CHICAGO WEEKEND CITIZEN 7-31-2019

Citizen 23 College Scholarships Awarded To Young Men in Chicago At Annual Gala — Page 3 Week of July 31, 2019

| Vol. 50 | No. 31 | www.thechicagocitizen.com

CHICAGO WEEKEND

Nathaniel Andrews, 71, said he recently paid $500 to retrieve his 2005 Ford Focus vehicle that he said was booted for unpaid tickets his wife accumulated in 2005. Photo credit: By Wendell Hutson

MOTORISTS WELCOME REFORMS FOR FINES AND FEES New reforms proposed by the mayor at a recent City Council meeting for fines and fees pertaining to city stickers, red light camera violations and parking tickets come a little too late for some motorists. PAGE 2

BUSINESS Bayer Earns Top Marks in 2019 Disability Equality Index PAGE 4

FASHION

ENTERTAINMENT

Gap Celebrates Back To School with the Launch of ‘Forward’ Campaign

Hanna Lee Communications Takes Books from Concept to Publishing, with Built-In Promotion

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NEWS briefly EDUCATION

78% OF RECENT GRADS: STUDENT LOANS LIMIT LIFE, LEADING SOME TO FEEL REGRET In order to see how big an impact student loan debt has, Student Loan Hero surveyed borrowers who graduated in the last five years. The survey found that nearly 8 of 10 recent college graduates report that their student loan debt has hindered their life in some significant way, leaving them stagnant.

For close to half of survey respondents, high student loan debt has led to regrets about how much they borrowed (46%) and what they studied in college (46%). More interesting, however, is that those who work in a field related to their college major were more confident about handling their monthly loan payment (55%) than those who do something else for a living (34%).

To view the full report, visit https://studentloanhero.com/featured/graduates-student-loan-debt-financial-milestones-survey/

HEALTH

EVERGREEN PARK HOSPITAL AND FACILITIES EXPECTED TO MERGE WITH OSF HEALTHCARE OSF HealthCare and Little Company of Mary Hospital and Health Care Centers have entered into a period of exclusive negotiations, anticipating a full merger. The two organizations will spend the next several months finalizing agreements and seeking the necLittle Company of Mary essary regulatory and Hospital exterior. canonical approvals.

“As health care continues to evolve, we have the responsibility to ensure that we are planning for the future – both in terms of technology and innovation as well as preserving Catholic health care,” said John Hanlon, MD, MMM, president and CEO, Little Company of Mary Hospital and Health Care Centers. “OSF HealthCare is a leader in transforming health care, and we believe our firm foundation of faith and collective sense of purpose and mission will allow for sustained quality, coordinated care and innovation.”

The merger is expected to take place in early 2020, according to a press release.

LAW & POLITICS

WORKING MOTHER RECOGNIZES SHOOK’S CULTURE AND RANKS FIRM AMONG BEST LAW FIRMS FOR WOMEN Working Mother magazine has selected Shook, Hardy & Bacon for its prestigious list of the 2019 “60 Best Law Firms for Women.” Led

by Chair Madeleine McDonough, this is the eighth time in the past dozen years Shook has earned the honor.

The magazine noted Shook’s inaugural “Diversity Sponsor Award” created by the firm’s Junior Women’s Management Council. The firm recognizes an attorney who mentors women and diverse attorneys by providing opportunities for growth, leadership, advancement and visibility. In 2019, Partner Adrienne Byard earned the accolade.

Motorists welcome reforms for fines and fees Continued from page 1

BY WENDELL HUTSON Contributing Writer

New reforms proposed by the mayor at a recent City Council meeting for fines and fees pertaining to city stickers, red light camera violations and parking tickets come a little too late for some motorists.

“I accumulated a lot of tickets I could not pay and my driver’s license was suspended, and I need my license to make a living, so I filed bankruptcy to wipe out the $3,900 debt,” said Jeremy Patterson, 46. “I live in Hyde Park where parking is scarce especially at night when I usually get home from work as a truck driver.”

There are many more Chicagoans like Patterson who said they ruined their credit when they filed bankruptcy to eliminate debt incurred from parking fines and fees, which doubles if it is not paid by the due date.

According to the U.S. Bankruptcy Court for the Northern District of Illinois, Cook County, which includes Chicago, leads the nation in Chapter 13 bankruptcies. And about two-thirds of Cook County bankruptcies including vehicle debt is owed to the city of Chicago.

Precious Walker, 29, said she had four red light camera violations for speeding and each ticket was $100, but increased to $200 each when she could not pay.

“I tried to get on a payment plan but could not come up with a down payment because I am not working right now,” explained Walker.

“Next thing I knew the tickets doubled to $800, which is more than what I pay for rent.

I eventually came up with the down payment but now I am paying more and struggling to keep up with my payments.”

Mayor Lori Lightfoot said because so

The city of Chicago collects about $70 million annually in traffic fees and fines, which includes booted vehicles for outstanding tickets. Photo credit: By Wendell Hutson

many Chicagoans are struggling to pay absorbent traffic fees and fines that reforms were needed. At a July 24 City Council meeting, the mayor introduced her reforms that includes late purchases for city stickers.

“The bold reforms we’re announcing are designed to be the first step in ending the practices of balancing the budget on the backs of those who can least afford it,” said Lightfoot.” By adopting these reforms Chicago can provide people real pathways and not obstacles to pay their debt while also receiving revenue that may otherwise remain unpaid.”

She added that the city of Chicago currently uses revenues (more than $70 million) raised by fines and fees annually to help fund maintenance of Chicago roads, viaducts and other critical infrastructure needs. And collection of fines and fees as well as parking enforcement, such as booting vehicles, is handled by the city’s Department of Revenue.

Changes include eliminating driver’s license suspensions for 10 or more non-driving violations; reducing city vehicle

sticker penalties; make payment plans more accessible by creating a six-month payment plan for all motorists, while also reducing down payment requirements; and a change with booted vehicles. Motorists will now be able to request a 24-hour extension to pay their fines in full or get on a payment plan after being booted.

Fines for not purchasing a city sticker within a time limit will no longer double to $400 from $200. Instead, the city will reinstate the 15-day grace period for city sticker tickets after expiration, and there will no longer be same-day or consecutive day ticketing for compliance violations.

For example, if a motorist already received a ticket for an expired meter, they would not receive another expired meter ticket on the same day if the vehicle remains at the same location. And city sticker tickets would be capped at a maximum of $250 for late failure to pay on time.

That all sounds good and dandy, said South Shore resident Nathaniel Andrews, who added the reforms do not go far enough.

“There needs to be a statue of limitations for parking and traffic violations because as it stands right now, you could be hit with paying tickets you got years ago,” said the 71-year-old retiree. “My car was booted for tickets that my wife got in 2006 before we got married.”

As a result of his car (2005 Ford Focus) being booted and impounded, Andrews said he was unable to work part-time as an Uber driver.

He said it cost $500 to get his car back but by doing so it created a hardship for his family.

“I do ride sharing because I need extra money to survive but without a car I cannot do anything,” added Andrews. “I like the mayor but she needs to do more to help us law abiding citizens stay residents of Chicago.”

Extension filers: Don’t panic, just go to IRS.gov for help The deadline for taxpayers who requested an extension to file is going to be here before they know it. The deadline for these filers to submit their 2018 tax returns is Tuesday, October 15, 2019. Taxpayers who have not yet filed can find many helpful resources on IRS.gov Here are a few of them: IRS Free File Taxpayers with yearly income of $66,000 or less can file using free brand-name tax software.

Those who earned more can use Free File Fillable Forms, the electronic version of IRS paper forms. Either way, everyone has a free e-file option. Filing electronically is the easiest, safest and most accurate way to

file taxes.

Interactive Tax Assistant and IRS Tax Map Use these tools to answer many common tax questions.

Directory of Tax Return Preparers For taxpayers who don’t want to do their own taxes, this tool can help find a tax professional in their area.

Where’s My Refund?

Taxpayers can check the status of their refund within 24 hours after the IRS has received their e-filed return. Those who file a paper return can check the refund status four weeks after mailing it. Once the IRS

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The deadline for taxpayers who requested an extension to file is going to be here before they know it. Taxpayers can file earlier but should file by October 15 to avoid a potential late filing penalty.

approves a refund, this tool will give the taxpayer a date by which to expect it. The IRS updates refund statuses once a day.

Taxpayers can also find helpful information on their smart phones through the IRS2Go app.

Taxpayers can file earlier but should file by October 15 to

avoid a potential late filing penalty. Penalties and Interest might apply if taxpayers owe taxes and do not pay in a timely manner.

The IRS offers a variety of ways for taxpayers to pay their taxes, including IRS Direct Pay. For more information, visit IRS.gov or for help, visit https:// go.usa.gov/xyNzy

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NEWS

23 College Scholarships Awarded To Young Men in Chicago At Annual Gala

BY KATHERINE NEWMAN

In April of 1982, 34-year-old Ezekiel Taylor tragically lost his life when three young men stole his car as he stopped at a fast-food restaurant on 79th Street and Stony Island Avenue after church one day.

Decades later, his daughter Tenisha Taylor founded the Ezekiel Taylor Scholarship Foundation to honor his memory. The foundation recently hosted it’s Third Annual Ezekiel Taylor Scholarship Foundation Gala and Silent Auction where 23 young men received college scholarships.

“Unfortunately, tragedy struck my family when I was really young and my dad was killed in a carjacking,” said Taylor. “As I got older and worked in the news industry, I was reporting back on what is happening here in our city, the senseless gun violence, and what is happening to our young people. I wondered how I could help impact change and also how could I pair that with honoring my father at the same time so we launched the Ezekiel Taylor Scholarship Foundation.”

Over the last three years, the Ezekiel Taylor Scholarship Foundation has awarded over 50 scholarships and caught the attention of celebrities, major news networks, and big-name sponsors. This year’s event was sponsored by Tito’s Handmade Vodka, Zip Car Chicago, GN Bank, Miss Jessie’s, Chicago Public Schools, and Dunlap Security to name a few.

Nationally recognized journalist, Roland S. Martin, served as the gala’s honorary chairman and NBC 5’s Art Norman hosted the annual gala.

7th Ward Alderman, Greg Mitchell, and radio personality Crazy Howard Mcgee also showed their support for the foundation at the recent event.

“As a proud Grambling State University Alumnus, I am especially proud that several of the young men have chosen to attend HBCU’s

Tenisha Taylor (middle) is the founder of the Ezekial Taylor Scholarship Foundation which recently hosted its annual gala where 23 young men received college scholarships. Photo Credit: Ezekial Taylor Scholarship Foundation

such as Howard, Fisk, Morehouse, Clark Atlanta, Alabama A&M, and Central State,” said Alderman Mitchell. “I have no doubt that each of these impressive and talented young men will achieve great success and one day mentor, empower and encourage those that follow in their footsteps.”

Beyond receiving a scholarship, the young men who were honored at the gala also receive mentorship through the Ezekiel Taylor Schol-

arship Foundation. The college students can reach out to Taylor directly and also have their own mentor who connects with them monthly.

“Our door stays open to these young men 24/7 and they all have my phone number,” said Taylor. “Their mentors are like their life coach and they are attached to them for four years.

We are committed to them for four years and once you get in with our program we want to

see you finish and see it through. We want to make sure that you graduate and make it across that stage at graduation with a college degree.”

The Ezekiel Taylor Scholarship Foundation is a grassroots effort and the organization is always accepting donations online which go directly into the scholarship fund.

To learn more or to make a donation, visit www.eztaylor.org.

2019 Farmers Market Season at Loyola University Chicago Open Now Through October

The 2019 Farmers Market Season at Loyola University Chicago is free and open to the public. Illinois Link cards, Senior Farmers’ Market Nutrition Program coupons, and Women, Infants, and Children Program coupons are accepted.

The Loyola University Chicago Farmers Market seeks to increase access to healthy, locally grown and produced foods for the community and supports the local food economy by including family farms and local producers. The market will run through October 14 at the Loyola Plaza, located outside the CTA’s Red Line Loyola ‘L’ station.

The market is free and open to the public and accepts Illinois Link cards, Senior Farmers’ Market Nutrition Program coupons, and Women, Infants, and Children Program coupons. www.thechicagocitizen.com

Illinois Link cardholders who spend up to $25 will also receive up to an additional $25 on fresh fruits and vegetables per market day, per card.

Support for Link cards is provided by the nonprofit incubator Experimental Station’s LINK Up Illinois program, which offers grants to Illinois farmers markets to support access for Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program participants.

The market is supported by Loyola’s Institute of Environmental Sustainability, Office of Civic En-

gagement, and Facilities, Campus Safety, and Finance Departments.

For more information about the market, including a full list of vendors, visit LUC.edu/farmersmarket.

MARKET DETAILS When: Mondays, 4–8 p.m.

The market will be closed on September 2.

Where: Loyola Plaza 6550 N. Sheridan Road Chicago, IL 60626

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BUSINESS

Bayer Earns Top Marks in 2019 Disability Equality Index For the first time, Bayer U.S. earned an 80 in the 2019 Disability Equality Index (DEI), and was recognized as a Best Place to Work for Disability Inclusion. DEI is the most comprehensive disability inclusion assessment tool designed and embraced by both business leaders and disability advocates across the United States.

“We are honored to be recognized as one of the best places to work for disability inclusion,” said Philip Blake, president of Bayer U.S. “Improving our policies and benefits for employees with disabilities is a major priority for us. Earning a top score from Disability:IN is proof of Bayer’s Members of the Bayer team accepted the honor of 2019 DEI Best Places to Work for Disability Inclusion at commitment to bettering the lives of our a dinner gala in Chicago, IL on July 17. Pictured from employees and their families.” left to right: Daphanie Pointer, Lydia Pranke, Leela Bayer’s Employee Resource Groups are Dasari, Babette Simon and Leigh Ann Oravecz. an integral part of the company’s efforts to employment outcomes for and inclusion of people meet the needs of employees with diverse with disabilities, as employees, customers and backgrounds and needs. ENABLE is Bayer’s suppliers,” said Jill Houghton, president and CEO global community that is dedicated to the overall of Disability:IN. “When businesses include people wellness and development of employees and their with disabilities, everybody wins.” families with visible and non-obvious disabilities.

This year, 180 companies participated in the The 2019 DEI evaluates inclusion criteria DEI, of which 113 were Fortune 500 companies. for culture and leadership, enterprise-wide This represents a work force of more than 8.6 access, employment practices, such as benefits, million, with 3.7% of employees identifying employment education and accommodations, in as having a disability. In addition, 28 business addition to community engagement, and supplier sectors participated, including financial services, diversity. technology, insurance, and health care.

“The DEI is designed to promote and advance For more information on the 2019 Disability disability inclusion practices and policies Equality Index, visit https://disabilityin.org. within corporate America that lead to better

Illinois Payrolls Up 11,400 in June Unemployment Rate Drops to 4.3 Percent The Illinois Department of Employment Security (IDES) recently announced that nonfarm payrolls increased +11,400 jobs overthe-month and the unemployment rate was 4.3 percent in June, down -0.1 percentage point from the prior month, based on preliminary data provided by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) and released by IDES. The May jobs decline was revised from the preliminary report (from -2,400 to +2,300 jobs).

Illinois payroll employment has shown variability since the beginning of the year, as have National payrolls. Average payroll employment growth in Illinois during the April to June three-month period, which provides a more stable measure of payroll employment change, was +10,700 jobs, with the largest gains in Leisure and Hospitality (+3,800), Professional and Business Services (+3,000) and Government (+1,500).

“Job growth remains strong in Illinois, and this administration looks forward to continuing to build on that growth with policies aimed at lifting up working families,” said Deputy Governor Dan Hynes. “With a balanced budget, a bipartisan capital plan investing in horizontal and vertical infrastructure, and legislation to raise wages and support small businesses, we are confident we are laying the groundwork for long term economic growth across Illinois.”

Over-the-year, nonfarm payroll employment increased by +79,200 jobs with the largest gains in these industry sectors

in June: Professional and Business Services (+19,400), Leisure and Hospitality (+18,100) and Educational and Health Services (+15,200).

The industry sectors with over-theyear declines were: Information (-2,900), Construction (-300) and Mining (-200).

Illinois nonfarm payrolls were up +1.3 percent over-the-year as compared to the nation’s +1.5 percent over-the-year gain in June.

The state’s unemployment rate is +0.6 percentage points higher than the national unemployment rate reported for June 2019, which rose to 3.7 percent. The Illinois unemployment rate was unchanged from a year ago when it was 4.3 percent.

The number of unemployed workers decreased from the prior month, -2.7 percent to 277,400, and was up +0.5 percent over the same month for the prior year. The labor force was up +0.1 percentage point over-themonth and +0.4 percentage point over-theyear. The unemployment rate identifies those individuals who are out of work and are seeking employment.

An individual who exhausts or is ineligible for benefits is still reflected in the unemployment rate if they actively seek work.

To help connect jobseekers to employers who are hiring, IDES’ maintains the state’s largest job search engine, IllinoisJoblink.com (IJL), which recently showed 59,345 posted resumes with 93,110 jobs available.

BRIEFLY

Students traveled from across the country to participate in the 2019 National Black MBA Association® Leaders of Tomorrow® Leadership Summit at Georgetown University.

National Black MBA Association® Leaders of Tomorrow® Leadership Summit Held at Georgetown University More than 130 students from across the country traveled to participate in the 2019 National Black MBA Association® Leaders of Tomorrow® Leadership Summit at Georgetown University for leadership training and academic workshops from June 26th to June 30th. During the LOT® Summit, students participated in engaging breakout sessions with motivational speakers and inspiring business leaders and entrepreneurs, along with college and corporate campus tours including a visit to Google, Howard University School of Business, and the Smithsonian National Museum of African American History & Culture. www.thechicagocitizen.com

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FASHION

Gap Celebrates Back To School with the Launch of ‘Forward’ Campaign Gap, the iconic American clothing brand, recently launched the GapKids ‘Forward’ Back To School campaign. In an effort to propel the next generation in the direction of their strengths, the ‘Forward’ campaign celebrates creative self-expression and kids who are breaking boundaries.

Set to an original version of Guns N’ Roses’ “Sweet Child O’ Mine,” the ‘Forward’ hero campaign video encourages kids to push forward into a world of their own creation.

Featuring a cast of real kids who are pushing forward faster than we can keep up, the video captures the confident attitude of the next generation by celebrating a diverse range of kids who are bold by nature.

The cast includes: Salem Darling, Electric Guitarist – Don’t let this sweet girl fool you. @salem_darling can shred on her electric guitar with the best of them. And at 13 years old, she already knows “If you put a lot of work into what you love, then eventually you will get to wherever you want to go.”

Avett Ray, Pianist – 7-year-old @avettray may be blind, but this self-taught piano sensation has his sights on a big future. While he admits he can pretty much play any instrument he wants, he’s all about the piano because he can “rock it,” and one day it’s gonna make him a rockstar.

Lil Asmar, Bass – 12-year-old bass guitarist @lilasmar hopes to inspire other kids to keep moving forward.

“Whatever you want to do, just do it. No one can tell you to stop.”

‘The Twits’ (Recker Eans, Drummer & Camden Edie, Electric Guitar) – 11-year-old guitarist @camden.edie and 9-year-old drummer @recker are ready to rock the world together “because we know there is just stuff waiting out there for us.”

Emmanuel Hurd, Dancer – 11-year-old @manny. cross2 of @thehurdfamily wants to be the best dancer in the world. But he also knows “this is just the beginning.

I’m only just getting started.”

L.J. Wilson, Drummer, 5 - “When I play the drums, I

Let kids go! Let them show us their way FORWARD. #GapToSchool

am fearless.” - @babyboydrummer “Back to School is the first of many exciting moments as we mark the 50th year for Gap. This campaign is all about giving kids the confidence they need to take on amazing opportunities to grow and take big strides forward,” said Gap senior vice president and chief marketing officer Alegra O’Hare. “We were able to tap into the spirit of some very inspiring kids like Salem and Avett who are breaking boundaries every day and even had the chance to put their own spin on a legendary rock song. Guns N’ Roses’ “Sweet Child O’ Mine” is the perfect back to school anthem, celebrating creativity and confidence for a new generation of kids.”

The bold cast wear the Fall GapKids assortment of comfortable yet on-trend fall fashion that allows its kids to express their personality. From denim jeans, jackets and dresses in colorful and traditional hues, striped t-shirts with flippy sequin pockets, cozy puffer jackets in pop-colors and statement camo and animal print tops and bottoms, alongside pieces that are a subtle nod to Gap’s 50 year heritage such as namesake logo hoodies and sweatshirts. Playful wanderlust graphics and positive affirming messages are inscribed throughout the collection to make kids feel confident about every step they take out into a world they will one day lead.

11-year-old @manny.cross2 of @thehurdfamily wants to be the best dancer in the world. But he also knows “this is just the beginning. I’m only just getting started.” #GapToSchool

Hair Club® Celebrates Its 43rd Birthday by Giving Back

Hair Club is giving back to the community by donating school supplies to the Boys & Girls Club (B&GC).

Hair Club is celebrating 43 years as the leader in hair enhancement, treatment, and restoration. For nearly half a century, Hair Club has been providing solutions to improve hair health, thinning, and loss to more than 500,000 clients in over 120 locations across the United States, Canada, and Puerto Rico.

In celebration of another banner year, Hair Club is giving back to the community by donating school supplies to the Boys & Girls Club (B&GC).

Employees and clients from all centers as well as the corporate office will donate needed items at Hair Club centers throughout the United States and online www.thechicagocitizen.com

through YouGiveGoods. Donations will directly benefit the B&GC location nearest each Hair Club center. The centers will compete to give the most generous birthday gift to Hair Club through their contributions.

“We’re thrilled to celebrate another milestone on our journey to helping people regain hair they love. I am extremely proud when I reflect on what Hair Club has accomplished. I’m equally excited as I look toward the future of Hair Club,” commented Mike Nassar, Hair Club’s president and CEO. “Philanthropy is in Hair Club’s DNA; it’s at the core of our culture. I can’t think

of a better way to celebrate another year than to give back to the communities that support our centers. Hair Club is a proud supporter of education. We’re honored to partner with the Boys & Girls Club for this cause to help children in need.”

In 2018, Hair Club honored its birthday by hosting a FUNdraiser to benefit the victims of Hurricane Maria.

Employees were able to purchase perks such as wearing flip flops or hats to work. Hair Club matched the purchases and paid $1.00 for each “smile” posted to the Hair Club Yammer. Hair Club raised over $18,000 for the people of Puerto Rico.

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NEWS

5 Reasons Kids Should Play Outside More StatePoint - Whether it’s dance lessons, computer projects, art class or yoga, kids these days are busy bees. And while such activities are enriching and fun, experts say that many kids aren’t spending enough time doing something much simpler and every bit as important as structured programming: playing outdoors.

“Finding time for the kids to play outside can be such a challenge for parents,” says Keri Wilmot, a pediatric occupational therapist and an expert contributor to TheGeniusofPlay.org.

“As a parent, I worry about ‘stranger danger’ or whether my kids will be able to navigate social issues on their own. Without spontaneity, playtime has lost some of it’s fun.”

Outdoor play is necessary for healthy child development, according to The Genius of Play. The initiative, whose mission is to raise awareness about the importance of play and help parents make play a critical part of raising their kids, is sharing five benefits of unstructured outdoor playtime: • Physical Development: Research has shown that physically active kids tend to be leaner and healthier, while an inactive childhood can lead to a sedentary (and likely unhealthy) lifestyle in adulthood. Furthermore, physical play builds gross and fine motor skills necessary for success in school and beyond. Hanging from the monkey bars, for instance, helps kids develop

Playtime is essential for children. To promote health, happiness and confidence, be sure some of it is spent outdoors.

the hand muscles needed to grip a pencil.

• Risk-Taking: Through outdoor play, children are given the opportunity to step outside their comfort zones and try new things. While taking risks won’t always lead to success on the first try,

moments like a first bike ride without training wheels, or the first trip down the big slide in the playground, are critical for building the confidence and resilience needed to pursue a future career, start a business, or handle life’s many challenges.

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• Social Skills: Childhood games played outdoors can help build social skills and teach kids to follow directions. From games as simple as tag, to those with more complicated rules, like “Kick the Can,” “Capture the Flag,” and sports like soccer and basketball, communication, teamwork and other important social skills are developed during outdoor play.

• Problem Solving: Children’s imaginations are often stimulated by the world around them.

Being outside widens their horizons and can encourage kids to tap into their creativity in order to come up with solutions to challenges, such as learning how to build a sandcastle or figuring out how to climb up a jungle gym.

• Reducing Stress: So much outdoor play involves physical activity, thrilling moments and a sense of freedom, all of which can boost endorphins, helping to lower stress levels and reduce anxiety and depression. Interestingly, simply touching dirt when creating mud pies or digging for worms can be beneficial. According to a Bristol University study, certain types of “friendly” bacteria in soil have been found to activate the group of neurons that produce serotonin, which contributes to a feeling of well-being and happiness. So, don’t be afraid to let your kids get a bit dirty out there!

For play ideas, expert advice and other play resources, visit TheGeniusOfPlay.org.

CITIZEN | Chicago Weekend | Week of July 31, 2019

SHE ROCKS OUT TO ALTERNATIVE. SHE BLASTS R&B. #WeCanAllAgreeOnTransit

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ENTERTAINMENT

Carole Simpson, Veteran Broadcast Journalist, Launches W.O.W. Website and Vlog Carole Simpson – best known as the anchor of the weekend editions of ABC’s World News Tonight for more than 15 years – announced recently that she has launched the W.O.W. (Wise Old Woman) website www.carolesimpson.com/something-to-say and vlog, Something.To.Say. Simpson is on a mission to speak up for the often voiceless and ignored women-over-65 set.

Simpson is a three-time Emmy awardwinning television journalist. She was the first African-American woman to anchor a major network newscast and to moderate the premiere town hall presidential debate, which included President George H. W. Bush, Governor Bill Clinton, and Ross Perot in 1992.

After retiring from ABC in 2006, she taught broadcast journalism at Emerson College

in Boston for 13 years. Now, at 78, her third career is heading off in a digital direction as she shares her journalistic expertise and reallife experiences on social media.

“Now that I’m not a working journalist, I am free to express my strong opinions publicly,” Simpson explains. “I want to both talk about the news of the day and the bedeviling issues of our times. Keeping silent is not my style.”

Simpson believes that women over the age of 65 have a unique perspective. Many are working well into their 70s. They continue to be active and vital even while society wants everyone to believe these women have lost their beauty and their brains. Simpson disagrees, “Older women keep all that and gain something more – WISDOM.” For over 40 years as a television journalist,

Simpson had to remain objective and couldn’t offer her opinions on the latest headlines or major issues of the day. Now that she’s retired, she’s free to speak her mind. As she looks around and sees what’s happening in America today, she is eager to discuss the hottest issues, including: l Racism l Sexism l Ageism l Politics l Women’s Rights l And last but not least, our Quirky Pop Culture Visit www.carolesimpson.com and follow Simpson on Facebook (@WOW Wise Old Woman - Carole Simpson) and Twitter (@ WOWCaroleS).

Hanna Lee Communications Takes Books from Concept to Publishing, with Built-In Promotion Throughout Hanna Lee Communications, Inc., an award-winning PR and marketing agency specializing in food, drinks and travel, recently announced Book Incubator Media, a new initiative that identifies authors and compelling subjects to bring new hospitalityfocused books to life.

Promotional efforts are built into every phase of the publishing process to create maximum visibility and ensure its success as a marketingforward, author-centric initiative, according to a press release.

Several books are already in the pipeline by authors from notable bars, restaurants and hotels.

Book Incubator Media is a subsidiary of Hanna Lee Communications, which is now celebrating its 15th anniversary.

It identifies top talent, including best-of-class authors, agents and photographers, to shape book projects and then work with established publishers. Book Incubator Media is an outgrowth of the agency’s “Meet the Inspiring Authors” series of book-signing events to support authors who bring erudition, deep thinking and insights to the global conversation.

“We love books, and over the years we have promoted more than two dozen authors and their work through our ‘Meet the Inspiring Authors’ series to give back to the community,” says Hanna Lee, president & founder, Hanna Lee Communications.

“We are taking this to the next level with our Book Incubator Media. Our goal is to work closely

PRNewsfoto/Hanna Lee Communications, Inc.

with our authors, publishers and collaborators to make each book stand out in an increasingly crowded marketplace.”

PR and Social Media Incorporated Throughout the Process What sets Book Incubator Media apart is PR and social media are incorporated throughout the writing and publication process—before, during and after the book is published—to create maximum visibility in the press

with reinforcing digital buzz via the agency’s Digital Studio Division. This includes writing and distributing press releases, arranging interviews for authors with national media, hosting highprofile book signings and events, securing speaking opportunities for authors at top conferences and driving maximum awareness via social media.

Identifying and Rallying Partners to Leverage Resources In addition, the agency will

identify appropriate partners, such as representatives of relevant trade organizations, tourism bureaus and other brands that can become additional stakeholders in the books’ success.

For more information, follow Hanna Lee Communications, Inc. on Instagram and Twitter at @hannaleepr, “like” them on Facebook at www.facebook. com/HannaLeeCommunications and visit www. hannaleecommunications.com.

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African American author who secured 7-figure, six-book deal across two major publishers debuts this September On the heels of the success of Black Panther and Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse, there has been an uptick of mainstream interest in black/African stories and creators. One such rising star, Rena Barron, snagged two threebook deals with two prestigious publishers that totaled in the seven-figure range.

“Rena Barron has kicked off an adventure that puts the epic in epic fantasy,” writes Stephanie Stein at HarperCollins who acquired Kingdom of Souls in a joint deal with Vicky Leech from HarperCollins UK. “One with a richly textured world, starcrossed romance, and a story that’s fresh and twisty and fun, that makes you care so much about its sky-high stakes by making them deeply personal.”

While getting a contract in the ballpark of a million dollars in the world of publishing isn’t unheard of, it is exceptionally rare for a new African/black creator just entering the scene. HarperCollins who publishes New York Times bestselling author, Angie Thomas of The Hate U Give won the heated auction to acquire Barron’s first series. Houghton Mifflin Harcourt, known for the award-winning The Crossover by Kwame Alexander, will publish her second series.

Barron signed the two deals within three months of each other. Her debut novel, Kingdom Of Souls, a young adult fantasy novel for ages thirteen to eighteen described as Black Panther meets Wonder Woman hits stores September 3 and has sold in several international territories. In this West Africaninspired fantasy, sixteen-year-old Arrah hails from a powerful family of witchdoctors, but she doesn’t have magic of her own. When the terrible Demon King threatens her kingdom, she must trade years of her life in return for the magic she needs to stop him. The book evokes folk magic, voodoo, and builds an intriguing world in which black nations have thrived without a history of oppression.

In Barron’s second series, focused on ages eight to twelve, she returns to her Chicago roots in the contemporary fantasy, Maya And The Rising Dark, which has been called Strange Things meets Percy Jackson. Set on the south side of Chicago, a twelve-year-old girl discovers her father is the keeper of the gateway between our world and The Dark, and when he goes missing she’ll need to unlock her own powers and fight a horde of spooky creatures set on starting a war. Maya And The Rising Dark hits stores on May 5, 2020.

“When I saw Black Panther I cried,” says Barron. “Growing up, I rarely saw stories about people who looked like me that weren’t centered on our suffering or oppression. Those are important stories, but we’re more than that. Our children deserve to see themselves centered in magical tales, go on fantastical adventures, or be the chosen one too.”

CITIZEN | Chicago Weekend | Week of July 31, 2019

CITIZEN On The Move

The Chatham Community Welcomes New Neighbors NHS NHS Chicago hosted a tour and reception featuring “Taste of Chatham at new southside hub at 630 E 87th.

NHS Chicago has created thousands of new homeowners through its Home Buyer Education classes and oneon-one consultations. NHS has prepared thousands of new homeowners through its financial and homebuyer education workshops. NHS certified homeownership consultants provide one-on-one counseling; they listen, advise, and develop a customized plan to help homebuyers become and remain a successful homeowner.

Pictured are Daryl Newell, President Seaway- Self-Help Federal Credit Union, Karen Faust, President NHS, Nick Smith State Rep, and Rob McGhee NHS, Board Chair.

Rob MGhee, NHS Board member

Rob McGhee, Jerry Lumpkins, Darry Newell and State Rep. Nick Smith.

Guest gather to witness the ribbon cuting ceremonies for the new NHS Hub at the former offices of Seaway Bank.

CALUMET HEIGHTS GETS WATER RETENTION TANKS Calumet Heights underground water retention project took 10 years in the making is close to completion in the 8tth Ward. It’s the second ward in the city to have its water tank project to be completed in Sept or October of this year.

8th Ward Ald. Michelle Harris and staff with Calumet Heights residents on site of Water Project.

8th Ward Alderman Michelle Harris inspects the progress of the project.

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10 | CITIZEN | Chicago Weekend | Week of July 31, 2019

CALENDAR

Chicago Public Schools Back-to-School Bashes will take place across the city throughout the month of August. The events provide an opportunity for CPS students to meet with schools, network with staff and classmates, receive school supplies, free immunizations and other community resources.

CPS Announces 2019 Back-to-School Bashes to Celebrate New School Year

Each Back-to-School Bash will provide families with access to immunizations and vaccinations for students, as well as information on Medicaid and other critical programs and resources for families.

Chicago Public Schools (CPS) recently announced a number of Back-to-School Bashes across the city for students and families to reconnect with their school communities and prepare for a safe and productive start to the upcoming school year. The events, which continue throughout the month of August, provide an opportunity for CPS students to meet with schools, network with staff and classmates, receive school supplies, free immunizations and other community resources.

“Back-to-School Bashes bring communities together and help connect students and families with the resources and information they need to start the school year engaged and ready to learn,” said CPS CEO Dr. Janice K. Jackson.

“We look forward to kicking off another safe and successful school year that will continue to build upon the district’s academic progress and provide students with opportunities to grow both inside and outside of the classroom.”

Each Back-to-School Bash will provide families with access to immunizations and vaccinations for students, as well as information on Medicaid and other critical programs and resources for families. The events will also offer a variety of music, food, games and activities for students and their families, including performances from the Jesse White Tumblers. CPS staff and volunteers will be available to help answer questions regarding the upcoming school year, and transportation will be available to and

from events through shuttle services.

For more information on the events and details on other resources to help families prepare for a successful year ahead, families can visit the Back-to-School website at www.cps.edu/b2s. The Back-to-School site includes information on academic programs, community events, frequently asked questions, enrollment procedures, medical forms and health requirements for the upcoming school year.

For any additional questions regarding Backto-School, parents can email b2s@cps.edu or call 773-553-1580.

Chicago Public Schools serves 361,000 students in 644 schools. It is the nation’s thirdlargest school district.

Free Highway Construction Careers Training Program coming to Oak Forest this Fall South Suburban College is preparing for the next session of its free Highway Construction Careers Training Program (HCCTP) this fall at the Oak Forest Center. Orientation and Assessment Testing will be August 20-22nd with the program set to begin on September 16, 2019.

The training consists of an intensive program to teach the skills necessary for acceptance into the highway construction trades and provide opportunities for careers with high wage potential. Career opportunities include cement mason, electrician, pipefitter, carpenter, laborer, and equipment operator. The requirements for admittance include: valid driver’s license, 18 years or older, high school diploma/GED, and completion of assessment testing.

SSC has offered HCCTP since 2014 with 223 of 324 students completing the 12-week

training program. HCCTP was implemented to increase the number of minorities, women, and disadvantaged individuals working on IDOT highway construction projects. Construction will always be needed for new buildings, roads, bridges, and other structures. Some of the more skilled construction careers such as engineer require higher education while others such as cement masonry can be learned as an on-the-job apprentice.

All candidates must have a valid driver’s license with them to attend orientation. For more information, please visit www.ssc.edu/hcctp, call (708) 596-2000, ext. 3219, or email hcctp@ssc.edu.

All orientation and assessment testing will be held at the Oak Forest Center. The Oak Forest Center is located at 16333 South Kilbourn Avenue, Oak Forest, Illinois 60452.

Construction will always be needed for new buildings, roads, bridges, and other structures.

Some of the more skilled construction careers such as engineer require higher education while others can be learned as an on-the-job apprentice.

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CITIZEN | Chicago Weekend | Week of July 31, 2019

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CLASSIFIEDS SERVICE

SERVICE

potential for growth.

• Set the example: “Leaders set the example by which others follow, so be sure to treat your team and customers with respect and gratitude, and always lead from the front,” says Quinn. “Being proud of what you do can be infectious.”

• Build a team committed to excellence: Good leaders attract good talent and assist others in achieving their success. When benchmarks are met, give the team the credit -- you aren’t a leader without them.

• Make and work your plan: When facing challenges, make it your business to pull your team through it. Stay disciplined. If you have a deadline or have made a promise, always deliver on it.

“Don’t let your activity dictate your priorities; Your priorities need to dictate your activity,” says Quinn.

• Be valued: Consider specifically seeking out positions with employers who value the leadership, discipline and service record of military veterans, veterans with disabilities, National Guard members, and Reservists, and then take advantage of any resources offered by the company. The existence of a military affairs program, such as the one established by Wells Fargo in 2012, is a good sign that a given employer is committed to hiring and retaining veteran team members. In the case of Wells Fargo, the company offers such resources as apprenticeships, internships, transition services and leadership training in an effort to help veterans translate existing skills to a new position and grow professionally. Wells Fargo also offers employee resource groups, financial education, military leave benefits and other programming designed to help veterans be successful.

More information about making the transition from the military to the corporate world is available at wellsfargojobs.com/military.

By honing in on the skills acquired during military service and seeking out tailored professional growth opportunities, those in the veteran community can maximize their leadership potential and thrive in the corporate world. __________________________________

Darrell Garth

President /Publisher

Janice Garth

Sales Manager General Manager

Editorial

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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!

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CHICAGO WEEKEND

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SUBURBAN TIMES WEEKLY

MISCELLANEOUS FOR SALE Blueberries - Certified Organic - Seasonal U-Pick and Pre-Picked, Year-round frozen Clean fields, easy picking, Northwest Indiana, easy access off 80/90. Check us out at www.BlueberryRanch.com __________________________________ LEGAL SERVICES NEED LEGAL HELP? Get a FREE referral to an attorney! Call the Illinois State Bar Association Illinois Lawyer Finder The advice you need 877-270-3855 or https://www.isba.org/public/ illinoislawyerfinder __________________________________ SPORTING GOODS BADGER MILITARY COLLECTIBLE & MILITARY FIREARMS SHOW: August 2&3, Waukesha Expo Forum, 1000 Northview Rd., Waukesha, WI. Fri 3pm8pm, Sat 9am-4pm. $8. 608-752-6677 www.bobandrocco.com __________________________________

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CHURCH ANNOUNCEMENT 40 YEARS OF KINGDOM IMPACT! Evening Star M.B. Church, 2050 W. 59th St., Chicago, IL, Celebrates their Pastor, Bishop Vesta L. Dixon, 40th Anniversary, Sunday, August 11, 11:00 AM, Morning Worship - Elder Issac Blalock Sr., Speaker, Fellowship & Lunch after Morning Worship.

At 3:30 PM, Evening Worship - Bishop Troy Garner, Speaker, Universal Baptist Church, Harvey, IL. Anniversary climax on Sunday, August 18, 11:00 AM, Morning Worship, Bishop Vesta L. Dixon, Speaker.

COME CELEBRATE WITH US! __________________________________

BUSINESS

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How to Transfer Your Military Skills to the Corporate World (StatePoint) A military background brings with it an ability to collaborate, problemsolve and thrive under pressure, making veterans well-positioned to take on leadership roles in the corporate world.

Having worked in the banking industry for more than 25 years and in his 30th year with the U.S. Army, Jerry Quinn is an example of someone who has maximized his military leadership skills in the corporate world. As senior vice president, and head of Enterprise Military Talent External Recruiting at Wells Fargo, Quinn also serves as chairman of the Association of Military Banks of America.

To help make your transition from military service go smoothly, Quinn is offering the following tips and insights: • Know yourself: “Knowing yourself is a key leadership principle,” says Quinn. “By understanding what your values, capabilities, strengths and weaknesses are, you can step into a leadership role that will allow you and your team to thrive.”

• Know your organization: Understand the ins and outs of the organization you work for or want to work for, including its vision, mission and objectives, as well as the company’s current capabilities and

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