South Suburban Citizen 10-14-2020

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 The Citizen: Serving The Black Community For 55 Years Week of Oct. 14, 2020

| Vol. 39 | No. 47 | www.citizennewspapergroup.com

SOUTH SUBURBAN

Health and Safety Program Promotes Successful Small Business Reopenings Page 2

Hospitals Hit Setbacks on Road to Recovery Page 4

Health and Financial Risks of COVID-19 Page 4

Marty Coyle (right) is an industrial technology teacher at Hillcrest High School who decided to make desks for students who needed them while they are remote learning due to COViD-19. Antwan Bell (left), a senior at Hillcrest High School, is a student in Coyle’s class who received a desk. Photo courtesy of Bremen High School District 228

TEACHER PROVIDES DESKS TO STUDENTS Students in Bremen High School District 228 have been in school for a month and taking classes remotely due to COVID-19. Marty Coyle, industrial technology teacher at Hillcrest High School, wanted to do something for the students, so he decided to put out a call for any students who were in need of desks. PAGE 2

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2 | CITIZEN | South Suburban | Week of Oct. 14, 2020

NEWS briefly EDUCATION RICHARD BERNSTEIN ADVISORS (RBA) FUNDS SCHOLARSHIP AT SPELMAN COLLEGE TO PROMOTE DIVERSITY IN THE ASSET MANAGEMENT INDUSTRY Richard Bernstein Advisors, the macro-focused investment manager that is now among the largest ETF strategists in the U.S., recently announced that the firm has funded the Richard Bernstein Advisors Scholarship at Spelman College to help promote diversity at RBA and in the overall asset management industry. Spelman College, a women’s college based in Atlanta, is the #1 ranked Historically Black College and University (HBCU) in the country according to the 2021 US News & World Report ranking.

The scholarship recipient will be chosen jointly by RBA and the Spelman College faculty. The scholarship includes tuition assistance for the student’s junior and senior years plus a summer internship at RBA. The intern will rotate among each of RBA’s departments allowing them to get exposure to many aspects of the asset management industry.

HEALTH

HEALTH AND SAFETY PROGRAM PROMOTES SUCCESSFUL SMALL BUSINESS REOPENINGS The Illinois Department of Labor (IDOL) recently announced the launch of Back to Business Illinois, a free, voluntary service to connect small businesses of 250 employees or fewer with consultants who will help them evaluate and address workplace safety and health issues related to COVID-19. The consultants will create a plan for small businesses that promotes a safe, healthy and productive environment for workers and customers. Back to Business Illinois health and safety consultants in IDOL’s Workplace Safety and Health Consultation Division will help local small businesses audit their physical operation, identify best practices and find ways to implement them efficiently.

This is a non-punitive program, and no fines or citations are associated with it. It is designed entirely as a benefit to empower Illinois small businesses to continue operating safely.

For more information on the Back to Business Illinois program, visit the official website at: www.illinois.gov/ worksafe

LAW & POLITICS

KEITH E. SONDERLING SWORN IN AS EEOC COMMISSIONER AND VICE CHAIR Keith E. Sonderling was recently sworn in as Commissioner of the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC). Sonderling was nominated by President Trump on July 17, 2019, re-nominated on March 16, 2020, and was confirmed on September 22, 2020 by a Senate vote of 52-41 to serve as Commissioner, for a term expiring July 1, 2024.

Sonderling was also designated by President Trump to serve as Vice Chair of the Commission. Sonderling joins Chair Janet Dhillon and Commissioners Charlotte A. Burrows and Victoria A. Lipnic on the presidentially appointed bipartisan Commission. One vacancy remains on the Commission.

Prior to his appointment to the EEOC, Sonderling served as the Deputy Administrator of the Wage and Hour Division of the U.S. Department of Labor. He previously served as the Acting Administrator. The Wage and Hour Division administers and enforces Federal labor laws including the Fair Labor Standards Act, the Family Medical Leave Act, and the labor provisions of the Immigration and Nationality Act. Prior to joining the administration in 2017, he practiced labor and employment law at the Florida-based Gunster Law Firm.

He received his B.S., magna cum laude, from the University of Florida and his J.D., magna cum laude, from Nova Southeastern University.

The EEOC advances opportunity in the workplace by enforcing federal laws prohibiting emp­loyment discrimination.

More information is available at www.eeoc.gov.

Teacher provides desks to students Continued from page 1

BY TIA CAROL JONES

Students in Bremen High School District 228 have been in school for a month and taking classes remotely due to COVID-19. Marty Coyle, industrial technology teacher at Hillcrest High School, wanted to do something for the students, so he decided to put out a call for any students who were in need of desks.

Coyle said when he got back to the school after the summer, he had a massive amount of lumber in the shop and couldn’t figure out what to do with it.

“I was just thinking, what good would it do just sitting there and we don’t know when the kids are going to come back,” he said.

Coyle said he thought about projects the students could do that would use the wood. He also thought about sending the wood home to his students.

“Then, I just started to realize the first or second day, a lot of kids, when they turn their cameras on, it was clear they were working from their bed or working from their kitchen table,” he said. Coyle decided to make the desks and found a simple way to make them.

He said he asked three or four students from his class if they needed desks, and they said they did. He said, after that, he decided he wanted to ask other students if they needed desks. To date, Coyle has made 38 desks, free of charge.

Coyle said while people have asked if they could purchase desks, he has not made the desks available for purchase.

“That wasn’t the point, it wasn’t supposed to be a self-serving type thing. It was just [that] I wanted to help kids in our community,” he said.

Coyle said he has received a large donation so he can purchase more lumber and build more desks. He said he wants to branch out and get the students involved in building the desks and donating them to people who need them.

Coyle said he would have about 125 students in the five classes he teaches. He added doing remote learning with his students has been tough, but he has been working on cardboard projects. He also has been doing fun videos, called “Mr. Coyle’s Class.” In one of the videos, he gives step-by-step instructions on how students can make their own desks. He also has incorporated talking about skilled trades and career exploration with his students

during remote learning classes.

“It’s challenged me to be a little more creative, but it’s been fun. The kids have responded well,” he said.

Coyle said the students have been happy to receive the desks. He said they have been so thoughtful and so thankful.

“I just wanted to do something to make our own community better and help the kids in the community and hopefully, that’s guided our kids to be more thoughtful and mindful of other people and spread joy to other people,” he said.

Antwan Bell is a senior at Hillcrest High School. He is one of Coyle’s students who received a desk.

“I don’t have anything inside my room I can do my work on, so when he told me about the desk, I was like, ‘sure thing, I’ll do it,’” he said. “I thought of all the things I could get done on there.”

Bell said when he saw the desk, he was excited because it goes with the things he already has in his room.

“I think that it’s good of him to do that, to provide desks to students. Mr. Coyle is one of my favorite teachers of all time,” he said. “He’s my favorite teacher because of the things he does. He’s like a cool, fun teacher.”

State Representative to run for Mayor

BY TIA CAROL JONES

Thaddeus Jones was the first African-American Alderman in Calumet City when he was elected in 1996. Now, he wants to be the first African-American mayor of the city, which is in the South Suburbs.

Jones, who was born and raised in Ford Heights, is also an Illinois State Representative in the 29th District. Jones said Calumet City is in a state of despair because people have walked away from Calumet City, much like people did in Ford Heights.

“They failed the residents,” he said. “I’m running because I want to make sure residents have a chance, that children growing up in Calumet City will have a chance of great opportunities, great success,” he added.

“Same fight that I did, same fight that I gave, I want to make sure these children have an opportunity for that. We have a chance to turn a corner. That’s what I want to do as mayor.”

Jones said he got into politics because he wanted to make a difference. He said when he was living in Ford Heights, he started knocking on doors and being involved in the local Democratic Party.

Thaddeus Jones is currently an Illinois State Representative serving in the 29th District. He is running for Mayor of Calumet City and has a five-point plan, which includes bringing in jobs, economic development, housing, education and reducing crime. Photo courtesy of Thaddeus Jones

“I continue that today, still making a difference, still knocking on doors, still talking to residents and still trying to provide a difference,” he said.

Jones said he gets a thrill from helping people, talking to them, praying with them and looking them in the eyes.

He added being of service to constituents is a number one priority at his office.

“It means more to people when you knock on their door and you know they need food.

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Or you knock on their door and you know they just lost someone and you can provide service for them,” he said.

Jones said with his experience in local government and running a campaign, he is well-versed in “bare-knuckle politics.” He said local government and state government have prepared him, so he knows what resources are necessary to bring Calumet City back to life.

He also knows what resources he has brought back to Calumet City as an Illinois State Representative to help the community grow and help the community turn the corner.

He said those resources include federal and state funding.

Jones said the demographics of Calumet City have changed, as well as the economic development opportunities. He said River Oaks used to be the economic engine of Calumet City. Now, he describes it as an “eyesore.”

Jones discussed his vision for Calumet City and said he wants the residents to join him in imagining the possibilities. “Just imagine a Calumet City that has jobs and economic development.

Just imagine a Calumet

City that has less crime. Just imagine a Calumet City that has programs for its youth and its people. Just imagine a Calumet City that has good housing and good economic development,” he said.

Jones added he has a five-point plan that includes bringing in jobs (including union jobs), economic development, reducing crime, better education and housing.

Jones went on to discuss creating “a Black Wall Street” in Calumet City.

He added: “I want to revitalize River Oaks Mall, by making it a mixed housing, mixed development at the mall, bring in a downtown district in Calumet City, with a new mall and new municipal building, new downtown for business and create a Black Wall Street in Calumet City. And, redeveloping Smiley Plaza.”

Jones said once that is done, residents will be reconnected and once residents and elected officials get reconnected, they can envision a new Calumet City.

“I’m going to be a mayor for everybody in Calumet City,” he said. “We can do this and we will turn a corner.”

CITIZEN | South Suburban | Week of Oct. 14, 2020

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NEWS

Black Voters Matter and Sony Electronics Join Forces to Empower, Educate and Activate Black Voters Matter (BVM), the community organization whose purpose is to increase civic engagement and build community power and representation in often-marginalized Black communities nationwide, and Sony Electronics Inc. recently announced the creation of a new alliance.

The multi-faceted work will initially focus on increasing the ranks of volunteers to support voter registration and turnout, and may grow to include additional elements such as collaboration on social justice initiatives, policy education, and a speaker series.

“This partnership with Sony helps us broaden the reach of our many important initiatives like voter registration, policy advocacy, training and more, so we can help Black communities have an even stronger positive impact on the country,” said LaTosha Brown, co-founder of Black Voters Matter Fund, and the 2020-2021 American Democracy Fellow at Harvard University’s Charles Warren Center for Studies in American History. “Our most immediate need is to mobilize and educate voters in this upcoming election. We are excited to partner with Sony to mobilize new voters at the local level. Because of this partnership with Sony, it will help us to continue the work we’re doing in an impactful way, we’re proud to announce this important relationship.”

Black Voters Matter and Sony Electronics Join Forces

Sony’s support for BVM and other important organizations stems from Sony’s $100 million “Global Social Justice Fund,” which stands firmly against discrimination everywhere, and supports social justice and anti-racist initiatives globally. Support is directed toward increasing activities focused on empowerment, specifically targeting one of the most marginalized populations in the nation, the African-American community.

“At Sony we place the highest value on, and seek to elevate inclusion and diversity of every kind, in thought, conversation and action,” stated Mike Fasulo, president and COO, Sony Electronics, Inc. “We firmly support Black Voters Matter and other powerful grassroots organizations, and are glad to debut our partnership, as we actively work together to empower others.”

To take action, donate, learn about your state’s resources, or find another way to get involved with Black Voters Matter, visit the organization’s website at https://blackvotersmatterfund.org

State Senate committee focuses on drug penalty reform, elderly parole Meeting is latest in series prompted by Black Caucus agenda

BY RAYMON TRONCOSO Capitol News Illinois rtroncoso@capitolnewsillinois.com

Springfield — The Illinois Senate Criminal Law Committee and Special Committee on Public Safety recently held its latest in a series of hearings related to the Illinois Legislative Black Caucus’ legislative agenda, focusing on reclassifying offenses, drug penalty reform and elderly parole.

“We must confront the vast disparities in how individuals throughout the state are sentenced,” state Sen. Elgie Sims, a Chicago Democrat and chair of the Senate Criminal Law Committee, said. “We have to ensure that our justice system treats everyone fairly regardless of their race, religion and economic status. That often is not the case. These issues are important to achieve a more fair and equitable system.”

Witnesses testifying before the committee included Tanya Woods, executive director of the Westside Justice Center; Champaign County State’s Attorney Julia Rietz; White County State’s Attorney Denton Aud; Ben Ruddell, director of criminal justice policy for the Illinois ACLU; and representatives from Restore Justice Illinois.

Witnesses generally agreed that changes made to reduce penalties for crimes involving cannabis, along with the expungement of minor cannabis-related drug crimes following marijuana legalization last year, were positive steps forward.

Ruddell noted the war on drugs and drug crimes in general have harshly impacted Black Americans more than any other demographic.

“In 1980 our prison population was 11,768.

Today it stands at more than 30,000. Despite a decades-long decline in the overall crime rate, data shows that increased drug arrests by the police and the enactment of punitive sentencing policies for drug offenses were major drivers in the spike in incarceration,” Ruddell said.

In 2018, Ruddell said, 60 percent of those arrested for a drug crime in Illinois were Black.

“While Black Illinoisans make up 14.5 percent of the state’s population, they make up 54.8 of those in prison and are imprisoned at 8.8 times the rate of whites, one of the worst disparities of any state,” he said.

Isolated to drug crimes, the disparities are larger. Between 2016 and 2018, Black Illinoisans made up 69 percent of drug offenders admitted to the Illinois Department of Corrections, and 59 percent of strictly cannabis offenders.

WITNESSES GENERALLY AGREED THAT CHANGES MADE TO REDUCE PENALTIES FOR CRIMES INVOLVING CANNABIS, ALONG WITH THE EXPUNGEMENT OF MINOR CANNABIS-RELATED DRUG CRIMES FOLLOWING MARIJUANA LEGALIZATION LAST YEAR, WERE POSITIVE STEPS FORWARD. Ruddell suggested three reforms to combat these disparities: reduction of all drug crimes by one class; reclassification of felony possession to a misdemeanor; and elimination of mandatory minimums and sentence enhancements. Lawmakers discussed the third point in a previous joint hearing.

Wendell Robinson, from Restore Justice Illinois, said as a juvenile he was sentenced to life in prison for violent crimes. Robinson served more than 25 years before being released in 2018 after a 2012 Supreme Court decision that made mandatory life sentences without parole for juvenile offenders unconstitutional.

Robinson cited a Justice Policy Institute study of 200 elderly prisoners in Maryland who were jailed as juveniles and released as result of

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a ruling by the Maryland Supreme Court. The median age of the individuals was 64 and they had served 34 years on average. Over a 6-year period upon release, the group had a 3 percent recidivism rate. That was far lower than the national average of 43 percent of those released from prison being incarcerated again, according to a 2011 Pew research study.

“A lot of guys that we are talking about that could potentially be parolees are people that are near and dear to me like friends. These are individuals that helped shape and mold the man that I became today,” Robinson said. “I know a lot of elderly guys [in prison] I still keep in communication with about these guys, they are like extremely positive individuals, but they just need a second chance.”

The hearing was the fifth prompted by Black Caucus’ push to promote its agenda, which is based on four pillars: Criminal justice reform, violence and police accountability; education and workforce development; economic access, equity and opportunity; and health care and human services.

The caucus plans to advance legislation to address each pillar during the upcoming veto session, which is scheduled for Nov. 17-19 and Dec. 1-3.

4 | CITIZEN | South Suburban | Week of Oct. 14, 2020

BUSINESS

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Hospitals Hit Setbacks on Road to Recovery August was a challenging month for hospitals nationwide as margins declined across the board, reflecting continued volatility in the sixth month of the COVID-19 pandemic, according to the Kaufman Hall September National Hospital Flash Report.

Operating Margin is down 7.9 percentage points since the start of the year compared to the first eight months of 2019, not including federal funding from the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act. Factoring in the federal aid, Operating Margin is down 2.3 percentage points year-to-date.

In August, Operating Margin fell 18% (1.8 percentage points) year-over-year, 12% (1.2 percentage points) monthover-month, and 8% (0.7 percentage point) below budget without CARES relief. With the federal aid, Operating Margin was down 3% (0.4 percentage point) year-over-year and 28% (2.9 percentage points) month-over-month, but 3% (0.4 percentage point) above budget for the month.

Margin results have consistently fallen below 2019 levels since the start of the pandemic, but the August declines follow three months of moderate month-over-month gains after the most devastating losses in March and April.

“While the August numbers are concerning, they are not surprising,” said Jim Blake, managing director, Kaufman Hall. “The latest results clearly illustrate the long road ahead for hospitals as they weather the ups and downs of a difficult recovery.”

According to a recent report, August was a challenging month for hospitals nationwide as margins declined across the board. Emergency Department (ED) Visits continue to be hit particularly hard, declining 16% year-to-date compared to the same period in 2019.

Multiple factors contributed to the August declines, including continued low volumes and revenues, and high per-patient expenses. Hospitals nationwide saw volumes decline across most measures in August, marking the sixth consecutive month of volumes falling below 2019 performance and below budget.

Adjusted Discharges are down 13% year-to-date, and fell 12% year-over-year and 8% below budget in August. Adjusted Patient Days are down 10% year-to-date, and declined 6% year-overyear and 4% below budget for the month.

Emergency Department (ED) Visits continue to be hit particularly hard, declining 16% year-to-date compared to the same period in 2019. ED Visits saw the greatest year-over-year declines in August, falling 16% compared to both prior year performance and to budget. Operating Room Minutes are down 14% year-to-date and fell 6% year-over-year in August, but were less than 1% below budget expectations.

Hospitals continued to see revenue declines in August. Not including CARES funding, Gross Operating Revenue is down 7%

year-to-date compared to the first eight months of 2019. In August, Gross Operating Revenue fell 2% year-over-year and 4% below budget. Fewer outpatient visits have led to revenue declines, with Outpatient Revenue down 10% year-to-date compared to January-August 2019. Inpatient Revenue has fallen 4% over the same period.

Meanwhile, per-patient expenses continue to rise, as hospitals struggle to control costs relative to lower patient volumes.

Total Expense per Adjusted Discharge and Labor Expense per Adjusted Discharge both are up 17% year-to-date over the first eight months of 2019. In August, Total Expense per Adjusted Discharge jumped 15% year-over-year and 7% above budget. Labor Expense per Adjusted Discharge increased 14% compared to August 2019 and was 6% above budget. Non-Labor Expense per Adjusted Discharge is up 15% from January-August compared to the same period in 2019, and rose 14% year-over-year and 6% above budget for the month.

The National Hospital Flash Report draws on data from more than 800 hospitals.

African American State & Local Government Employees Have Higher Concerns About Health and Financial Risks of COVID-19 A national poll of state and local employees finds that African American workers are more concerned than their colleagues about the potential health and economic impacts of COVID-19. Thirty-nine percent of African American state and local employees are worried about contracting the coronavirus at work as compared to 22 percent of all other survey respondents. Twenty-one percent of African American workers are concerned about a reduction in pay, which is nearly twice the level of other state and local employees (11 percent).

As the pandemic lingers, 39 percent of African American state and local employees expect to take on more debt in the next year. By comparison, 22 percent of all other survey respondents say they anticipate taking on more debt. Debt already is a problem for 69 percent of African American state and local employees, as compared with 53 percent of all other survey respondents.

These findings are contained in a new infographic from the Center for State and Local Government Excellence (SLGE) and ICMA-RC, African American State and Local Employee Views on COVID-19. This research is a supplement to a wide-ranging analysis of state and local employees’ views detailed in the recent report, Public Sector Employee Views on Finances and Employment Outlook Due to COVID-19.

Despite their worries, the research finds that African American respondents are more likely to express positive feelings while at work as it relates to serving their communities during the time of COVID-19. Forty one percent said they feel grateful, and 23 percent are optimistic. For all other survey respondents, 31 percent indicated they felt grateful while 14 percent felt optimistic.

“As millions of state and local workers remain on the frontlines of the COVID-19 pandemic, our research indicates that African

Americans see higher health and financial risks. This may correlate to the greater incidence and virulence of COVID-19 among Americans of color,” said Gerald Young, SLGE senior research associate.

“Also troubling is that even before the pandemic, 41 percent of African Americans working in state and local jurisdictions did not have emergency funds set aside for unexpected expenses. Yet, despite these challenges, African Americans are feeling less anxious and pessimistic than their fellow workers,” Young noted.

“We hope this research helps state and local employers with workforce management programs, especially as jurisdictions grapple with employee wellness, recruitment and retention during these trying times.”

Additional findings from the infographic are summarized below: African American respondents were most likely to work in education (27 percent) and health and human services (23 percent). Ninewww.citizennewspapergroup.com

teen percent work in administrative positions, while 13 percent work in public safety.

African American respondents were more likely than others to indicate that they are extremely concerned about the impacts of the pandemic on their retirement plans (27 percent).

Thirty-nine percent of African American state and local employees are worried about keeping their family safe from contracting the virus, as compared to 23 percent of all other survey respondents.

Sixteen percent of African American workers are concerned about a reduction in job hours, as compared to 11 percent of all others. Also, 13 percent of African Americans polled are concerned about job loss, versus seven percent of others surveyed.

Twenty-three percent of Africans Americans surveyed expected to spend significantly less than normal during the next year.

Thirty-eight percent of African

Americans in state and local government are working remotely. Prior to the pandemic, 15 percent worked remotely to the same or to a greater extent than they do now.

Twenty-seven percent of African American state and local employees strongly agree that the pandemic has made people more aware of the importance of their work, as compared with 14 percent of other respondents.

African Americans represent 18 percent of the U.S. state and local workforce, and state and local governments employ about 19 million workers. This research is based upon a survey of 1,008 full-time state and local government employees conducted by SLGE and Greenwald & Associates from May 4 through May 20, 2020. The final data were weighted by gender, age, household income, and industry type to reflect the distribution of the state and local government workforce as found in the U.S. Census Bureau’s Current Population Survey.

CITIZEN | South Suburban | Week of Oct. 14, 2020

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FASHION Missguided Powerhouse Teams Up With Iconic Streetwear Brand Sean John To Drop Their First Women’s Collaboration

Jordin Sparks Stars in “We Stan For Her” for Barefoot Wine

Series explores beauty standards and creates a platform for Black women Barefoot Wine, a brand committed to inclusivity and amplifying diverse voices, brings Jordin Sparks, Ashley Everett and Melissa Butler together for We Stan for Her, a four-part web series centered around the unique beauty experience of Black women in America. In the series, which launched recently, each woman shares their personal journeys, challenges and wins that will make viewers laugh, relate and, most im­ portantly, learn.

As a longstanding corporate ally to diverse communities, the #WeStanForHer campaign aims to demonstrate Barefoot’s continued commitment to Black women and builds upon last year’s Project Purple Light, which celebrated Black women as art by crowdsourcing user-submitted content that was featured in a live and digital art gallery.

Meet the Cast: * Jordin Sparks – Sparks is a multi-platinum recording artist and actress who first rose to fame as the winner of American Idol at the tender age of 16. A Grammy nominee, she continues to create music as well as pursue her other passions like fitness and baking. * Ashley Everett – Everett is a professional dancer and actress who has worked with some of entertainment’s biggest stars. * Melissa Butler – Butler is the founder and CEO of a nationwide beauty brand, which she originally started in 2012 after becoming frustrated with the beauty industry’s lack of diversity.

Produced by Stony & Yates, each We Stan for Her episode focuses on a key topic, including: * Crowns on Our Head: Sharing perspectives on natural hair versus other hair styles. * Our Beautiful Story: How heritage

and upbringing contribute to beauty preferences and routines. * Thriving Queens: Examining Black representation in the beauty industry, while also exploring beauty standards in the workplace. * Self-Love: Discussing the concepts of self-love, self-acceptance and feeling confident and beautiful from the inside out.

The series openly examines the culturally unique experience of this community, and these discussions create a forum for Black women to share personal perspectives and challenge the perceptions of beauty, while showcasing a community that is often critiqued and overlooked.

“As we continue our work highlighting the brilliance, grace and beauty of Black women, Jordin Sparks, Ashley Everett and Melissa Butler each lend their respective voice and incredible stories to the We Stan for Her series,” says Shannon Armah, associate brand manager for Barefoot. “We hope the discussions shared throughout the series create moments for all Black women to feel seen and celebrated, while also sparking important dialogue amongst viewers.”

“Bringing these important conversations to life alongside Ashley and Melissa has really been a thought-provoking and rewarding experience,” says Sparks, a singer, songwriter and actress. “While filming the We Stan For Her series, I reflected on my journey as a Black woman in entertainment, and I hope the series encourages Black women everywhere to celebrate themselves and reflect on their unique experiences and stories.”

To watch all four We Stan for Her episodes and for more information, visit barefootwine.com/we-stan-for-her and follow @BarefootWine on social media.

Global fashion brand MISSGUIDED and iconic streetwear brand SEAN JOHN have introduced SEAN JOHN X MISSGUIDED The Classics, a capsule collection for fall.

United in their mission to inspire creativity in expression and self-confidence, SEAN JOHN X MISSGUIDED invites the next generation of future icons to be unapologetically themselves through this timeless streetwear collection.

“Real disruption that resonates with customers isn’t just about getting ranges and collaborations right, it’s about being prepared to break new ground,” said Missguided Founder & CEO Nitin Passi. “And with SEAN JOHN X MISSGUIDED, that’s precisely what we’ve done the first Sean John collaboration for women, built around how we know the Missguided customers want to look. And this is more than a one-off – we’ll be unveiling additional Sean John x Missguided ranges as our partnership builds.”

The 114-piece range combines Sean John’s legacy with contemporary streetstyle for an aesthetic grounded in true authenticity.

As Sean John’s first women’s collaboration, SEAN JOHN X

BIA for SEAN JOHN X MISSGUIDED Photo by Bonnie Nichoalds

MISSGUIDED is meant to empower its wearers to be seen, use their voices, and embrace their individuality.

Inspired by the history of the Sean John brand and its music heritage, the collection features the velour, nylon and sweat fabrics synonymous with Sean John’s classic styles.

The range offers joggers with coordinating hoodies, oversized t-shirts, bike shorts, mini dresses, leggings, bodysuits, intimates and accessories.

The campaign, shot by Bonnie Nichoalds, is fronted by up-andcoming icon and rapper BIA, who embodies the collaboration’s

fearless, creative and trailblazing spirit. BIA’s spotlight in the campaign brings to life the authentic music DNA of the Sean John brand and Missguided’s mission for female empowerment.

“I remember how iconic Sean John was to me growing up, it represents a Hip-hop legacy that I feel empowered in,” states BIA. “This whole collection is my style. I pride myself on being able to dress in baggy clothes while still being sexy. I love what Missguided represents and how they empower me to be my true self! I think that really shines through in the campaign.”

Classic styles are updated in contemporary silhouettes with the signature pieces loved by Lil Kim, Rihanna and Paris Hilton reimagined for future idols. The statement bandana print seen throughout the collection is a nod to Jennifer Lopez’s iconic Sean John moment from the 2000s.

Own the collection at www. missguidedus.com, available in sizes XS to Plus and retailing from $22.00 - $152.00.

Follow along on social @ missguided and #SeanJohnxMissguided

UGG And Zappos.Com Launch Inclusive Footwear Collection Southern California-based global lifestyle brand UGG® (a division of Deckers Brands [NYSE: DECK]) and Zappos.com, the customer service company that just happens to sell shoes, clothing and more, have teamed up to launch UGG® UNIVERSAL, the first-ever inclusive footwear collection created by UGG® and Zappos Adaptive, a curated shopping experience by Zappos.com. UGG® UNIVERSAL features functional iterations of two iconic heritage UGG® styles–the Classic Short and Neumel–offering a curated and accessible wearing experience for consumers. The partnership further communicates that UGG® is a truly democratic brand made for anyone who wants to feel as good as they look, making getting dressed effortless and having timeless style easier than ever.

“We are thrilled to continue our partnership with Zappos for the launch of UGG UNIVERSAL. Not only has Zappos created Zappos Adaptive, a curated shopping experience that makes fashion functional and available to all, but they have encouraged us to adapt our heritage styles, so they are now truly accessible. We are very proud to be part of the Zappos Adaptive program,” said Andrea O’Donnell, president, fashion, lifestyle Deckers Brands.

“We greatly value our partnership with UGG, a brand who shares our deep commitment for

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championing inclusivity and reducing inequalities within the fashion industry,” said Dana Zumbo, business development manager, Zappos Adaptive.

“To bring this collection to life, we worked sideby-side hosting focus groups with a diverse group of people with disabilities to receive first-hand feedback. We’re humbled by the experience of getting to play a part in the UGG brand’s first-ever universal design.”

The UGG® UNIVERSAL collection features the Classic Short and Neumel reimagined with adaptive features such as oversized double zippers, rear pull tabs, and toggle-adjusted stretch laces. The Classic Short style comes in Chestnut and Black colorways and the Neumel in Chestnut, Black and Grey. Exclusive to Zappos.com until 2022, the collection includes women’s and men’s styles ranging from sizes 5-18 and kids’ product ranging from sizes 10-6 with a price point between $130-$170.

The UGG® UNIVERSAL Collection is available now exclusively on Zappos.com.

Both UGG® and Zappos Adaptive share a deep commitment to inclusivity and equality for all.

Throughout the process of bringing this collection to life, both companies came together and hosted customer focus groups with a diverse group of people with disabilities to receive first-hand feedback to ensure the products addressed a variety of needs and are tailored with a universal design.

6 | CITIZEN | South Suburban | Week of Oct. 14, 2020

NEWS

Shop Smart This October to Benefit Breast Cancer Patients StatePoint - It is not always easy to tell how your charitable dollars are going to be used, especially during National Breast Cancer Awareness Month.

Honored every October, this is a time of year when many companies use pink logos on product packaging to symbolize support for breast cancer-related charities. Unfortunately, these symbols are not always backed by a promise that proceeds will directly support research or those living with breast cancer.

In the case of Susan G. Komen and its Live Pink program, the organization works closely with all its partners to ensure program details are transparent to consumers. And this year, 18 companies are donating a percentage of the proceeds from the sale of select products to Komen.

As many consumers are doing much of their shopping online these days, Komen has created a site that makes it easy and safe to shop for a cause.

Visit livepink.org to shop and learn more.

“It just takes a moment to get

By shopping savvy this National Breast Cancer Awareness Month, you can ensure your purchases are making the biggest impact possible.

involved and make a difference in the fight against breast cancer,” says Sarah Rosales, vice president of Corporate Partnerships, Susan G. Komen. “We’re honored to have so many partners giving consumers

an opportunity to support breast cancer patients and fund lifesaving research.”

Want to ensure you are making the biggest impact possible? Before making any purchase you assume benefits

the fight against breast cancer, Susan G. Komen recommends asking the following questions: 1. Who is the program supporting? Is it clear what charity is benefiting from the program? Susan

G. Komen, for example, requires all of its partners to clearly state that their program benefits the organization. In many cases, they will include Komen’s iconic logo on their packaging.

2. How will the charity use the donation? It should be clear where the proceeds go. Look for programs that support organizations which take a 360-degree approach to fighting the disease by funding breakthrough research, supporting compassionate public policy and providing patient support.

3. How is the program structured?

Transparency is key. Is the company clearly stating how the money is raised and how much will be going to charity? For example, if it’s a donation per purchase structure, ask how much of the purchase price benefits the charity. Is there is a minimum or maximum contribution? Is it a flat donation regardless of sale?

By shopping savvy this National Breast Cancer Awareness Month, you can ensure your purchases are making the biggest impact possible.

BUILD BACK BETTER

JOBS AND ECONOMIC RECOVERY AGENDA Joe Biden believes we cannot build back better without a major mobilization of effort and resources to advance racial equity across the American economy.

Visit joebiden.com/racial-economic-equity to learn more PAID FOR BY BIDEN FOR PRESIDENT

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CITIZEN | South Suburban | Week of Oct. 14, 2020

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HBCUs are more than an education.

They are a legacy.

It's the place you become; where you're uplifted by past generations. It's your family's history and newfound family's future. It's your HBCU. That’s why Xfinity recognizes the legacy, community, and importance of HBCUs. And, now that gatherings are a little different, it's time to reconnect to the culture. Just say, "HBCU," into your Xfinity Voice Remote to experience more HBCU.

Visit xfinity.com/discovermore to learn more.

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Restrictions apply. Not available in all areas. Requires Xfinity TV with X1. ©2020 Comcast. All rights reserved.

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Comcast

FILE NAME: CMCCO20066M12_10.75x13_Q3_HBCU-More-Legacy_ChiCitNew-

8 | CITIZEN | South Suburban | Week of Oct. 14, 2020

CITIZEN On The Move

Matteson Mayor Shelia Chalmers- Currin Celebrates Birthday On Golf Course Photos by CREDD

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CITIZEN | South Suburban | Week of Oct. 14, 2020

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ENTERTAINMENT

Relaunch of Iconic Telethon Hosted

by Actor & Comedian Kevin Hart The Muscular Dystrophy Association (MDA) has announced the relaunch of their legendary Jerry Lewis MDA Telethon with Kevin Hart joining as host.

The MDA Kevin Hart Kids Telethon will be a two-hour special airing globally on Saturday, October 24, 2020 at 8:00pm ET (streaming partners to be announced), giving audiences the opportunity to support the essential work of the Muscular Dystrophy Association, and Kevin Hart’s Help From the Hart Charity.

Hart will be joined by celebrity guests including Jack Black, Usain Bolt, Josh Gad, Michael B. Jordan, Eva Longoria, Jillian Mercado, and more.

The virtual fundraising event will be aimed at driving mass awareness and charitable contributions to help transform the lives of children with disabilities and disadvantages. The event will unite a cast of Hart’s celebrity friends for a star-studded evening of comedy and musical performances, utilize modern technologies for interactive gaming components, as well as give viewers a look at the work of both organizations through exclusive profiles on families, research and care.

Additional live content will include seven weeks of live gaming and esports events leading up to and simultaneously with The MDA Kevin Hart Kids Telethon. MDA is an active member of the gaming community on a year-round weekly basis through the MDA Let’s Play gaming platform, which is hosting gaming events on Twitch every Saturday until the final marathon stream called MDA Let’s Play For A Cure on October 24. Each week will feature top gaming influencers and showcase the most popular game titles including Fortnite, Fall Guys and Minecraft.

Viewers will have access to an overtime show that will run outtakes and entertaining content from the making of the telethon.

“This is an incredible opportunity to bring the work of Jerry Lewis and the Muscular Dystrophy Association forward. I’m honored to collaborate with MDA and my organization, to educate and entertain the public about the need to support people with disabilities and disadvantages, because we are all in this together,” said Kevin Hart. “I can’t wait to have an incredible night for two

Muscular Dystrophy Association Announces, The MDA Kevin Hart Kids Telethon, Airing October 24.

critically important causes that are in urgent need of funding and hope.”

Donations to Help From the Hart support community-based organizations that address the educational, health and social needs of underserved communities, in addition to helping youth obtain higher learning through

education scholarships and vocational training.

Funds raised from this event go directly to MDA to provide funding for research that is shared freely to develop treatments and cures for muscular dystrophy, ALS and over 43 related neuromuscular diseases including

Duchenne and SMA. Funding also supports a network of medical care teams at over 150 MDA Care Centers at the nation’s top medical institutions.

“For decades Jerry Lewis brought the world together through the historic Labor Day telethon, establishing an incredible foundation of help and hope for MDA and the families we serve,” said MDA President and CEO Lynn O’Connor Vos. “The telethon was instrumental in raising awareness and donations that today have been directly linked to the development of life-changing therapies for muscular dystrophy, ALS and related neuromuscular diseases. Kevin Hart and the Help From the Hart organization are the perfect match for MDA to bring the magic and power of the telethon into a new era of giving, and to bring the remarkable stories of strength of MDA families into the hearts and homes of people across the country,” she continued.

“As MDA’s National Ambassador I am excited to be a part of such a fun event alongside Kevin Hart to support MDA as they work to help find a cure for my disease, Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy and other neuromuscular diseases,” said Ethan LyBrand (11), MDA’s 2020-21 National Ambassador.

For more than 70 years, the Muscular Dystrophy Association has funded research and care for over 250,000 people in the United States living with muscular dystrophy, ALS, and related neuromuscular diseases.

HelpFromtheHart.com supports underserved communities, providing financial scholarships for youth to attend college, and assisting those with medical needs.

The creative agency for The MDA Kevin Hart Kids Telethon is United Entertainment Group (UEG); the production agencies are UEG and Caviar; The MDA Kevin Hart Kids Telethon is directed by Jonathan Krisel.

For more information, visit mda.org/telethon.

THE FASTEST WAY TO PLAY. IN STORES

NOW! FASTPLAY® AGS LLC

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10 | CITIZEN | South Suburban | Week of Oct. 14, 2020

CITIZEN On The Move

Cook County COVID-19 Testing Event Took Place At River Oats Shopping Center Photos by L.M.Warbington

STAYING HEALTHY IS A PRIORITY FOR COOK COUNTY DURING COVID-19 The event was hosted by: Toni Preckwinkle, Cook County Board President, Stanley Moore, Cook County Commissioner (4th Dist.), Michelle Markiewicz Qualkinbush, Mayor Calumet City and Anthony Smith, Calumet City (7th Ward) Alderman. This event administered 300 Tests, to include HIV Testing, Womens Health Education & Referrals and Food Giveaway.

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CITIZEN | South Suburban | Week of Oct. 14, 2020

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11

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SERVICE

Business Name of NDGO STUDIOS with the business located at: 7753 S. MERRILL AVE., CHICAGO, IL 60649. The true and real full name (s) and residence address of the owner (s) / Partner (s) is: Owner/Partner Full Name: NATE DAVIS, Complete Address: 7753 S. MERRILL AVE., CHICAGO, IL 60649, USA ________________________________________

WANTED TO BUY FREON WANTED: We pay $$$ for cylinders and cans.

R12 R500 R11 R113 R114.

Convenient. Certified Professionals.

Call 312-598-1758 or visit RefrigerantFinders.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

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Coverage Areas: CHATHAM-SOUTHEAST

Chatham, Avalon Park, Park Manor, Greater Grand Crossing, Burnside, Chesterfield, West Chersterfield, South Shore,and Calumet Heitghts.

SOUTH END

Washington Heights, Roseland, Rosemoor, Englewood, West Englewood, Auburn-Gresham, Morgan Park, Maple Park, Mt. Vernon, Fernwood, Bellevue, Beverly, Pullman, West Pullman, West Pullman, Riverdale, Jeffrey Manor and Hegewisch.

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SOUTH SUBURBAN Serves communities in Harvey, Markham, Phoenix, Robbins, Dixmoor, Calumet Park, Blue Island, South Holland, and Dolton. Shopping- their favorite pastime!

_________________________________ STATEPOINT CROSSWORD THEME: HALLOWEEN

RESTORE YOUR CREDIT TODAY! ONCE THE PANDEMIC IS OVER DONT’ ALLOW A BAD OR LOW CREDIT SCORE TO KEEP YOUR FROM MAKING MAJOR PURCHASES. NOW IS THE TIME TO REBUILD YOUR CREDIT SCORE CALL US TODAY AT: CREDIT RESTORATION SERVICES

(218) 833-3769 REAL ESTATE

HUD/BANK FORECLOSURES CITY & SUBURBS Call: FRED D. CLINK (773) 294-5870 REALTY SERVICES CONSORTIUM _______________________________________ 3+ Bedroom HOMES FOR SALE SELLER FINANCING Call: FRED D. CLINK (773) 294-5870 REALTY SERVICES CONSORTIUM ______________________________________

RENTAL Newly Decorated 4 room, 2Br apt.

5200 block S Racine, $675/mo., stove and refrigerator Ask for Mr. Lambert 773-370-7744 _________________________________

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LEGAL NOTICE Notice is hereby given, pursuant to “An Act in relation to the use of an Assumed Business Name in the conducr or transaction of Business in the State,” as amended, that a certification was registered by the undersigned with the County Clerk of Cook County. Registration Number: Y20004525 on September 23, 2020 Under the Assumed Business Name of MAXIMIZE THIS LIFE with the busienss located at: 61 EAST 98TH STREET, CHICAGO, IL 60628. The true and real full name (s) and residence address of the owner (s) / partner (s) is: Owner/Partner Full Name: MCCLINTON E. PORTER, Complete Address: 61 EAST 98TH STREET, CHICAGO, IL 60628. USA __________________________________ Notice is hereby given, pursuant to “An Act in relation to the use of an Assumed Business Name in the conduct or transaction of Business in the State,” as amended, that a certification was registered by the undersigned with the County Clerk of Cook County. Registration Number; Y20004582 on September 23, 2020 Under the Assumed

ACROSS 1. Bobby Fischer's game 6. Reggae precursor 9. Octagonal sign 13. Haile Selassie's disciple 14. Goose egg 15. Water-filled gorge 16. Blue eyes, e.g.

17. Jean of Dadaism 18. Pariah, for medical reasons 19. *Pumpkin's Halloween precursor 21. *Famous magician who died on Halloween 23. *____ mortuaire, or body bag in Paris 24. Nordstrom's outlet 25. "____ Now or Never" 28. Good or bad and felt by others, sing.

30. Haiku, e.g.

35. Equal to distance divided by time 37. Post-it slip 39. Quickly fry 40. Type of mountain goat 41. *Graveyard denizen 43. Heart of the matter 44. Tender spots 46. Bailing twine, e.g.

47. Icelandic epic 48. Boss 50. Greek muse's strings 52. Up and down nod 53. "Beware the ____ of March" 55. One of seven, in eponymous 1995 film 57. *Dead one 61. *Jordan Peele's scary 2017 film 64. Dodge 65. Freud's concern 67. Pertaining to hours 69. *Funereal feeling 70. Swindle 71. Boredom 72. Adult elvers 73. Human digit 74. *What vampire does in a coffin DOWN 1. TV tube in days of yore 2. Wagner or Powers in a TV classic 3. Isaac's firstborn 4. Mixes up

5. Geo-spacial positioning system, for short 6. Ginger cookie 7. Crème de cassis plus wine 8. Top dog 9. Musher's ride 10. Language of Tupi people 11. *Black cat, possibly 12. ____wig or ____winkle 15. Oopsie daisy moments 20. Best part of cake?

22. *Halloween month 24. Alters to be more useful 25. Type of coffee with alcohol 26. Forbidden 27. Howard of radio fame 29. Physicist Niels ____ 31. Preakness, e.g.

32. Like cottage cheese 33. Piano student's exercise 34. *Leatherface's state 36. Biz bigwig 38. ESPN award 42. To the point 45. *Scary story-related sensation 49. Lyric poem 51. Choice word 54. Upright 56. Nary a soul 57. Give up 58. Skin soothing gel 59. Boring 60. Fusses 61. Departed 62. *RIP pots 63. Like a bow string 66. Gunk 68. Fleur-de-____

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CHICAGO WEEKEND

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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., (CNGI), Publisher of the Chatham-Southeast, 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 information for the calendar at least three weeks prior to the event. Send to: editorial@citizennewspapergroup.com. For more information on subscriptions or advertising, call us at (773) 783-1251 or fax (872) 208-8793. Our offices are located at 8741 South Greenwood Suite# 107, Chicago, Illinois 60619.

12 | CITIZEN | South Suburban | Week of Oct. 14, 2020

CORNER STORES ARE CORNERSTONES

Small businesses are the cornerstones of every community. And no matter what business you’re in, we have ways to help you keep it thriving – especially during the times when you need it most.

Because when small businesses do better, communities do better.

Learn more about ways we can help power your small business at ComEd.com/SmallBusiness

Stronger Communities