Facing weekend august 16 2017

Week of August 16, 2017 Vol 48 • No 33 • www.thechicagocitizen.com

Governmental Affairs

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MARIJUANA JUSTICE ACT INTRODUCED

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By Christopher Shuttlesworth

enator Cory Booker recently introduced the Marijuana Justice Act to call for the legalization of marijuana at the federal level and to help combat the failed War on Drugs.

Booker said in an Aug. 1, 2017 Facebook Live video that “the failed War on Drugs has locked up millions of nonviolent drug offenders, especially for marijuana-related offenses—at an incredible cost of lost human

potential, torn apart families and communities of color and taxpayer dollars.”

Booker stated the United States Federal Prison population has gone up 800 percent and has had a 500 percent increase in incarceration of poor and people of color, the mentally ill, addicted people and veterans since the 1980’s.

He also highlighted that African Americans are almost four times more likely to be arrested for using drugs than whites in the US. During the Facebook Live, Booker quoted Attorney Bryan Stevenson, executive director of the Equal Justice Initiative, who said, “We have

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Senator Cory Booker recently introduced the Marijuana Justice Act to call for the legalization of marijuana at the federal level.

Photo Credit: The Office of Senator Cory Booker

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1GUBERNATORIAL CANDIDATES

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INVITED TO WOMEN’S FORUM

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news GOVERNMENTAL Affairs

Continued from Page 1 Janice Garth

MERIT SCHOOL OF MUSIC TO PRESENTS FREE PERFORMANCE Merit School of Music invites the public to enjoy a free performance of the school’s first fully-staged musical theater production, Into the Woods, Jr.!

Merit’s Conservatory Solo Voice students, Summer Voice Camp students, and students from ChiArts, will bring favorite fairy tales to life in this lyrically rich retelling of classic Brothers Grimm fables.

See Chicago’s musical theater stars of tomorrow perform Into the Woods, Jr! on Saturday, August 19 at 7 p.m., or Sunday, August 20 at 2 p.m. at Merit School of Music, Joy Faith Knapp Music Center, 38 S. Peoria St. in Chicago’s West Loop.

Tickets are free but must be reserved in advance at meritmusic.org/IntoTheWoodsJR. For more information, call (312) 786-9428.

Pappas returns $32 million in overpayments to taxpayers

A program to avoid duplicate property tax payments has handed back $32.3 million to property owners this year, Cook County Treasurer Maria Pappas said on Aug. 10.

The Stop Taxpayer Over-Payment System (STOPS) automatically returns a second tax payment on a property.

Nearly 6,100 double payments were prevented in 2017.

“The program has been helpful to property owners by letting them avoid seeking a refund,” Pappas said. “STOPS also has allowed us to reduce our staff, which saves money for all taxpayers.”

The STOPS program helps taxpayers who have forgotten that they have already paid their taxes. Sometimes, it prevents married couples from paying the taxes separately. More often the program comes into play when two mortgage companies try to pay the same tax bill.

Since STOPS began in 2009, more than 72,000 double payments have been avoided. A total of $306.2 million in duplicate payments have been returned.

HEALTH “GATEWAY TO OZ” TAKES CENTER STAGE

Gateway for Cancer Research founder Richard J Stephenson and Dr. Stacie J. Stephenson recently announced the annual Cures Gala, “Gateway to OZ,” on November 18, 2017 at the Grand Ballroom at McCormick Place, 2301 South King Drive, Chicago. The Emerald Cityworthy event, co-chaired and presenting sponsors Richard J Stephenson and Dr. Stacie J. Stephenson and honorary chair Jim Gordon, Founder & Managing Partner of The Edgewater Funds, will celebrate the “courage, intelligence and heart” of Gateway, a non-profit dedicated to funding transformational cancer research.

Click your heels along a magical journey beginning with a unique culinary experience followed by a special presentation of world renowned entertainment. Tickets are $1,000 per person. For sponsorship opportunities, contact events@gatewaycr.org.

All proceeds from “Gateway to OZ” will help support Gateway for Cancer Research Phase I and Phase II trials across cancer types, including breast, blood and lung cancers.

Gateway’s Associates Board, consisting of young professionals in the Chicago area, will host its annual Be A Hero Cocktail Reception on Friday, November 17, to kick-off the weekend’s celebration.

To purchase 2017 “Gateway to OZ” and Be a Hero Cocktail Reception tickets contact events@gatewaycr.org.

LAW & POLITICS JB Pritzker Rallies with South and West Side Community Leaders

Democratic gubernatorial candidate JB Pritzker recently held a rally at the JLM Life Center on the West Side of Chicago. Pritzker was joined by community leaders and over 500 residents from the South and West Sides of Chicago.

Pritzker discussed issues impacting the African-American community and outlined his plans to expand access to capital for small businesses, ensure equitable school funding for every child in Illinois, increase access to affordable healthcare, and root out racism in the criminal justice system. He was joined by the Business Leadership Council, Chicago City Treasurer Kurt Summers, and Aldermen Pat Dowell, Jason Ervin, Walter Burnett, Emma Mitts, Michael Scott Jr., and Chris Taliaferro.

1Marijuana Justice Act Introduced

IL Dept. on Aging Hosts Senior Day at Illinois State Fair

At this year’s Illinois State Fair, the Illinois Department on Aging (IDoA) hosted a variety of activities for older adults, their families and friends on Senior Day, Monday, August 14th.

The event was open to the public and adults age 60 and older who received complimentary admittance into the fair that day. For more information about the Illinois State Fair, go to Illinois.gov.

Forum gives gubernatorial candidates a chance to speak on women’s issues

By Christopher Shuttlesworth

A grassroots coalition of Illinois women will host a panel discussion to hear viewpoints and policy ideas from Democratic candidates for governor. The panel discussion will take plan on October 26.

The hosting organizations include Women’s March Illinois, Indivisible Illinois and She Votes Illinois. The groups were formed during the 2016 presidential election to help continue the, “national wave of new activism and citizen engagement that is shaping the local and national political landscape.

Liz Kersjes, president of She Votes Illinois, said the newly formed political organization plans to highlight the importance of women’s issues and policymaking in elections.

“The women of Illinois are politically engaged, we are diverse, and we are committed to making our voices heard and respected by our elected officials at every level,” Kersjes said.

The forum, “is a can’t-miss opportunity for women and allies of women to hear from all of the candidates on issues women care about,” she added.

“We want every Illinoisan to make an informed and confident decision when voting in the 2018 primary election.”

Kersjes said the women organizations want to discuss a diverse set of issues that impact on women.

“Specifically, we want to make sure we’re asking questions that are not just important to white

women, but immigrant women, LGBT identified women, women of color, poor women as well as women with different means.”

“We’re going to be soliciting the questions from different community organizations that work on specific issues,” Kersjes said. “For example, I’m not an immigrant woman, so I wouldn’t come up with a question on immigration issues. But I’m going to reach out to an organization who works on immigration in Illinois and ask them what they think the most important community issue is.”

Kersjes said a lot of people know about policies that President Donald Trump or their respective senators are working on, but she says some people may not realize that getting involved at the state and local levels can give them access to their elected officials.

“The elected officials have way fewer constituents so your voice can be heard a lot easier,” she said. “Also, at the state and local level a lot of decisions are being made that directly affect people’s lives.”

Kersjes noted that she understands a lot of people may want to get involved in political issues, but may not know where to start. She says the upcoming women’s forum is a good starting point.

“We want to make sure we have an opportunity to talk to the candidates and let them know the women of Illinois are engaged and want to work with them so the next governor understands our needs,” she added.

www.thechicagocitizen.com • 52 years of serving the Black community

State Treasurer Frerichs, Chicago Lighthouse Announce Plan to Help Veterans, Visually Impaired

The Illinois State Treasurer’s office has partnered with The Chicago Lighthouse to provide customer support for the state’s electronic banking and payment services, state Treasurer Michael Frerichs said Aug. 9.

The partnership ensures excellent customer service for individuals and units of local government using the state’s ePAY services while supporting an organization that provides employment and job training for Veterans and people who are blind, visually impaired and disabled.

“This is an investment in people and in the power of possible,” Frerichs said. “For more than a century, The Chicago Lighthouse has been inspiring individuals to their fullest potential.”

Lighthouse customer care centers will answer questions about the treasurer office’s ePAY program.

Created in 2002, ePAY provides a safe, timely and competitively priced payment tool for units of local government that offer electronic payment of bills. ePAY accepts credit cards, bank cards and electronic checks either online, at point of sale or by telephone. More than 800 local governments use ePAY, including cities, counties, libraries and park districts. Community colleges and universities also can benefit from ePAY. “The confidence shown in our program by Treasurer Frerichs will raise additional awareness in the community about the excellent customer service provided by The Chicago Lighthouse” said Lighthouse President and CEO Dr. Janet Szlyk.

Lighthouse customer care centers provide more than 600 permanent jobs for people who are blind, visually impaired, disabled and Veterans. The centers provide meaningful career opportunities for individuals facing barriers to employment.

Revenue generated from the customer care centers supplements other Lighthouse programs and services.

a justice system that treats you better if you’re rich and guilty than poor and innocent.”

Booker added as a college graduate, he grew up in a privileged town for 20 years in Newark, New Jersey. He said he could attests to the inequalities and policies that have failed concerning drug possessions in the U.S. criminal justice system.

“You don’t see kids coming home from frat parties being stopped and frisked or the enforcement of marijuana laws,” Booker said. “In fact, in so many privileged circles I have been blessed to be in, you hear people bragging about using pot and making jokes. But if you go to communities that are poor and with people of color, then clearly this isn’t a laughing matter.”

He added, “You will see that these are the communities where people are getting arrested at rates tragically higher than other communities.”

Booker explained that an ACLU study showed that out of eight million arrests, 88 percent of the people were arrested for possession of marijuana between 2001 through 2010.

“If you’re African American, there is no difference with you using or selling drugs than white

people,” he said. “But tragically, I have seen people tagged with charges of nonviolent drug usage for using marijuana in a nation where our lawmakers and our legislators are using drugs.”

If passed into law, the Marijuana Justice Act would immediately have a positive impact on the criminal justice system, on policing, on communities and even the economy, Booker said in a MoveOn.org press release.

“The bill would incentivize states to change their marijuana laws if those laws are shown to disproportionately affect low-income individuals and/or people of color,” Booker said. “The Marijuana Justice Act would be applied retroactively for those already serving time for marijuana-related offenses, providing for a judge’s review of marijuana sentences, which would reduce the prison population.”

To find out more information on the bill, you can listen to Booker’s Facebook Live at https://www.facebook.com/corybooker/ videos/10157111094132228/

community focus Serve Illinois Announces $17.5 Million For AmeriCorps Programs The Serve Illinois Commission on Volunteerism and Community Service (Serve Illinois) today announced $17.5 million in Corporation for National and Community Service federal grants to place 1,671 AmeriCorps Members in 39 programs to serve Illinois communities. This is an increase of $1.9 million over last year, allowing AmeriCorps Members to serve in 20 additional counties. These awards include $6.4 million in education awards that AmeriCorps Members can use to pay for college after their term of service. AmeriCorps programs will match these funds with an additional $15.9 million in local funding.

AmeriCorps Members dedicate up to one year to help communities meet unmet economic, education, health, public safety, disaster preparedness, veteran services, and environmental needs. Members may receive a modest living allowance, student loan deferment, health insurance, childcare, and professional development. Members who successfully complete their service receive an educational award of up to $5,815 to help pay for college, graduate school, vocational training, or to pay off student loans.

“This is the largest AmeriCorps award that Illinois has seen in the 24 year history of the program,” said Serve Illinois Executive Director Scott McFarland. “Last year, AmeriCorps Illinois Connect with the Citizen at

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served nearly 300,000 Illinoisans, including more than 180,000 disadvantaged youth; nearly 40,000 veterans, active military, and military family members; and more than 13,000 people impacted by disasters.”

These federal grants will be used for services in Illinois, including tutoring and mentoring at-risk youth, preparing communities to respond effectively to emergencies, feeding those in need, providing legal support services, assisting incarcerated individuals re-enter into their communities, promoting environmental stewardship, supporting veterans, and improving youth and adult literacy. Serve Illinois, a part of the Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH), administers the AmeriCorps programs in Illinois.

“The growth of this program in Illinois is a testament to the hard work our AmeriCorps Members perform each day in their communities throughout Illinois,” said Scott McFarland. “When you see the AmeriCorps “A”, you know things are getting done.”

Since 1994, 39,000 people have served 55 million hours in Illinois through AmeriCorps. Those hours equal more than $1.4 billion in community impact. AmeriCorps Members have also earned $131.7 million in education awards.

Serve Illinois is a 40 member (25 voting and 15 non-voting), bipartisan commission appointed by the Governor and administered by IDPH. Its mission is to improve Illinois communities by enhancing traditional volunteer activities and supporting national service programs. Serve Illinois supports local community-based efforts to enhance volunteer opportunities and the administration of Illinois’ AmeriCorps program. For more information on the Serve Illinois and AmeriCorps, visit www.Serve.

Illinois.gov.

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CITIZEN / Chicago Weekend / Week of August 16, 2017 / 5 4 / CITIZEN / Chicago Weekend / Week of August 16, 2017

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How Mobile Technology is Helping Small Businesses and Their Employees “Employees can now fill out their (StatePoint) If you run a small own paperwork online, upload necessary business, you know that there is documents, and make their own almost always work to be done. updates when things change. It makes However, much of your time may be onboarding and benefits administration spent on tasks that you didn’t foresee ridiculously easy and paperless. I never before you opened shop. Indeed, see the forms, but I can see when they up to 25 percent of a business have been completed,” says Kerins. He owner’s time can be consumed also quickly noticed that his employees by human resources and benefits appreciate more control over their administration, according to the personal information and the ability Small Business Administration. to access all of their HR and benefits Luckily for those who built a information in one place, including business to follow their passions, through their mobile phones. not to do paperwork, new mobile new mobile technology can help save employers’ time, make employees’ lives easier and attract great staff.

According to Jim Lundy, principal technology can help save employers’ analyst with Aragon Research, using time, make employees’ lives easier and mobile technology to run a business is not attract great staff. just a convenience, it’s becoming something of a necessity.

For example, when Michael Kerins, founder of Robust Wealth, “Mobile is now critical in the workplace, as this is how the a New Jersey-based provider of financial management software younger generations expect to work,” Lundy says, “Companies need and services, began offering health benefits to his staff, he didn’t to adapt or risk missing out on key talent.” anticipate the amount of time required to process paperwork and Other mobile apps offer employers and their staff answer questions from employees. opportunities to streamline project management, email marketing “Too much of my time was tied up filling out paperwork, campaigns and more. updating records and helping employees find information,” says “Mobile apps should not only help people access information, Kerins, who switched to using Zenefits, an online, all-in-one platform but allow them to take actions and move things forward,” Lundy that includes HR, benefits administration and payroll. added. “Over the next few years, we predict mobile devices One benefit Kerins quickly realized was time-savings, as will become the primary computing device for a significant employees had access to all of their HR and benefits information in percentage of workers.” one place -- online and through mobile apps.

3 Unexpected Things That Can Help Small Businesses Thrive strengthening the State Department and America’s international (StatePoint) With most Americans employed by small businesses, the assistance programs. It’s just that simple -- American investments in global success of these operations is crucial to drive the economy and grow the job development and diplomacy open new markets for our nation’s companies market. But there are some obvious and not so obvious factors that can help and create jobs right here at home,” said Liz Schrayer president and CEO small business owners and their employees thrive. of the U.S. Global Leadership Coalition, which recently issued a new report When most people think of critical issues for business success, exploring this issue, entitled “America’s Global Economic Leadership: A they gravitate to areas like improving marketing efforts or adopting Strategic Return on U.S. Investments.” new technologies. However, here are three surprising elements that can Each time the U.S. helps to expand access contribute to growing the bottom lines of small to a new market overseas, the USGLC points businesses in the U.S., according to market out, exports can soar, and America benefits -analysts. especially small and medium sized businesses, A Smaller Focus U.S. workers, and state and local economies.

Most small businesses think they need to And with millions of American jobs directly tied do lots of things well to succeed. A smaller focus to exports, it’s easy to see how strong economies may be more beneficial, experts say. The most abroad can directly affect livelihoods and successful small businesses and start-ups are businesses in the U.S. those that focus first on a single key performance Faster Internet Elsewhere indicator (KPI) before expanding their scope.

Most small businesses are familiar with It’s about identifying the key metric that is most their need for high speed Internet connectivity important (such as selling your main product to to efficiently tackle daily activities. But many one sector, adding subscribers, selling service may not realize that increased broadband plans, etc.).

Most small businesses are familiar with their penetration in other areas -- urban, suburban And once you have identified your metric, need for high speed Internet connectivity to and rural parts of America -- can also assist accurate measurement is critical. Quantify your efficiently tackle daily activities. But many may them since this will help their customers success in this key area and be laser focused on not realize that increased broadband penetration to transact. For example, according to a driving this one KPI. Once you succeed in this in other areas -- urban, suburban and rural parts recent report, the rural broadband industry crucial area, you can add additional KPIs in of America -- can also assist them since this will contributed $24.1 billion to the U.S. other areas to expand your business. help their customers to transact. economy in 2015, with 66 percent of that Going Global activity benefitting urban, rather than rural A staggering 95 percent of the world’s communities. consumers live outside America’s borders. So, When small business owners and employees contemplate the raising the standard of living in other countries and expanding their middle things they need to thrive, it’s important to consider both domestic and classes is crucial to growing the market for products made in America. international factors that drive U.S. sales and jobs, say experts.

“When it comes to boosting the American economy, never forget

Weekly

GUEST COLUMN 6 Car Insurance Discounts That May Save You Money

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By: Henry Benjamin, Allstate agency owner Car insurance discounts are no myth — they do exist. From car safety features to being a safe driver, here are six ways you may be able to cut down on car insurance costs.

Go for the multiple-policy discount.

The Insurance Information Institute (III) says many insurers offer multiple-policy discounts.

For example, you may qualify for a discount if you have homeowners insurance and car insurance with the same company. Ask your insurer about “bundling” your policies and whether it would help maximize your savings.

Be a safe driver.

Maintaining a driving record with no at-fault accidents or traffic violations may pay off where your insurance premiums are concerned, according to the National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC). In fact, the association says safe drivers pay lower car insurance rates overall. If you’re a student, keep your grades up.

Keeping up your GPA may help save money: The III says insurers frequently offer discounts for young drivers with good grades.

This doesn’t just apply to teenagers in high school. The NAIC says some insurers also offer discounts for full-time students up to age 25.

John Hooker, Judge John Steele ret. Ald Anthony Beale (10) MWRD Comm.Kari Steele, MWRD President, Ald Carrie Austin (34) Mariyana Spyropolous, Elzie Higgenbottom, Ald.Walter Burnett ( 27) Anna Valencia City Clerk, Ald Greg Mitchell (7)

WVON talk show host Maze Jackson MWRD Comm Kari Steele Jesse White, Secretary of State

AVALON PARK SUMMER PARK CONCLUDES WITH AWARDS CEREMONY

Ask about car safety features.

Is your car equipped to help keep you safe from harm? The III says many insurers offer discounts for certain safety features — for example, motorized seat belts or an anti-lock brake system (ABS). Install an anti-theft device.

If your car isn’t already equipped with an anti-theft device, consider the benefits of installing an alarm system or a stolen vehicle recovery transceiver. In addition to helping deter theft or vandalism, the NAIC says an antitheft device may help you qualify for a discount from some insurers.

Renew your policy early.

Don’t wait until your car insurance policy has expired to switch to a different insurer.

First off, it’s not a good idea because going without car insurance is against the law (most states require that all drivers have liability coverage). Second, some insurance companies may offer incentives for new customers who sign a new policy before their old policy expires.

If you’re looking to save money on car insurance, the discounts mentioned here may be a good place to start. You can contact me at 773-723-0400 for a quote or for an insurance review.

Disclaimer: “The following is a guest column, submitted to Citizen Newspapers. Citizen Newspapers is please to run selected guest columns to further educate our readers.

Citizen Newspapers provides these columns as a service to our communities. Citizen Newspapers does not endorse or recommend any services or products suggested in our guest columns, and urges all readers to research suggested products and make wise decisions.”

www.thechicagocitizen.com • 52 years of serving the Black community

For two months these kids participated in various events at the Avalon Park facilities in Chatham. The 8th Ward under the direction of Ald.Michelle Harris. Each child received a trophy.

Simone Cunningham shows up for her award after being hit by a car. On hand to honor her was grandmother Francine Gray and 8Th Ward Ald. Michelle Harris.

ATTORNEY MARIAN PERKINS TRANSITIONS TO CIRCUIT JUDGE FIFTH SUBCIRCUIT

Justice Charles E. Freeman administers the oath of office to Marian Perkins, as Judge, as her family looks on.

Atty, Larry Rogers Jr congratulates Marian Perkins on her appointment.

Judge Andrea Buford Cook County Clerk Dorothy Brown, Judge Marian Perkins and Judge Carl Boyd.

6 / CITIZEN / Chicago Weekend / Week of August 16, 2017

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> Profile > Inspirations > Bible verse

ACTIVIST PASTOR CALLS FOR CONGRESSIONAL HEARINGS ON “THE STATE OF VIOLENCE IN AMERICA” AND ISSUES A CALL FOR “CIVILITY” CHICAGO - Calling the weekend violence in Charlottesville, Virginia “disgraceful, un-American and a tipping point for civil discourse,” the Reverend Anthony Williams will urge the U.S. Congress to hold immediate hearings on violence.

According to Rev. Williams, “Our congressional leaders cannot afford to sit

back as spectators to this growing epidemic of intolerance, hatred, bigotry and violence. They must act now with a clear and determined call for civility.”

Rev. Williams, pastor of the racially diverse First Congregational Church of Berwyn, will issued his call and made other remarks during a news conference this past Tuesday.

THEME: HEALING

Jeremiah 17:14 - Heal me, O LORD, and I shall be healed; save me, and I shall be saved: for thou [art] my praise.

If you have a calendar item or news event that you would like to include in the Citizen’s church news section, please submit your information to

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You can also mail your information to: The Chicago Citizen Newspaper Inc., 8741 S. Greenwood Ave., Chicago,Illinois 60619, Attn: Church News

Inspirations

from Rev. Dr. Derrick B. Wells,

Senior Minister of Christ Universal Temple

UNLEASH YOUR DIVINE POTENTIAL I wonder if you agree with Albert Einstein’s assessment that insanity is doing the same thing over and over and expecting a different result. If you agree and you also take the appropriate corrective action, you may be one of those high-functioning people who strategically and intentionally releases the repetitive and unproductive in favor of your new opportunities for a new you. If this is you, know that you fall into a small percentage of folk. You may stop reading now and continue doing what you have been doing in order to grow and become better. God speed and let’s connect in the next issue of Chicago Citizen!

If this is not you, continue reading on.

There comes a time when things belonging to us, though incredibly familiar, no longer really fits us. Have you ever owned a pair of shoes that fit comfortably in one season of your life, but when attempting to wear these same shoes while in another season, they were just too tight? What was once comfortable had become uncomfortable, though not unbearable. So it is with the things we outgrow.

We can and do outgrow many things such as: environments, attitudes, habits, mindsets, emotional instabilities, addictions, toxic people, and the like. If there is something in your life that no longer has the ability to serve and support you, it may be time to let go of what may well be a repetitive-unproductive.

A second component to this recognition of release is that whenever we release something, we should actively work to backfill that space with something good, lest the thing we released come back. Jesus taught that when the unclean spirit is released out, it goes looking for a resting place. Refuse to give your past repetitive-unproductive a return-resting place.

It takes insight and courage to release that that no longer serves and supports you. It takes insight and courage to fill that empty space up with something good.

If you will make some modest changes in what you think, what you believe, and what you do, you can unleash the divine potential of the new you. If you elect to keep the same thinking, keep the same beliefs, and keep doing the same things, what you can expect to get is more of what you already have. You can also decide whether or not that is insane.

Address: 11901 S Ashland Ave, Chicago, IL 60643 Phone: (773) 568-2282 www.cutemple.org

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EVENT OF THE WEEK

Register for City Colleges of Chicago’s Fall 2017 Semester by August 21 Chicagoans can register now for Malcolm X College also introduced a the Fall 2017 semester at City Colleges new degree program: Physical Therapy Assistant (Associate in Applied Science). of Chicago (CCC). CCC is the largest community college system in Illinois. The In addition, Child Development programs across City Colleges have been registration deadline for the 16-week Fall revised to align with updated industry term is Monday, August 21, 2017, with credential requirements. classes beginning Monday, August 28.

In addition to certificate and CCC courses are offered during the associate degree programs, CCC also day, in the evening, on weekends, and also offers free Early College programs for online. It is now easier to apply, using high school students, as well as free CCC’s enhanced application page (www.

English as a Second Language (ESL) ccc.edu/apply). Visitors to www.ccc.edu/ and high school equivalency instruction apply will find step-by-step application through GED and, new this year, the instructions, whether they are interested in HiSET test. certificate and associate degree programs, City Colleges of Chicago now offers continuing education or free programs for high school students. students pursuing their high school For those unsure of their career goals equivalency a choice between taking or still deciding what to study, CCC’s online the GED or the HiSET high school “Student GPS” tool (Guided Pathways to equivalency test. The HiSET test has Success) is available via the new page and both a paper-based and computer version Chicagoans can register now for the Fall 2017 semester at City Colleges of Chicago (CCC). helps applicants learn about the career compared to the GED, which has only paths that are expected to have more than a computer-based version. The HiSET eligibility requirements. Chicago Star Scholarships 600,000 job openings in the Chicago region over the test is less expensive than the GED test; it costs $90 for provide recipients with free tuition and books as they next decade. the complete battery as opposed to $120 for the GED pursue an associate degree at City Colleges.

Through CCC’s College to Careers initiative, battery. Eligible City Colleges of Chicago students can Chicago Star Scholars are also eligible for each City College has been designated a “Center of get scholarships to help defray the cost of the tests. With scholarships and bachelor’s degree transfer Excellence” in one or more of these high-demand scholarships, the total cost of the tests to students is $50 opportunities offered by four-year colleges and industries: advanced manufacturing (Daley College), for the GED and $40 for the HiSET. universities in the Star Scholarship Partnership business and professional services (Harold Washington Free ESL and high school equivalency classes begin program. City Colleges of Chicago graduates who are College), construction (Dawson Technical Institute August 21, 2017. part of the STAR Scholarship program have received at Kennedy-King College), culinary and hospitality Credit classes (degree and certificate programs) for more than $1 million in scholarship offers from four(Washburne Culinary & Hospitality Institute at the 16-week Fall Semester begin Monday, August 28, year colleges and universities, along with financial, Kennedy-King College), healthcare (Malcolm X 2017. The 12-week session begins Monday, September academic and advising supports.

College), transportation, distribution and logistics By completing an associate degree at City Colleges, 25 (the registration deadline for the 12-week session is (Olive-Harvey College), education, human and natural September 18). For more information, visit www.ccc.edu students can save tens of thousands of dollars when sciences (Truman College), and information technology they transfer to a bachelor’s degree program at a fouror call 773-COLLEGE. (Wright College).

The seven City Colleges of Chicago are: year college or university. City Colleges has more than City Colleges has developed partnerships with Harold Washington College – 30 E. Lake St. 60 transfer partnerships with four-year colleges and more than 200 corporate and university partners to Harry S Truman College – 1145 W. Wilson Ave. universities, helping students transition to bachelor’s revamp its curriculum and facilities in these fields, and Kennedy-King College – 6301 S. Halsted St. degree programs nationwide. more than 4,000 students and alumni have secured a Malcolm X College – 1900 W. Jackson Blvd.

Some of the newer degree and certificate programs job or internship.

Olive-Harvey College – 10001 S. Woodlawn Ave. include three at Harold Washington College: Banking Chicago Star Scholarships are available to Richard J. Daley College – 7500 S. Pulaski Rd. (Basic Certificate), Paralegal (Associate in Applied graduates of Chicago Public Schools who meet Wilbur Wright College – 4300 N. Narragansett Ave Science) and Human Resources (Basic Certificate).

Fall Registration at SSC Still in Progress SOUTH HOLLAND, IL–Open Registration for the Fall 2017 Semester at South Suburban College (SSC) is in progress. The Admissions/ Registration areas are open Mondays through Thursdays 8:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m. and Fridays 8:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. For your convenience, Registration Services will also be open Saturday, August 19 from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., including

Admissions, Registration, Records, Student Life, Business and Accounting, Financial Aid, AAC, Counseling and Testing.

Apply online at www.ssc.edu to begin the enrollment process. New students will receive an SSC email account and a “My SSC” Username & Password via email which will allow access to the online schedule and class registration. The “My SSC” portal also allows students 24-hour access during college closed periods.

Fall classes begin Monday, August 21 at the college’s Main Campus and Oak Forest Center. We

invite the public to come and register so that they can see for themselves the opportunities that await with lower tuition that could save hundreds, even thousands of dollars versus four-year university costs.

Contact the Office of Admissions at (708) 210-5718 for enrollment information. SSC’s Main Campus is located at 15800 South State Street, South Holland, Illinois. The Oak Forest Center is located at 16333 South Kilbourn Avenue, Oak Forest, Illinois. Para Información En Español Llame: (708) 210-5740.

www.thechicagocitizen.com • 52 years of serving the Black community

CITIZEN / Chicago Weekend / Week of August 16, 2017 / 9

Doctor’s Orders: How to Protect Your Skin this Summer (StatePoint) The summer can really take a toll on skin, when more of it is exposed to sun, bugs and poisonous plants.

To keep skin cool, comfortable and irritation-free no matter what conditions you encounter, use these tips from NYC-based dermatologist, Dr. Angela Lamb of Mt. Sinai hospital.

Stay Hydrated Proper hydration is crucial when you’re busy and active outdoors. It’s also essential for skin health. So be sure to drink plenty of water and eat hydrating fruits and vegetables.

Treat the Itch The itch, hives, rash, redness and irritation associated with insect bites, poison ivy, oak and sumac, and sunburns can be agonizing.

However, it’s important not to scratch the affected area and create an open wound susceptible to infection, even though it does provide temporary relief.

Dr. Lamb suggests treating discomfort right away with a dermatologist-recommended solution that stops the itch and heals the skin.

One easy to apply steroid-free treatment to consider is The Itch Eraser, which contains soothing aloe, vitamin E and tea tree oil to calm, nourish and moisturize the skin while reducing redness and inflammation. Available as a gel, spray or cream, it can be used to treat every kind

of skin itch, (formulas vary). Find a retailer near you at TheItchEraser.com.

Dress for Success Whether it’s your blanket on the beach or your sundress, fabrics should be well-chosen for the warm weather. For maximum comfort, stick with cotton, linen and other breathable choices.

Working out? Look for moisture wicking materials that will dry quickly. Also, be sure to protect your scalp from sunburn with a widebrimmed hat.

Keep it Cool Hot water is never great for skin, but after too much sun exposure, it can be particularly irritating. Luckily, it’s easy to turn down the heat on your shower in summer. Use the hot weather as an opportunity to give skin a break and refresh with cooler water in the shower or bath.

Use Common Sense Avoid burns and itches to begin with by applying plenty of sunscreen and bug spray, and by taking precautions in wooded areas to avoid poison ivy, oak and sumac. While preparation may not always be top of mind when you’re headed outdoors for a day of fun and adventure, being sidelined by these issues is even more of a downer.

Additional tips on how to protect and treat your skin this summer can be found at TheItchEraser.com.

For a happier summer, treat your skin right from head to toe.

Experts share tips on keeping your lips healthy and hydrated

There is no reason to suffer through chapped, cracked lips. Great habits, such as applying a moisturizing lip balm or lip balm that contains SPF, can help you keep your lips healthy and moisturized.

(StatePoint) Lips can be especially susceptible to the elements, leaving them dry and chapped. To keep your pucker healthy and hydrated, consider the following tips from the makers of Carmex lip balms, and Dr. Neil Sadick, M.D., a New York City-based dermatologist.

• Lower humidity can deplete and dehydrate lips. While it can be tempting to lick one’s lips, unfortunately, this approach will only make the problem worse -- as saliva draws moisture out of the lips as it evaporates. Instead, keep lips hydrated from the inside out by drinking plenty of water.

• Use moisturizing lip balms with ingredients that will seal in moisture and stay on your lips. If you are not allergic to sunscreen, use a product with SPF 15 or higher, such as the Carmex Lip Balm Stick, to protect from the sun -- not just on sunny days, but every day. Make a habit of applying

lip balm three to four times daily, ensuring that one application is before bedtime.

• Avoid high gloss lipsticks with little-tono color. They can be potentially harmful to lips because they can attract UV rays. Avoid these shades entirely or try a triple-layer approach for added protection: first apply a lip balm with SPF, followed by a colored lipstick, then finish it off with some shine.

• Cover your face, especially on windy days.

Use a scarf to cover your lips when the wind starts blowing.

• When indoors, consider using a humidifier in dry environments to help moisturize your skin and lips.

More healthy lip tips can be found at mycarmex.com.

www.thechicagocitizen.com • 52 years of serving the Black community

CITIZEN / Chicago Weekend / Week of August 16, 2017 / 11

entertainment

1

Tribute paid to the Jacksons and more at Black Music Honors’ Central City Productions will pay tribute to The Jacksons, Donnie McClurkin, Slick Rick, Guy, Oleta Adams and Jody Watley, at Black Music Honors. The live television special taping will take place on Friday, August 18, 2017 at the Tennessee Performing Arts Center (TPAC) in Nashville, TN. The Jacksons are set to receive the Lifetime Achievement in Music Award, Grammy® Award-winner Donnie McClurkin will receive the Gospel Music Icon Award; the R&B group Guy, creators of the New Jack Swing sound, will be given the R&B Soul Music Icon Award; Grammy® nominated-singer Oleta Adams is receiving the Legends Award, Grammy® Awardwinner Jody Watley will be recognized with the Crossover Music Icon Award and Grammy® nominated rapper Slick Rick will be presented with the Hip Hop/Rap Music Icon Award.

The Black Music Honors will include a special performance by The Jacksons. SWV,

Karen Clark Sheard, Avery Sunshine, Dave Hollister, Jonathan Butler, Kid ‘N Play, Latrice Crawford, Leela James, Marvin Winans, Da Brat, and Sevyn Streeter are also slated to perform.

CCP honors legendary African American artists who have made significant musical contributions to African American culture and American music worldwide. Television and radio personality Rickey Smiley, and singer, actress LeToya Luckett, will co-host the show set to air on broadcast syndication, Sept. 2-30, 2017 and on Bounce TV, October 10.

Proceeds from tickets sales will benefit the National Museum of African American Music, scheduled to open in Nashville, TN, 2019.

The Tennessee Performing Arts Center (TPAC), 505 Deaderick St., Nashville. Doors open at 6 p.m. with the show taping at 7 p.m. Tickets can be purchased at https://patron.tpac.org/ events/detail/black-music-honors-2017-tpac

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The Legendary Jacksons have been tapped to receive the Lifetime Achievement Award And perform at The ‘Black Music Honors’ Television Special.

Wizkid, Taylor Bennett and Heatwave join Wyclef Jean for 2017 African Festival of the Arts this Labor Day Tickets now available for September 1-4 celebration of African arts and culture

(CHICAGO) – Outstanding national and international talent continues to sign on for the 2017 African Festival of the Arts (AFA) Labor Day weekend, September 1–4. Confirmed to join lyricist, singer, musician, producer, poet, and songwriter, Wyclef Jean, as part of a power-packed entertainment lineup are Nigeria’s first son of Afrobeats Wizkid; independent artist and younger brother of Chance the Rapper, Taylor Bennett and one of the preeminent bands of funk, boogie and the disco era, Heatwave.

The highly-anticipated event—one of the largest and longest-running festivals in the Midwest focused on African art and culture—each year draws tens of thousands of people—locally, nationally and internationally—to its long-standing home in Washington Park.

On opening night, Friday, Sept. 1, Taylor Bennett and Wizkid take to the Main Stage in what is lining up to be one of the hottest openings in the Festival’s history. Nigerian singer/songwriter Ayodeji Ibrahim Balogun, aka Wizkid, began his career in music when he was just 11 years old. Joining him is Taylor, the younger brother of Chance the Rapper, who is changing the game with his lyrical style, flow and heart-pounding live shows. Bennett’s rise has been meteoric, selling out shows all over Chicago. He was recently featured on the cover of the Chicago Reader as “The next up in Chicago.”

Hosting the event will be Sheila O, host of Afrozons on Power 92, the first Afrobeat show on a major FM US dial. Afrozons is where Afrobeats meets hip hop and airs Sunday from 10 p.m. to midnight.

Completely cosmopolitan with international grooves to spare, Heatwave emerged as one of the disco era’s funkiest dance groups. The band, while formed in Germany, signed to the Epic label and began formulating their first album in fall 1976. Among their string of award-winning hits are, “Ain’t No Half Steppin,” “Super Soul Sister,” and 1976’s disco anthem, “Boogie Nights.”

The theme of this year’s festival is Respect, and is in keeping with the city of Chicago’s declaration of 2017 as “The Year of Public Art,” which also includes the 50th anniversary of the “Wall of Respect.”

This year’s Grand BaBa is Rev. Jeremiah Wright Jr., pastor emeritus of Trinity United Church of Christ, and the Grand YeYe is retired assistant principal Linda Murray. Both will be recognized at the AFA Gala on Aug. 18 at the DuSable Museum. Entertainment for the Gala will be provided by singer-

CLASSIFIEDS Classified

Weekly

10 / CITIZEN / Chicago Weekend / Week of August 16, 2017

songwriter Regina Belle. For information on tickets, call 773.955.ARTS. Operated by Africa House International (AIH), a 501©3 educational organization, the AFA is a four-day immersion into African culture and heritage as Chicago’s historic Washington Park is transformed into an authentic African village. Over 300 vendors and artisans will present artifacts, textiles, traditional crafts, and museum-quality art. Enjoy the African-influenced food, music and dance traditions during an entertainment-rich, family-focused celebration unlike any other in the Midwest.

The Festival boasts five distinct areas each representing a center of culture and commerce on the African Continent: Nubia (fine arts); Kush (wearable arts); Songhay

(African arts & crafts, collectibles and natural products); Timbuktu (African fabric and fashions); and Bank of the Nile (food court).

There will be pavilions highlighting South African wines, health & wellness and fine arts. Pavilions include: Spiritual Pavilion; Quilting Pavilion; David Durojaiye Olupitan African Heritage Pavilion; Author & Book Pavilion; Drum Village; Dr. Nurudeen Olowopopo Health & Wellness Pavilion; and the Bernice Gardner Children’s & Family Pavilion.

Master African drummer, Olu Shakoor, conductor of the African Drum Village, specializes in both traditional and contemporary styles of African Drumming and excels in the Djum-Djum and Djembe Drum.

For those wanting to sample the tastes of Africa, you can dine on dishes in the tradition of Nigeria, Senegal and the Caribbean, as well as Cajun and Southern soul. But, the real stars of the Festival are the fine arts and the artists who make them—be they painters, sculptors, jewelers, or wood carvers.

Founded by Liberian-born business leader Patrick S. K. Woodtor, the African Festival of the Arts has become a national destination point for those seeking to immerse themselves in the African culture.

Woodtor founded the African Festival of the Arts as an outgrowth of his art shop, Windows to Africa, and he, along with his board of directors, have grown the event into a Labor Day staple. In all these ways, the Festival gives attendees a glimpse of Africa without the need for plane tickets and for less than the cost of applying for a passport.

Sponsors of the 2017 African Festival of the Arts include: Chicago Park District, ComEd, Next Level Health, Argo, Allison Jordan Events and PNC Bank. Media partners include: Comcast, NBC Universal, WVON, Bronzecomm, the Chicago Citizen and Chicago Crusader newspapers, AfroZons, and Senior Talk with Clara Hubbard.

Tickets for all shows are included in the price of admission to the Festival, and may be purchased now beginning at $15. There are discounts for seniors, as well as four-day and VIP passes. Children under five are free.

Learn more by visiting www.aihusa.org and clicking on African Festival.

You can also go to Twitter: @AfricanFestChi Facebook: AfricanFestivaloftheArts and Instagram: @africanfestivalchicago

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THEME: STATE CAPITALS ACROSS 1. Hindu sage or a tea brand 6. Plant production 9. Big first for a baby 13. *#2 Down native 14. Mutt 15. Doggy 16. Newbery Medal, e.g.

17. Back then 18. Alternative spelling of although 19. *The Great Lake State capital 21. *Capital named after 4th president 23. Color quality 24. Type of soda pop 25. British news broadcaster 28. Maître d’s list 30. Occupied oneself 35. Pearl Harbor island 37. Popular movie candy 39. Little one 40. Bodily disorders 41. *No witches in this state’s capital 43. Capital on the Dnieper 44. Dipping tobacco brand 46. Love­____ relationship 47. Main Web page 48. Attractive to look at 50. Your majesty 52. Sea to a Spaniard 53. Duds 55. Filling station filler 57. *Capital named for Sir Walter 61. *State with the smallest capital by population 65. 007, e.g.

66. Keats’ poem 68. Metric unit of capacity 69. Set in motion 70. Break a commandment 71. Ann B. Davis on “The Brady Bunch” 72. Sound warning 73. “Ideas worth spreading” online talk 74. Bothersome DOWN 1. Unit of money in Iran 2. *Des Moines state 3. Ugly Duckling, eventually 4. Like Siberian winters 5. In on periodic table 6. Slang for heroin 7. Leo mo.

8. Movie trailer, e.g.

9. More than one solo 10. Tater pieces 11. Audio bounce­back 12. Sound unit 15. Exotic furniture wood

20. Must­haves 22. Priestly garb 24. Oldsmobile model 25. *The Gem State capital 26. Uncooperative, like a mule 27. Actress Sevigny 29. Biblical captain 31. Punjabi believer 32. “Kick the bucket,” e.g.

33. a.k.a. dropsy 34. *Founded by William Penn 36. Sky defender 38. Search for Extraterrestrial Intelligence, acr.

42. Get together, like AOL and Time Warner 45. Lute player 49. Yule treat 51. Same as earflap 54. White­sheeted apparition 56. Upside down frown 57. Poison ivy symptom

58. Type of sax 59. Pinocchio, e.g.

60. Garner wages 61. Offer ware 62. Elevator inventor 63. Adam’s apple spot 64. 3­point shot 67. *Motto heard in Concord: “Live Free or ____”

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