Committee on Finance
WHEREAS, a woman born in the U.S. today has an estimated 1 out of 8 chance of being diagnosed with breast cancer over the course of her lifetime; and
WHEREAS, the diagnosis of breast cancer, as is any diagnosis of cancer, is a highly emotional experience affecting the entire family; with many devoting countless hours to fundraise for various legitimate not-for-profits to help those fighting this dreadful disease and searching for a cure; and
WHEREAS, the corporate authorities of the City of Chicago are committed to protecting Chicago residents from fraud, deception, and unfair business practices; and
WHEREAS, on November 27, 2012 and December 1, 2012, the Chicago Sun-Times reported on the questionable business practices of Boobies Rock!, Inc., a for-profit corporation that holds itself out as one of the leading advocates for the awareness of breast cancer across the U.S.; and
WHEREAS, according to reports, Boobies Rock! has collected thousands of dollars selling merchandise outside Chicago sports venues and at bar and nightclub events; and
WHEREAS, Boobies Rock! claims to support several breast cancer awareness charities, some of which allege the claims of support are false and misleading; and
WHEREAS, several charities identified by Boobies Rock! as "non-profit affiliates" reported receiving nothing or very little in donations from the company; and
WHEREAS, according to reports, Boobies Rock! allegedly instructed its promotional models not to use the word "sell" and that they were seeking "donations" for a "breast cancer awareness promotion"; and
WHEREAS, a number of "sellers" of Boobies Rock! merchandise were reportedly surprised to learn they were not working for a not-for profit organization; and
WHEREAS, a preliminary search revealed that Boobies Rock! has not secured a business license or permit authorizing it to operate in the City of Chicago; and
WHEREAS, pursuant to Section 2-25-090 of the Municipal Code of Chicago ("Code"), ...
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