South End Citizen 11-10-2021

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 Nov. 10, 2021

| Vol. 54 | No. 40 | www.citizennewspapergroup.com

SOUTH END

RESOURCES EXIST FOR TENANTS FACING EVICTION The Illinois eviction moratorium ended on Oct. 4, which means renters are at risk of losing their housing if they do not pay rent. The moratorium was placed during the COVID-19 pandemic to help people that were not able to pay rent due to job loss because of shutdowns and quarantines.

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Kenyatta Land, managing attorney at Land Law Firm, has more than 20 years in the real estate industry. Photo provided by Kenyatta Land

Financial Impacts of COVID-19 Undermine Women’s Retirement Security

FASHION: Aoki Lee Simmons Stars In Yumi Katsura Fall 2022 Bridal Collection

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Serving The Black Community For Decades |

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NEWS briefly GOVERNOR PRITZKER SIGNS EXECUTIVE ORDER DECLARING GUN VIOLENCE A PUBLIC HEALTH Governor J.B. Pritzker issued Executive Order 2021-29 to support IDHS in its implementation of the RPSA, a critical component of the violence prevention plan. The newly formed OFVP, established by the act, will coordinate with the Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH), ICJIA, the Illinois Department of Healthcare and Family Services (HFS), and other relevant state agencies to establish a public health approach to reducing gun violence.

RPSA requires HFS to submit a State Plan Amendment to Illinois’ Medicaid program that could result in federal matching reimbursement for some of these services.

Further advancing the Pritzker administration’s work to reduce violence across the state, last month the Illinois State Police (ISP) announced a significant increase in its gun license revocation efforts as part of its larger work to rebuild the Firearms Services Bureau with a focus on public safety.

Since 2019, ISP’s Division of Criminal Investigation has conducted more than 450 firearms enforcement details, with over 1,300 prohibited persons brought into compliance and over 10,000 firearms dispositions accounted for.

“Chicago needs real solutions to the violence and health disparities that plague our communities. The state’s response will provide much needed support and resources to people who will benefit the most,” said Yolanda Fields, Executive Director of Breakthrough Urban Ministries.

To view the executive order visit https://www2.illinois. gov/sites/GOV/Pages/default.aspx. More information about the Violence Prevention Plan is available at https:// vpp.icjia.cloud/.

CPS REACHES AGREEMENT WITH CTU ON $10 MILLION COMMITMENT TO SUPPORT SCHOOL STAFFING Chicago Public Schools (CPS) CEO Pedro Martinez today announced an agreement with the Chicago Teachers Union (CTU) that allocates $10 million to support school staffing. The plan pauses most REACH teacher evaluations for the second year following the recent Illinois State Board of Education decision to make those evaluations optional.

CPS’ $10 million commitment will prioritize hiring additional cadre substitutes, and may also be used to cover expedited compensation for missed teacher prep time, compensation for teachers covering additional classes, and expanding the substitute teacher pools to ensure classrooms have adequate coverage during the 2021-22 school year. CPS, like many districts across the country, has faced a number of employee vacancies amid the COVID-19 pandemic.

“Our schools have been incredibly resilient throughout this pandemic, and CPS is committed to supporting our dedicated principals and staff as we navigate the unique challenges of the past and current school years,” said CPS CEO Pedro Martinez. “By giving our schools more funding and flexibility, we can ease the burden on administrators and educators so they focus on their most important job: preparing every Chicago Public Schools student for success in the classroom and beyond.”

District leaders also agreed Tuesday to pause REACH teacher evaluations for the second consecutive year except for teachers on remediation plans and probationary teachers working towards tenure following the State Board of Education’s decision last month to provide such flexibility amid staff and supply shortages. CPS created and implemented REACH (Recognizing Educators Advancing Chicago’s Students) educator evaluation and support system in response to 2010 state law requiring more robust educator evaluations, including classroom observations and student growth measures. Principals and other administrators may still prioritize providing feedback to teachers in order to continue to improve their teaching practice.

Resources Exist For Tenants Facing Eviction Continued from page 1

BY TIA CAROL JONES

The Illinois eviction moratorium ended on Oct. 4, which means renters are at risk of losing their housing if they do not pay rent. The moratorium was placed during the COVID-19 pandemic to help people that were not able to pay rent due to job loss because of shutdowns and quarantines.

Changes in employment status created a domino effect for those who could not pay rent. Not only did it affect those people, but it also affected landlords who were unable to pay their mortgage because their tenants did not pay rent.

Help exists for people who have been unable to pay rent due to changes in employment status. Kenyatta Land is a real estate attorney with the Land Law Firm. Land has landlords coming to him because they want back payment for rent from tenants who had not been able to pay so that they can pay their mortgage.

On the other hand, Land has tenants coming to him fearful because they are in jeopardy of being evicted.

Land sees a lack of communication when it comes to what resources are

available to tenants who might be at risk.

There is also a lack of communication between renters and landlords, created because of non-payment of rent, which has caused the tenant/ landlord relationship has soured.

“Both parties are on their own separate island, and they are not communicating as it relates to the resources,” he said.

“It’s in the landlords and the tenant’s best interest to communicate.”

Land has tried to bridge the gap to bring tenants and landlords together so they can get the necessary resources, so there is no big economic damage. He has them sit down to see how they can work together. The goal is to come up with a resolution that does not result in a bitter court dispute.

“It’s basically open communication, open dialogue, access to the resources, explaining to both parties the resources that are available and the process of which they can go through to access those resources,” he said. People might have heard about resources but not sure of where to go or the process of getting the help they need. Because Self Help is not applied in the State of Illinois, landlords must contact the Sheriff ’s Office to

pursue the eviction process.

The Spanish Coalition for Housing has access to resources for tenants and homeowners who might be facing eviction.

Vanessa Sanchez, the housing counselor with the Spanish Coalition for Housing, has seen more people coming in for assistance since the moratorium has ended.

Sanchez highlighted two programs.

The All Chicago provides homeowners and tenants six months of rent or mortgage. The Emergency Rental Assistance Program (ERAP) provides 12 months of back rent, as well as up to three months of rent for tenants.

Sanchez said some landlords are sending their tenants to the Spanish Coalition for Housing to get help with their rent. The organization also provides help for landlords. Landlords have been coming in for eviction notices, as well as loan modifications so they don’t lose their properties. The Spanish Coalition for Housing works with Foreclosure Prevention Program.

For more information about Kenyatta Land and the Land Law Firm, visit landlawfirm.com. For more information on the Spanish Coalition for Housing, visit www.sc4housing.org.

City Of Chicago Receives Five Development Proposals For City’s First Integrated Casino-Resort Selected proposal will be granted Chicago’s sole casino owner’s license Bids were due on the City of Chicago’s request for proposal (RFP) for its first integrated casino-resort on Friday, Oct. 29.

Five proposals were submitted for consideration in developing a world-class casino-resort and entertainment experience in Chicago with the goal of being awarded the city’s sole casino owner’s license.

The City of Chicago received a total of five proposals from the following applicants (listed in alphabetical order): Bally’s Corporation submitted two proposals for two different sites; its casino operations would be self-managed HR Chicago, LLC submitted a proposal for a single site; its casino operations would be managed by an affiliate, Hard Rock International.

Rivers Chicago at McCormick, LLC submitted a proposal for a single site; its casino operations would be managed by Rush Street Gaming, LLC. Rivers 78 Gaming, LLC submitted a proposal for a single site; its casino operations would be managed by Rush Street Gaming, LLC. The selected proposal will have the exclusive opportunity to own and operate a casino-resort in the country’s third-largest metropolitan market.

“We are thrilled to have received five high-caliber proposals from Bally’s Corporation; HR Chicago, LLC; Rivers Chicago at McCormick, LLC; and Rivers 78 Gaming, LLC,” said Chicago Mayor Lori E. Lightfoot. “The submission of bid responses represents a major step toward the thoughtful development of a casino-resort that uplifts our businesses, employs and empowwww.citizennewspapergroup.com

ers our residents and encourages tourism. We look forward to the next phase of discussions to bring this world-class entertainment experience to our city.”

An initiative three decades in the making, the Chicago casino remains one of the country’s most attractive casino-resort development opportunities. A global gateway city with 9.5 million residents, Chicago welcomed 60 million domestic and 1.5 million international visitors in 2019. The selected bidder will be able to incorporate its property into the City’s vibrant cultural scene, robust public transit infrastructure, and highly diversified economy.

Chicago is one of the world’s most dynamic cities and this license represents a once-in-a-generation opportunity for a casino operator in the heart of a major American city.

The holder of the Chicago owner’s license has the opportunity to operate a temporary casino for up to 24 months (subject to a 12-month extension) and, thereafter, a permanent casino located in the City. Applicants selected through the RFP process then must apply to the state for the owner’s license and meet the state’s licensing requirements.

Now that RFP responses have been received, a review committee made up of a cross-section of City departments will determine the recommended winning bidder. This recommendation will be made by the review committee to Mayor Lightfoot who will ultimately make the determination with City Council approval.

More information on the proposal summaries will be shared in the following weeks.

CITIZEN | South End | Week of Nov. 10, 2021

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NEWS

Pilot Program Delivers Reparative Transfers to Black Americans for Wealth-Building Citizen-Driven Program Moves the United States to Becoming a More Perfect Union reparative transfers for homeownership. Homeownership also fosters a sense of community, and encourages stability and business development.

BY REPARATION GENERATION

DETROIT PRLog -- The chilling videos of the murders of George Floyd, Ahmaud Arbery, and Eric Garner, as well as a deeper understanding of the historic horrors like the Tulsa Race Massacres have reinvigorated the debate about what repair is required, and brought the word reparations to the forefront of a conversation in America.

Reparation Generation launches as a new, citizen-driven approach to pursuing restoration for disenfranchised descendants of American slavery. They are a multiracial group of Americans proudly joining a national movement for truth and reconciliation. They seek to show reparations in action, and in turn, drive momentum to pass federal reparations for Black Americans.

Amid ongoing and acrimonious debate about the idea of reparations among politicians and the media, Reparation Generation was formed to demonstrate what reparations for Black Americans could actually look like in action. Their Black-led, white-financed strategy directs privately-funded “reparative transfers” to Black Americans for home ownership and other wealth-building pursuits.

Reparation Generation Co-Chair Kiko Davis Snoddy says, “Our vision is for this country that we love to become the “more perfect union” our nation’s founders promised. Equity for Black Americans is good for all Americans. Systemic racism has kept the U.S. from reaching its full financial and economic potential.”

How Reparative Transfers Work Beginning November 1, 2021, Reparation Generation

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will make reparative transfers of $25,000 to up to 10 Black Americans who are descendants of slavery to be used for homeownership in the Detroit area. The recipients of these reparative transfers are not receiving a charitable donation, a gift or welfare.

These financial transfers represent money that was never paid, was stolen, or denied to their families.

“The American truism that hard work equals reward ignores the social inequities that slavery and ongoing structural racism have created for Black Americans,” says Reparation Generation Co-Chair David Mayer.

Government-sanctioned discriminatory practices such as “redlining” and racial covenants denied Blacks the same home-buying, and thus wealth-building opportunities enjoyed by

Whites. “Even today, a vast number of Americans wrongly believe that their ancestors simply reaped the benefits of their hard work.

However, through a more careful reading of our hard history, it becomes clear that the same hard work by Black Americans more often than not resulted in little success in getting ahead.”

Why Homeownership?

According to a 2016 Federal Reserve Board report, the average net worth of White Americans is $171,000, while the average Black family has a net worth of only $17,600.

Financial experts agree the most prominent path to wealth building in the US is through homeownership, and Reparation Generation aims to support this growth with $25,000

Why Starting In Detroit?

Detroit became a Great Migration city as Black Americans, who were direct descendants of slaves, left the Jim Crow South. Detroit, equally famous as Motown or The Motor City, was a hub of American culture and Black prosperity. With the decline of the automotive industry, and the pernicious history of “urban renewal,” institutional racism shifted resources to the white suburbs, and left a large portion of Detroit with a devastating decline in economic resources.

Today, Detroit is in the midst of a renewal. Reparation Generation’s Black founders have selected Detroit as the location for their proof-of-concept pilot program, to establish the process, and to show the value of reparations. https://www.youtube.com/ watch?v=lNW-BWmU300 Why Now? With an estimated $68 trillion in wealth in the U.S. about to change hands from one generation to the next, David Mayer says, “It is time we take an honest look at what we have, who we owe, and how we’ll all benefit when the debt is repaid.”

Kiko Davis Snoddy summarizes Reparation Generation by simply stating, “This is a gathering of fellow Americans coming together to help right a wrong that has been festering far too long.”

To learn more about Reparation Generation and to listen to the “truth-telling” stories from the Founders, visit www.reparationgeneration.org.

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POLITICAL Affairs U. S. HOUSE SPEAKER PELOSI and U. S. CONGRESSMAN DANNY DAVIS CELEBRATES DIWALI IN WASHINGTON D.C.

Congressional and

November 3: U. S. Congressman Danny K Davis of Chicago, Illinois hosted a reception to Celebrate India’s oldest largest festival- Diwali on November 3 evening at the National Democratic

Club, Washington D.C. U. S. House Speaker Nancy Pelosi lit the traditional Indian lamp to signify Diwali and headlined the event. Several prominent elected officials including Congressman Richard Neal, (D- Massachusetts), Chair, U. S. House Ways & Means Committee among others joined the historic celebrations.

Dr Vijay G Prabhakar, Indian American Community Leader from Chicago said that this Diwali celebration with the participation of Speaker Nancy Pelosi, the third-highest elected official of USA was significant because for the first time since 2009 Diwali was NOT being celebrated in the White House. President Obama was the first U. S. President to celebrate Diwali in the White House in 2009, and thereafter all Presidents annually celebrated Diwali.

Dr Vijay G Prabhakar said that the White House not celebrating Diwali this year 2021 had triggered them to organize official celebrations for the first time with the U. S. House Speaker, the State of Illinois House Speaker, the City of Chicago Council and Cook County Treasurer’s office to showcase India’s heritage during this festival season.

Neil Khot, National Chairman, Indian American Business Coalition praised the inspiring leadership of Dr Vijay G Prabhakar, President, American Multi-Ethnic Coalition and President, Indian American Business Coalition, USA for facilitating this historic event at Washington D. C. and for also organizing Diwali celebrations in City of Chicago Council, Cook County Treasurer’s Office and The State of Illinois government for the first time in 184 years.

Kishor Mehta, Emeritus Chair, Congressman Danny Davis’s MultiEthnic Advisory Task Force thanked U. S. Congressman Danny Davis, who was the only Congressman from Midwest who welcomed India’s Prime Minister Modi to the United States in New York 2014 and in Houston in 2019, for hosting the Diwali Celebration. Mehta added that Congressman Davis has been an ardent supporter of strong US- India ties especially recalling his pioneering efforts during the Covid pandemic.

Anica Dubey, Global Outreach Chair, American Multi-Ethnic Coalition said that this year 2021, Washington D. C.’s Diwali celebrations is truly a triumph of good over evil.

Dr Sreenivas Reddy, Member, National Council on White House History said that Indian American leaders have participated in this celebration to usher in a spirit of prosperity and peace with the Biden Harris administration and strengthen U.S. -Indo ties.

Community Activist and Renowned Bharat Natyam Dance exponent Indrani Davaluri gave a traditional welcome to U. S. Speaker Nancy Pelosi and Chairman, U. S. House Ways and Means Committee Congressmen Richard Neal at the Diwali celebrations in Washington D. C. Lion Hina Trivedi, Founder, Chicago Indo U. S. Lions Club thanked the over hundred guests who attended the celebrations and singled out Tumia Romero, Chief of Staff of Congressman Danny Davis for hosting this historic celebration at the National Democratic Club at Washington D. C. Indian American Business Coalition, USA, American Multi-Ethnic Coalition,- AMEC, World Federation of Tamil Youth, Chicago IndoU. S. Lions Club, and the Congressional Multi-Ethnic Advisory Task Force- MEATF are facilitating similar Diwali celebrations for the first time ever at Chicago City Council on November 4, Cook County Treasurer’s Office on November 5 and the State of Illinois House Speaker’s office the week of November 8, 2021.

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BUSINESS

Savoy Magazine Announces The 2021 Most Influential Black Corporate Directors ATLANTA PRNewswire -- Savoy magazine announced the release of its 2021 Most Influential Black Corporate Directors listing in the upcoming fall issue. Savoy’s fall issue features a directory of 704 directors serving on the boards of public companies. As the leading business magazine reporting on African American success and achievement, Savoy’s Most Influential Black Corporate directory is a prestigious listing of executives, influencers, and achievers active on the boards of the world’s leading corporations and organizations.

“Savoy is proud to present the 2021 Most Influential Black Corporate Directors. In this issue, we assembled an elite representation of African American men and women recognized for their executive and business leadership in national and global-leading corporations,” said L.P. Green, II, CEO & Publisher of Savoy magazine. “These innovative trailblazers have led efforts to foster growth for some of the country’s highest-performing companies throughout and beyond the US market. It is our duty and honor to chronicle these inspiring executives, their distinguished careers, and the corporations that demonstrate inclusive board composition in Savoy.”

This 2021 dual cover, double edition spans two magazines, one featuring Kenneth Chenault, former Chairman and CEO of American Express, on the cover, and Kenneth Frazier, Executive Chairman of Merck, gracing the other. The Chenault edition contains 452 pages, including the prestigious directors listed by last names A-J. The Frazier edition contains 436 pages, including directors listed by last names K-Z. Totaling 888 pages combined, the fall issue of Savoy ranks as the largest magazine

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by pages targeting the African American consumer ever published. The second largest was Savoy’s 2016 summer issue, with dual covers totaling 532 pages.

As a co-founder with Frazier, Chenault launched the OneTen Coalition in 2020 to build a robust opportunity pipeline for Black talent in America. With an unwavering commitment to diversifying the workforce and a strong stance against racial injustice, Chenault makes a meaningful difference in people’s lives. A visionary change agent, Frazier leads diverse teams and businesses committed to equally serving every community, brings better health initiatives to those who may not otherwise receive the resources, and stands strong on social injustice and racial inequality issues across the nation.

The prestigious trailblazers active on

boards of global-leading corporations and organizations are listed by last names A-J in the Chenault cover publication.

The second half listed by last names K-Z appear in the Frazier cover publication.

Also included in this 2021 Most Influential Black Corporate Directors list are celebrities and athletes serving on corporate boards, such as Shawn “JAY-Z” Carter (Square), Larry Fitzgerald, Jr. (DICK’s Sporting Goods), Shaquille O’Neal (Papa John’s International) and Serena Williams (Momentive & Poshmark).

“Savoy continues to be at the forefront of comprehensive coverage of the professional success and achievements of African Americans,” added Green. “We offer congratulations and appreciation to the directors recognized in Savoy’s 2021 Most Influential Black Corporate Directors edition for their inspiring leadership.”

As Founder & CEO of Savoy Venture Partners, Green recently published a thought leadership booklet, 12 Best Practices to Cultivate Board Excellence: Knowledge and Insights from Conversations with More Than 300 Corporate Directors Currently Serving on Public Boards. The publication outlines 12 best practices based on his conversations with leaders active on boards of some of the nation’s leading public companies. Green has also founded the Savoy Directors Forum, an inaugural event planned for fall 2022 in Naples, Florida. The Savoy Directors Forum will offer two days of sharing best practices from influential, diverse board directors and thought leaders on navigating boards and companies into the years ahead.

The magazine is available for purchase at savoynetwork.com and on Amazon.com.

Moore Impact to Scale Its Impact NEW YORK PRNewswire -- Moore Impact receives investment to scale its impact as one of the only Black-founded and woman-led philanthropic intermediaries in the United States, with support from Pivotal Ventures, a Melinda French Gates company. The organization will reinvest resources in “Power Champions,” a cohort of Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC) led enterprises working at the intersection of racial equity and COVID-19 response to foster their long-term sustainability and innovation.

Financing for Moore Impact will strengthen and enhance the operational capacity of the organization to identify, respond to, and invest in BIPOC-led and serving social enterprises.

Resources will also be reinvested

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through multi-year general operating grants and one-time rapid response aid to nearly 30 Power Champion organizations based in the West, Midwest, and Southern United States. With support from Pivotal Ventures, Moore Impact will direct critical investments to communities of color and reverse philanthropy’s disinterest in BIPOC-led social change.

Moore Impact Scales Impact and Bolsters the Sustainability of BIPOC-led Enterprises with Support from Pivotal Ventures “The convergence of the COVID-19 pandemic, systemic racism, and historical economic inequities have devastated

communities of color across the country. Philanthropy must resource institutions founded and led by BIPOC community members whose leaders know best how to solve the ongoing systemic challenges impacting people of color,” said Yvonne L. Moore, President of Moore Impact. “In partnership with Pivotal Ventures, we can help the philanthropic sector shift resources to fortify BIPOC-led enterprises mobilizing to alleviate the overwhelming impact of these compounding crises on marginalized people.”

Despite the charitable nature of philanthropy, the sector has consistently overlooked capacity-building and funding for BIPOC leaders who have the most lived experience in the very challenges the field

is aiming to resolve. The lack of diverse leadership and low funding levels towards leaders of color are clear indicators of the sector’s shortcomings, with devastating consequences for communities of color.

“Providing resources to women of color-led organizations who are on the front lines of advancing progress toward racial equity in the U.S. is fundamental to our mission at Pivotal Ventures,” said Ada Williams Prince, Senior Advisor, Program Strategy and Investment of Pivotal Ventures. “We are proud to support a diverse group of partners, such as Moore Impact, to help support enterprises who have been impacted by the economic downturn of COVID-19.”

To learn more, visit https:// moorephilanthropy.com/impact/.

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Fintech In Action Invests $1.7 Million Black PR Wire - Fintech In Action (“FIA”) -- a coalition dedicated to accelerating progress, innovation and opportunity for Black students and professionals in finance and fintech -- has made considerable advancements the past year, following a $1.7 million investment to create Black equity in finance. The coalition (comprised of financial firms, community stakeholders and fintech organizations), has more than doubled its partners, and has cemented its stake as a resource for Black talent across the industry.

Formed in June 2020, FIA was a response to the industry’s need to prioritize racial equity and inclusion.

Due to ongoing and heightened inequities, FIA set forth a strategic plan to garner like-minded, action-oriented partners, to increase inclusion of Black students and professionals within the fintech and finance industries.

FIA objectives were targeted by focusing on pipeline, hiring, promotion and retention.

Black PR Wire “There is not a lack of talent in the Black community, but a lack of opportunity,” said William Capuzzi, CEO of Apex Clearing, one of FIA’s founding partners. “Together, along with the coalition members, we’re investing in the future of what ought to be. Our desire is to make our industry one of inclusion for all those who choose to make it their livelihood. It takes more than writing a check. More than a social media post. More than words-- it takes action.”

In one year, FIA has honored its commitment to equity and inclusion, and has achieved the following plus more: Doubling the number of partners and participating firms. The coalition began with 18 firms and has doubled participants. View the growing list here. $1.7 Million in funding invested, with $1 Million invested to the Greenwood Project (a Chicago-based non-profit organization dedicated to creating successful career pathways in financial services for young, high-achieving minority students).

All Greenwood Project seniors are negotiating multiple full-time offers for employment.

160% increase of Greenwood Project’s internship cohort 250+ students served from 4 cities (Houston, Dallas, New York City, Chicago) “FIA has made incredible strides during its first year. Although we’ve witnessed growth, there is much work to do in creating economic equity for Black students and professionals in finance. This is only the beginning,” said FIA Executive Director Michelle Williams. “Despite the challenges ahead, we are thankful for our current partners and seek to acquire additional support from financial firms, community stakeholders and others, in order to drive systemic change. We are committed to the work and look forward to the impact that FIA, its partners and supporters will have on the industry for the future.”

FIA will continue enlarging its coalition and partners, as it seeks to expand to new action-based programs and initiatives in the years to come. With a strategic emphasis on more place-based partners for internships, job placements, education and exposure, FIA’s goal of effectuating growth for Black talent within the financial services and fintech industries, is set to achieve considerable impact for the remainder of 2021, into 2022, and beyond.

CITIZEN | South End | Week of Nov. 10, 2021

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FASHION

H&M Teams Up With Actor John Boyega On Men’s Collection

Aoki Lee Simmons Stars In Yumi Katsura Fall 2022 Bridal Collection NEW YORK PRNewswire -- Today, Yumi Katsura released their latest bridal campaign, which stars model Aoki Lee Simmons.

The images show a sultry Aoki posing in bridal regalia at the decadent gardens of New Jersey’s Van Vleck House and Gardens.

The second daughter of music mogul Russell Simmons, the co-founder of Def Jam Records, and the internationally-renowned super model-turned-Baby Phat founder Kimora Lee Simmons. The 19-year-old multilingual ingenue not only works as a model but is currently a junior at Harvard University studying The Classics -- she’s scheduled to graduate in 2023.

The campaign theme “Time to Celebrate,” by designer and creative director Paulette Cleghorn and shot by fashion photographer Joy Strotz was inspired by the need to find joy and to celebrate the blessing of life after this post-pandemic recalibration of our collective values, said Cleghorn.

“I literally feel like I am living inside a fairytale” said Simmons, “Every dress has its own magic and I could not be more excited to be part of this campaign!”

“The diversity of this season’s Yumi Katsura Collection, will resonate with contemporary brides seeking classic elements of tradition commingled with beautiful, modern touches. The Yumi Katsura bride celebrates life and her unique identity by intentionally making an effort to see the positive and embrace this moment of time and life with real love and gratitude and the gowns reflect that,” Cleghorn continued.

The Yumi Katsura brand, is one of Japan’s and the world’s most prolific

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design houses, whose wedding dresses are considered modern masterpieces.

Katsura has showcased the most expensive wedding dress to date, valued at one billion Japanese yen (US $8.5 million).

Made from silk-satin and embellished with zari-embroidery handiwork, the dress is decorated with 1,000 pearls, a green 8.8 carat diamond emblem, and a 5-carat white gold diamond, one of the two existing in the world.

Currently the Yumi Katsura Couture brand is available at fine retail salons across the globe, with flagship salons in Tokyo, Shanghai and Paris. Retail prices begin at $3500.00USD .

For more information, please visit the website on www.yumikatsuracouture.com

NEW YORK PRNewswire -- H&M is proud to announce the upcoming release of Edition

by John Boyega, a more sustainable menswear collection worn by one of the world’s most inspiring actors and changemakers. The new Edition collection features autumn’s key looks constructed from recycled, organic and innovative materials, such as Vegea™ — a vegan alternative to leather, partly made from waste from the winemaking industry. Edition by John Boyega will be available at hm.com and in selected stores 28 October.

“John Boyega is a brave leader of a generation that’s speaking up for change, believing there’s a better way to treat each other and the planet. H&M is proud to team up with John for Edition by John Boyega, a contemporary, more sustainable collection for men,” says Ross Lydon, Head of Menswear Design at H&M. Golden Globe winner John Boyega has earned recognition not only for his acting, but also for standing up for the changes he wants to see in the world. In June 2020, he seized the megaphone and gave a heartfelt speech at a Black Lives Matter protest in London. For Boyega, voicing your truth is one of the most powerful tools for driving empathy and change.

Now he joins forces with H&M on the release of Edition by John Boyega, an uncompromising menswear collection that pushes for sustainability and celebrates the changemakers that try to do good for the world.

“I’m excited to collaborate with H&M on a collection that aligns my passions with purpose.

Sustainability to me, means thinking about longevity for the benefit of those coming after us.

This collaboration has already birthed opportunities for fresh dynamic creatives. Two birds with one stone,” says John Boyega.

Edition by John Boyega fuses effortless workwear pieces with floral prints and tie-dye patterns.

The collection is made using sustainable materials, which is in line with H&M’s commitment to move fashion into a more sustainable future. In the new menswear line, cotton is organic or recycled from textile-production waste or post-consumer waste, nylons and polyesters are recycled, and viscose fibers are from sustainable sources.

With each piece, Edition by John Boyega proves the season’s key pieces can be made in a more sustainable way. A chore jacket (Europe online exclusive) boasts a patchwork denim design constructed from collected denim garments remade into a

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contemporary style. A striking checked coat, partly made from premium Italian recycled wool, is sure to make an unforgettable impression. A timeless organic cotton striped shirt has a roomy cut, while a zip-off puffer jacket (online exclusive worldwide), crafted from the innovative material Vegea™, can be quickly transformed from jacket to vest.

Ideal for the new season, shirts and trousers have a relaxed feel, as do a knitted green cardigan and a yellow rollneck, all with a roomy silhouette.

A pink tie-dye sweatshirt and T-shirts are emblazoned with the hopeful reminder “A better present leads to a better future”, alongside a graphic of planet Earth in action. The collection is completed by a tote bag with these graphics, as well as a floral cap and pink tie-dye canvas trainers.

John Boyega is a British-Nigerian actor and producer, known for his role as Finn in the Star Wars sequel trilogy films and, most recently, for his Golden Globe winning performance in the film series Small Axe. Off screen, Boyega is admired worldwide for serving fashion-forward styles, and for being a passionate advocate for racial justice.

H & M Hennes & Mauritz AB (publ) was founded in Sweden in 1947 and is quoted on Nasdaq Stockholm. H&M’s business idea is to offer fashion and quality at the best price in a sustainable way. In addition to H&M, the group includes the brands COS, Monki, Weekday, & Other Stories, H&M HOME and ARKET as well as Afound. The H&M group has 53 online markets and approximately 4,950 stores in 74 markets including franchise markets. In 2020, net sales were SEK 187 billion. The number of employees amounts to approximately 153,000. For further information, visit hmgroup.com.

Belk Announces Black History Month T-Shirt Design Contest CHARLOTTE, N.C., PRNewswire -- Belk announced a new t-shirt design contest for high school and college students. The retailer is encouraging students to create a t-shirt design that is based off of the concept of what Black History means to them. The contest winner will have their shirt produced and sold on www.belk.com, as well as being sold in the winner’s local Belk store.

The winning t-shirt design will be highlighted in the company’s The Culture Shop collection for Black History Month this coming February 2022.

Plus, the winning designer will get a

Winner’s Design Will be Sold on Belk.com and Also Receives a $2500 Donation to Their School and a $500 Belk Gift Card $500 Belk gift card, as well as a $2,500 donation to their school, to go along with the bragging rights of having a design for sale with Belk. Second place will earn a $250 Belk gift card, and third place will receive at $100 Belk gift card. Belk plans on selecting the winner and surprising them with the news in-person at the winner’s school.

The Culture Shop is part of Belk’s commitment to better reflect the customers and communities we serve.

The launch and evolution of this initiative was a collaborative effort between Belk’s Black employee resource group (B.R.I.G.H.T.), cross-functional internal partners, as well as diversity and inclusion leadership.

Featured collections of The Culture Shop rotate online and in-store year-round, celebrating several cultural observances, such as Women’s History Month and LGBTQ+ Pride Month, and to support continued www.citizennewspapergroup.com

growth of Belk’s diverse product offering and vendors. Each collection featured is accompanied by an investment in a local or national non-profit organization providing for underserved communities.

The contest is open for submissions, and the contest will run through Thanksgiving (11/25). To enter, please visit www.events.belk. com/BHMtshirtcontest where you can download the design template

and review the rules of the contest.

Charlotte-based Belk, Inc., a privately-owned department store, opened its first store in 1888, beginning a legacy of selling great products at great prices, treating customers like family, and giving back to the community. Today, Belk serves customers at nearly 300 Belk stores in 16 Southeastern states, at belk. com and through the mobile app.

For over 130 years, Belk has proudly put customers and community at the center of what they do, supporting local charities, organizations, and families when they need it most.

6 | CITIZEN | South End | Week of Nov. 10, 2021

Call

Suspicious Dumping to Waterways or Sewers NEWS

Waste needs to be properly 1-800-332-DUMP to report: treated and disposed of or it

Financial Impacts of

can harm our waterways and Waterway Blockages treatment plants. If you see Debris and obstructions in waterways can cause something suspicious, call us. flooding. Our stream maintenance crews and debris boats work throughout our region to keep our waterways clean and flowing well.

Illegal or Suspicious Dumping to Waterways or Sewers

Waste needs to be properly treated and disposed of or it can harm our waterways and treatment plants. If you see something suspicious, call us.

Odors

What’s that smell? We are working to mitigate odors at our facilities and aim to be good neighbors. Odor reports help us improve our systems, so please do your part: if you smell something, let us know.

New report examines the retirement prospects and Odors risks for women workers

Wastewater treatment doesn’t improve retirement security.

LOS ANGELES PRNewswire have We are working -- Moreto thanstink! half of working “Despite progress made in rewomen (51 percent) indicate cent decades, women continue to to prevent nuissance odors their financial situation has been be at greater risk of not achieving at our facilities and aim to be negatively impacted by the pana financially secure retirement than men, in large part due to demic, according to Life inOdor the good neighbors. reports the gender pay gap and time out COVID-19 Pandemic: Women’s help us improve our systems, of the workforce for parenting Health, Finances, and Retirement caregiving,” said Catherine Outlook, a study released so please do yourtoday part: ifand you Collinson, CEO and president of by nonprofit Transamerica Center smell something, say something.

Transamerica Institute and TCRS. for Retirement Studies® (TCRS) in

“Amid the pandemic, many womcollaboration with Transamerica Institute®. en have been stretched beyond their limits, balancing work and As part of TCRS’ 21st Annual family. Given these pressures, Retirement Survey of Workers, one some have given up their emof the largest and longest-running surveys of its kind, the new study ployment and dropped out of the examines the retirement outlook of workforce altogether.” women in the workforce. It is based The Financial Well-Being of on a survey of employed workers Women Workers conducted in late 2020 and contains recommendations for women, The survey findings illustrate the employers, and policymakers to experience of women workers amid Reclamation District of Greater Chicago

We want to hear from you.

We want to hear from you. You can also submit reports at mwrd.org and via our iOS app.

You can also submit reports Metropolitan Water Reclamation District of Greater Chicago

at mwrd.org and via our ios app.

mwrd.org

Metropolitan Water

Family Caregiving

Get the Family Caregiving Support You Need, When You Need it.

Your caregiving journey can be challenging in all kinds of ways.

At AARP Family Caregiving, we’re here to help you get answers, connect with other family caregivers and find local resources close to home. So you can take care of what matters most.

To learn more, visit AARP.org/BlackCommunity.

/AARPBlackCommunity @AARPBlackCom

CITIZEN | South End | Week of Nov. 10, 2021

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NEWS

COVID-19 Undermine Women’s Retirement Security the pandemic and their financial stress.

Forty-two percent of women workers experienced one or more impacts to their employment as a result of the pandemic, including reduced work hours (28 percent), reduced salaries (13 percent), furloughs (9 percent), layoffs (8 percent), and/or early retirement (3 percent).

Six in 10 made adjustments due to pandemic-related financial strain (60 percent), such as reducing day-to-day expenses (35 percent), dipping into savings accounts (25 percent), and/or accumulating new credit card debt (17 percent).

Approximately one in eight women skipped health care (13 percent), borrowed money from others (13 percent), and reduced or stopped contributing to retirement accounts (12 percent).

Sixty-two percent cite paying off some form of debt as a financial priority. Other financial priorities include saving for retirement (56 percent), building emergency sav-

PRNewsFoto/Transamerica Center for Retirement Studies

ings (46 percent), and just getting by to cover basic living expenses (32 percent).

Almost four in 10 say they are having trouble making ends meet (38 percent) — and 42 percent often feel anxious and depressed.

Emergency savings are low.

Women have only $4,000 (median) in emergency savings. Emergency savings increase with age: Generation Z women have saved $800, Millennials have saved $2,000, Generation X has saved $5,000, and Baby Boomers have saved $7,000 (medians).

Women’s Retirement Expectations, Preparations, and Insecurity “Amid the formidable chal-

lenges and setbacks of the pandemic, women continue to have big dreams and are focused on their future retirement. However, despite their efforts, many are not saving enough to be able to enjoy a comfortable lifestyle in retirement,” Collinson said. The survey findings illustrate women workers’ expectations and risks.

Traveling is the most often cited retirement dream among women workers (66 percent), followed by spending more time with family and friends (60 percent), and pursuing hobbies (46 percent). For some, retirement dreams include working (32 percent), volunteering (28 percent), and taking care of their grandchildren (21 percent).

More than three in four are

saving for retirement (77 percent) through employer-sponsored plans (e.g., 401(k) or similar plans) and/ or outside the workplace (e.g., in IRAs, mutual funds, or bank account). Among those who are saving, women started saving at age 28 (median).

Some are taking loans and early withdrawals from retirement accounts. Twenty-seven percent of women have taken a loan, early withdrawal, and/or hardship withdrawal from their 401(k) or similar plan or IRA at some point, including 19 percent who have taken a loan and 19 percent who have taken an early and/or hardship withdrawal.

Many expect their primary source of retirement income to be self-funded savings from 401(k)/403(b)/IRAs and or other savings and investments (47 percent). Twenty-seven percent of women workers expect to rely primarily on Social Security and 15 percent on income from working.

Household retirement savings are alarmingly low. Women workers have saved only $57,000 (estimated median) in all household retirement accounts. Retirement savings increase with age: Generation Z women have saved $5,000, Millennials have saved $42,000, Generation X has saved $66,000, and Baby Boomers have saved $134,000 (estimated medians).

Fifty-five percent expect to work past age 65 or do not plan to retire – and 53 percent plan to continue working at least part-time in retirement. Eighty-three percent of these women workers cite financial reasons for planning to do so, while almost as many (77 percent) cite healthy aging-related reasons.

Less than one in five are “very” confident that they will be able to fully retire with a comfortable lifestyle (18 percent). Moreover, 18 percent of women workers indicate their retirement confidence has declined as a result of the pandemic.

A N I M P O RTA N T M E S S AG E F R O M M E D I C A R E

MEDICARE PLANS CHANGE EVERY YEAR. Use Medicare.gov to find plans and to more easily compare: · Part D prescription plans for cost, coverage, and convenience. · Medicare Advantage plans for changes in network providers, co-pays, and more.

Need help with Medicare costs?

If your 2021 income is below $18,000 you may qualify for help with Medicare costs. To find out about Medicare Savings Programs that could be available for you, call the Illinois Department of Healthcare and Family Services at 1-800-843-6154.

Find plans at Medicare.gov or call 1-800-MEDICARE (TTY 1-877-486-2048).

Paid for by the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services

www.citizennewspapergroup.com

8 | CITIZEN | South End | Week of Nov. 10, 2021

CITIZEN On The Move

Models Rip The Runway Barbara Bates Style Highlights From Barbara Bates Recent Runway Fashion Show That Included Celebrities:BeBe Winans and Chi-Towns Own Lisa Ray Photos by Dionne Williams

Designer Barbara Bates has dressed some of the world's most fabulous fashionistas, entertainers, celebrities, community leaders and many well-known influential figures and her recent runway show continued displaying the quality that made her brand so popular.

Bates designs are one of the kind, Untouchable and very Classy.

CITIZEN | South End | Week of Nov. 10, 2021

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10 | CITIZEN | South End | Week of Nov. 10, 2021

CITIZEN | South End | Week of Nov. 10, 2021

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LEGAL NOTICE PUBLIC NOTICE STATE OF ILLINOIS, CIRCUIT COURT OF COOK COUNTY PUBLICATION NOTICE OF COURT DATE FOR REQUEST AFOR NAME CHANGE (MINOR CHILDREN) REQUEST OF: STEPHAINE L. JACKOSN on behalf of: 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. ________________________________

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF COOK COUNTY, ILLINOIS COUNTY DEPARTMENT, DOMESTIC RELATIONS DIVISION IN THE MATTER OF THE PETITION OF: ALEXANDER BARKSDALE JR. FOR CHANGE OF NAME TO: ALEXANDER BARKSDALE LOVE Case No.: 2021 CONC 001384 Calendar 10 NOTICE OF FILING PETITION FOR NAME CHANGE 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 DATE: 10/21/2021 Signature of Petitioner, ALEXANDER BARKSDALE JR. Williams Law Office, 41781 PO Box 208501 Chicago, Illinois 60620 DocuSign Envelope ID: D9E380FD-081C4030-AD9F-2F14B0FAEECD _____________________________________

COLLECTABLES POSTAGE STAMP SHOW Westin Hotel 400 Park Blvd Itasca IL November 19-21 Hours Fri Sat 106 Sun 10-4 Free Parking and Admission Info at www.Chicagopex.org _______________________________________

6 Myths About Pet Allergies

(NewsUSA) - By gaining a better understanding of the allergies caused by pets, you may be able to find a healthier coexistence with your furry friend.

According to The Humane Society, 62 percent of American households have at least one pet. Yet, an estimated 31 million Americans are allergic to animals, including up to 30 percent of those who have asthma. Here's what you should know about pet allergies: Myth 1: It's only pet hair that causes allergies to flare up.

Not true. Pet hair is a nuisance and causes allergies, as it contains saliva or other pet proteins. Allergic reactions to pets are actually caused by pet proteins contained in pet dander, such as microscopic skin flakes, saliva and urine.

Overactive immune systems in those with allergies attack these otherwise harmless substances.

Myth 2: Continuous exposure to animals will eventually desensitize you to them.

Not only is this not true, but in some cases the opposite is true. If you have a confirmed allergy to animals, it usually will not get better through increasing exposure. In fact, it may get worse.

Myth 3: With the right pet breed, allergy problems go away.

Not true. All cat or dog breeds produce dander. However, some breeds are believed to be better for allergy sufferers than other breeds.

Typically the best breeds are those that shed the least fur and/or are the most frequently bathed.

Also, smaller dogs produce less saliva than do bigger dogs.

Myth 4: Small animals are not a problem for allergies.

Wrong. Hamsters, guinea pigs, birds and other warm-blooded mammals can also trigger asthma and allergies in people with allergies to animal dander, according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.

Myth 5: Outside the home, you shouldn't have pet allergies.

Not necessarily. Because of their microscopic size and jagged shape, pet allergens easily stick to clothing and other fabrics and are carried to other locations. Animal dander -- in sufficient levels to cause allergies -- can be found in many public places such as the workplace, classrooms and hospitals, according to the American Lung Association.

Myth 6: An air purifier will help with pet allergies.

It depends on the air purifier. Only a high-performance air purifier can help. Some allergy sufferers report that small, low-quality air cleaners make little or no difference at all. However, many allergy sufferers report that their IQAir air purifier, in combination with improved cleaning methods, has reduced or completely eliminated their allergic reactions to pets in their homes.

For more information, visit the IQAir website at www.iqair.com. ______________________________________

Darrell Garth President /Publisher Janice Garth Sales Manager General Manager Editorial Send news tips, press releases, calendar listing etc to: editorial@citizennewspapergroup.com Advertising Display Advertising advertising@citizennewspapergroup.com or jgarth@citizennewspapergroup.com Classified Advertising call us at (773) 783-1251 Display Advertising call us at (773) 783-1251 Coverage Areas: CHATHAM-SOUTHEAST

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

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SUBURBAN TIMES WEEKLY Bloom Township, Chicago Heights, Flossmoor, Ford Heights, Glenwood, Homewood, Lansing ,Lynwood, Olympia Fileds, Park Forest, Sauk Village, South Chicago and Steger Citizen Newspaper Group Inc., (CNGII), Publisher of the ChathamSoutheast, South End, Chicago Weekend, South Suburban and Hyde Park Citizen and Citizen Suburban Times Weekly. Our weekly publications are published on Wednesday’s (publishing 52 issues annually). Written permission is required to reproduce contents in whole or in part from the publisher. Citizen Newspaper Group, Inc. does not assume the responsibility for nor are we able to return unsolicited materials, therefore they become property of the newspaper and can or will be discarded or used at the newspapers disgratation. Deadlines for advertising is every Friday at noon. Deadlines for press releases are Thursdays at 10 am prior to the next week’s edition. Please send press release information to: editorial@citizennewspapergroup.com. For more information on subscriptions or advertising, call us at (773) 7831251 or fax (872) 208-8793. Our offices are located at 8741 South Greenwood Suite# 107, Chicago, Illinois 60619.

12 | CITIZEN | South End | Week of Nov. 10, 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