HYDE PARK CITIZEN 12-01-2021

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 Dec. 1, 2021

| Vol. 33 | No. 2 | www.citizennewspapergroup.com

HYDE PARK

THE MUSEUM OF SCIENCE AND INDUSTRY USHERS IN THE HOLIDAY SEASON WITH TREE LIGHTING

Most of Sheila Wesonga’s life when she attended Museum of Science and Industry’s Christmas Around the World, there was an Kenyan Tree. In the 2010’s, there wasn’t a Kenyan tree at the Museum anymore. A friend encouraged her to bring the tree back, since she loves Christmas and loves decorating for Christmas.

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Sheila Wesonga, along with African Americans and Kenyans, decorated the Kenyan tree for the Museum of Science and Industry’s Christmas Around the World and Holidays of Light display. Photos by Tia Carol Jones

BUSINESS: Victor George Vodka Owner Awarded $2.4 Million

FASHION: H&M USA Presents The “Buy From A Black Woman Holiday Market”

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NEWS briefly CITY OF CHICAGO ANNOUNCES RETURN OF THE KATHY OSTERMAN AWARDS CHICAGO – Mayor Lori E. Lightfoot today announced the return of the Kathy Osterman Awards, which will recognize City Employees across various departments who exceeded expectations during the COVID-19 pandemic. The award luncheon, the first since 2014, will honor employees who demonstrated integrity, innovation, leadership, teamwork, mentorship, and compassion during the city’s response to COVID-19. Ten winners and 20 finalists will be selected and announced during the awards ceremony luncheon on Tuesday, December 7, 2021. The Kathy Osterman Awards are made possible through the work of the One Chicago Fund with generous support from Motorola Solutions.

“As the year comes to an end, The City of Chicago is ready to move forward, but not without acknowledging all the arduous work City employees have devoted to our communities and serving our City, with respect and care, regardless of the pandemic,” said Mayor Lori Lightfoot.

“This year, we are pleased to announce the return of the Kathy Osterman Award luncheon to honor City employees who have demonstrated their hard work and compassion during COVID-19. Together we can continue to be a part of a recovery for all Chicagoans and rebuild and improve Chicago.”

Kathy Osterman was considered a dynamic Aldermanic figure who was fully invested in communities across Chicago. She fiercely advocated for the passage of Chicago’s Human Rights Ordinance in 1988. After two years as an Alderman, she retired and was subsequently appointed by Mayor Richard M. Daley as the Director of the Mayor’s Office of Special Events. In that role, she administered an agency that brought millions of dollars into the local economy each year and had responsibility for the city’s major music festivals, neighborhood festivals, and the Taste of Chicago, the second-largest tourist attraction in Illinois.

An ebullient, optimistic, dynamic individual, Kathy Osterman died of cancer in 1992 but left a legacy of commitment to public service and human rights advocacy. The City’s public service awards were renamed for her in honor of her legacy.

GOV. PRITZKER SIGNS CONGRESSIONAL MAPS THAT PRESERVE MINORITY REPRESENTATION SPRINGFIELD — After reviewing the General Assembly’s congressional maps drawn with 2020 U.S. Census data, Governor JB Pritzker signed the new U.S. House district map that reflects Illinois’ diversity and preserves minority representation in Illinois’ delegation in accordance with the federal Voting Rights Act. “These maps align with the landmark Voting Rights Act and will ensure all communities are equitably represented in our congressional delegation,” said Governor JB Pritzker.

A landmark achievement of the civil rights movement, the Voting Rights Act prohibits practices and procedures that discriminate on the basis of race, color or membership in a protected language minority group. Building on and strengthening that consequential law, the Illinois Voting Rights Act of 2011 ensures redistricting plans are crafted in a way that preserves clusters of minority voters if they are of size or cohesion to exert collective electoral power. The maps signed into law today meet those requirements by creating a second district of significant Latinx representation that reflects the community’s rapid growth on the west side of Chicago.

The district boundaries also account for population changes in the state, particularly in the regions that saw the most population loss as recorded by 2020 U.S. Census.

The Illinois Congressional Redistricting Act of 2021 (HB 1291) takes effect immediately.

The Museum of Science and Industry ushers in the holiday season with tree lighting Continued from page 1

BY TIA CAROL JONES

Most of Sheila Wesonga’s life when she attended Museum of Science and Industry’s Christmas Around the World, there was an Kenyan Tree.

In the 2010’s, there wasn’t a Kenyan tree at the Museum anymore. A friend encouraged her to bring the tree back, since she loves Christmas and loves decorating for Christmas.

Wesonga has been married to a Kenyan for 35 years and has been decorating the Kenyan tree for seven years. The tree is decorated with artifacts from Kenya. It includes homemade gifts Kenyan children and young adults receive, sandals, combs, jewelry, toys and dolls.

The Museum of Science and Industry, located at 5700 S. Lake Shore Drive, celebrated the holiday season with the lighting of the grand tree in the Rotunda recently. The Kenyan Tree is just one of the trees on display as part of the Christmas Around the World and Holidays of Light, which showcases customs from more than 50 countries.

Wesonga said that the tree is not really a Christmas tree are not traditional in Kenyan.

People do get together with family at that time, going back to their rural ancestral homes to see friends and families.

There is a lot of cooking, eating and celebration at that time. The gifts that are given are very sentimental.

“I just wanted people to understand some of the Kenyan culture, and understand while they don’t get snow, and there is rarely an actual Christmas tree decorated, this represents some of the gift giving,” she said.

To say Merry Christmas in Swahili, one would say Krismasi Njema. The tree, which is decorated by Kenyans and African Americans, took about three hours this year.

People wanted to make sure every aspect was displayed and not just hung, the doll’s faces were visible and the

The Grand Tree at the Museum of Science and Industry sits in the rotunda of the museum as part of its Christmas Around the World and Holidays of Light exhibit. Photos by Tia Carol Jones

masks on the tree were in prominent positions.

Wesonga said it feels glorious to be able to represent and decorate the Kenyan tree.

The material at the base of the tree was given to her by her mother-in-law. It is special to give material to a young woman because it shows their love for the person they are giving it to.

It was the first tree lighting for the Museum of Science and Industry’s President Chevy Humphrey.

“I am so incredibly

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humbled and my heart is so warmed to be here because this is such an incredible time.

We’ve gone through so much, with COVID, and now we’re able to gather and be together, in a safe, physical distance way, but just to celebrate the holidays together. This is just so special and its special to me and you’ll see every guest here today. It’s good to be together,” Humphrey said.

In addition to Christmas Around the World and Holiday of Lights, the Museum will have different program-

ming. Humphrey said there will also be a lot of surprises.

Humphrey understands the importance of the Museum and what it means not only to the community but all over the world. She also knows how much joy a tradition like Christmas Around the World brings to the guests.

“It represents who we are as a Museum and we need to keep it that way. There’s a big responsibility I have as a leader to continue that. I’m just humbled and honored to be here,” she said.

CITIZEN | Hyde Park | Week of Dec. 1, 2021

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NEWS

CODE (RED) Empowers People To Shop, Give And Game To Fight COVID-19 NEW YORK PRNewswire -- (RED), the global pandemic fighting organization co-founded by Bono and Bobby Shriver, is marking its 15th anniversary year by partnering with collaborators and industry leaders in gaming, financial services and retail to call a CODE (RED) on COVID-19, a first of its kind campaign to raise money to support urgent and equitable access to COVID relief in response to the devastating impact of the pandemic in the world’s poorest countries. All money raised will be distributed to the Global Fund’s COVID Response Mechanism and the Gavi COVAX Advance Market Commitment (AMC). Doubling the impact, the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation will generously match every dollar donated to the Global Fund, up to $2 million USD. “As life slowly begins to return to normal in the US, COVID continues to wreak havoc on the world’s poorest countries. Right now, less than 5 percent of people in low-income countries have received a single vaccine dose,” said Jennifer Lotito, President and COO of (RED). “This holiday season, we’re bringing the biggest brands in gaming, shopping and financial services together to fight this pandemic and help save lives.”

THE (RED) CREATOR CUP BRINGS TOGETHER CREATORS TO FIGHT COVID On Wednesday, Dec. 1, World AIDS Day, some of the world’s most exciting content creators including Nihachu, GeeNelly, Loony, WillNE & Miaxmon, Dev1ce and many others will join forces for The (RED) Creator Cup, a global response rallying the gaming community on Twitch and YouTube to fight COVID. The tournament is a collaboration between (RED), Dexerto and Unsigned, and is generously supported by Merck (known as MSD outside the U.S. and Canada). Content creators will team up to play a special (RED) Minecraft world, and give fans and followers opportunities to donate via Tiltify.

The (RED) Creator Cup will mobilize fans around the world to take action in the fight against COVID by featuring custom fundraising overlays that add unique viewer experiences, surprise donation incentives, and more, transforming gaming into a force to provide life-saving equitable access to COVID relief where it is needed most. Gaming fans will also be able to access (RED)’s

POLITICAL Affairs Rep. Robin Kelly Presents Grant Check to East Hazel Crest Fire C ongresswoman Robin L. Kelly (IL-02) presented a check to East Hazel Crest Village

President Thomas A. Brown and Fire Chief William Vallow for federal grant awarded through the Assistance to Firefighters Grant program, which is funded by Congress.

PRNewsfoto/(RED)

Tiltify fundraising tools to host their own fundraising streams, whenever they like, wherever they are.

(RED)EEM & PACK PURPOSE INTO REWARDS POINTS THIS HOLIDAY This holiday season, eligible credit card customers can (RED)EEM rewards points towards a donation to help fight COVID and save lives. (RED) has brought together leaders in the financial services sector to call a CODE (RED) on the COVID pandemic, raising money to support urgent and equitable access to COVID relief in response to the ongoing and devastating impact of the virus in the world’s poorest countries.

American Express Membership Rewards® points and Citi ThankYou® points can be used towards a donation to provide lifesaving COVID-19 support to those most in need. These rewards are donated with PayPal’s Pay with Rewards feature to support the Fund for the Global Fund. Reward balances are automatically converted to an equivalent dollar donation amount to support the essential COVID-19 recovery effort.

GIVE: JOIN BANK OF AMERICA & (RED) IN THE FIGHT AGAINST PANDEMICS Bank of America will support CODE (RED) with a $3 Million (USD) commitment to the Global Fund, as part of their broader $35 Million pledge through 2025, and continue driving broad support of the Global Fund

with messaging across its platforms, including their vast ATM and Financial Center network.

For every dollar donated to (RED) through December 31st, Bank of America will triple your contribution.

Visit red.org/donate-bankofamerica to donate.

SHOP (RED) AND SAVE LIVES WITH STYLISH, USEFUL HOLIDAY GIFTS THAT GIVE BACK ON AMAZON For the fifth consecutive year, (RED) and Amazon are teaming up to provide customers a single destination to shop one-of-a-kind gifts that give back at amazon.com/RED. With additional promotional support enabled by Merck (known as MSD outside the U.S. and Canada), every purchase on amazon. com/RED supports the fight against global health emergencies like AIDS and COVID, and funds life-saving programs in communities most in need.

New and noteworthy products for this year include: LARQ Bottle (PRODUCT)RED (ANOVA)RED Precision® Cookers collection (PRODUCT)RED Theragun PRO and mini (TRUFF)RED Hotter Sauce (VAHDAM)RED collection of teas and tea accessories (THE HONEY POT CO.)RED feminine care collection For more information, visit http:// red.org.

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The East Hazel Crest Fire Department was awarded $409,523.81. The Department will utilize this funding for vehicle acquisition to replace their 1984 fire engine. The purpose of the Assistance to Firefighters Grant (AFG) program is to award grants that will directly enhance the ability of fire departments, state fire training academies and nonaffiliated EMS organizations to protect the health and safety of the public and first responders.

“We know that the COVID-19 pandemic has presented new challenges and put additional pressures on fire departments across the country,” said Congresswoman Kelly. “In Fiscal Year 2020, the Assistance to Firefighters Grant program made $355 million available for the purchase of vital emergency response equipment, personal protective equipment, emergency vehicles and training.”

“I am so pleased that East Hazel Crest is receiving a portion of this money to purchase a new fire engine, which will hopefully make the work of the firefighters easier, bring some peace of mind in knowing you have a reliable fire engine, and result in a safer community for everyone,” continued Congresswoman Kelly.

“I’d like to thank Congresswoman Kelly for her assistance in getting us this grant. It’s vastly needed for us to replace a truck that we ordered in 1983,” said East Hazel Crest Village President Thomas A. Brown. “We appreciate all that she’s done for us.”

“I appreciate her coming out and presenting us with that. It means a lot to us because we are a strapped community where our income is very low and a majority of our equipment and everything is generally put together by fundraising and stuff that we have gone out and done on our own. We have, more or less, supported our department just by our own doings. This money means a great deal to us, and we certainly appreciate what she has gotten to us through the fund and the grant program,” said East Hazel Crest Fire Chief William Vallow.

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BUSINESS

TIDAL Launches New Tiers and New Ways To Get Artists Paid Innovative new products and features, including direct-to-artist payments, fan-centered royalties, and new and enhanced subscription tiers, will allow more music fans and artists to access the power of TIDAL

Victor George Vodka Owner Awarded $2.4 Million FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla. PRNewswire -Black-owned Victor George Spirits announced the Fort Lauderdale Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA) board voted unanimously to provide $2,450,000 to help fund construction cost of a 15,000 square foot facility that will house a distillery, restaurant, cigar bar, whiskey lounge, co working space and a rooftop bar and lounge located on historic Sistrunk Boulevard.

“This will be a signature project on the Sistrunk Corridor!” said Fort Lauderdale Commissioner, Robert McKinzie.

Victor G Harvey, owner of nationally distributed Victor George Vodka “VG”, through his development company, Northeast 6th Development will use the forgivable loan alongside his own investment and financing provided by a local bank to help transform a once vibrant area back to a destination where neighborhood residents, out of town visitors and other locals can dine, drink, and tour the distillery, tasting new and unique craft spirits. This new building will be named The Victory Building after the historic Victory Theatre once located on Sistrunk. This was the mecca of entertainment for Black people in Fort Lauderdale and the only theatre they could attend up until the end of segregation in 1964.

“As our core brand VG continues to grow nationwide, we are committed to helping our own city grow, particularly the Sistrunk corridor. This has been a long process, but we stayed the course,” said Victor Harvey. Through these difficult times our focus was to keep all of our employees working and get to this point, which we were able to do. This building will allow the creation of several more job opportunities, with most of the hiring

coming from within the neighborhood.”

Alongside Harvey, a spirits industry veteran and Beverage Scientist, Matthew Spinozzi who holds an MSC in Brewing & Distilling from Heriot-Watt University has been brought on board to oversee operations at the distillery.

Spinozzi is a globally recognized sprits consultant, and, previously the Chief of Science and Distilling for Matchbook Distilling Company teaching classes on the flavor science of beverages at the American Distilling Institute, the Bar Institute, and the University of Gastronomic Sciences. Spinozzi is featured on Discovery Channel’s Master Distiller. He is also a decorated volunteer firefighter and EMT. The duo will work together to add additional product lines including whiskey, tequila, hard seltzers as well as non-alcoholic beverages. VG Vodka is distributed in 44 states and available at most major retailers nationwide including Albertsons, Kroger, Trader Joes and more. It can also be found at several on and off premise locations throughout south Florida and as well as Tampa, Orlando and Jacksonville. This will serve as distribution points for the new products driven by consumer demand.

VG Vodka, locally made and sourced is gluten-free with all-natural ingredients for a clean smooth taste. The process is small batch and goes through a filtration and oxidation process that purifies and removes harsh congeners and free radicals normally accompanied by fermentation, distillation, and aging. “No hangover, no headache, no burn, just smooth,” said Harvey.

VG vodka retails for $19.99 750ml and $27.99 1.75L.

NEW YORK PRNewswire -- Global music and entertainment streaming service TIDAL announced a number of new updates to the product experience for music fans and artists alike. The enhancements deliver on TIDAL’s mission to create a sustainable, artist-first and fan-centric business model for the music industry and include a new free tier and enhanced paid subscription tiers, direct-to-artist payments, fan-centered royalties, and more. With support from the vast majority of our record label and distributor partners, TIDAL is going beyond current industry standards to make royalty payments more transparent for artists and rights holders.

“We’re building a platform that values art, artists, and culture, and for the first time opening the platform experience up to a wider group of fans with the free tier,” said Jesse Dorogusker, Head of TIDAL. “TIDAL is also supporting artists with fairer earning terms and quicker payments, and fans are getting a better way to support their favorite artists. These offerings are the first step of many, and we’re excited to collaborate with artists to evolve our tools to help them continue to grow and create on their own terms.”

Better Options for Music Fans TIDAL now offers three membership options for fans to choose from: TIDAL Free (US-only), TIDAL HiFi, and TIDAL HiFi Plus. Both HiFi tiers are available in all of TIDAL’s 61 international markets with plans to extend the free tier to other markets in the future. All tiers have access to the same catalog of over 80 million songs, videos and expertly curated playlists, with each tier having its own set of perks outlined below.

TIDAL Free (US-only): For the first time, music fans can now try TIDAL at no cost, with access to our entire music catalog and playlists, with limited interruptions.

TIDAL HiFi: At $9.99/month, this tier offers interruption-free access to HiFi sound quality. With TIDAL HiFi, members have offline capabilities, access to features like TIDAL Connect and My Activity, which provides individualized daily listening insights.

TIDAL HiFi Plus: For $19.99/month, HiFi Plus features everything the HiFi tier offers, in addition the introduction of fan-centered royalties and direct-to-artist payments. HiFi Plus will also continue to provide access to the best-in-class immersive sound formats (Dolby Atmos Music & Sony 360 Audio Recordings) and Master Quality Authenticated (MQA),

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alongside early access to exclusive offerings and future features.

New Ways for Artists to Get Paid Based on Fan Streaming Creating tools that prioritize the artist experience is central to TIDAL’s new transparency and revenue features, including: Direct-to-artist payments: Beginning today, TIDAL will launch monthly direct-to-artist payments.

This innovative program will give artists access to an additional payment stream, so they can benefit directly from their biggest fans on TIDAL. Each month, a percentage of HiFi Plus subscribers’ membership fees will be directed towards their top streamed artist, which they will see in their activity feed. This direct-to-artist payment is in addition to their streaming royalties.

Fan-centered royalties: PRNewsFoto Starting in 2022, TIDAL is taking a different approach on royalties.

In this new model, royalties attributed to HiFi Plus subscribers will not be aggregated. Rather, royalties will be paid based on the actual streaming activity of individual HiFi Plus subscribers as opposed to the industry accepted method of aggregating streams, empowering fans to play a larger role in the success of their favorite artists.

TIDAL has linked up with Square, Cash App, and PayPal to help ensure quick and seamless payouts to artists globally. TIDAL also has partnered with leading distributors CD Baby, DistroKid, Stem, Symphonic, and Tunecore, with Equity Distribution and Vydia launching soon, to ensure artists sharing music through those platforms are able to receive their payments via in-platform registration seamlessly.

All artists must opt-in to access direct artist payouts, either through TIDAL’s invite-only direct registration option or through one of TIDAL’s distribution partners. TIDAL will continue to open access to the program in the coming months, with information being made available for Artists with music available on TIDAL at TIDAL.com/ForArtists.

“TIDAL has been with me since the beginning, providing emerging artists, like myself, with resources to pursue my passion,” said Sam Austins, singer and songwriter.

“It’s exciting to see them continue to evolve their streaming platform to better support artists and their fans with new features like direct-to-artist payments. TIDAL was founded by artists, so the importance of economic empowerment is ingrained in what they do, no matter what stage of your career you’re in.”

Music fans can learn more about TIDAL and subscribe to TIDAL.com.

CITIZEN | Hyde Park | Week of Dec. 1, 2021

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FASHION

H&M USA Presents The “Buy From A Black Woman Holiday Market” PRNewsFoto

Iconic Supermodel Iman Launches First Fragrance, Love Memoir ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. PRNewswire -- HSN®, a leader in livestream shopping and video storytelling, announced the highly anticipated launch of entrepreneur, philanthropist and iconic supermodel Iman’s debut fragrance, Love Memoir. This new scent is a tribute to her epic romance with her husband, David Bowie, and an intimate reflection of their tender relationship. It is a bottled homage to the mutual devotion of a universally celebrated couple, and like both fine perfume and true love, its story requires a touch of divine alchemy. The fragrance is available exclusively on HSN.com.

Inspired by decades of romance and developed in a multi-year partnership with Batallure Beauty, Love Memoir is a unique composition of luscious, rich rose comingles with a hint of creamy, sensual vanilla; fresh, citrusy bergamot infuses an energetic note; and woodsy vetiver and earthy blackcurrant add smoky layers. Its construction is that of a fragrance made to linger and a fitting tribute to the legacy that only memory can create.

“Memories are like memoirs: They are pressed between the pages of our hearts and minds,” said Iman. Love Memoir is a fitting tribute to the legacy that only memory can create. I hope you enjoy your own love memories and create new ones.”

“It has been a privilege joining Iman as she led us on her personal journey of bringing to life a fragrance inspired by her own true love story. Iman’s vision has been brought to life from the sensual notes of the fragrance to the stunning bottle design. Her connection to every single detail of this project is an honest reflection of memories rooted in deep love,” stated Bridget Love, GMM & VP Beauty, QVC & HSN. “Iman is a beloved member of the HSN family through her Global Chic apparel brand and we are so excited to share Love Memoir with Iman’s adoring fans.”

A labor of love, the signature fragrance is encapsulated in a brilliant bottle, inspired by the cairns throughout the couple’s upstate New York retreat. The bottle embodies an organic, rounded silhouette reminiscent of the balance of overlapping stones similar in strength and unity to that of a mutual, indestructible love. Visions of unforgettable sunsets informed the amber hue, and the hammered gold cap is a nod to the couple’s global heritage and travels.

Iman teamed up with Batallure Beauty, the award-winning product development and production atelier co-founded by famed cosmetics executives Robin Burns-McNeill and Sam Ghusson. “Iman is obviously a very experienced beauty entrepreneur, but this was her first fragrance, so she came to us for guidance. That said, she is very hands-on. We functioned as conductors to bring all of the elements of the orchestra together in order to help make her vision a reality,” said Burns-McNeill.

Iman will appear on HSN’s livestreaming platforms on Friday, November 19th throughout the day to introduce Love Memoir and share the personal journey that informed the fragrance. As a pioneer in the live video commerce space, HSN incorporates entertainment, personalities, and industry experts to provide an entirely unique shopping experience for their customers by offering real-time engagement opportunities along with exclusive products. Shop Love Memoir on www.hsn.com (key words: Love Memoir).

NEW YORK PRNewswire -- Following the announcement of a year-long partnership in March 2021 and the successful ‘Inspire Tour’ this past July, H&M is proud to present the “Buy From a Black Woman Holiday Market” at its Times Square location in New York City, kicking off on Small Business Saturday on November 27th. Featuring BFABW vendors from across the country, H&M’s partnership and support will help to highlight Black Women business owners and further assist the nonprofit’s mission of empowering, educating, and inspiring Black Women and the people who support them.

Buy From a Black Woman is a non-profit organization founded in 2016 by Nikki Porcher that connects over 600 Black Women owned businesses across the United States and provides a community of support with the goal of helping them flourish.

Through the partnership with the retailer, 56 Black Women owned businesses have been featured in H&M stores and at events across the country so far, with more to come this holiday season.

The “Buy From a Black Woman Holiday Market” in H&M Times Square will see four different events and feature a total of 26 Black Women owned businesses from across the country.

Customers visiting the H&M flagship in the heart of New York City can meet the vendors and shop for their favorite holiday gifts. A variety of businesses will be featured, ranging from skincare, stationery, to home accessories and more. Many of those featured support additional causes, standing true to Buy From A Black Woman’s motto, “When you support a Black Woman Business Owner, you support a whole community.” “’Tis the season to support Black Women! This summer we let you know that Black Women are here, and the ‘Buy From A Black Woman Holiday Market’ presented by H&M is a reminder that we are not going anywhere. I’m excited to share the work these women are doing with the world through our continued partnership. We came together with the purpose of amplifying Black Women business owners and it is because of our cooperative passion that we can keep going. Buy From A Black Woman and H&M are here for Black

Nikki Porcher, Founder of Buy From a Black Woman and Lola Pyne of Oasis Soul Scent. PRNewsfoto/H&M.

Women,” says Nikki Porcher, Founder of Buy From a Black Woman.

Since the start of the partnership in March, the BFABW vendors have garnered more exposure and generated more sales than ever before. H&M USA is committed to using its platform to support economic participation and growth, because when Black Women and their businesses flourish, communities thrive.

“We are thrilled by the success of our partnership and applaud the work being done by Nikki Porcher and Buy From a Black Woman,” said Donna Dozier Gordon, Head of Inclusion and Diversity for H&M USA. “It is gratifying to see our investment in empowering communities generate tangible results for these business owners and create life-changing impact.”

The first Holiday Market kicked off on Saturday, Nov. 27, and will reopen with new vendors on Dec. 4, 11 and 18. For a full list of vendors attending each event, visit www.theblackwomanholidaymarket.com.

Mirna Valerio Joins Darn Tough Family Darn Tough Continues Push for Outdoor Inclusivity with New Ambassador NORTHFIELD, Vt. PRNewswire -- Darn Tough Vermont® is proud to announce the newest addition to their athlete roster with local advocate and influential runner, Mirna Valerio. A lover of the outdoors, Mirna advocates for inclusivity, works to reduce stigma, and is dedicated to normalizing an outdoor lifestyle for all bodies, genders, and identities. Living less than ten miles from the Darn Tough Mill in Northfield, she will be working closely with the brand on socks and so much more.

A lover of the outdoors, Mirna advocates for inclusivity, works to reduce stigma, and is dedicated to normalizing an outdoor lifestyle for all bodies, genders, and identities.

“Darn Tough values and appreciates differences of all kinds – gender, sexual orientation, ability, religion, education, and politics.” Said Ric Cabot, President and CEO.

PRNewsfoto/Darn Tough Vermont

“The brand recognizes that the difference of race is not something that comes up regularly, if at all, in Vermont. Mirna’s knowledge, dedication, and prowess as an athlete and as someone who pushes boundaries will be valuable in helping Darn Tough grow and adapt both internally and externally.

“I have been a fan of Darn Tough for a while now and

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trust their socks for whatever the adventure brings. Being right around the corner is an added bonus. I can see the process from start to finish and fully appreciate how this brand can offer an unconditional lifetime guarantee on every single sock,” said Valerio. “I am proud to work with them in this capacity, taking action for inclusivity in our local Vermont

community and beyond.”

Darn Tough Vermont is an American manufacturer of premium, all-weather outdoor and lifestyle socks backed up by the industry’s original unconditional guarantee for life. The company offers both Specialty and Tactical product lines.

Darn Tough Vermont’s Specialty line of socks includes Hike, Lifestyle, Run, Snow, Athletic, Work, Hunt and Juniors’ styles.

Darn Tough’s product is distinguished from industry competitors by 100 percent USA manufacturing; exceptional comfort, durability and fit; True-Seamless™ technology; and an exclusive blend of either ultra-fine, premium Merino wool or Coolmax®/Thermolite®.

Founded by Ric Cabot in 2004, a third-generation sock maker, Darn Tough Vermont operates out of Cabot Hosiery Mills. For more information about Darn Tough Vermont socks, please visit: www.DarnTough.com.

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CITIZEN | Hyde Park | Week of Dec. 1, 2021

iamBrandon takes his game to the next level with Xfinity Internet. He gets WiFi speed faster than a gig to game and stream for his legion of fans. And, when he’s not runnin’ it online, he kicks back with the ultimate in Black storytelling with the Black Experience on Xfinity. Plus, he enjoys his favorite streaming apps all in one place with his Xfinity Flex 4K streaming TV box, free with Xfinity Internet. Can your Internet do that?

Visit xfinity.com/xFi to learn more.

Restrictions apply. Not available in all areas. Internet: Gig speed requires Gigabit Internet and compatible xFi. Many factors affect speed, including equipment performance, interference, congestion, and speeds of visited websites. WiFi speeds are affected by additional factors, including distance from Gateway, home configuration, personal device capabilities, and others. For factors affecting speed visit xfinity. com/networkmanagement. Flex: Requires post-paid subscription to Xfinity Internet, excluding Internet Essentials. Not available to current Xfinity TV customers. Pricing subject to change. Taxes, fees and other applicable charges extra, and subject to change. Limited to up to 3 devices. 1 device included. Call for restrictions and complete details. ©2021 Comcast.

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Everyday player to award-winning streamer

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iamBrandon Award-Winning Streamer and Twitch Partner

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Holiday Trends

Top Holiday Trends For 2021: Personalized Gifts, Holiday Cards and Home Decor No matter your age, sending a holiday card sends the message that you care. Whether you prefer lighthearted cards with customized phrases that make people laugh or more traditional greetings with family photos and messages of holiday merriment, sending cards gives people near and far a reason to smile.

Personalized gifts Finding the perfect gift might seem impossible, especially for the person who seems to have it all.

Getting something that is unique and reflects the recipient's personality is easy when you personalize.

One-third of Americans plan to buy a personalized or customized gift this holiday season, which shows that making something special for loved ones is a popular choice. Those who are looking for personalized gifts feel that it's the best way to show family members or friends that they care. Other shoppers believe a personalized present carries more meaning than a typical gift.

From books and toys to home goods and ornaments, there are many personalized products available that will leave a mark on the world in a way that only you can. When creating personalized gifts, consider including things like photography, names, dates and personalized phrases (like that fun inside joke) and any item becomes one of a kind.

Shopping trends With supply chain disruption top of mind and worries about thin inventory and missing out on the best gifts, many consumers are shopping for the holidays earlier this year.

Gifts are often drivers for holiday shopping, but that's not the only reason carts are filling up in stores and online. A quarter of consumers plan to purchase new holiday home decor this year. Plus, with convenience and safety in mind, it's no surprise 58% of consumers said they are more likely to shop online rather than in-person this holiday season, the Shutterfly survey found.

"As consumers get ready for a second holiday season during the pandemic, they are looking to create meaning in each gift they give and every activity they plan," said Hilt. "Holiday cards, personalized gifts and new home decor are three top trends helping to create and share gifts with meaning this year."

(BPT) - The holiday season is a special time to share meaningful moments and gifts with loved ones to show each other you care. This year, people are finding new ways to celebrate and share joy with customized cards, personalized gifts and festive decor topping holiday lists.

"As consumers get ready for a second holiday season during the pandemic, we're seeing an increase in online retail sales. Despite market predictions of a decline due to consumer concerns with the evolving pandemic and supply chain issues, overall retail sales in August were up 15% from last year," said Jim Hilt, president of Shutterfly, a pioneer and leading ecommerce retail and manufacturing platform for personalized products. "Sharing meaningful moments is how people want to celebrate most this year.

With Shutterfly, people have the ability to create things with meaning and receive products easily due to our ability to deliver products on demand. That's why this year people are looking for one-of-a-kind gifts they can personalize for loved ones."

The holidays are the busiest time for Shutterfly, producing an average 165 million cards, as well as millions of personalized books, calendars and ornaments. That means roughly half of all Americans expect to receive a Shutterfly card this holiday season.

The sheer volume of holiday orders gives the company unique insight into top consumer trends and what will be on everyone's gift and to-do lists this year. The recent Shutterfly Holiday Retail Consumer Survey conducted in partnership with Ipsos uncovered insights into Americans' holiday shopping plans and behavior in 2021.

Holiday cards In today's digital age, you might think sending holiday cards is a fading tradition, but in actuality it's growing. The survey found that 44% of consumers plan to send holiday cards to friends and family, up 10 percentage points from last year.

A quarter of consumers plan to send photo cards and 22% plan to send personalized cards. Who is sending these holiday greetings? Younger age groups show more interest in sending photo and personalized cards, with 40% of 18- to 34-year-olds planning to send photo cards or personalized cards. That's significantly higher than the less than 20% of 55- to 70-year-olds that plan to send personalized photo cards.

www.citizennewspapergroup.com

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ENTERTAINMENT Black Promoters Collective Disrupts the Live Entertainment Industry NEW YORK PRNewswire -- The Black Promoters Collective (BPC), a coalition of the top Black, veteran, and independent live entertainment promoters, announces its official formation as a 100 percent, Blackowned organization dedicated to advancing the profile of independent Black promoters in the music industry and placing urban music back in the hands of Black promoters at a national and global level.

The BPC first made its splash into the industry as a collective in 2020 as a result of the pandemic, which paused the live music entertainment industry. The organization formed to give a voice to the often-overlooked indie Black promoters, citing how the industry has consistently downplayed the significance of Black promoters in urban music. The group was also very vocal about racial inequity in the industry.

“In 2020, racial injustice was on full display,” said Gary Guidry, CEO, Black Promoters Collective. “Our group was formed to combat the inequality seen in the live event promotion space. Many of today’s most successful urban artists were first supported by Black promoters. As they grew in popularity, the very promoters who gave them, what might have been their first break, are often left behind. As a collective, we are reprogramming the perception of Black promoters and making space for others to do the same.”

The 100 percent Black-owned company, BPC, is composed of veteran, successful promoters with industry backgrounds ranging from a minimum of 10-20 years and a maximum of over 40 years of experience individually. Combined, the promoters have produced more than 400 concerts and events across the country in 2020, with a total of $104 million in concert gross business. Members include, Gary Guidry, CEO, BPC and G-Squared Events; Shelby

‘Love & Hip-Hop’ Star Karlie Redd Signs Multi-Million Dollar Album Deal

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Joyner, president, BPC, and CEO/president, SJ Presents Corp.; Bill Ingram, CFO, BPC, and president, Platinum Productions, LLC.; Shahida Mausi, CSO/SVP, BPC, and founder, The Right Productions, Inc.; Troy Brown, CMO, BPC, and chief architect/ president, one50one; Lionel Bea, SVP, BPC, and co-founder, Bay Area Productions; Sulaiman Mausi, SVP, BPC, and president/ CEO, The Right Productions, Inc.; and Janice Cotton, VP, BPC, and director of business affairs, Bay Area productions.

The first major partnership for the BPC is with Grammy award-winning, singer-songwriter Maxwell and his upcoming tour, “The Night Tour.” Kicking off early 2022, Maxwell will be joined by supporting artists and R&B singers Anthony Hamilton and Joe. “We look forward to this lucrative partnership with Maxwell,” said Shelby Joyner, president, Black Promoters Collective. “As a coalition of the world’s premier black promoters, we will continue to use our expertise and connections to work with both emerging and premier talent to elevate their platforms and bring top-tiered live entertainment experiences to music lovers nationwide.”

The Black Promoters Collective (BPC) is a coalition of six of the nation’s top independent concert promotion and event production companies. As a 100% Black -owned business, their mission is to be the world’s leading producer and provider of culturally relevant live entertainment experiences. To learn more, visit http://www.blackpromoterscollective.com.

ATLANTA PRNewswire -- Reality TV ‘Love & Hip Hop: Atlanta’ star Karlie Redd has signed a global multi-million dollar album deal with famed “cryptocurrency label” Legacy Records. To celebrate the partnership, Legacy Records hosted an exclusive red-carpet dinner event Thursday, Nov. 11, at Spice House Restaurant in Atlanta.

Prized industry guests included Rasheeda & Kirk, Spice, Demarco, Jonny Blaze, Lil Bankhead, and more. The label’s guest list included CEO Keishia McLeod, prominent entertainment lawyer Navarro Gray, Chief Creative Officer Walid Azami, and Redd’s manager Ryan Fionda.

McLeod shared her excitement of Redd joining the Legacy team in “What intrigued me most about Karlie is her hustle and versatility.

It’s admiring because she truly understands the importance of a diversified skillset; she invests into a well-balanced portfolio, while remaining both humble and hungry. She has already accomplished that of 10 women combined and that tells me Karlie is just getting started! I think she’s just about to step into the most successful decade of her life, and I’m proud to support a strong woman who aims to help others do the same.”

Honoring her Trinidadian heritage, Karlie has begun her work on a dancehall album while spending time in the studio with Grammy-nominated producer Luke Nasty along with Jonny Blaze, Sean Garrett, Spice, and more, through

Legacy Records CEO Keishia McLeod (left) with the label’s first female artist, Karlie Redd. Photo by @kpshotit (IG)

production of her album.

Furthermore, she has been very active since the releases of her singles “Ferrari Karlie”, “Put You On” ft. Show Banga & Mr. Vegas, and “Heartbreaker” ft. Young Dro. Redd founded a bustling restaurant in College Park, Johnny’s Chicken & Waffles, with Ne-Yo and his wife Crystal, and have opened up a second location in the Atlanta area this year.

Completing its tenth season, Karlie has been featured in a starring role on “Love & Hip Hop: Atlanta”, since Season 1, as well as recurring appearances on “Saints & Sinners” on Bounce TV, amongst

other movie and TV roles.

Redd embraced her decision of signing with Legacy Records since she believes they are the best fit in delivering her music to the world. Having a female CEO at its helm, Keishia McLeod, Karlie says, “Keishia truly understands the vision of a female artist in a male-driven industry.”

Karlie Redd and Legacy Records will debut Redd’s newest album to the world in 2022. Thursday night’s dinner party boasted previews of Karlie’s upcoming music from this project, including an unreleased single titled “Top That” featuring Spice.

Vision Films to Release ‘Once Upon a Lifetime’ LOS ANGELES PRNewswire -Vision Films Inc. (“Vision”) announces the North American release of the fantasy drama Once Upon a Lifetime from David Skato Films on December 7, 2021. Faith, family and magic combine in this urban, Benjamin-Button-like tale that was written, produced and directed by David Skato and co-produced Cecily Jamelia. Executive producers are Magalene Sudduth, Narlyia Sterling, Jensen Atwood, and Skato.

Once Upon a Lifetime is a heartwarming tale that takes on some real-world issues including death, infidelity, intergenerational family relationships, and hope. It reminds

us of how short life truly is and that each of us should appreciate and make the most of our time together.

As a little boy struggles to cope with his difficult home life and his parents’ failing marriage, a mysterious girl suddenly appears. Faith, family, and a special kind of magic come together as his new friend teaches them all about love, forgiveness, and healing. Miracles sometimes happen when we least expect them.

Starring Arie Thompson (The Wrong Family), Jensen Atwood (Before “I Do”), Phoenix Nicholson (All My Children), Krystian Lyttle (This is Us), Marilyn Johnson (A Hopeless Father), Raquel

Reyes (Spirit), Sophia Glemaud (Good Cop Bike Cop), Melanie Thompson (Charlie), Cecily Jamelia (Beverly Hills Fabulous), and Joan Moten (Maggie).

Once Upon a Lifetime will be available on all major streaming and cable platforms, and on DVD, in the US and Canada on Tuesday, Dec. 7. Trailer: https://youtu.be/GemP2g7OYWU. Lise Romanoff, CEO and Managing Director of Vision Films says, “Once Upon a Lifetime is an empowering story about family, faith and experiencing loss. Vision Films is so proud to bring director David Skato’s strong female characters to the world. The hopeful message is universal and timely.” www.citizennewspapergroup.com

Writer/Director, David Skato shares, “I wanted to inspire hope and remind people to enjoy the moment. No matter what mistakes you make, always know that another day to get it right awaits.”

Vision Films is a leading independent sales and VOD aggregator specializing in the licensing, marketing, and distribution of over 800 feature films, documentaries, and series from some of the most prolific independent film producers in the world. Led by Lise Romanoff, Managing Director/ CEO Worldwide Distribution, Vision Films releases 2-4 films a month across Theatrical, VOD, DVD, and television platforms. visionfilms.net.

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CITIZEN | Hyde Park | Week of Dec. 1, 2021

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LEGAL NOTICE PUBLIC NOTICE

PUBLICATION NOTICE OF COURT DATE FOR REQUEST FOR NAME CHANGE (MINOR CHILDREN) OF:

JACKSON

on

STEPHANIE behalf

of:

FOR CHANGE OF NAME TO: ALEXANDER BARKSDALE LOVE Case No.: 2021 CONC 001384 Calendar 10

NOTICE IS HEREBY given to you, the public, that on September 15, 2021, I have filed a Petition for Change of Name in the Circuit Court of Cook County to change my present nameof Alexander Barksdale Jr. to the name of Alexander Barksdale Love.

The Court date will be held on December 20, 2021 at 9:30 a.m via Zoom video or teleconference. The Zoom video call information is: Court time: 9:30 a.m Dial-in-number: 312-626-6799 Meeting ID 963 3970 0908 Password: 395890

L. NIA

RICHARDSON to change names of minor children- NIA RICHARDSON case number: 2021CONC001184, Judge: Calendar, 8.

Publication is not necessary if both parents, confirmed on the birth certificate, agree to the name change or have been given notice. There will be a court date on the Request for Name Change (Minor Children) for these children: 1. Current Name of Minor Child: NIA LYNN RICHARDSON Proposed New Name of Minor Child: NIA LYNN JACKSON. 2. Court Date Infomation: a. Date: November 15, 2021 Time: 9:00 a.m. b. Address: 50 W. Washington, City of : Chicago and County: of Cook, Courtroom: 1704. ________________________________

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Signature of Petitioner, ALEXANDER BARKSDALE JR.

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IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF COOK COUNTY, ILLINOIS COUNTY DEPARTMENT, DOMESTIC RELATIONS DIVISION

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: Y21008075 on NOVEMBER 2, 2021. Under the Assumed Business Name of SOUND IMAGE PRODUCTION with the business located at: 936 HIRSCH BLVD., CALUMET CITY, ILLINOIS 60409. The true and real full name (s) and residence address of the owner (s) /partner (s) is: Owner/Partner Full Name EARNEST J. HALL Complete Address 936 HIRSCH BLVD., CALUMET CITY, ILLINOIS 60409, 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: Y21007957 on OCTOBER 6, 2021. Under the Assumed Business Name of GEM LARMAR with the business located at: 10049 S.OGLESBY AVENUE, CHICAGO, ILLINOIS 60617. The true and real full name (s) and residence address of the owner (s) / partner (s) is: Owner/Partner Full Name GWENDOLYN HOWARD. Complete Address 10049 S. OGLESBY AVENUE, CHICAGO, ILLINOIS 60617, USA _____________________________________

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12 | CITIZEN | Hyde Park | Week of Dec. 1, 2021

GETTING HUNDREDS OF SENIORS VACCINATED DOESN’T TAKE A VILLAGE. IT TAKES A GLORIA.

Gloria helped answer vaccination-related questions for seniors living at the Patrick Sullivan Seniors Building.

If you need someone to talk to about the COVID-19 vaccine, we are here for you.

Call 312-746-4835 Chicago.gov/SeniorVax

Chicago Department of Public Health