Chicago Weekend Citizen 11-14-18

Citizen

Bobbi Wilsyn Receives Black Excellence Award From African American Arts Alliance of Chicago — Page 3 Week of Nov. 14, 2018

| Vol. 49 | No. 46 | www.thechicagocitizen.com

CHICAGO WEEKEND

A music video was recently released by The Chicago Children’s Theatre in collaboration with the Greater Chicago Food Depository to create a Hunger Awareness in Chicago. Photo Credit: Provided by The Chicago Children’s Theatre

CHICAGO CHILDREN’S THEATRE RELEASES MUSIC VIDEO TO SPOTLIGHT HUNGER IN CHICAGO

The Chicago Children’s Theatre and the Greater Chicago Food Depository recently collaborated to create a Hunger Awareness music video.

The music video doubles as a public service announcement and shows Chicago kids sorting food, having fun, dancing, and singing at the Greater Chicago Food Depository’s main donation and sorting facility on Chicago’s Southwest side. PAGE 2

BUSINESS

FASHION

ENTERTAINMENT

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Social media … you can’t get away from it, so do it the right way

Fashion Designer Mieka Joi Celebrates Rich Girl Candy Clothing Five Year Anniversary Fusing EDM and Hip Hop Culture |

Bicentennial reveals starstudded lineup for state’s 200th birthday party |

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NEWS briefly EDUCATION

CPS STUDENTS COOK UP CHANGE Students from Chicago Public High Schools are Cooking up Change today at Skyline Lofts at the Bridgeport Art Center located on 1200 W. 35th Street. The event is part of Healthy Schools Campaign’s annual healthy cooking contest and fundraiser. Cooking up Change is a culinary competition founded by Healthy Schools Campaign that challenges student chefs to create healthy and delicious school meals that their peers will enjoy, while meeting strict nutritional standards and a tight budget, about $1.40 per meal —constraints schools deal with every day. The winning team’s dishes will be served at Chicago Public Schools next semester. The students will also win scholarships to a culinary school.

HEALTH

WHERE WILL THE NEXT BIG IDEA IN HEALTHCARE COME FROM? JOHNSON & JOHNSON IS COUNTING ON NURSES Johnson & Johnson (NYSE: JNJ) recently launched a new campaign that does more than just recognize nurses as critical partners on the front lines of health care – it empowers them as innovators. Through the “Nurses Innovate QuickFire Challenge,” Johnson & Johnson is inviting the more than 3.2 million nurses1 in the United States to submit ideas for new devices, health technologies, protocols or treatment approaches.

The company has committed up to $100,000 in grants and access to mentoring and coaching via Johnson & Johnson Innovation, JLABS. To learn more about Johnson & Johnson’s 120 years of commitment to nursing and how to apply for the Johnson & Johnson Nurses Innovate QuickFire Challenge, visit nursing.jnj. com/home.

LAW & POLITICS

ABA RELEASES HOLOCAUST-ERA BOOK ON NAZI PURGE OF JEWISH LAWYERS IN BERLIN The American Bar Association has released a historical, rule-of-law book that details how one government – Nazi Germany – systematically undermined fair and just law through humiliation, degradation and legislation leading to expulsion of Jewish lawyers and jurists from the legal profession.

As the rule of law comes under attack today in both developed and Third World countries, “Lawyers Without Rights: The Fate of Jewish Lawyers in Berlin after 1933” tragically details what can happen when the just rule of law disappears — and is replaced by an arbitrary rule by law that sweeps aside the rights and dignity of selected populations. First published in German two decades ago and updated in 2007, the book includes three significant additions — forewords from Justice Stephen G. Breyer of the U.S. Supreme Court; Benjamin B. Ferencz, at 99 years old the sole-surviving prosecutor from the Nuremberg trials; and Ronald D. Abramson, a Jewish lawyer and philanthropist whose family foundation, the Anne and Ronald Abramson Family Foundation, provided underwriting for this book.

The price of the book is $39.95 and can be purchased by calling 800-285-2221 or by visiting shopaba.

Chicago Children’s Theatre Releases Music Video To Spotlight Hunger In Chicago Continued from page 1

BY KATHERINE NEWMAN

The Chicago Children’s Theatre and the Greater Chicago Food Depository recently collaborated to create a Hunger Awareness music video. The music video doubles as a public service announcement and shows Chicago kids sorting food, having fun, dancing, and singing at the Greater Chicago Food Depository’s main donation and sorting facility on Chicago’s Southwest side.

The music video features an original song, Serving Up Love, that was created

by Motown legend Lamont Dozier and Paris Ray Dozier for one of the Chicago Children’s Theatre’s popular family musicals, Last Stop on Market Street. There are two versions of the Serving Up Love video, one is 30 seconds long and one is 60 seconds long. Both are being offered to Chicago-area broadcast and online media for public service airplay.

“Our goal is to be able to activate the arts as a way to create real change by addressing critical community needs. That’s

where the discussion to create the music video started. We are newly located at 100 S. Racine Ave. which is a literal crossroads between the vibrant Loop and the areas of need on the south and west sides of the city,” said Matt Merrill, director of development for the Chicago Children’s Theatre.

The Chicago Children’s Theatre realized that there are critical community needs which are not being met in the neighborhoods that sit to the west and the south of their new West Loop location, known as The Station. They decided to be intentional about bringing awareness to these needs, according to Merrill.

“We just wanted to build awareness about The Greater Chicago Food Depository’s services and also point out to our audience that you can volunteer there as a family. That’s the two-fold message in the music video, it’s about activism and also awareness,” said Merrill.

The final scene in Last Stop on Market Street shows the main characters, a grandmother and her grandson, volunteering at a community food bank. The

grandmother brought her grandson to the food bank to teach him an important life lesson about supporting those experiencing hunger and food insecurity. The scene featured the Greater Chicago Food Depository’s logo to subtly boost visibility for Chicago’s food bank and throughout the run of the show, The Station was a dropoff location for donations to the Greater Chicago Food Depository.

“We thought about the Greater Chicago Food Depository because they worked with us on our world premiere of Last Stop on Market Street,” said Merrill. “We wanted to continue utilizing that partnership and do a public service announcement that would raise awareness about hunger in our city and also about volunteer opportunities for the entire family.”

Development and production of the videos were supported by a $5,000 Acting Up award from The Chicago Community Trust. The Serving Up Love video is one of 37 projects that received an Acting Up Award from the Trust to benefit neighborhoods and the public good, according to a press release announcing the music video.

North Side Non-Profit Expands To New South Side Location

BY KATHERINE NEWMAN

The Albany Park Community Center (APCC) recently announced that it will soon open the new APCC-South service center at 4455 S. King Dr. in the Bronzeville neighborhood. The new location will provide several different services to the community, including counseling services, community access to a newly designed computer lab, and job training programs.

The APCC is a nonprofit, community-based organization that is headquartered in the Albany Park neighborhood on Chicago’s North Side. APCC was incorporated on Sept. 24, 1975, and since then has been working to provide education and support for members by offering an array of programs and services for individuals, families, groups, and businesses, according to a press release announcing the expansion.

“We were incorporated in 1975 to provide counseling services and what began as an organization focused on counseling services has grown over the past 40 years to include early education and school-age programs and adult education, employment, and training programs. Our counseling department has grown to include counseling, mentoring, and family support services and we also have a robust business development program,” said Monica Woodson, CEO of the APCC. Services at the new APCC-South facility are set to kick off mid-November, according to Woodson.

“We have discovered through our data gathering that we have a significant number of clients who are coming from dif-

The Albany Park Community Center (APCC) will soon be operating out of a second location in the Bronzeville neighborhood. Photo Credit: Provided by the Albany Park Community Center

ferent parts of the south side to access our services,” said Woodson. “We recognized that making the trek from south to north is not always an easy feat in this city.”

The need to create greater accessibility for their south side clients mixed with the need for more space to operate their growing programs is what motivated the APCC to establish the new location in Bronzeville.

“Quite frankly, we wanted to be able to meet the needs of our clients but we also needed additional space,” said Woodson. “We are very fortunate that a lot of our programs are growing and we really had outgrown the space at our Kimball location.”

Woodson said she even resorted to giving up her office to provide more space for the growing counseling services that the APCC provides.

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Step one of successfully operating out of the new APCC-South facility will be to host a series of community listening sessions with established neighborhood non-profits, schools, and leaders to determine what kind of partnerships can be forged, how the APCC can fit into the mix, and how they can best support south side residents.

“One of our primary goals is to establish partnerships with the organizations that are already doing great work in the community and work with them to identify any unmet needs and if there is something there that aligns with our mission and vision we want to be able to help address those unmet needs,” said Woodson.

For more information, visit www. apccchgo.org. You can find the APCC on Facebook or follow them on Twitter @ apccchgo.

CITIZEN | Chicago Weekend | Week of Nov. 14, 2018

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NEWS Wilsyn Receives Black Excellence Award From AAAA Bobbi Wilsyn, long-time Columbia College Chicago faculty member and coordinator of the Vocal Studies program, received a 2018 Black Excellence Award from the African American Arts Alliance of Chicago (AAAA) for Outstanding Achievement in Jazz Music. Wilsyn was honored at the AAAA’s annual awards event held at the Black Ensemble Theater Cultural Center on Oct. 29.

“It was an honor to have been nominated for the 18th annual African American Arts Alliance Black Excellence Award in Jazz, but to have been the recipient is amazing,” said Wilsyn. “I was also pleased to see many of our voice students, past and present, including Izaiah Harris (Musical Theatre major) who received the award in the category for Best Actor.”

Wilsyn is an international performing artist who has been an integral member of Columbia for nearly four decades, serving in different capacities including as adjunct instructor, senior lecturer, professor of instruction, and coordinator of the Voice and Choral Ensemble. She teaches a range of techniques in contemporary singing and vocal improvisation, as well as Pop, R&B, Jazz, Blues, and Gospel.

“Bobbi Wilsyn is one of Chicago’s most accomplished jazz singers. Her voice is phenomenal, her presence on stage is breathtaking, and I can think of no other jazz singer that comes close to matching her style and charisma,” said Jackie Taylor, president of the African American Arts Alliance’s board. “She is one of a kind and this Black Excellence Award is long overdue.”

Interim Dean of the School of Fine and Performing Arts Rosita M. Sands credits Wilsyn for her significant contributions to the Music Department’s curriculum and distinctive focus on the performance of contemporary, urban, and popular music.

“Bobbi is not only an extraordinary musician, but an incredible teacher and mentor to our students,” said Sands. “She models what it takes to sustain a long, active performance

Bobbi Wilsyn, long-time Columbia College Chicago faculty member and coordinator of the Vocal Studies program, received a 2018 Black Excellence Award from the African American Arts Alliance of Chicago (AAAA) for Outstanding Achievement in Jazz Music. Photo courtesy: Bobbi Wilsyn

career, one filled with consistently high-caliber performances. We are all tremendously proud of Bobbi for receiving this well-deserved honor!”

Wilsyn has performed at prestigious venues across the globe and in the Chicagoland area, including the Symphony Center, Ravinia, Harris Theatre, Auditorium Theatre, and Millennium Park. She has performed with Jazz greats such as Ramsey Lewis, Corky Siegel, Joe Levano, Art Hoyle, Ari Brown, and the late Jazz legends Eldee Young, Von Freeman, James Moody, Buddy DeFranco, Johnny Griffin, Billy

Taylor, and Johnny Frigo.

Wilsyn founded the all-female Jazz combo, SHE, featuring some top women Jazz instrumentalists and performs with Chicago’s Eleven Jazz Divas. As a masterclass facilitator, Wilsyn has presented workshops for the Jazz Institute’s Straight-Ahead Jazz Camp and internationally in Santa Arissi, Sardenia, Conservatorio di Bari, and the Conservatorio di Pescara. She was featured with the Chicago Jazz Ensemble and has presented with Orbert Davis’ Chicago Jazz Philharmonic for the performances

of “Through Ella’s Eyes.” Wilsyn’s album It’s About Time features some of her own compositions and her one-woman shows are tributes to famous ladies of jazz as well as musical theater cabaret.

The Black Excellence Awards are given to outstanding artists in the fields of film, dance, music, literature, visual arts, and theater.

Each year, the Black Excellence Committee is responsible for viewing artists in a particular field for 10 months after which the most outstanding individual in each field is given the award.

Humanity United and NoVo Foundation Announce Support for Grassroots Organizations to Address Key Gaps in Local Communities’ Responses to Human Trafficking The Partnership for Freedom recently announced recipients of new grants to address labor and sexual exploitation at the local level by bolstering survivor leadership and strengthening grassroots organizing in Atlanta, Chicago, and Minneapolis.

The four grant recipients are: Survivor Alliance, National Economic and Social Rights Initiative, Raise the Floor Alliance, and Centro de Trabajadores Unidos en la Lucha (Center for Workers United in Struggle).

“Cities have a critical role to play in addressing human trafficking and severe exploitation, and government

efforts must be matched by leaders and organizations that can reach deep within their communities and lift the voices of the most vulnerable,” said Megan Tackney, program manager at Humanity United. “We are excited to support organizations that can leverage their unique expertise to elevate the role of survivors and advance advocacy that addresses the root causes of exploitation.”

Last February, the Pathways to Freedom Challenge also announced its support of three senior fellows in Atlanta, Chicago, and Minneapolis to develop citywide approaches to better prevent human trafficking

and support survivors. The grants announced recently will complement local government efforts by working at a community level to address some of the cities’ biggest challenges.

Three of the grants were awarded to local nonprofits committed to addressing economic and other social injustices that are at the root of severe exploitation. Each grantee has grassroots community organizing capabilities and the ability to reach thousands of low-wage worker communities that have traditionally been vulnerable to exploitation, including immigrants, communities of color, and women. www.thechicagocitizen.com

A fourth grant was awarded to the Survivor Alliance, an organization dedicated to uniting and empowering survivors of slavery and human trafficking around the world. “Survivor Alliance is honored to work collaboratively with our allies and elevate survivor leadership,” said Minh Dang, Survivor Alliance executive director.

“Our aim is to ensure that people with lived experiences of human trafficking become more connected with each other and fellow civic leaders.”

“Survivors remain severely underserved, and many – especially survivors of color, Indigenous survivors, immigrant survivors, LGBTQ youth,

people with disabilities, and those struggling with addiction – are too often overlooked or ignored,” stated Puja Dhawan, Director, Initiative to End Violence Against Girls and Women at the NoVo Foundation.

The Partnership for Freedom, created by Humanity United, is a public-private partnership dedicated to spurring innovation in the fight to end human trafficking. Pathways to Freedom, the Partnership’s third challenge, is led by Humanity United and the NoVo Foundation.

Learn more at https://pathwaystofreedom.org or follow @pathwaysfreedom on Twitter and Facebook.

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BUSINESS

Social media … you can’t get away from it, so do it the right way

BY RONA BORRE

Our current digital landscape provides a wealth of opportunities for networking that may not have existed pre-social media. With this increase in “connectedness,” however, comes an even bigger increase in risk. We are now open to the critique of hiring managers before we set foot in the door for a job interview. Rona Borre, the CEO and Founder of Chicago-based staffing agency Instant Alliance AKA The Chicago Tech Connector provides her “do’s and don’ts” when it comes to maintaining a professional social media presence: DO: l Get recommendations from previous coworkers and managers.

These recommendations will build the credibility of your LinkedIn profile and provide fodder for your claimed skillset. I recommend asking for recommendations soon after you transition out of the position, so your strengths and skills are top-of-mind for the people who will be writing about you. l Engage with and share articles or news relevant to your industry.

Hiring managers want someone who is smart and capable, but most

Rona Borre, the CEO and Founder of Chicago-based staffing agency Instant Alliance AKA The Chicago Tech Connector provides her “do’s and don’ts” when it comes to maintaining a professional social media presence.

importantly they want someone who is passionate about their industry.

Showing that you are aware of what is going on in your industry will give you a leg up on others applying for the same job. This can be as simple as sharing an article; you don’t need to

be writing your own blog posts. l Remove old photos. No potential employer wants to Google you and find that photo of you funneling beer at a tailgate in college. It may have been cool then, but it is definitely not cool now. A single photo like this

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could cost you the job before you even get an interview, and you may never even understand why.

DON’T: l Badmouth brands or previous employers. This is one of my biggest

pet peeves. I don’t care if your flight was delayed or your boss was a jerk. You never know how people and brands are connected.

That airline may be the largest corporate sponsor of the nonprofit you’re applying to. And if you’re venting in a public forum about a manager, it makes me question your professionalism, judgement and composure. l Connect with everyone who sends you a LinkedIn request.

Obviously, it’s great to build and maintain a large online network, but I’ve gotten some pretty sketchy requests (even on LinkedIn). Once you connect with someone, they are a reflection of you. Anything they do or say online can have an impact on your presence.

I recommend only accepting requests from people you know or who were referred to you by someone you know.

Get political. Look, we live in a complicated political climate these days. Everyone has opinions and feels the need to express them, but you never know who your hiring manager will be. If you feel the need to express yourself on Facebook or Twitter, please change your privacy settings accordingly.

For Fourth Consecutive Year, Unity Hospice Named Winner of the Chicago Area 2018 Top Workplaces Award Unity Hospice has been awarded a 2018 Top Workplaces honor by the Chicago Tribune. This is the fourth consecutive year Unity Hospice has received the award (2018,’17,’16,’15).

The list is based solely on employee feedback gathered through a third-party survey administered by research partner Energage, LLC (formerly WorkplaceDynamics), a leading provider of technology-based employee engagement tools.

The anonymous survey measures several aspects of workplace culture, including alignment, execution, and connection, just to name a few.

“Top Workplaces is more than just recognition,” said Doug Claffey, CEO of Energage. “Our research shows organizations that earn the award attract better talent, experience lower turnover, and are better equipped to deliver bottomline results. Their leaders prioritize and carefully craft a healthy

workplace culture that supports employee engagement.”

“Our employees are the biggest differentiator for Unity Hospice,” said President and CEO Michael Klein, founder of Unity Hospice. “For more than 26 years, they have provided the most compassionate care to our patients and families.

Their caring nature is shown towards each other, too, making Unity Hospice a great place to work.”

Unity Hospice is the only hospice in the greater Chicago area to receive a Top Workplace award four consecutive years. In all, more than 2,600 organizations were invited to submit, with 150 emerging as 2018 Top Workplaces.

“Becoming a Top Workplace isn’t something organizations can buy,” Claffey said. “It’s an achievement organizations have worked for and a distinction that gives them a competitive advantage. It’s a big deal.”

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CITIZEN | Chicago Weekend | Week of Nov. 14, 2018

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FASHION

PRNewsfoto/KISS

KISS Teams Up With alice + olivia For New Limited Edition imPRESS Press-On Manicure Designer Collection There's BIG news in nails, as KISS unveils the alice + olivia x imPRESS Press-On Manicure Collection, which launched recently. The exclusive designs are available for a limited time on imPRESSManicure.com and in select alice + olivia retail locations nationwide.

Designed by Stacey Bendet for alice + olivia, the fashion-forward collection features six striking nail designs. "Like alice + olivia, imPRESS is not afraid of bold patterns or vibrant colors. They were the perfect partner to bring my nail art visions to life," says Bendet. Nail designs are trending as the ultimate fashion accessory, and the alice + olivia x imPRESS Press-On Manicure collaboration brings fashion right to your fingertips, with looks from cool casual to total glam. Nails are now the ultimate fashion accessory, and with imPRESS Press-On Manicure, you have the ability to switch up your look in just minutes.

"We initially partnered with the illustrious Stacey Bendet for New York Fashion Week, creating one-of-a-kind nails for her 'Passport to Wonderland' themed SS19 presentation," says Annette DeVita-Goldstein, Senior Vice President of Global Marketing for KISS Products, Inc. "The collaboration grew into an exclusive nail collection because we strongly believe Bendet's creative vision and empowering designs are a perfect match for the innovative imPRESS brand." imPRESS Press-On Manicure achieves a one-step gel manicure in minutes with patented SuperHold Dual-Layer Adhesive for optimal wear. imPRESS requires no glue, won't damage nails and offers hassle free removal. imPRESS Press-On Manicure redefines the press-on nail experience!

For more information, imPRESSManicure.com Facebook/Twitter/Instagram: @imPRESSManicure @aliceandolivia #AOxIMPRESS

Mieka Joi's Rich Girl Candy fashion line celebrates five years of fashion fun with an abundance of colorful creativity meshing the cultures of electronic dance music and hip hop!

Fashion Designer Mieka Joi Celebrates Rich Girl Candy Clothing Five Year Anniversary Fusing EDM and Hip Hop Culture When clothing designer Mieka Joi introduced her Rich Girl Candy concept in 2013, fashionistas knew she was unveiling an imaginative new concept.

Fusing the psychedelic exuberance of the electronic dance music (EDM) lifestyle with the street savvy of hip hop culture, Mieka's Rich Girl Candy exploded on the fashion scene with an abundance of colorful creativity.

She captured the hearts of women who wanted to feel as electric as the music that sound tracked their lives.

Five years later, her line has expanded beyond an activewear brand comprised of just unique hoodies, hats and t-shirts. With new additions that include her wildly popular rainbow inspired Rich Girl Candy hair extensions, shimmering Rich Girl Candy jewelry, eclectic Rich Girl Fox Fur slides, and a fun assortment of festival gear and accessories, Mieka Joi has assembled a treasure chest of opulence for luxurious shopping adventures.

Actress and media personality LaLa Anthony, recording artist Monica, performing artist Teyana Taylor and rapper Trina are just a sampling of the celebrity factor who now rock and roll with Rich Girl Candy glam.

Juggling entrepreneurship with motherhood, fashion and the limelight run in the family for Mieka Joi. A Chicago native, Mieka Joi is the former longtime girlfriend of NBA player Derrick Rose. Their young son, six-year-old Derrick Rose Jr., has already grabbed his own headlines as a celebrity child model and accompanies his mom on many of her business ventures.

Though Rich Girl Candy is celebrating a successful five years, Mieka Joi is no newcomer to fashion. In fact, she will tell you that she was born into it! "My mom has always been into fashion, so I was her dress-up doll as a child. Even after www.thechicagocitizen.com

delivering me, my mom and dad brought me home in a Gucci GG signature fabric bassinet and baby blanket!

As a child, department stores were always my preference over playgrounds! My mother's good friend was well renowned fashion designer Barbara Bates. I remember going to Barbara's shop when I was six years old. We would design purses and clothes for my dolls, and then she would help me sew and make them."

Mieka Joi initially launched her career as a stylist. She attended Clark University for mass media arts, majoring in public relations, marketing and advertising and began an internship at Roc-a-Wear during her sophomore year, assisting the district buyer for the brand in Atlanta. Her first business, "Socialite Styling," offered fashion, makeup, and hair consulting to everyone as well as celebrities that included tennis champion Serena Williams, reality TV star, Malaysia Pargo and athletes Derrick Rose and Carlos Boozer.

Mieka Joi has special plans closing out the year in celebration of her five-year milestone. December will see her hosting a "pop up fashion museum" for rap star Trina in Miami as well as the release of her unicorn influenced holiday line. Mieka is also planning to open her first stand-alone boutique in Chicago, to support her burgeoning online business.

While Rich Girl Candy's theme channels the essence of mythical creatures like unicorns and mermaids, Mieka continues to emerge as her own mythical figure, by providing fashion seekers Rich Girl Candy in all its many delightful flavors. Visit her rainbow collection at www.RichGirlCandy. com. Follow Rich Girl Candy on Instagram at @ richgirlcandy; on Facebook at @Rich Girl Candy; on Twitter at @RichGirlCandy and on Pinterest at Rich Girl Candy.

6 | CITIZEN | Chicago Weekend | Week of Nov. 14, 2018

ENTERTAINMENT

Bicentennial reveals star-studded lineup for state’s 200th birthday party An original musical rendition of the Gettysburg Address with Miguel Cervantes will be featured in a night of tributes to Illinois entertainers, with performances by Illinois’ top musicians, a Chicago sports championship parade, and a star-studded cast of Illinois celebrities lined up for the state’s Bicentennial Birthday Party at the United Center Dec. 3.

Details for the event were revealed recently at a press briefing hosted by Second City and “Saturday Night Live” alum Tim Kazurinsky from the Museum of Broadcast Communications, whose interactive “Saturday Night Live” exhibit served as a fitting backdrop.

“It’s amazing how many people from Illinois have contributed so momentously to history, theater, film, art, entertainment, science, sports and politics,” Kazurinsky said. “There are way too many to put on flashcards, but if people come to the show, they’ll see just how entertaining and impactful Illinoisans have been.”

The program for the 200th Birthday Party features six acts that highlight the people, places, events and innovations that were Born, Built and Grown in Illinois.

Among the most anticipated acts is a tribute to Abraham Lincoln, that includes a special musical rendition of the Gettysburg Address starring Miguel Cervantes, who plays Alexander Hamilton in Chicago. Broadway In Chicago along with Musical Director Michael Keefe and Broadway In Bronzeville have created this musical adaptation that will be performed along with Broadway In Chicago’s Illinois High School Musical Award-winning students from across the state.

REO Speedwagon, recently voted Illinois’ top musical group in a recent statewide Bicentennial

survey, will rock the United Center as part of the tribute to Illinois entertainment. REO’s Kevin Cronin addressed reporters remotely while on tour to express the band’s excitement.

“We’ve been thrilled to fly the flag as proud Midwesterners and Illinoisans throughout our careers and we are honored to come and celebrate our home state’s 200th birthday,” he said. “Hey Illinois … get ready to party.”

For the sports segment of the show, the United Center will be transformed into a parade of Olympic Champions, championship team owners, legends, trophies and celebrity fans who will recreate celebrations of Illinois’ greatest sports moments. The Bears, Blackhawks, Bulls, Cubs and White Sox will be well represented.

The Rockford Peaches also will be recognized

on the 75th anniversary of their first All-American Girls Professional Baseball League championship.

Legendary Blackhawks anthem singer Jim Cornelison will do the honors to open the party.

Previously confirmed to participate are members of the Chicago Symphony Orchestra, Styx, Blues legend Buddy Guy, Olympic champion Jackie Joyner-Kersee, Bill Kurtis and Joe Mantegna.

Bicentennial Office Executive Director Stuart Layne noted there will be other celebrities added to the program and many surprises in store for the evening.

Tickets are $75 and $50 and are on sale through Ticketmaster and at the United Center box office. For information go to www.illinois200.com. The Sheraton Grand Hotel is the Official Hotel of the Bicentennial Birthday Party. For event discount: https:// book.passkey.com/ gt/217155572? gtid=640413d02234f1b2eb6cba0769bcf817.

Top Chart Topping Grammy® Nominated Recording Artist William Murphy Releases New Single 'Settle Here' Two-time Grammy® Award-nominated, two-time Dove Award-nominated and Stellar Award-winning artist, William Murphy recently released his new single “Settle Here”, which is available now on digital platforms and impacting radio. “Settle Here” is the lead single off Murphy’s forthcoming sixth album Settle Here, which is scheduled to release March 2019.

Delivering yet again another heart-rending single, “Settle Here” is an atmosphere shifting worship anthem, capturing Murphy’s live performance in Atlanta. Written by Murphy and coproduced by Kenneth and Tasha Cobbs Leonard, the single is a collective plea for God’s presence.

As a reverent worship leader, singer and songwriter, Two-time GRAMMY® AwardWilliam Murphy is at nominated, two-time Dove the helm of enduring Award-nominated and Stellar praise anthems Award-winning artist, William “Praise Is What I Do,” Murphy recently released his “It’s Working,” and new single “Settle Here.”

“Everlasting God”.

“Settle Here” follows Murphy’s most recent acclaimed GRAMMY®-nominated live releases, the #1 album Demonstrate (2016), which featured two hit singles "Arise (You Are Good)" and "Everlasting God" (feat.

Bishop James Morton), and God Chaser (2013).

William Murphy: “Settle Here” is available now. https://WilliamMurphy.lnk.to/fIoXtPR To connect with William Murphy III, visit: Website: www.williammurphy.org Twitter @pastormurph Facebook: /OfficialWilliamMurphy Instagram: @williammurphyiii

The Marke’ Venue, an event space in Atlanta, will offer businesses, organizations, and Super Bowl affiliates special early-bird rates over the next few months in celebration of the upcoming 53rd annual National Football League Championship.

Atlanta Venue Offers Special Rates for Super Bowl LII The Marke’ Venue, an event space in Atlanta, will offer businesses, organizations, and Super Bowl affiliates special earlybird rates over the next few months in celebration of the upcoming 53rd annual National Football League Championship, which will be held in the city’s Mercedes Benz Stadium. The luxury Atlanta event space will provide discounts of $1,200 plus complimentary dedicated valet and champagne service to persons who secure their booking before November 20, 2018.

“Our city is thrilled to host one of the largest, and most moving sporting, cultural, and entertainment events in the country,” said Taylor. “I don’t think The Marke’ will be the only venue to offer special Super Bowl Rates, but our pricing and service are unmatched. If you want to leave an everlasting impression on your friends, colleagues, and associates, this is the place to make it happen,” said Kela Taylor, owner of The Marke’ Venue which opened its doors in 2015.

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The 53rd Super Bowl will take place at the Mercedes Benz Stadium on February 3rd, 2019, a mere 8-minute drive from The Marke’ Venue’s midtown location.

Interested parties are being asked to submit a booking request through the official website as soon as possible, as calendars for this and other venues in the area are expected to fill up fast as the game-day approaches. A virtual tour is available on the website, as well as inperson tours via appointment.

CITIZEN | Chicago Weekend | Week of Nov. 14, 2018

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First-time homebuyers will need to complete a Homeownership Educational Program. Other offers may be available, consult your lender for details. Exclusions apply. Associated Bank reserves the right to discontinue the program at any time without notice. * The Leading Lender designation is based on information gathered from the Home Mortgage Disclosure Act data compiled annually by the Federal Financial Institutions Examination Council. The results of the data were obtained through RATA Comply, June 2018.

Loan products are offered by Associated Bank, N.A., and are subject to credit approval and involve interest and other costs. Please ask about details on fees and terms and conditions for these products. Property insurance and flood insurance, if applicable, will be required on collateral. Member FDIC. Equal Housing Lender. (10/18) 12546

T:6.5”

Find out if you qualify for up to $4,000† in grants. Contact us today.

8 | CITIZEN | Chicago Weekend | Week of Nov. 14, 2018

CALENDAR Years of Timuel D. Black, Jr. Symposium and Centenary Birthday Gala Join hundreds of supporters, families and friends to pay homage to Timuel D. Black, Jr. on his 100th birthday. Bronzeville Baba, historian, activist, educator and cultural icon will be celebrated in December. A Symposium on the Life and Times of Tim Black, featuring Lonnie Bunch, will be held

Saturday, Dec. 8th, 1:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m., at the Logan Center, 915 E. 60th St. No admission fee. Registration required.

On Sunday, Dec. 9th, Tim Black’s bestest birthday party, TDB 100 Years: Music and Memories, will take place, 3:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m. at the South Shore Cultural Center, 7059 S. South Shore Dr. Donation

requested. General seating $100.

The celebration is organized by the Vivian G. Harsh Society (VGHS) and the Tim Black 100 Committee. To register/pay online: http:// harshsociety.org/donate/ note Tim Black 100 Gala. For more information, call the VGHS office: 312-544-9188.

Celebrate The Holiday Season At Millennium Park Campus

M

illennium Park will be the epicenter of holiday cheer in Chicago, featuring your favorite seasonal traditions, Chicago’s official Christmas Tree, ice skating, music, exhibitions, a NEW art market and free family fun.

The 105th Annual Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony will take place on Friday, November 16, at 6pm, featuring music, Santa Claus and program emcee Miguel Cervantes, who can now be seen as Alexander Hamilton in the Hamilton Chicago Company currently playing Broadway In Chicago’s CIBC Theatre, as well as fireworks after the lights go on at 6:30pm.

The program will feature music by actress, singer and songwriter Cozi Zuehlsdorff. Her career started off with a bang at the age of 12 when she was cast as Hazel in the feature film Dolphin Tale along with its successful sequel.

She can be seen in the recently released Disney DCOM Freaky Friday and look for Cozi's Christmas release "It's a Wonderful Life" coming out this month. Cozi will also be taking part in the Magnificent Mile Lights Festival on Saturday, November 17 aboard the Southwest Airlines float.

Also performing will be cast members from Emerald City Theatre’s production of Ken Ludwig’s ‘Twas the Night Before Christmas, on stage this holiday season at Broadway In Chicago’s Broadway Playhouse at Water Tower Place, now playing through December 30. Additional music performances by musicians from the Grant Park Music Festival will be followed by a special appearance by Santa and Mrs. Claus.

The City of Chicago’s 105th Christmas Tree is a 60-foot Norway Spruce from Elmhurst, Illinois, donated by Deborah Orth and her family.

The Tree, selected out of 79 tree nominations, will shine in Chicago’s iconic Millennium Park (Washington St. and Michigan Ave.) from November 16 through January 6, 2019. The lights adorning the Tree are being donated by IBEW Local 134 and the decor at its base is provided by the Millennium Park Foundation.

NEW this year, the Millennium Park Art Market with School of the Art Institute of Chicago, Columbia College Chicago and After School Matters will feature one-of-a-kind items, including jewelry, fashion, painting, sculpture, prints, drawings and more on sale by more than 150 student artists. Part of the City of Chicago’s Year of Creative Youth, the Holiday Art Market is supported by the Millennium Park Foundation. The market is free admission and will run November 16–18, 11am–7pm in a

Celebrate The Holiday Season At Millennium Park Campus, with Holiday Traditions Including the City of Chicago Christmas Tree, Ice Skating and Much More.

heated tent on the Chase Promenade North.

The McCormick Tribune Ice Rink at Millennium Park will also open earlier in the day on Friday, November 16, at noon, with skating continuing through Mid–March 2019.

The ice rink will offer skating with a twist this season through Themed Skate Nights on most Thursdays, November 29–March 7, 6–8pm.

Skaters are invited to put on a festive costume and join in for themed ice skating parties hosted by local Chicago DJs. HIGHLIGHTS FOR THE HOLIDAY SEASON AT THE MILLENNIUM PARK CAMPUS The Millennium Park Campus is comprised of events and attractions at Millennium Park, the Chicago Cultural Center, Maggie Daley Park, the Art Institute of Chicago, the Harris Theater and Park Grill. For the complete schedule of events, visit millenniumpark.org.

Bundle up and get ready to belt out some holiday classics during Caroling at Cloud Gate. This festive series is part concert, part sing-along at Cloud Gate, aka “The Bean” on Fridays, November 23 through December 14 with a bonus performance on Wednesday, December 12. Concerts are free and scheduled from 6 until 7pm, weather permitting.

CAROLING AT CLOUD GATE SCHEDULE Nov. 23: The Old Town School Community Choir l Nov. 30: Janet Sutton & the Voices of ACME l Dec. 7: Chicago Chamber Choir l Dec. 12: The King's Singers, Apollo Chorus of Chicago and ChiArts: The Chicago High School for the Arts, in collaboration with Harris Theater l Dec. 14: Chicago Gay Men’s Chorus l

There’s more skating and family fun just across the BP Bridge at the Skating Ribbon in Maggie Daley Park. The Wreathing of the Lions has been a tradition at the Art Institute of Chicago for more than 25 years; watch on November 23 as cheery holiday wreaths are placed on the regal lion statues on the museum steps (where they’re up all season), then head inside for art-making activities.

And you won’t want to miss the Dance-Along Nutcracker® at the Chicago Cultural Center on December 2—with dance lessons and live music for children of all ages and abilities under the world’s largest Tiffany stainedglass dome.

Admission is FREE to all Millennium Park holiday events and made possible by the Millennium Park Foundation, with support from the Chicago Transit Authority.

www.thechicagocitizen.com

For information about Millennium Park, visit millenniumpark.org, call 312.742.1168, and join the conversation on Facebook (Millennium Park), Twitter and Instagram (@ Millennium_Park).

For information about the Chicago Cultural Center, visit chicagoculturalcenter. org, call 312.744.3316, and join the conversation on Facebook (Chicago Cultural Center), Twitter and Instagram (@ ChiCulturCenter).

And for information about programs presented by the Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events, visit cityofchicago. org/dcase, call 312.744.3316, and join the conversation on Facebook (Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events), Twitter and Instagram (@ChicagoDCASE) #ChiHolidays.

CITIZEN | Chicago Weekend | Week of Nov. 14, 2018

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For The Latest News Coverage from Locally or Nationally . . .

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10 | CITIZEN | Chicago Weekend | Week of Nov. 14, 2018

CITIZEN ON THE GO

Monarch Foundation Awards Highlights

Pictured are members of the Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. at the 35th Monarch Award Gala “A Tribute to Black Men, A Royal Affairs. The event took place recently at the Hyatt Chicago. Ms. Tonya Francisco, WGN Co-Anchor served as Mistress of Cermonies. Photo by Tamiko Jones

Phi Beta Sigma Award Dinner Highlights

The EZRA Project 7th Annual Torchbearers’ Awards Luncheon Highlight

Rev. Gloria Randolph was the recipient of The Ervin_Carter Award for Church Leadership for over 35 years of service to the Church and Community. Pictured are: Candace Carter, Daughter; Rev. Gloria Randolph and husband Reese Randolph.

Top Ladies of Distinction

Members of Top Ladies of Distinction Chicago Chapter poses for a photo during a recent event held in Chicago. Photo by CREDD. www.thechicagocitizen.com

Congratulations to the 2018 Phi Beta Sigma, Upsilon Sigma Chapter “Crescent Moon Award”, Honorees.

Phi Beta Sigma Photos by Darryl Earl

CITIZEN | Chicago Weekend | Week of Nov. 14, 2018

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CLASSIFIEDS SERVICE

SERVICE

theft by keeping their Federal Student Aid ID confidential, and reporting any suspected fraudulent account activity immediately.

• Sync up. Using the IRS Data Retrieval Tool can expedite the process by automatically syncing and populating tax return information into the FAFSA. Note: the IRS Data Retrieval Tool is currently only available for those completing the FAFSA at fafsa.gov.

• File every fall. Complete the FAFSA as a high school senior, and every year in college and graduate school. Filing a new FAFSA each year is the only way to remain eligible for federal student aid, and the amount of aid can vary year-over-year.

Learn more by accessing free online resources, tips, tools, videos and more, available at salliemae.com/fafsa.

“For high school seniors and returning college students, the time to start thinking about next year is now,” says Martha Holler, senior vice president, Sallie Mae. “The simple act of completing the FAFSA can translate into thousands of dollars to pay for college, but it’s critical to start the process early so you don’t miss out.” ________________________________________

Wait, What?

Scholarships Are Taxable?

(StatePoint) Everyone knows about scholarships. They’re no-strings-attached money to help students pay for their higher education. Right?

Usually, but not always. In some cases, there are significant strings attached -- including situations in which scholarships are treated as taxable income. While unusual, it’s important for students, their families and scholarship providers to understand all the implications.

Tax Status The tax status of scholarships first codified in 1954 was simple: for students pursuing a degree, all scholarships, fellowships and grants were taxfree. But later legislation specified portions of a scholarship could be taxed if it is considered “fees for services,” or if it’s used for living, travel or research expenses.

What’s more, scholarships for non-degree-candidates are also taxable. As professional certifications and certificate programs become vital to certain industries, experts say these laws put non-traditional students at risk of a heavy tax burden.

The Impact

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AUCTION FALL CLASSIC AUCTION November 16th & 17th 5pm Union, IL Coin-op, Phonographs, Advertising, Pinballs, Slots, Cars, & MORE! 1965 Shelby Cobra 427 CSX, Mills Violano, Double Dewey 815923-7000 www.DonleyAuctions.com __________________________________

MISCELLANEOUS SAWMILLS from only $4397.00 - MAKE & SAVE MONEY with your own bandmill - Cut lumber any dimension. In stock ready to ship!

FREE Info/DVD: www.NorwoodSawmills.com 800 567-0404 Ext.300N __________________________________

TRAINING/EDUCATION AIRLINE CAREERS FOR NEW YEAR BECOME AN AVIATION MAINTENANCE TECH. FAA APPROVED TRAINING. FINANCIAL AID IF QUALIFIED - JOB PLACEMENT ASSISTANCE. CALL AIM 800-481-8312. __________________________________

WANTED TO BUY FREON R12 WANTED: CERTIFIED BUYER will PAY CA$H for R12 cylinders or cases of cans. (312) 291-9169; www.refrigerantfinders.com __________________________________

RENTAL Room for rent Grand Crossing neighborhood no deposit required has laundry facility use of kitchen full bathroom and central air if interested contact Ms. D 312 208 8870 __________________________________

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 h t t ps : / / w w w. i s b a . o r g / p u b l i c / i l l i n o i s lawyerfinder __________________________________

EDUCATION

Get a Jump Start on College Financial Aid (StatePoint) With the changing leaves and autumn chill come a few staples students can count on: fresh notebooks, fall festivals, and the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).

Students heading to college next year, returning college students, and grad students can already get started on the FAFSA for academic year 2019-20, which opened for applications on Oct. 1, 2018. Completing the FAFSA is the most important step to qualify for $150 billion available in financial aid including grants, work-study, and federal student loans.

What’s more, completing the FAFSA early is critical because some aid is awarded first come, first served. In addition, schools use it to assemble financial aid packages, states use it to determine eligibility for state aid, and it’s required for many scholarship applications.

To help your family prepare to complete the FAFSA, Sallie Mae, the nation’s saving, planning and paying for college company, is offering the following tips: • Be first in line. The earlier families fill out the FAFSA, the better their chances of being in line for aid. Also, those who complete and submit the FAFSA early will receive their Student Aid Report sooner and may receive financial aid award letters from schools earlier.

• Bring the basics. Before beginning the application, expedite the process by getting prepared.

Both parents and students should create a username and password -- a Federal Student Aid ID -and gather Social Security numbers, driver’s license numbers, bank statements, tax returns and W-2 forms.

• Get connected. New this year, students and families can complete the FAFSA using the myStudentAid app on any Android or Apple device.

Regardless of what device you use, remember that it’s always free, so watch out for sites that charge fees or make promises that sound too good to be true. Students can reduce the risk of identity

Some experts say taxing scholarships comes at a cost for students and scholarship providers and even the federal government.

“For students, it can harm their ability to pay for their education,” says Robert C. Ballard, president and CEO of Scholarship America, the nation’s largest nonprofit scholarship and education support organization. “For providers wanting to make the biggest charitable impact, it can make providing scholarships less attractive than alternative philanthropic efforts.”

With most federal financial aid calculations based on the pre-tax value of the scholarship, students risk a shortfall in aid. All of this has a disproportionate impact on low-income students. Those from the bottom income quartile spend the largest percentage of family income on higher education; almost half of that money is spent on the nontuition costs for which scholarship awards are taxable.

“Taxing scholarship funds may increase government revenue in the short term, but it’s shortsighted,” says financial aid expert Mark Kantrowitz.

“The federal government benefits financially longterm when students graduate and have the potential to earn more taxable income.”

Should They Be Taxed?

Kantrowitz, along with Scholarship America’s Despina Costopoulos Emerson, say restoring scholarships’ tax-free status will help certificateand degree-seeking students, and those who must work out of necessity, pursue their education without undue financial burdens.

To learn more about taxing of scholarships visit blog.scholarshipamerica.org.

“Scholarship America and our partners are in ongoing talks with members of Congress, and we hope to see some progress on initiatives that will ensure qualified scholarships are available to students to pay the full cost of education and allow scholarships to be used, tax-fee, to pay for room and board, transportation and other college-related expenses,” says Ballard. “In the meantime, students and their families should research the specifics of all grants, scholarships, fellowships and tuition waivers they are offered in order to understand the true value of their financial aid package after taxes and plan accordingly.”

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