Chicago Weekend Citizen 11-10-2021

Y O U R S O U R C E F O R C O R O N AV I R U S N E W S

Citizen Week of Nov. 10, 2021

| Vol. 52 | No. 46 | www.citizennewspapergroup.com

CHICAGO WEEKEND

Financial Impacts of COVID-19 Undermine Women’s Retirement Security Page 6

Isaac Palmer, Jr., is president and co-founder of Minority Access to Comprehensive and Coordinated Healthcare (MATCCH) Foundation. Photos provided by James Mendez

FASHION: Aoki Lee Simmons Stars In Yumi Katsura Fall 2022 Bridal Collection Page 5

THE MATCCH FOUNDATION CREATES A COMMUNITY-BASED HEALTHCARE MODEL Last year after attending a George Floyd protest, Isaac Palmer, Jr., along with a friend, were inspired to make a change in the Black community. They knew they couldn’t change the actions of the police, they couldn’t reach the Mayor, but they did know healthcare. PAGE 2

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2 | CITIZEN | Chicago Weekend | Week of Nov. 10, 2021

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The MATCCH Foundation Creates a Community-Based Healthcare Model Continued from page 1

BY TIA CAROL JONES

Last year after attending a George Floyd protest, Isaac Palmer, Jr., along with a friend, were inspired to make a change in the Black community. They knew they couldn’t change the actions of the police, they couldn’t reach the Mayor, but they did know healthcare.

Palmer and his friend knew if they could improve healthcare in the community, they could improve the economics of the community. If they could improve the health of Black men, it would bolster the community.

Palmer has 20 years of experience in healthcare, he has worked in healthcare institutions in Illinois, Florida and Louisiana. From those experiences, he realized the hospitals are not at the forefront of changing community health outcomes.

“Most of the healthcare players are profit oriented, business oriented and charging clips for service,” said Palmer, who recently served as CEO of Adventist Hospital in Bolingbrook.

Palmer knew that there had to be a voice that speaking for the entire population and managing healthcare outcomes. Palmer and Dr. Michael McGee founded the Minority Access to Comprehensive and Coordinated Healthcare (MATCCH) Foundation.

The MATCCH Foundation seeks to provide a community-owned entity that reports to the community, without a profit motive. Partners includes the Church of God in Christ, the Premier Urgent Care and Occupational Health Center, the Cook County Physicians Association, an association of all Black physicians in Cook County.

A mutual friend of Palmer’s suggested he get connected to McGee, the co-owner of Premier, the only Black-owned Urgent Care facility on Chicago’s South Side.

McGee understood the model and started to add the clinical components, as well as the Urban Violence Prevention component. McGee does seminars in the community, teaching about Urban Violence Prevention.

The model includes free mental health screenings, community-based prevention programs and integrated technology driven resources.

“Studies show Blacks do not get the same treatment options as our white counterparts, that is regardless of your economic background, as well. We just don’t get the same pharmaceutical options, we don’t get the same treatment

Dr. Michael McGee, is the owner of Urgent Care & Occupational Health Physician and co-founder of Minority Access to Comprehensive and Coordinated Healthcare (MATCCH) Foundation. Photos provided by James Mendez

options, we don’t get the same specialist options. What our model does is it puts a concierge nurse that overlays on top of your care,” Palmer said.

Patients would not have to change their doctor. The concierge nurse would have access to a patient’s medical records and will call the patients or the doctor and advocate on someone’s behalf to get the best treatment. The concierge nurse also will understand the patient’s living arrangement – access to transportation, child care, access to nutritional foods – and tap social services to advocate for the patient.

The MATCCH Foundation has partnered with the Health Care Council of Illinois, which represents more than 300 Licensed Skilled Nursing facilities in the state. The goal of the partnership is to help patients to understand their long-term care options. It opens up options that are not previously available to the Black community on a regular basis.

Palmer acknowledged there are hospitals and health care institutions on the South side that have formed a collaboration and have put forth a good faith effort. But the MATCCH Foundation’s model is different.

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“COVID-19 brought into stark reality the systemic health inequities in the Black community that only grew worse in the pandemic. MATCCH’s mission is to attack the sources of these inequities by empowering community health organizations and support services to close the widening gap in healthcare in Chicago’s least served neighborhoods,” McGee said. “We want going to the doctor to become as routine as going to the barber for a haircut. We want to build that level of confidence, comfort and trust in the healthcare system with our patients, especially our Black men, as they have in the barber’s chair.

MATCCH’s integrated care model is designed so that when our patients get in contact with the concierge nurse, they can confidently ask questions and get the answers they need and ultimately be pointed in the right direction of the best care plan.”

MATCCH is building the governance structure, building partners, which Palmer and McGee will present to the State of Illinois for healthcare transformation dollars. The hope is the model will be rolled out by Spring of 2022.

For more information, visit www. matcchfoundation.org.

CITIZEN | Chicago Weekend | Week of Nov. 10, 2021

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NEWS

Comcast Increases Xfinity Internet Speeds in the Chicago Region Several million households to benefit from faster speeds to power their increasingly connected homes Comcast announced today that it has increased the speeds of its most popular Xfinity Internet tiers, providing an extra boost for several million customers across its Greater Chicago Region, which spans Central and Northern Illinois, Northwest Indiana and Southwest Michigan.

The following upgrades have gone live automatically at no additional cost: • Performance Starter upload speeds doubled to 50/10 Megabits per second (Mbps); • Performance upload speeds doubled to 100/10 Mbps; • Blast speeds increased from 200/10 Mbps to 300/10 Mbps; • Extreme speeds increased from 400/20 Mbps to 600/20 Mbps.

• Extreme Pro speeds increased from 800/20 Mbps to 900/20 Mbps; and • Gigabit Pro speeds increased from 2/2 Gigabits per second (Gbps) to 3/3 Gbps symmetrical nationwide. Gigabit Pro uses enterprise-grade, fiber-based ethernet technology to make it possible for Xfinity Internet customers to receive symmetrical multi-gigabit speeds so you can stream or game in 4K in multiple rooms in your home.

“Comcast’s more than 68,000 miles of fiber-dense network lines and other

infrastructure serve communities throughout the region, and our nearly two million WiFi hotspots in the region allow residents to connect on the go,” said John Crowley, Comcast’s Greater Chicago Region Senior Vice President.

“Comcast’s $1.4 billion investment in its regional network over the last three years and its ongoing investments make it possible for the company to deliver some of the fastest Internet speeds on the market, the most advanced telecommunications services for homes and business and a great experience to our customers.”

Comcast’s Xfinity Internet service is delivered using the company’s existing network architecture and the connections that are already in most customers’ homes. Its network offers residential download speeds faster than a Gig over its current infrastructure already, making the company the largest provider of Gigabit speeds in the region and the country.

Comcast recently tested the world’s first 10G connection from network to modem at the biggest annual 10G event.

This demonstration was a milestone in a company project that aims to ultimately produce 10 Gbps residential speeds and beyond.

U. S. HOUSE SPEAKER PELOSI and U. S. CONGRESSMAN DANNY DAVIS CELEBRATES DIWALI IN WASHINGTON D.C. “Our customers build their digital lives on the foundation of our Internet service, so we continue to push the technological envelope to anticipate their future needs,” said Tony Werner, Comcast’s President of Technology, Product, Xperience. “The great strength of our network technology is that we will have the ability to scale these next-generation speeds to tens of millions of homes in the future without digging up yards or starting massive construction projects.

This technology provides a path to meeting the needs of the future and making multi-gigabit symmetrical speeds a reality for everyone, not just a select few.”

Over the last decade, Comcast has invested nearly $30 billion to build an expansive, fiber-dense network comprising of 191,000 route miles in its service footprint nationally. The network carries an immense amount of traffic and performed extraordinarily well during the pandemic. The company has doubled its network capacity every 2.5 years to stay well ahead of demand.

College-Bound Students Can Now Apply to All Illinois Public Universities Using the Common App SPRINGFIELD – Governor JB Pritzker and the Illinois Board of Higher Education (IBHE), in partnership with the Illinois General Assembly, are utilizing $1 million in funding to add all of the state’s public universities onto the Common App platform. First-year students applying to college will now be able to apply to any of Illinois’ 12 public universities, plus dozens of the state’s private institutions, with only one form.

“Expanding access to educational opportunities for everyone has always been a top goal of my administration. We want to make it easier for everyone, especially people of color, low-income students, and adult learners, to find a place at Illinois’ institutions

of higher learning,” said Governor JB Pritzker. “This $1 million investment will not only make it easier for Illinois students to apply to multiple of the state’s worldclass universities but will also encourage students from out of state and across the globe to take the next step in their educational journey right here in Illinois.”

For students and families concerned about the cost of applying for college, waivers are available for low-income Common App applicants.

In 2019-2020, more than 470,000 Common App applicants across the nation were granted a fee waiver. Some colleges and universities either have no application fees or will waive fees if needed.

Three public universities, the University of Illinois

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Chicago, Northern Illinois University, and Chicago State University, were previously available on the Common App. The $1 million investment allowed the remaining public universities to join the program. The last outstanding university, Northeastern Illinois University, will be implemented later this fall.

“Having all of the public universities on the Common App will make it easier for students to apply,” said Ginger Ostro, executive director, IBHE. “We see this as a tool for more students to explore the opportunities at all Illinois colleges and universities and remain in Illinois for their post-secondary education.”

The Common App website (www.commonapp.org) has several resources for students

and families who want to know more about the application process, such as a first-year application guide, resources called “What Is Common App?” and “How the First Year Common App Works,” YouTube videos, and the list of institutions that use the application.

Additionally, the Illinois Student Assistance Commission (ISAC) and its school and community partners offer free support throughout Illinois for students who need help completing their college and financial aid applications. The ISACorps, a statewide group of near peer mentors trained to assist students and families with college planning and financial aid, offer free workshops as well as one-on-one assistance.

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Congressional and

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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BUSINESS

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

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

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

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

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

The prestigious trailblazers active on

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Resources will also be reinvested

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

CITIZEN | Chicago Weekend | Week of Nov. 10, 2021

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FASHION

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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design houses, whose wedding dresses are considered modern masterpieces.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Plus, the winning designer will get a

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

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

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

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

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

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

and review the rules of the contest.

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

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

6 | CITIZEN | Chicago Weekend | Week of Nov. 10, 2021

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Suspicious Dumping to Waterways or Sewers NEWS

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

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

Illegal or Suspicious Dumping to Waterways or Sewers

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

Odors

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

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

Wastewater treatment doesn’t improve retirement security.

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

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

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

We want to hear from you.

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

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

at mwrd.org and via our ios app.

mwrd.org

Metropolitan Water

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CITIZEN | Chicago Weekend | Week of Nov. 10, 2021

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7

NEWS

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

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

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

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

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

PRNewsFoto/Transamerica Center for Retirement Studies

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

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

Emergency savings are low.

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

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

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

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

More than three in four are

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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8 | CITIZEN | Chicago Weekend | Week of Nov. 10, 2021

CITIZEN On The Move

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

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

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

CITIZEN | Chicago Weekend | Week of Nov. 10, 2021

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9

ENTERTAINMENT

“The Next ‘50s & ‘60s Pop, Soul And Doo-Wop Star” Seeks Talent

Doctor Troller x Crocs League

NFT for Dummies by Crocs League founder Doctor Troller LONDON PRNewswire -- There has been an explosion in the sales of NFTs in the past year. One digital artist called Beeple sold his NFT artwork called Opus for $69 million at Christies. Another artist called Pak created a collection of NFT Cubes which sold out at Sothebys for $17m, and last week UK based artist Doctor Troller’s first drop of Crocs League NFTs netted over $500,000 in a couple of hours.

But what exactly is an NFT? OK, let’s start with the basics. NFT stands for non-fungible token.

OK, I’m sure you get the token bit, but non-fungible?

Non-fungible means it’s unique, one of a kind, and cannot be replaced with something else.

You’ve heard of Bitcoin, right?

Well Bitcoin is fungible. One Bitcoin is exactly the same as another, you could trade any Bitcoin for another, they won’t be any different.

An NFT however, is a one-of-a-kind trading card. If you swap or sell it for another NFT you will have something completely different.

So how exactly do NFTs work?

Most NFTs are part of the Ethereum (ETH) blockchain. Most purchases and trades of NFTs are done in ETH. Ethereum is a cryptocurrency, like Bitcoin, but the ETH blockchain also supports these NFTs, and stores extra information which is why most NFT transactions are done in Etherium.

So what is worth buying in NFTs? NFTs can be pretty much anything collectable that can be digitized. It could be music, videos, the world’s first Tweet (it sold for $2.9m), but a lot of the current NFT excitement is around digital art.

The reason for this excitement is that NFTs

are designed to give you something that can’t be copied: ownership of the artwork. To explain this in terms of physical art collecting, anyone can buy a Van Gogh print, but only one person can own the original. And with blockchain technology, you can easily see that the artwork is the genuine version and not a fake.

OK, how does that work?

All transactions of the artwork are recorded and stored on the blockchain, this gives the NFT artwork, what art dealers call “provenance”, you can see exactly who has owned the artwork right the way back to the original minting by the artist.

Right, I’m interested, but which NFTs are worth collecting?

Well, that’s the $69m question, literally.

So rarity of NFTs is important. If an artist releases an edition of a million NFTs they’re not exactly rare, and so therefore this should be reflected in the price.

Have a look on community sites to see what prices these NFTs are going for, do your research. Discord is a good site to check on prices and sales for NFTs. Look and see what prices those NFTs have sold for today, not last week.

This is a fast moving market, fortunes can be made quickly…and lost quickly. You’ve got to know the right time to get in, and get out.

What about security, I’ve heard about people being robbed online?

It’s really important to have strong security. Have a good secure wallet, something like Metamask, but also it’s good to double down with a physical wallet as well, so that if your computer is hacked you’re not going to lose everything when you’re asleep.

For more information, visit www. crocsleague.com.

PITTSBURGH PRNewswire -- Starting today, aspiring Acapella and vocal group harmony singers are invited to audition for The Next ‘50s & ‘60s Pop, Soul and Doo-Wop Star worldwide talent search. The effort will culminate with a national PBS special in 2022 commemorating the classic 1950s and 1960s pop, soul and doo-wop eras in American musical history.

The Next ‘50s & ‘60s Pop, Soul and Doo-Wop Star talent search is being conducted by famed PBS My Music series producer TJ Lubinsky of TJL Productions.

Since 1993, his dozens of concert and retrospective specials have been enjoyed by tens of millions of viewers and have helped raise more than $2 billion for public television. “If you’ve ever wanted to be an “oldies” pop, soul or doo-wop star,” Lubinsky says, “this is your big chance to be seen nationwide.”

To preserve the legendary music of yesteryear, Lubinsky’s The Next ‘50s & ‘60s Pop, Soul and Doo-Wop Star talent search seeks to discover, record and celebrate singers who can accurately channel the iconic artists of the 1950s and 1960s. “We’re looking for the unknown voices of today who can recreate the vocal phrasing, musical arrangements and spirited choreography of the

originals,” says Lubinsky.

While many of the artists who introduced the favorite hit songs of the past are no longer with us, Lubinsky enthusiastically reflects that this uniquely American form of music still has a huge fan base globally.

“At every one of our shows,” he says, “the audience mouths the words as they are brought back to the first time they heard the music. But the 50s and 60s oldies genre in particular is in danger of dying unless a new generation is found to bring the music forward. I’m going to make sure that happens!”

As college acapella competitions, stage shows and YouTube videos prove, there are enormously talented young individuals and groups who are keeping the 1950s and 1960s oldies tradition alive.

“We’re going to find them,” Lubinsky said. “And, share them with the world.”

How to Audition Guidelines for groups and individuals who wish to be considered for auditions are on the The Next Doo-Wop Star

website: www.doowopstar.com One audition may be submitted per entity. Deadline for submissions is December 24, 2021.

TJ Lubinsky is the creator of the most successful music fund-raising programming in the history of Public Broadcasting System. ‘’Very few people can say they have a calling in life.

I’m lucky to have found one,’’ he told The New York Times.

Lubinsky’s long-running My Music fundraising series on public television features historic musical reunions, archival specials and interviews including hundreds of performers. His programs span doo-wop to disco, folk to funk, Motown to big band and country-pop to rock and roll. Highlights include ‘60s Pop, Rock & Soul (hosted

by Peter Noone), The British Beat (hosted by Petula Clark), Burt Bacharach’s Best, Aretha Franklin’s Soul Rewind, John Sebastian’s Folk Rewind, Close To You: Remembering The Carpenters and many more.

Lubinsky grew up with the sounds of R & B, oldies, gospel and jazz that inspired his deep knowledge and passion for music. He is the third generation of his family in the music business and is also the Friday night disc-jockey on his mixcloud.com/tjlradio show which streams online worldwide.

New Documentary Ties Poisonous Diets To Racial Inequality LOS ANGELES PRNewswire -- A groundbreaking new documentary, They’re Trying to Kill Us, features notable leaders and influencers from the fields of Hip Hop, medicine, sports, entertainment, policy, and politics weighing in on the singular most deadly threat to American society. And it’s not police brutality or firearms.

Co-directors John Lewis and Keegan Kuhn have teamed up to tell the untold story of the intersections of diet, disease, poverty, institutional racism, food deserts, government corruption and collusion with Big Food and the pharmaceutical industry. The film follows John from his upbringing in Ferguson as he seeks answers from experts as to why Americans of Color are dying from chronic diseases at often twice the rate of white Americans. Along the way he speaks with Hip Hop artists and celebrities who share their own personal experiences with how poor diets have led to a staggeringly high rate of deaths.

They’re Trying To Kill Us documentary spotlights the single biggest threat to Americans of Color.

The film features interviews with Hip Hop artists, celebrities and medical professionals

www.citizennewspapergroup.com

such as Ne-Yo, Mya, Dame Dash and Cedric The Entertainer. The film also features exclusive interviews with NBA All-Star Chris Paul and multiple Grammy Award Winner Billie Eilish, who are both Executive Producers on the film.

The documentary is set to be released at 11 a.m. EST Thursday, Nov. 11, at www.theyretryingtokillus.com. It costs $20 to download.

Seeking a more efficient and equitable way to release the movie, the filmmakers are launching a “Cooperative Release” of the film, giving participants in the documentary and select influencers their own unique URL to the film’s purchase page and splitting the profits 50/50 for the first week of release. On the filmmakers’ side, they are giving their first $1,000,000 raised directly to charity.

The aim of the documentary is to bring to light an important untold story at a point where humanity is hungry for social justice. Among the vital questions this film asks are: Why are rates of chronic disease skyrocketing in communities of color; What is behind the distrust of the medical profession in communities of color; and How can society come together to rectify the issue.

10 | CITIZEN | Chicago Weekend | Week of Nov. 10, 2021

CITIZEN | Chicago Weekend | Week of Nov. 10, 2021

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LEGAL NOTICE PUBLIC NOTICE STATE OF ILLINOIS, CIRCUIT COURT OF COOK COUNTY PUBLICATION NOTICE OF COURT DATE FOR REQUEST AFOR NAME CHANGE (MINOR CHILDREN) REQUEST OF: STEPHAINE L. JACKOSN on behalf of: NIA RICHARDSON to change names of minor children- NIA RICHARDSON case number: 2021CONC001184, Judge: Calendar, 8.

Publication is not necessary if both parents, confirmed on the birth certificate, agree to the name change or have been given notice. There will be a court date on the Request for Name Change (Minor Children) for these children: 1. Current Name of Minor Child: NIA LYNN RICHARDSON Proposed New Name of Minor Child: NIA LYNN JACKSON. 2. Court Date Infomation: a. Date: November 15, 2021 Time: 9:00 a.m. b. Address: 50 W. Washington, City of : Chicago and County: of Cook, Courtroom: 1704. ________________________________

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF COOK COUNTY, ILLINOIS COUNTY DEPARTMENT, DOMESTIC RELATIONS DIVISION IN THE MATTER OF THE PETITION OF: ALEXANDER BARKSDALE JR. FOR CHANGE OF NAME TO: ALEXANDER BARKSDALE LOVE Case No.: 2021 CONC 001384 Calendar 10 NOTICE OF FILING PETITION FOR NAME CHANGE NOTICE IS HEREBY given to you, the public, that on September 15, 2021, I have filed a Petition for Change of Name in the Circuit Court of Cook County to change my present nameof Alexander Barksdale Jr. to the name of Alexander Barksdale Love.

The Court date will be held on December 20, 2021 at 9:30 a.m via Zoom video or teleconference. The Zoom video call information is: Court time: 9:30 a.m Dial-in-number: 312-626-6799 Meeting ID 963 3970 0908 Password: 395890 DATE: 10/21/2021 Signature of Petitioner, ALEXANDER BARKSDALE JR. Williams Law Office, 41781 PO Box 208501 Chicago, Illinois 60620 DocuSign Envelope ID: D9E380FD-081C4030-AD9F-2F14B0FAEECD _____________________________________

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

6 Myths About Pet Allergies

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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12 | CITIZEN | Chicago Weekend | Week of Nov. 10, 2021

GETTING HUNDREDS OF SENIORS VACCINATED DOESN’T TAKE A VILLAGE. IT TAKES A GLORIA.

Gloria helped answer vaccination-related questions for seniors living at the Patrick Sullivan Seniors Building.

If you need someone to talk to about the COVID-19 vaccine, we are here for you.

Call 312-746-4835 Chicago.gov/SeniorVax

Chicago Department of Public Health