South End Citizen 10-23-2019

New paper explores race, representation in campaign finance — Page 3

Citizen Week of Oct. 23, 2019

| Vol. 52 | No. 37 | www.thechicagocitizen.com

SOUTH END

John and Dr. Denitra Griffin (center), owners of AGB Investigative Services, recently celebrated the opening of their new, 16,000-square-foot facility in Chicago’s Auburn-Gresham neighborhood with a ribbon-cutting ceremony. Photos Credit: Carl R. Ankrum

BLACK-OWNED SECURITY COMPANY CELEBRATES GRAND OPENING OF NEW SOUTH SIDE HEADQUARTERS AGB Investigative Services recently celebrated the grand opening of its new headquarters located on 7545 S. Western Ave. in Chicago’s Auburn-Gresham neighborhood. In addition to a formal ribbon-cutting ceremony, AGB Investigative Services also hosted a job and resource fair for community members on-site at the new location. PAGE 2

BUSINESS

MBDA Awards NAIC Million Dollar Grant To Raise $1 Billion For Investment In Minority Entrepreneurs PAGE 4

FASHION

NEWS

Trunk Club Launches New Charitable Giving Platform in Partnership with Dress for Success and Career Gear

10 Acronyms Homebuyers Need to Know PAGE 7

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2 | CITIZEN | South End | Week of Oct. 23, 2019

NEWS briefly EDUCATION

SXU SECURES $3 MILLION U.S. DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION TITLE V GRANT Saint Xavier University (SXU) was awarded a $3 million grant from the U.S. Department of Education under its Developing Hispanic-Serving Institutions Title V Program to increase retention and graduation rates.

The Comprehensive, Aligned Supports for Attainment (CASA) initiative outlined in SXU’s successful proposal (#P031S190311) will enhance student outcomes through an institution-wide approach.

“Identified gaps in student achievement will be reduced through this grant, aligning the needs of our students with crucial support for success,” said SXU President Laurie M. Joyner, Ph.D. “This innovative project connects the dots for SXU’s many powerful yet distinct student support programs and bolsters our ability to deliver demonstrable results. I am incredibly proud of our remarkable University Advancement team, Academic Affairs leadership and the capable members of the HSI Steering Committee for completing this strong and successful proposal.”

HEALTH

NEW UNITEDHEALTHCARE APP NOW GIVES MILLIONS OF PLAN PARTICIPANTS ON-DEMAND ACCESS TO VIRTUAL VISITS Millions of Americans now have access to on-demand telemedicine services 24/7 with the new UnitedHealthcare app. The UnitedHealthcare app provides health information for people on the go, offering plan participants a single source to help maintain and improve their well-being, access care and make the most of their health benefits. Eligible plan participants can now use the app to directly schedule and conduct a Virtual Visit with a doctor, helping eliminate the need for multiple sign-ins or to download a separate app.

The app is available now for download at no additional charge for Android and Apple devices to more than 27 million people enrolled in UnitedHealthcare health benefit plans. “Digital health resources are fundamentally changing how people navigate the health system, making it possible to access care from anywhere at any time and helping remove barriers to care,” said Anne Docimo, M.D., UnitedHealthcare chief medical officer. “The new app is part of UnitedHealth Group’s more than $3 billion annual investment in data, technology and innovation, helping build a health system that is more intuitive, affordable and convenient.”

LAW & POLITICS

STACEY ABRAMS TO DELIVER SPEECH ON VOTER SUPPRESSION ON NOV. 15 Former Georgia House Democratic Leader Stacey Abrams will deliver a major speech on voter suppression one year after her narrow defeat in Georgia’s gubernatorial race, at a National Press Club Headliners Luncheon on Friday, November 15.

In the immediate aftermath Stacey Abrams of her hotly contested defeat to Republican (and Georgia’s then-secretary of state) Brian Kemp, Abrams launched Fair Fight Action, and together with another advocacy group, filed a federal lawsuit seeking to overhaul Georgia’s election system on the grounds that the current system impaired citizens’ ability to vote in the 2018 gubernatorial election, and thus deprived them of their constitutional rights guaranteed under the First, Fourteenth, and Fifteenth Amendments.

Black-Owned Security Company Celebrates Grand Opening Of New South Side Headquarters Continued from page 1

BY KATHERINE NEWMAN

AGB Investigative Services recently celebrated the grand opening of its new headquarters located on 7545 S. Western Ave. in Chicago’s Auburn-Gresham neighborhood. In addition to a formal ribbon-cutting ceremony, AGB Investigative Services also hosted a job and resource fair for community members on-site at the new location.

AGB Investigative Services provides expertise in all aspects of security, including physical and cybersecurity. The company was founded in 2001 by John Griffin, Jr. and his wife Dr. Donitra Griffin.

“AGB Investigative Services has been around for 18 years and is a full-service security, investigative, background, cybersecurity, and fingerprinting organization. The acronym AGB means Always Giving Back and we started in the basement of our first home and since then, we have grown to be licensed in eight states and employ over 800 people,” said John Griffin Jr.

The new facility in Auburn Gresham was a $2.5 million project that included a full renovation of an existing building.

The Griffins, who were both raised on the south side of Chicago, said that when they were looking for a location for their new headquarters, they were glad to be able to find the space they needed on the south side where they hope to be able to provide an economic boost to the neighborhood and surrounding communities.

“We were very intentional about staying in Chicago and on the south side to be accessible to people and the community on the south side. We had a challenge trying to find real estate that would accommodate our needs,” said Dr. Denitra Griffin. “We wanted to make sure that we had a brand new place that looked good and made our employees feel good and be proud to be a member of the AGB Family.”

The Griffins said that they found Auburn Gresham to be the most accommodating community when it came to meeting their needs for space and accessi-

bility for their employees.

In addition to operating security services, AGB Investigative Services also has a philanthropic arm that consists of the AGB Institute and the Always Giving Back Foundation. These two entities are also housed in the new headquarters and offer scholarships, mentoring, and workforce training programs for youth along with training programs for adults.

“To date, we have provided $45,000 worth of academic scholarships. We are not just one-and-done, we don’t just give kids scholarships and walk away, we stay committed to them through the process and tend to their social-emotional competencies so they are incentivized to complete college and earn a degree,” said Dr. Denitra Griffin. “We also have our family first program where we realize that our members have young families so we provide them with resources to help remove barriers that interfere with their ability to go to work.”

To learn more about AGB Investigative Services, visit www.agbinvestigative.com.

UIC earns $3.8M grant to enhance early childhood education The University of Illinois at Chicago has received a $3.8 million, four-year grant from the U.S. Department of Education to further its work, along with several partners, supporting early childhood education and to prepare early childhood educators.

The Chicago Early Childhood Preparation and Pathway Partnership, or CECPP Partnership, aims to serve 100 residents over five years and will involve as many as 2,000 Chicago preschoolers and up to 100 Chicago Public Schools early childhood classrooms and/or Chicago community-based organizations.

Catherine Main, senior lecturer and program coordinator in the College of Education, is the principal investigator for the grant. Kate Zinsser, assistant professor of psychology and principal investigator at the Social-Emotional Teaching and Learning Lab at UIC, is a co-principal investigator.

Main and Zinsser have partnered to develop one of the only early childhood education residency programs in the country to provide teachers with focused instruction on not only academic content, but also evidence-based teaching strategies to promote social-emotional learning.

The residency program, called the UIC Alternative Early Childhood Licensure program, is designed to prepare early childhood teachers in Chicago’s

Catherine Main. Photo by Laura Hayes

underserved communities.

“The program provides a viable pathway for teacher residents to gain state teacher licensure and graduate-level coursework while maintaining employment and strong relationships with young children and their families at their current workplace,” Main said.

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The aim of the program is to recruit and select traditionally disenfranchised people, particularly women of color, to advance their education, strengthen their teaching practice and improve outcomes for children, according to the grant.

The initiative is designed to help address acute early childhood teacher shortages, the lack of teacher diversity in lead teacher roles, and to combat teacher turnover and increase teacher retention.

The grant calls for the enhancement of the UIC program by offering, “intense UIC coaching support, increased content in socio-emotional learning, STEM and inclusion of diverse learners.”

Other co-principal investigators in the College of Education include Michelle Parker-Katz, clinical professor in special education, and Kathleen Sheridan, associate professor in the department of educational psychology.

The grant creates a partnership that will bring in key stakeholders from government agencies, community organizations, university teachers and researchers.

Partners include researchers at George Mason University, the Chicago Public Schools, the City of Chicago’s Office of Early Learning, and the Governor’s Office of Early Childhood Development.

CITIZEN | South End | Week of Oct. 23, 2019

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NEWS

South Side Church to Host Job Fair for Disadvantaged Community SHELDON HEIGHTS CHURCH OF CHRIST AND THE WASHINGTON HEIGHTS WORKFORCE CENTER WILL HOST A JOB FAIR FROM 10 A.M. TO 2 P.M. ON OCT. 23 AT THE CHURCH, 11325 S. HALSTED ST., FILLED WITH EMPLOYERS LOOKING TO HIRE FOR VARIOUS POSITIONS.

BY WENDELL HUTSON Contributing Writer

A South Side church is partnering once again with a nonprofit organization to produce a job fair in a neighborhood known for high crime and unemployment.

Sheldon Heights Church of Christ and the Washington Heights Workforce Center will host a job fair from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Oct. 23 at the church, 11325 S. Halsted St., filled with employers looking to hire for various positions, according to Richard Hart, employment coordinator for the church. The pair jointly sponsored a job fair last October at the church as well.

“What we do at Sheldon Heights is meet a person wherever they may be at this point in their lives and help them grow from there,” said Hart. “It’s not about enriching ourselves but about helping the next person get ahead in life and helping them stay blessed.”

According to Denise Holman, a business representative for the Workforce Center, UPS, Blue Cross/Blue Shield of Illinois, CTA, U.S. Census Bureau, U.S. Army, and SCR Transportation are among the confirmed employers attending the fair.

“But we also have manufacturing, nursing

UPS, Blue Cross/Blue Shield of Illinois, CTA, U.S. Census Bureau, U.S. Army, and SCR Transportation are among the employers participating in an Oct. 23 job fair on the South Side. Photo credit: By Wendell Hutson

assistants, call center, and administrative assistant positions employers are looking to fill too,” added Holman.

Dallas Gordon, operations manager for the Washington Heights Workforce Center, said one of the biggest challenges it has with recruit-

Officials say they want AG Raoul To Investigate Metro South Medical Center’s Closing U.S. Representative Bobby L. Rush (D-Ill.), joined by state and local leaders, as well medical professionals and union representatives, recently called on Illinois Attorney General Kwame Raoul to investigate Quorum Health Corporation’s closure of Metro South Medical Center.

On June 11, 2019, Quorum filed a discontinuation application for exemption with the Illinois Health Facilities and Services Review Board, announcing that they planned to suspend services in various departments at MetroSouth and utlimately changed their date of closure from November 1st to September 30th, according to a press release.

On September 26, 2019, the hospital discharged its last patient and closed its doors. However, this decision to close prior to receiving approval from the Illinois Health Facilities and Services Review Board is prohibited pursuant to Illinois State Law (77 Ill. Adm. Codes 1130.525 (a)), a press releases further stated.

“Quorum’s decision to close MetroSouth before receiving approval from the Illinois Health Facilities and Services Review Board

is not only an affront to the members of my district who depend on this hospital, but it is also a clear violation of State Law,” said Rep. Rush. “It is my hope that by taking this action, we will inform other health corporations that boarding up hospitals outside of state regulations will not be tolerated in my District and certainly not in the State of Illinois. The hardworking citizens that we represent deserve better and as their elected officials, we expect nothing less.”

MetroSouth is a 314-bed, acute care hospital with a blend of private and semi-private rooms, employed 800 doctors, nurses, and other professionals, and serviced over 70,000 patients each year.

Metro South has served the residents of the South Suburbs since 1905 under a number of different names and owners. In 2008, then named, St. Francis Hospital was facing significant financial difficulties and closure was pending.

However, the commitment of the elected officials, together with that of the hospital leadership, led to the hospital being purchased

by MSMC Investors in 2008 and subsequently by Quorum in 2012, according to a press release.

ment for job fairs is not so much employers but getting applicants ready for interviews.

“Prior to our job fairs, we host a free job readiness workshop for applicants where we assist them with putting together a resume and cover letter and providing interview tips like dress at-

tire, posture and how best to respond to certain interview questions,” explained Gordon. “But too often we do not get a large turnout for our job readiness workshops and some applicants may attend a job fair not completely prepared.”

For its part, Sheldon Heights is always looking for ways to enhance the lives of others especially those living in its backyard, said Hart.

“Connecting the community with employers who offer livable employment opportunities, which allows them to remain and in many cases become self-sufficient is the purpose of our job fairs,” said Hart. “As a community partner, we try to do our part in helping people with their needs whether its groceries, employment, after school activities for their children, marriage counseling or spiritual guidance. That is what Sheldon Heights Church of Christ is all about.”

New paper explores race, representation in campaign finance In politics as in life, money talks. And in American politics, the question of “Who donates?” is closely linked to the crucial question of “Who governs?”

By far, most campaign donations historically have come from white voters.

But new University of Washington-led research indicates that if more candidates of color ran for office, donations from individuals of color would likely increase as well.

The findings are described in a new paper by Jake Grumbach, UW assistant professor of political science, with Alexander Sahn, a doctoral student at the University of California, Berkeley.

The paper is forthcoming from the American Political Science Review.

Grumbach said he was not surprised by the findings themselves — which largely match what common sense would indicate — but by how clear the results were.

“In terms of voting, it’s unclear whether people of color are more likely to turn out to vote when a candidate of color runs — studies disagree,” he said. “But it’s very clear that candidates of color increase contributions from donors of color.”

To investigate campaign giving across populations, Grumbach and Sahn combined federal data on campaign contributions with a statistical technique that tries to predict the individuals’ racial background based on their name and location. Using this process they estimated the ethnoracial identity of 27 million campaign contributors making in www.thechicagocitizen.com

Jake Grumbach

all about 87 million individual campaign contributions in the years between 1980 and 2012, totaling about $33 billion in all.

“Across this time period, we find a highly unrepresentative contributor class,” they write. “Black and Latino representation in contributions is much smaller than in the general population, electorate, and elected offices, and has remained mostly static since 1980.”

They found that the presence of an Asian, black or Latino nominee in a political race significantly increases the proportion of contributions from “coethnic” contributors, or those of the same ethnic background. Republican Latino candidates, they also found, received significantly lower contributions from whites than white Republican candidates.

Grumbach said they also wondered if candidates of color underwent “backlash,” or white voters either giving less to them or actually turning to donate to their opponent.

“We ended up finding a bit of decrease in money from white donors to minority candidates, but it’s more than made up for by increased minority contributions. And, opponents don’t raise any additional money when running against minority candidates.

“Overall, minority candidates — especially Democrats — are at least as competitive in fundraising as white candidates. This should assuage fears that running more minority candidates would hurt fundraising.”

As to why black and Latino donating to candidates has remained static since 1980 — years in which candidates of color have been more plentiful and successful — Grumbach cited the ever-growing racial wealth gap, “so black and Latino people in the United States just don’t have enough money to be a larger share of money in politics.”

It also may be, he said, that “people of color may feel unrepresented and that donating money is unlikely to change the system, whereas white voters may feel like their money can have a real effect on politics.”

Grumbach and Sahn added that they hope this study “sparks greater interest in the political economy of race.” The study was funded in part by a Ford Foundation Dissertation Fellowship.

4 | CITIZEN | South End | Week of Oct. 23, 2019

BUSINESS

MBDA Awards NAIC Million Dollar Grant To Raise $1 Billion For Investment In Minority Entrepreneurs The Minority Business Development Agency (MBDA) of the U.S. Department of Commerce and the National Association of Investment Companies (NAIC), the largest network of diverse-owned private equity firms and hedge funds, recently announced that MBDA has awarded NAIC a $1.4 million grant to support a project that will facilitate the aggregation and deployment of approximately $1 billion in growth capital into minority-owned businesses.

Access to capital remains the most important factor limiting the ability of many of the nation’s 11 million minority- and womenowned business enterprises (MWBEs) to increase in scale. The $1.4 million grant demonstrates both a recognition of the obstacles faced by minority asset managers and a prioritization towards addressing the many

challenges faced by MWBEs. Through this landmark MBDA grant, NAIC will launch the Minority Growth Equity Funds Initiative, which aims to increase the amount of capital available for MWBEs poised for growth. As a key goal of the initiative, NAIC will quantify the demand for and current supply of capital focused on MWBEs, then leverage its extensive expertise and broad network to attract and invest growth capital in

innovative businesses owned by women and ethnically diverse entrepreneurs. The outcome will empower MWBEs to drive substantial job and wealth creation and to make a significant economic impact in historically underserved communities and in the Nation.

“According to U.S. Census Bureau, the number of minority-owned small businesses in the U.S. is growing much faster than the overall small business growth rate. But, despite their growth rate, minority-owned firms are still

having a much harder time accessing capital,” says MBDA National Director Henry Childs II. “MBDA is committed to getting more minority-owned businesses growth capital through forward thinking investments like the Minority Growth Equity Fund initiative.”

“The importance of minority-owned businesses to our nation’s economy cannot be overstated, but the entrepreneurs who run them are often overlooked in the growth equity market, substantially limiting their ability to scale,” says Robert L. Greene, president and CEO of the NAIC. “With the support of the MBDA and the efforts of our member firms and others, the Minority Growth Equity Funds Initiative will help position many of these businesses for enhanced contribution to the American economy of the future.”

Former NBA All-Star and Businessman Jamal Mashburn Joins Revolution Global as Board Advisor Illinois-based Revolution Global, formerly Revolution Enterprises, a multi-state cannabis health and wellness company, announced that

former NBA all-star Jamal Mashburn has been appointed an advisor to the board of directors.

Drawing on his experience as an

investor and owner and operator of dozens of retail businesses and restaurants, Mashburn will advise Revolution on expansion,

social equity issues, and corporate marketing.

“I am thrilled to join Revolution during this exciting period of growth for both the company and the industry,” Mashburn said. “I admire Revolution’s stewardship in the communities where it operates, leadership in pushing for greater social equity, dedication to producing best-in-class products, and commitment to putting patients first.

Revolution has laid the foundation for success as it enters more states.”

Mashburn brings experience in strategic planning, capital markets, management, and retail operations to his role at Revolution. He joins the company as Revolution prepares for a capital raise to fund expansion efforts.

Mashburn will also work to build bridges with communities of color, further advancing Revolution’s commitment to social equity.

Minorities are underrepresented in the sector as investors, operators, and employees. According to a Marijuana Business Daily survey, only 17 percent of cannabis executives are minorities.

“Jamal’s unique business background will be an asset to our board,” said Mark de Souza, CEO of Revolution. “His success running thriving franchise businesses, paired with his knowledge of capital markets and commitment to community service, make him a natural fit for Revolution as the company enters its next chapter.”

After retiring from the NBA in 2006, Mashburn turned his energy to investing in and growing successful

businesses. With interests in more than 100 franchise locations, Mashburn’s ventures include Papa John’s Pizzas and Lexus and Toyota dealerships across multiple states.

“Revolution is honored to have an entrepreneur of Jamal’s caliber join the team,” said Tony Hunter, chairman of Revolution. “Jamal has always led his businesses with an eye towards innovation, which is key as Revolution expands to new markets.”

Committed to improving the lives of disadvantaged young people, Mashburn ensures that his businesses contribute to their local communities, whether through donations or volunteering. In 2009, Mashburn founded the Mashburn Family Foundation, which raises funds for scholarships, mentoring programs, and partners with local school districts. In 1993, he established the Mashburn Scholarship Fund, which continues to finance the educations of promising Kentucky-area students from underrepresented groups to this day.

Mashburn joins de Souza, who brings more than 30 years of experience in management, finance, and business development, and Hunter, the former publisher of the Chicago Tribune. De Souza is a member of the Chicago Mercantile Exchange (CME) and recently advised Governor J.B. Pritzker’s transition team on agriculture issues.

Hunter is recognized for his success adapting the Tribune’s business model to survive disruption in the publishing and media industries.

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CITIZEN | South End | Week of Oct. 23, 2019

The Polished Pebbles Girls Mentoring Program Celebrate Its "We're Better Together 10 Year Anniversary The Award winning Polished Pebbles Girls Mentoring Program provides girls and young women with the communications skills they need to succeed in school, their communities, and their future workplace. Girls learn communication skills, conflict resolution, and on the job etiquette, and are connected to workplace experiences and mentorship provided by corporate professionals.

Kelly Fair, founder and executive director of Polished Pebbles is a passionate advocate for girls. Since launching the Chicago-based program in 2009 and has helped over 3,000 girls ages 7-17 become effective communicators at home, school, and the workplace.

Guests enjoying the carnival themed festivities at Polished Pebbles Girls Mentoring Program’s ‘We’re Better Together’ 10 year anniversary celebration at Hyde Park Bank.Since 2009, Polished Pebbles has helped over 3,000 girls ages 7-17 become effective communicators at home, school, and the workplace. You can pledge your support for the organization by texting PEBBLES TO 44-321.

Pictured Above L-R: Melody Winston; Phillip Beckham; Felicia Davis; Charmaine Rickett, Uncle Remus Restaurants, an event sponsor; and Doresah Ford Bey. Photo Credit: Christian De’Mar

bers ard mem nival o b h it gram w The car ring Pro de Park Bank. become to n e M -17 irls Hy bbles G ls ages 7 ation at shed Pe iversary celebr over 3,000 gir rt for the li o P , r e directo ear ann s helped r suppo Elle” executiv Together’ 10 y ization that ha can pledge you onsor; Latrice “ d n a r e r n d , ce. You event sp ir, foun ’re Bette the orga s Fargo Kelly Fa nization’s ‘We fundraiser for nd the workpla vell, Nokia, an hepherd, Well a o a a S s l, rg at the o mily event wa t home, schoo 21. L-R: Betsy C onsor; Latrina a 3 fa sp s t d r 4 n e 4 e to v a m O e e ic n th ar ST , an commu EBBLE n De’M harities effective on by texting P se, Milhouse C Credit: Christia u ati organiz ; Dawn Milho e Taylor. Photo ir a a F M ; is d ; an Dav sponsor t n e v e an

Polished Pebbles Girls Mentoring Program honored the Sherman Family, winners of their “We’re Better Together” video contest at the Polished Pebbles 10 year anniversary celebration at Hyde Park Bank. The carnival themed family event was a fundraiser for the organization that has helped over 3,000 girls ages 7-17 become effective communicators at home, school, and the workplace. Visit www.polishedpebbles.com to learn how you can support Polished Pebbles girls.

Pictured Above L-R: Dawn Milhouse, event co-chairperson; Kelly Fair, founder and executive director and Chris Curse, event co-chairperson with The Sherman Family winners of the ‘We’re Better Together’ video contest. Photo Credit: Percy Ollie Jr.

Polished Pebbles girls share the stage with Kelly Fair, founder and executive director, Polished Pebbles Girls Mentoring Program, at the organization’s 10 year anniversary celebration. The girls shared their experiences participating in the Polished Pebbles Every Girl Is A CEO program that offers girls job shadowing opportunities to explore a variety of careers. Fair unveiled the upcoming companion book for the program during the event. Visit www.polishedpebbles.com to learn how you can support Polished Pebbles girls.

Photo Credit: Christian De’Mar

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FASHION

Trunk Club Launches New Charitable Giving Platform in Partnership with Dress for Success and Career Gear Trunk Club recently announced its new charitable platform, Trunk Club Cares, focused on improving job training and preparedness in local communities through partnerships with nonprofits Dress for Success and Career Gear.

Trunk Club committed more than $30,000 and employee volunteers to both organizations, which serve communities through innovative programming designed to help individuals find employment.

“At Trunk Club, we understand the power of a good outfit and how that boost of confidence can impact your day-to-day work and career, regardless of your experience or where you are in your career,” said Fanya Chandler, president of Trunk Club. “We designed this program by listening carefully to our employees’ and customers’ passions for giving back.

We’re proud and honored to support both of these organizations that share our values and are making a tremendous impact in our communities.”

Trunk Club partnered with Dress for Success to host four volunteer days for employees at their boutiques where employees worked with program clients to create interview outfits.

Additionally, Trunk Club hosted a resume boot camp during which Dress for Success clients learned about interview best practices and had mock interviews with Trunk Club employees. Finally, Trunk Club stylists shared their time and style expertise to outfit 20 Dress for Success clients and senior executives in Chicago for a fashion show fundraiser.

“We’re so happy to partner with an organization so well aligned with our mission,” said Joi Gordon, CEO of Dress for Success.

“Trunk Club is doing important work in their communities to help people become financially independent and reach their goals.”

Trunk Club is also teaming up with Career Gear by providing employee volunteers who

Men’s suits may not get the same amount of social media and fashion industry coverage as women’s suits, but contemporary men’s formal wear and men’s clothing in general have never been more exciting and cutting edge.

Los Angeles-based MENSUSA.COM dishes on what’s hot and what’s not.

Dress for Success client practices interview skills with Trunk Club employee at the styling service’s Chicago headquarters.

provide pro-bono styling services to program participants.

“We may provide the suit, but we are really in the confidence business. We want to help men help themselves while they strive to live their best lives,” said Jesseca Kendall, director of community engagement at Career Gear.

In addition to these partnerships, Trunk

Club continues to activate in its local communities with employee-driven activations.

Annually, Trunk Club employees nominate and vote on their favorite charitable organizations to receive grants that help achieve their missions. Last year’s winning organizations were Chicago’s Anti-Cruelty Society, St. Jude’s Children’s, and the Alzheimer’s Association.

Avon Transforms Its Beauty Offerings New Avon, (“New Avon Company”) is putting a fresh face forward under the new ownership of parent company LG Household & Health Care, Ltd. While the iconic brand has a longstanding history of awardwinning products, industryleading innovation, and a network of 250,000 sales Representatives throughout North America, Avon will now have access to LG H&H’s world-class R&D capabilities in cosmetics, personal care, fragrance, hair care and packaging and design, allowing the brand to benefit from the cutting-edge technology and bestin-class quality of Korea’s leading consumer goods company.

Under the LG H&H umbrella, Avon will unveil multiple cross-LG brand partnerships later this year,

MENSUSA.COM Discusses Latest Trends In Menswear

harnessing top Korean innovation, science, and technology like never before.

Upcoming collaborations include Avon x THE FACE SHOP—a collection of skincare and makeup in exclusive shade ranges and new-to-Avon formats such as the Koreabeloved “cushion” formulations of foundation, highlighter, and blush. A flagship beauty brand for LG H& H, THE FACE SHOP is steeped in the concept of “luxurious naturalism,” and has been a driving force in the Korean cosmetics market since its December 2003 debut. There are currently 1200 THE FACE SHOP stores in Korea, stocked with popular sub-brands such as

PRNewsfoto/New Avon Company

DR. BELMEUR, a clean skincare range.

“We couldn’t be more thrilled and excited about our new alliance with LG Household & Health,” said Evy deAngelis, head of sales enablement for New Avon. “As a company, Avon has always served two equally important constituencies: passionate consumers and our community of inspirational Representatives.

Under the new ownership of LG H&H, known for its preeminence in technology and innovation, we’re able to offer our consumers and Representatives an unparalleled slate of new initiatives and product offerings.”

In addition to Avon x THE FACE SHOP, there’s another collaboration in the works: Avon x Chi, three hair care products crafted from a blend of certified organic botanicals including aloe vera, pomegranate, and hibiscus.

Avon also plans to enact new programs to support upcoming launches as well as the greater brand in hopes of growing and diversifying their consumer and representative base. This includes a new reward program made with Swarovski® Created Diamonds that recognizes top team builders.

While product offerings and partnerships may be modernizing, Avon will continue to empower women through economic opportunity and entrepreneurship.

For more information, please visit www.avon.com.

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STYLES It’s true - first impressions do matter, and when it comes to presenting the best, most professional look for work and a night on the town, slim fit suits are still all the rage in America, particularly in larger, more cosmopolitan cities, with no sign of this trend losing steam or going out of style anytime soon. In both 2-piece and 3-piece ensembles, these suits present a look that project both poise under pressure and glowing confidence.

For those who crave more attention, statement suits that declare one has arrived are a trend that continues to grow. These polished pieces utilize patterns and bold colors to maximum effect and get a man noticed out and about and on social media.

COLORS While black and navy pinstripe suits that conjure up images of Wall Street should always have a place in a man’s closet, suits of color have never been more popular. On the West Coast, the slim-fit blue suit with contrasting light brown or orange-hued dress shoes (also known as the Hollywood Power Suit) still rules the streets of La La Land. Current trending colors include olive and burgundy, with off-white and white tuxedo jackets rising in popularity.

FABRICS Polyester is the miracle synthetic fabric that works day or night.

Although it does not breathe as well as other natural fabrics, polyester is lightweight and durable, and remains a go-to option for achieving the everyday guy look. Thicker fabrics such as wool and tweed breathe better than polyester and provide greater warmth during the chilly months ahead. Linen and cotton always work well for the warmer summer months when a man wants to present a look that is both stylish and chic (while sipping a martini perhaps - shaken not stirred, of course) although wrinkles in the fabric tend to appear early and often. Yet so too will the compliments.

The MENSUSA.COM collection of fine men’s wear can be shopped online at https://www.mensusa.com/

CITIZEN | South End | Week of Oct. 23, 2019

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NEWS

10 Acronyms Homebuyers Need to Know StatePoint - PMI, APR, LTV… these unfamiliar acronyms don’t need to bewilder or intimidate uninitiated homebuyers.

To help you negotiate the homebuying process like a pro, Freddie Mac is sharing definitions of 10 key acronyms you’ll encounter as you meet with lenders, make a down payment and pay back your loan.

1. APR (Annual Percentage Rate): The APR tells you the annual cost of borrowing money based on the loan amount, interest rate and certain others fees. Use it as the bottom-line number to shop and compare rates among lenders.

2. FRM (Fixed-Rate Mortgage): The most common type of mortgage, an FRM, has an interest rate that doesn’t change, giving you stability over the life of the loan.

3. ARM (Adjustable-Rate Mortgage): An ARM usually offers lower monthly payments at the outset, but after three, five or seven years, payments change with interest rates and reset periodically.

4. LTV (Loan-to-Value): The LTV ratio equals the amount of money borrowed divided by the home’s appraised value. It shows how much of your home you own versus how much you owe, and lenders use it to help evaluate the risk and terms of your loan.

payment is essential for giving you a more accurate picture of the cost of homeownership than P&I alone.

9. UPB (Unpaid Principal Balance): The amount of principal still owed on a loan is referred to as UPB. On a typical monthly mortgage payment, a portion of your payment is applied to the interest and a portion is applied to the principal. The following month’s interest is based on your UPB. To check how much of your payment is going towards your principal, take a look at your amortization schedule.

10. HOA (Homeowners Association): Twenty percent of America’s homeowners live within a community governed by an HOA. Before buying in such a community, get a handle on how much its HOA fees are, what they cover, and how often payments are due. Typically paid monthly, quarterly, or annually, HOA fees may cover services such as trash removal, lawn care, pest control and maintenance for common areas.

For more homebuying educational tools and resources, visit myhome.freddiemac.com.

It’s easy to feel adrift in a sea of unfamiliar technical acronyms.

But, studying your vocabulary now can mean greater confidence when it’s time to make one of the most important purchases of your life.

It’s easy to feel adrift in a sea of unfamiliar technical acronyms. But, studying your vocabulary now can mean greater confidence when it’s time to make one of the most important purchases of your life.

5. DTI (Debt-to-Income): Calculated by lenders to assess your ability to manage monthly payments and repay debts, DTI is the percentage of your monthly income that goes toward your monthly debt payments.

Moving Forward Together

Please join us at a Public Open House

6. PMI (Private Mortgage Insurance): For homebuyers making down payments that are less than 20 percent of the home purchase price, PMI is a required insurance that protects lenders from losses if borrowers are unable to pay their mortgage. PMI is typically incorporated into monthly mortgage payments.

Hosted by the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) for the 75th Street Corridor Improvement Project (75th St. CIP). This project will deliver transportation, economic and environmental benefits in the Chicago neighborhoods of Ashburn, Englewood, Auburn Gresham and West Chatham.

Attend the public open house to learn about the project’s status, design and construction timelines, local mobility improvements, educational opportunities for youth, job training and contracting opportunities, and property impacts and acquisitions. The 75th St. CIP project team will be there to discuss project exhibits and answer questions. A video presentation will be shown and continuously repeated.

7. P&I (Principal and Interest): This is the portion of your monthly mortgage payment that goes toward paying off the money you borrowed to buy your home. For most homeowners, P&I make up the majority of your monthly mortgage payment — but not all of it.

Wednesday, October 30, 2019 • 6 p.m. – 8 p.m.

Freedom Temple Church of God in Christ 1459 West 74th Street • Chicago, IL 60636

The open house will be accessible to persons with disabilities. Anyone needing special assistance should contact 312-561-3140 extension 106. Persons planning to attend who will need a sign language interpreter or similar accommodations should notify the Illinois Department of Transportation’s TTY/ TTD number at (800) 526-0844/or 711 at least five days prior to the meeting.

Learn more about the 75th St. CIP at www.75thcip.org Questions? Contact info@75thcip.org.

8. PITI (Principal, Interest, Taxes and Insurance): Together, principal, interest, taxes and insurance make up your total monthly mortgage payment.

Calculating your total monthly

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personal finance classes, a new survey suggests that generation Z is on board with the trend.

Seventy-six percent of recent high school graduates agree personal finance education should be required, according to a national survey by Experian. The survey, among 18 and 19-year-olds, revealed that 46 percent say they have a lot of unanswered questions about money and finances, and feel “uncertain” and “nervous,” when it comes to managing finances.

To launch a successful financial future, consider the following tips:

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PERSONAL FINANCE Adulting: Financial Tips for Gen Z (StatePoint) As more states nationwide adopt laws requiring high schools to offer

• Learn Credit Card Basics: Before leveraging the benefits of a credit card, understand the terms and conditions and the potential impact it can have on your credit score. Read the paperwork thoroughly and ask a parent or friend to help you with anything you don’t understand. Only use credit for an amount you can pay off entirely each statement. Interest rates are high, so you don’t want to be paying more for what you purchase.

• Study Student Loan Requirements: Study the different types of student loans available, and then run the numbers.

Before borrowing a dime, figure out what your payments are actually likely to be, and make sure you can truly afford to borrow without putting other financial necessities at risk.

• Open a Checking Account: You can open a checking account by filling out an application online or in person, usually in just a few minutes, as long as you have the necessary documentation banks require.

The bank will issue you a debit card, allowing you to pay for items using funds from your account. Monitor the flow of funds by checking your account online frequently.

• Monitor Credit Scores: There are three national credit bureaus that may have a credit report file for you once you start using credit. What’s in your file is what is used to calculate a credit score that lenders look at to determine if you’re a good candidate for credit. You can obtain a free credit report annually at annualcreditreport.com.

If you’re responsible for your cell phone bill and utility bills, consider using Experian Boost – a free online tool – to add these accounts to your Experian credit file and potentially increase your credit score instantly. A consistent history of on-time payments may increase your credit score.

• Budget: Learning to budget is essential, teaching you to set goals, live within your means and manage your money responsibly. Create a spreadsheet and review it on an ongoing basis.

• Use New Tech Tools: Unfortunately, the topic of money management doesn’t always appeal to young people. Only 38 percent of those surveyed find personal finance topics interesting. Luckily, techdriven tools like apps and YouTube tutorials are making financial education more interesting and accessible to generation Z. More tips for getting financially savvy, can be found at experian.com/education.

“Understanding money basics means not having to learn financial lessons the hard way,” says Rod Griffin, director of public education for Experian. “It’s important that we reach students early, before they start making decisions about student loans, credit cards, buying a car and renting an apartment.” __________________________________

EDUCATION Helpful Hacks to Ease School Hassles (StatePoint) Whether your life revolves around cubby holes and recess or rolling campus hills and term papers, helpful hacks can ensure students, teachers and families are organized in dorm rooms, classrooms and households.

It’s all about having supplies on hand that keep items tidy and make cleaning easier. Even regular household staples can be repurposed to help students stay organized. For instance, plastic cups in a muffin tin can become an instant art supply holder, and binder clips can separate tangled cords and chargers. An over-the-door shoe organizer can make for great storage space

for snacks or other dorm room essentials.

When heading to the store, consider versatile products like EasyLiner brand shelf liners by Duck brand, which can be used to line desk drawers, protect craft tables, decorate mini dorm room fridges and more to help items stay in place, guard against spills and add a touch of personal style.

Shelf liners can even be used to make book covers and mouse pads.

With proper organization and the right tools, everyone can concentrate on school work and a successful year. __________________________________

Darrell Garth

President /Publisher

Janice Garth

Sales Manager General Manager

Editorial

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