Chicago Weekend Citizen 12-08-2021

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 Dec. 8, 2021

| Vol. 52 | No. 50 | www.citizennewspapergroup.com

CHICAGO WEEKEND

The Barbara Bates Breast Imaging Center at Mt. Sinai Hospital is named after fashion designer and breast cancer survivor Barbara Bates. Photos provided by Mt. Sinai Hospital

THE BARBARA BATES BREAST IMAGING CENTER OPENED AT MT. SINAI HOSPITALL Barbara Bates is a fashion designer and a Breast Cancer Survivor. Mt. Sinai Hospital celebrated in November by naming its Breast Cancer Imaging Center in her honor. PAGE 2

1health Streamlines Rapid Test Results for Healthcare Providers and Employers

FASHION: Kendra Scott Partners with Jennifer Hudson to Give $100,000 In Twelve Days

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Serving The Black Community For Decades |

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NEWS briefly NEW “SPACE TO GROW” SCHOOLYARDS UNVEILED

SPACE TO GROW IMPROVES QUALITY OF SCHOOLYARDS, NEIGHBORHOODS, AND OUR CITY’S ENVIRONMENT

Chicago Public Schools (CPS) celebrated two additional Space to Grow schoolyards Monday, following months of work to transform the play spaces. CPS representatives and elected officials as well as parents and community members unveiled two new Space to Grow schoolyards at Isabelle C. O’Keeffe and Daniel Wentworth Elementary schools.

“I wish to extend our gratitude to A Space to Grow for supporting the students and families of the Wentworth Elementary School community,” said District Network 11 Chief Dr. Julious Lawson.

“This new playground equipment will provide students an amazing space to play while allowing them additional opportunities to learn, unleash their imaginations and be healthier while at school.”

The new schoolyards will each feature a playground, track, and turf field where students can play and a garden space. O’Keeffe Elementary is an AUSL Network School.

Space to Grow transforms Chicago schoolyards into lovely yet functional spaces for students and community members to play, learn and teach.

The schoolyards help encourage physical activity, outdoor learning and community engagement.

These infrastructures are also environmentally friendly with their materials, techniques, and surfaces to help stop the flood of neighborhoods.

Chicago Public Schools and its partners at Space to Grow, Openlands, Metropolitan Water Reclamation District of Greater Chicago, Chicago Department of Water Management, and Healthy Schools Campaign aim to overhaul 34 schoolyards by 2022.

Space to Grow is managed by Healthy Schools Campaign and Openlands and the schoolyard renovations are made possible through funding and leadership from CPS, the Chicago Department of Water Management and the MWRD of Greater Chicago.

RUSH ENERGY SECURITY BILL SIGNED INTO LAW AS PART OF BIPARTISAN INFRASTRUCTURE INVESTMENT AND JOBS ACT WASHINGTON — Energy security legislation introduced by U.S. Representative Bobby L. Rush (D-Ill.), Chair of the House Committee on Energy and Commerce’s Energy Subcommittee, was signed into law last week as part of the bipartisan Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (H.R. 3684).

Rush’s Enhancing State Energy Security Planning and Emergency Preparedness Act authorizes the Department of Energy (DOE) to provide federal financial assistance to states for the implementation, review, and revision of state energy security plans.

The energy security plans would assess a state’s circumstances and make proposals to strengthen, secure, and ensure the reliability and resilience of that state’s energy infrastructure. The legislation stipulates that the plan must address potential hazards to each energy sector or system, including physical and cybersecurity threats.

“Recent cyber threats, including the Colonial Pipeline cyberattack, have served as sharp reminders of the urgent need to modernize and protect our nation’s energy infrastructure from bad actors,” said Rush. “My Enhancing State Energy Security Planning and Emergency Preparedness Act will help states address energy security vulnerabilities and modernize their infrastructure to meet the challenges of the 21st century. I am thrilled that this important and timely legislation has now become law.”

The Barbara Bates Breast Imaging Center opened at Mt. Sinai Hospital Continued from page 1

BY TIA CAROL JONES

Barbara Bates is a fashion designer and a Breast Cancer Survivor. Mt. Sinai Hospital celebrated in November by naming its Breast Cancer Imaging Center in her honor.

Bates didn’t have proper information about the disease. She believes if she did, that her breast cancer would have been detected sooner.

Twelve years later, education around Breast Cancer is more available and accessible. Bates still wanted her community to know how prevalent Breast Cancer is. After she finished her treatment, she started to raise funds around Breast Cancer and got connected to the Mt. Sinai Hospital, located at 1500 S. Fairfield Ave. Bates donated to ‘Helping Her Live’, an organization within Mt. Sinai aimed at encouraging women to get breast cancer screenings.

When the president of the Mt. Sinai Hospital received Bates’ donation, he asked her to fund raise for them. He gave her an amount and a timeline, with a caveat if she completed the goal; an imaging center would be named after her. She declined it at first.

Mt. Sinai Hospital was persistent. Bates was connected to Debra Wesley at Mt. Sinai. She started attending meetings and doing her research. She became a huge fan and wanted to let people know it was a gem in the West side community where it is located. Bates started to do fun fundraisers.

Because of Barbara Bates donation to Mt. Sinai Hospital it will be able to purchase a 3D Mammography Machine. Photos provided by Mt. Sinai Hospital

Bates was doing walks and hosting fashion shows to raise money. The money she raised went toward the renovation of the center and the purchase of a 3D Mammography Machine. Right now, Mt. Sinai has 2D imaging machine. The 3D Machine will enable them to see through the breast more clearly, especially for patients with dense breasts. It will allow for smaller cancers to be found, which can lead to smaller stages for diagnosis and improved outcomes. The prognosis would also be better with the 3D Mammography Machine.

Mt. Sinai has a comprehensive Breast Center, with the imaging center, mammography, radiology and MRI, as well as a dedicated breast surgeon, medical oncology, radiation oncology, pathology, all the pieces of the puzzle to have breast healthcare for the hospital’s patients.

“The idea for the center was something somebody else came up with and I rallied behind it, but I didn’t really know the significance of it until I walked in that room with some of the young women who helped me fundraise,” Bates said. “Now, I’m in it for life.

You can’t have your name put on something and walk away from it. There’s more work that needs to be done with it.”

There isn’t an earthly word that Bates can attach to the feeling of walking into the Barbara Bates Breast Imaging Center for the first time. There’s no word that is good enough for it.

“I thank God that I’m still around to see the room. It just made me think, I want to do more. The room is wonderful, I want to make the room epic. What else can I do? I want to keep going,” Bates said.

U.S. Department of Education Announces $20 Million in American Rescue Plan Grants Advancing its commitment to equity, meaningful consultation, and relief for Tribal Nations, the U.S. Department of Education announced approximately $20 million in grants to Tribal Educational Agencies (TEAs) to meet the urgent needs of students in response to the coronavirus pandemic. The American Rescue Plan Act’s American Indian Resilience in Education (AIRE) grant program will fund culturally relevant projects—that include at least one of the activities from section 6121(c) of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965—designed to assist and encourage Native American children and youth to enter, remain in, or reenter school at any grade level from Pre-K through grade 12. These activities include a broad range of direct education, health, and workforce preparation services for Native students, their teachers, and their families.

“The Department of Education is committed to advancing equity and excellence for Native American students,” said U.S. Secretary of Education Miguel Cardona. “The ARP AIRE funds will be critical in helping Tribal Educational Agencies bring students back to engaging and culturally responsive in-person learning. These resources will support the efforts of Tribal leaders to improve educational opportunities and outcomes for Native children and youth; honor Tribal traditions, cultures and languages; and elevate the deep reserves of knowledge and expertise in these communities.”

The AIRE grant program is a one-time discretionary grant competition authorized under the American Rescue Plan Act to provide awards to TEAs for activities authorized under section 6121(c) of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965. Funding is www.citizennewspapergroup.com

being awarded to 15 TEAs, including for the following projects: The Seneca Nation of Indians in New York will use funds to support the Literacy Language Culture Project, which will assist Seneca children to enter, remain in, and reenter school by advancing the inclusion of Seneca language, literacy, and culture in school activities. (Award amount $482,172) The Pinoleville Pomo Nation ARP-AIRE Project in Oregon will provide special health and nutrition services and other related activities, that address the special health, social, and mental health needs facing Native youth in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. (Award amount $399,999) The Kenaitze Indian Tribe in Alaska will use funds to connect Native youth with cultural, academic, and community support networks to remove barriers facing Native families to access and utilize school services. (Award amount $372,436) The Department advanced its commitment to engage in regular and meaningful consultation and collaboration by conducting a virtual Tribal consultation session regarding the AIRE program on April 26, 2021. Consistent with the Department’s trust responsibility to Tribes and its Tribal consultation policy, the Department consulted with elected officials of Tribal Nations to ensure that their views inform the Department’s policy decisions related to the priorities, requirements, and definitions that govern this competition.

For more information about this grant competition visit https://oese.ed.gov/offices/american-rescue-plan/american-rescue-plan-american-indian-resilience-in-education-arp-aire/.

CITIZEN | Chicago Weekend | Week of Dec. 8, 2021

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NEWS

POLITICAL Affairs Duckworth Introduces Bipartisan Resolution to Support At-Risk Youth and Help Eliminate Homelessness

Sen. Tammy Duckworth

“School Building C” at Altgeld Gardens in Chicago faced demolition when it was included on the 2021 Most Endangered Historic Places in Illinois. The community wanted to see the school, built in 1944, rehabilitated and reused for jobs and vocational training opportunities for Altgeld Gardens residents. Since the Most Endangered listing in May 2021, Chicago Public Schools has halted demolition plans. Photo credit: Sean Reilly.

Landmarks Illinois seeks nominations for 2022 Most Endangered Historic Places in Illinois CHICAGO PRNewswire -- Landmarks Illinois, a statewide historic preservation advocacy nonprofit organization, is now accepting nominations for its 2022 Most Endangered Historic Places in Illinois. Nominations are due Monday, Jan. 10.

Nonprofit organizations, neighborhood groups, preservation advocates, city officials and residents of Illinois are encouraged to submit a nomination for a place in their community that is in critical need of preservation.

Nominated sites must be valued by local residents, or celebrate local history or culture but are not required to be locally or nationally designated landmarks.

The Most Endangered Historic Places in Illinois is Landmarks Illinois’ longest-running advocacy program.

The annual list calls attention to historic and culturally significant sites throughout the state that are threatened with deterioration, demolition or inappropriate development. Since the Most Endangered program began in 1995, more than 100 previously “Most Endangered” designated sites have been saved from demolition or stabilized. Dozens more have reinvestment projects pending or underway.

Landmarks Illinois will announce the sites selected for the 2022 Most Endangered Historic Places in Illinois at a virtual press conference in April 2022. Those interested in submitting a nomination are also encouraged to take a look at the sites named to past Most Endangered lists during the program’s more than 25-year history.

Additional program and nomination guidelines can be found in the online nomination form.

Benefits of ‘Most Endangered’ designation Sites included on Landmarks Illinois’ Most Endangered Historic Places in Illinois routinely receive a heightened level of statewide attention from residents, governing bodies and media outlets, which help bolster advocacy efforts for preservation of the site. Inclusion on the Most Endangered list can also lead to legislative efforts that aid in a site’s eventual preservation.

Landmarks Illinois promotes the Most Endangered properties throughout the year on its website, social media, email and print newsletters and more. These communications are

seen by thousands of Illinois residents and preservation partners. Also, once a property is included on Landmarks Illinois’ Most Endangered list, Landmarks Illinois staff remain committed to its preservation efforts, continuing communication and relationships with local advocates and providing resources (including small grants) and connections where possible. In many cases, this has led to years- or decades-long relationships between local advocates and Landmarks Illinois. Staff at Landmarks Illinois can also serve as a link to pro bono services from other preservation professionals such as architects, engineers, historians and more.

Landmarks Illinois, now celebrating its 50th anniversary year, is a membership-based nonprofit organization serving the people of Illinois. We inspire and empower stakeholders to save places that matter to them by providing free guidance, practical and financial resources and access to strategic partnerships.

For more information, visit www.

Landmarks.org. To learn more about the Most Endangered Historic Places in Illinois program, visit https://tinyurl. com/3tnwbeh3.

www.citizennewspapergroup.com

U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) recently introduced a bipartisan resolution to recognize November as National Runaway Prevention Month.

The resolution will help raise awareness of the nationwide

runaway and homeless youth crisis and educate the public on the leading factors that contribute to youth homelessness in the United States. U.S. Senators Dan Sullivan (R-AK), Patty Murray (D-WA), Lisa Murkowski (R-AK), Alex Padilla (D-CA), Dick Durbin (D-IL) and Angus King (I-ME) joined Duckworth to introduce this resolution.

“It’s a tragedy when any child does not have a safe roof over their head, but all too often their heartbreaking stories go unheard and unnoticed,” said Duckworth. “This resolution will help raise awareness of this crisis and illustrate the urgent need to enhance affordable housing opportunities and mental health resources for at-risk children and families everywhere.”

Each year, approximately 4.2 million youth run away from home or experience homelessness, leading many to become victims of human trafficking or be coerced into criminal activity.

Senator Duckworth has introduced this resolution in the United States Senate with bipartisan support since 2017.

National Runaway Prevention Month would coincide with anti-homeless programs and activities sponsored by national organizations, such as the National Network for Youth, and Illinois-based organizations, such as the National Runaway Safeline (NRS) and the Night Ministry, which all work to eradicate and prevent youth homelessness.

This resolution is endorsed by 20 leading organizations, including: National Network for Youth, National Runaway Safeline, SchoolHouse Connection, National Crittenton, Covenant House, National Youth Employment Coalition, American Youth Policy Forum, Coalition for Juvenile Justice, Rights4Girls, The McCain Institute, First Focus Campaign for Children, Center for Disability Rights, Forum for Youth Investment, Family Promise, Association of Children's Residential & Community services (ACRC), Boys Town, National Parents Union, National Association of Counsel for Children, National Safe Place Network and Children’s Rights.

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BUSINESS

Triller Acquires Thuzio Triller Eyeing Expansion of Thuzio Events to Consumer Audiences

Scott Mills, Chief Executive Officer, BET, PRNewsfoto/ViacomCBS Inc.

Scott M. Mills Appointed to Chief Executive Officer of BET Appointment Reinforces ViacomCBS’ Strengthened Position as the Industry’s Largest Commissioner of Black Premium Content NEW YORK PRNewswire -- ViacomCBS (NASDAQ: VIAC, VIACA) announced that Scott M. Mills has been promoted to Chief Executive Officer of BET, the nation’s leading provider of quality content from Black creators.

The announcement was made today by President and CEO of ViacomCBS, Bob Bakish, and Chairman and CEO of Showtime Networks, David Nevins.

During his four-year tenure as BET President, Mills sparked invaluable change that structured and positioned the legacy brand for future success in a rapidly evolving media landscape. Since his appointment in 2018, Mills expanded the BET brand well beyond the framework of a traditional cable network, into the multi-platform media powerhouse that it is today with the launches of BET+, a premium subscription streaming service; BET Studios, an innovative studio venture providing equity ownership to Black content creators; BET’s wide-reaching digital platforms and footprint; and much more. Bringing A-list content creators into the fold, Mills set new precedents for BET, and, by extension, ViacomCBS, making the global media brand the largest commissioner of Black premium content through partnerships with Tyler Perry, Lena Waithe, Kenya Barris, Lee Daniels, and many others.

“Under Scott’s leadership, BET has reached new heights with continued commercial success and profound cultural impact during a period of immense industry and social change,” said Bob Bakish, President and CEO of ViacomCBS. “Scott has been instrumental in the expansion of the BET brand as the premier destination for Black entertainment and top talent, and he has spearheaded transformative initiatives that not only give back to the community but also play a critical role in representation in front of and behind the camera. BET is a source of inspiration and pride across the company, and I’m excited for BET’s strong future ahead with Scott at the helm.”

Under Mills’ executive leadership, BET will continue to build upon its 40-year legacy of entertaining Black audiences and its commitment to entertain, engage, and empower the Black community. Philanthropy has always been central to BET’s mission, however Mills’ dedicated social impact strate-

gies have inspired company- and industry-wide change. One such example is Content for Change, a multi-pronged initiative that leverages data to effect societal change and combat bias, that was recently adopted across the entire ViacomCBS organization. Whether investing in Black communities, discovering, and fostering Black creatives and talent, or rallying Black leaders across business, media, and entertainment to raise nearly $20M in COVID-19 relief to support Black communities hit the hardest by the virus, BET remains the industry leader in Black premium content and steadfast in its duty to the Black community.

“BET is uniquely positioned to thrive at the intersection of content, community, and culture,” said Mills. “Through the power of the BET brand, our incredible team and great partners, we’ve established leading business franchises across linear, streaming, digital, and most recently, content development and distribution. It is an extraordinary privilege to steward such a culturally significant brand with an enormous legacy as a catalyst for change. As CEO, I look forward to working with my immensely talented BET colleagues and our great partners to ensure that BET continues to thrive and remains ideally positioned to succeed in the ever-changing media landscape.”

ViacomCBS (NASDAQ: VIAC, VIACA) is a leading global media and entertainment company that creates premium content and experiences for audiences worldwide.

Driven by iconic consumer brands, its portfolio includes CBS, Showtime Networks, Paramount Pictures, Nickelodeon, MTV, Comedy Central, BET, CBS All Access, Pluto TV and Simon & Schuster, among others. The company delivers the largest share of the US television audience and boasts one of the industry’s most important and extensive libraries of TV and film titles. In addition to offering innovative streaming services and digital video products, ViacomCBS provides powerful capabilities in production, distribution and advertising solutions.

For more information about ViacomCBS, please visit www.viacomcbs.com. For more information about BET, visit BET.com. www.citizennewspapergroup.com

LOS ANGELES PRNewswire -- Global AI-powered short-video app Triller, via its parent company TrillerNet, today announced it has acquired Thuzio, a leader in business-to-business premium influencer events and experiences. Triller will leverage Thuzio’s extensive live event capabilities and deep reach into the worlds of sports, culture and business to create new opportunities in the Triller ecosystem of influencers, fans and brand partners.

Founded in 2012 by former NY Giants great Tiki Barber and entrepreneurs Mark Gerson and Jared Augustine, New York-based Thuzio provides businesses with access to iconic figures in sports, entertainment, culinary and business through interactive events and interviews. Clients engage Thuzio for custom produced events in either live or virtual settings or access existing events produced under the Thuzio Originals banner as a way to inspire their customers and sales teams.

“We are thrilled to bring the innovative Thuzio brand in the Triller family,” said Mahi de Silva, CEO of TrillerNet. “Tiki, Jared and Mark have built an extraordinary business that underscores the importance of experiential content and the growing demand among Millennials and Gen-Z for unique and memorable ‘experiences.’ Their far-reaching access to leaders across sports, culture and business means Thuzio is not only additive as an integrated part of our Triller ecosystem and offerings to brands, but also a business that we are excited to grow on its own.”

“Triller is one of the most exciting and ambitious entertainment brands operating today, and Mahi, Ryan and Bobby’s bold vision and smart risk-taking were huge factors in our decision to join forces,” said Jared Augustine, Thuzio co-founder and CEO. “Triller is the perfect place to continue our triple digit growth, and we are excited at the potential to leverage Triller’s influencers and fans to diversify our base and attract a whole new range and category of consumer-facing brands.”

Barber, Augustine and Gordon will remain with the company, and Thuzio will continue as an owned and operated business while also helping Triller significantly expand its live event capabilities. Thuzio joins other live event assets owned by TrillerNet including the ground-breaking live music and “artist battle”

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platform Verzuz, founded and run by music icons Swizz Beatz and Timbaland and boxing and live music performance brand Triller Fight Club, launched in partnership with rap legend Snoop Dogg.

In addition to Verzuz and Triller Fight Club, TrillerNet, under the leadership of CEO and Chairman Mahi de Silva, also owns global sports and entertainment streamer FITE (fite.tv) and leading AI-powered customer engagement platform Amplify. ai. The company also operates TrillerTV, a long-form content streaming platform with more than 65 original shows. Ryan Kavanaugh and Bobby Sarnevesht are co-controlling shareholders of TrillerNet. Bill Meara, an investor in TrillerNet, was instrumental in bringing the parties together.

TrillerNet is a first-of-its-kind company consolidating technology and content platforms to lead the move to Internet 3.0. TrillerNet pairs the culture of music with sports, fashion, entertainment, and influencers through a 360-degree view of content and technology. TrillerNet owns the globally popular Triller app used by musicians, celebrities, athletes and overall culture setters reaching more than 350 million users worldwide. The Triller app—unlike other popular short-video apps—encourages its influencers to post the content created on the app across other social media platforms—and uses proprietary AI technology to push and track their content virally to affiliated and non-affiliated sites and networks reaching millions of additional users. TrillerNet additionally owns Verzuz, the livestream music platform launched

by Swizz Beatz and Timbaland; Amplify.ai, the leading customer engagement platform; and FITE, the premier global PPV, AVOD and SVOD streaming site.

For more information, visit https://www.triller.co.

CITIZEN | Chicago Weekend | Week of Dec. 8, 2021

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FASHION Kendra Scott Partners with Jennifer Hudson to Give $100,000 In Twelve Days AUSTIN, Texas PRNewswire -- National jewelry retailer Kendra Scott commits to giving back $100,000 as part of their holiday campaign, “The Giving Gives On.” As a brand with philanthropy within its DNA, Kendra Scott knows that the best gifts are the ones that give back to create good in the world.

To launch The Giving Gives On campaign, Kendra Scott partnered with Jennifer Hudson, the Grammy-winning singer and Academy Award-winning actress to create good this season. Aligning with the brand’s Shop For Good initiative, between now and Sunday, Dec. 12, Kendra Scott will donate 20% of the purchase price of the Madelyn Gold Statement Earrings In Multi Mix – selected by Hudson herself – to the Julian D. King Gift Foundation of the Entertainment Industry Foundation, a 501(c)(3) charitable organization.

Additional celebrities and brand friends will be involved throughout The Giving Gives On campaign to support efforts that enable organizations to help women and youth live their brightest, healthiest, and most empowered lives this season.

This holiday season, Kendra Scott is partnering with local communities and organizations by hosting Kendra Gives Back Events with a commitment to raise $50,000 for charitable causes with a donation match of $50,000 from the brand. Now through December 12, Kendra Scott is turning the 12 days of Christmas into 12 days of The Giving Gives On. The brand will be hosting local Kendra Gives Back Events between December 1-12 throughout the 110+ Kendra Scott retail locations nationwide to raise funds for long-standing non-profit partners

and local community initiatives.

Kendra Scott also launched a national holiday video campaign, cast with families and individuals who have directly benefited from the brand’s giveback initiatives, highlighting real-life examples of how every Kendra Scott gift has wider impact for good.

“As someone who loves giving gifts, I believe the best gifts are the ones that serve a greater good - which is exactly what our jewelry does”, says Kendra Scott. “We create beautiful jewelry that brings joy while giving back. I’ve seen directly how our jewelry gives on, and in the spirit of the holidays, wanted to serve even more communities this year.”

Raised and donated proceeds will benefit many giveback partners and specifically organizations such as The Jed Foundation, Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals, and Inheritance of Hope.

Kendra Scott is a leading fashion accessories brand inspired by the personal experiences, travel and sense of community of its founder and designer, Kendra Scott. With over 2,000 employees, Kendra Scott has over 100 standalone stores across the US and is sold in premiere retailers including Neiman Marcus, Nordstrom, Bloomingdale’s and 600 specialty boutiques worldwide and boasts a thriving web business. Kendra Scott is known for its kaleidoscope of beautiful accessories as well as the innovative and customizable Color Bar™ experience. As the brand continues to grow, the company remains true to its founding philosophy of “Family, Fashion, Philanthropy” and since 2010, the company has given back well over $40 million to local, national and international causes.

For more information, please visit www.kendrascott.com/gifting-gives-on.

Hair Extensions Brand Makes U.S. Debut with Teyana Taylor ATLANTA PRNewswire -- Darling, the number one hair extensions brand out of Africa focused on textured hair needs of Black women, announced their U.S. market launch and debut partnership with music sensation, Teyana Taylor. Darling specializes in the elevation of beauty and illumination of confidence, helping women to own their power with the reassurance of great hair.

The latest brand under the Godrej North America umbrella, the brand’s U.S. launch today also unveiled its partnership with multi-hyphenate artist, Teyana Taylor, a recognized actress, dancer, choreographer, director, model and singer-songwriter. Together with Taylor, who is currently embarking on her farewell tour, “The Last Rose Petal,” the brand will push forward their shared mission of encouraging women to step into their power.

“Teyana Taylor is a confident and powerful woman who encourages others to follow their own paths and embrace their unique styles – we could not have chosen a better ambassador to amplify the attitude and spirit of Darling,” said Kendria Strong, Executive Vice President and Head of Marketing and Innovation of Godrej North America. “We are so thrilled to work with Teyana and are excited for her to showcase the brand during her Last Rose Petal tour. As an artist, mother, and innovator, she embodies the multifaceted nature of women who want it all and creates her future with ingenuity and style.” “Our Darling consumers would also have a chance to win a VIP experience to the tour in multiple locations by visiting darlinghair.com,” said Henry Esiaba, Senior Marketing Manager for Darling.

As part of the partnership, Taylor will serve as a face of the brand’s wide variety of styles on her farewell tour – from braids, to faux locs, to ponytails – and display the power and confidence of what it means to be a Darling woman. Together, Darling and Taylor will create gorgeous content of the extensions in action that will be played at the beginning of every tour stop this fall, conduct surprise and delight moments to introduce the brand to consumers firsthand, execute a two-day pop-up experience in Atlanta, GA with styling and mentorship sessions, and much more.

“As a woman with natural hair, I fell in love with

textured hair extensions like locs, braids and twists because it fits into my everyday lifestyle,” said Taylor about the exciting partnership. As a woman on the go, it’s important to know that you’re partnering with a brand that not only gives you great style selections but keeps your hair healthy doing protective styling. Darling offers textures that blend perfectly and resemble natural hair, reassuring you that you are going to look your best and feel your best without having to alter who you are naturally.

“As a brand ambassador, I’m excited to rock a variety of styles and help empower women everywhere to know that they have IT.” Darling will provide product insight and step-by-steps on how to recreate Taylor’s looks alongside expert insight from hairstylist ambassador and celebrity braider, Xia Charles. The content will live on social media and showcase how Darling empowers the wearer to be her boldest self by inspiring Black women who wear protective styles with superior extensions.

Darling’s naturally textured extensions are made with premium quality synthetic fibers that are PRNewsFoto tangle-free, easy to manage and soft to the touch. Available in a range of colors and categories including crochets, braids, ponytails, and locs, Darling’s premium textured fibers blend seamlessly with natural and straightened hair.

All Darling product is available for purchase beginning today at Amazon.com and darlinghair.com and will be expanding to additional retailers in 2022.

Darling is the number one hair extensions brand in Africa that is now available for purchase in the United States. Each Darling style is designed to showcase the simplicity, sexiness, and versatility of protective styling.

The brand’s mission is to provide superior ultra-blendable extensions, delivering texture that inspires black women with protective styles to own their power and be their boldest selves. The extensions, available in braids, locs, crochets and ponytails, resemble and perform like healthy, natural textured hair. Darling extensions are available for purchase online at Amazon.com and in-store at Walmart with additional retailers coming in 2022.

Learn more online: @officialdarlingusa #DarlingIHaveIt.

Rochelle Porter Design Unveils Vibrant New Prints And Products ATLANTA PRNewswire -- Today Rochelle Porter Design (RPD) released four new colorful, Caribbean-inspired prints for its stylish premium line of apparel, home décor, and accessories – ‘Kobo Black’, ‘It’s A Colorful Whirled, ‘Stay Warm’ and ‘Midnight Jacaranda’. The sustainable lifestyle brand has also added menswear and unisex sweatshirts and hoodies to its athleisure collection for the first time, and has launched limited-edition gift wrap available now through the end of November in partnership with ComfiArt. “After almost two years of living in a pandemic, I wanted to give

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customers bold unique motifs that are cheerful, bright, and full of hope this holiday season,” says brand

founder and designer Rochelle Porter. “Customers can also feel good about spending their dollar with a www.citizennewspapergroup.com

business that is committed to ethical manufacturing and sustainability from concept to customer.”

Porter launched RPD in 2018 with the purpose of evoking joy and happiness through design, while demonstrating that style and sustainability can be compatible. Inspired by her Guyanese roots, Porter personally hand designs all the patterns, which are printed on demand with sustainably sourced materials and eco-friendly dyes to eliminate waste and promote a clean supply chain.

Rochelle Porter Design is a lifestyle brand that brings bursts of joy to the everyday. RPD’s home

décor, accessories, and activewear feature vibrant prints derived from the founder’s original artwork and colorful Caribbean roots. Her travel-inspired patterns feature classic motifs with a modern twist. True to its tagline, “Design for abundant living,” RPD believes everyone along its value chain should live well.

The company prioritizes fair pay, ethical manufacturing, and the use of sustainable materials. RPD has collaborated with West Elm, and has been featured on The Today Show, Oprah Daily, and Southern Living.

To learn more and shop the brand, visit www.rochelleporter.com.

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NEWS

Habilitative Systems, Inc.’s First “Race and Health Equity Awards” Recognizes Healthcare and Community Leaders’ Contributions Making Inroads to Equal Access and Eliminating Disparity in Quality Healthcare CHICAGO (Dec. 2, 2021) – Habilitative Systems, Inc., will recognize outstanding individuals Dec. 9 for their work and contributions in tearing down the barriers to equal access and quality healthcare at the HSI Board of Directors’ inaugural “Race and Health Equity Awards” reception. The event will honor healthcare executives and community leaders who are committed to eliminating inequities within the African-American community.

The awards presentation will take place from 6 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.

Thursday, Dec. 9, at the Union Club of Chicago, 65 W. Jackson Blvd., Chicago. The event is free; register at https://bit.ly/3rs7y2Q. “Continued support as a corporate sponsor for this event will help

sustain the vital services provided to those most impacted by race and health inequities and create pathways to healthcare careers by supporting Community Health Worker (CHW) students,” said Cynthia Washington, Chair, Fundraising Committee.

“We are looking forward to the professional networking, appetizers, cocktails and learning more about what can be done to narrow the healthcare gap.”

Individuals who will be honored are: • Donna Thompson, the CEO of ACCESS since 2004, who has been on the front lines of patient care delivery for more than 35 years.

• Herbert C. Buchanan, Jr., Regional Operating Officer for AM-

ITA Health, a 15-hospital system in Chicago and the suburbs, and President and CEO of St. Joseph Joliet Medical Center.

• Kimberly E. McCulloughStarks, Deputy Director of the Illinois Department of Healthcare and Family Services, and an experienced executive in legislative initiatives, policy development, regulatory reform, human resource management, budget, procurement, and diversity & inclusion programs.

• Helen Davis Gardner, M.D., Medical Director of Behavioral Health for Government Programs for HCSC and Associate Professor of Psychiatry at Loyola University.

To ensure safe practices during the pandemic, guests are requested to provide evidence of vaccination

#BlackIsBrilliant Connecting Black Jewelry Designers With Top Celebrity Stylists.

We all know that Black talent — actors, directors, screenwriters — have been historically under-represented on the red carpet. What gets less attention is that those who adorn A-listers on star-studded nights tend to be giant luxury brands, not independent designers, including Black fashion and jewelry designers.

In the wake of the Black Lives Matter movement, there has been a new focus on celebrating and promoting Black creative talent. In the jewelry world, the De Beers Group created an initiative to ensure Black jewelry designers had a chance to have their work seen on red carpets around the world. Their #BlackIsBrilliant program pairs Black jewelry designers, including Matthew Harris of Mateo and Jameel Mohammed of Khiry, with some of the most famed stylists working today to create bespoke jewels for today’s stars, in the hopes that deserving creative work begins to get an equal spotlight in every realm of creative talent.

Using natural diamonds from Botswana, a country whose economy has thrived thanks to the revenue produced through diamond mining, sorting and grading, these talented designers are creating true masterpieces that turn a page in infusing high jewelry with modernity and freshness.

https://www.debeersgroup.com/campaigns/black-is-brilliant www.citizennewspapergroup.com

and masks will be optional. For more information, please visit www. habilitative.org or contact Della Akres at 773-854-8313, drakres@ habilitative.org.

When it comes to illnesses such as heart disease, cancer, diabetes, Covid-19, HIV and access to quality healthcare, communities of color fare worse than white areas. While this is unsettling, HSI has had a significant impact in Chicago for more than four decades. This year, HSI joined forces with major health care institutions in Chicago to launch the Westside Health Equity Collaborative, which was formed to address critical race and health inequities. The organization also is an integral partner in the Collaborative Bridges effort to address rising behavioral health needs and suicide in the African-American community.

About Habilitative Systems, Inc. (HSI) For 43 years, Habilitative Systems, Inc. (HSI) has provided quality behavioral health and human

services programs to individuals and families in 15 underserved communities throughout the Chicago metropolitan area. HSI staff responded to the most pressing needs of society, serving persons with mental illness, disabilities, substance use disorders as well as seniors, and children experiencing prolonged trauma.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, HSI has responded once again by partnering with the City of Chicago’s Contact Tracing efforts and the Illinois Department of Health vaccination and testing initiatives.

Last year, the organization led a city-wide collaborative effort, the Counting on Chicago Coalition, to ensure an accurate count for Census 2020 that engaged 40 agencies and businesses. Thirteen community areas on the south and west sides of Chicago were targeted for this critical intervention. During this initiative, coalition partners conducted Social Determinants of Health Screenings and referred over 45,000 people with special needs to critical human services.

See what you’re going to owe: Cook County Treasurer Maria Pappas posts First Installment property tax bills on website Cook County Treasurer Maria Pappas has posted the First Installment Tax Year 2021 bills on cookcountytreasurer.com.

The First Installment, which is 55 percent of the previous year’s total tax, is due March 1, 2022. By providing an early look at the bills, property owners can plan their finances or make payments before the end of the year.

“During the holiday season, it’s good to think about what bills will come due in the new year,” Pappas said. “My office is committed to helping taxpayers keep their homes and seeing these bills early allows people to think ahead about their budgets.”

You can download your tax bill and make a payment by visiting cookcountytreasurer.com and following these steps:

• Select the blue box labeled “Pay Online for Free” • Enter your address or 14-digit Property Index Number (PIN) There is no fee if you pay from your bank account. The Treasurer’s Office accepts partial payments but First Installment taxes must be paid by March 1 to avoid a late charge of 1.5 percent per month, as mandated by Illinois law.

You can also use cookcountytreasurer.com to: • Search $84 million in available refunds.

• Check if you are missing out on $34 million in property tax exemptions, which lower your tax bill.

• Read the Pappas Studies, a series of research projects that includes a 20-year history of Cook County property taxes.

CITIZEN | Chicago Weekend | Week of Dec. 8, 2021

WHAT DOES A RETIRED FIREFIGHTER AND MARINE CORPS VET DO WHEN HE HAS QUESTIONS? HE MAKES A CALL.

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

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8 | CITIZEN | Chicago Weekend | Week of Dec. 8, 2021

HEALTH CARE TIPS The holidays are a time to celebrate traditions and make new memories. But with busy schedules, holiday obligations, and heightened health and safety concerns, the holidays can also lead to increased stress.

For many families impacted by dementia, it can be particularly difficult to navigate the holiday season. Loved ones with memory loss may find it challenging to interact with family and friends. And caregivers may feel overwhelmed by trying to manage everyone’s expectations for the holidays amid flu season and the COVID-19 pandemic.

Joyce Mahoney, Regional VP of Memory Care & Therapeutic Programming at Belmont Village, offers the following tips for making the holidays safer and more enjoyable for everyone.

Plan ahead Discuss the holidays with your family in advance. Make sure that everyone understands any changes your loved one is experiencing and considers what will be the most comfortable and enjoyable for them—even if that means spending time together from a safe distance, requiring all guests to wear masks, or celebrating virtually instead of in person. Create and share a wish list for useful, safe, and enjoyable gifts. Take the time to anticipate any stressful situations you may encounter and create a plan for how you will address them.

Let guests know what to expect While you’re planning, it’s helpful to let friends and family know exactly what to expect.

For example, a loved one with Alzheimer’s or dementia may have trouble following conversations or remembering who you are. It’s important to keep everyone informed on your loved one’s cognitive changes. Guests need to understand these changes in behavior so they don’t take them personally. After friends and family know what to expect, share some ideas for fun, meaningful ways to engage with the person living with memory loss.

Maintain routine as much as possible Loved ones experiencing cognitive decline thrive on familiarity and benefit from strict routine. Incorporate special holiday events while maintaining as much of their routine as possible. This can help avoid needless stress and confusion—and provide your loved one with a sense of comfort and control.

Build on traditions and memories A loved one with dementia may not be able to participate in every activity they used to, but it doesn’t mean he or she can’t be involved in the holiday celebrations. Modify your traditions or introduce new ones. Watch your favorite holiday movie, bake seasonal cookies, or sing your favorite carols together.

Involve your loved one with dementia Get creative and adapt holiday activities to their needs and abilities. Get them involved by asking them to help you make the food, set out decorations, or wrap gifts. Even simple tasks, such as helping send greeting cards, can help them enjoy the holidays and feel more included.

About Belmont Village Senior Living Founded in Houston in 1997, Belmont Village is an integrated developer, owner, and operator of high-quality seniors housing with more than 4000 employees. Its communities are renowned for distinctive design, high standards of life safety, reputation for quality of care and leading edge, award-winning programs. Belmont Village is certified as a Great Place to Work® and has been ranked as one of FORTUNE Magazine’s 50 Best Workplaces for Aging Services since 2018. Learn more about Belmont Village at www.belmontvillage.com and on LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.

COMMUNITY Raising Awareness of Parkinson’s Non-Motor Symptoms Via Storytelling (StatePoint) With the help of an Airstream trailer traveling the country, people with Parkinson’s disease will soon have a unique opportunity to record and share their experiences and personal stories as part of a program called “Yours, Truly.”

Nonmotor symptoms associated with Parkinson’s disease, as a whole, can be more troublesome than motor symptoms, in terms of quality of life. The stigma around these symptoms may also create challenges. As a recent survey shows, caregivers to those living with Parkinson’s disease psychosis are hesitant to discuss Parkinson’s non-motor symptoms involving psychosis with physicians in the presence of patients so as not to embarrass them.

“Patients and caregivers are reluctant to talk about non-motor symptoms out of concern for their loved ones,” said Leilani Pearl, senior vice president of communications at the Parkinson’s Foundation. “Having a place to hear and share the unique experiences of others living with Parkinson’s will increase awareness of symptoms and may help others get the care they need.”

“Parkinson’s disease affects about 1 million people in the United States, which may present with both motor and non-motor symptoms. Around half of the people living with Parkinson's disease may develop hallucinations or delusions over the course of their disease, but the majority of people don't proactively tell their physicians about these symptoms. That’s why I believe it’s so important to share experiences across languages and cultures,” said Dr. Gus Alva, assistant professor at University of California, Riverside Medical School, Department of Neuroscience.

The storytelling campaign is in collaboration with StoryCorps, a non-profit organization whose mission is to “preserve and share humanity’s stories in order to build connections between people and create a more just and compassionate world.” Sponsored by Acadia Pharmaceuticals Inc., “Yours, Truly” invites people with Parkinson’s disease and their care partners to record interviews about their lives and preserve their story in StoryCorps’ national archive.

Signs and symptoms of Parkinson’s disease can vary, with people experiencing both motor symptoms (such as slowness of movement, resting tremors, limb stiffness and trouble with balance) and non-motor symptoms (such as constipation, impaired bladder control, anxiety and depression, loss of mental sharpness/acuity, hallucinations and delusions). When people living with Parkinson’s disease experience hallucinations and/or delusions related to their condition, it is known as Parkinson’s disease psychosis. A hallucination is a perception-like experience that occurs without an external stimulus and is seen, heard, felt, tasted or smelled. A delusion is a false, fixed belief despite evidence to the contrary.

To share or view a story, access educational resources in English or Spanish, or to find out where you can visit the StoryCorps airstream, visit www.YoursTrulyPDP.com. Already, several Parkinson’s families have shared their stories and added their voices to StoryCorps’ national archive.

www.citizennewspapergroup.com

CITIZEN | Chicago Weekend | Week of Dec. 8, 2021

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NEWS

Cancer Patients Overlooked in COVID-19 Vaccine Rollout CHICAGO PRNewswire -Almost two-thirds of U.S. states failed to prioritize cancer patients for COVID-19 vaccinations, despite recommendations from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), according to a study being presented today at the annual meeting of the Radiological Society of North America (RSNA).

Cancer patients are particularly vulnerable to the effects of COVID-19. Both the disease and treatments like chemotherapy and radiation therapy can leave their immune systems in a weakened state.

Available vaccines are highly effective, but initial supply limitations forced the CDC’s Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices to make difficult patient prioritization decisions. People ages 16 to 64 with high-risk conditions were grouped into the final part of the first phase, along with people ages 65 to 74. However, this group encompassed 129 million people nationally, leading many states to sub-prioritize.

For the new study, researchers sought to determine the proportion of states that elected to follow CDC recommendations. They identified every states’ COVID vaccination webpage through keyword-based internet search and set out to identify information about vaccination for cancer patients.

While 43 states included cancer among criteria for vaccination, only 17 gave patients with cancer the same immunization priority as patients aged 65 to 74, and a mere eight precisely defined a qualifying cancer diagnosis.

“Although the CDC recommended that all states consider people with significant medical conditions to have equal vaccination priority with people over the age of 65, we found that nearly two-thirds of states did not give equal vaccination priority to patients with cancer,” said study lead author Rahul Prasad, M.D., from The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center in Columbus, Ohio.

Forty-two states did not clearly define the criteria for cancer patients to receive priority vaccination. This lack of clarity is problematic, Dr. Prasad noted, due to

CANCER PATIENTS ARE PARTICULARLY VULNERABLE TO THE EFFECTS OF COVID-19. BOTH THE DISEASE AND TREATMENTS LIKE CHEMOTHERAPY AND RADIATION THERAPY CAN LEAVE THEIR IMMUNE SYSTEMS IN A WEAKENED STATE. considerable variation within the cancer patient population.

“You could have someone diagnosed with breast cancer at age 40 who is now 55, in remission, and wondering if they’re eligible,” Dr. Prasad said. “On the other side of the spectrum, someone newly diagnosed with low-risk prostate cancer may not be particularly immunocompromised if they haven’t started treatment yet.”

Of the eight states that defined a qualifying cancer diagnosis for vaccine prioritization, six limited it to patients currently receiving treatment.

Dr. Prasad said the shortfall in the number of states that followed the CDC recommendations is partly due to attempts at streamlining vaccination efforts.

“I don’t think anyone intended to push people to the back of the line,” he said. “The efforts were well intentioned, but what ended up happening was that the CDC governing bodies’ definition of high-risk medical conditions was too broad.”

Early in the fall, the CDC approved a booster shot for seniors and high-risk individuals. Dr. Prasad said that these booster shots offer an opportunity to better mitigate disparities in vaccine access.

“It’s especially critical this time around to make sure these most at-risk people are getting their boosters in a timely fashion,” Dr. Prasad said.

Joshua Palmer, M.D., is the co-author.

RSNA is an association of radiologists, radiation oncologists, medical physicists and related scientists promoting excellence in patient care and health care delivery through education, research and technologic innovation. The Society is based in Oak Brook, Illinois. (RSNA.org)

1health Streamlines Rapid TestCall Results for Healthcare Providers and Employers 1-800-33 SAN FRANCISCO PRNewswire -- 1health, a leading cloud platform for modern diagnostic test management and pioneer of COVID-19 risk mitigation solutions, today announced the release of its newest offering, ResultShare, a powerful cloud-based platform designed to solve the deployment, tracking, and integration of results for rapid test devices.

As the COVID-19 pandemic progresses, employers and healthcare providers are looking for uncomplicated ways to efficiently implement testing and prevention strategies to safeguard their populations. Rapid Over the Counter (OTC) or Point of Care (POC) diagnostic tests offer a simple solution, but challenges with capturing and sharing results with the appropriate parties have slowed adoption.

1health, in partnership with healthcare providers, rapid test manufacturers, and enterprise partners, is now releasing the revolutionary ResultShare platform. ResultShare empowers test device manufacturers and distributors to better reach and serve their growing customer base by enabling simple registration, easy result capture & seamless system integrations.

Through the 1health solution, patients are able to register and capture test results in a few, simple steps. Results are uploaded to a secure health cloud where enterprises or healthcare providers can easily access them - pending the patient’s approval. The solution can be applied to virtually any rapid test device and designed for an easy, seamless launch. Further, any organization or provider with the appropriate permissions may access the health cloud, making

to report:

it easy for device manufacturers to leverage ResultShare for both existing customers and new business.

“Effectively managing the COVID pandemic is in part dependent on the integration of rapid test information into digital compliance databases, which has thus far been a barrier in the adoption of rapid testing across the country,” said Al Hariri, COO of 1health. “At 1health, we are committed to continued partnership with device manufacturers and distributors to ensure that through our new ResultShare platform, we can promote more widespread usage of these critical diagnostic test devices.”

The ResultShare platform builds on the 1health standard of delivering innovative integrations and interfaces that help labs and their customers make clinical testing more accessible and impactful. 1health was also a pioneer in developing and releasing COVID-19 testing and vaccine verification services, allowing companies across the country to safely bring their workforces back onsite. To learn more about ResultShare and other 1health COVID-19 initiatives, visit learnmore.1health.io/ResultShare.

At 1health, we’re committed to making diagnostic testing easy and accessible by building the infrastructure that helps labs- and their customers- connect patients to testing and care. Our powerful platform provides endto-end solutions to help labs streamline their processes, expand their capabilities, and enhance their accessibility while our flexible APIs enable lab customers to drive better patient engagement and compliance through uniquely accessible and impactful solutions.

To learn more, visit 1health.io.

Call

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Illegal or Suspicious Dumping to Waterways or Sewers

Waste needs to be prop 1-800-332-DUMP to report: treated and disposed of

can harm our waterway treatment plants. If you Debris and obstructions in waterways can cause something suspicious, c flooding. Our stream maintenance crews and

Waterway Blockages

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.

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

You can also su Metropolitan Water Reclamation District of Greater Chicago

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

ENTERTAINMENT

Own Sets Premiere Date For New Drama ‘The Kings Of Napa’ Series Set To Premiere Tuesday, Jan. 11 (Black PR Wire) LOS ANGELES, CA - OWN: Oprah Winfrey Network announced the first look at juicy new drama, “The Kings of Napa” from acclaimed writer and executive producer Janine Sherman Barrois (“Claws,” “Self-Made: Inspired by the Life of Madam C.J. Walker”) and Warner Bros. Television, to premiere on OWN Tuesday, Jan. 11, at 8 p.m. ET/PT. “The Kings of Napa” is centered on a gorgeous and picturesque Napa Valley, California vineyard owned by the Kings, an aspirational African American family whose wealth and status lands them on the pages of design magazines and society pages.

The wine business has brought the family success and acclaim, but following the patriarch’s sudden exit from the company, his three children must grapple for the reins to the kingdom — to their own power, wealth, and legacy.

The series features Ebonée Noel (“FBI,” “Wrecked”) who plays August King, the middle sibling and the family’s brilliant marketing whiz who’s passionate about wine and always looking for new ways to expand the business. Rance Nix (“Zero Issue,” “Amsterdam Ave”) plays Dana King, the older brother and the savvy CFO of the winery. Karen LeBlanc (“Ransom,” “Jack Ryan”) plays Vanessa King, the matriarch of the family who gave up her career to help run the winery in Napa with her husband Reginald King, played by Isiah Whitlock Jr. (“The Wire,” “Da 5 Bloods”). Yaani King Mondschein (“The Prince

PRNewsFoto

& Me,” “Saving Grace”) plays Bridgette Pierce, the cousin of the King siblings who works as the vineyard manager for House of Kings wine. Ashlee Brian (“The Forty-Year-Old Version,” “Family Reunion”) plays Christian King, the youngest brother with swag who manages the winery’s bottling facility but knows little about growing grapes. And Devika Parikh (“Grey’s Anatomy,” “Aquaman”) plays Melanie Pierce, August’s aunt who is now back in the States with a firestorm that threatens to change the King family forever.

“The Kings of Napa” is produced for OWN by Harpo Films in association with Warner Bros. Television. Sherman Barrois serves as showrunner and executive producer alongside Michelle Listenbee Brown (“Love Is__,” “Real Husbands of Hollywood”) and Oprah Winfrey. Academy Award® winner Matthew A. Cherry (“Hair Love”) directs the first two episodes of the series.

OWN: Oprah Winfrey Network is the first and only network named for, and inspired by, a single iconic leader. Oprah Winfrey’s heart and creative instincts inform the brand and the magnetism of the channel. OWN is a leading destination for premium scripted and unscripted programming from today’s most innovative storytellers. OWN connects with its audience wherever they are, inspiring conversation among a global community of like-minded viewers on social media and beyond.

Launched on January 1, 2011, OWN is a joint venture between Harpo, Inc. and Discovery, Inc. The venture also includes the award-winning digital platform Oprah.com. Access OWN anytime, anywhere on WatchOWN.tv, and on discovery+ across mobile devices and connected TVs. For more information, please visit www.oprah.com/own.

One of the entertainment industry’s most-respected providers of original programming since its founding in 1955, Warner Bros. Television produces original scripted dramas, comedies, and limited series for multiple platforms. As of November 2021, Warner Bros. Television is producing more than 60 scripted series for WarnerMedia’s HBO Max, external on-demand/streaming services, premium/pay and basic cable channels, and the five broadcast networks.

Big Papi Hosts 13th Annual David Ortiz Celebrity Golf Classic Jose Bautista, Tim Wakefield, Shawn Thornton & Barry Larkin, amongst others, attended Big Papi’s Floridian golf & social event to benefit The David Ortiz Children’s Fund MARCO ISLAND, Fla., PRNewswire -From November 19-21, more than 375 friends and supporters traveled to the JW Marriott Marco Island Beach Resort in Florida to attend the 13th annual “David Ortiz Celebrity Golf Classic.”

Hosted by the ten-time All-Star and threetime World Series champion, the three-day destination golf event raised a remarkable $1.36M for David Ortiz Children’s Fund whose mission is to provide lifesaving heart surgeries and care to children in Big Papi’s native Dominican Republic and New England. To-date, the Fund has saved the lives of over 1,000 children and has helped an additional 10,000 more.

In between hearing the touching stories of some families the Fund has assisted, the star-studded event had plenty of fun and surprises. Amongst the celebrity guests who attended were MLB legends and players Barry Larkin, Gary Sheffield, Thurman Thomas, Tim Wakefield, Jose Bautista, Jim Rice, Bobby Abreu, Bret Boone, Michael Tucker, Carl Everett, Joe Logan and Mychal Givens; NFL stars Neil Smith, Andre Rison, Lonie Paxton, Clinton Portis, Dorsey Levens, Willis McGahee, Joe Andruzzi, Pepper Johnson and Stephen Tulloch; reality stars from “The Bachelorette” fame Blake Hortsmann and Jason Tartick; former PGA pros Jon Curran and Kelly Sheehan; and former Boston Bruins goalie Tuukka Rask.

Additionally, former MLB pitcher Sean Casey hosted Friday evening’s golf draft where one-time Bruin enforcer and current Florida Panther’s Chief Commercial Officer Shawn

The celebrity golf captains take a group photo ahead of the shotgun start at the Rookery at Marco golf course (Marco Island, FL). David Ortiz Children’s Fund.

Thornton took the top-bid captain spot. On Saturday night, comedian-actor Lenny Clarke hosted the awards dinner where the three top-performing golf foursomes were honored with celebrity captain Pepper Johnson leading his team to first place while the team led by

Nomad Custom’s founder Roly Padron took second and Clinton Portis’ team landing in third. Also at the awards ceremony, former Baltimore Oriole outfielder Adam Jones videoed in live from Japan, where he is in playoffs, to pledge $10,000 following Papi’s personal pledge

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of $25,000 which will allow the nonprofit the ability to fund lifesaving heart surgeries for many more children.

For more information on the David Ortiz Children’s Fund, please visit: https://davidortizchildrensfund.org/.

CITIZEN | Chicago Weekend | Week of Dec. 8, 2021

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5 Holiday Travel Tips for Pet Parents (StatePoint) Traveling with pets over the holidays?

Whether you’re taking to the skies or the highways and byways, bringing furry friends along for the ride can sometimes be stressful for pets and people alike. Consider these tips to make the journey easier on everyone: 1. Pack right: Be sure to pack more than enough food and medication for your pet for the duration of your scheduled travels and beyond. You’ll want to make sure that your pet is all set should unforeseen circumstances arise, such as weather-related travel delays. You should also bring with you a water supply for your pet, bowls for food and water, a leash, carrier, a veterinary first aid kit, and of course, your pet’s favorite toys. And if you’re traveling somewhere cold and snowy, pack dog boots to protect paws from snow, ice and salt.

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

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

CBD products can help your pet cope with hectic holiday travels.

2. Support smooth sailing: Many dogs find travel particularly stressful. However, you can help support balanced behavior while on the road this season by giving your dog SurityPro Calm Soft Chews, a smoky bacon-flavored CBD soft chew for dogs. Formulated to support your dog’s ability to cope with everyday stress, these chews can also be useful for those pet parents who are staying home during the holidays and expecting to entertain frequent guests. From Canopy Growth, the industry leader in CBD science for pets, SurityPro offers an easy way to give just the right amount of CBD to your dog. The brand partners with veterinarians, scientists and leading academic institutions to create chews and drops that support dogs’ joint health and flexibility, healthy aging -- including cognitive function and eye health -- and products that enhance their physical and mental well-being.

For more information and directions for use, visit www.SurityPro.com.

3. Be prepared: Losing a pet is every pet parent’s worst nightmare, particularly when you are in an unfamiliar location. Microchipping however, can help unintentionally separated pets and families reunite safely and happily. This is especially important for jet set pets who are often far from home.

4. Play by the rules: Understand the state-by-state rules for driving with your pet. For example, a handful of states require that dogs be harnessed in the car with a dog seatbelt. Wherever your travels take you, driving with pets harnessed or in a crate is safer for both you and pets. Pets should never distract the driver or sit in the front seat where the impact of the airbag could hurt your pet if deployed.

5. Fly smart: Flying? Your pet should be in good health before taking to the skies. If you’re unsure if your pet is fit for air travel, consult your veterinarian. You should also be aware that some airlines have banned particular breeds from flying due to breathing issues caused by the length of their snout. Know the rules and recommendations before booking your flight.

With some smart travel strategies, you can help ensure the merriest season of the year stays happy and healthy for you and your pet.

SOUTH END

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

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SUBURBAN TIMES WEEKLY Bloom Township, Chicago Heights, Flossmoor, Ford Heights, Glenwood, Homewood, Lansing ,Lynwood, Olympia Fileds, Park Forest, Sauk Village, South Chicago and Steger Citizen Newspaper Group Inc., (CNGII), Publisher of the ChathamSoutheast, South End, Chicago Weekend, South Suburban and Hyde Park Citizen and Citizen Suburban Times Weekly. Our weekly publications are published on Wednesday’s (publishing 52 issues annually). Written permission is required to reproduce contents in whole or in part from the publisher. Citizen Newspaper Group, Inc. does not assume the responsibility for nor are we able to return unsolicited materials, therefore they become property of the newspaper and can or will be discarded or used at the newspapers disgratation. Deadlines for advertising is every Friday at noon. Deadlines for press releases are Thursdays at 10 am prior to the next week’s edition. Please send press release information to: editorial@citizennewspapergroup.com. For more information on subscriptions or advertising, call us at (773) 7831251 or fax (872) 208-8793. Our offices are located at 8741 South Greenwood Suite# 107, Chicago, Illinois 60619.

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12 | CITIZEN | Chicago Weekend | Week of Dec. 8, 2021

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iamBrandon takes his game to the next level with Xfinity Internet. He gets WiFi speed faster than a gig to game and stream for his legion of fans. And, when he’s not runnin’ it online, he kicks back with the ultimate in Black storytelling with the Black Experience on Xfinity. Plus, he enjoys his favorite streaming apps all in one place with his Xfinity Flex 4K streaming TV box, free with Xfinity Internet. Can your Internet do that?

Visit xfinity.com/xFi to learn more.

Restrictions apply. Not available in all areas. Internet: Gig speed requires Gigabit Internet and compatible xFi. Many factors affect speed, including equipment performance, interference, congestion, and speeds of visited websites. WiFi speeds are affected by additional factors, including distance from Gateway, home configuration, personal device capabilities, and others. For factors affecting speed visit xfinity. com/networkmanagement. Flex: Requires post-paid subscription to Xfinity Internet, excluding Internet Essentials. Not available to current Xfinity TV customers. Pricing subject to change. Taxes, fees and other applicable charges extra, and subject to change. Limited to up to 3 devices. 1 device included. Call for restrictions and complete details. ©2021 Comcast.

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Everyday player to award-winning streamer

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iamBrandon Award-Winning Streamer and Twitch Partner