product line, future product development

by Kamedis and others, and consumers seeking better solutions for various health conditions.”

Complete results are scheduled for publication in the June issue of Journal of Drugs in Dermatology.

CITIZEN | Chatham Southeast | Week of May 8, 2019

NEWS Collins speaks out against deceptive marketing by power companies CHICAGO – State Senator Jacqueline Collins (D-Chicago) recently spoke out in support of a plan by Attorney General Kwame Raoul to hold power companies accountable for deceptive marketing intended to ensnare customers into more expensive utility plans.

“As we are all trying to be more mindful of our personal environmental impact, it is unfortunate that some alternative retail electric and gas suppliers have used misleading marketing to prey upon consumers. At a time when so many families in Illinois fight just to keep the heat on, these high-priced energy contracts are particularly predatory, targeting those who can least afford a higher bill,” Collins said. “That’s why I’m glad to cosponsor the HEAT Act and work with Attorney General Raoul in bringing an end to these practices.”

The HEAT Act (SB 651) would protect consumers by: ● Improving the Attorney General’s existing authority to protect consumers from suppliers’ unlawful and deceptive marketing practices;

● Protecting public energy assistance funds, LIHEAP (Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program) and PIPP (Percentage of Income Payment Plan), from being wasted to pay the higher prices charged by alternative retail energy supporters; ● Requiring the utility’s comparison price to be included on all supplier marketing materials, during telephone or door-to-door solicitations, and on every consumer’s utility bill so consumers can make informed price comparisons; ● Requiring suppliers to notify customers before their rates rise so consumers can take informed action; ● Preventing suppliers from renewing a consumer’s contract and raising rates without notifying the consumer of the new rate and obtaining the consumer’s consent; and ● Requiring suppliers to report their rates to the Illinois Commerce Commission and Attorney General.

The measure is scheduled for consideration in the Illinois Senate.

C I T Y

O F

C H I C A G O

D E PA R T M E N T

O F

PROCUREMENT SERVICES

|

7

VENDOR

FA I R 2019

WE D N E SDAY, MAY 1 5 , 2 0 1 9 10: 00 a . m . t o 2 : 0 0 p . m .

UI C F OR U M 725 WE ST R OOS E V E LT R OA D CHICA G O, I L 6 0 6 0 8 LEARN ABOUT CONTRACTING OPPORTUNITIES WITH THE CITY OF CHICAGO, SISTER AGENCIES, COOK COUNTY, STATE, AND FEDERAL AGENCIES. ATTEND SEVERAL BUSINESS WORKSHOPS, LEARN HOW TO JOIN CONSTRUCTION TRADE UNIONS, FIND FINANCIAL, INSURANCE, AND BUSINESS ASSISTANCE.

B:10.75”

F o r mo re i n f o rma t i o n a n d t o re g i st e r, v i si t www. v endo r f a ir. i n fo o r sc a n t h e Q R C o d e

T:10.75” S:10.75”

This is more than great rates This is more savings for wherever you’re going.

Platinum Savings Account

2.10

%

Annual Percentage Yield for 12 months with new money deposits of at least $25,000 and a minimum daily account balance of $25,000 or more1

Guaranteed Fixed-Rate CD

Offers available in AK, IA, ID, IL, KS, MN, MO, MT, NE, UT, WI and WY. Portfolio by Wells Fargo® customers are eligible to receive an additional bonus interest rate on these accounts.3 1. To qualify for this offer, you must have a new or existing Platinum Savings account and enroll the account in this offer between 03/25/2019 and 05/31/2019. This offer is subject to change at any time, without notice. This offer is available only to Platinum Savings customers in the following states: AK, IA, ID, IL, KS, MN, MO, MT, NE, UT, WI and WY. In order to earn the Special Interest Rate of 2.08% (Special Rate), you must deposit $25,000 in new money (from sources outside of Wells Fargo Bank, N.A., or its affiliates) to the enrolled savings account and maintain a minimum daily account balance of $25,000 throughout the term of this offer. The corresponding Annual Percentage Yield (APY) for this offer is 2.10%. The Special Rate will be applied to the enrolled savings account for a period of 12 months, starting on the date the account is enrolled in the offer. However, for any day during that 12 month period that the daily account balance is less than the $25,000 minimum, the Special Rate will not apply, and the interest rate will revert to the standard interest rate applicable to your Platinum Savings account. As of 02/15/2019, the standard interest rate and APY for a Platinum Savings account in AK, ID, KS, MN, MO, MT, NE and WY with an account balance of $0.01 to $9,999.99 is 0.05% (0.05% APY), $10,000 to $49,999.99 is 0.15% (0.15% APY), $50,000 to $99,999.99 is 0.25% (0.25% APY) and with an account balance of $100,000 and above is 0.35% (0.35% APY); and for a Platinum Savings account in IA, IL, UT and WI with an account balance of $0.01 to $99,999.99 is 0.05% (0.05% APY) and with an account balance of $100,000 and above is 0.10% (0.10% APY). Each tier shown reflects the current minimum daily collected balance required to obtain the applicable APY. Interest is compounded daily and paid monthly. The amount of interest earned is based on the daily collected balances in the account.

Upon the expiration of the 12 month promotional period, standard interest rates apply. Minimum to open a Platinum Savings account is $25. A monthly service fee of $12 applies in any month the account falls below a $3,500 minimum daily balance. Fees may reduce earnings. Interest rates are variable and subject to change without notice. Wells Fargo may limit the amount you deposit to a Platinum Savings account to an aggregate of $1 million. Offer not available to Private Banking or Wealth customers. 2. Annual Percentage Yield (APY) is effective for accounts opened between 03/25/2019 to 05/31/2019. The 11-month New Dollar CD special requires a minimum of $25,000 brought to Wells Fargo from sources outside of Wells Fargo Bank N.A., or its affiliates to earn the advertised APY. Public Funds and Wholesale accounts are not eligible for this offer. APY assumes interest remains on deposit until maturity. Interest is compounded daily. Payment of interest on CDs is based on term: For terms less than 12 months (365 days), interest may be paid monthly, quarterly, semi-annually, or at maturity (the end of the term). For terms of 12 months or more, interest may be paid monthly, quarterly, semi-annually, or annually. A fee for early withdrawal will be imposed and could reduce earnings on this account. Special Rates are applicable to the initial term of the CD only. At maturity, the Special Rate CD will automatically renew for a term of 6 months, at the interest rate and APY in effect for CDs on renewal date not subject to a Special Rate, unless the Bank has notified you otherwise. 1,2.

Due to the new money requirement, accounts may only be opened at your local branch. Wells Fargo reserves the right to modify or discontinue the offer at any time without notice. Minimum new money deposit requirement of at least $25,000 is for this offer only and cannot be transferred to another account to qualify for any other consumer deposit offer. If you wish to take advantage of another consumer deposit offer requiring a minimum new money deposit, you will be required to do so with another new money deposit as stated in the offer requirements and qualifications. Offer cannot be combined with any other consumer deposit offer, except the Portfolio by Wells Fargo $500 offer, available from March 25, 2019 until May 31, 2019. Offer cannot be reproduced, purchased, sold, transferred, or traded. 3. The Portfolio by Wells Fargo program has a $30 monthly service fee, which can be avoided when you have one of the following qualifying balances: $25,000 or more in qualifying linked bank deposit accounts (checking, savings, CDs, FDIC-insured IRAs) or $50,000 or more in any combination of qualifying linked banking, brokerage (available through Wells Fargo Advisors, LLC) and credit balances (including 10% of mortgage balances, certain mortgages not eligible).

If the Portfolio by Wells Fargo relationship is terminated, the bonus interest rate on all eligible savings accounts, and discounts or fee waivers on other products and services, will discontinue and revert to the Bank’s then-current applicable rate or fee. For bonus interest rates on time accounts, this change will occur upon renewal. If the Portfolio by Wells Fargo relationship is terminated, the remaining unlinked Wells Fargo Portfolio Checking or Wells Fargo Prime Checking account will be converted to another checking product or closed. © 2019 Wells Fargo Bank, N.A. All rights reserved. Deposit products offered by Wells Fargo Bank, N.A. Member FDIC. NMLSR ID 399801

T:6.5”

Talk to a banker for details. Offer expires May 31, 2019. Business owner? Ask about our business savings rates.

B:6.5”

Annual Percentage Yield for an 11-month term with new money deposits of at least $25,0002

S:6.5”

2.40

%

8 | CITIZEN | Chatham Southeast | Week of May 8, 2019

CITIZEN | Chatham Southeast | Week of May 8, 2019

|

9

10 | CITIZEN | Chatham Southeast | Week of May 8, 2019

CITIZEN | Chatham Southeast | Week of May 8, 2019

|

11

CLASSIFIEDS SERVICE

Notice is hereby given, pursuant to “An Act in relations to the use of an Assumed Business Name in the conduct or transaction of Business in the State,” as amended, that a certificatio was registered by the undersigned with the County Clerk of Cook County.

Registration Number: Y19001058 on the 9th day of April 2019. Under the Assumed Business Name of KB TAX SERVICE with the business location at: 8931 S. RICHMOND, EVERGREEN PARK, ILLINOIS 60805. The true and real full name(s) and residence address of the owner(s) /partner(s) is: Owner/Partner Full Name KARLA BURNETT Complete Address 8931 S. RICHMOND, EVERGREEN PARK, ILLINOIS 60805, USA. _________________________________________

SERVICE

Darrell Garth

President /Publisher

Janice Garth

Sales Manager General Manager

Editorial

PROFESSIONAL SERVICES CHICAGO TRANSIT AUTHORITY Advertisement for Professional Services SMALL BUSINESS ENTERPRISE(SBE) PROGRAM Sealed proposals will be received for the following by Chicago Transit Authority at the Bid Office, 2nd Floor, 567 West Lake Street, Chicago, Illinois 60661-1498, no later than 3:30 P.M. on Friday, May 31, 2019: Req. B19FT04577, Request for Proposals (RFP) to Provide Event Management Services for the CTA's Red and Purple Modernization Program, RPM Phase One, for a Period of Up to Three Years with Three OneYear Options.

A Pre-Proposal Meeting will be held on Wednesday, May 8, 2019 at 3:30 p.m.

(CST) at 567 West Lake Street, 2nd Floor Bid Conference Room, Chicago, Illinois 60661. Proposers must e-mail they are attending no later than 5:00 p.m.

(CST) Tuesday, May 7, 2019 to: pmckenna@transitchicago.com.

Questions regarding this RFP must be submitted in writing no later than 4:30 p.m. (CST) Friday, May 10, 2019 via e-mail to: pmckenna@transitchicago.com.

Vendors must submit their written ques tions in a Word document. Questions will not be accepted after this date and time.

For additional information, please contact Patrick McKenna, Senior Procurement Administrator, 312/681-2458.

Any contract resulting from this bid is subject to a financial assistance between the Chicago Transit Authority, the United States Department of Transportation and the Regional Transportation Authority.

The contractor will be required to furnish certified copies of any and all Insurance Policies required in relation to this contract prior to CTA's execution.

EMPLOYMENT - DRIVERS 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 __________________________________

MISCELLANEOUS LEGAL SERVICES NEED LEGAL HELP? Get a FREE referral to an attorney! Call the Illinois State Bar Association Illinois Lawyer Finder The advice you need 877-270-3855 or h t t ps : / / w w w. i s b a . o r g / p u b l i c / i l l i n o i s lawyerfinder __________________________________ TRAINING/EDUCATION AIRLINE CAREERS FOR NEW YEAR BECOME AN AVIATION MAINTENANCE TECH. FAA APPROVED TRAINING. FINANCIAL AID IF QUALIFIED - JOB PLACEMENT ASSISTANCE. CALL AIM 800-481-8312. __________________________________

HEALTH A PLACE FOR MOM has helped over a million families find senior living. Our trusted, local advisors help find solutions to your unique needs at no cost to you.

Call 1-844-363-6919 __________________________________

PUBLIC NOTICE Date: 1st day of May, 2019 Public Notice and Proclamation To All General Public, to All Elected United States Republic Officials and Public Servants of Federal, State, City, and Municipal Governments, Personnel and Corporate Entities: Concerning the Constitution and all Statutory and Civil Law Codes of the Land, etc., Know All Men by These Presents: Notice is hereby given as I Arro Abdul Jamel Bey, Arro Abdul Jamel of the family Bey am the competent Lawful Beneficiary, Heir to the Estate and Owner of ARRO ABDUL JAMEL BEY and competent Lawful Beneficiary, Heir to the Estate and Owner of GEORGE ABDUL JAMEL GILBERT, furthermore known as Estate's.

Notice is hereby given as I Arro Abdul Jamel Bey, Arro Abdul Jamel of the family Bey am the competent Lawful Beneficiary, Executor to the Trust and Owner of NIARA NIKKO GILBERT. Notice is hereby given to all persons

indebted to said Estate's and Trust to make immediate payment and those Persons having claim, objection or interest over and against the same to present them properly authenticated for settlement by the 22nd Day of May, 2019. Persons failing to state a claim, objection or interest over this matter by the 22nd Day of May, 2019, then it stands for the record that thereafter NO claims shall be entertained. Where there are no objections this matter shall stand as Truth.

Whereas, I State, Proclaim, Claim and Declare the following to be true, correct, certain, complete, not misleading, supreme, and not intended to be presented for any misrepresented, 'colored' or improper use or purpose, to wit: Address all matters to: Arro Abdul Jamel; Bey c/o 8708 South Bennett Avenue #174 Chicago Territory, Illinois Republic [60617-9999] __________________________________

RENTAL Room for rent Grand Crossing neighborhood no deposit required has laundry facility use of kitchen full bathroom and central air if interested contact Ms. D 312 208 8870 __________________________________

LEGAL NOTICE

Contractor will be required to comply with all applicable Equal Employment Opportunity laws and regulations and affirmative action requirements of the Federal Transit Administration and Illinois Human Rights Commission.

All bidders will be required to certify that they are not on the Comptroller General's list of ineligible contractors.

Chicago Transit Authority hereby notifies all bidders that it will affirmatively ensure that in regard to any contract entered into pursuant to this advertisement, Disadvantaged Business Enterprise will be afforded full opportunity to submit bids in response to this invitation and will not be discriminated against on the grounds of race, color or national origin in consideration for an award.

PLEASE NOTE: When bids are sent by mail, delivery service or delivered in-person to the CTA Bid Office, the bidders shall be responsible for their delivery only to the Bid Office before the advertised date and hour for the opening of the bids. The Bid Office hours are Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Chicago time, except holidays.

The right is reserved to accept any bid or any part or parts thereof or to reject any and all bids.

All inquiries should be directed to and copies of bid documents obtained from the Bid Office - 2nd Floor, 567 West Lake Street, Chicago, Illinois 60661-1498.

CHICAGO TRANSIT AUTHORITY By: Ellen McCormack Vice President, Purchasing & Supply Chain April 24, 2019 _________________________________________ _

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

Advertising

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

Classified Advertising call us at

(773) 783-1251

Display Advertising call us at

(773) 783-1251

Coverage Areas: CHATHAM-SOUTHEAST

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

SOUTH END

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

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

HYDE PARK

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

CHICAGO WEEKEND

Chicago Westside Communities, Austin and Garfield Park

SUBURBAN TIMES WEEKLY Bloom Township, Chicago Heights, Flossmoor, Ford Heights, Glenwood, Homewood, Lansing ,Lynwood, Olympia Fileds, Park Forest, Sauk Village, South Chicago and Steger

Citizen Newspaper Group Inc., (CNGI), Publisher of the Chatham-Southeast, South End, Chicago Weekend, South Suburban and Hyde Park Citizen and Citizen Suburban Times Weekly. Our weekly publications are published on Wednesday’s (publishing 52 issues annually). Written permission is required to reproduce contents in whole or in part from the publisher. Citizen Newspaper Group, Inc. does not assume the responsibility for nor are we able to return unsolicited materials, therefore they become property of the newspaper and can or will be discarded or used at the newspapers disgratation. Deadlines for advertising is every Friday at noon. Deadlines for press releases are Thursdays at 10 am prior to the next week’s edition. Please send information for the calendar at least three weeks prior to the event.

Send to: editorial@thechicagocitizen.com. For more information on subscriptions or advertising, call us at (773) 783-1251 or fax (872) 208-8793. Our offices are located at 8741 South Greenwood Suite# 107, Chicago, Illinois 60619.

12 | CITIZEN | Chatham Southeast | Week of May 8, 2019

WARNING: This product contains nicotine. Nicotine is an addictive chemical.

Latina smoked for 23 years, and switched to JUUL in 2017.

“My least favorite thing about smoking was the smell.”

Make the Switch Designed for adult smokers. Not for sale to minors.

NOT FOR SALE TO MINORS: This is an age-restricted product and age verification is required at sale.

CALIFORNIA PROPOSITION 65: This product contains chemicals known to the state of California to cause cancer and birth defects or other reproductive harm. © and TM 2019 JUUL Labs Inc. All rights reserved.

JUUL.com

CAMPAIGN: JUUL_US_Q2Testimonials_MPPrint_04231929