Chicago Weekend Citizen 12-16-2020

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 The Citizen: Serving The Black Community For 55 Years Week of Dec. 16, 2020

| Vol. 51 | No. 51 | www.citizennewspapergroup.com

CHICAGO WEEKEND

New Report Documents Impact of COVID-19 on Black LGBTIQ People Globally Page 2

Condos Are Selling for a Record 17% Discount to Single-Family Homes Page 4 Austin Coming Together is one of the community organizations that was chosen to display a decorated tree on Michigan Avenue as part of the Festival of Lights, which is different this year, due to COVID-19. Photo courtesy of Austin Coming Together

7 Tips for Hosting a Virtual Holiday Cookie Exchange Page 6

TREE DISPLAY BRINGS AUSTIN TO MICHIGAN AVENUE

This is the time of year when people line Michigan Avenue for the BMO Harris Bank Festival of Lights. But, this year, due to COVID-19, the event is different. Instead of floats and music, windows are decorated by different community organizations. PAGE 2

|

|

|

advertising@citizennewspapergroup.com thechicagocitizen@thechicagocitiz www.facebook.com/durrell.garth.9 www.citizennewspapergroup.com

2 | CITIZEN | Chicago Weekend | Week of Dec. 16, 2020

NEWS briefly EDUCATION INTERDISCIPLINARY PARTNERSHIP SUPPORTS DIVERSITY IN EDUCATION AND ASSESSMENT RESEARCH Curriculum Associates and North Carolina A&T State University have formed an interdisciplinary partnership to support diversity in the education and assessment research fields.

Through a number of initiatives, the two organizations will engage in collaborative research aimed in part at eliminating testing biases in the classroom for Black and Brown students, expose university students to a spectrum of opportunities in education and research, train teachers and practitioners to become a part of the test writing and assessment process, provide scholarship support to lessen the debt burden of aspiring and existing scholars, and more.

Curriculum Associates will specifically support the university’s Innovation in Education initiative focused on providing transformative learning opportunities and delivering and sustaining academic breakthroughs. This will include faculty and student research grants that will provide resources to safeguard and enhance the quality of education for students while simultaneously assisting the university’s efforts to perform research surrounding education’s most pressing needs, including eliminating testing biases for historically marginalized groups in the classroom.

HEALTH

BYRON ALLEN AND DR. ANTHONY FAUCI TALK COVID-19 IMPACT ON THE AFRICAN-AMERICAN COMMUNITY Founder/Chairman/CEO of Allen Media Group, Byron Allen, recently sat with Dr. Anthony S. Fauci, M.D., director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, for a conversation about COVID-19’s devastating impact on the African-American community.

Hosted exclusively on Allen Media Group’s digital news platform/network, theGrio, the video interview featured Allen and Fauci unpacking community skepticism about vaccines, and how to reduce the spread of COVID-19. Allen calls Fauci an “American hero” and praises him for his efforts to keep Americans safe. Allen even offered to provide Fauci and his family use of a COVID-safe private jet for a vacation as an expression of gratitude for all of Dr. Fauci’s dedication and hard work. Dr. Fauci graciously declined Allen’s generous gesture as he is a federal government employee and not allowed to accept such gifts.

LAW & POLITICS

FTC RETURNS ALMOST $775,000 TO CONSUMERS WHO PURCHASED DECEPTIVELY ADVERTISED ARTHRITIS AND JOINT PAIN RELIEF SUPPLEMENT SYNOVIA FROM A.S. RESEARCH, LLC The Federal Trade Commission is sending checks totaling $774,755 to 13,221 consumers who bought Synovia, a supplement advertised and sold by A.S. Research, LLC as a treatment for arthritis and joint pain. The average refund amount is $58.60 per consumer.

According to the FTC’s complaint, A.S. Research made misleading health claims and used phony testimonials, including one in which a user said he “gave away his walker” after using the supplement. The FTC also alleged that the defendants told consumers they had to pay extra for a version of Synovia containing an ingredient added to increase pain relief and speed joint repair, when in fact all purchasers received that product.

The order settling the FTC’s allegations prohibits the defendants from misrepresenting the results of any scientific study or endorsement and requires them to disclose any material connections they have with endorsers. It also required the company to pay $821,000 to the Commission for consumer refunds. Refund recipients should deposit or cash checks within 60 days, as indicated on the check. The FTC never requires consumers to pay money or provide account information to cash refund checks. Consumers who bought Synovia, but who don’t receive a check, may contact the refund administrator, JND Legal Administration, at 833-707-1185.

Tree Display Brings Austin to Michigan Avenue Continued from page 1

BY TIA CAROL JONES

This is the time of year when people line Michigan Avenue for the BMO Harris Bank Festival of Lights. But, this year, due to COVID-19, the event is different. Instead of floats and music, windows are decorated by different community organizations.

Austin Coming Together was chosen as a community organization to decorate a tree and have it displayed in a window along Michigan Avenue.

Austin Coming Together’s window is located at 401 N. Michigan Ave. The organization also received a $2,000 grant from BMO Harris Bank.

“We created this new tradition as a concrete example of our commitment to the entire city of Chicago,” Kimberly Bares, president and CEO of The Magnificent Mile Association, said in a release.

Darnell Shields, executive director of Austin Coming Together, said the organization was invited to participate in decorating a window by BMO Harris Bank and the Magnificent Mile Association. “I think it was a collaboration between BMO Harris Bank and One Magnificent Mile Association looking to figure out how they could leverage

that event to do something that is more responsive to the time that we’re in, as a city, but also as individuals that look to enjoy the Christmas season,” he said.

Shields added, that given what Michigan Avenue going through what it has, in terms of culture and commerce, that there was an idea to have greater representation of the city on Michigan Avenue. “This is the center of the city.

And, I think that’s where they looked at reaching out to different community organizations that were INVEST South/West communities. Because the Mayor’s initiative around INVEST South/West focuses on 10-12 communities across the city, in terms of that investment strategy, and BMO Harris is a partner in that,” he said.

Shields said BMO Harris made an effort to reach out to those communities and organizations involved with INVEST South/West. He said that Austin Coming Together is a lead agency in several initiatives, when it comes to racial equity and responding to COVID-19.

Shields said the organization looked at it as a pretty unique opportunity and tried to figure out how to take advantage of it in a way that gives people from the community an opportunity

to be showcased as well as leverage fundraising and other development opportunities.

What they came up with is an “Around the World” Christmas Tree, decorated to represent different cultures and themes of people in Austin.

The theme of it is Austin Cares. Shields said it was a way to “bring Austin to Michigan Avenue.”

“We hope people walk past this window and get a sense that there are things happening that are uplifting across the city, specifically in one part of the city, in Austin. It is a community, for the most part, when you always hear about this community, it’s usually something negative, in terms of violence or people not working together,” he said. “We’re hoping that when people see this, they’ll get a sense of the alternate narrative, a narrative that we know, those of us who live in Austin know to be more true, that we enjoy the holidays just like everybody else, in our own unique way, by caring about each other, and caring about our city and about equity.”

The trees are on display on Michigan Avenue until Thursday, Dec. 31.

For more information about Austin Coming Together, visit austincomingtogether.org.

New Report Documents Impact of COVID-19 on Black LGBTIQ People Globally Global Black Gay Men Connect (GBGMC) has released “The Impact of COVID-19 on Black LGBTQI People,” GBGMC’s inaugural report on the drastic impact COVID-19 is having on Black LGBTQI people globally.

Between April and May of this year, GBGMC, in partnership with UHIA ESHIRI, launched a global survey targeting Black LGBT organizations and individuals across the globe.

This report documents the results of the survey that shows the drastic impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on LGBTIQ people globally.

As reported by the recently published report by Outright Action International, on their latest report titled “Vulnerability Amplified,” LGBTQ people across the globe are being impacted by the virus; In this report, GBGMC sought to gather specific data on how Black LGBTQ people across the world are affected and coping with the COVID-19 pandemic. As the world has now moved into the second wave of COVID-19, GBGMC’s hope is that this report offers some urgent lessons and recommendations in order to combat

Global Black Gay Men Connect (GBGMC) has released “The Impact of COVID-19 on Black LGBTQI People,” GBGMC’s inaugural report on the drastic impact COVID-19 is having on Black LGBTQI people globally.

the impact of the imminent lock down due to COVID-19.

The report indicates a looming exacerbation of discrimination, devastating

www.citizennewspapergroup.com

economic impact, risk of losing access to life-saving health care, and the marginalization of Black LGBTQ people.

There is an urgent need for government, international donors, UN agencies, the public sector, and the general public to come together and make sure that Black LGBTQ people, all LGBTQ people, are included and provided specific relief funds to mitigate the economic and health impacts the pandemic has and will worsen if not addressed.

In this report, GBGMC offered some specific recommendations on actions that local/national government, the UN, WHO, international donor agencies and the private sector can take to address the drastic impact the COVID-19 pandemic is having on Black LGBTQI people.

2020 has demonstrated the importance of investing in community structures and longtime support for community organizations.

Download the report here: https:// www.gbgmc.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/IMPACT-OF-COVID19-on-Black-LGBTQI-People.pdf

CITIZEN | Chicago Weekend | Week of Dec. 16, 2020

|

3

NEWS

32 Years Later, Study Finds High College Graduation Rates for Urban First-Graders Enrolled in 1980s Program

PRNewsfoto/United Airlines

United Launches Virtual, On Demand Customer Service at the Airport United passengers will soon have access to virtual, on demand customer service at the airline’s hubs, giving people an easy, contact-free option to get real-time information and support. Customers can access “Agent on Demand” on any mobile device to call, text or video chat live with an agent and get answers on everything from seat assignments to boarding times. Agent on Demand is currently available at Chicago O’Hare and Houston’s George Bush International Airports and is rolling out to United’s hubs by end of year.

“We know how important it is for our customers to have more options for a contactless travel experience and this tool makes it easy to quickly receive personalized support directly from a live agent at the airport while maintaining social distancing,” said Linda Jojo, United’s executive vice president for technology and chief digital officer. “Agent on Demand allows customers to bypass waiting in line at the gate and seamlessly connect with customer service agents from their mobile device, ensuring they continue to receive the highest levels of service while also prioritizing their health and safety.”

Here’s how it works: Customers can scan a QR code displayed on signage throughout United’s hub airports, or access the platform through self-service kiosks at select gate areas at Chicago O’Hare and Denver International Airports.

From there, customers will be connected to an agent by phone, chat or video, based on their preference.

Customers can ask any question they would typically direct to a gate agent, including questions on seat assignments, upgrades, standby list, flight status, rebooking and more.

Agent on Demand provides an extra level of convenience to customers, who can now easily connect with an agent while anywhere in the airport instead of waiting in a line at the gate, according to a press release.

Additionally, translation functionality is integrated in the chat function allowing customers to communicate with agents in more than 100 languages. Customers

can type in their preferred language and the messages will be automatically transcribed in English for the agents and in the selected language for the customer.

United was the first airline to debut this technology, which allows a variety of United agents to respond to inquiries, giving gate agents more time to provide service to customers while completing other critical pre-departure tasks.

Agent on Demand is the latest of many new technologies the airline has introduced to create a safer and more seamless experience for customers. United recently redesigned its mobile app with new enhancements intended to make travel easier for people with visual disabilities, introduced text alerts for passengers on standby and upgrade lists to reduce person-to-person interaction, and debuted a new chat function to give customers a contactless option to receive immediate access to information about cleaning and safety procedures.

A safer travel experience: United CleanPlusSM Since the start of the pandemic, United has enacted new policies and innovations designed to keep employees and passengers safer when traveling. According to a press release, it was the first U.S. airline to mandate masks for flight attendants, quickly following with all customers and employees. United was also among the first U.S. carriers to announce it wouldn’t permit customers who refused to comply with the airline’s mandatory mask policy to fly with them while the face mask policy is in place. United was also the first U.S. airline to roll out touchless checkin for customers with bags, and the first to require passengers take an online health assessment before traveling. United is applying Zoono Microbe Shield, an EPA-registered antimicrobial coating that forms a long-lasting bond with surfaces and inhibits the growth of microbes, to its entire mainline and express fleet before the end of the year.

For more details on all the ways United is helping keep customers safe during their journey, please visit united.com/cleanplus. www.citizennewspapergroup.com

A study of 250 urban first-graders enrolled 32 years ago in a comprehensive 12-year academic support program has found that approximately 81 percent both made it through high school and went on to complete college degrees or some other form of post-secondary education.

The program, called ScholarshipBuilder, dates back to 1988, when Merrill Lynch and the National Urban League partnered to “adopt” 25 first-graders in each of 10 big-city urban school districts around the U.S. The students were made a simple promise – graduate from high school, and the full costs of college would be paid. Merrill and Urban League staff and volunteers surrounded the children with tutoring, mentoring and cultural enrichment support for 12 years. The result: 90 percent graduated in 2000, nearly twice the average for their peers in similar circumstances.

Three years ago, a small group of former Merrill employees launched the ScholarshipBuilder Study and Reunion Project and, in collaboration with the Urban League, set out to locate the students and learn how they had fared.

Ultimately, 160 were located and more than half were surveyed or interviewed. From the data gathered, projections were made about overall results.

The newly released report, “The ScholarshipBuilder Children of 1988: How They Fared, Examining the Impact of a Unique Early-Intervention Academic Program on 250 Inner-City Children,” documents how the ScholarshipBuilder students fared; provides lessons learned for organizations contemplating such a program, and individual profiles of 27 of the students.

Among the results: l In 2000, 90 percent graduated from high school (vs. an approximate 48 percent in the peer group). l 88 percent of the graduating cohort entered some form of post-secondary education, vocational training or the military (vs. an estimated 55 percent among peers). l 66 percent chose four-year colleges, 16 percent community/twoyear colleges and 6 percent vocational training. l 84 percent of the graduating cohort completed some form of post-secondary education (vs. estimates ranging from 21 percent for urban graduates to 40 percent for all Black students graduating from high school).

THE PROGRAM, CALLED SCHOLARSHIPBUILDER, DATES BACK TO 1988, WHEN MERRILL LYNCH AND THE NATIONAL URBAN LEAGUE PARTNERED TO “ADOPT” 25 FIRST-GRADERS IN EACH OF 10 BIG-CITY URBAN SCHOOL DISTRICTS AROUND THE U.S. l 34 percent earned bachelor’s degrees, 24 percent master’s degrees, 11 percent associate degrees, 2 percent doctorates, 13 percent technical college or training. l Today, 93 percent are full-time employed.

“The ScholarshipBuilder Children of 1988: How They Fared” report, as well as a 30-minute documentary film, “A Chance to Win,” are available at scholarshipbuildernow.org. A virtual ScholarshipBuilder Reunion – attended by former students, their parents and families, Merrill Lynch and National Urban League current and former executives as well as former staff and volunteers from both organizations – was held on November 22; a replay is available on the website.

“The ScholarshipBuilder children faced a tremendous challenge in graduating,” said David H. Komansky, former chairman and CEO of Merrill Lynch. “With the help of their parents, teachers, mentors and so many community volunteers, they rose to the challenge. Now, it’s even more gratifying to see how well so many of them have done in college, careers and life.”

“I believe that if we continue to tell the story of ScholarshipBuilder, we can generate a new story about this so-called ‘lost population,’” said John Jacob, former president and CEO of the National Urban League. “If we can do this with 250 kids, America can do this with 250,000 kids.”

“The success rates for the ScholarshipBuilder children after high school were significantly higher than we had anticipated,” said Dr. Westina Matthews, former secretary, the Merrill Lynch Foundation; Paul Critchlow, former vice chairman, Bank of America Merrill Lynch; and Richard Meier, former Merrill Lynch videographer.

“The stories are heart-warming and – most important of all — ripe with lessons about the effectiveness of comprehensive, long-term and early-intervention educational support programs for children in low-income school districts.”

4 | CITIZEN | Chicago Weekend | Week of Dec. 16, 2020

BUSINESS

This page is sponsored by

Ideabar Awards $250K of In-Kind Services to The King Center through Empowering Equality Marketing Program The Martin Luther King, Jr. Center for Nonviolent Social Change (The King Center) has been awarded $250,000 of in-kind marketing services through “Empowering Equality,” a marketing program sponsored by Ideabar, a national marketing and media agency and Cox Enterprises company.

The King Center will receive a customizable scope of services, which could include research, brand development, a creative campaign, collateral design, website development and strategic business consulting.

“Awarding in-kind services through the Empowering Equality marketing program is one way our agency can take meaningful action to address racial inequality,” says Ideabar Managing Director Amy Royster Bridger. “We look forward to collaborating with The King Center on a powerful marketing program that advances their mission to prepare global citizens to create a more just, humane and peaceful world using Dr. King’s nonviolent philosophy and methodology.”

The King Center was selected from 10 finalists. The remaining nine organizations will receive a full-page print ad valued at up to $9,500 in The Atlanta Journal-Constitution to amplify the message of their choice in 2021. The nine finalists include Atlanta Wealth Building Initiative, Boys & Girls Club of Metro Atlanta, Cristo Rey Jesuit High School, Cxmmunity, National Center for Civil & Human Rights, Partnership for Southern Equity, Urban League of Greater Atlanta, West Atlanta Watershed Alliance and YWCA of Greater Atlanta.

The judges evaluated the submissions on the following criteria: l Advances racial equality and social justice to create a more equitable society by addressing systemic racial discrimination in areas such as education, employment, criminal justice, the environment, healthcare, voting, etc. (33.4%). l Articulates a powerful story of how the organization advances racial justice and social justice that can be amplified through the program’s in-kind marketing services (33.3%). l Is led by a racially/ethnically diverse executive leadership team and/or board (33.33%).

A final score based on evaluations by Ideabar employees, the panel of official judges and the results of the online community vote determined the winner.

The King Center, established in 1968 by Coretta Scott King, has been a global destination, resource center and community institution for more than a quarter century. The King Center is dedicated to ensuring that the King legacy not only remains relevant and viable, but is effectively leveraged for positive social impact.

Ideabar awarded its 2019 pro bono marketing program open to nonprofits in Palm Beach County, Florida to Loggerhead Marinelife Center, a world-renowned sea turtle hospital in Juno Beach, Florida. Ideabar awarded its 2020 pro bono marketing program open to Metro Atlanta environmental nonprofits to Chattahoochee Riverkeeper.

For more information, visit www.ideabar.agency.

The King Center, established in 1968 by Coretta Scott King, has been a global destination, resource center and community institution for more than a quarter century. The King Center is dedicated to ensuring that the King legacy not only remains relevant and viable, but is effectively leveraged for positive social impact. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. (pictured) gave his most famous speech, “I Have a Dream,” before the Lincoln Memorial during the 1963 March on Washington for Jobs and Freedom.

Condos Are Selling for a Record 17% Discount to Single-Family Homes as the Coronavirus Fuels Demand for Space The typical single-family home that sold in the U.S. this year was purchased for an average of 17.3% more ($58,000) than the typical condo, according to a new report from Redfin (www.redfin.com), the technology-powered real estate brokerage. That’s up from 15.4% last year and represents the largest premium since at least 2013, when Redfin began recording this data.

The U.S. housing market has been on fire this year, with record-low mortgage rates and remote work prompting scores of Americans to relocate. But the condo market has missed out on much of the gains as homebuyers have left dense cities in search of more space and privacy— AKA single-family homes—during the coronavirus pandemic.

The median sale price of singlefamily homes surged 15.5% year over year in October, outpacing the condo market’s 9.9% growth. Condos are also taking longer to sell—the typical condo spent 36 days on the market last month, compared with 27 days for the typical single-family home. And less than a quarter (22.8%) of condos sold for more than their listing price, compared with 36.6% of single-family homes.

Purchases of condos, however, have been catching up. “Condos

THE U.S. HOUSING MARKET HAS BEEN ON FIRE THIS YEAR, WITH RECORD-LOW MORTGAGE RATES AND REMOTE WORK PROMPTING SCORES OF AMERICANS TO RELOCATE. BUT THE CONDO MARKET HAS MISSED OUT ON MUCH OF THE GAINS AS HOMEBUYERS HAVE LEFT DENSE CITIES IN SEARCH OF MORE SPACE AND PRIVACY—AKA SINGLE-FAMILY HOMES— DURING THE CORONAVIRUS PANDEMIC.

The median sale price of single-family homes surged 15.5% year over year in October, outpacing the condo market’s 9.9% growth.

sales are rebounding because buyers are finding great deals,” said Redfin Chief Economist Daryl Fairweather.

“Families are fleeing cities in search of more space in the suburbs, which has presented an opportunity for millennials who are looking to become homeowners but don’t need extra bedrooms or a backyard.”

Florida and California Rank at the Top of the List When It Comes to Price Premiums for Single-Family Homes In the Fort Lauderdale, FL metropolitan area, single-family homes

sold for an average of 38.3% more than condos in October—the largest premium of the 86 metros in this analysis. It was followed by Bakersfield, CA, with a 35.8% premium, and Lakeland, FL, at 34.3%. Oklahoma City, OK and Tucson, AZ rounded out the top five, both at 30.3%.

In the Seattle metro, where singlefamily homes are selling for a 17.9% premium, condos are taking several months to sell rather than the usual couple of weeks, according Forrest Moody, a local real estate agent at Redfin. www.citizennewspapergroup.com

“Before the pandemic, it was challenging to find a condo in Seattle for less than $500,000, but now there are plenty selling for under $400,000.

The people who are buying condos now are the people who couldn’t afford to buy one a couple of years ago because prices were so high,” he said. “I recently sold a condo that was within walking distance of Amazon’s headquarters for $510,000.

Condos in that building normally go for $550,000 and up.”

There were just three metro areas where single-family homes sold for less than condos in October. San Antonio saw the biggest gap, with singlefamily homes going for 12.9% less than condos, followed by Omaha, NE (-6.2%) and Salt Lake City (-1.7%).

In San Antonio, there’s been a resurgence of high-end condos in the downtown area, according to Jim Seifert, a local real estate agent at Redfin.

“There are more people buying

condos in San Antonio than I’ve ever seen before,” Seifert said.

“Young people who work in tech and healthcare are moving here from Seattle, California, Washington, D.C. and Maryland because San Antonio is so much more affordable, and they have a bigger appreciation for downtown living than the average person from Texas.”

Seifert continued: “San Antonio’s condo market is also likely being fueled by the fact that buyers know they can get in. There’s a shortage of single-family homes for sale, but the supply of condos is growing like wildfire, so some folks are opting for condos because they don’t want to deal with a bidding war.”

To read the full report, including methodology and a full list of singlefamily home price premiums across major U.S. metro areas, please visit: https://www.redfin.com/news/singlefamily-home-premium-condo.

CITIZEN | Chicago Weekend | Week of Dec. 16, 2020

|

5

ENTERTAINMENT (RED) And Mavin Records Announce Partnership With New Single And Remix Competition On World AIDS Day, Africa’s most influential record label, Mavin Records, and (RED) joined forces to fight two pandemics: AIDS and COVID-19. Launched recently, the remix of the hit single “Jaiye” by Mavin Artist LADIPOE, features Aluna and Sigag Lauren, is available to stream and download worldwide, with proceeds going to support (RED)’s efforts to mitigate the impact of COVID-19 on lifesaving HIV/AIDS programs in sub-Saharan Africa. Doubling the impact, funds raised from every stream of the single will be matched by the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, up to $10,000.

The special “Jaiye” remix is a teaser to the Afrobeats-inspired DANCE (RED) SAVE LIVES Vol. III album that will be available on streaming services worldwide in early 2021.

LISTEN TO LADIPOE’S “JAIYE” REMIXED BY ALUNA AND SIGAG LAUREN [GO HERE: https://lnk.to/jaiye-remix “With everything that’s gone on in the world this year, we wanted to share a message of hope.

Yes, things are tough, but it’s important for us to appreciate the good times and to enjoy and celebrate with the people around us,” said Don Jazzy, founder and president, Mavin Records.

“In Africa, even in times of pain and uncertainty, music is a uniting force. I’m proud that we can use it to bring some lightness and

support an important cause at the same time,” Don Jazzy continued.

To coincide with the single release, Mavin Records and (RED) are offering Afrobeats fans the chance to be featured on the upcoming DANCE (RED) SAVE LIVES Vol. III by hosting a remix contest of LADIPOE’s, “Jaiye (Time of Our Lives).” To enter, anyone can download the track and post their remix of “Jaiye” to Instagram Reels using the hashtag #mavinRED. Submissions will be accepted now through January 7, with the best remix chosen

by Don Jazzy, Aluna, LADIPOE, Johnny Drille, and Mavin Records A&R Director, Rima Tahini.

TO DOWNLOAD THE TRACK & SHARE YOUR REMIX ON INSTAGRAM REELS USING #MavinRED - NOW THROUGH JANUARY 7, 2021, GO HERE: https:// mavinred.org Mavin and (RED) have partnered because COVID-19 is threatening to derail critical progress made in the AIDS fight. COVID-19 could cause AIDS-related deaths to double in the coming year as health and community systems are overwhelmed, treatment and prevention programs are disrupted, and resources are diverted throughout sub-Saharan Africa.

“We are proud that our biggest African

collaboration to date is with the incredible artists of Mavin Records and worldrenowned producer Don Jazzy. While times may be difficult, they have chosen to harness the power of music to help (RED) in our fight against AIDS and COVID-19. Our goal for this partnership is to have a significant impact on the global health systems that are in need of urgent support,” said Jennifer Lotito, (RED) president and chief operating officer.

The upcoming DANCE (RED) SAVE LIVES Vol. III will be curated by the legendary Afrobeats producer, Don Jazzy, and musical artist, Aluna. It will feature tracks by leading hitmakers and Mavin artists including Rema, Johnny Drille, and Crayon, and remixed by world-renowned DJs and producers including Don Jazzy himself. Proceeds from the album will go directly to the Global Fund’s COVID-19 Response in sub-Saharan Africa.

“Being a part of a project like this is incredible because it gives me the opportunity to showcase that dance music is black, which is something I’ve been discussing in the dance community and at the same time raise money for HIV and COVID-19. This project is going to bring people from all over the world together with dance music, which is what it was invented for, but for a long time has

just been about the white dance community exclusively. That’s gonna change and this project will show people how it’s done,” said Aluna, artist and co-curator of DANCE (RED) SAVE LIVES Vol. III. Both the single and the DANCE (RED) SAVE LIVES Vol. III album artwork were created by the Brooklyn-based Nigerian performance and visual artist, Laolu Senbanjo.

“I have developed a warm history with (RED) over time and I’m glad to be working with them again on a cause that’s affected all of humanity in such a visceral fashion. Despite the fact that the Coronavirus pandemic has aggressively unleashed itself on the world and claimed many casualties, it has also been another opportunity for humans to show how resilient we are,” Laolu said.

“It takes us coming together in unison to fight against such disease just like we did with HIV/AIDS. Organizations such as (RED) make it that much easier to do so with their remarkable programs. I’m happy to play a role that supports their laudable efforts.” *For the official Crowdsourcing Competition Terms & Conditions, GO HERE: https:// mavinred.org/terms. Must be 18 years or older to apply. Enter by January 7th at 11:59 PM PST. No purchase necessary.

Mariah Carey’s “All I Want For Christmas Is You” Gifts Much-Needed Holiday Cheer As #1 ASCAP Holiday Song In 2020 The holidays might look a little different this year, but The American Society of Composers, Authors and Publishers (ASCAP)’s top seasonal songs are bringing much-needed comfort and cheer to listeners at home.

With holiday music taking over the radio waves earlier than ever, ASCAP, a professional membership organization of songwriters, composers and music publishers, has announced the Top 25 ASCAP Holiday Songs of 2020 – a soundtrack to celebrate the most wonderful time of the year.

Mariah Carey’s “All I Want for Christmas Is You” (written by Carey and her fellow ASCAP songwriter Walter Afanasieff; published

by Universal Music Group

Publishing, Sony/ATV, Kobalt Music, Tamal Vista Music) takes the #1 spot as the mostplayed holiday hit, according to an ASCAP analysis of streaming and terrestrial radio data. Holiday music fans have made the joyous tune more popular every year; it consistently tops the Billboard Holiday 100 Chart and last year became the first holiday song to hit #1 on the Billboard Hot 100 since 1958.

Popularly dubbed the “Queen of Christmas,” Carey shared a special holiday message to fans about the song on @ ASCAP on Instagram, saying “I’m deeply grateful… and just so thankful that it is still bringing joy to so many people around the world and I know that we need that more than ever right now.”

“It’s never too early for holiday music. And now more than ever, the world needs to be reminded of the hopeful spirit of the season and the cherished memories that these classic songs inspire,” said ASCAP Chairman of the Board and President Paul Williams. “It is a true joy to celebrate the talented songwriters behind the music keeping the holiday season bright in these trying times.”

Below are the top 25 most played ASCAP holiday songs of 2020*, all written or co-written by ASCAP songwriters and composers.

Each song lists ASCAP songwriter credits and copyright date.

1. “All I Want for Christmas Is You” by Mariah Carey and Walter Afanasieff (1994)

2. “It’s Beginning to Look a Lot Like Christmas” by Meredith Willson (1951) 3. “A Holly Jolly Christmas” by Johnny Marks (1962) 4. “Sleigh Ride” by Leroy Anderson and Mitchell Parish (1948) 5. “Let It Snow, Let It Snow, Let It Snow” by Sammy Cahn and Jule Styne (1945) 6. “Jingle Bell Rock” by Joseph Carleton Beal and James Ross Boothe (1958) 7. “Rockin’ Around the Christmas Tree” by Johnny Marks (1958) 8. “Last Christmas” by George Michael (1984) 9. “It’s the Most Wonderful Time of the Year” by Edward Pola and George Wyle (1963) 10. “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas” by Ralph Blane and Hugh Martin

www.citizennewspapergroup.com

(1944) 11. “Winter Wonderland” by Felix Bernard and Richard B. Smith (1934) 12. “Santa Claus Is Comin’ to Town” by Fred Coots and Haven Gillespie (1934) 13. “White Christmas” by Irving Berlin (1941) 14. “Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer” by Johnny Marks (1949) 15. “The Christmas Song” by Mel Tormé and Robert Wells (1946) 16. “Here Comes Santa Claus (Down Santa Claus Lane)” by Oakley Haldeman and Gene Autry (1947) 17. “Home for the Holidays”

by Robert Allen and Al Stillman (1954) 18. “Feliz Navidad” by Jose Feliciano (1970) 19. “Happy Holiday/The

Holiday Season” by Kay Tompson and Irving Berlin (1942) 20. “Santa Baby” by Joan Javits, Anthony Springer and Philip Springer (1953) 21. “Frosty the Snowman” by Steve Nelson and Walter E. Rollins (1950) 22. “Jingle Bells” by James Lord Pierpont; Frank Sinatra version arranged by Gordon Jenkins (ASCAP, 1958) 23. “Underneath the Tree”

by Kelly Clarkson and Greg Kurstin (2013) 24. “You’re a Mean One, Mr. Grinch” by Dr. Seuss and Albert Hague (1966) 25. “Santa Tell Me” by Ariana Grande and Savan Kotecha (2013) *Based on an analysis of ASCAP streaming and terrestrial radio data

6 | CITIZEN | Chicago Weekend | Week of Dec. 16, 2020

NEWS

7 Tips for Hosting a Virtual Holiday Cookie Exchange StatePoint - It may take a little extra time and creativity, but a holiday cookie exchange can be held virtually and it’s worth the effort according to experts.

“There’s a famous quote, ‘If you do what you love, you’ll never work a day in your life.’ It’s so true for me as I find great joy in developing easy, flavorful recipes,” says Cindy Gilbert, McCormick Test Kitchen chef. “My friends have come to me for years requesting tips and tricks, and over 20 years ago, they anointed me the annual holiday cookie exchange leader. This past year has been challenging, but I knew I wanted to keep the tradition alive while following social distancing guidelines.”

Here are Gilbert’s top seven tips on hosting your own virtual cookie exchange, along with her favorite delicious McCormick cookie picks.

1. Keep the virtual guest list small and local. Your family and friends’ safety is the most important thing, and no one wants to bake a ton of cookies. Aim for five to 10 people.

Gingerbread Men Cookies – No winter holiday is complete without

Lemon extract adds a bright citrus flavor to this easy four-ingredient treat that starts with store-bought sugar cookies.

4. Arrange the exchange. About an hour before the virtual get-together, set up a table outside, in a cul-de-sac or school parking lot. Everyone can take turns grabbing their cookies quickly and safely. Or, arrange no contact porch drop-offs during a set time.

Holiday Meringue Cookies – These deliciously airy, light, and low-fat meringue cookies are the perfect confection for any holiday celebration. AddRegion: your favorite food Client: ComEd US Cindy Gilbert, McCormick Test Kitchen chef, shares her topBleed: seven tips on Print SECOND ROUND along with her favorite Trim: 10”delicious x 6.5” Language: coloring for a festive twist.English hosting Campaign: your ownOOH virtual cookie exchange, Agency Job #: B1241-021281-00 Live: None 5. Request theNotes: recipes.

Ask guests McCormick cookie picks.

AD #/AD ID: QEXL1054000 to provide a recipe card in their indiDate Modified: December 2, 2020 2:29 PM Keyline Scale: 100% CR: men. They’re cute and tioners’ sugar, andOutput the deep gingerbread at: chocovidual packages, or as the host, you AD Round: late, red color andPage: taste, add up to a can be decorated with raisins, cinnacan compile the recipes and share cookie you’ll be proud to share. mon red-hot candies or royal icing. through email.

NOT TO BE USED FOR COLOR APPROVAL 3. Package cookies in sepa2. Invite cookie enthusiasts. Invite Double Ginger Gingersnaps –A rate portions.

Ask participants to people who enjoy being in the kitchpersonal favorite of Gilbert’s, ACD: A. Del Valle CD: G. Apfelbach PC: M. Bilbrey / R. Swift P: C. Capola AM: L. Mitchell BM: E. Schmidt these package each serving in individual en and welcome sharing their recipe are a ginger lover’s dream! Ground containers or resealable bags of six secrets! Tell them they’re going to be ginger and crystallized ginger make sharing the story behind their choice. cookies per serving. the flavor pop on these cookies, Easy Lemon Cookie Truffles – Red Velvet Crinkle Cookies – This which are crispy on the outside and tasty recipe crinkles from the confec- This is a perfect no-bake option. chewy inside.

6. Share stories via video conference. Many guests like to tell the stories behind their cookies. By scheduling time to connect, you’ll likely hear some heartwarming or hilarious anecdotes and maybe even some helpful tidbits.

Sugar Cookie Thumbprints with Spiced Jam – Inspired by a bakery treat, this holiday twist on a classic uses cinnamon or ginger-spiced jam.

7. Have fun. Take time to ask how everyone has been and give them a chance to share what other traditions they’re planning this year. While the party is about cookies, it’s also about connecting, having fun and picking up a few new recipes to try.

Pecan Cookie Balls – These buttery melt-in-your-mouth cookies, also known as Mexican Wedding Cakes, make a great addition to any holiday cookie exchange.

Find these recipes and more by visiting McCormick.com/CookieExchange.

With a little creativity and the perfect cookie recipe, you can reinvent your favorite baking traditions for a safe and festive holiday season.

POWERING NEIGHBORS. EMPOWERING COMMUNITIES.

We power a city of neighborhoods. Whether through charitable contributions or sponsoring community initiatives in education, arts & culture and the environment, we’re proud to support the organizations and people that make each of Chicago’s neighborhoods a better place to live and work.

Learn more about grants and resources available to you or your organization at ComEd.com/CommunityPrograms www.citizennewspapergroup.com

104434_QEXL1054000_V2

Stronger Communities

T:10.75"

CITIZEN | Chicago Weekend | Week of Dec. 16, 2020

|

7

S:10.75"

Located inside your Walmart Supercenter on South Stewart, Walmart Health is here for you whether or not you have insurance. With upfront pricing and services provided by professionals invested in your community, Walmart Health Center gives the care you deserve at a price you can afford. Live better without spending more.

Stop in, visit WalmartHealth.com, or call 773.420.1259 to ďŹ nd out more about your Walmart Health Center and services available to you and yours.

8331 S Stewart Ave WALCO21043M7_10x13_AG_HealthCenter_Ad_v06.indd 1

11/19/20 4:09 PM

T:13"

S:13"

Welcome to your new Walmart Health Center, Auburn Gresham

8 | CITIZEN | Chicago Weekend | Week of Dec. 16, 2020

CITIZEN | Chicago Weekend | Week of Dec. 16, 2020

Moving forward as a community The pandemic and humanitarian crisis has brought us together with intensified passion and resilience. At Bank of America, we remain focused on supporting the well-being of our teammates, providing the essential financial services our clients need and helping local communities across the country move forward.

Here in Chicago, we’ve donated masks to local partners to distribute to those most at risk.

We’ve provided lending to local small businesses through the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) to help strengthen our local economy. And we continue to partner with local nonprofits and organizations that are working to advance racial equality and economic opportunity in the communities we serve.

We’re grateful for our employees, who have worked tirelessly to support our clients. And we are especially grateful to the healthcare and essential workers who have helped Chicago recover.

My teammates and I remain fully committed to the work to come in 2021 and beyond.

Paul Lambert Chicago Market President

Working together Grateful for our partners in Chicago who gave our community support when it needed it most.

126,000 PPE masks donated 7,810 PPP small business client loans totaling $691 million Bank of America employees

To learn more, please visit bankofamerica.com/community Bank of America, N.A. Member FDIC. Equal Credit Opportunity Lender. © 2020 Bank of America Corporation. All rights reserved.

|

9

10 | CITIZEN | Chicago Weekend | Week of Dec. 16, 2020

FASHION

BABOR “Breaking Boundaries” Scholarship Program Launched BABOR, a global leader in professional skincare, announced that they will fund four BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, and People of Color) esthetics scholarships administered by the non-profit Beauty Changes Lives for students interested in pursuing careers within the professional beauty industry.

Committed to its ongoing support of the professional spa business, the BABOR Breaking Boundaries Scholarship will shine a light on the vast job opportunities within the industry while advocating for an inclusive and diverse community. Each scholarship will be awarded to four BIPOC students previously unable to pursue their dreams of a career in spa esthetics.

“As a leader in the professional spa industry, we want to help pave the way for creating career opportunities and to facilitate

a very inclusive and diverse community,” says Tim Waller, CEO of BABOR BEAUTY GROUP AMERICAS. “Each scholarship recipient will be mentored by one of BABOR America’s very own expert estheticians, empowering these students with all the tools needed to become future stars of spa esthetics. We hope to inspire other members of the spa community to join forces and fund additional scholarship opportunities as well,” adds Waller.

Beauty Changes Lives is an advocate for diversity and inclusion in an industry long known for affirmation regardless of ethnicity, gender or sexual orientation. “The best path for bridging the talent gap in the spa sector is to create a larger and more inclusive talent pipeline,” says Lynelle Lynch, president of Beauty Changes Lives. She cited

a study published in leading spa publication Pulse, noting diverse teams often outperform their peers in terms of innovation and revenue growth. The article also noted that companies with diverse management teams were 35% more likely to achieve better financial performance than their peers.

BABOR’s investment in education is widely recognized within the international professional spa sector. “We commend BABOR for their investment in the future of the spa industry and hope their gift will encourage other organizations to support professional development programs for estheticians, massage therapists and other spa professionals,” says Lynne McNees, president of the International Spa Association (ISPA).

ISPA Board Chairman and Vice President Spa and Retail at

Montage International Patrick Huey echoes this sentiment, adding, “We at ISPA are excited to support BABOR and Beauty Changes Lives as they pursue positive change by supporting promising individuals who belong to groups too often under-represented in our industry.”

BABOR’s Breaking Boundaries scholarship will offer four full-tuition scholarships to under-represented students pursuing cosmetology or esthetic programs beginning Spring 2021.

In addition to tuition grants, Beauty Changes Lives provides networking opportunities via mentors and connections that have changed the lives of more than 600 beauty and wellness professionals. For additional information on the BABOR Breaking Boundaries scholarship, please visit babor.com.

New Black-Owned Fitness Brand CYCMODE Introduces an Immersive and Integrated Fitness Experience … and Its About to Get Real, Literally Inspired by cinema, music video experiences and interactive gaming, CYCMODE is a boutique group fitness studio offering multiple fitness offerings under one roof — indoor cycling, strength training, and yoga. Launching in January 2021, CYCMODE will offer up to eight live and live-stream workouts per day led by CYCMODE’s team of top fitness professionals.

CYCMODE believes a proper mindset (or #MODE) is key to achieving fitness goals.

From the moment a new member walks in the door, clients are instructed to define their “MODE.” Whether it’s #GetFitMODE, #BadassMODE, etc., CYCMODE wants clients to own their fitness journey by putting their #MODE to it.

The first-floor indoor cycling studio features 35 bikes and a wall-to-wall massive 60-foot-wide curved video screen set in a cycling theatre. Workouts such as THE TRIP™ give riders the sensation of climbing and sprinting through digitally created worlds paired with indoor cycling bikes that mimic a real bike, allowing riders to lean, turn and steer.

CYCMODE also offers themed fitness experiences such as its signature MUSIC VIDEO RIDES, which feature a CYCMODE Instructor and favorite music artists and videos — like Atlanta’s own Ludacris, Usher, TI, Migos, Future, Outkast and Ciara — to

CYCMODE

name a few. It is the ultimate immersive fitness party, with the added benefit of burning serious calories.

“Without experiencing it, when we mention we’re immersive, most clients

immediately envision we’re cycling wearing a VR headset. That’s not needed here. Once on the bike and with coaching from CYCMODE Instructors, riders are immediately swept into the workout experience and begin leaning into turns, ducking under bridges or doing power climbs to music videos like Cardi B, which adds even more intensity to an already powerful workout,” said Tasha White, founder/CEO. A separate multi-purpose studio on the mezzanine-level features a 40-foot-wide video screen and offers a variety of fitness MODES such as HIITMODE, YOGAMODE, and TEAMMODE. HIITMODE — a circuit workout designed to help participants get lean and toned using battle ropes, kettlebells, TRX, Smart Bars and more; YOGAMODE — an upbeat and uplifting yoga flow focused on enhancing endurance, strength and flexibility; and TEAMMODE — a virtual or in-studio corporate teambuilding experience that promotes individual well-being and creates an environment that fosters increased team effectiveness.

In-studio, digital, and on-demand fitness solutions are available for Atlanta-based and digital clients around the world and indoor cycling bikes are available for at-home purchase.

To learn more about CYCMODE fitness offerings and workout packages, visit www. cycmode.com.

www.citizennewspapergroup.com

Bevel Presents, “Created For Kings” Bevel is reminding the world that Black men deserve self-care too by introducing, “Created for Kings”, a new brand campaign commemorating the beauty, strength, and resilience of Black men.

Written by Walker and Company VP of Marketing, Tia Cummings, “Created for Kings” is a love letter to one of the most misunderstood and misrepresented segments of society.

Comprised of uplifting depictions of Black men across all walks of life, the campaign launches with a powerful message: Black man, you are seen. You are loved. You are a King.

“Created for Kings” is the latest of Bevel’s ongoing efforts to praise, protect and provide for Black men. The Bevel team has partnered with like-minded creatives to bring the “Created for Kings” campaign to life. First is Creative Theory, a Black-owned and operated creative agency and one of this year’s Ad Age ‘Agency of the Year’ winners. Spearheaded by Co-Founders, Gary Williams Jr. and Tamon George, Creative Theory is a collective of strategic visionaries helping brands to execute authentic cultural storytelling.

George said: “As an agency, we work with brands who see value in our community. Bevel has been one of the brands since the beginning who came with real perspective, understanding and attention to the Black male experience. “Created for Kings” is a reflection of that, and Creative Theory is incredibly grateful to have the opportunity to work with a brand that truly SEES our community.”

Also partnering in the campaign launch is New York Times best-selling author and NAACP Image Award Winner, Jason Reynolds, lending his soulstirring voice to a moving narration addressed directly to Black men. Layered atop a touching video compilation echoes Reynolds’ voice: “Dear Black man, we see you doing your best every day to survive…We are here to support you, uplift you, help you show up at your best every day, and remind you that you are a King.” These words are paired with uplifting images of everyday Black Kings – fathers, husbands, partners, entrepreneurs and everyday workers – reminding them and those that love them of their immeasurable value.

2020 has brought echoes of generational trauma to the forefront of global consciousness and conversations. Throughout the year, Bevel has taken a vocal position in support of Black men and the broader Black community by advocating for increased access to mental health resources, supporting distance learning and supporting the beauty and barber community in the face of COVID 19. Tia Cummings reflects on the importance of Bevel’s mission to honor Black men and push back against harmful stereotypes: “Bevel takes great pride in playing a lead role in shaping the narrative around Black men. It is our hope that this campaign will help drive a greater appreciation for the diversity, strength, and beauty of Black men, and serve as a point of pride for the Black community as a whole.” says Cummings.

Bevel invites you to participate in the “Created for Kings” campaign by sharing your own images and stories of Black men at their best. For more information on Bevel or the “Created for Kings” campaign, visit getbevel. com/kings or follow Bevel on Instagram.

CITIZEN | Chicago Weekend | Week of Dec. 16, 2020

|

11

12 | CITIZEN | Chicago Weekend | Week of Dec. 16, 2020

The all-new Hyundai ELANTRA. Tech-savvy, sleek and seriously dripping.

Designed for the young at heart, this sleek compact sedan offers a fully integrated tech experience with flavor you can savor right at your fingertips. Imagine a Digital Key that locks, unlocks, and starts your ride along with a 10.25-inch infotainment touchscreen. Mix in Dynamic Voice Recognition that allows you to roll down your windows, pop your trunk, and control the temperature with your voice. Suddenly you have an intuitive, tech-savvy car designed for better living without breaking the bank. Now that’s dripping.

Preproduction model shown with optional features. Near Field Communication (NFC) digital smartphone key requires a compatible Android smartphone and an appropriately equipped 2021 Elantra. Not all Android devices are compatible. The Elantra must be equipped with smart key with push button start, wireless device charging, and Audio Video Navigation System 5.0 (or newer) or Display Audio 2.0. Lock/unlock functionality works on driver’s door only. See your Owner’s Manual for details and limitations. Dynamic Voice Recognition varies by unit. Speak in a normal voice and minimize background noise for best results. See Owner’s Manual for details and limitations. Hyundai is a registered trademark of Hyundai Motor Company. All rights reserved. ©2020 Hyundai Motor America.