Hyde Park Citizen 3-23-2022

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HYDE PARK

WEEKLY

BUSINESS SCAMS CAN HAPPEN TO ANYONE. HERE ARE THE MOST COMMON ONES AND HOW TO PROTECT YOURSELF

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WEEK OF March 23, 2022

Trianon Lofts, whi Woodlawn in ye ch opened in 2018, was the first primarily ars. PHOTOS PROV ne ID ED BY POAH

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P4 FREE | VOL 33 | ISSUE 18

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STUDY FINDS RESIDENT INPUT

IS KEY TO WOODLAWN’S REDEVELOPMENT A Preservation of Affordable Housing (POAH) study about the redevelopment of Woodlawn has found that input from the residents was key to redeveloping the community and ensuring residents weren’t displaced when redevelopment occurred.

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Yummy Extensions + KOSA Professionals Celebrates International Women’s Day P5

New Synergy For Black World Progress

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Otis Redding Foundation Announces New Center for the Arts & Amphitheater P8

2 briefly COLLINS RECOGNIZED FOR YEARS OF WORK IMPROVING URBAN NEIGHBORHOODS Neighborhood Housing Services of Chicago has named State Senator Jacqueline Y. Collins (D-Chicago) as its recipient of the 2022 Gale Cincotta Community Visionary Award for her many years of work improving urban neighborhoods.

NHS selected Collins for the award due to her recent success in reining in predatory lenders in lower-income communities, as well as her efforts to combat racial biases in mortgage lending.

“The unfortunate truth is that housing insecurity is most common in lower-income majority Black and Brown neighborhoods that were disadvantaged by decades of disinvestment and racist housing policies,” Collins said. “I’m proud that I’ve been able to help pass laws and put pressure on city and state leaders to turn these neighborhoods back into true communities that people are proud to call home.”

No sitting Illinois legislator has done more than Collins to help keep families in good homes. When the Great Recession threatened thousands of families with foreclosure and eviction, she took action to set in place new programs and protections for homeowners and renters alike.

She passed laws that created counseling programs for families in danger of foreclosure, requiring banks and other financial institutions that offer mortgages to take part in a national licensing system, and allowing not-forprofits to provide assistance to families in need.

NHS established the Gale Cincotta Community Visionary Award to recognize outstanding leadership in the effort to rebuild urban neighborhoods. Gale Cincotta was a prominent community activist who fought for neighborhoods and community groups and worked to eliminate “redlining” and discriminatory practices against low-income and minority communities.

Avelo Airlines Announces New Nonstop ServiceFrom Chicago Midway to Southern Connecticut Avelo Airlines today announced it will begin serving the Windy City with nonstop service to Southern Connecticut from Chicago Midway International Airport (MDW). The flight offers Chicago a more convenient and affordable gateway to the New England and New York regions. With the addition of MDW, Chicago becomes Avelo’s first Midwestern U.S. destination. Introductory one-way fares between MDW and Connecticut’s most convenient airport — Tweed-New Haven Airport (HVN) — starting at $69* are available at AveloAir.com.

HARPER PASSES LEGISLATION TO BACK MINORITY FARMERS SPRINGFIELD, Ill. – To further support minority farmers, state Rep. Sonya Harper, D-Chicago, passed legislation that would create a group to propose solutions to the adversities faced by minority farmers.

“The inequities faced by minority farmers affect the food systems, health and economy of vulnerable communities,” said Harper. “This bill will help address adversities faced by farmers from minority communities, and therefore address the negative outcomes these adversities create.”

House Bill 5201 will establish the Agriculture Equity Commission to increase outreach to socially disadvantaged farmers, study the industry and provide recommendations concerning equity for farmers from minority communities. The commission will include academics, policy experts and legislators and will reflect the representation of socially disadvantaged communities.

“Farming has always played an integral role in Illinois’ economy and culture. The Agriculture Equity Commission is an important first step in ensuring this industry is open for everyone to partake and succeed in,” said Harper. “I thank my colleagues on both sides of the aisle for supporting this bill and for supporting minority farmers across the state.”

House Bill 5201 passed the House with bipartisan support, and now heads to the Senate for consideration.

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Study finds resident input key to Woodlawn’s redevelopment Continued from page 1 to influence the process by using their resources and power to shape communiPOAH wanted to know ties. if the work they had been “In the case of Wooddoing made a difference, lawn, we’ve seen Chicago how it could improve and Housing Department how that work could be used Commissioner Marissa as a case study and replicated Novara, along with leaders in other parts of the country. of large institutions like the The redevelopment and reviUniversity of Chicago, they talization of Woodlawn has needed to show up in the been the largest undertaking neighborhood in a certain for the Boston-headquartered way, in order for people to organization whose aim is to want to engage and trust create, preserve and sustain them in the creation of a affordable housing. new Woodlawn ordinance Jewel opened in 2019 and was the first new grocery store to open in the POAH’s first developthat really focuses on equitament in Chicago was Wood- community in 50 years. ble development,” Khare said. lawn Park in 2011. Then, in Khare points out that the majority Black neighborhoods 2015, POAH opened the Woodlawn Resource Center. POAH are not locations where private and public investment are built the Woodlawn Station at 63rd and Cottage Grove Avedirected and there has been an ongoing reality of redlining, nue. In 2019, Jewel-Osco opened on 60th and Cottage Grove discrimination or bias that public and private funders have Avenue. against majority Black neighborhoods. Khare believes there Amy Khare was part of the research team invited by should be more attention given to the financing sources and POAH to do the study. The study was launched at the same time COVID-19 hit. It took about two years to complete. Khare the ways those sources are used to leverage additional funds to bring more than $400 million to Woodlawn. But, Khare added, acknowledges the start of the redevelopment of Woodlawn Woodlawan can be looked as a case study that can be replibegan with tenants and tenant’s rights activist for residents of cated across the country, to see how it was done without the Grove Parc Plaza. POAH took ownership of the development radical displacement of Black households. and created an opportunity for new development. Khare and William Eager is the senior vice president of real estate the research team were interested in the ways federal funding and development, Midwest region for POAH. Eager believes is deployed in cities to reach equitable development goals, as it is important for developers and planners to listen to and well as benefit the most marginalized populations in the city. partner with residents in decision making because the comIn Grove Parc’s case, those populations were majority Black munity belongs to the residents. It is insensitive and presumpfamilies, most of whom had children. tuous for developers and planners to impose a vision on the Khare described Woodlawn as a well-organized neighborpeople whose community it is. He added, bridge building is hood with people who have a lot of different perspectives. One of the key findings was the need for continual trust building for essential for success, as well as letting community members know their concerns are being listened to. partners who have power, such as developers and policy mak“I think Woodlawn has an opportunity to show how a ers, and building that trust and becoming trustworthy among community can grow economically without doing so at the community residents. Over time, earning that trust and sustainexpense of its lowest-income residents … I think the right ing that trust, would result in residents wanting to participate players are around the table at the right time … There is a in community planning that leads to better outcomes for those very public debate right now about the need to preserve existresidents. ing affordable housing and creating new affordable housing, Another key finding was that money is not enough. In addition to public and private financing for community redevel- and I don’t think those voices can be ignored going forward,” opment efforts, it is necessary for people in leadership positions Eager said.

BY TIA CAROL JONES

Rich Township Wrestler Nasir Bailey Becomes 3-time State Champ On Saturday, Feb. 19, Rich Township High School District 227 Nasir Bailey became a 3-time state champion. He won the 132-pound 3A state finals match, 6-2 against Will Baysingar from Mt. Prospect High School. Nasir ended the season with a perfect 42-0 record.

This monumental accomplishment marks the first state championship for RTHS since the district’s consolidation in 2020. Along with Nasir’s state championship this year, he was also awarded the Tony Ramos, 3A Most Dominant Wrestler Award. This is the inaugural year for this award.

One word expresses the season that Nasir Bailey had this year, “Astonishing,” said Head Coach Alex Pell. Pell also stated, “I am extremely proud of the way he not only wrestles but in the type of young man he is. The best part, he is only a junior.

I’m excited to get another year to work with a special talent like Nasir.”

Nasir plans to continue his academic and athletic career at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill once he graduates. He will be joining his two brothers, who are also wrestling at the university.

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Hyde Park | Week of March 23, 2022

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NEWS

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SIU Carbondale and City Colleges of Chicago to Strengthen Access for Transfer Students Southern Illinois University Carbondale (SIU) is partnering with City Colleges of Chicago (CCC) to better support students and increase access to higher learning. Saluki Step Ahead gives City Colleges of Chicago graduates who earn an associate degree automatic admission to SIU’s online accounting, business and administration, criminology and criminal justice, psychology, health care management and radiologic sciences programs.

Students in the program pay the community college rate for their first two years. In the third and fourth years, they receive an annual $4,000 scholarship. The goal is to allow students to earn their degrees for $25,000 or less. Students must maintain a 2.0 GPA to enter the program and remain eligible. City Colleges is the 11th participating institution in Saluki Step Ahead.

“We are excited to have City Colleges of Chicago join Saluki Step Ahead and bring the SIU Carbondale experience to place-bound students,” Chancellor Austin A. Lane said. “This agreement, along with other partnerships with City Colleges, will provide more options for students, an important part of our strategic plan, Imagine 2030.”

“City Colleges of Chicago strives for equity and inclusion.

With this newest agreement, we are removing obstacles and

providing City Colleges students with a clear pathway to a bachelor’s degree,” said Juan Salgado, Chancellor of City Colleges of Chicago.

City Colleges of Chicago is a system of seven community colleges and five satellite sites that provide learning opportunities for residents of the Chicago area. Programs range from twoyear associate degrees to several weeks-long occupational certificates, free courses for the GED and free English as a second language (ESL) courses. City Colleges of Chicago’s vision is to be recognized as the city’s most accessible higher education engine of socioeconomic mobility and racial equity—empowering all Chicagoans to take part in building a stronger and more just city.

Southern Illinois University Carbondale is a doctoral research university, with several colleges, a School of Law and a School of Medicine. With 200-plus majors, minors and specializations, the university offers unique opportunities, including undergraduate research often reserved for graduate students elsewhere, and it is committed to access and student success. The beautiful campus includes a lake, a forest, university-owned farms and world-class facilities.

AFRICAN AMERICANS DISTRUST SOCIAL MEDIA AS SOURCE FOR COVID-19 VACCINE INFORMATION, DESPITE WIDESPREAD USE DURHAM, N.C., PRNewswire -- A new nationwide questionnaire reveals that a majority of African American adults believe that social media is the No. 1 source of misinformation about COVID-19 vaccines, and that false information intentionally targets the Black community.

The insights, released today by The Center for Black Health & Equity (The Center), a national nonprofit organization that facilitates public health programs and services to benefit communities and people of African descent, reviewed responses by 791 African American adults between the ages of 18 and 54, and discovered: The top five most-frequented sources for COVID-19 vaccine information are: the news (48 percent), internet (43 percent), social media (39 percent), family and friends (35 percent) and doctors (35 percent).

When it comes to feeling confident that they are getting accurate information about the COVID-19 vaccine, 33 percent of the African Americans questioned say they completely trust their doctors to provide the information, and 18 percent completely PRNewsFoto trust their family and friends. Social media ranked last of the choices, with only 6 percent of participants saying they trust online platforms completely to provide accurate information.

The top three sources believed to be primarily responsible for sharing misinformation about the COVID-19 vaccine targeted to the Black community are: social media (27 percent), the news (25 percent) and internet (15 percent).

Nearly seven-out-of-ten (69 percent) believe that targeting all Americans with misinformation about the COVID-19 vaccine is somewhat to very intentional.

60 percent admitted they have shared information they learned on social media with family and friends, and about a third (35 percent) reshared it on their own social media platforms.

“This practice of receiving and sharing misinformation amplifies health disparities and harms the Black community, which is already dying from COVID-19 at disproportionate rates,” said

Delmonte Jefferson, executive director for The Center. “Truth Check aims to correct this contagious spread of inaccurate and false narratives.”

The Center has launched TheTruthCheck.org, an online resource to provide African Americans with social media literacy and fact-checking skills needed to avoid the influence of misinformation regarding the COVID-19 vaccine. To learn more about the campaign and how to spot misinformation on social media, visit TheTruthCheck.org.

Funding for the initiative was made possible through a subaward from the CDC Foundation and is part of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) financial assistance award totaling $25,660,048 with 100 percent funding from CDC/HHS. The contents are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily represent the official views of, nor an endorsement by, CDC/HHS or the U.S. Government.

The Center for Black Health & Equity (formerly NAATPN, Inc.) is a national nonprofit organization that facilitates public health programs and services that benefit communities and people of African descent. The Center is committed to addressing social, political and economic injustices that have marginalized communities and contributed to current health disparities. The Center provides a level of expert comment, research and education that has resulted in cities and institutions adopting smoke-free policies and flavor restrictions. Currently, the organization applies its proven framework for policy and environmental change to work in HIV/AIDS, cancer, heart, diabetes, COVID-19 and other health disparities. *Atlanta-based V&L Research and Consulting, Inc. conducted a national questionnaire between Dec. 14 - 20, 2021.

The online questionnaire, offering multiple choice answers, was conducted among a national sample of 791 African Americans, 59 percent Black females and 41 percent Black males. Credibility interval of +/- 3.48%.

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POLITICAL AFFAIRS

FOSTER INTRODUCES DASHBOARD ACT

Congressman Bill Foster (D-IL) introduced the Designing Accounting Safeguards to Help Broaden Oversight And Regulations on Data (DASHBOARD) Act, legislation that would require data harvesting companies such as social media platforms to tell consumers and financial regulators exactly what data they are collecting from customers and how it is being leveraged by the platform for profit.

The DASHBOARD Act will: Require commercial data operators (defined as services with over 100 million monthly active users) to disclose types of data collected as well as regularly provide their users with an assessment of the value of that data.

Require commercial data operators to file an annual report on the aggregate value of user data they’ve collected, as well as contracts with third parties involving data collection.

Require commercial data operators to allow users to delete all, or individual fields, of data collected – and disclose to users all the ways in which their data is being used, including any uses not directly related to the online service for which the data was originally collected.

Empower the SEC to develop methodologies for calculating data value, while encouraging the agency to facilitate flexibility to enable businesses to adopt methodologies that reflect the different uses, sectors, and business models.

“For far too long, social media companies have been telling consumers that their platforms are ‘free’ to use, when that’s not the full story,” Foster said. “Consumers – often unknowingly – pay with their unique data, which the companies collect and sell to third parties for things like targeted ads. I’m proud to introduce this legislation to increase the transparency of the data collected by these platforms, which would require these companies to tell consumers how much their data is worth and who it’s being shared with.”

COLLINS RESPONDS TO FORMER COOK COUNTY JUDGE ARREST FOR HUMAN TRAFFICKING Illinois State Senator Jacqueline Collins (D-Chicago) responds to the Florida arrest of former Cook County Judge Daniel Peters, the subject of a large human trafficking investigation.

His arrest Friday was one of over 100 during a six-day undercover operation focused on trafficking, prostitution and child predators.

“As this arrest proves, human trafficking is a crime against humanity hiding in plain sight,” Collins said. “Being a woman should not subject any individual to the risk of exploitation, harm or injury.”

Senator Collins sponsored legislation creating the Illinois Human Trafficking Task Force because human trafficking is a problem that affects residents across not only Illinois but all of the United States.

“We must continue to protect and support our vulnerable populations through proper training, evaluation and counseling,” Collins said. “The state and our law enforcement should provide a safe and encouraging environment for women and girls everywhere.“ The growing number of missing women and girls, especially Black women and girls such as Elise Malary, an Evanston resident missing for more than two days, presents a serious problem in the state.

SIMMONS TOURS BLACK-OWNED BUSINESS WITH GOVERNOR PRITZKER State Senator Mike Simmons (D-Chicago) welcomed Governor JB Pritzker to the 7th district last week where they toured Good to Go, a restaurant in Evanston specializing in Jamaican cuisine.

“It was an honor showing Governor Pritzker one of the best restaurants in my community,” Simmons said. “We are proud to have one of the most diverse communities in Illinois and in the nation, where people from all around the world can prosper and share their rich culture through food and conversation. I am especially proud and appreciative that Governor Pritzker takes the time to visit and show genuine appreciation for all that these small businesses add to our community.”

Good to Go is owned by Tony and Lenice Levy. Lenice Levy recently received the businessperson of the year award from the Evanston Chamber of Commerce in February.

“As the first Black senator for the 7th District, I am especially proud of how many Black-owned small businesses we have across the district, and am especially proud that many are owned by Black women. I will continue to use my platform to lift

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Scams Can Happen to Anyone. Here Are the Most Common Ones and How to Protect Yourself Chances are you know someone who has been a victim of fraud or scam. As a result of the pandemic, fraudsters are finding new ways to find victims. The good news is that there are simple ways for consumers to stay safe and fight back.

In a recent Chase survey of 2,000 consumers, 84% of survey respondents agreed that scams and scammers have become more sophisticated in recent years.

To spot fraud, it’s important to learn more about the most widespread scams, how to prevent them and what to do if you think you may be a victim.

How common are fraud and scams?

Fraud cases are unfortunately becoming more prevalent, and more sophisticated. In fact, the FTC revealed that 3.5 million people reported being a victim of fraud or identity theft in 2020, an increase of more than 1.5 million from the previous year. For Black communities, the problem is even worse with nearly half (40%) of Black adults being targeted by of online scams and fraud, according to AARP. What kind of scams exist that we should be aware of and know how to stop them?

While new scams are always popping up, there are several common approaches that keep resurfacing.

Some of the more common scams we’ve helped our customers fight against may not always seem so obvious.

What shocks many of our customers is how scam artists are willing to impersonate familiar faces, whether that be close relatives or community officials, and also trick you by using your own smart phone against you. So next time you receive a text message or email on your phone, think twice before you engage.

For example: Fake bank fraud specialist What they look like: Consumers receive a fraud alert via text message that appears to come from their bank. The message asks them to validate whether they made a certain purchase or sent a certain amount of money. After saying “no,” the recipient gets a call from someone claiming to be from their bank’s fraud team. The phone number may even appear to be a real phone number from your bank.

They’ll ask for the customer’s banking username, password or a one-time passcode. Alternatively, they’ll sometimes ask the customer to send money to themselves or a third party to “stop” the fraud or to get their money back. Once the scammer has gained access to a person’s account or convinced them to send money, they usually stop contact and the victim’s money is gone.

How to stop them: Unfortunately, scammers target consumers from many banks and they are very good at disguising themselves by “spoofing” or making their phone number appear legitimate. Consumers should never share their banking

password, one-time passcode, ATM pin or send money to someone who says that doing so will prevent fraud on their account. Bank employees won’t call, text or email consumers asking for this information, but crooks will. If you receive a call like this, hang up and call the phone number on your account statement, the back of your credit or debit card or bank website to verify the authenticity of the request.

Imposter scams What they look like: Someone will call or email you claiming to be from an organization you trust, like the Internal Revenue Service. They may threaten you by saying that if you don’t pay taxes or fees owed, they’ll bring a lawsuit against you.

How to stop them: If you think there’s truly a possibility that you owe money, don’t pay it to someone who initiates a call or email to you. Instead, hang up and call the organization in question directly.

Grandparent scams What they look like: You’ll get an email from a grandchild (or other relative) saying that they’re in trouble and need money fast.

How to stop them: Call your relative directly. If you can’t reach them, contact another relative who knows them and may know their whereabouts and circumstances. Whatever you do, don’t send money, purchase gift cards, or share any of your personal information, including your banking username and password. Scammers use threats and try to create a sense of urgency to trick you. Always trust your gut and end communication when something seems off.

What should you do to stop scam artists?

There are steps you can take to protect yourself.

DO: • Educate yourself on the most common scams. Fraud-

sters will use anything to their advantage — claiming to be from the IRS, pretending to offer tech support, baiting you with prizes or cash winnings — the sky’s the limit!

• Monitor credit score for free with Chase Credit Journey — you don’t even need to be a Chase customer to sign up! It will notify you if your data is compromised.

Plus, you’ll receive critical alerts that help protect your credit and identity.

• Review your accounts closely if you believe you may have fallen for a scam. With Chase, you can also set up account alerts so you can be notified of transactions on your account.

DON’T: • Click on suspicious links on emails or texts unless you’re sure it’s from a credible source. Only access your accounts through the bank’s mobile app or their website.

• Share personal information. Neither Chase nor any other bank will ever ask for your username, password, ATM pin, etc. when reaching out to you. Banks may ask for this information only when you call to discuss your account.

• Transfer money to someone claiming to be from your bank. Banks will never ask to send money via wire, check or other method to “stop or prevent fraud.”

• Pay someone using gift cards, especially when they claim to need them to remove a virus from your computer, stop fraud on your account or to buy plane tickets to come visit you.

What more can you do to protect yourself from fraud and scams?

One of the most effective things you can do to prevent fraud is to regularly monitor your bank and credit card accounts so that you can be on the lookout for signs of unusual activity.

Your bank’s mobile app can give you easy access to self-service tools that let you track your finances 24/7. If you spot something suspicious, immediately report any concerning activity to your bank.

Many banks, including Chase, also let you set up account alerts to help you detect unusual transactions to your bank or credit card by sending automatic notifications.

If you’re not sure if your bank or financial institution already offers these tools or services, be sure to ask.

If you believe that you may have been a victim of fraud or scams, there’s no need to feel embarrassed or ashamed. It can happen to anyone. What’s most important is to take immediate action.

To learn more about common scams and how to stop scammers in their tracks visit: www.chase.com/security-tips. You can also learn tips to identify and avoid financial abuse by visiting: www.chase.com/financialabuse.

ALLEN MEDIA GROUP PROMOTES DARREN GALATT TO CHIEF REVENUE OFFICER LOS ANGELES PRNewswire -- Byron Allen’s Allen Media Group (AMG) proudly announces the promotion of Darren Galatt to Chief Revenue Officer, effective immediately. Galatt’s previous title was President of Advertising Sales for Global Syndication, a position he held since 2016, where he oversaw advertising, sponsorships, and new business development across the full portfolio of AMG broadcast syndication and digital platforms.

Galatt has been an AMG employee since 2003, first as Vice President of Advertising Sales, and then promoted to President of Advertising Sales for the AMG Global Syndication division. In his newly-elevated position, Galatt will continue to be responsible for advertising, sponsorships, and new business development across the full

portfolio of the AMG broadcast syndication, television networks, and digital platforms. As Chief Revenue Officer, Galatt will now be responsible for the coordination and expansion of revenue and new business development across the Allen Media Group portfolio of media assets.

Prior to Galatt’s 19 years with AMG, he spent over a decade in national broadcast buying, where he held positions at various advertising agencies including J. Walter Thompson, McCann Erickson, and Carat. His major accounts included Sprint, Coca-Cola, and Pfizer.

“It is both an honor and a blessing to continue working alongside Byron Allen after 19 years. It has been exciting to watch Allen Media Group go from 2 employees to over

2,000 employees, by starting with only one weekly syndicated television show and growing into a multi-platform media conglomerate,” said Darren Galatt, Chief Revenue Officer of Allen Media Group.

In 2016, Allen Media Group purchased The Grio, a highly-rated digital video-centric news community platform devoted to providing African-Americans with compelling stories and perspectives currently underrepresented in existing national news outlets. The Grio features aggregated and original video packages, news articles and opinion pieces on topics that include breaking news, politics, health, business and entertainment. Originally launched in 2009, the platform was then purchased by NBC News in 2010. The digital platform remains focused on curating exciting digital content and currently has more than 100 million annual visitors.

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Kinkistry’s 2022 Hairstyle Trends for Women of Color Natural hairstyles continue to be a necessary part of self and societal acceptance for women of color in 2022, and Kinkistry is here to help create gorgeous looks Kinkistry that turn heads and bring out confidence for an all-around fabulous spring.

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Black Fashion Designers Create The Perfect Spring Looks The Black Fashion Week| USA runway event returned for its 7th annual fashion week over the weekend ending Black History Month and Celebrating Women’s History Month in Chicago, IL. The event took place in Chicago, IL where it all began 7 years ago with a vision to highlight designers of color, promoting and exposing their brand aesthetics to the general public nationwide in key metropolitan cities.

The runway show featured six designers Dream Designs, Amara Blak, Bel Blak Couture, Thom Kat Fashion & Art Boutique, Stephane St. Jaymes and emerging designer Jonathan Thedford who all showcased their new & exciting spring 2022 collections.

The Designers who showcased with Black Fashion Week 2022 included four talented black women designers whose collections were full of vibrant, playful patterns, colors, dual textures in some of the most fascination silhouettes just perfect for the upcoming 2020 spring season proms, weddings and festive occasions. Emerging designer Jonathan Thedford debuted his first ever fashion week collection which included beautiful two-piece evening ensembles with a focus on asymmetrical high/low skirts. The final designer of the runway included international Designer Stephane St. Jayme’s born in London, but now residing in Chicago IL. His head turning collection featured a combination of classic black, and nude hues in eye catching nontraditional, yet futuristic silhouettes with dashes of ostrich embellishments adorning his garments. Beauty services were provided by Chicago’s very one

by Makeup First makeup artistry school along THE BLACK FASHION WEEK with Delali Robinson Cosmetics, 360 Blowout bar, Carla NaTasha & Studio 83.

The event took place live at the Royal Garden Banquet Halls located 2515 N. Harlem, Ave. and was hosted by Dr. Nakita Nicci “The Media Doctor” as seen on the hit Bravo’s hit TV show “To Rome for Love.”

Guest enjoyed music by DJ sensation DJ Bsyde, delicious bites & treats from our featured chef, The Purple Ribbon Chef” drinks from Barefoot Wine and fabulous swag bags courtesy of Curls.Biz featuring a host of products from sponsors such as Minovet, B Fragranced and Delali Cosmetics and Luster Haircare. Visit www.blackfashionweekusa.com to read more about each designer.

J. Dow Fitness Launches Spring Collection 2022 ATLANTA PRNewswire -- Blazing on the heels of the amazing nationwide feature at Target in February, J. Dow Fitness announces its 2022 Spring Collection, The collection featuring a combination of activewear, athleisure apparel and a new fitness accessory, It is available exclusively on the J. Dow Fitness website.

Customers will love the special features which include a supportive sports bra, full length top, high-waist legging, popular bodysuit and bottoms with pockets.

“The Spring Collection was designed to help women look cute, feel comfortable and release self-confidence as they prioritize their health and commit to their fitness and nutrition goals,” said J. Dow Fitness Founder, Dr. Jacqueline Dow. Starting J. Dow Fitness has provided Dr. Dow the opportunity to merge her background PRNewsFoto as a public health research scientist with practical approaches that empower women to live their healthiest and best lives. J. Dow Fitness caters to the body type of every woman by carrying inclusive sizes that range from small to 3XL. Our brand provides a combination of activewear, athleisure apparel and fitness accessories. Over the years, J. Dow Fitness has partnered with Target Corporation and featured in Ebony, Huff Post, Who What Wear and The Grio.

For more information about J. Dow Fitness follow @jdowfitness on all social media platforms and www.jdowfitness.com.

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UChicago launches scholarships and comprehensive support for students and scholars impacted by war in Ukraine Initiative to include mentoring, streamlined application process and Center in Paris programming to help students pursue higher education As part of a comprehensive effort to supstudies in Ukraine port students and scholars impacted by the war in “The invasion of Ukraine and the devastatUkraine, the University of Chicago announced today ing humanitarian crisis that is unfolding has many that it will provide full-tuition scholarships for undimensions, including the disruption of the lives dergraduate students affected by the invasion. and careers of scholars and students who have the The new initiative is potential to contribute to new inspired by the impact that “By providing these resources knowledge that will benefit the University has seen after humanity,” said UChicago and expanding the support supporting other students and President Paul Alivisatos. scholars affected by globis ready to expand available through our Center in “UChicago al wars and crises in recent admission efforts and support decades. UChicago is comfor displaced students and Paris, we hope to support the mitted to bringing together scholars who are impacted by potential of the young people students and scholars of all the war in Ukraine and events backgrounds from around impacted by the war in Ukraine across the region.” the world in a setting of free UChicago’s Center in and ensure their futures are not Paris—which serves as the expression. In addition to full-tuition scholarships, the derailed by political conflict and University’s regional hub plan includes: for education, research and violence.”

• Expanded programcollaboration across Europe, ming in college readiness and the Middle East and Africa— preparation for college appliin June will begin offering cations for students from Ukraine; such remote and in-person and online admission and college-readiin-person programming will be based at UChicago’s ness support. The support will include a streamlined Center in Paris UChicago application process for students from • Increased financial support and other services Ukraine who are unable to complete their final for current UChicago students and scholars affected semesters, and a connection to help them apply to by the war in Ukraine who have financial hardship more than 150 other institutions of higher education • Expanded fellowship programs for current through the Coalition for College app. For more college students who are unable to continue their T:6" information on the College initiative, please visit

Gary Native Returns to Region to Promote Celebrity Comedy Shows in Chicago

“MY PARENTS GOT ME VACCINATED BECAUSE THEY WANTED TO PROTECT ME.”

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Despite his decades long career as a Hollywood comedian and actor, Buddy Lewis has not forgotten his Gary, IN roots. His most recent project is in Chicago, and he is inviting all of Gary, Northwest Indiana and Chicagoland to join in the fun. The first Saturday of each month, Lewis is hosting comedy shows at the ETA Theater, 7558 S. South Chicago Ave. featuring Chicago-born comics.

“The pandemic dealt some hard blows to the theater industry,” said the West Side High School and Howard University grad. “ The ETA theater is a widely-known venue that has been featuring Black talent for more than 50 years, giving artists like me a platform to showcase our talents. I am doing my part to ensure this continues.”

Lewis says the monthly shows will continue through the end of summer followed by a brief hiatus for renovations to the theater. The April 2nd shows, which take place at 7:00 p.m. and 10:00 p.m., feature Chicago favorites Kenny Howell, George Willborn and Lewis as host.

Lewis is also working with the production team on the return of the hit series “The Real House Husbands of Hollywood” and is set to appear in several films later this year.

“I have been afforded many opportunities and blessed to travel to many places, but there’s no place like home,” said Lewis. “It would make me so proud not only to fill every seat in support of the ETA theater, but to see my Gary people in the house. I promise it will be a fun outing that you can plan to attend every month through August.”

General admission is $25, and VIP packages are also available. Parking is free.

For more information, visit https://www.etacreativearts. org/.

—BRYNN, AGE 6

PROTECT THEIR CHILDHOOD. GET THEM VACCINATED TODAY.

Visit Chicago.gov/ChildVax

L MECHANICAL 03/04/22

UChicago’s international financial aid website.

“UChicago was founded as a beacon of academic excellence, and that includes supporting the global academic community in times of great need,” said John W. Boyer, dean of the College and the Martin A. Ryerson Distinguished Service Professor of History and the College. “By providing these resources and expanding the support available through our Center in Paris, we hope to support the potential of the young people impacted by the war in Ukraine and ensure their futures are not derailed by political conflict and violence.”

UChicago is also working with individual scholars and scientists in Ukraine and with the national Scholars At Risk organization, to place them in departments and laboratories at the University. Scholars at Risk was founded at UChicago in 1999 to offer safe harbor and academic freedom for scholars facing danger in their home countries.

UChicago has a long history of welcoming students and scholars from around the world to advance the exchange of ideas, including during times of conflict and crisis. Refugees from Europe in the 1930s and 1940s made historic contributions at UChicago in the sciences and other academic fields, including Nobel laureate Enrico Fermi. In recent years, UChicago has helped students and scholars from Afghanistan and Iraq, and extended support to students from Puerto Rico who were impacted by the 2017 hurricanes.

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CTA Hosts Meeting Regarding Future Contracted Work as Part of the Proposed Red Line Extension Project Agency brings together local vendors and suppliers to discuss business opportunities with a special emphasis on Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE) participation As part of its commitment to extend contracting opportunities to the communities it serves, the Chicago Transit Authority (CTA), hosted a virtual meeting for local small businesses and disadvantaged business enterprises (DBEs) to learn more about upcoming contracting opportunities as part of the proposed Red Line Extension (RLE) project.

“The Red Line Extension is a critical project for mobility and growth in Chicago,” said CTA President Dorval R. Carter, Jr. “For those minority- or women-owned businesses interested in working on the project, this is your opportunity to learn more about this major public works effort and what is required to get involved.”

As part of this initial meeting, “Route to Procurement”, interested vendors were provided an update on the overall RLE project, benefits for small business participation in future contracting opportunities, as well as steps on how to become certified to do business with the CTA. Although the proposed RLE project is still in development, there are plenty of prospects for robust DBE participation in the next steps of the project.

More than 300 businesses owners registered for today’s virtual event. Owners of

minority- and women-owned businesses who were unable to attend today’s meeting, but are still interested in becoming vendors and suppliers, are strongly encouraged to view the webinar, which is posted on the RLE project website at transitchicago.com/RLE. In the coming weeks and through the remainder of the year, CTA will be hosting several pre-bid meetings regarding future contracting opportunities for the RLE project. Dates and additional details of these meetings will be announced later.

The proposed extension of the Red Line is the most transformational project in CTA history. As part of this project, the Red Line would be extended from the existing terminal at 95th/Dan Ryan to 130th Street, subject to the availability of funding. This 5.6-mile extension would include four new, fully accessible rail stations near 103rd Street, 111th Street, Michigan Avenue, and 130th Street. Each new station would include multimodal connections including bus, bike, pedestrian, and park & ride facilities. More than just transit, this project is intended to bring equity, access, and economic opportunity to the Far South Side of Chicago by connecting people to direct and sustainable rail transit.

Camille Weatherspoon Awarded the South Suburban Small Business Association Award The South Suburban Small Business Association (SSSBA) recognizes annually a student who has started a business that benefits the community. Rich Township High School District 227 Sophomore Camille Weatherspoon was nominated and interviewed by the head of the Summit Awards committee, Don Grimwood, and proceeded to the next round. All the applicants were voted on by the executive board and Camille was chosen, even though she was a Sophomore. Recipients have previously been juniors or seniors. Camille was recognized at SSSBA’s annual banquet. Since the ceremony was virtual this year, the head of the committee wanted to present the award personally to Camille. The award was presented by Don Grimwood and Joyce L. Kelley who are members of the SSSBA board.

Camille Weatherspoon is a part of National Honor Society, Volleyball and the Illinois Math and Science Academy. Her business, Exclusive Radiance, sells beauty products and handmade self-care products. Her business was birthed during the pandemic. She was inspired by her aunt and her father’s business ventures.

Upon graduation, Camille would like to go to a 4-year university and major in psychology. Her ultimate goal is to obtain a Ph.D. in psychology. She is passionate about helping others and providing mental health support for her community.

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Hyde Park | Week of March 23, 2022

From left to right: Justin Andrews, Benjy Griffith, Karla Redding-Andrews, Zelma Redding, Macon-Bibb Mayor Lester Miller, Dr. Kevin Williams, Kimberly Epps, Mirako Loyde

Otis Redding Foundation Announces New Center for the Arts & Amphitheater MACON, Ga., PRNewswire -- The Otis Redding Foundation is excited to announce the planned 9,000 square foot Otis Redding Center for the Arts and Amphitheater located in a place that is famous for its musical talent and heritage.

It is envisioned as a central destination for youth educational programs in music and the arts.

“There is no better place to be located, where musicians like a young Otis Redding, Little Richard, and Lena Horne started right here,” said Macon-Bibb Mayor Lester Miller at the March 1 announcement.

The Center will feature two stories of art lab spaces, practice rooms, and studio space for students to explore songwriting, production, performance, and more. An outside amphitheater will open onto downtown Macon’s main thoroughfare and serve as a venue for student performances, a music-filled community gathering space, and a public face on the Otis Redding Foundation’s commitment to preserving Macon’s musical legacy and investing in the city’s next generation of artists.

During his life, Macon-based Soul singer Otis Redding led philanthropic efforts in the Middle Georgia community through scholarships and financial opportunities for disadvantaged youth. Though a tragic plane crash in 1967 cut Otis Redding’s life short, his legacy and dedication to education in his community would live on through his widow, Zelma Redding, who formally established the Otis Redding Foundation in 2007 in her late husband’s honor.

“Educating children through music was a dream of my

husband’s,” said Redding. “He would have been proud of the Foundation’s programs that emphasize creativity and inspiration.”

In 2020, the Knight Foundation provided the Otis Redding Foundation a grant to research a location and devise a plan for a new Center space. Once the location was identified, Mrs. Zelma Redding made a gift of $1 million to purchase the property. Her gift, along with a generous donation from the Griffith Foundation, led initial fundraising efforts.

“I truly believe that making sure all children have equal access to share and build their musical and artistic strengths will help them become well-rounded students, thus making the future of our community brighter,” stated Benjy Griffith, founder of the Griffith Foundation. “The Otis Redding Center for the Arts will most definitely assist with that crucial access to arts education.”

“With planning well underway for an Otis Redding Center for the Arts, we need you,” said existing Center student and high school senior Mirako Loyde. “We need your Determination. We need your Resilience. We need your Energy. We need your Ambition. We need your Mastery.

Otis Redding had a dream. Young people like me have even bigger dreams.”

To DONATE and/or LEARN more on how to join the Foundation’s mission to empower, enrich and motivate all young people through programs involving music, writing, and instrumentation at the Otis Redding Center for the Arts, visit otisreddingfoundation.org/donate or call 478-742-5737.

Clix Celebrates the Top Streaming Women In Front and Behind the Camera (Black PR Wire) LOS ANGELES-- (BUSINESS WIRE) -- Clix, the streaming guidance gurus, today picks the Top 20 streaming movies and series, which showcase leading women talent in front and behind the camera for International Women’s Day. With billions of dollars in new production coming online and a galaxy of women stars streaming to the top of our cultural consciousness, here’s a simple-to-wade through list of the best of what to watch in a tribute to Women’s History Month: Zoë Kravitz: KIMI Zoë Kravitz is an agoraphobic techie who discovers evidence of a violent crime. She’s met with resistance when she tries to report it. So…she must do the thing she fears the most to find justice: leave her apartment. Stream Sneak on Clix. Binge on HBO Max. Ariana DeBose and Rita Moreno: West Side Story

The new musical takes on Sharks vs. Jets street gangs in 1957 NYC and the dangerous love-at-first-sight sparks between Maria and Tony. Ariana DeBose is the breakout star as Anita.

Iconic Rita Moreno, won an Oscar for playing Anita in 1961 in the original West Side Story. She now plays Valentina and is also an executive producer on the Steven Spielberg film. Sneak on Clix. Streaming on Disney+ and HBO Max. Shonda Rhimes: Bridgerton – Season 2 Super producer, Shonda Rhimes’ historical romance Bridgerton premiers in Season 2 on Netflix, March 25. Spoiler: Lady Whistledown reveals that Viscount Anthony Bridgerton will dominate the London social season.

For more information visit: www.clix.com

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Legendary hip-hop artist DMC teams up with the Song That Owns Itself (stoi.org) to launch a new track LOS ANGELES CNW -- The team behind The Song That Owns Itself has launched STOI #3 in collaboration with DMC, one-third of the legendary hip-hop group RUN-DMC. Together they have tokenized DMC’s song “Million Scars,” enabling fans to co-own a piece of the song and thus share in its future success including any revenue earned from streaming, licensing, and more. The launch was celebrated on Monday, March 14, with DMC in conversation and performing at The AlgoRanch, an Algorand pop-up event in Austin, TX coinciding with SXSW. Today’s announcement with DMC marks the third major artist utilizing the stoi.org technology, with STOI #1 and #2 coming from Grammy-nominated PRNewsFoto artist Superposition and Jesse Boykins III. Artist DMC shares his thoughts: “For years companies have been trying to get me to do something on blockchain. I have been hesitant because so much of it seemed about speculation, and I was worried about the environmental impact. I didn’t want to be another celebrity putting out NFTs or whatever just because it’s the hot thing to do and people are giving me money to do it.

Then George Howard (arts advisor to Algorand and stoi.org founding member) reached out and introduced me to Algorand which has not only proven that blockchain can be carbon neutral, but is also already being used in so many ways that bring real value to the world. Releasing a STOI today is the first step in launching my DMC (Decentralized Media Company) with the larger goal of creating the next iteration of the music industry that values creators, fans and supports them all in the most transparent and fair way possible.” stoi.org is a revolutionary shared-ownership platform for music; each STOI is a “smart contract” that governs profit sharing for each song, split between creators and fans. At its heart, it allows creators to take back control of their works while rewarding all parties involved in its continued success.

The STOI tokens for “Million Scars” will be distributed via airdrop to attendees of the AlgoRanch pop-up event today in Austin and online at stoi.org/s/3.

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NEW SYNERGY FOR BLACK WORLD PROGRESS Black Americans urged to join African-Caribbean initiative

was held in Cape Coast, where the former slave soluble.” He hoped increased trade and cultural castle with the “Door of No Return” is located. The cooperation would lead to greater cooperation with Barbados leader indicated that her presence in the Caribbean countries.

Hope is on the horizon for a Black world renaishistoric Ghanaian city was a testimony that “we have In addition to the “Beyond the Return” prosance. This is the expected outcome of an agreement returned to Africa, the motherland.” gram,” black Americans are encouraged to join the reached by member-states of the African Union (AU) She declared, “The resilience of Africans in African-Caribbean initiative. Black American capiand the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) at their the Diaspora has triumphed over decades and cental, technology and market can play an effective role virtual first summit. The agreement calls for boostunder the AU-CARICOM program for their mutual turies of slavery, foreign rule and exploitation.

It’s ing trade, investment and technology among them to benefit. Black American leaders must therefore work time we work together in solidarity to fight the batuplift their people from poverty, malnutrition and iltles of our times for shared prosperity and progress.” with the leaders of the two bodies to boost trade, literacy they inherited from slavery and colonialism. investment and technology with other black people.

Among those problems, she listed are COVID-19, With the world now opening for in-person transacWith the Black world’s immense resources, the vaccine nationalism, and the increasing high cost of tions, Barbados and Ghana are urging the two bodies PD018454_1e02_QEXL1224000_ComEd_WHM_10_75x6_5.pdf Barbados leader stressed that they could make their living faced by emerging nations. to begin to implement Client: ComEd the summit’s agreement.

Bleed: 10.75 in x 6.5 in Notes: Chicago Citizen Newspaper Group Inks Used: CMYK Links: CC018454_c02_ComEd_shutterpeople self-sufficient if they are utilized(1193 effectively.

Making her second visit to Ghana, she apCampaign: WHM Print Ads Trim: 10.75 in x 6.5 in Fonts: Diodrum Regular stock_2125868843_NP.tif ppi; CMYK) Ghana’s President Nana Akufo-Addo and BarDiodrum “Africa Semibold CC018454_d02_ComEd_shutterLive: 10.75 in x 6.5 inplauded the country’s support for Barbados’s inand the Caribbean command a vast market bados PrimeAgency Minister Mia Mottley made the calls Job #: B1241-023959-00 Light (1688 ppi; CMYK) with enormous resourcesstock_2125868819_NP.tif and strategic commodities dependence. “Ghana under first president Kwame Diodrum during the recent Ghana 65th independenceKeyline anniverProdigious Job #: B114-018454-00 Scale: Actual Size, 100% Diodrum Medium CC018454_a02_ComEd_shutterbenefit of their Nkrumah was an inspiration to Barbados in our fight that can be harnessed for the stock_2125868738_NP.tif (1631people, ppi; CMYK) sary parade that was transmitted world-wide.

AD #/AD ID: QEXL1224000 Region: US instead of allowing foreign countries to exploit them for independence.

My country is turning back to “The time of black people of the world is Page: Full Page Language: English for their gain,” she effort.

Ghana for us to work together for the needs of our here,” declared the Ghanaian leader, who is credited Date Modified: 3-18-2022 1:50 PM Pan-Africanists like Marcus Garvey, W.E.B. she said. for initiating the program “Year of Return “ to Africa peoples,” NOT TO BEprovided USED FORBarbados COLOR APPROVAL DuBois and Kwame Nkrumah must be applauded for Ghana has with a group in 2019 marking the 400th anniversary of the AtlanECD:N/A CD: N/A AD: N/A CW: N/A P: N/A CSM: N/A PD: Daren James their pioneering efforts in this direction. This new iniof health workers to meet an increasing demand, tic Slave Trade. and there are plans to recruit 200 more nurses from tiative, however, is a step further to reality because of To encourage more Black Americans to parGhana. Officials of the two countries have also the involvement of all African and Caribbean leaders. ticipate in the program, now dubbed “Beyond the The leaders will be able to make use of their countries’ Return,” the Ghana president is due in Charlotte, NC been asked to work to establish direct travel routes between Barbados and Ghana. Already, Barbados has God-given resources and talents to build self-suffilater this month to address the International Chrisopened her first African diplomatic mission in Accra, cient economies for their people. So, all African and tian Leaders Summit at the invitation of Bishop T.D. Ghana’s capital, followed by another in Nairobi, Caribbean countries must heed the calls by Ghana and Jakes. About 3,000 black Americans have already Barbados to begin the process of implementing their been attracted to Ghana by the program that provides Kenya.

Also, in reaffirming his country’s continued agreement. Ghana’s President Akufo-Addo is confident 500 acres of land to returnees to build houses, farms interest in relations with Barbados, the Ghanaian of divine support for this initiative. “The battle is the or businesses. leader stated, “Our relations with Barbados go back Lord’s,” he quoted from the Scriptures in ending his With the theme, “Working Together, Bouncing Back Together,” Ghana’s anniversary parade decades to the Atlantic Slave Trade and are indisanniversary address amid thunderous cheers.

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BY NICHOLAS OKAIJAH-THOMPSON

BUILD

ENGINEER

Consider this: Only about 1 in 4 of the current STEM (science, technology, engineering, math) workforce are women. ComEd believes that’s not nearly enough.

That’s why we’re launching a $250,000 Future of Energy scholarship program for women and people of color pursuing STEM-related degrees in college.

To apply, visit: ComEd.com/STEMscholarship

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A FRACTION TODAY. A FORCE TOMORROW.

CODE

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NATIONAL NEWS

HBCU All-Stars, LLC Announces Rosters, Award Winners for Inaugural All-Star Game NEW ORLEANS - The HBCU All-Star Game, taking place on Sunday, April 3 during Final Four weekend in New Orleans at the UNO Lakefront Arena at 4 pm ET, has named the nation’s top 24 players who will make up the two rosters for the inaugural contest.

The game will air live on the CBS Television Network and be available to stream on Paramount+.

Comprised of some of the best basketball players in the four HBCU NCAA Division I and II conferences in the country and backed by the official founding partner, Aflac, the 24 selections will be split up into two teams of 12 for the historic game, named after a pair of HBCU legends in John McLendon and Clarence “Big House” Gaines.

“The 24 players that have been selected represent the best in college basketball at our country’s prestigious black colleges and universities. Our HBCU All-Stars national scouting staff did an amazing job for the past three months evaluating some of the most talented players from the 48 HBCUs. We know there were many players deserving of the opportunity to play in this game,” said HBCU All-Stars LLC Founder and CEO Travis L. Williams.

“This is history in the making and has been a long journey to get to this point, but we are just getting started and expect to put on a great event with our amazing CBS Sports partners and HBCU All-Stars staff in New Orleans.”

Team McLendon is comprised of players who compete in the Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference (MEAC) and Southern Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (SIAC), while Team Gaines will be made up of players who compete in the Southwestern Athletic Conference (SWAC) and Central Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (CIAA).

Along with the announcement of the players for the game, HBCU AllStars also announced the postseason individual award winners who will be honored at the game in April. The HBCU All-Stars Ben Jobe NCAA Division I Coach of the Year is Robert Jones of Norfolk State University, while the HBCU All-Stars Jerry Johnson NCAA Division II Coach of the Year is Fred Watson of Miles College.

With a mission to advocate, educate, expose, mentor and invest in HBCU student-athletes and coaches across the country, the event aims to showcase the best in Black college basketball. Launched by HBCU All-Stars LLC, a Black-owned sports marketing and events company in Atlanta, the HBCU All-Star Game brings much needed exposure, visibility and recognition to outstanding, talented and hardworking HBCU student-athletes and coaches.

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(BPRW) Racial Equity Video Anthology launched to spread insight and inspiration from grassroots leaders making change (Black PR Wire) Thank you to everyone who joined for this year’s State of Black Philanthropy. Together, we honored and uplifted Black generosity, leadership, and community impact. We experienced the deep wisdom, power, and insights of community leaders and creatives building momentum for a more equitable and just Greater Miami.

And to keep building momentum, the Foundation has launched a Racial Equity Video Anthology - a unique resource to spread visibility and understanding. This public video collection gives anyone access to community leaders sharing their work on racial equity and justice systemic change and Foundation perspectives. It is full of rich insight and inspiration that we hope will help inform and fuel community change.

Seeing people personally share their stories has a unique power and is how the anthology came about. The project originated when instead of a written proposal process for the 2021 Racial Equity Fund awards, we innovated to use video.

We could see, listen, and record conversations. Groups could express more easily their complex work, changing systems that hold racial inequity and injustice in place. We could capture purpose and plans but also experience their vision and passion beyond written words.

We knew we needed to create something broader to elevate and amplify the work and this experience. That something is the Racial Equity Video Anthology collection of videos that anyone can view and download here.

We encourage you to engage with these leaders’ lived experiences and work. To learn and bring those doing this groundwork driving change ‘into the room’ - to be seen, heard, inspire, and inform. A staff gathering. A classroom. A boardroom. A dinner table. Your networks. You hold the possibilities to help us elevate them to shape our community. We hope you, like the Foundation, will gain inspiration and knowledge from the anthology and use it to advance our movement for greater equity and justice.

MAJOR LEAGUE SOCCER LAUNCHES NATIONWIDE PARTNERSHIP WITH THE NATIONAL BLACK BANK FOUNDATION NEW YORK PRNewswire -- Major League Soccer today announced that it would leverage a historic $25 million loan from a syndicate of Black banks, marking the first time any sports league has participated in a major commercial transaction exclusively with Black banks. Facilitated by the nonprofit National Black Bank Foundation (NBBF), the partnership is the latest significant step in a series of ongoing efforts by MLS in the Diversity, Equity and Inclusion space.

Major League Soccer (MLS) and National Blank Bank Foundation (NBBF) leaders join with Dr. Bernice A. King to announce MLS’s historic $25 million transaction with Black-owned banks across the country.

“Major League Soccer’s partnership with the National Black Bank Foundation is a tangible step in the efforts to close the racial economic gap in the United States, and it’s the right business decision for us,” said MLS Commissioner Don Garber. “As a league, we continue to increase our initiatives in support of racial justice. In order to make a genuine impact, economic justice must be part of the equation. This transaction with a syndicate of community-focused Black banks is an important measure, and it is our hope this will raise awareness of the importance of Black-owned banks and their impact on the economy.”

The transaction announced today, coupled with the league’s strong credit rating, will grow the banks’ capital cushion through fees and interest earned, creating additional capacity for new lines of credit for home and small business loans in communities of color across the country. In facilitating the loan, the NBBF organized a syndication team led by Atlanta-based Citizens Trust Bank and New York-based Carver Federal Savings Bank.

“Major League Soccer has raised the bar for corporate America with this transformative partnership,” NBBF co-founder and general counsel, Ashley Bell, said. “If other leagues and major corporations follow the MLS model, lives of Black families all across this country will change for the better because their local Black bank will have the capital resources to approve historic numbers of home and small business loans.”

Black banks fuel social mobility in the United States by connecting borrowers of color to capital. However, the sector’s impact has

Major League Soccer (MLS) and National Blank Bank Foundation (NBBF) leaders join with Dr. Bernice A. King to announce MLS’s historic $25 million transaction with Black-owned banks across the country. L to R: NBBF Co-Founder Brandon Comer; Black Players For Change Founder and MLS veteran Quincy Amarikwa; King Center CEO Dr. Bernice A. King; MLS Chief Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Officer Sola Winley; NBBF Co-Founder Ashley Bell. PRNewsfoto/Major League Soccer

been limited by a chronic, acute undercapitalization that has restricted the flow of credit it could create for underserved borrowers.

According to the Federal Reserve, the Black-white economic gap in the United States has remained virtually untouched since the Civil Rights Movement. Historical efforts by Black families to escape the continuum of poverty by building intergenerational wealth, primarily through homeownership and small business entrepreneurship, have been thwarted by racialized credit access. In 2020, lenders denied Black mortgage applicants at a rate 84% higher than white borrowers.

In October 2020, MLS unveiled a series of initiatives aimed at combatting racism, advocating for social justice and increasing Black representation in the sport. Using the league’s resources and platform to make tangible contributions to closing the racial wealth gap is one important component of MLS’ commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion.

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Notice is hereby given, pursuant to “An Act in relation to the use of an Assumed Business Name in the conduct or transaction of Business in the State,”� as amended, that a certification was registered by the undersigned with the County Clerk of Cook County. Registration Number: Y22008788 on MARCH 11, 2022. Under the Assumed Business Name of THE COMFORT COLLECTION BY YASHIA with the business located at: 11105 SOUTH KEDZIE AVENUE, CHICAGO, ILLINOIS 60655. The true and real full name(s) and residence address of the owner(s)/partner(s) is: Owner/Partner Full Name RABIHAH SIMMONS RILEY Complete Address: 11105 SOUTH KEDZIE AVENUE, CHICAGO, ILLINOIS 60655, USA. _______________________________________

REAL ESTATE HUD/BANK FORECLOSURES CITY & SUBURBS Call: FRED D. CLINK (773) 294-5870 REALTY SERVICES CONSORTIUM ____________________________________ 3+ Bedroom HOMES FOR SALE SELLER FINANCING Call: FRED D. CLINK (773) 294-5870 REALTY SERVICES CONSORTIUM ____________________________________ IMBC Lending Ronnie Smith Loan Officer FHA/VA Conventional Loans, Call Me For YOur Mortgage Needs Ronnie Smith (346) 237-0221 _____________________________________

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773-416-7555 http://shaymarmedia.com shaymarmedia@gmail.com

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CD#123122

Classified Advertising call us at (773) 783-1251 Display Advertising call us at (773) 783-1251 Coverage Areas: CHATHAM-SOUTHEAST

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SOUTH END

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SOUTH SUBURBAN Serves communities in Harvey, Markham, Phoenix, Robbins, Dixmoor, Calumet Park, Blue Island, South Holland, and Dolton.

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Notice is hereby given pursuant to “An Act in relation to the use of an Assumed Business Name in the conduct or transaction of Business in the State”, as amended, that a certification was registered by the undersigned with the County Clerk of Cook County. Registration Number: Y22008737 on MARCH 4, 2022. Under the Assumed Business Name of WAR AND LOVE CO. with the business located at: 11105 SOUTH KEDZIE AVENUE, CHICAGO, IL 60655. The true and real full name(s) and residence address of the owner(s) / partner (s) is: Owner/Partner Full Name RABIHAH SIMMONS RILEY Complete Address 11105 S. KEDZIE, CHICAGO, IL 60655, USA _______________________________________

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., (CNGII), Publisher of the ChathamSoutheast, 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 press release information to: editorial@citizennewspapergroup.com. For more information on subscriptions or advertising, call us at (773) 7831251 or fax (872) 208-8793. Our offices are located at 8741 South Greenwood Suite# 107, Chicago, Illinois 60619.

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CD#032922

ELIZABETH “LIZZIE G” ELIE LICENSED REALTOR

773.543.1783 eelie@kalerealty.com elizabethelie.kalerealty.com 2447 N. Ashland Chicago, IL 60614 @SoldbyLizzieG

12 | Hyde Park | Week of March 23, 2022

HYDE PARK