HYDE PARK CITIZEN 3-24-2021

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

Citizen Week of March 24, 2021

| Vol. 32 | No. 18 | www.citizennewspapergroup.com

HYDE PARK

Cars.com Shoppers Logged a Record 30 Million Hours on the Platform Last Year, as More Americans Turn to Car Ownership Page 4

The Community Builders program has been a way for Project H.O.O.D. to carry out its mission to empower residents on the South Side and provide resources, tools and information. Photo provided by Alejandra Moran

Navigate Year 2 Of The Pandemic Page 7

SKILLED WORKERS PROGRAM LAUNCHES WOMEN-ONLY COHORT Project H.O.O.D. (Helping Others Obtain Destiny) recently began an all-women’s cohort of its popular Communities Builders program. PAGE 2

Serving The Black Community For Decades |

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NEWS briefly EDUCATION “AUDACITY TO DREAM” SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAM ENCOURAGES AND ASSISTS AFRICAN AMERICAN DENTAL STUDENTS In a continuing commitment to address racial disparities in oral health, the National Dental Association Foundation (NDAF) and Colgate-Palmolive Company have announced the creation of the “Audacity to Dream” scholarship program for African Americans pursuing careers in dentistry. Students currently enrolled in dental school and demonstrating success in areas such as leadership, community service, and research will be eligible for grants from $5,000 to $20,000. Grants will be presented at the NDAF’s annual convention in June 2021.

Dental care is one of the United States’ largest unmet health needs.

Studies indicate that African American children, ages two- to 8-years old, are about twice as likely as whites to have untreated tooth decay.

African American working-age adults are also almost twice as likely to have untreated decay as their white counterparts according to The Pew Charitable Trusts at www.pewtrusts.org. Applications and awards criteria are available here: https://ndafoundation.org/audacity-todream-scholarship.html

HEALTH

PARKINSON’S FOUNDATION RELEASES RESULTS OF FIRST-EVER MEDICAL CANNABIS AND PARKINSON’S DISEASE SURVEY The Parkinson’s Foundation recently announced the results of the medical cannabis and Parkinson’s disease (PD) survey. The survey, titled Weeding Through the Haze: A Survey on Cannabis Use Among People Living with Parkinson’s Disease in the U.S., was distributed to 7,607 people with PD in January 2020, with 1,064 complete responses analyzed.

The survey results show that there is a knowledge gap among people living with PD, which may be impacting their decisions about cannabis use. Fifty-six percent of survey respondents were not provided any information on how to use cannabis such as dosage, type and frequency of use. Sixty-four percent had not received a cannabis recommendation from a licensed doctor or provider. Overall, 89 percent said cannabis was not a replacement for their PD prescription medication.

In the U.S., cannabis has become more widely available for medical and recreational use. Until now, there was insufficient data about the attitudes towards, and experiences with, cannabis use among those living with PD. This survey aims to address this disparity.

The 1,064 survey respondents came from 49 states. The average age for respondents was 71, and the average time they have lived with Parkinson’s is seven years.

LAW & POLITICS

FTC SENDS OUT ADDITIONAL ROUND OF REDRESS CHECKS IN J.K. PUBLICATIONS CREDIT CARD FRAUD CASE The Federal Trade Commission, through its refund administrator, is mailing 187,664 checks totaling more than $3.2 million to consumers who lost money to an illegal credit card billing scam operated by J.K. Publications and other defendants. The FTC first mailed checks in this matter in June 2009, and this is the fourth distribution of refunds to consumers. In total, the FTC has distributed more than $21 million.

Consumers who previously cashed checks from the FTC will receive a new check for $17.17. The refunds are the result of a lawsuit the FTC filed in 1999, and most of the illegal billing dates back to 1998. The availability of these funds is made possible by the repatriation of funds from offshore accounts that the defendants created.

According to a press release, J.K. Publications and the other defendants placed charges on consumers’ credit and debit cards for online entertainment services they had not ordered and did not want.

The records obtained during litigation contained only credit and debit card numbers. Under instructions from the court, credit reporting agencies and banks provided the FTC with the names and addresses associated with the card numbers as of the date of the charges.

Consumers who receive checks should cash them within 90 days, as indicated on the check. Consumers who have questions can call the redress administrator, Epiq, Inc., at 877-670-0862.

Project H.O.O.D. began its women-only cohort of the Community Builders program this week. At the end of the 12-week program, women will have three credentials that will allow them to seek gainful employment in the electrical field. Photo provided by Alejandra Moran

Skilled workers program launches women-only cohort Continued from page 1

BY TIA CAROL JONES

Project H.O.O.D. (Helping Others Obtain Destiny) recently began an all-women’s cohort of its popular Communities Builders program.

Project H.O.O.D. is a not-for-profit organization established by Pastor Corey Brooks in 2012.

The mission of the organization is to empower people by providing programming to youth, adults and families in the Englewood and Woodlawn communities.

In its third year, the free, 12-week program is a partnership between Project H.O.O.D and the Associated Builders and Contractors, Inc., Illinois Chapter.

The goal of the program is to create employment opportunities for underrepresented communities. Since the program began, more than 100 students from 10 communities have been trained.

Brooks, CEO of Project H.O.O.D., said the organization wanted to partner with Community Builders because they made themselves accessible to the community and showed a willingness to want to do something for the people in the community.

“A lot of times, organizations don’t reach into our communities and help those who are the most marginalized and left out. And, the fact that they did, speaks volumes. We wanted to partner with people who are concerned about the plight of our community,” he said. www.citizennewspapergroup.com

Brooks said Community Builders benefits the community by providing training for individuals to get into an area that is growing vastly – the trades. He said it provides individuals who participate in the program with access to employers they otherwise, might not have access to.

“It gives them the training that is needed to connect the employers, with those individuals who are trained, so they can get jobs to take care of their families and make our communities a better place,” he said.

The women-only cohort is geared towards women who are interested in the electrical trade. At the end of the 12 weeks, those who successfully complete the course, will receive a core credential, level one electrical and OSHA 10.

There was also a carpentry class, first and second level. Brooks said they are working on providing HVAC and plumbing. In addition, he said there was a discussion during a staff meeting about ways to support women by helping them to get into career fields, adding, he couldn’t think of a better way to help women to do that, in March, which is Women’s History Month, than to do a women’s-only cohort of the program.

“We thought it would be a really great opportunity, and we found out that there was a lot of response. So, this definitely won’t be our last class,” he said. “Our last carpentry class, we had a record number of women in-

volved. This opportunity, we had more than 60 women register, which says they’re starting to be interested in this field. And, they should be, because it is a great opportunity.”

Brooks said Project H.O.O.D. wants to be able to open up the doors to this kind of opportunity for women to get the training, which is desperately needed. Classes for the cohort started on Monday, March 15.

According to Brooks, there were some serious adjustments made in the program due to COVID-19. He said the pandemic hindered the program and caused delays. For example, the hands-on nature of the class and the number of participants had to change.

The class size was reduced to 18, but Brooks added, there is a move to get a second cohort to accommodate the other applicants.

Brooks said he has spoken to women in the program, and they have various reasons why they wanted to participate.

He said there are women who own property who want to learn the trade so they can better take care of their own property. Others have a strong interest in the electrical trade field and want to get jobs in the profession, he said.

“It’s a diverse group of sisters from a diverse group of backgrounds and all of them seem to be really excited about the opportunity and about this class,” he said.

For more information about Project H.O.O.D., visit www.projecthood.org.

CITIZEN | Hyde Park | Week of March 24, 2021

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NEWS

IDNR Awards Illinois Biodiversity Field Trip Grants to Schools More than 2,000 students will visit Illinois state parks, natural areas, museums and other natural resources sites this year to learn about nature and conservation thanks to grant funding through the Illinois Biodiversity Field Trip Grant Program.

Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) Director Colleen Callahan recently announced the awarding of more than $34,000 in donated funds for 37 field trip grants.

Winners represented 15 counties in the state.

“This program allows students to visit locations throughout the state to see first-hand what they’ve been learning about in the classroom,” said Director Callahan. “Our future conservation leaders need the opportunity to experience Illinois’ natural resources in person. We are pleased to be able to support learning outside the classroom with these grants.”

The entire $34,080.75 being awarded for 2021 was made possible by private donations from the Independence Tube Corporation of Bedford Park, the Daniel F. and Ada

L. Rice Foundation of Skokie, and the D. F. and M. T. Grohne Family Foundation of Wilmington. The donations and funding for the grants are coordinated by the Illinois Conservation Foundation (ICF).

The Illinois Biodiversity Field Trip Grant Program has now distributed more than $1,321,000 and more than 119,000 students have been provided with the opportunity to take part in a field trip since the program’s inception in 2001. Grant recipients are located throughout Illinois and represent students from pre-kindergarten through high school.

The competitive grant program allows Illinois teachers to apply for funds to take students on a field trip to study Illinois’ natural resources.

Learning activities must directly relate to the school’s curriculum.

The annual application deadline is January 31. Funding administered by the ICF covers expenses such as the costs of transportation and substitute teachers.

For more information about the

More than 2,000 students will visit Illinois state parks, natural areas, museums and other natural resources sites this year to learn about nature and conservation thanks to a grant. Pictured is the French Canyon Waterfall in Starved Rock State Park, one of the state parks in Illinois. Photo credit: Illinois Dept. of Natural Resources

Illinois Biodiversity Field Trip Grant Program, contact the IDNR Division of Education at dnr.teachkids@ illinois.gov or 217-524-4126. The Illinois Conservation Foundation gladly accepts donations for the

Illinois Biodiversity Field Trip Grant Program. Visit https://ilconservation. org/ for additional information.

For a list of this year’s grant recipients, check the IDNR website at https://www2.illinois.gov/dnr/

education/Documents/IBFTGAwardees2021.pdf.

The 2022 application form will be available soon at https://www2. illinois.gov/dnr/education/Pages/ GrantsIBFTG.aspx.

Governor’s eviction moratorium extension expands tenant protections Attorneys say some small landlords are being hit hard by non-payment

BY SARAH MANSUR Capitol News Illinois smansur@capitolnewsillinois.com

Springfield — Gov. JB Pritzker’s latest executive order extending the eviction moratorium for residential tenants adds a new legal protection for tenants who are unable to pay rent due to the pandemic.

Executive order 2021-05, issued recently, prevents landlords from pursuing legal action in court against a tenant as long as the tenant gives notice of their inability to pay, and the tenant is not “a direct threat to the health and safety of other tenants or an immediate and severe risk to property.”

Pritzker’s moratorium on residential evictions, first issued in late March 2020, applies to renters who submit a declaration saying they are unable to pay rent as a result of the pandemic and would be rendered homeless if they were evicted. Eligible renters must earn less than $99,000 annually if filing taxes as a single

person, or $198,000 if filing tax returns jointly.

The most recent order clarifies that renters can be protected from eviction as long as they submit their declaration form, even if they submit the form after their landlord began legal action to evict them.

Previous executive orders on the eviction moratorium established that law enforcement could not enforce a court order to evict tenants if brought by a landlord, said Michael Steadman, a Chicago attorney who represents landlords.

Steadman, a sole practitioner, said the new executive order effectively extends the period of time in which renters can make the written declaration, which is a form provided by the Illinois Housing Development Authority.

“Whereas before, if (renters) didn’t make the written declaration before a landlord filed their eviction case, the case could move forward, although the eviction couldn’t. Now, they can freeze the eviction case, even after the case is filed,” Steadman said in a phone interview. “It’s

a small change. But it is an additional impediment, as far as landlords moving eviction cases through the system and dealing with non-paying tenants.”

Pritzker has renewed his eviction moratorium through several executive orders since March order expired.

His executive order in November, which created the declaration form, established that renters could be evicted if they were a threat to the safety of other tenants or a risk to property.

Steadman, who works on Chicago’s southwest side, said some of his clients who only own one or two buildings are struggling.

“I can assure you that there are tenants out there, and it’s a small minority of them and I don’t know how small, who are taking advantage of the situation, and are very much aware of my clients’ limited ability to remedy the situation and get their property back,” he said.

Phil Vacco, a sole practitioner and chairman of the Illinois State Bar Association’s real estate law section, said the eviction moratorium is a

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regular topic of discussion during the organization’s meetings.

“An argument can be made that when it comes to protecting the rights of tenants during the COVID crisis that the pendulum has swung too far to one side, without providing any real assistance for the property owner,” Vacco said in an interview. “While the governor has stressed that the moratorium is not intended to act as rent forgiveness... Even when the eviction moratorium is lifted it may be difficult, if not impossible, for landlords to collect what is due.”

In the meantime, Vacco said landlords are still obligated to pay real estate taxes, insurance, maintenance fees and mortgages on their property.

“Mom-and-pop landlords, who don’t have the financial ability to weather this storm, may find themselves forced out of business, leaving more and more rental properties in the hands of a larger corporations. In the long run this can make it more difficult for tenants to negotiate lease terms.”

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BUSINESS

Chick-fil-A Opens Applications for $5 Million in Nonprofit Grants Applications are now open for the 2022 Chick-fil-A True Inspiration Awards™ grant program. For the second year in a row, Chick-fil-A, Inc. will award $5 million in grants to 34 deserving nonprofits that are Blackled or impacting communities of color in the areas of education, homelessness and hunger. The 2022 True Inspiration Awards grants range from $50,000 to $350,000 and organizations in the U.S. and Canada have until May 31, 2021 to apply.

“There are incredible nonprofit organizations across the U.S. and Canada working to address key issues that disproportionately affect communities of color in the areas of education, homelessness and hunger,”

said Rodney Bullard, vice president of corporate social responsibility for Chick-fil-A, Inc. “Through our annual True Inspiration Awards, we are honored to help these organizations, based in the communities we serve, extend their impact, helping to pave the way for greater opportunity and equity.”

Last year’s 34 True Inspiration Awards recipients spanned two countries, 18 states and 29 cities, and positively impacted more than 230,000 individuals annually through their work.

Eligible nonprofits can apply for the grants on the Chick-fil-A website or be nominated by a local Chickfil-A restaurant Operator. In Sep-

tember, Chick-fil-A One® members will have the opportunity to vote for nominated organizations located in their geographic region through the Chick-fil-A App. Last year, nearly one million people voted through the app to select the 2021 True Inspiration Awards recipients.

The True Inspiration Awards program was created to carry on Chickfil-A Founder S. Truett Cathy’s legacy of generosity and community service.

Since 2015, 171 organizations in 33 states, Washington, D.C. and Canada, have been awarded grants totaling $12 million. Learn more about the True Inspiration Awards application process here: https://www.chick-fil-a. com/true-inspiration-awards

Move Over Sharks: New Book Black Angels: The Wealth Edition Teaches Beginners How to Become Angel Investors Popular TV shows like “Shark Tank” and “The Profit” have put angel investors front and center. But, according to Dr. Shanté Williams, angel investing is not only for the rich and famous sharks. Her highly-anticipated book “Black Angels: The Wealth Edition” is a practical guide that reminds readers that they don’t have to be millionaires to start angel investing.

Dr. Williams, a distinguished venture capitalist, business owner, inventor, intellectual property strategist, and private investor, has served as a financial consultant and speaker for more than a decade.

“This book was written to help people, especially women and people of color, mobilize their dollars to become angel investors,” Dr. Williams explained. “It’s an easy-to-read guide that will help demystify the investment process Black Angels: The and help others become angel Wealth Edition Cover investors.”

In recent years, angel investing has become more accessible thanks to the passage of the Jumpstart Our Business Start Ups (JOBS) Act of 2012, a law that was enacted to spur small business funding. The act removed some of the regulatory restrictions surrounding financial angel and their investments.

Dr. Williams emphasizes that angel investing isn’t without risk, but the rewards for a successful investment can be astronomical. Her book provides wealth guidance and practical tips on how anyone can become an angel investor by using the money they already have to build generational wealth.

“Angel investing isn’t without risk, but the rewards for a successful investment can be astronomical,” she added. “If you choose the right business, a small investment of $500 could produce high percentage gains and build the kind of wealth that lasts generations.”

The book shares the values and advantages of invest-

Dr. Shanté Williams

ing by providing a step-by-step guide to help people get started.

Readers will learn: * How to properly identify investment opportunities * How to conduct due diligence * How to make deals that lead to successful exits “Black Angels: The Wealth Edition” is currently available in hardcover, paperback and as an e-book at https://doctorshante.com/. For more information about Dr. Shanté Williams or to purchase the book, visit https://doctorshante.com/. www.citizennewspapergroup.com

Cars.com Shoppers Logged a Record 30 Million Hours on the Platform Last Year, as More Americans Turn to Car Ownership One year from the start of a historic worldwide pandemic that changed commerce and transportation, maybe permanently, leading automotive digital marketplace and solutions provider Cars.com Inc. (NYSE: CARS) recently unveiled new insights about the pandemic’s impact on car buying and selling.

Shoppers logged a record 30 million hours on Cars.com over the last year as the stay-at-home economy took hold, representing a 9% increase since March 2020. There were also significant jumps in first-time and urban buyers entering the auto market, reflecting a shift away from public or shared transportation and a heightened demand for the freedom and security provided by car ownership.

More Americans are prioritizing car ownership. A Cars.com national survey of over 1,500 online respondents revealed that 36% of those who purchased a new or used car since March 2020 were first-time car buyers.

This trend is accompanied by accelerated purchasing timelines, growing demand for technology and safety features, and an average price increase for new and used vehicles.

“One year ago, our world changed as we shifted to digital-first and faced significant transformations in work, travel and commerce. Americans quarantined in their homes found a new appreciation for their cars, which offered a much needed, safe escape and an extension of home during uncertain times,” said Alex Vetter, CEO of Cars.com Inc. “As the U.S. begins to open up, the durable trends we have witnessed in car shopping and selling over the last year will shape the future of automotive and ensure a strong retail environment in 2021. Our next normal demands convenient virtual experiences, online car-buying options and local home delivery.”

Cars.com tracked COVID19’s impact on car shopping and selling since last March, observing the following significant consumer shifts:

* Pandemic continues to advance purchasing timelines: Cars.com found nearly 60% of car buyers reported the pandemic influenced their decision to purchase a vehicle, with more than 50% buying sooner than originally planned. * Local dealers will bring it to you: At-home delivery and virtual services by local dealerships skyrocketed over the last year. Since the pandemic started, 20 million vehicles listed on Cars.com have been available for contactless, local home delivery. * Urban car owners take the wheel: In the past year, 38% of car buyers were in urban areas, where the pandemic accelerated car ownership even further; 3 out of 4 city dwellers cited the pandemic as influencing their decision to buy. Urban buyers were also three times more likely to buy an EV than their suburban counterparts. * New or used, cars are selling faster, and for more: Increased demand, supply challenges and a global chip shortage led to rising prices for consumers. New-vehicle average prices rose 4.8% year over year and notably sold 22 days faster on Cars.com compared to pre-pandemic. Used-vehicle average prices increased 9.7% year over year and sold five days faster on Cars.com from the same period a year ago. * Tech, safety and versatility are increasingly important: Americans chose to drive more frequently and longer distances; at the same time, cars became extensions of homes and offices.

Predictably, shoppers sought features that would provide more comfort, connection and peace of mind. The following features saw the largest upticks in 2020 searches: * Tow Hitch +55.4% YoY * Cooled Seats +36.3% YoY * Heated Steering Wheel +34.0% YoY * Apple CarPlay/Android Auto +24.3% YoY * Rear Cross-Traffic Alert +116.5% YoY For more information about 2021 car-buying and selling trends, visit Cars.com/news/ coronavirus/.

CITIZEN | Hyde Park | Week of March 24, 2021

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FASHION

Afterpay Day Goes Omni Channel with First In-Store and Online Shopping Sale Afterpay (ASX:APT) recently announced that its fifth bi-annual Afterpay Day will include brick-and-mortar shopping for the first time and run for an extended four-day period, from March 25-28, 2021. Afterpay Day has historically been the biggest driver of sales for merchants across the country, with deals and promotions from nearly three thousand fashion, beauty and lifestyle retailers and brands, according to a press release.

Customers can take advantage of up to 70% off from the best retailers across the country, and manage their payments in four installments without incurring

PRNewsfoto/Afterpay

interest. Late fees may apply.

Eligibility criteria apply. See afterpay.com for the full terms.

A number of new brands partnering with Afterpay in-store will be participating

in this season’s sales event, offering promotions across e-commerce and their physical locations, including Steve Madden, MAC Cosmetics, Jo Malone London, Aveda, origins, Vera Bradley and more.

A variety of the participating merchants will be offering exclusive promotions that are only offered to Afterpay customers. Customers can use the Afterpay Shop Directory to unlock special deals from SHEIN, Anthropologie, J Crew, Gilt, Rue La La, PUMA, Tarte Cosmetics, Kiehl’s, and more.

According to August 2020 Afterpay data, during the last

Afterpay Day, merchant partners saw average sales grow by 36%, with the average number of new customers growing by 46% and in December 2020 alone, 45 million customer referrals were sent to retailers globally from the Afterpay Shop Directory, based on Afterpay data in December 2020.

Afterpay Favorites Afterpay customers will also be able to utilize the newly launched “Favorites” feature this Afterpay Day. Located within the Afterpay app, shoppers can browse their most-wanted items and add

them to their Favorites to revisit at a later date. Launched earlier this year, the “Favorites” feature has already been used by nearly 40% of US app users, based on March 2021 Afterpay figures.

Melissa Davis, head of North America at Afterpay said: “This season’s Afterpay Day is bigger and better than ever. We have extended our sale to physical retail, doubled the number of sale days and, most importantly, we have more than doubled the amount of merchants who are offering incredible deals and promotions to their shoppers. We are proud to deliver this incredibly popular event

just as retailers welcome their customers back to their stores for Spring shopping.”

Consumers can visit the Shop Directory on the Afterpay app and Afterpay.com to access these promotions and discounts from thousands of participating merchants. Afterpay’s app also allows customers to locate participating store locations near them. The sales begin at 12:00am PST on Thursday, March 25, 2021 and run for four days ending at 11:59 pm PST on Sunday, March 28, 2021.

For more information about Afterpay, visit http:// afterpay.com

Foot Locker Names Melody Ehsani Creative Director of Women’s Business Renowned designer to debut custom women-centric capsule collections Foot Locker recently named Melody Ehsani Creative Director of their women’s business.

She will be leveraging her new position to amplify the Foot Locker brand to the female consumer as a leader in the streetwear world through content and product development.

As Creative Director, Ehsani will design quarterly apparel capsule collections as well as curate an on-going selection of Nike and Jordan products.

The first capsule collection will be available Summer of 2021 in-stores and online at Foot Locker across the United States and Canada, as well as select doors in Europe and Asia Pacific.

The LA designer is the visionary and entrepreneur behind ME. – a streetwear brand specializing in jewelry, footwear and clothing with a message that has changed the landscape of accessible womenswear.

Ehsani has built a unique brand that meets at the intersection of streetwear culture and activism. She has previously collaborated with former First Lady Michelle Obama, Lauryn Hill, Wu-Tang Clan and more.

In December 2020, Ehsani designed an ex-

AS CREATIVE DIRECTOR, EHSANI WILL DESIGN QUARTERLY APPAREL CAPSULE COLLECTIONS AS WELL AS CURATE AN ON-GOING SELECTION OF NIKE AND JORDAN PRODUCTS. clusive capsule collection of basketball-inspired items for Foot Locker’s “12 Days of Greatness” holiday campaign. Now, Foot Locker is giving Ehsani a long-term platform to reach consumers across the world while expressing herself and her brand’s purpose through custom capsule collections.

“Melody Ehsani brings authenticity and years of creative leadership to the industry,” said Patricia Respress, vice president and DMM women’s footwear and apparel at Foot Locker.

“Her diverse background of streetwear knowledge will help elevate our brand and expand our product offering, while driving real cultural impact within our women’s community.”

Ehsani, who is known for her socially

Foot Locker Names Melody Ehsani Creative Director of Women’s Business

responsive approach to streetwear and her work ethic, will be the driving force behind her designs.

“Growing up, Foot Locker stores were a staple of my cultural landscape. I am truly honored to become the first Creative Director for Foot Locker’s women’s business and for the opportunity to help shape and build upon the impact of their brand on a global scale. I look forward to bringing my set of experiences to the table - not just as a designer, but as a longtime customer,” stated Ehsani.

To expand their close connections to the communities of New York City and Los Ange-

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les and make the collections more accessible to consumers across the country, a digital crowd-sourcing program will solicit consumer feedback to determine where a Melody Ehsani x Foot Locker pop-up shop will arrive. These pop-ups will open a week in advance of the capsule being available, giving the selected city a chance to experience and shop the collection before the rest of the world.

For more information and to stay up to date on the exclusive capsule collection drops and pop-up shops, visit https://www.footlocker. com/melodyehsani and follow @footlockerwomen and @MelodyEhsani.

6 | CITIZEN | Hyde Park | Week of March 24, 2021

NEWS

Celebrating Women’s History Month Pandora LIVE Powered By Women Featuring Gwen Stefani & Jazmine Sullivan Pandora Rev recently announced that it will celebrate Women’s History Month with a special virtual event, Pandora LIVE Powered By Women, featuring performances by Gwen Stefani and Jazmine Sullivan. Hoda Kotb from SiriusXM’s TODAY Show Radio (ch.108) will host the evening and be joined by the performers as well as special guests Lauren Aliana and Becky G. for a roundtable discussion focused on the themes of the holiday. Pandora LIVE Powered By Women will take place on March 30 at 9 PM ET / 6 PM PT, and listeners can RSVP for free at https:// pandoralivepoweredbywomen. splashthat.com/PR “Now more than ever, women are breaking barriers and changing the world for the better” said Denise Karkos, chief marketing officer. “I’m thrilled that Pandora is able to bring together a diverse range of female artists from various genres to tell their stories.”

To honor Women’s History Month,

which highlights the contributions of women to events in history and contemporary society, Hoda Kotb will engage the roundtable for their thoughts on groundbreaking moments in their lives, how women are challenging industry norms, why it’s essential for women to tell their own stories, teaching others about equality, and more.

Listeners can get into the spirit leading up to the event with Pandora Live Powered by Women, a new station presented by CarMax and hosted by Hoda Kotb that celebrates some of the most talented women in the industry. After the show, the station will be updated to include live performance tracks from the event.

Gwen Stefani is a three-time GRAMMY® Award winner and has achieved global success as a performer, songwriter, and frontwoman of No Doubt and a multi-platinum solo artist, among other accomplishments. Gwen’s Pandora LIVE performance from Los Angeles

will include fan favorites and a mix of new tracks, including “Let Me Reintroduce Myself ” and her current single “Slow Clap.”

Jazmine Sullivan has been making headlines of late with her performance of the National Anthem at Super Bowl LV, her recent project Heaux Tales that was a New York Times critic’s pick and now for Pandora LIVE. The Philadelphia native will perform in her hometown’s The Fillmore.

Global superstar Becky G is a multi-platinum, award-winning singer, songwriter and actress whose music fuses pop, Latin, urban and rap. Lauren Alaina is one of the hottest rising female artists in country music earning accolades for her powerhouse vocals and her three No. 1 hit singles. Both women will bring their unique perspectives from their respective genres to the roundtable discussion.

Event sponsors will enhance the viewing experience by curating

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unique content and activities that bring the Women’s History Month celebration to life. Nike will set the tone by featuring its latest anthem, We Play Real, which celebrates the strength and impact Black women have had on the world and encourages audiences to level the playing field for Black women. Cisco will provide a limited amount of exclusive artist merchandise for attendees on a firstcome, first-served code redemption basis. National University will invite fans to test their knowledge of empowering, female musicians with pre-show interactive trivia.

Throughout the event, fans will have the opportunity to connect with others via the interactive chat as well as snap a selfie in the virtual photo booth. After the show, some of Gwen Stefani’s top listeners on Pandora will have the opportunity to participate in a virtual meet and greet.

Pandora LIVE is the continuation of the popular live event turned virtual series that features top artists

Jazmine Sullivan singing live at a concert in Columbia, SC on August 7, 2008.

from all genres, including country, rock, pop, R&B and more. The celebration continues the day after as SiriusXM will be re-airing portions of the event. Selections from Gwen’s performance and commentary can be heard on Pop Rocks (ch. 12) and The Blend (ch. 16), while Heart & Soul (ch. 48) and The Heat (ch. 46) will re-air Jazmine’s performance.

CITIZEN | Hyde Park | Week of March 24, 2021

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NEWS

Proactive Health Tips to Help Navigate Year 2 of the Pandemic Family Features - After months of unfamiliar restrictions and guidelines, pandemic fatigue is affecting how some Americans protect their health.

However, experts warn that diligence is still extremely important because new mutations and variants of the virus that causes COVID-19 are being discovered.

The typical cold and flu season also brings added threats to people’s health and wellness.

“Staying diligent is one of the most important things we can do as we navigate through cold and flu season as well as the COVID pandemic,” said family medicine physician Dr. Jennifer Caudle.

Though you may still be spending more time at home, it’s important to take proactive steps to maintain your health. Caudle offers these practical tips to help protect your health while you’re waiting for vaccination eligibility amid the pandemic this cold and flu season.

Avoid Exposure As COVID-19 continues to impact communities from coast to coast, there’s no better time to avoid getting sick.

Even if you catch a less serious illness like a cold or the flu, health care professionals in many areas are stretched thin. What’s more, getting sick could

compromise your immune system, making you more susceptible to a more serious infection.

Minimizing your risk of exposure means limiting close contact with others outside your household, wearing a mask and washing your hands regularly with soap for at least 20 seconds. An alcohol-based sanitizer that is at least 60% alcohol can substitute for hand washing, if necessary.

Always avoid touching your face when out and about, and when possible, avoid high-touch surfaces like door handles and light switches. If you’re prone to allergies, be conscious of what triggers allergic reactions and manage your allergies so you’re able to easily identify any new symptoms that may not be allergy related.

Practice Self-Care Staying healthy isn’t just about avoiding germs. Managing your physical health means keeping your body in top condition by eating right, exercising, getting enough sleep and ditching habits that can negatively impact your body, like smoking and excess drinking. It’s also important to monitor your mental health since factors like stress and depression can take a physical toll that

impacts your body’s immune response.

Pinpoint Symptoms If you get sick, it’s important to pay close attention to your symptoms. However, this cold and flu season brings a unique variable with the possibility that your symptoms may actually stem from a mild case of COVID-19. Weather may also fuel stronger than usual allergy responses, so distinguishing between cold, flu, COVID-19 and allergy symptoms can be especially tricky. Testing may be necessary to get the proper diagnosis and ensure you’re taking the right precautions to prevent the spread of any infection. If you have questions or concerns about your symptoms or about COVID-19, consult your health care professional.

Treat Symptoms Depending on your diagnosis, a health care professional may suggest medication to help treat symptoms until your illness runs its course. There are a variety of products available over the counter that are commonly used to treat symptoms of respiratory viral infections. Many provide relief from multiple symptoms in a single dose. For example, an option like Mucinex DM lasts 12 hours when used as directed

VIRTUAL

IN-PERSON

HYBRID

and contains dextromethorphan, which helps to control cough, and guaifenesin to help thin and loosen mucus.

Control a Pesky Cough How long a cough lasts depends on its cause, but you may be able to tame the symptoms until it’s gone.

Eat Right * Produce is packed with vitamin C, a nutrient that helps support your immune system. * Menthol may be a soothing natural remedy. It’s one of the compounds that gives mint its flavor, so brew a cup of strong mint tea and put it to the test.

Steam and Hydration * Both steam and water help thin your mucus, which may help clear chest congestion. Try a warm, steamy shower or a soak in a hot tub and drink plenty of fluids to keep your body hydrated.

Around the House * If you’re struggling with a parched throat from your cough, try gargling salt water to soothe discomfort. * Lozenges increase your saliva production to help soothe a parched throat and get you feeling better as your cough subsides. * Exposure to particulates in the air, like pollutants and irritants, may be

linked to nighttime dry coughing. A high-efficiency particulate air filter can help remove them. * Wipe down surfaces. Cleaning removes settled dust and pollen while disinfection can help remove lingering cold and flu germs. * If you’re smoking, stop. Smoking is a leading cause of chronic cough. Also avoid secondhand smoke as much as possible. * Rest recharges your immune system, and getting enough sleep may help you cope with an illness that is the cause of a lingering cough. An option like Mucinex Fast-Max All-In-One Cold & Flu relieves nine symptoms including cough, stuffy nose, sore throat, fever and headache so you can get on with your day. * Rely on a cough medication that contains dextromethorphan, which works on the cough center of your brain to help suppress coughing.

You can identify the right formula to provide relief based on symptoms you are experiencing by using the online tool at Mucinex.com, where you can also find more information regarding self-care remedies.

SOURCE: Mucinex

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8 | CITIZEN | Hyde Park | Week of March 24, 2021

ENTERTAINMENT

The Big Pitch Returns: BIPOC Filmmaker Competition Now Open for Submissions TLG Motion Pictures (“Hoarders”), founded by American film and television producer Courtney LeMarco, recently announced it will begin accepting submissions for The Big Pitch, a now national, quarterly competition providing opportunity for Black, Indigenous, and people of color (BIPOC) with a strong interest in film, production, and content creation.

Previously only open to aspiring BIPOC filmmakers in Seattle, this is the first time The Big Pitch will be accepting submissions on a national level. Now through March 31, eligible individuals may submit their television or film concept for an opportunity to win a $20,000 Service Grant toward the development of their project, as well as other professional support to bring their film, series or short to fruition. Additional updates to The Big Pitch include the opportunity for applicants to submit short film concepts for the first time.

“We created this competition with the hope of uplifting young creatives who otherwise would be presented with very few opportu-

nities in Hollywood,” says LeMarco. “What was once a local Seattle competition has now grown into a powerful opportunity for BIPOC filmmakers nationwide.”

Last year’s winner of The Big Pitch was 25-year-old Mexican-American filmmaker Crisantos Chavez of Tacoma, Washington. His film “PRIV-I-LEGE” followed the story of a 13-year-old boy who gets a crash-course in privilege after transferring from a prestigious school to the lowest-performing middle school in the country. However, Chavez’s was just one of many impressive submissions from last year’s competition.

Nine additional finalists were also selected to pitch their project to top Hollywood executive producers.

To enter The Big Pitch, eligible individuals are asked to submit a one-sheet pitch detailing their television or film concept to bigpitch@tlgmotionpictures.com. A script, reference images, and comparable movie or television examples are also encouraged, though not required.

For more information, please visit https://www.tlgmotionpictures.com/thebigpitch.

TLG Motion Pictures

Bilingual Children’s Book First of its Kind Some of them are well known and iconic, and others are lesser known, but all of the women highlighted in Little Giants: 10 Hispanic Women Who Made History fought for the rights of those who had no voice.

Author Raynelda A. Calderon, a native of the Dominican Republic, works as a public librarian. In the introduction to the book, Ms. Calderon describes her attempts to find a children’s anthology about the lives of notable Hispanic women who impacted Latin America. In finding nothing of the sort, she decided to take on the project of writing one herself.

Her desire for such a book to exist is twofold: firstly, to tell the largely untold stories of Latin American women without whom, she says in the book’s introduction, Latin America would not be the free and rich continent it is today; secondly, to inspire young readers to follow their passions and to never take “no” for an

Litle Giants: 10 Hispanic Women Who Made History

answer. The author describes Little Giants aim: “to motivate and inspire our children today to accomplish great things tomorrow, based on the example of role models of past and present.”

Included in this anthology are the stories of Cuban native Alicia Alonso, who beat the odds and overcame barriers to become a world-famous ballerina; Dolores Cacuango, an indigenous native of Ecuador who fought against the injustice and mistreatment of her people; and Elvia Carrillo Puerto, who secured women’s right to vote in Mexico. Little Giants also teaches children key Spanish definitions and suggested activities. Written for children aged eight to twelve, this book includes beautiful illustrations that help bring these inspiring women to life.

The book is available in hardcover and paperback. For more information you can visit www.cayenapress.org.

www.citizennewspapergroup.com

NFL Hires First Black Woman Referee

BY STACY M. BROWN NNPA Newswire Senior National Correspondent @StacyBrownMedia

Maia Chaka knows well that Women’s History Month is all about commemorating, observing, and celebrating the vital role of the fairer sex in American folklore.

She just didn’t know she would become a part of that history.

After years of officiating games in the Pac-12, Conference USA, and the NFL’s Officiating Development Program, Chaka will head to the NFL in the Fall.

When she takes the field in September, the Norfolk State University graduate and health and physical education teacher will do so as the first Black woman to work as a referee in the NFL. She’ll also be just the second woman to wear the zebra stripes. Sarah Thomas, who worked last month’s Super Bowl, is the other.

“This is a funny thing. I was actually at home, and I was playing NBA2K with my nephew online because that’s what I like to do at night,” Chaka told NNPA Newswire just hours after an appearance on NBC’s “Today” show.

“Then, I received a phone call at around 9:15 p.m.

[March 4], and I just dropped everything I was doing.

The next thing I know, I’m getting told ‘welcome to the National Football League,’” Chaka exclaimed.

Did she think it was for real?

“I just jumped up and threw everything off my lap. I thought I was being punked because I didn’t believe it at the time. But it was true,” she remarked.

Troy Vincent, an African American and the NFL’s second-in-command behind Commissioner Roger Goodell, celebrated Chaka’s appointment.

“Maia’s years of hard work, dedication, and perseverance – including as par to the NFL Officiating Development Program – have earned her a position as an NFL official,” Vincent declared.

“As we celebrate Women’s History Month, Maia is a trailblazer as the first Black female official and inspires us toward normalizing women on the football field,” Vincent concluded.

Chaka told NNPA Newswire that she expects coaches and players to treat her the same as any other official.

“I think the coaches just want a good official who is going to get the play right,” Chaka stated. “And I think they just want consistency. I hope they do not hold us to a different standard [than men] because we are all officials at the end of the day. It does not matter what gender we are. We are all wearing the same uniform.”

The importance of her historic promotion isn’t lost on Chaka.

“It’s an honor to join the National Football League, commented Chaka, who works with at-risk girls in Virginia.

“I just want young girls of color – young women – to know that if you have a drive for something, don’t let anything hold you back just because you think something may give you some limitations. Work hard and follow your dreams.”

Her promotion to the big league also demonstrates to women of color that they can work and succeed in a male-dominated field, Chaka said.

“As long as you put in the work and you are fundamentally sound in anything that you do, you know you will reach your goal,” Chaka offered.

“I think it’s important that they see the representation in these fields.”

Asked if she would switch from playing NBA2K with her nephew and challenge him to Madden Football, Chaka demurred.

“No, he couldn’t handle me on Madden,” she retorted.

CITIZEN | Hyde Park | Week of March 24, 2021

NEWS

Walgreens Expressions Challenge Provides Outlet for Teens Dealing with COVID-19 and Other Mental Stresses Program encourages teens to use creative expression as a means for coping with challenging situations Expressions Challenge, please visit the website at www.expressionschallenge.com. The Expressions Challenge is not open to Walgreens employees or teens of Walgreens employees.

Walgreens believes in supporting and giving back to the communities it serves. In particular, the company has a longstanding commitment to programs that empower youth and help them reach their full potential.

The Expressions Challenge is just one of Walgreens many impactful Corporate Social Responsibility initiatives. You can read more about Walgreens work with communities and young people on the CSR page of Walgreens Boots Alliance.

Jordan Divers-Graduations

More than 10 years ago Walgreens launched its first Expressions Challenge program to encourage teens to use creative arts as an outlet to manage some of life’s stressful circumstances and to guide students to make better life choices.

Offered only in Chicago and St. Louis, Walgreens worked with high school districts, teachers and guidance counselors to promote the contest to students grades 9-12.

This year, for the first time ever, Expressions is being offered nationally. Submissions are being accepted now through March 31, with 12 winners from three categories to be awarded $2,000 each. Winners will be selected and announced in May 2021.

Formed in 2009, the Expressions Challenge is a creative arts competiton in three categories, including visual arts, video production, and spoken word.

Teens are guided to use time spent working on their creations as outlets for expressing difficulties they are facing. Students’ finished works often address a range of issues from bullying and self-image, to the rapid spread of HIV. Teens today still face these circumstances and more, and for many, their anxieties are compounded by the effects of COVID-19.

Expressions was created for moments like these. Our country is dealing with the weight of a pandemic that has been so challenging that one can only imagine how young people must feel. Every year, Expressions proves to be more rewarding than the previous year, and Walgreens is pleased to extend this support to teens at a time when our nation could use more compassion and healing,” said John Standley, president, Walgreens.

This year the program includes a Specialty Award category for submissions that explore the impact of COVID-19. The lucky winner of this category will receive $1,000 for the best entry that addresses the effects of the pandemic and the importance of getting vaccinated.

Coordinators for the Expressions Challenge program will interact with schools and students virtually through planned digital and social engagements.

For more information and details about how to enter the

ABOUT WALGREENS EXPRESSIONS

Expressions (expressionschallenge.com) is a platform established by Walgreens to educate, empower and equip young people and their communities with insights and resources on issues impacting teens. Since 2009, Walgreens has given away over $350,000 in awards and reached more than one million students with a message of support and youth empowerment. While the students create their own unique expressions, the teachers and parents are really the backbone to this initiative. More than 500 organizations, high schools, teachers and parents have participated in the program since its inception.

ABOUT WALGREENS

Walgreens (www.walgreens.com) is included in the Retail Pharmacy USA Division of Walgreens Boots Alliance, Inc. (Nasdaq: WBA), a global leader in retail and wholesale pharmacy. As America’s most loved pharmacy, health and beauty company, Walgreens purpose is to champion the health and wellbeing of every community in America.

Operating more than 9,000 retail locations across America, Puerto Rico and the U.S.

Virgin Islands, Walgreens is proud to be a neighborhood health destination serving approximately 8 million customers each day. Walgreens pharmacists play a critical role in the U.S. healthcare system by providing a wide range of pharmacy and healthcare services. To best meet the needs of customers and patients, Walgreens offers a true omnichannel experience, with platforms bringing together physical and digital, supported by the latest technology to deliver high-quality products and services in local communities nationwide.

Armoni Pierce-Growth-Little Pearl Academy www.citizennewspapergroup.com

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10 | CITIZEN | Hyde Park | Week of March 24, 2021

HOME

Creating a naturally healthy home (BPT) - The pandemic has changed the way many of us think and feel about home. More than ever, it has become a place of refuge, safety and comfort in an uncertain world. The need for our dwellings to be sources of both physical and emotional well-being has never been stronger. Architects and designers looking to maximize the unique and personal qualities of a residence - the subtle factors that turn it from a house into a home - have long recognized that specifying wood offers a natural means of achieving that goal. Now COVID-19 is making that strategy even more attractive to savvy homeowners.

"We hear it from professionals and consumers alike: Today, families want an especially cocooning home environment," says Linda Jovanovich, of the American Hardwood Information Center. "Wood is an inherently warm and characterful material that engenders feelings of reliability and familiarity in us. But along with that tried-and-true aspect, hardwood also offers a wide range of different looks and design possibilities, so there's always an element of uniqueness and personalization whenever it's used."

The kitchen is often called "the heart of the home" - a gathering place that provides sustenance through food and the companionship of friends and family - making it an ideal space in which to put wood's authentic natural powers to work. Replacing tired old cabinets with stylish hardwood ones is a good starting point, as shown in the makeover of a 1920s Bungalow house kitchen where a classic American hardwood - quarter-sawn white oak - is used for all the new millwork and flooring. The floorboards are lightly white-washed to create the look of bare wood; the base cabinets, supplied by Plain & Fancy Custom Cabinetry, get a slightly darker cerused finish to distinguish them from the rest of the woodwork. The wall cabinets are painted white to match the kitchen's shiplap ceiling. "It's peaceful rather than exciting," notes the homeowner. "And that's exactly what we wanted."

Without doubt, a good part of wood's appeal is due to the fact that, like us, each piece of timber is unique - its color, texture and grain are as individual as a human personality, so we keep discovering new aspects of its beauty and versatility to delight in. "But there are other good reasons why being surrounded with hardwood makes us feel good," Jovanovich points out. "It is exactly the kind of material that today's environmentally conscious consumer demands: One that's renewable, sustainable, plentiful, durable and easy to work with - all of which makes it an excellent return on investment, too." And that feeling of well-being is not just in our minds or pocketbooks: Wood is healthy, it doesn't harbor dust and

other allergens, and it gives off almost no VOCs in its natural state. And what could be more reassuring than that?

Visit www.hardwoodinfo.com for more about the uses and benefits of American hardwoods.

5 ways technology can make home maintenance easier ( BPT) - Even if you're not the tech savviest person, you probably already use some technology to make your life easier, from your smartphone giving you directions to a digital calendar that keeps track of appointments. Today's technology has made staying on top of many tasks a whole lot easier.

If you're interested in exploring more ways to make your busy life a little less complicated, here are some ideas to get you started on automating essential household tasks.

1. Take advantage of subscription services From HVAC filters to batteries or other products you need for your home on a regular basis, see if your preferred vendor now offers a subscription service. You can set up how frequently you want the items delivered, and most will allow you to adjust the frequency of delivery over time.

And there's a bonus: Most vendors offer discounts for anyone signing up for a subscription service.

2. Use a smart app to monitor appliances like your water softener How do you remember when to refill your water softener with salt? Most people don't think about it until the dishes get spotty or the laundry comes out stiff and scratchy. Then suddenly you're arranging a special trip to get more salt.

Those last-minute trips to buy salt are a thing of the past with the Connected Salt Level Sensor and the Pentair Home app. A simple Wi-Fi-enabled device clips easily into your softener's brine tank and monitors your salt level. When salt starts to run low, it sends alerts to your smart device, so you can buy salt when it's convenient for you - not when it feels like an emergency.

With life being super busy, it's nice to have to think of one less thing, like refilling the salt in your water softener. Learn more about how the Connected Salt Level Sensor works at Pentair.com.

3. Use your digital calendar for home reminders Similar to keeping up with your water softener's salt level, it can be hard to remember when to check your smoke detector's batteries, when to have your gutters cleaned, or other annual or semi-annual maintenance chores.

Make full use of your digital calendar by inputting all these items on a recurring basis, so you'll never forget about one of these crucial tasks again. It can give you peace of mind knowing you're up to date on any and all important safety and maintenance tasks.

4. Learn to use programmable features From your smart thermostat to programmable lights or a security system, once you've learned how to use them, you'll appreciate their benefits.

Programming your thermostat to keep your home's temperature on an even keel - lowering it at night and when you're away will save both money and energy, helping your wallet and the environment. If you "set it and forget it," you'll eliminate family squabbles about turning the heat or air conditioning up and down.

And if you can program your lights and security system to help protect your home, especially when you can't be there, you'll have even more peace of mind.

5. Upgrade to a smart appliance Next time you need a new appliance, take a look at recent smart technology innovations. From laundry you can monitor on your phone while you're away from home to ovens you can preheat from anywhere or refrigerators that can adjust temperatures via your phone or even keep inventory for you, the latest connected appliances may have you relying on tech to make every aspect of your life simpler.

Embracing technology can be a plus for your daily life, especially if you learn to use tools that are the most helpful to you.

Smart apps can not only simplify that endless "to do" list - making sure you never forget anything important - but can also help your house stay safer, cleaner and healthier for your entire family.

www.citizennewspapergroup.com

CITIZEN | Hyde Park | Week of March 24, 2021

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11

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SERVICE REASSEMBLE EDUCATION & TRAINING Seeking recovery? Seeking work? We offer FREE addiction recovery, FREE employment readiness and FREE Skills training, and referrals to UFC/CTA 2nd Chance Program. Call 773-488-9770 or visit www.retinc.org. (For UFC/CTA, call Keith Lewis (773) 881-1711, etc. 1191) _____________________________________

Notice is herby 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: Y21006155 on March 4, 2021. Under the Assumed business Name of GET-A-BIT-OF IT with the business located at: 6934 SOUTH CRANDON AVENUE, CHICAGO, ILLINOIS 60649. The true and real full name (s) and residence address of the owner (s) /partner (s) is: Owner/Partner Full Name: ANTHONY J. WILLIAMS Complete Address: 6934 SOUTH CRANDON AVE., CHICAGO, ILLINOIS 60649,USA. _______________________________________ Notice is herby 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: Y21006155 on March 4, 2021. Under the Assumed business Name of GET-A-BIT-OF IT with the business located at: 6934 SOUTH CRANDON AVENUE, CHICAGO, ILLINOIS 60649. The true and real full name (s) and residence address of the owner (s) /partner (s) is: Owner/Partner Full Name: GET-A-BIT OF IT Complete Address: 6934 SOUTH CRANDON AVE., CHICAGO, ILLINOIS 60649,USA. _______________________________________ 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: Y21006079 on FEBRUARY 24, 2021. Under the Assumed Business Name of MAURESHPRECISECUTS INTERPRISES with the business located at: 7143 EAST END, CHICAGO, ILLINOIS 60649. The true and real full names (s) and residence address of the owner (s) / partners (s) is: Owner/Partner Full Name Complete Address OMAR AKHIR BEY 7143 S. EAST END, CHICAGO, IL 60649, USA _______________________________________

PUBLIC NOTICE PRIVATE FOUNDATION ANNUAL NOTICE The annual report of the BENJAMIN F. & ERNESTINE BURTON FOUNDATION Is available at the address noted below, for inspection during normal business hours, by any Citizen who so requests within 180 days after the publication of this notice of its availability BENJAMIN F. & ERNESTINE BURTON 15754 Chimney Rock Tr. Woodbridge, VA. 22193 Alice S. Walker, Pres. 708-363-4945. ______________________________________

RENTERS INSURANCE Renters Insuance provides cash when you need it the most, due to a loss of your household items. It provides cash to replace your funiture, clothes and food. As a result of loss of power you can receive cash for hotels and transportation. Insurance policies start at $18.75 per month. For more informatioin call George Trent at (773) 640-8357. ______________________________________

LIVING 5 Ways to Use Your Spring Break Wisely (StatePoint) With certain travel options difficult to execute this year, you may find yourself staying put for spring break. But you don’t need to idle away the time. Here are five ways to use the vacation wisely: 1. Volunteer. From delivering food to the homebound to organizing a park clean-up, there are many socially-distanced community service project ideas perfect for spring break. You can even volunteer from the safety of home, as many organizations around the globe are making it possible to lend a hand virtually.

2. Keep math skills sharp. Whether you are preparing for AP Testing or simply want to hone your skills for the last few months of the academic year, use great tools like the fx9750GII Graphing Calculator from Casio. Beyond standard graphing calculator functionality, it allows you to take your learning to the next level with its advanced statistics functions, such as test, interval and distribution, and financial calculation functions. Pair your studies with the webinars available on Casio’s YouTube channel.

3. Read a book for fun. Demanding academic schedules can keep students occupied 24/7.

Now is the time to finally crack open that novel on your bedside table.

4. Learn a musical instrument. If you’ve ever wanted to learn an instrument, the downtime of spring break is a great time to give it a go. One way to fast-track your progress is with a keyboard designed to help novices get started, like the line of Casiotone keyboards, which feature built-in learning systems. And because they are portable, you can even enjoy spring weather and take the learning outdoors.

5. Get some sun: Go on a run. Pack a picnic and enjoy it on the lawn. Take a short day trip to a state park. You don’t need to travel to spend your spring break under the sun.

Your spring break may not look like it did during previous years. However, there are plenty of ways to make the most of the time. ____________________________________

EDUCATION The Digital Learning Tools Making Remote-Learning Easier on Everyone (StatePoint) The past year has demonstrated the importance of digital learning. And thanks to a variety of tools and resources that helped make remote instruction a little less stressful on everyone, teachers, students and parents quickly adapted to the changes brought on by the pandemic.

Music Music has been a particularly difficult subject to provide instruction for at a distance. However, educational foundations have risen to the occasion by creating a trove of resources to aid learning. For example, the Save the Music Foundation provides free activities for families, tools for educators to create their own online tutorials and more.

Mathematics Remote learning has only added new challenges to an already difficult subject. The good news is that online tools are helping fill the gaps created by the new normal. Check out the Casio Cares education site, which is chock full of free math resources for students, parents and educators. Tools include emulator calculator software, curriculum support materials, live webinars and remotely-delivered teacher training. Plus, Casio’s free all-in-one web-based mathematics software, ClassPad.net, which is geared for K-12 and beyond, delivers an accessible, interactive and personalized approach to mathematics. Its functions include graphing, geometry, calculation, statistics and more.

In addition to online activities and video tutorials, Casio also offers a weekly educational webinar series focused on mathematics on its YouTube channel, covering such subjects as elementary and middle school math, algebra I and II, geometry, pre-calculus, calculus and statistics. All webinars are recorded and can be accessed any time.

Creative Writing English and creative writing teachers are turning to new platforms to help build their student’s writing skills in a variety of creative genres. One example is Storybird, which features hundreds of courses and challenges. If your child’s teachers haven’t caught onto the trend, no worries, parents can also sign up for an account for their children.

Even after classrooms reopen nationwide, one thing is certain, with so many amazing resources available to help educators teach and students learn, digital learning tools are here to stay. ____________________________________

Darrell Garth

President /Publisher

Janice Garth

Sales Manager General Manager

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12 | CITIZEN | Hyde Park | Week of March 24, 2021