Chicago Weekend Citizen 2-16-2022

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What would a fully funded Black Futures look like?

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WEEK OF FEBRUARY 16, 2022

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Austin Harvest empowers and employs young people from the Austin community. Those young people run a produce market at 423 N. Laramie. PHOTO PROVIDED BY JULIE THORSON

A LOCAL AUSTIN COMMUNITY BUSINESS

PROVIDES FRESH PRODUCE AND JOBS FOR YOUTH

In the early days of COVID-19, Rodney Williams hosted peace circles for young people who live in the Austin community. Schools were closed because of the pandemic and Williams wanted to check-in on the young residents in the neighborhood.

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Black History Focus

briefly RTHS DISTRICT 227 SPECIAL OLYMPICS BASKETBALL TEAM TAKES HOME THE GOLD!

The Rich Township High School District 227 Special Olympics Team took home the gold on January 24, 2022. Due to the pandemic in 2020 they were unable to compete, but now the Raptors Special Olympics Basket ball Team has won their division title again!

Special Olympics Basketball Team Head Coach Kathleen Guitierrez says, “Two years ago, our ‘OlyRockStars’ basketball team was headed to state for basketball but the pandemic stripped them of this glory. Two years later we were able to begin our basketball sea son and our Raptors Special Olympics basketball team took home the Gold winning their division title again. We are headed back to state for the Cham pionship March 11 - 13th!”

Superintendent Johnnie Thom as and all of the faculty and staff of RTHS District 227 are so proud and cheering on the team.

THE VILLAGE OF DIXMOOR HONORS TRUSTEE DWAYNE TYSON

Dixmoor, Ill. –– The Village of Dixmoor honored Trustee Dwayne Tyson for his work in the communi ty with the Dixmoor Vikings youth program by renaming a street in the Village at a ceremony and dinner on Tuesday, Feb. 8.

The Dixmoor Vikings is a youth football and cheerleading program Ty son started in 2011. The organization serves more than 300 kids – 80 percent of whom are honor roll students. The organization is independently owned and operated and has produced the No. 1 football player in the state with no resources and not even a home football field.

“We were the first program in the area to take kids to play in tournaments at some of the finest stadiums in the NFL,” Tyson said. “We provide expe riences these kids can’t get anywhere else. But this program is so much more than just football and cheerleading.

We work hard to mentor the kids in the program and help them become not only good athletes but also good citizens. In addition, we provide good meals for the kids because here every one is family.”

The Dixmoor Vikings just returned from a tournament in Las Vegas which was played at Allegiant Stadium, the home of the Las Vegas Raiders. The Vikings won championships in the 9-year-old and 11-year-old categories.

The Village of Dixmoor is renaming Robey Avenue. The new name will be Dixmoor Vikings Dr. Honorary Dwayne Tyson.

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A Local Austin Community Business Provides Fresh Produce And Jobs For Youth Continued from page 1

BY TIA CAROL JONES

During a conversation, one of the young people made a statement that resonated with Williams. She said, “maybe things were supposed to happen like this, so we could finally rebuild our community the way it should’ve been built in the first place.”

The statement led to a bus tour, with former NFL Football Player Sam Acho and other athletes from Athletes for Justice, around Austin. On the bus tour, Williams counted 19-20 liquor stores and three grocery stores. Since then, one of the grocery stores has closed, leaving the community with only two grocery stories. One of the young people came up with the idea to start a pop-up produce market and Austin Harvest was born.

In just a few weeks, Austin Harvest had a space to open the pop-up produce market, located at 423 N. Laramie. The produce comes from a partnership with Jewel-Osco, getting the produce at cost and delivered three times a week.

The student-run market started out with 10 students and has expanded to 15 students running the market. The intention was to open for 12 weeks. Then, the community wanted them to stay open for another 12 weeks. The Austin Market program is year-round but the market is open in the summer months.

Sam Acho and The Score helped Austin Harvest raise $60,000 so it could build a permanent space and the market could be open year-round. That money will also enable the program to hire more students.

Williams grew up in the Austin community. He didn’t have the option of participating in a program that would

provide employment and fresh produce to the community. He takes what Austin Harvest does personally.

Williams believes a program like Austin Harvest brings hope back to the community. He left the community because he didn’t see potential to raise a family in the community.

For him to see young people learn how to be entrepreneurs and how to manifest their hopes and dreams, it is a wonderful thing.

“Our kids are actually pioneering something they can see, it’s tangible. It’s not going away anytime soon. We’re building a brick and mortar that they can look at for years to come,” he said.

Siblings of students who were part of the initial Austin Harvest group have come on board to participate in the program. The young people in the community no longer have to travel outside the Austin community to look for opportunities, because it exists in the community for them to take advantage of.

Customers have come from outside the community to support and encourage the students who participate in Austin Harvest. Williams has seen the morale of the students who participate in the program increase. The students in the program are faithful and committed. They’ve bought into the program. Williams believes the model should be duplicated.

“These kids are dreamers. This is their dream. They work at a place they dreamed up. We simply provided a place and walk them through it to manifest it,” he said. “No adult can take credit. We have just been a support for them as they dream it.”

For more information, visit @austinharvestfreshmarket on Facebook.

New Updates to College Scorecard Make Tool More Useful for Students and Families The U.S. Department of Education released updates to the College Scorecard that make the tool more useful for students and families weighing college options. The tool also includes new and updated information that may be beneficial to school counselors, college access providers, researchers, and other critical stakeholders. The Department has improved the College Scorecard interactive web tool, in addition to restoring several metrics that help students gauge how their prospective institution compares to other colleges across costs, graduation rates, post-college earnings, and other metrics. The changes reflect the Department’s priority of supporting and encouraging inclusive, affordable postsecondary programs that provide strong career outcomes for students.

U.S. Secretary of Education Miguel Cardona will highlight these new updates to the College Scorecard today, during the 2022 Community College National Legislative Summit, an event that brings together hundreds of community college leaders from across the country.

“For so many students and families, the college search process can be overwhelming. But easily accessible, high-quality information about higher education institutions can help students determine which college or university is the best fit for them,” said U.S. Secretary of Education Miguel Cardona. “The updated and enhanced College Scorecard shines a spotlight on affordability, inclusivity, and outcomes, over exclusivity and colleges that leave students without good jobs and with mountains of debt.

This update reflects the Biden-Harris administration’s commitment to ensuring students remain at the heart of the Department’s work.”

Updates to the College Scorecard also include an annual refresh of the cumulative loan debt of student borrowers at both

the institution-level and by field of study within each institution, as well as federal student loan repayment rates for the institution.

For the first time since 2018, the Department is publishing— both in the data files and on the consumer site—institution-level earnings data, which provide an overall sense of the career outcomes for alumni of the institution. The Scorecard also includes additional information about graduates who are better off for having gone to the college, by showing the percentage of those earning more than the typical worker with only a high school diploma.

College Scorecard data provide essential details for students and prospective students across all colleges, helping them to make informed decisions about their postsecondary education plans. The data also shine a spotlight on accessible colleges that are serving their students well, including by closing gaps in the completion rates among students of color compared with white students and by ensuring programs lead to positive career outcomes with manageable levels of debt. Examples include: University of Baltimore, a Predominantly Black Institution in Maryland, enrolls Black students as nearly half of its enrollment, charges much lower tuition than most four-year institutions, and saw median post-college earnings of more than $58,000.

Valencia College, a community college in Florida, enrolls three in four of its undergraduate population as students of color and has narrowed its college completion rate gaps; today, 45% of white students and 41% of Hispanic students graduate from the program.

The College Scorecard includes many other examples of institutions that are inclusive, often under-resourced, and are working to improve their students’ outcomes.

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WEEKEND

NEWS

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Lt. Governor Stratton Launches Agricultural Equity and Food Insecurity Initiative SPRINGFIELD— Lieutenant Governor Juliana Stratton today launched the Agricultural Equity and Food Insecurity Initiative, called #AgConnectsUsAll. We know there are disparities in who enjoys the benefits of, and who has access to, the opportunities the agriculture industry has to offer in this country—including in Illinois. We also know that food insecurity impacts far too many people in all 102 counties of Illinois, especially children and the elderly.

That is why Lt. Governor Stratton and her team have begun traveling across the State to conduct listening tours as part of #AgConnectsUsAll. These listening sessions allow for gathering information from stakeholders with first-hand knowledge to formulate a long-term strategy that will work towards elevating equity in the industry and addressing food insecurity.

Lt. Governor Stratton and her team have already toured Peoria, Chicago, and East Saint Louis, Illinois. They are excited about listening and learning in these spaces and look forward to doing more.

FEBRUARY 2022 During the month of February, the emphasis of #AgConnectsUsAll will be on diversity and equity. Black Farmers once owned 14% of the land in this country, now they own about 1.3%. Lt. Governor Stratton and her team will focus on identifying funding opportunities for marginalized farmers and improving access to Ag education and career pipelines.

MARCH 2022 During the month of March, #AgConnectsUsAll will emphasize food insecurity and finding pathways to ensure residents have access to fresh, nutrient-dense, and culturally

relevant food. Since the beginning of the pandemic, food insecurity has doubled among the general population in Illinois, tripled in households with children, and increased 60% among seniors.

Lt. Governor Stratton is dedicated to this work, as evident in her role as Chair of the Governor’s Rural Affairs Council (GRAC). The Council was created to improve the delivery of state services to rural Illinois, while expanding opportunities and enhancing the quality of life for all Illinoisans with a particular focus on rural residents.

Beyond her leadership, Lt. Governor Stratton is connected to the land like so many people of color. After Emancipation, Stratton’s great-great grandfather was given a plot of land that was farmed and cultivated into a community called Stephensville, Miss., that still exists to this day.

“You’ll often hear me say that Ag connects us all. From rural to urban to suburban – Ag is at the center. It’s our state’s largest industry, a driving force in our economy and an integral part of feeding Illinois,” said Lt. Governor Stratton. “All communities throughout our state deserve to have access to the bounty that Illinois produces. Our efforts through these sessions, and our greater strategy for equity, will take steps in making Illinois Agriculture as vibrant and diverse as our state.”

To learn more about the #AgConnectsUsAll launch, go to the Lieutenant Governor’s social media platforms (@LTGOVSTRATTON, LTGOVSTRATTON) for the announcement and updates.

A. Philip Randolph “Gentle Warrior Awards” Returns as a Gala Cocktail Reception The only museum of its kind to celebrate community leaders who uphold the labor movement; agents of change Presented by Wintrust, the National A. Philip Randolph Pullman Porter Museum (NAPRPPM) will mark its 27th anniversary by hosting the “Gentle Warrior Awards” Gala Cocktail Reception. The museum’s premiere fundraiser will take place from 5 to 9 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 26, Hyde Park Bank, 1525 East 53rd St. “NAPRPPM museum is the only one of its kind in the world,” said museum’s founder Dr. Lyn Hughes. “We honor and celebrate exclusively the contributions of African Americans in America’s labor movement. That is precisely why we must preserve the history and continue to tell the full, authentic story of those who paved the way for African Americans in organized labor.”

The museum is the only one in existence that bears the name of A. Philip Randolph, founder of the first Black labor union in the nation, The Brotherhood of Sleeping Car (BSCP).

The Porter’s union was the first Black union to be chartered under the American Federation of Labor (AFL) and the first Black union to win a collective bargaining agreement with major US corporation, the powerful Pullman company.

Randolph’s unshakable courage, sacrifice, and brilliant leadership removed barriers for Blacks in organized labor, and enabled the Porters to create the foundation for the Black middle

class. As one of America’s foremost labor and civil rights leaders, Randolph became known as the “Gentle Warrior.”

Organizers of the Gentle Warrior Awards, a Black-Tie Gala Cocktail Reception will transform the non-traditional backdrop of a financial institution into an unforgettable affair complete with a red carpet, live entertainment by Emmy award winner and international vocalist Joan Collaso, dancing, delectable culinary bites and savory desserts. The special guest host is Hosea Sanders of ABC 7 Chicago.

This year’s Gentle Warrior Awardees are Tefere Gebre, Executive Vice President of the National AFL-CIO, and Donald Finn, Business Manager, IBEW Local 134.

The Change Agent Award is presented to those who have not only invoked positive change through action but have required it of others throughout the communities they serve.

“The pandemic has indeed impacted the way events are being held,” added Hughes. “We want to ensure that our guests are safe, so proof of vaccination or negative COVID 19 test results will be required.”

The funds generated by this awards gala will contribute to the mobilization funds required to jump-start the museum’s expansion project which is scheduled for spring 2022.

Tickets and sponsorship opportunities are available via Eventbrite. For more information about NAPRPP, visit www. aprpullmanportermuseum.org.

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POLITICAL AFFAIRS

State Rep. Evans Brings Clean Offshore Wind to Illinois, Long Term Clean Jobs to Chicago’s Black and Brown Communities *Key first step for the Illinois Rust Belt to Green Belt Pilot Program Act* Legislation that would position Illinois to lead on offshore wind in the Great Lakes and create long term, good-paying jobs for Chicago’s black and brown communities made its way through committee today.

The Rust Belt to Green Belt Pilot Program Act (House Bill 4543), introduced by State Rep. Marcus C. Evans, Jr. (D-Chicago), passed the House Public Utilities Committee on Tuesday, February 1st, 2022. The bill would allow Illinois to pursue federal funding to build an offshore wind port on Chicago’s Southeast Side, ultimately righting the wrongs of generations of environmental racism.

“This bill sends the message nationally that Illinois is ready to lead the Great Lakes offshore wind development, while locally it has the potential to bring jobs and clean air to an area of our state that for generations has suffered from environmental racism,” State Rep. Marcus C. Evans, Jr. (D-Chicago) said. “This bill brings innovation to the state of Illinois and opportunity to our black and brown communities on Chicago’s South Side.”

The bill would create the Illinois Rust Belt to Green Belt Fund within the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO) to capture part of the $17.1 billion for ports made available through the federal Bipartisan Infrastructure package – specifically the 68% percent of $17.1 billion designated for new port construction. This fund would support port construction and infrastructure workforce development related to offshore wind, by providing grant funding and other financial assistance. It will potentially train and facilitate the employment of historically underrepresented communities.

Upwards of 1,000 skilled jobs that span construction, implementation, operations, and maintenance would be created by an offshore wind pilot project, in addition to the thousands of jobs that could be created for port construction.

Labor groups, environmental, and clean energy advocates, including Blacks in Green, People for Community Recovery, Sierra Club, the Chicago Federation of Labor, Chicago and Cook County Building Trades Council, IBEW 134, Chicago Laborers District Council, Teamsters Joint Council 25 and International Union of Operating Engineers Local 150 have signed on as proponents to the bill.

The bill now goes to the full Illinois House of Representatives for further consideration.

Rush Announces $50,000 For Hyde Park Jazz Festival from American Rescue Plan CHICAGO — Today, U.S. Representative Bobby L. Rush (D-Ill.) announced that the Hyde Park Jazz Festival will receive a $50,000 grant from the National Endowment for the Arts (NEA) with funding made possible by the American Rescue Plan, which Rush helped pass last March. Nearly $58 million in NEA grant funding is going out to 567 arts organizations across the country to help the arts and cultural sector recover from the COVID-19 pandemic. The organizations can use the funding to save jobs and to fund operations and facilities, health and safety supplies, and marketing and promotional efforts to encourage attendance and participation.

“The Hyde Park Jazz festival is an outstanding cultural event for our city,” said Congressman Bobby L. Rush. “It’s free, it’s world-class, it’s renowned, and I am so proud that it is held in the 1st District. I love jazz and I’m thrilled that the Hyde Park Jazz Festival will receive $50,000 from the American Rescue Plan. This monumental legislation, which I was proud to help pass, is truly a gift that keeps on giving.”

Grant awards were given out in increments of $50,000, $100,000 or $150,000 and do not require cost sharing or matching funds. This was a competitive grant process; the NEA received and reviewed more than 7,500 eligible applications requesting $695 million.

Foster Statement on House Passage of America COMPETES Act Congressman Bill Foster (D-IL) issued the following statement after the U.S. House of Representatives passed the America COMPETES Act: “I was proud to vote for the America COMPETES Act – a historic investment in our nation’s economic future and our position as the world’s leader for science, technology, and innovation. This is an opportunity to strengthen our STEM workforce, reinforce our national security, enhance our semiconductor manufacturing capabilities, and provide America’s national labs with the resources they need to maintain our world-class scientific infrastructure. As a scientist who spent 24 years working at one of our national labs, I know how important these investments will be to our scientists and their capacity for research, development, and innovation. I’m looking forward to working with my colleagues in the House and Senate to bring this legislation to President Biden’s desk.”

The America COMPETES Act includes five amendments offered by Congressman Foster: Keep STEM Talent Act: Allows graduates with advanced STEM degrees to remain in the United States following their graduation and would remove barriers for STEM-educated international students who want to work in the United States.

Strengthening Digital Identity Act: Directs the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) to create a new framework of standards to guide government agencies when providing digital identity verification services – placing an emphasis on privacy and security.

Restore and Modernize Our National Laboratories Act: Authorizes Congress to appropriate $6.1 billion each year over the next five years for the Department of Energy to prioritize maintenance projects at the national labs, including construction and enhancements of lab infrastructure. The funding could also support lab modernization programs and the promotion of environmentally responsible operations.

Allow the Office of Science to use new funding for its National Virtual Biotechnology Lab: Bolsters research and development related to the COVID-19 pandemic and long-term biothreats.

The America COMPETES Act of 2022 represents a historic investment to surge production of American-made semiconductors, tackle supply chain vulnerabilities to make more goods in America, turbocharge America’s scientific research and technological leadership, and strengthen America’s economic and national security at

home and abroad.

Foster is a Member of the House Committee on Science, Space, and Technology and serves as chairman of the Subcommittee on Investigations and Oversight.

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Richard King Mellon Invests in Black Founded Ed-Tech Startup PITTSBURGH PRNewswire -- RK University and a dual Mechanical Engineering Mellon Foundation makes a project-relatand Economics Major at 16-years-old. Later ed investment in a Black father-son-led transferred to Howard University, and as a junior company that aims to increase diversity in and at 18, won a university engineering design STEAM fields so disadvantaged populations competition. are included in the future of work. DamoChief Technical Officer and Damola’s son, la and Wole Idowu - engineers, creatives, Wole Idowu, knows the impact of access to educators, and entrepreneurs - founded Toyz mentorship and learning opportunities. Raised in Electronics at Carnegie Mellon University’s Washington DC’s Ward 8, became a Thiel 20 unSwartz Center for Entrepreneurship in Pittsder 20 finalist at age 15 as he was graduating high burgh, Penn. school. “My dad’s support gives me opportunities Using its Social-Impact Investment Prothat I can build on,” Wole explained. “It allows gram, the Richard King Mellon Foundation me to grow and pass it on to more people, making invests in for-profit companies looking to it widespread equitably so access can truly reach accomplish a public good that aligns with its beyond the limits we imagine are capable today.”

Strategic Plan. These investments are known Enrolling at Carnegie Mellon University at as Program-Related Investments. The Conage 15, he was featured on CNBC’s 20 under 20 vertible note investment leads a $500,000 Transforming Tomorrow documentary. Wole holds Toyz Electronics with high school students during a workshop at the Swartz Center seed round for Toyz Electronics and proan Electrical and Computer Engineering degree, of Entrepreneurship. PRNewsFoto vides resources for: also minoring in Business Administration and EnImproving the Dah-Varsity Android and trepreneurship for Creative Industries. iOS Apps Since 2020, Toyz Electronics has been involved Refining and developing the TOYZSTEAM curin various activities and challenges. The company was riculum a semi-finalist for the BNY Mellon and Innovations Increasing the scalability, measuring and evalWorks social innovation challenge, Upprize. It was uating the effectiveness of both TOYZSTEAM and also an MIT Solve finalist for Antiracist TechnoloSuperhero Rap program for difficult learners gy and in the MIT Solve Incubator for Unbundling Raising educators’ and learners’ awareness of the Policing. With the assistance of a faculty advisor and Dah-Varsity app to increase its reach and impact Executive Director of the Entertainment Technology Hiring two full-time employees in 2022 Center at Carnegie Mellon University Drew Davidson, “As we celebrate Black History Month, the Toyz completed National Science Foundation I-Corps historical significance of the Mellon Family investing research. in the Idowu Family does not evade me,” expressed Toyz was also involved in the Startup Boost PittsScreenshot of Dah-Varsity App.PRNewsFoto CEO Damola Idowu. “I am inspired by Booker T. burg Spring 2021 Cohort and recognized as an X4-ImWashington, who received funding from Andrew Carn- Superhero versions of themselves and foster skills that pact Top-Ranked Impact Tech Solutions for Black egie and endowed Tuskegee and Hampton Universities allow them to overcome obstacles that hinder their Leadership in 2021. educational paths or to create new trails to sustainto train former slaves to capture the opportunity of Toyz Electronics has impacted more than 2,000 able creative, software, manufacturing, hardware, and the industrial revolution. This investment allows us students, using its Dah-Varsity App, Superhero Rap entrepreneurship careers. The key is to give disadto empower disadvantaged populations to upskill for concept, and TOYZSTEAM curriculum to empower vantaged students the power to engage in an equitable the future of work by using our Dah-Varsity App, our diverse and disadvantaged students to maximize their Superhero Rap concept, and culturally relevant TOYZ- metaverse economy and give them opportunities to superhero capabilities careers in the technical, crecontrol their lives.

STEAM curriculum to make emerging economies, ative, maker-related industries and entrepreneurship.

The history of Toyz Electronics stems from the such as the metaverse, more equitable for everybody.”

For more information, visit https://www.rkmf. duo’s own STEAM superhero background.

In 2022, Toyz Electronics strives to empower org/pages/toyz-electronics or https://toyzelectronics.

At 15-years-old, Damola enrolled at Syracuse 5,000 diverse and disadvantaged students to become com/.

What would a fully funded Black Futures look like?

BALTIMORE PRNewswire -- This Black History Month, CLLCTIVLY, a place-based social change organization that centers Black Genius, Narrative Power, Social Networks, and Resource Mobilization, is honoring Black leaders in their community who are making history every day with #28DaysofBlackFutures. #28DaysofBlackFutures is a crowdfunding and narrative power campaign that amplifies and mobilizes resources for Black-led organizations serving Greater Baltimore. Since its launch in 2019, CLLCTIVLY has mobilized over $500,000 for Black-led organizations.

Throughout the month, they will highlight 28 dedicated Black leaders and organizations on the ground creating programs and initiatives that drive health, wealth, safety, and culture in Baltimore. Their goal is to raise $100,000 to support organizations that have historically

been underfunded. The collective proceeds will then be divided amongst the groups.

The theme for the campaign is Black Joy, Black Liberation, and Black Futures. CLLCTIVLY asked each organization to envision where their organization would be in ten years if they were fully funded. “We believe narrative power and resource mobilization work hand in hand.

Black-led organizations are competing against a narrative in corporate media that often pathologizes Black bodies. Subsequently, organizations are asked to focus on the problems in the community and then tasked with challenges addressing them with little to no resources.

We wanted to give Black-led organizations a moment to breathe and dream. It’s important that we reclaim our narrative and speak to the everyday genius that keeps making a way out of no way.” said Jamye Wooten, founder of CLLCTIVLY and creative director for the #28Day-

sofBlackFutures campaign.

Since its launch in 2019, CLLCTIVLY has worked to shift capital to Black-led organizations through a participatory no-strings-attached grantmaking process. Their monthly Black Futures Micro-Grant offers community organizations the opportunity to submit a two-to-threeminute video highlighting their mission and vision. Once applications are closed the community at large votes for the winners. Over 70,000 votes have been cast. “We believe those closest to the problem are closest to the solution. We are looking for individual donors and philanthropic partners to help us get funding in the hands of those on the ground,” said Wooten.

Our mission is to end the fragmentation and duplication of programs, to learn from and about each other, and to be a resource for the Greater Baltimore community that seeks to find, fund, and partner with Black social change organizations. CLLCTIVLY IS A PLACEBASED SOCIAL CHANGE ORGANIZATION CENTERING BLACK GENIUS, NARRATIVE POWER, SOCIAL NETWORKS, AND RESOURCE MOBILIZATION. – cllctivly.org

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Black Child Clothing Introduces Their 300 Signature Collection CHICAGO PRNewswire -- Black Child Clothing, a clothing company out of Chicago, Ill., is excited to announce the launch of their 300 Signature Collection. This collection was designed to commemorate the 300 Freedom Suit Cases that were filed in the St. Louis Circuit Court House from 1814 to 1860, a time period when it was illegal for a slave to be found literate. The designs on the 300 Signature Collection display replicas of authentic slave signatures from these 300 Freedom Suit Cases.

Many of these cases were filed by slaves in order to gain back their freedom. One specific case, that of Margaret Morgan vs. John Colter, set the precedent for all future cases involving slave freedoms in St. Louis, eventually giving light to an issue that was at the forefront of slavery in America during this time period.

Owner and Founder, Matthew Delashment, created Black Child Clothing to continue the story from slavery to freedom, hoping to represent the move to empowerment among the Black community. He named his clothing company “Black Child” after being inspired by the poem “Hey Black Child,” written

by Useni Eugene Perkins. Their 300 Signature Collection aims to further Mr. Perkins’ vision into today’s generation, taking pivotal moments within Black culture and creatively expressing them through fashion.

The 300 Signature Collection features t-shirts, hoodies, long-sleeves, and hats in three available colors: dark grey, sand, and brown. You can purchase these items in sizes from small to XXXL, and every piece in this collection features a replica of a real slave signature.

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FASHION

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SHARON CHUTER AND PULL UP FOR CHANGE TEAM UP WITH NEW BEAUTY BRANDS LOS ANGELES, Calif. – Following a successful launch in February 2021, in which over $400,000 was raised and deployed to eight emerging black business founders at Essence Festival of Culture, Sharon Chuter and her non-profit organization, Pull Up For Change are re-launching the Make It BLACK campaign for Black History Month 2022 with new beauty partners.

After the disruptive launch of Pull Up For Change and the #PullUpOrShutUp campaign in June 2020 - a social call-to-action that demanded companies to publicly disclose the number of black employees in their corporate office and leadership roles to help dismantle a system that has led to low economic participation for black people - Sharon Chuter and Pull Up For Change shook up the beauty landscape once again with the launch of Make It BLACK, a breakthrough campaign delivering iconic beauty products in limited-edition black packaging to redefine what it means to be Black and raise funding for black founders.

The Make It BLACK campaign deals another blow to systemic racism by reclaiming the word black and making consumers understand that black is nothing but beautiful. Make it BLACK is making a bold statement to change the inaccurate and dangerous negative perception in society of the word and instead reframe and refocus on the beauty of Black.

Afterall Black is the color of absolute luxury – it’s chic, classic, timeless, and iconic.

The Make It BLACK campaign’s PETITION – which was created to get the Oxford English Dictionary and Merriam Webster Dictionary to update their definitions of the word black immediately – already has over 6,220 signatures and counting. As an integral part of the petition and campaign, Sharon Chuter herself has written an OPEN LETTER to the Oxford English Dictionary and Merriam Webster Dictionary, and is writing 6,200 additional letters - in support of each petition signature - to push upon the dictionaries and advocate for real change.

“Language plays a critical role in how we perceive the world,” says Sharon Chuter. “The function of language goes beyond express-

ing ideas and concepts, it shapes thought and defines our collective consciousness.

Language should be neutral, unbiased and reflective of our current realities. It is in this regard that the dictionary has work to do.”

For this year’s Make It Black campaign, Pull Up For Change is partnering with established beauty brands - e.l.f., Flower Beauty, M∙A∙C Cosmetics, Mented, Morphe, and UOMA Beauty - to repackage their most iconic products in black. These limited-edition products will be available for purchase throughout February (Black History Month) and will be sold online with Ulta Beauty, through IPSY and BoxyCharm’s subscription boxes, and via the Make It BLACK and participating brands’ websites.

100% of the gross profits from the limited-edition iconic black products will be contributed to the PULL UP FOR CHANGE Impact Fund, which deploys capital to black-owned businesses and are allocated as grants to emerging black founders. Last year, the campaign raised over $400,000 which was deployed as grants to eight black female founders.

“As a Black Female founder, I understand, first-hand, the struggles of raising capital or accessing funding,” says Sharon Chuter. “In fact, I am one of only 93 Black women in the history of America who have raised over $1M for startups. On the other hand, the average white male receives $2.1M to fund their start-ups. We have a long way to go to create true economic equality and there is no equality without equity. This is where I am proud to play a small part in supporting other Black female founders to make their dreams a reality, and to truly get the seat at the table that they very well deserve”.

“Ulta Beauty is proud to join Sharon and Pull up For Change to empower Black beauty and drive meaningful change in our industry,” said Monica Arnaudo, chief merchandising officer at Ulta Beauty. “As a values-based company, we share the passion to shape how the world sees beauty and the intention to build greater equity for Black founders. Make it BLACK helps achieve this and we’re honored to support as the exclusive retail partner.”

The Wade Family Partners with Janie and Jack for Exclusive Spring Collection SAN FRANCISCO PRNewswire -- Chiljoy through bright colors, bold prints, and new dren’s fashion brand Janie and Jack debuted silhouettes seen throughout the collection. a Spring 2022 collection in collaboration The three-year-old fashionista’s playful with the Wade family. The Kaavia James spirit is featured throughout the campaign, Union-Wade x Janie and Jack collection, including shots alongside friend Crosby inspired by Kaavia herself and designed Sparrow, son of actress Nicole Lyn and in partnership with her parents, actress, entrepreneur Chad Easterling, celebratproducer, and best-selling author, Gabriing fun and friendship while highlighting elle Union-Wade, and NBA champion, the collection’s coordinated Best Friend businessman and activist, Dwyane Wade, sets. will highlight moments of family and “We are such fans of Janie and Jack friendship through the lens of optimism, and are thrilled to be partnering with them imagination, and fun. These long-standing on this collection,” said Gabrielle and Dwyane. fans of the brand, known for expressing them“The colors and patterns perfectly encapsulate the selves through impeccable style and coveted personality of our ‘Shady Baby’ Kaavia James family looks, developed this collection for boys PRNewsfoto/Janie and Jack and we cannot wait to share it with the world!” and girls ranging from 6 months to 18 years, “The Wades have been such incredible following Janie and Jack’s recent expansion into the Tween supporters of Janie and Jack over the years, allowing us to category in 2021. be a part of so many special family moments. Their passion, Known as a connector who brings people together, purpose, and exceptional eye for fashion have always been an Kaavia welcomes customers and fans alike into her world of inspiration,” said Vanessa McClure, Designer, Janie and Jack.

“With this partnership, we hope to celebrate friendship and style through an imagined world by Kaavia James. With that in mind, together we have created this joyful collection.”

The Kaavia James Union-Wade x Janie and Jack collection is priced from $10.50-$74.00 and is now available to shop on www.JanieandJack.com and in select stores nationwide. Introducing new silhouettes and french terry fabrications, the fashion and accessories collection celebrates eye-catching patterns, three-tiered ruffles, and soft-as-a-cloud crochet detailing, all to prepare your little one and their crew for the spring season ahead. The collection highlights matching BFF sets in floral block prints and bold rainbow stripes, with outfit-making accessories such as bucket hats and socks, for coordinated sunny-day style.

Janie and Jack is a design house with every kid at its heart—because individual style starts early. Each season’s collections feature modern twists on classic fashion. Janie and Jack is known for family moments, thoughtful details and memorable gifts. Visit Janie and Jack stores nationwide for kids’ clothing from newborn to size 6 and janieandjack.com for up to size 18.

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NKF Celebrates Black History Month NEW YORK PRNewswire -- The National Kidney Foundation (NKF) is excited to celebrate Black History Month by highlighting the health equity initiatives accomplished throughout the year such as the formation of NKF’s first-ever Health Equity Advisory Committee (HEAC) reaching its one-year anniversary and the recommendation for a race-free approach to eGFR (estimated glomerular filtration rate), which is an equation that determines a patient’s level of kidney function. People living with kidney disease, particularly those who identify as Black or African American, need to be aware that this new race-free equation may have an impact on their kidney disease care.

Kidney disease is a public health crisis that affects an estimated 37 million adults in the U.S. and can lead to life-threatening kidney failure. Approximately 90% of those with the disease don’t even know they have it until it has progressed to the critical late stages. People of Black or African American, Hispanic or Latino, American Indian or Alaska Native, Asian American, or Native Hawaiian or Other Pacific Islander descent are all at increased risk for developing the disease. For example, Black or African American people comprise 13% of the U.S. population but represent 35% of those with kidney failure, treated with dialysis, or kidney transplantation.

A joint task force was formed between NKF and the American Society of Nephrology (ASN) to evaluate various approaches that would remove race from the old equation.

The task force recommended the adoption of the new eGFR 2021 CKD-EPI creatinine equation without a race variable as well as increased use of cystatin C combined with serum (blood) creatinine, as a confirmatory assessment of GFR or

kidney function. NKF and ASN affirm that race is a social construct, not a biological one so using race as a factor for estimating kidney function is not an acceptable approach. This shift in approach reflects a broader call to re-examine institutional policies and practices and to identify potential areas of health inequities and disparities.

“We’re committed to seeing all labs and healthcare providers standardize on the use of this race-free approach, one that the NKF-ASN Joint Task Force worked together on for 10 months with considerable input from hundreds of patients and family members, medical students and trainees, clinicians, scientists, health professionals, and other public stakeholders,” said Kevin Longino, CEO of the NKF and a kidney transplant patient. “Although this new equation is only one first step in addressing the health inequalities present in healthcare today, this new race-free equation provides an unbiased, standardized approach for all laboratories in the United States to diagnose kidney diseases.”

A Laboratory Engagement Initiative Workgroup comprised of NKF in collaboration with the American Society of Clinical Pathology, the laboratory community, and clinical laboratory societies have developed content and tools aimed at advancing an earlier diagnosis of kidney disease and urged improvements in kidney disease laboratory testing.

“We appreciate how quickly the Laboratory Engagement Initiative Workgroup developed the tools needed to support

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laboratories implementing this new race-free approach to calculating eGFR,” said NKF Chief Medical Officer Joseph Vassalotti, MD. “Through health services research we know that healthcare inequalities in historically disadvantaged communities begin long before kidney failure develops. Addressing the ongoing severe health disparities is critically important, particularly as COVID-19 exacerbates these inequities.”

As the HEAC celebrates its one-year anniversary, this 13-member team continues to support, direct, and champion NKF’s health equity initiatives, community health, and social justice efforts through research, education, and key partnerships. This committee worked collaboratively throughout the year with kidney patients, other NKF committees, as well as board members, and NKF staff to advise in the design, implementation, and evaluation of numerous programs that support stronger, healthier communities. Some of the HEAC accomplishments throughout the year included: NKF encourages all Americans to stay informed on how to achieve optimal kidney health and if you have kidney disease and identify as Black or African American, please ask your doctor about the new race-free approach to determine your level of kidney function. Join the conversation on social media during Black History Month by using the hashtag #blackhistorymonth.

To learn more about NKF, kidney disease, or the new race-free way to estimate GFR, go to https://www.kidney.org/kidney-basics.

PRNewsfoto/National Kidney Foundation

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REALM PICTURES AIMS TO DISRUPT HOLLYWOOD’S ELITIST BUSINESS MODEL LOS ANGELES PRNewswire -- The power brokers of Hollywood have long been the omnipotent gatekeepers to the entertainment industry. According to Realm Pictures International, it’s time to shatter that stranglehold and open the industry to outstanding undiscovered talent, particularly women and artists of color. Realm has launched a revolutionary production model that will break brilliant young technical, literary, and performing artists emerging from America’s Historically Black Colleges and Universities into the $2.3 trillion global media industry.

Based on Andrew Ward’s critically acclaimed post-Civil-War epic “Dark Midnight When I Rise,” Realm’s flagship movie “Steal Away” is about The Fisk Jubilee Singers and their quest to save the fledgling HBCUs from supremacist destruction. “Steal Away is Gone with the Wind from the African-American perspective,” says Blake, “and will feature a diverse international cast, the strongest Black female lead in motion picture history, and a soundtrack by multi-Grammy winning composer Billy Childs.”

“Realm believes that outstanding artists unable to procure a Hollywood agent should have the same opportunities as A-list artists,” says Stephen Ashley Blake, Realm’s founder and CEO. “Our production model disrupts Hollywood’s elitist practices by leveling the playing field.” The casting call for ‘Steal Away’ immediately drew over 12,000 submissions for just 12 out of the movie’s 65 roles.

Realm is currently holding auditions with both A-list artists and lesser known but outstanding actors.

Realm’s commitments extend to philanthropy. Blake asserts that the nation’s HBCUs are teeming with some of the most brilliant minds on Earth, and pledges to join the HBCUs’ crusade to build meaningful futures for hundreds of thousands of gifted students by financially endowing the HBCUs with 10% of Steal Away’s net profits from the movie’s theatrical release, a revenue-sharing structure that could deliver up to $75 million to support emerging talent.

Realm has launched a campaign to raise Steal Away’s $34.7 million production budget both via investment financing and corporate sponsorships. To achieve this, the for-profit company has partnered with 501(c)3 fiscal sponsor Fractured Atlas.

According to forecasts by Nash Information Services, median gross revenues for “Steal Away” are projected to potentially reach $712 million across global theatrical, streaming, home video, television, and ancillary distribution platforms. Equity Investors are projected to receive a potential median ROI of 245%, with a potential high of 917%.

Realm is creating spectacularly diverse blockbuster entertainment while breaking brilliant undiscovered talent and financially endowing the nation’s HBCUs. Learn more at https://www.realmpictures.co/.

Bounce to premiere sixth and final season of ‘Saints & Sinners’ on April 3 ATLANTA PRNewswire --­The saints and the sinners will have a winner-take-all clash this spring.

Bounce, the popular broadcast and multi-platform entertainment network serving African Americans, will air the sixth and final season of its hit original drama series “Saints & Sinners” Sunday nights at 8 p.m.

ET/PT, starting Sunday, April 3.

“Saints & Sinners has been a breakthrough success, attracting a huge and loyal fanbase and taking them on a rollercoaster ride every season,” said David Hudson, head of original programming for Bounce and an executive producer of PRNewsFoto the series. “We thank our amazing cast and crew for an incredible run and look forward to sharing the final eight episodes with viewers Sunday nights this spring.”

Consumers can catch up on “Saints & Sinners” on Brown Sugar, Bounce’s subscription-video-on-demand service. “Saints & Sinners” seasons 1-5 are available in their entirety with final-season

episodes being added every Monday after their Bounce premieres.

Set against the backdrop of a large southern church, “Saints & Sinners” centers around the pursuit of power, intertwined with greed, deception, corruption, compromising sexual affairs and murder. The cast is led by Vanessa Bell Calloway and Clifton Powell, with an ensemble featuring Tray Chaney, Keith Robinson, J.D. Williams, Jasmine Burke, Donna Biscoe, Christian Keyes, Dawn Halfkenny, Karlie Redd, Ashani Roberts and Kaye Singleton.

“Saints & Sinners” is produced in partnership with Swirl Film’s Eric Tomosunas & Ron Robinson (“Behind the Movement: The Rosa Parks Story,” “Love Under New Management: The Miki Howard Story,” “Tales, Pride & Prejudice”). Nigel Campbell serves as the showrunner/executive producer of the series.

Visit www.BrownSugar.com for more information.

Based on Andrew Ward’s epic Dark Midnight When I Rise, Steal Away is the legendary true story of Ella Sheppard and the Fisk Jubilee Singers, a warrior choir of young former slaves fighting the KKK’s reign of terror against their schools, not with bullets or bombs but electrifying songs of faith and freedom. One of the most breathtaking sagas ever known, Steal Away is a timeless story poised to become a beloved classic. PRNewsFoto

African American-Led Force Indy Race Team Elevates to Indy Lights with Driver Francis INDIANAPOLIS PRNewswire -- Force Indy Race Team has announced its entry for the 2022 Indy Lights Presented by Cooper Tires championship with Ernie Francis Jr. driving the team’s No. 99 car.

Haitian American Francis heads to Force Indy after three wins in his lone season in the Formula Regional Americas Championship and a second-place finish in the inaugural season of the Superstar Racing Experience (SRX), with a win at Lucas Oil Indianapolis Raceway Park.

Florida native Francis, 24, is also a seven-time class champion in the Trans Am Series (2014-2020). His 47 career victories are the most of any driver in Trans Am history. His 24 wins in the premier TA category trail only Paul Gentilozzi (31), Mark Donohue (29) and Tommy Kendall (28).

“This is an incredible opportunity,” Francis said. “After getting a taste last year and beginning to learn what open-wheel racing is all about, I found myself wanting more. Open-wheel cars are incredible to drive. To know that I’ll continue my education with Force Indy and only one step away from the NTT INDYCAR SERIES makes this unbelievably special. I cannot wait to get started.”

In December 2020, African American business leader and former racing team manager Rod Reid announced the formation of Force Indy with the focus on hiring men and women of color, including mechanics, engineers, staffers and drivers. During its inaugural season in the Cooper Tires USF2000 Championship, the team won in thrilling fashion at New Jersey Motorsports Park with driver Myles Rowe.

“Being able to finish our first season with a win showed what this team is capable of doing,” Reid said. “We want to thank Myles, who will always be a member of the Force Indy race team, and will continue to offer assistance and mentorship as he pursues another season in USF2000.

“I could not be more thrilled to promote our group to the Indy Lights Presented by Cooper Tires championship with Ernie Francis Jr. His work ethic and history of success speak for itself.”

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Uplifting Black Men Conference invites students, community members to lift their voices The seventh annual Uplifting Black Men Conference, to be held virtually on Saturday, Feb. 19, borrowed its theme of “Lift Your Voice” from a beloved source: the hymn “Lift Every Voice and Sing,” widely considered the Black national anthem.

“It is a song that reflects upon the heritage of African Americans in their story of the tension between hope and despair,” said Patrick Wallace, assistant director of the Student Success Center and a conference organizer.

“That’s the vision of this conference: teaching people how to speak hope in despair, no matter where they are.”

The Uplifting Black Men conference debuted in 2016 to create a space of belonging and empowerment for young Black men at Virginia Tech and beyond. Between 300 and 500 students, faculty, staff, alumni, high school students, and community members are expected to attend the free event. “The conference is not just for Black men,” said Kimberly Smith, associate vice provost of Student Success Initiatives. “It’s open to any individual who wants to support the academic and social success of Black men.”

This year’s keynote speaker will be Fred Bonner II, a professor and endowed chair in educational leadership and counseling and founding executive director of the Minority Achievement, Creativity, and High-Ability (MACH-III) Center at Prairie View A&M University, a Historically Black College and University in Prairie View, Texas. Bonner studies issues of diversity and inclusion in higher education,

including the success of academically gifted African American male college students.

Breakout sessions will add to the theme of lifting one’s voice personally, socially, academically, and professionally, with speakers that include Sylvester A. Johnson, assistant vice provost for the humanities; Wayne A. Scales, the J. Byron Maupin Professor of Engineering in the Bradley Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering; and DeLeon Gray, CEO of Black and Belonging and an associate professor of educational psychology and equity at North Carolina State University.

For Wallace, the goal of the conference is twofold: to help Black students see their own potential, and to let them know “they’re not here alone, that there is an initiative that is supporting and advocating

for their academic success, advocating for their future.”

Wallace, a native of Philadelphia, doesn’t remember receiving that kind of support as an undergraduate at Penn State. But as the director of Virginia Tech’s Black Male Excellence Network (BMEN), he hopes to engage Black students academically and socially with programming like the Uplifting Black Men conference or study sessions in the library.

BMEN also sponsors the Barbershop Talk Series, which brings the wisdom and story-sharing of a traditional Black cultural space to campus with facilitated conversations. “It’s a space for students to be able to talk about their concerns and their anxieties, their worries, but also their hopes and their passions and their joys, things that are pertinent to their lives and to their experiences,” said Wallace. The next Barbershop Talk will take place Feb. 23 in the Black Cultural Center on campus.

For a conference that falls during Black History Month, “Lift Your Voice” is the perfect message, said Smith. “It’s meant to be empowering to the students.

They have a voice of their own, and we want them to feel confident in expressing that voice.”

The Uplifting Black Men Conference will take place from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday, Feb. 19.

Register for the virtual conference here. For questions, or to get involved in BMEN, contact Patrick Wallace at patrickw21@vt.edu.

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HOME REMODELING (Family Features) When you decide to make the investment in a home improvement project, you’re likely entrusting a professional contractor to bring your vision to life on time and on budget.

Remodeling contractors are diverse, so it’s important to take your time, ask lots of questions and do your research before selecting the right one for the job. Keep in mind these considerations from the experts at the National Association of the Remodeling Industry: Choose local. A local home improvement contractor with an established business in your area is likely connected to your community and has a vested interest in doing a job well. Referrals are an important source of business for local companies, so local remodelers are typically compelled to perform quality work that satisfies their customers in order for their businesses to survive.

Discuss experience. While a skilled remodeler may be willing to take on something new, chances are you’ll be best served by working

with someone who has experience with your specific project. A learning curve can be expensive, and the results aren’t always exactly as you hope. Talk about similar projects the contractor has completed in the past and how that work compares to what you’re planning. Also be sure to ask what, if any, outside certifications a contractor may have earned that are pertinent to the project.

Understand staffing. Be sure you’re clear about who will be in your home completing the work, whether it’s the person you meet to discuss a bid or an assigned team. Ask who the project supervisor will be, and if any work is to be subcontracted, who is ultimately responsible for those tasks.

Check references. A reputable contractor should be able to produce a list of past customers who can attest to the remodeler’s workmanship and service. You can contact the government Consumer Affairs Office and the Better Business Bureau to check for complaints on record for the contractor. Also ask if the remodeler is a member

of any trade groups or associations.

Verify licensing. Many states, but not all, require contractors to be licensed, bonded or both.

Contact your state or local licensing agencies to ensure the contractor meets all requirements. Ask the remodeling contractor for current copies of applicable licenses.

Confirm insurance. Ask to see a copy of the remodeling contractor’s certification of insurance or the name of his or her insurance agency to verify coverage. Most states require a contractor to carry worker’s compensation, property damage and personal liability insurance. Make sure the contractor’s insurance coverage meets all the minimum requirements.

Compare bids. There are a number of different factors that go into pricing a remodeling project. Be sure that every estimate reflects the same scope of work. If the estimates don’t fully spell out what work is going to be done, go back to the contractor for clarification in writing.

Find more tips for selecting a contractor at remodelingdoneright.com.

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PHOTO SOURCE: (c) YakobchukOlena / iStock via Getty Images Plus _______________________ (StatePoint) Are you wondering if it’s time to give your child a smartphone? While age may seem important, maturity levels play a big role in letting you know if your child is ready to handle the responsibility of owning a connected device. It’s always important to weigh the pros and cons.

The benefits of a smartphone and internet access are that they offer a wealth of educational opportunities for students. Children are early adopters of the latest technology and in many cases, can absorb and digest information easier and much faster than adults.

The downside is that children have access to everything on the internet, including potentially inappropriate content.

The good news is that there are many safety and monitoring apps and tools available, some at low or no cost to you. For example, T-Mobile offers Family Mode, an app that allows the primary account holder to monitor a child’s internet access when the app is downloaded on the device. T-Mobile also offers Family Allowances, an app that for a small monthly fee, allows you to assign allowances for the number of minutes, texts, downloaded content and money spent on downloadable apps. It also allows you to block your child’s use of their devices during certain times of the day, such as school, during homework, dinner time or at night.

Google Family Link is another option that is free of cost and provides you with the ability to monitor your child’s web activity, limit daily phone access, and approve or decline downloadable app purchases. You can also check with your internet provider or wireless smartphone provider to see what child safety features are available with your current plan.

If your child isn’t quite ready for a phone, but you still want to have the ability to monitor and communicate with them, a connected smartwatch may be the next best option. T-Mobile recently launched SyncUP KIDS Watch, which features real-time location tracking, talk and text with approved contacts only, virtual boundary alerts, silent mode to use during school, and a help button that alerts pre-set emergency contacts when pushed. It has safety feature that parents want, but is also fun for kids, with a camera to snap and record moments, plus interactive games. To learn more, visit t-mobile.com.

Having safety tools and features available at the swipe of your fingertips will put your mind at ease and help create healthy habits when your child navigates the digital world, with or without you around. _____________________________________

Darrell Garth President /Publisher Janice Garth Sales Manager General Manager Tia Carol Jones Managing Editior 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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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.

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