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WE MUSTWE MUSTWE MUST CHANGE CHANGE CHANGE OUR OUR OUR MINDSET MINDSET MINDSET

“We must accept finite disappointment, but never lose infinite hope.”

Martin Luther King Jr.

At the February 6, 2024 village meeting, I shared 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

As we step into 2025, many are reflecting on the disappointments of the past year, both personally and professionally, as well as the results of the presidential election. Instead of resigning ourselves to the belief that our aspirations are unattainable or that our voices hold no weight in the electoral process, we can take inspiration from Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., who said, “We must accept finite disappointment, but never lose infinite hope.”

It’s crucial that we shift our mindset. To achieve our personal and professional goals, we should actively seek out specialists in our areas of interest. We need to alter our approach to the democratic process as well. Rather than giving up if our preferred candidate does not win, let’s focus on researching how the elected party’s policies will impact our quality of life. We can also encourage family and friends to register to vote, attend community meetings, and participate in upcoming local and national elections.

We must also change our perspective on technology as we enter the age of Artificial Intelligence. Just as we learned about the Stone Age and worked through the Industrial Age, today’s workers and retirees must adapt to the AI Age. While this new era may seem daunting, it’s essential to learn about and understand the impact AI will have on our daily lives, as it is here to stay and will continue to evolve.

Schools, libraries, and communities have a vital role in educating and empowering residents about the benefits, risks, and safeguards associated with Artificial Intelligence. We need to renew our personal and professional aspirations by changing our mindset. We should engage our family and friends in the voting process and embrace the notion that we can learn and participate actively in the AI Age.

Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. dedicated his life to the pursuit of equality, justice, and peace, leaving a lasting legacy through his leadership in the civil rights movement. Referring to January 20th as "Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day" instead of just "MLK Day" reminds us of the depth of his contributions and the respect he deserves. His commitment to nonviolence and powerful speeches continue to inspire generations to work towards a more just society. On this day, we celebrate not only his birth but also reflect on his profound legacy and the ongoing journey to fulfill his dream of a world where individuals are judged by their character.

Happy Birthday, Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. May we honor your legacy by continuing the important work you championed with such courage.

What is Project 2025?

PROJECT 2025

Project 2025 Policy

Project 2025 is a federal policy agenda and blueprint for a radical restructuring of the executive branch authored and published by former Trump administration officials in partnership with The Heritage Foundation, a longstanding conservative think tank that opposes abortion and reproductive rights, LGBTQ rights, immigrants’ rights, and racial equity. Project 2025’s largest publication, “Mandate For Leadership,” is a 900-page manual for reorganizing the entire federal government agency by agency to serve a conservative agenda.

NEA News

How Project 2025 Would Devastate Public Education

Stripping Support for the Most Vulnerable Students

Since 1965, Title I has provided critical financial help to high-poverty schools and districts. Project 2025 plans to eliminate Title I funding entirely. In its place, states will receive nostrings-attached block grants with zero regulations or oversight. Under this plan, already tight education budgets will be further strained, undermining the academic outcomes of 2 8 million of the nation’s most vulnerable students.

According to The Civil Rights Leadership Conference Education Fund:

Gutting Enforcement of Civil Rights Laws: Project 2025 proposes that the Departments of Education and Justice (ED and DOJ) should enforce civil rights laws only in the courts, eliminating important administrative tools to address discrimination. The overwhelming majority of complaints of discrimination in schools are handled through administrative enforcement by ED's Office for Civil Rights (resolution agreements) Without this process, fewer students would see schools and districts change their policies and processes to prevent further discrimination, and fewer schools would have examples of how to comply with the law.

Cutting Funding to Public Schools: Not only does Project 2025 propose a phase out in federal education funding, this roadmap to ruin also calls for the block granting of Title I and other federal programs so that funds can be diverted from marginalized children to their wealthier peers meaning less support for children in concentrated poverty and exacerbated disparities based on family income, race, disability, and first language

What Project 2025 Means for Black Communities: Education Equity

According to the AFSCME, Project 2025 Would Tear Down Our Country's Health Care System From eliminating the Affordable Care Act (ACA) to cutting Medicaid benefits, increasing Medicare Part D prescription drug prices and eliminating reproductive freedom nationwide, Donald Trump’s Project 2025 would have disastrous, deadly consequences on our country’s health care system

The Trump agenda would also repeal part of the Inflation Reduction Act that allows the government to negotiate directly with pharmaceutical companies to lower the costs of prescription drugs and improve access to lifesaving medication for seniors receiving Medicare The price of insulin, which has decreased for everyone after it was capped at $35 per month for Medicare recipients, could very well surge again

By repealing the ACA, Trump’s agenda would allow health insurance companies to once again deny coverage based on preexisting conditions. Such a move would leave tens of millions of people without health coverage Just this year, 21 3 million people signed up for insurance just this year through the ACA marketplace

My Friends - Thurgood Marshall & Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.

Jim Summers

Resident Husband

Father

Grandfather

Entrepreneur

Educator

Mentor & Boy Scout

Historian

Phi Beta Sigma

After my first year of college, I took a job, as a library page, with the United States Supreme Court that had quite an impact on me. I was going to school In the evening and working the court from 9 to 5; it was a good and decent job as a student. Library pages were college students. I was exposed to a lot of greatness among all the Supreme Court Justices. I would go to the offices every day to take, drop off, and pick up books. So very early in life, at 18 years old, I got to meet famous people who were knowledgeable, very well paid, and articulate. Thank goodness my grandfather raised all of his kids and his grandkids to be well spoken due to speaking and reciting poems in church. We learned early on to speak well. I moved very well in that circle. My friends, whose parents were typically laborers, didn't have that advantage. So I was fortunate enough to be able to do that job and do it well and met a lot of people.

That's where I met Thurgood Marshall, who at the time was an attorney for the NAACP. And down the road, he introduced me to Dr. King. Mr. Marshall would come into the library 2-3 times a week if he needed research for a case. He would come into the library where the lawyers would fill out a book request sheet and put it on a stack. I noticed that the librarians always made sure to keep his request from being attended to. He would never get his book request filled until everybody else got theirs filled. I would take a bunch of bookmarks and actually go through and put the pages he wanted to cite. Finally, one day I said, Mr. Marshall, I'm gonna tell you something, you can't tell anybody because they'll firing me.“ He asked, “what's that?” I said, “they take your request and make sure we never get to them. I've been pulling your sheets out and getting your request done. So I just wanna ask, are they okay?” I always thought the librarians were doing it. I said, no, I figured it out. He said, man, this is great, but thanks for telling me. The only time I ever heard him curse, he said, “I knew those **** were up to something.“

Mr. Marshall started asking for me when he came into the library because my buddy and I were the only blacks in the library. He would call for me again before he left and ask how am I doing. I told him about my involvement in sit -ins, lunch counter sit -ins and how I'd been locked up and stuff. He gave me his card and told me to call him if I ever need him in the future. I told him I’m married now and have a kid. My sit-in days are over. So every time he'd come in, we'd chat about what I'm doing in school, I'd ask what cases he was working on, what was coming down the pike, and what could I expect to see in the newspapers about what he was doing. We came real close over the years that I worked there. One day, I got a call over the loudspeakers, I went to the front desk and was told my buddy was waiting for me. As I was walking to the table, I noticed he was standing there with another guy - a guy who was kind of short.

Mr.Marshallsaid,“Iwantyoutomeetafriendofmine.Youprobablyknowhim;thisisDr. MartinLutherKing.Isaid,“Dr.King.IthoughtIrecognizedyou,butIwasn'tsure”.Hesaid, “yeah,youngman,don'tworry,alotofpeoplewouldsaythesame.”Wechattedabout my,goingtoschoolandaboutcivilrightsissuesDr.KingandMr.Marshallwereworking on Wedidn'thaveallthesegadgetsandlaptops Soyoucouldsay,here'swhatI'm workingon.Soyousee,yougottocomewithmetothelibraryandI'llshowyouwhatI'm upto.Andsohewouldcomein,Iprobablymethiminthelibrarymaybehalfadozentime overthefiveyearsthatIworkedthere.

IgottoknowDr.King.IwasattheMarchin1963,wherehedidhisIHaveaDream speech.TheyfiredmebecauseIattendedthatmarch.Again,Itellthestorytostudents sotheycanunderstandwhatthingswerelikebackinthosedays.Whenthemarchwas announced,A.PhilipRandolph,myfraternitybrother,wasactuallytheonewhowas puttingittogether.Technically,BayardRustinwasactuallyputtingittogether,butthe movement,Ididn'tknowatthetime,becausehewasgay,theydidn'twanthisnameout front.

Irequestedthedayoffbutwasrepeatedlydenied.Duringlunchtime,Iwalkeddown ConstitutionAvenuetothebottom.Andthecrowdswereallthewayinfrontofthe LincolnMemorial.Acoupleofferedmechicken,potatosaladandacooldrink.Ideclined becauseIhadtogetbacktotheSupremeCourt.Theyencouragedmetostay,eat,and listentoDr.King’ssoontobedeliveredspeechtothecrowd.IstayedandheardDr. King’s‘IHaveaDreamSpeech.’

AsIreturnedtoworkthenextday,Iwasfiredandtoldtogetmythingsforattendingthe march.IwasgoingtosaygoodbyetoothersinthebuildingwhenJusticeWilliam Douglassnoticedmeadmiringhisarrowheadsinadisplay Surprisingly,wewereboth BoyScoutsandsharedaninterestinarrowheads.WhenIinformedhimthatIwassaying good-byesbecauseIwasfiredforattendingDr.King’smarch,heimmediatelycalled downstairsandinformedmybossthatthisisafreecountryandIwillbereturningto workforaslongasIwantedtoworkattheSupremeCourt.

Igotexposedtogreatnessearly.Imetalotofinfluentialpeople.Peopleasked,whyI didn’ttakepictures? Ididn’twalkaroundwithacamera,becauseIwasmeeting famouspeopleeveryday.Andifyouworkedinthegovernment,seeingfamouspeople wasnotthatbigadeal.

Youknow,IwishI'dhadacellphonesoIcouldhavetakenthosepictures,butitwasn't thatbigadeal,andIdidn'thavethemeanstodoit

Day of Service & Learning Honoring Rev., Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., Jan. 18, 2025

Mark your calendars for an inspiring weekend of events as part of our 2025 Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Celebration! On January 18, 2025, we will kick off the weekend with a Day of Service and Learning at our headquarters in Chicago.

Then, on January 20, 2025, we invite you to attend our annual Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day Breakfast at Soldier Field in Chicago, beginning at 8:30 a.m. Be sure to visit rainbowpush.org to register and secure your spot for these meaningful events.

REV. DR. MARTIN LUTHER KING, JR.

Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Holiday Chicagoland Events 2025

In the heart of history's gentle stream, Where courage blooms and dreams dare gleam,

Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King stood tall,

A visionary with a clarion call. With nonviolence as his guiding light, He led with love, embracing the fight

Transformation sparked in every heart,

As justice played its destined part.

In the realm of peace he cast his spell,

Where bravery and respect did dwell.

Through tumult, trials, and darkest night,

He forged a path to hope and light. In his echoes, let us find our way, In courage and respect, let us stay.

For his dream, forever we shall strive,

Keeping his spirit and vision alive.

Chicago History Museum

Westside Church North Lawndale

HAPPY BIRTHDAYHAPPY BIRTHDAYHAPPY BIRTHDAY

Lyrics

You know it doesn't make much sense

There ought to be a law against

Anyone who takes offense

At a day in your celebration 'cause we all know in our minds

That there ought to be a time

That we can set aside

To show just how much we love you

And I'm sure you would agree

What could fit more perfectly

Than to have a world party on the day you came to be

Happy birthday to you

Happy birthday

Happy birthday to you

Happy birthday

I just never understood

How a man who died for good

Could not have a day that would

Be set aside for his recognition

Because it should never be

Just because some cannot see

The dream as clear as he

That they should make it become an illusion

And we all know everything

That he stood for time will bring

For in peace, our hearts will sing

Thanks to Martin Luther King

Happy birthday to you

Happy birthday

Happy birthday to you

Happy birthday

Click and listen to Happy Birthday by Stevie Wonder

Why has there never been a holiday

Where peace is celebrated

All throughout the world

The time is overdue

For people like me and you

Who know the way to truth

Is love and unity to all God's children

It should be a great event

And the whole day should be spent

In full remembrance

Of those who lived and died for the oneness of all people

So let us all begin

We know that love can win

Let it out, don't hold it in

Sing it loud as you can

Happy birthday to you

Happy birthday

Happy birthday to you

Happy birthday

Happy birthday to you

Happy birthday

Happy birthday to you

Happy birthday

Ooh yeah

Happy birthday

We know the key to unity of all people

Is in the dream that you had so long ago

That lives in all of the hearts of people

That believe in unity

We'll make the dream become a reality

I know we will

Because our hearts tell us so

Happy birthday

Source: Musixmatch

Songwriters: Stevie Wonder

Happy Birthday lyrics © Black Bull Music, Jobete Music Co Inc, Jobete Music Co., Inc.

THE DIGITAL AGE THE DIGITAL AGE

In the digital age, we find our way, Where Alexa and Siri have much to say.

Guided by GPS, we roam and explore, Cell phones in hand, opening every door.

From youth to seniors, all join the ride, Embracing technology, with eyes open wide.

Robots assist in tasks mundane, In automobiles, they help maintain. Computers, our partners in work and play,

Streamlining life in every way.

In healthcare, AI takes a stand, Diagnosing, healing, with a gentle hand.

For the young who learn, and the wise who've seen,

AI brings hope, a bridge in between. Travel made easy, plans unfold, In restaurants, orders are seamlessly told.

As we embrace this AI dance, Learning and understanding, we enhance.

For in this world, so vast, so wide, AI is a companion, by our side.

ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE (AI) - THE NEW FRONTIER

Bernard Key

STEM City Chicago MaaS Provider, Metaverse Developer, Esports and NFT Creator Consultant Services

I hear adults make life changes for 2025 but never hear how we can inspire our Afro Children to reinvent themselves. STEM City Chicago in partnership with David N Jones and Lumena Energy has developed an Afro Solar Punk STEM/STEAM curriculum for youth and young adults.

The end of bling and superficial things that turn our youth to ignorant consumers who are blinded by Hip Hop and the butt naked oversexed artists that perpetrated this destructive culture in our children and community.

Students learn renewable energy and hi tech solutions to improve their schools, communities and lives. They learn how to create and innovate using existing technologies integrated with green initiatives.

Upcoming activities STEM City Chicago NSBE Jr Solar Punk Chapter

1 Human Trafficking Innovation Solution Hackathons

2 Solar Punk Music, Poetry Restorative Hip Hop Jams

3 Solar Punk Fashion Shows

4 Griffin Museum Science and Industry Black Creativity STEM Day

4 A I Hackathon in partnership with the HBCUs

5 Comic book reading club and Anime Art

6. NSBE competitions

7. Construction of the first Smart City in Ford Heights, IL

8. VR/AR Metaverse development and crypto investment club and NFT publishing business

Looking for an in school or after school learning base project activity for your school?

China Has Launched New AI Transport

Click STEM CITY USA

LEROY & JACKIE MCCRAY LEROY & JACKIE MCCRAY LEROY & JACKIE MCCRAY

Childhood Sweethearts Retirees

Product Designer Artist Author Master Gardener

2 children: Law Enforce

Residents: 1.5 years

Meeting Leroy and Jackie at the Glenwood Strong Party luncheon was a delightful experience. Jackie, dressed in a vibrant shade of purple, Leroy and Jackie Strong was dressed a

Meeting Leroy and Jackie at the Glenwood Strong Party luncheon was a delightful experience. Jackie, dressed in a vibrant shade of purple, immediately caught my attention, making it easy to start a conversation. As we chatted, I discovered a fascinating glimpse into the lives of my immediately my making easy to As we chatted, a glimpse into lives my caught my to a conversation. we chatted, I fascinating the lives of new neighbors, learning about their diverse interests and hobbies. Their warmth and openness made the interaction truly rewarding. Following neighbors, their diverse Their and openness made new neighbors, learning about their diverse interests and hobbies. Their warmth and openness made the interaction truly rewarding. Following our engaging conversation, I was thrilled to be invited to interview them and take a tour of their home art gallery. This opportunity not only conversation, to interview them a tour of This opportunity only our I to to interview them and take of their home art not only allowed me to appreciate their artistic tastes but also deepened my understanding of their creative expressions and passions. It was a allowed me to appreciate their artistic tastes but also deepened my understanding of their creative expressions and passions. It was a allowed me to appreciate their artistic tastes but also deepened my understanding of their creative expressions and passions. It was a memorable encounter that enriched my connection with the community. memorable encounter that enriched my connection community. encounter with

What did you like most about your job/career? Jackie: Doing whatever I want to do. I was grateful for the job and great salary, but it was very stressful. I enjoyed it but it was too much for my health. Leroy retired a year before, so I decided to retire too.

How long have you lived in Glenwood?

One and a half years. We wanted to move out of the city. We looked at various houses in Evergreen Park and Oak Lawn. Actually, Glenwood never came up. We had an appointment to see another house. I was on the computer and saw this house that I thought would be too big. When I showed it to Leroy, he asked, “and why aren’t we going to see that house? When we walked in the door, we immediately knew this was it. We had no reservations - nothing. We also have friends in the Estates and pretty much knew about the area.

Leroy: I have a jar of things to do after retirement and it’s not empty yet. We have two children in law enforcement.

Jackie: When Leroy retired, I got to see more of his work. For two years straight, he drew basically everyday. When I retired, I got to see more of the art that he drew. It was outstanding. We attended the same Junior High School In Philadelphia, his work was always displayed. Around the time he had his show, we were going to different shows’ open houses similar to what they have in Bronzeville. You can go to different people's houses and the art that was displayed in these houses were phenomenal. So, I got to appreciate it even more.

What motivated your love for art and how long have you been an artist? I was the oldest of seven in North Philly. It started with comic books. Just looking at comic books and reading comic books, It dawned on me, who does that? The way figures are drawn and the whole thing. I attempted to recreate the comic books work one day and it came easy. I would go out on my mom’s roof and just be by myself and practice. It came naturally. Art brought joy to my family and friends as well as others I met Jackie in elementary school and would do cartoon characters for everyone in the class. It was and still is fun.

Would you encourage young people to pursue the field? Why or why not?

When you say “art", it was a misconception to me and I’m sure it’s a misconception to a lot of people. I went to the University of Illinois as part of Project 500 in 1968. Coming from my background and saying art, we think of art we think of 2D. The university environment exposed me to what art actually is and can be. From graphic design, film, photography. Not just painting. As a matter of fact, I got my degree in product design. Industrial design. You have sculpture, Art forms: dance.

Yes., I highly recommend it If you love what you do, it’s easy. It’s not work. It’s fun for you. The photography intrigued me a lot. I still take photos. It helped in my professional career as a Product Designer in the model making class. As a designer, you make models of the products that your company wants to produce. I had to make wooden models. All of that comes in the arts. Any child should enjoy it and schools should continue. I do not understand why schools would discontinue the arts. It’s ridiculous.

Jackie: By discontinuing the arts, our children are missing out on so much. That’s a loss.(She) was in the choir. Leroy: We grew up with cooking, typing, electric, wood auto shop, booking keeping - all of those are life skills. “Why would you cut life skills out of education? “

What obstacles, if any, did you have to overcome in your profession?

Let’s start with 1968 U of I Project 500 Project 500 was a government program that the few U of I black students pushed to have others attend. That was the first time that over 500 black students landed at an all white Big 10 university. I was 19 yrs old, 934 miles away from home, and got arrested There were a lot of us that got arrested for mob action all because the university wasn’t prepared for all of us students and had a lot of the sisters sleeping on cots in laundry rooms A lot of us gave up our rooms so the ladies could have a decent place to sleep

We had a sit in at the Union and talked to the Chancellor about getting rooms for people, but the university turned the table on us and had us arrested for inciting a riot and mob action, which wasn’t true at all. That’s history. A lot of the white professors didn’t want us down there. So, I had incidents where I was getting bad grades for doing good work. I had to bring that to the school’s attention

The university’s attitude was there was no way that you were going to get 500 black kids from inner cities around the country to qualify to attend a Big 10 school We proved them wrong Over 60% of us graduated

Even after graduating as a Product Designer in 1973 , there were only 6 Product Designers in the country. There are a lot more now , (a brother), the designer of the Philadelphia Airport, got me into Product Design I didn’t know what a PD was In the working world, it was interview after interview I was told I was overqualified which to this day, I don't understand how you’re overqualified for a job I was often heckled

Do you see challenges coming up now because so many programs have been turned back?

With Project 2025, more programs may be held back.

In My Shoes details Leroy’s university experiences.

In My ShoesBuy on Amazon

Jackie & Leroy: You don’t really know the extent of the cuts. They’re taking so much out of schools, especially our history.

Their history also isn’t being taught in schools. What they’re teaching are lies. It’s not even their history. You know what’s weird and amazing; there are more Chinese students at the U of I than Black students. They have their own Chinatown.

What do you see as some of the greatest obstacles facing young people today?

Jackie: & Leroy: Discipline and respect. I don’t know if it’s their fault. It starts at home. If you don’t have it at home, once you go out into the world, you won’t have that.

Life skills- everything is digital. Ask a child today to tell time on an analog clock- they can’t.

In 2025, Artificial Intelligence (AI) will be used more and more. I hope to work with schools and libraries assisting residents learn the pros and cons of AI and how to avoid scams.

Leroy: I came through the whole process.

I came through the whole process of drafting boards, T square, and slide rulers instead of calculators. The technology kept moving. The last decade of my profession, computer graphics(technology ) came into being. CAD system. AI is just a progression of that. It’s being used everywhere. It’s a question of keeping up.

Jackie’s Hobbies: plants, cooking, and gardening.

I do a lot of things with essential oils. I blend the essential oils and study them. I use oils for pain. I took a 13 class course to become a Master Gardener with the University of Illinois. I surprised myself one Friday morning of 2013, I enrolled in the class. The class was held in one of the forest preserves from 9AM -12 Noon.

I enjoyed it more than I thought I would.

That’s what I enjoyed about retirement because I could do that and get the knowledge. Once I completed the course, I received recognition as a Master Gardener.

Noel Mayo

Project 500 - Commemorated

& JACKIE MCCRAY

LEROY & JACKIE MCCRAY

MARY DEBOSE

Avid reader Book club Member

TheManWhoLovedBookstooMuch

TheAdventuresofAugieMarch

BOOK RECOMMENDATIONS

Barlett,AllisonHover

Bellow,Saul

TheOtherEinstein Benedict,Marie

ThePersonalLibrarian Benedict,Marie&Murray,V.

MEET THE AUTHOR T.J. Miller

The Southland’s very own has written his first sci-fi novel.

In 2023, STRUCK won the CIPA Silver Award for the Colorado Independent Publishers Association (CIPA) Multicultural Fiction category!

No one wants to get struck by lightning, of course. But what if getting struck by lightning could grant you unique powers? What would you choose to do with those powers? 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... Written by a sci-fi/fantasy fan for other superfans, Struck illuminates the complexity of being Black across time and space while entertaining with stories of courageous superheroes, terrifying villains, and everyone in between.

This season is a great time to begin a book club with family, friends, and neighbors. https://www.cipabooks.com/cip a-evvy-2023-winners/

E d w i n K i n g

President Brookwood Point Homeowners Association

Glenwood has a rich history that is built on a strong foundation. It’s a foundation built around shared values, active participation and a sense of community. It is incumbent upon us all to continue this legacy that has been established.

Community involvement is crucial in creating and maintaining vibrant, forward thinking, resilient communities. As cultures evolve, it is important for the community to be architects in the evolution. Each of us, as Glenwood residents, play a vital role in maintaining the quality of life, preserving property values and fostering a sense of community. There is an educator that said, “idealization is only as great as actualization”.

The next step after having an idea, seeing issues, is to act with a sense of urgency. The specific action that I’m asking for is for residents to get actively involved with your Homeowners Association. Glenwood has four that represent the different subdivisions. We cannot afford to allow apathy to guide us as this leads us down unknown paths blindly.

If we are going to grow as a community, we must employ all to get involved.

Brookwood Point 1st Wednesday of the month @ Hickory Glen Fieldhouse - 7PM

Glenwood Manor 1st Thursday of the month @ Arquilla Park Fieldhouse - 7PM

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

Village Hall meeting 7PM 1st & 3rd Tuesday of the Month

Brookwood Point Homeowners Association Meeting

Michelle Mosley

Board of Trustee Candidate michellemosley@glenwoodstrongparty. org

I am Michelle Mosley, I grew up in Chicago, Illinois. I attended Chicago Public Schools and furthered my education at Chicago State and Roosevelt Universities. I began my accounting career at the University of Illinois at Chicago (UIC) After 13 years there, I left to pursue dot com millions Unfortunately, that didn’t work out However, that invaluable experience sparked my passion for entrepreneurs, start-ups and small businesses. I have spent the balance of my career working hand-inhand with founders to manage the accounting function of their businesses.

I moved to Glenwood in 2014 and quickly fell in love with the community. I became involved with the Brookwood Point Homeowners Association, where I currently hold the office of secretary. From there I began attending the village board meetings These meetings highlighted the need for community engagement I expressed my interest and was appointed to the village’s Zoning Board and shortly thereafter the Finance Committee

I am seeking the office of Trustee because I am committed to the fiscal health and economic development of the village. I believe my years of experience provide me with perspective that will add value to the board’s decision-making process.

Glenwood residents deserve responsible leadership.

Jesse Durden Jesse Durden Jesse Durden Clerk Candidate jessedurden@glenwoodstrongparty.org

Jesse C. Durden Jr. has proudly called the Village of Glenwood home for 47 years.

As a committed member of the Brookwood Point Homeowners Association, he has served on the board in both leadership roles, including President and Vice-President, always striving to enhance his community.

A seasoned entrepreneur, Jesse has successfully owned and operated several businesses, gaining extensive expertise in risk management, human resources, customer service, inventory control, and bookkeeping. He has applied these skills throughout his 23year career with VCNA Prairie Materials, where he holds multiple roles, including Redi-Mix Driver, Plant Operator, Heavy Equipment Operator, and “Pitmaster.”

Jesse is running for Glenwood Village Clerk to offer accurate, efficient, and professional administrative support to residents, businesses, and visitors alike. His candidacy is grounded in a deep commitment to his community and a promise to deliver equality, transparency, service, and trustworthiness.

Vote for Jesse C. Durden Jr. – a leader dedicated to making a positive impact for Glenwood.

ED HADNOTT OP -ED

The Glenwood Plaza, a brief history

The Glenwood Plaza was purchased by the Village of Glenwood to settle a lawsuit brought against the Village of Glenwood. On December 15, 2015, the Village of Glenwood capitulated and purchased the Plaza for just under $7 million dollars.

Over the past 9 years over $20 million dollars of your money was spent on the Plaza without your knowledge or permission. Every mistake possible was made on the redevelopment of the Glenwood Plaza, including the choice of the developer, land assemblage, not requiring a performance bond and too many other mistakes to list in this article.

Nine years later, the rear of the Plaza is a ghost town strewn with garbage and broken liquor bottles. Its likely that the rear of the Plaza will never be developed as the less valuable parcels should have been developed first Instead, the frontage along Halsted was developed first, some given away for ONE DOLLAR.

This inept development by the Village of Glenwood is partially responsible for the significant increase in your property taxes. You have every right to be upset. If you have any questions about the financial disaster known as the Glenwood Plaza, feel free to contact me. My email is optimumapp@msn.com or contact me on Facebook or Instagram.

Click Youtube video of Glenwood Plaza Video - Glenwood Plaza - 2024

N I K K I G I O V A N N I

NIKKI ROSA NIKKI ROSA NIKKI ROSA

Childhood rememberances are always a drag if you're Black you always remember things like living in Woodlawn with no inside toilet and if you become famous or something They never talk about how happy you were to have your mother all to yourself and how good the water felt when you got your bath from one of those Big tubs that folk in chicago barbeque in and somehow when you talk about home it never gets across how much you understood their feelings as the whole family attended meetings

About Hollydale and even though you remember your biographers never understand your father's pain as he sells his stock and another dream goes

And though your're poor it isn't poverty that concerns you and though they fought a lot it isn't your father's drinking that makes any difference but only that

Everybody is together and you and your sister have happy birthdays and very good Christmasses and I really hope no white person ever has cause to write about me because they never understand Black love is Black wealth and they'll probably talk about my hard childhood and never understand that all the while I was quite happy

Nikki Giovanni's Life Achievements

About

The Creating Pathways and Access for Student Success™ (CPASS) Foundation was created to attract, encourage, educate, guide, and increase the number of promising, yet underrepresented Illinois students in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEMM) related professions We are committed to providing a holistic educational foundation and exclusive access to career development resources for students to persist in STEMM careers CPASS’ predecessor program, Chicago Area Health and Medical Careers Program™ (CAHMCP) has been in place since 1979 and has primarily focused on increasing the number of qualified underrepresented minority applicants and matriculants from the city of Chicago to medical and other health professional schools

Our Mission

CPASS provides STEMM programming for underrepresented Illinois students while impacting policy change, providing access to valuable STEMM programs, empowering their STEMM identity, supporting them to excel as advocates, and lead social justice efforts in their home communities.

Our Vision

CPASS will be the premier pipeline organization for underserved students to persist in STEMM careers and dismantle health inequity.

2024-25 CPASS STEMM Scholars Academy

PROGRAM DEADLINE: February 28, 2025 at 11:59 PM CST (Midnight)

We are excited to open applications for our STEMM Scholars Academy!

Summer 2025 Program Dates: July 5, 2025 to August 9, 2025

Cost: Free to participants that commit to the 5-week, 3-year program!!!

Are you a high school freshman passionate about science, technology, engineering, math, or medicine (STEMM)? If so, our residential STEMM Scholars Academy is your pathway to an incredible journey! Imagine spending five immersive weeks on a college campus exploring the wonders of STEMM alongside like-minded peers

In your first summer, you'll delve into STEMM exploration with our partners like the Griffin Museum of Science and Industry, The Chicago School, and Lewis University. But that's just the beginning! In your second and third summers, you'll engage in various classes, from Math & Science to Project-based STEMM workshops, College Prep, Peace and Social Justice, and English Language Arts This initiative also offers programming and support beyond the classroom with exclusive networking opportunities with STEMM professionals of color, visits to industry partners where you can witness STEMM in action, mentorship, and a host of other programming

Even during the academic year, you won't miss out You'll receive intensive Math enrichment, attend career workshops, build valuable networks, and access college prep resources – all at no cost to you Our program is 100% free because we believe in empowering every young mind with the chance to excel in STEMM

Are you ready to embrace the future of STEMM education? Apply today to secure your spot in our transformative program. Your STEMM adventure starts here!

CPASS APPLICATION

CAREER OPPORTUNITIES

AROUND TOWN

Auditorium Theater, Chicago, IL

Chicago, IL

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THEATER 47 - Park Forest, IL

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SIMONEGREEN -MLKSOULFULJOURNEY

Monday,January20,2025-3:00pm

Ticket Price: Regular $35 | Senior (65+) $32 | Group(10+)$30

SimoneGreenisanativeofLittleRock,Arkansas andisagraduateofthe

University of Iowa with a degree in Sociology WhileattheUniversityof Iowa, Simone was a member of the popular band ShadeofBlueinIowa where she opened for such renowned artists as the late“QueenofBlues,”

RaheemDeVaughn,KokoTaylor,GeorgeClinton & the P-Funk All Starts and Jazz legend Joe Lovano, Maceo Parker and Roy Haynes

Recently, she has opened for Stokley and Denise Williams FREEDOMHALL,PARKFOREST,IL

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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.

1924 PRESIDENT JIMMY CARTER 2024

Jimmy Carter served as the 39th President of the United States from 1977 to 1981. He was awarded the 2002 Nobel Peace Prize for work to find peaceful solutions to international conflicts, to advance democracy and human rights, and to promote

C H A R A C T E R

On October 17, 1979, President Jimmy Carter signed into law the Department of Education Organization Act. The ED opened officially in May, 1980.

President Jimmy Carter - Signing ceremony for the Department of Education 10/17/1979

National Archives Identifier: 841821 via the Carter Presidential Library) Source: research archives gov