GLENWOOD DID YOU KNOW... - JULY 2025 (4TH OF JULY)

JULY 2025

ISSUE # 7

GLENWOOD GLENWOOD

DID YOU KNOW...

II N NS S II D DE E T TH H II S S II S SS SU UE E CELEBRATING CONSTITUTIONAL HERITAGE FREDERICK DOUGLASS & THE FOURTH OF JULY TH JUNETEENTH & 4TH OF JULY FESTIVITIES

SCHOLARSHIP & EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES

PROJECT NEHEMIAH/PROJECT KANDOR GROUNDBREAKING CEREMONY www.glenwooddidyouknow.com

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CELEBRATING CONSTITUTIONAL HERITAGE & AFRICAN AMERICANS CONTRIBUTIONS At the February 6, 2024 village meeting, I shared with (then) Mayor Ron Gardiner that several surrounding cities and villages recognized and scheduled events celebrating Black History Month. I expressed disappointment that Glenwood, a village that is over 70% African American, did not have any events scheduled to recognize the contributions of residents to the town and society, therefore; I created this newsletter to highlight as many as possible in this and future issues as well as other community concerns.

- Deborah Birmingham, M.Ed., M.A

Every year on the Fourth of July, the United States of America celebrates its independence—a time to reflect on the ideals of freedom, justice, and equality. For generations, programs like Schoolhouse Rock have played an important role in helping students understand key elements of our democracy: the Declaration of Independence, the Constitution, the Bill of Rights, the three branches of government— Legislative, Executive, and Judicial—and how laws are made.

Yet today, these principles are under renewed scrutiny. There is growing concern about the erosion of rights guaranteed under the U.S. Constitution—such as due process, birthright citizenship, and equal protection under the law. The weakening or removal of these rights doesn’t just impact policy—it puts lives and livelihoods at risk.

Equally alarming is the continued erasure of African American contributions to the nation’s military and civic life. From the very beginning of America’s struggle for independence, Black men and women have fought valiantly for the freedoms that many still do not fully enjoy. Crispus Attucks, a Black man, is widely recognized as the first martyr of the American Revolution. Brave patriots like Peter Salem, Titus Coburn, Salem Poor Seymour Burr, and Peter Hunter stood on the front lines in the fight for liberty—demonstrating courage, skill, and an unwavering commitment to a better nation.

One of today’s most significant examples is General Lloyd J. Austin III, a retired four-star general and the first African American to serve as U.S. Secretary of Defense. With a distinguished career spanning over four decades, General Austin has held top command positions, including leading U.S. Central Command. His leadership, discipline, and dedication to service represent the highest standards of American excellence. As Secretary of Defense, he not only shaped military strategy but also worked to ensure that equity, inclusion, and the value of diverse voices are at the core of national defense. His presence in this historic role is a testament to the progress made— and a call to continue pushing forward.

Their sacrifices—and those of countless others—must not be forgotten. Honoring their legacy means continuing the fight for justice in housing, fair wages, quality health care, and equal dignity under the law.

Juneteenth, now a national holiday, marks the end of slavery in the United States. It is a powerful reminder that freedom was delayed for millions, and that the struggle for equality continues. Celebrating Juneteenth alongside Independence Day allows us to tell a fuller, more honest American story—one that includes the resilience, resistance, and achievements of African Americans who have shaped this country at every turn.

In this critical time in U.S. history, we must read, teach, and uphold the Constitution, the Bill of Rights, and the hard-won freedoms they represent. We must make sure our children and communities understand these foundational documents—and the essential role African Americans have played in making the United States a nation striving toward its highest ideals. Only then can we ensure that our country remains a beacon of hope, justice, and opportunity for all.

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Reflecting on Freedom

"What, To The Slave, Is The Fourth of July?"

– Frederick Douglass and the Fourth of July On July 5, 1852, Frederick Douglass delivered a fiery, unforgettable speech at Corinthian Hall in Rochester, New York —a bold and urgent call to conscience titled “What to the Slave is the Fourth of July?” This timeless oration challenges us even today to examine the meaning of freedom, justice, and American ideals.

A Celebration... But for Whom?

Douglass didn’t mince words: “This Fourth of July is yours, not mine. You may rejoice, I must mourn.” While America celebrated independence, millions remained in chains. He praised the courage of the Founding Fathers but exposed the painful paradox of a nation built on liberty while denying it to so many.

A Fire, Not a Gentle Shower Douglass called for more than polite reform. He demanded urgency and truth: “It is not light that is needed, but fire.”

His message was—and still is—a thunderclap: Freedom means nothing if it is not shared by all.

Why It Still Matters Frederick Douglass's words are not relics of history—they are blueprints for action: Shared History – True freedom comes when all voices are included.

Speak with Conviction – We can honor America while holding it accountable.

Education Empowers – Knowledge and clear expression are powerful tools.

Persistent Advocacy – Justice isn’t a moment—it’s a movement.

Injustice Anywhere Hurts Us All – Silence and indifference are not neutral.

Take Action: Learn, Reflect, Speak Up As we gather for Independence Day, let’s not just celebrate the fireworks—let’s ignite a deeper dialogue. Let’s educate ourselves, challenge inequities, and continue the work of building a nation that truly lives up to its founding promises.

This July, don’t just wave the flag—stand for justice. Start conversations in our community. Share Douglass’s speech.

Discuss what freedom means today.

Because democracy isn’t finished. It’s up to us to keep building.

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JUNETEENTH 2025

GLENWOOD DID YOU KNOW...

Issue # 7

Glenwood Celebrates Juneteenth in Grand Style

FUN, CULTURE, AND COMMUNITY—RAIN OR SHINE! Congratulations to Mayor Toleda Hart, Leon Fields, and the Events Planning Committee for hosting an inspiring and fun-filled Juneteenth celebration that truly brought the community together!

Despite the heavy rain earlier in the day, Glenwood residents showed unwavering determination—not letting the weather dampen their spirits or their desire to learn and honor the importance of Juneteenth. Cook County Commissioner Donna Miller, along with other elected officials and community members, gathered at the historic Underground Railroad Memorial site to officially kick off the celebration. Their presence underscored the significance of this powerful day of remembrance and freedom.

When the sun finally returned, so did the energy and joy. Families, friends, and even former students —now raising a new generation of Glenwoodians—filled the park with laughter, love, and pride. The celebration featured incredible performances and cultural displays from our very own local talent: artists Leroy McCray, Jenaya Cole, Ambria Hughes, Jean Lewis, and Wasi Young. The Jesse White Tumblers and 907 Dance Studio amazed the crowd with their high-energy performances, while food trucks and local vendors provided delicious bites and unique shopping experiences.

Thank you to all who attended, participated, and persevered.

Rain or shine, Glenwood showed up—and showed out!

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GLENWOOD -- RICH GLENWOOD RICH ART ART HISTORY HISTORY && CULTURE CULTURE

Ambria Hughes Artist & Ms. Black Heartland 2025

Jenaya Cole Awarding Winning Artist

The picture is from an advertisement that appeared in the Glenwood Village Newsletter Spring of 1999.

-Leon Fiields

Jean Lewis Award Winning Artist

Art collector & Art seller

Leroy McCray Author & Award Winning Artist

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Y L Y I L I M M A F A F A A R I R I A F A F F F A A SPOTLIGHT ON WASI, CHARLES & CHENO

This Juneteenth, community members were treated to a joyful, rhythmic debut performance by a family trio: Wasi, his brother-in-law Charles, and nephew Cheno.

While they’ve shared music informally at home for years, this was their first public performance together, and it was electric.

The group plays African djembes—drums known for their deep cultural roots and vibrant, three-tone rhythms (bass, tone, and slap). Wasi, a self-taught drummer, has learned by observing and collaborating with other skilled musicians. He now teaches the next generation through educational workshops and informal jam sessions.

FAMILY RHYTHMS A Juneteenth Drum Circle Debut

Charles credits Wasi as an excellent teacher who introduced him to the drum’s nuances. Cheno shared how he involves his grandkids and neighborhood kids in music-making with cowbells, triangles, and, of course, drums.

For this family, music is more than sound—it’s tradition, healing, and celebration., Wasi says, “This is who I am. I love it.”

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JUNETEENTH

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JUNETEENTH

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Mayor Toleda Hart - Juneteenth interview Your Voice Matters!

If you attended, your feedback helps make future events even better by completing the short event survey. Your thoughts and suggestions are vital to planning more meaningful community celebrations.

Juneteenth Survey 9

GLENWOOD DID YOU KNOW...

VICTORY APOSTOLIC CHURCH

JUNETEENTH LUNCHEON CELEBRATING FREEDOM AND COMMUNITY

What a beautiful celebration of freedom, heritage, and community spirit! Linda Tatum, our treasured neighbor and dedicated Glenwood/Lynwood Library Trustee, along with her fellow church members at Victory Apostolic Church, created something truly special with their spectacular Juneteenth luncheon. The moment you stepped into the church vestibule, you were embraced by the warm glow of vibrant Juneteenth decorations that set the perfect tone for this meaningful gathering. The air was filled with the rich aromas of traditional soul food as friends and neighbors came together to share not just a meal, but a profound piece of American history. Throughout the event, guests were treated to powerful presentations that brought history to life through heartfelt sharing, moving poetry, compelling dramatizations, and soul-stirring songs. Juneteenth, celebrated on June 19th, marks one of the most significant moments in American history when enslaved African Americans in Galveston, Texas, finally learned of their freedom in 1865—two and a half years after the Emancipation Proclamation was signed. This delay reminds us that freedom is not just declared, but must be claimed and celebrated.

The resilience of our ancestors flows through our veins today, inspiring us to dream bigger and reach higher. Their courage in the face of unimaginable challenges laid the foundation for every opportunity we have today, from the cotton fields to the boardrooms, from the back of the bus to the halls of Congress. As we look toward the future, we carry forward their unwavering spirit as today's African American community continues to break barriers in technology, medicine, education, arts, and leadership. We stand on the shoulders of those who came before us, climbing higher so that future generations can reach even greater heights. Churches and community organizations like Victory Apostolic Church serve as the beating heart of our neighborhoods—places where we gather not just to worship, but to remember, celebrate, and strengthen one another. These sacred spaces have always been cornerstones of the African American experience, from the Underground Railroad to the Civil Rights Movement to today's continued fight for justice and equality.

As we face new challenges in our ever-changing world, we do so with the knowledge that we are not alone. We carry the wisdom of our ancestors, the support of our community, and the hope of future generations. Events like this Juneteenth luncheon remind us that our accomplishments are worth celebrating, our history is worth remembering, and our community is worth investing in. They create spaces where young and old can come together, where stories are passed down, and where the bonds that hold us together are strengthened.

Congratulations to Linda Tatum and all the wonderful members of Victory Apostolic Church for creating such a meaningful and memorable Juneteenth celebration. Your dedication to sharing our history, fostering fellowship, and building community bridges reminds us all of the power we have when we come together—honoring the past, celebrating the present, and building the future one gathering, one story, one shared meal at a time.

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GLENWOODDIDYOUKNOW...

BROKEN ARROW HORSEBACK RIDING FATHER’S DAY 2025

CLUB

MURDOCK & BROKEN ARROW HORSEBACK RIDING CLUB RODEO What an incredible Father's Day celebration we had at The South Shore Cultural Center! The crowd was absolutely electric as Murdock's Broken Arrow Horseback Riding Club delivered a spectacular rodeo performance that had families, friends, and neighbors cheering from the stands. From seasoned riders showcasing their expert horsemanship to the youngest participant—an amazing 2-year-old who truly embodied the spirit of "train up a child"—every moment was filled with pure excitement and joy!

The day became even more meaningful with a heartfelt tribute to the legendary Buffalo Soldiers. These brave African American soldiers were established by Congress as the first all-black Army regiments in peacetime, serving with extraordinary courage on the western frontier after the Civil War. Originally formed as the 9th and 10th Cavalry and the 24th and 25th Infantry regiments, their legacy of honor and determination continues to inspire us today. What a perfect way to celebrate both exceptional horsemanship and the heroes who helped shape our nation's history—Yeehaw indeed!

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Dr. Nicole Bing GSU Ghana Public Health Brigade St. Anthony Basic Catholic School in Ekumpoano, Ghana

Still processing all that was our 2025 Public Health Brigade to Ghana.

♥️🖤💚🌍

🇬🇭

May 30th-June 3rd, Days 1 - 5 on ground in Ghana Two weeks ago, our Brigaders were busy learning and serving in Ekumpuano. They had walked the entire community learning the landscape, history of water and sanitation projects, and progress since engagement with Global Brigades. More importantly, they learned about the people of Ekumpoano who they would be serving alongside. They met beneficiary families and greeted residents and local school children. They learned about work in the community and helped bring in fishing nets with local fishermen. They learned about religious practices in the community and were welcomed into three church services (yes, 3!! we were definitely prayed up and prayed for!!). And, yes, that's us singing in church (we've got talent!!!

GSU PUBLIC HEALTH BRIGADE In the summer of 2019, GSU was able to refocus on the public health aspect of the service-learning experience and brought students to Ghana for the first time on a Public Health Brigade. The brigade incorporated experiential learning course content, and examined the relationship between the Transatlantic Slave Trade and Mass Incarceration in America.

In May 2023 GSU Public Health Brigade Team asked Math with EEEs, Inc., to partner with us to supply school supplies, teaching materials, and hygiene products to the school children in Ekumpoano, Ekumfi District, Ghana. It came through in such a significant way. We arrived in Ghana with 20 suitcases full of materials. .

In June, 2025, thanks to Blackboard Solar, Glenwood Academy, GSU and Math with EEEs, Inc. supporters, Dr. Nicole Bing STEM /Public Health Brigade will return to further enhance university students' servicelearning abroad as they empower the school children of Ekumpoano, Ekumfi District.

In every space that our GovState Brigaders occupied, they were respectful, kind, curious, and open. We could not have been prouder of the way that our Brigaders showed up seeking knowledge, connection, and collaboration. We hope that you are proud of them, too.

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My journey began when Shanetta Cowgur invited me to go to Ghana . She had traveled to Ghana twice with Dr. Bing.

I am a retired social worker from Brookwood School District 167. I love to travel and learn about different cultures. In June /2025 I got the opportunity to travel to Ghana West Africa. It was one of the best trips of my lifetime. It was wonderful, rewarding and very emotional at times.

Due to the generosity of Dr.

Enslaved Africans were Nicole Brown-Bing and Dr. M. herded to this river to Cummings I was able to tour have their last bath

Ghana today. It is a beautiful

sites such as the Elmina and

have the strength and

before being marched

Cape Coast Castles and many down to the castles. The others with Governors State castles evoked emotions University and the Ghana

of anger and sorrow for

brigades. It was very

what these enslaved

emotional for me at the Assin ancestors had to endure.

Manso Slave and River Site.

Then I thought about the They welcomed us back

strength and resilience of

home. You can read about

the ancestors who

history in a book or on the

survived. I am here

I left with hope as I see country! The Ghanaian people resilience of the ancestors.

They are brilliant, creative, culturally rich and hospitable people. I look forward to returning again.

Joyce Johnson-James

internet, but to be standing in because of them. I was the very river where this able to return to their history took place is a

ancestral home and I am

transformative experience.

grateful to God for the opportunity.

I Survived The Kakum Canopy Walkway - 7 Suspension Bridges

Cape Coast Castles

and lave nso S a M Site.

Assin

River

Dr. Nico le BingGSU Pub lic Health B rigade

The power of remaining calm as two monkeys jumped on my shoulder while walking through Kakum National Park.

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EE dd w w ii nn K K ii nn gg President President President Brookwood Brookwood Point Brookwood Point Point Homeowners Homeowners Association Homeowners Association Association

Greetings Brookwood Point and Glenwood residents, It is with support that we have been able to accomplish initiatives and ensure our collective voices are heard.

Glenwood has a rich history built on community investment and community involvement. We are at a point in time where it is imperative that we remain involved. Political and cultural changes dictate that if ever there was a time to get involved, that time is now. Legacy is important, and if we are going to continue Glenwood's rich history, we cannot allow complacency to continue to take a front seat. I solicit your continued involvement and challenge you to invite a friend and a neighbor to get actively involved.

Homeowner association meeting is a good place to initiate involvement. Each association meets monthly and it's a forum where we can share ideas to improve our community and collectively address any concerns we may have. If you have ideas that you think will make the Homeowners meeting more productive, please let us know.

Collectively our voices can make a difference, but apathy and complacency will be a silent killer to our community.

Respectfully, Edwin King Brookwood Point 1st Wednesday of the month @ Hickory Glen Fieldhouse - 7PM

Village Village Hall meeting 7PM Village Hall Hall meeting meeting 7PM 7PM 1st 1st & 3rd Tuesday of the Month 1st & & 3rd 3rd Tuesday Tuesday of of the the Month Month Glenwood Manor 1st Thursday of the month @ Arquilla Park Fieldhouse - 7PM

Glenwood Estates 2nd Wednesday of the month @ Arquilla Park Fieldhouse 7PM

Click this link for all Glenwood Village Ordinances Click to buy: Robert's Rule of Order

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SPRING CHECKLIST SPRING CHECKLIST & & GARDENING GARDENING IDEAS IDEAS

Click on Glenwood Village ordinances

Click on Flower and Plant ideas

Sec11.04 - Area, display, illumination and content of signs Sec. 110-31. - Noxious weeds prohibited; declared a nuisance 15

BE B EA AU UT T II F F II C CA AT T II O ON N -- C C .. U U .. P. P. P. P.

CLEAN C L E A N UP UP PAINT PAINT

PLANT PLANT

Let’s work together with our neighbors in beautifying our home, block, and community.

Share some of your perennials Volunteer to plant flowers Give gardening tips.

Attend homeowners association meetings Share photos of beautification project BEAUTIFICATION AWARD WINNERS WILL BE ANNOUNCED IN JULY.

Click the link Why Gardening is Good for Mental Health 16

C l i c k

t h i s

l i n k

f o r

a l l

G l e n w o o d V i l l a g e O r d i n a n c e s

Sec. 62-328. Prohibited conduct.

NO FIRE WORKS Sec. 38-32. afe 4th of s a Ju Enumeration of e v ly prohibited Ha noises.

4 e 4 f e t 4 f e t h f a t h a h a s s o s o o a f a f a f J J e J e e u u v u v v l l a l a a y y y H HH Chapter 10ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGES Sec. 10-72.

Parental responsibility

Sec. 102-33. Obedience to police officers

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BRING LAWN BRING LAWN CHAIRS CHAIRS

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THANK YOU WILLIE WALTERS FOR YEARS OF JOY TO THE COMMUNITY LIGHTING UP THE FOURTH OF JULY PARADE WITH YOUR 1930s MODEL 8 CARS

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ENERGY

David Jones is a technologist, polymath, inventor and CEO of Lumena Energy, a U.S. based Energy-As-A-Service software platform.

David is a nationally recognized industry leader in Renewable Energy and a pioneer in Virtual Power Plant technology. He is a recipient of the 2019 Google Innovation Award. He received his MBA from Massachusetts Institute of Technology.

David N. Jones, MBA, CEM

With more than 20 years experience as a technologist, he continues to innovate and push boundaries in his field and accelerate the adoption and proliferation of cleantech on a global level.

PROJECT NEHEMIAH/PROJECT KANDOR GROUNDBREAKING CEREMONY We will break ground on our smart city tech co-op in Ford Heights, IL. Project Nehemiah: The project aims to create jobs, provide training opportunities, and revitalize the community through innovative housing and technology solutions Groundbreaking: JULY 2025

Groundbreaking: JULY 11, 2025

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact: Lumena Energy Public Affairs Email: david@lumenaenergy.com Phone: (312) 320-0948 Mr.Jones or (773) 996-3333 Mr.Pittman Groundbreaking Ceremony Announced for Smart City Pilot in Ford Heights, IL FORD HEIGHTS, IL – July 11, 2025 – Lumena Energy, in partnership with Project Nehemiah LLC, civic leaders and community stakeholders, will host the official groundbreaking ceremony for Project Nehemiah / Project Kandor, a visionary smart city pilot program aimed at transforming Ford Heights into a global model for sustainable development, technological innovation, and community regeneration. Phase 1 is affordable housing for single families.

The event will take place on Thursday, July 11th at 10:00 AM at 1209 Lexington Avenue, Ford Heights, IL. Project Kandor is the result of a four-year collaboration between David N. Jones, Founder and CEO of Lumena Energy, and the University of Chicago and other academic institutions. Project Nehemiah sustainable homes is the result of a collaboration between Lieutenant Colonel Lionel O. Pittman, Rahman Polk, and David N. Jones, longtime advocates for community advancement and veteran leadership. Together, they have laid the groundwork for a transformative smart campus that will integrate renewable energy, green infrastructure, workforce development, housing innovation, and advanced AI technologies.

“This groundbreaking is more than the start of construction—it’s the start of hope,” said David N. Jones. “We’re building a living, breathing demonstration of what is possible when you invest in people, purpose, and place. Ford Heights deserves to be seen—not for what it was, but for what it can lead the world to become.”

The Project Kandor campus will include a geodesic dome centerpiece, off-grid AI data centers, container-based smart housing, vertical farms, a startup accelerator, and an energy workforce training hub. The site will also serve as a cultural and technological destination for international visitors seeking inspiration in real-world sustainability and resilience.

Media, partners, community members, and public officials are encouraged to attend.

For more information, visit www.lumenaenergy.com or email info@lumenaenergy.com.

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David N. David N. Jones Jones hosted hosted the the AI Empowerment AI Empowerment Summit.

Summit.

He also He also debuted debuted a a brand brand new Lumena new Lumena Energy Energy product! product!

Hear from Hear from some some industry industry experts and experts and prepare prepare yourself for yourself for the the imminent imminent arrival of arrival of the the future future of of Artificial Intelligence.

Artificial Intelligence.

Check it Check it out out on on YouTube.

YouTube.

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AGROBOTICS ADVENTURE YOUTH SUMMIT

Aquaponics - Calvin Young The Agrobotics Adventure: Youth Summit where young minds (8-17 years old) explore the future of agriculture and technology together.

Youth Summit is all about constructing and programming agricultural robots. It’s an immersive event featuring robot demonstrations, interactive sessions, and a hands-on robot-building workshop.

Urban Farming - Singapore students Plant Fuel Lab- Augustine Verciglio

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S S T T E E M M

C C II T T Y Y Check out our website for more information on our FREE STEM programming for MS & HS students, including in-school, after-school and summer programs.

Bernard Key

Checkout the video links

STEM CITY Chicago Metaverse Creator

STEM CITY METAVERSE

Students continue to reach new heights exploring the exciting world of STEM. Bernard’s exciting approach has earned his students and programs awards and recognition.

Freedom School Solar Technology

Bloom H.S. Award Winning JROTC Girls Esports Team NASCAR Street Race Esports Summer Camp

Freedom School Engineering Team

STEM City Chicago is revolutionizing education through Solar Punk innovation! We're thrilled to announce our latest student-led project: The Smart Solar Safety Jacket! Our brilliant Melanated Solar Punk students are designing wearable tech that combines sustainability with community safety. What makes this jacket special?

Imagine a computer school jacket powered by solar, equipped with HD cameras, GPS tracking, and WiFi connectivity – all running on a Raspberry Pi brain!

This isn't just fashion; it's the future of protective wear designed by our Afro Solar Punks, for our community. Rethinking STEM marks the beginning of this exciting journey. Students will learn hands-on skills in: • Solar power engineering • IoT programming • Wearable tech design • Environmental sustainability

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CALLING ALL STEMM PROFESSIONALS

WE NEED YOU TO

VOLUNTEER

At our excitingNetworkingNights&makealastingimpacton aspiring high school students eager to follow in your footsteps.

What to expect:

Get readytoengage with curious students who want to know: What did you study in college?

What does your career path look like?

How much schooling did it take?

What kind of compensation can they expect in your field?

PLUS: You get to network too!

Join us!

7p to 9p

To sign up click here!

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THE STORY OF THE BUFFALO SOLDIERS “WE CAN, WE WILL” “READY and FORWARD”

They were ex-slaves and freedmen, banded together to become the first line of defense on the Great Western Plains. They scouted and charted unfamiliar territory, delivered mail as riders of the famous Pony Express, and then settled into quiet obscurity within our nation’s history.

They were the Buffalo Soldiers. They were named by the Cheyenne Warriors for their naturally curly hair, which resembled the coat of the buffalo; and for their ferocious fighting spirit, which Would Not Allow Them To Ever Give Up Or Retreat.

The original units of the Buffalo Soldiers, formed in 1866, after the Civil War, were the segregated units of the 9th and 10th Cavalries. Though an Executive Order was issued in 1948 desegregating the troops, units of Buffalo Soldiers were still recorded as late at 1951, during the Korean War. Recently, acts of bravery and heroism performed by these “ALL BUT INVISIBLE” men have begun to surface from the footnotes of military annals. Several medals have been posthumously awarded, and acknowledgement has been given to the Buffalo Soldiers for their part in the development and preservation of this and other nations.

For more information :Buffalo Soldiers Tribute & The Proud Legacy of the Buffalo Soldiers

B U F F A L O S O L D I E R S J U L Y 2 8 T H

D A Y

BUFFALO SOLDIERS DAY

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BOOK RECOMMENDATIONS

MARY DEBOSE

Avid reader Book club Member

Fun Summer Reading In My Shoes: Living while Colored, Negro, Black, African American Follow the racial encounters of an average Black man, Leroy McCray from childhood to manhood from education to the workplace

The Man Who Loved Books Too Much: The True Story of a Thief, a Detective, and a World of Literary Obsession is a 2009 non-fiction book by American journalist and author Allison Hoover Bartlett. The book chronicles the crimes of John Charles Gilkey, a book collector who utilized check and credit card fraud to steal a number of rare manuscripts and first editions from dealers

A Trip to the Kids Exploration Music Museum. This heartwarming tale celebrates family bonds, musical discovery, and the joy of learning through adventure.

Perfect for young readers and music enthusiasts alike, Struck: Born from the Storm tells the story of a special kind of lightning storm, one that strikes only occasionally-and strikes only Black men and women. Some of those struck turn their newfound abilities to the service of Black people and humanity as a whole.

Others use their powers for evil.

Either way, their stories all influence the world...

A powerfully constructed narrative, “Lovely One” focuses on Justice Jackson's life before the spotlight and illustrates her journey to become the first Black woman in the U.S. Supreme Court.

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The Ezekiel Taylor Scholarship Foundation is a nonprofit organization positively impacting the lives of Black male students in the Chicago area. together, We Can Give Young Black Males a Brighter Future The Ezekiel Taylor Scholarship Foundation (ETSF) is a nonprofit that provides college scholarships, mentorship and life skill programming to African-American male students from the Chicago area, impacted by gun violence, who attend, or seek to attend, an accredited college, university or trade school.

About - Ezekiel Taylor Scholarship Foundation - Tickets Mission To ensure African-American men lead better lives and have opportunities for higher education.

Vision To better strengthen the opportunity for growth of young African-American men in Chicago through education, exposure, mentorship and social/emotional support. Through the activities of the Ezekiel Taylor Scholarship Foundation, we provide college funding to support their education and provide lifeskills to help them create a better life for themselves and the communities they live in.

Our Story In 1982 Ezekiel Taylor was robbed and killed on the south side of Chicago. He was a 34-year-old husband, a father, a son, a brother, an uncle, a friend. His life was violently snatched by ruthless teenagers. The senseless gun violence that plagued Chicago 4 decades ago, continues to haunt the city today.

Ezekiel Taylor’s legacy lives on through his only child, Tenisha Taylor. Tenisha, a former CNN executive, is a graduate of St. Martin De Porres High School in Chicago. She earned a Bachelor of Arts degree from Clark Atlanta University and a Master’s of Public Administration from Kennesaw State University. With a media career that spans more than 20 years, Tenisha now uses her influence to invest in youth development.

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CAREER OPPORTUNITIES Scholarships Internships Various areas of employment

Click for Career opportunities

Click for Career opportunities

Click for Scholarship information

CPASS APPLICATION

Click for Career opportunities

Click for Career opportunities

Click to Find Scholarships for College

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ComEd Customer Relief Fund ComEd is joining with Neighborhood Housing Services of Chicago (NHS) and the Salvation Army to launch the ComEd Customer Relief Fund, a one-time program to support eligible ComEd customers experiencing higher energy costs during peak usage summer months and the months ahead. The $10 million ComEd Customer Relief Fund is made possible through one-time charitable contributions to NHS and the Salvation Army from Exelon, ComEd’s parent company.

Beginning July 7, eligible ComEd customers will be able to apply for relief through NHS and the Salvation Army, our partners who specialize in providing assistance to communities in our area.

How to Apply and Eligibility Beginning July 7, residential customers with past-due balances who are at or below 300 percent of the Federal Poverty Level may qualify for grants up to $500. Qualified 501(c)3 nonprofit organizations with past-due balances may qualify for grants up to $1,000. To learn more and apply, customers can visit www.comed.com/relief for step-by-step guidance.

Energy Affordability with ComEd ComEd customers are bearing the brunt of increasing energy supply costs as demand rises and supply is not there to meet it. While ComEd does not control energy supply costs, the company is committed to advocating for customers and working to find solutions with those who do control these costs. We recognize that any increase in household expenses can be difficult. We take seriously our responsibility to help keep energy costs manageable for our customers.

In addition to the relief fund, ComEd offers a wide range of programs to help customers locate assistance, manage their energy use and lower their monthly bills. This includes existing energy efficiency and financial assistance programs, including budget billing, flexible payment plans, home energy audits, high-usage alerts and more — available through our online customer portal.

In 2024, ComEd connected approximately 229,000 customers to energy assistance programs, delivering more than $133 million in support. We know the energy we provide is essential to families and businesses, which is why our assistance programs are designed to offer meaningful relief and ensure reliable service for every community.

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AROUND TOWN

Coffee & Conversation with Mayor Hart had many expressing their concerns and aspirations for the village.

Swearing - in Ceremony Howard Martin - Financial Committee

Thank you Glenwood Allstars Baseball Team for another terrific season empowering the lives of young people.

Click- Beaubien Woods & South Cook Events 32

AR RO OU UN ND D T TO OW WN N A If you're searching for exceptional theater, captivating concerts, or delightful dining experiences, you'll be thrilled to explore and support these local businesses.

Each venue offers a unique ambiance and a chance to experience the vibrant culture of our community. From immersive performances that leave you breathless to mouthwatering dishes crafted with local ingredients, these establishments are dedicated to providing unforgettable moments. By choosing to engage with them, you're not just enjoying the arts and culinary delights; you're also contributing to the heartbeat of your local economy and fostering creativity in your area.

Fantastic summer adventures awhile you.

Explore Chicago's African American Pioneers & Business Owners

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This newsletter was created to highlight individuals whose contributions to the community and society are recognized and greatly appreciated as well as sharing important issues.

U.S. Constitution Fun Facts 1.

1. The The oldest oldest signer signer was was Ben Ben Franklin, Franklin, who, who, at at 81, 81, needed needed help help to to put put his his pen pen to to paper. paper.

2.

2. The The Constitution Constitution has has been been amended amended 27 27 times. times.

3.

3. George George Washington Washington and and James James Madison Madison were were the the only only two two men men to to sign sign it it who who later later went went on on to to become become president. president.

4.

4. Patrick Patrick Henry Henry was was chosen chosen to to attend attend the the Constitutional Constitutional Convention Convention but but did did not not because, because, as as he he famously famously said, said, he he “smelt “smelt aa rat.” rat.”

5.

5. Delaware Delaware was was the the first first state state to to ratify ratify the the Constitution.

Constitution.

6.

6. Rhode Rhode Island Island was was the the last last of of the the original original 13 13 states states to to ratify ratify the the Constitution.

Constitution.

7.

7. Thirty-nine Thirty-nine men men signed signed the the Constitution.

Constitution.

8.

8. The The first first 10 10 amendments amendments to to the the Constitution Constitution were were ratified ratified together together in in 1791, 1791, and and are are called called collectively collectively the the Bill Bill of of Rights.

Rights.

9.

9. The The youngest youngest person person to to sign sign the the Constitution, Constitution, Jonathon Jonathon Dayton Dayton of of New New Jersey, Jersey, was was just just 26.

26.

10.

10. The The words words “democracy” “democracy” and and “slavery” “slavery” do do not not appear appear in in the the Constitution.

Constitution.

11.

11. James James Madison Madison is is often often referred referred to to as as the the Father Father of of the the Constitution Constitution

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A Am meen nd dm meen ntt V VIIIIII.. B Baaiill,, ffiin neess,, p pu un niissh hm meen ntt..

Click Click the the link link and and

TEST TEST YOUR YOUR KNOWLEDGE KNOWLEDGE OF OF THE THE U.S. U.S. CONSTITUTION CONSTITUTION

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