Glenwood Did You Know... December 2024 - Toleda Hart

December 2024

Issue # 11

GLENWOOD GLENWOOD DID DID YOU YOU KNOW...

KNOW... www.glenwooddidyouknow.com

TOLEDA HART HART TOLEDA

GLENWOOD GLENWOOD MAYORAL MAYORAL CANDIDATE CANDIDATE TENACIOUS TENACIOUS

TOP-NOTCH TOP-NOTCH

TRUSTWORTHY TRUSTWORTHY

Luke 2:10-11 - "But the angel said to them, 'Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people. Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord.'"

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 the holiday season envelops us in its warmth and joy, I want to take a moment to express my heartfelt gratitude and best wishes to each of you. This time of year is a wonderful opportunity to reflect on the blessings in our lives and the cherished connections we share.

May your days be filled with love, laughter, and the comfort of being surrounded by those who matter most. Let us embrace the spirit of giving, compassion, and unity, spreading kindness and joy wherever we go.

Wishing you a season of peace, happiness, and cherished memories.

H Ha ap pp py y H Ho o ll ii d da ay y ss !!

Holiday Crime Crime Prevention Prevention Tips Tips Holiday While the holiday season is a special time of year, busy people can become distracted and vulnerable to theft and other holiday crime. Be careful and enjoy the season.

Parties When attending a holiday party where alcohol will be present, know your safe limit and never drink and drive. Always keep drinks in view to prevent someone from putting something in the drink. Be aware of the jewelry you wear to avoid being the target of a robbery.

Shopping If you are holiday shopping at night, park in a well-lighted area. Do not park next to vans or cars with tinted windows. Be aware of your surroundings when approaching your vehicle. If something or someone seems suspicious, don’t approach your car and alert a security agent. Never leave your car running while it is unoccupied. Don’t leave packages or other valuables on the seat of your vehicle where they are clearly visible.

While shopping, teach children to ask for help from a store clerk, security or police officer if they get separated from you. Never allow children to make unaccompanied trips to the restroom. Teach children to immediately inform you if a stranger is bothering them.

Keep an updated record of all your credit card numbers at home so you can quickly report them if they are lost or stolen. Notify the credit card issuer immediately if a credit card is lost, stolen, or misused.

Deliveries Be aware that criminals sometimes pose as couriers delivering gifts. Watch for criminals trying to take advantage of the generosity of people during the holiday season by soliciting charitable donations. Ask for identification and find out how the donation will be used. If you are not satisfied with the answers, do not donate.

Dealing with Grief During the Holidays (click on the above link)

When dealing with grief during the holidays, you can try these strategies: Accept your feelings It's okay to feel sad, angry, or even joyful during the holidays. Everyone grieves differently, and there's no right or wrong way to feel.

Set realistic expectations Consider what you can handle and what you might need to avoid. You can let friends and family know if you need to opt out of some activities.

Create new traditions You can create new traditions or rituals that honor your loved one and your current situation.

Honor your loved one You can include your loved one in your celebrations by remembering them and sharing memories.

Take care of yourself Make sure you get enough rest and engage in activities that bring you comfort. Avoid self-medicating with alcohol.

Ask for support Talk with loved ones about your feelings and needs.

Do something different You can try doing something different to make the holidays feel less painful.

Plan activities Anticipation can be worse than the holiday itself, so you can try planning activities.

Give You can find relief by giving to others or donating in memory of your loved one.

EUGENEIA WHITE 18 year resident Minister Business Owner School Nurse/Health Clerk Vision & Hearing Screening Technician Glenwood/Lynwood Public Library Trustee I have been a homeowner in Glenwood for 18 years.

Profession: In 2018, I answered the call to ministry and became a licensed and ordained Minister. In 2019, I became a licensed and ordained as an Evangelist. I am a retired Property Manager who managed condominiums, townhomes, and cooperatives for 25 years. I worked for a few of the top property management companies in the city of Chicago; Suddler Property Management, Lieberrman Management Services, and Wolin-Levin Management (now FirstService Residential) Business Owner for 11 years; Above and Beyond Professional Service (resume writing and interview coaching service), A Story To Tell Obituary Services, and MsGeneia’s Jewels (jewelry $5 and up).

Also currently employed with Brookwood School District #167 at Hickory Bend Elementary at the School Nurse/Health Clerk. I am also the Vision & Hearing Screening Technician for the entire Brookwood School District #167.

I worked for our amazing Glenwood-Lynwood Public Library for three and half years in Outreach (bridging the gap between the library and both Lynwood and Glenwood school districts; until COVID, then the schools closed, and we went to E-Learning.

What do you enjoy/dislike most about your job/career?

I am very proud to be a business owner, it is a lot of hard work but when you do what you love, it doesn’t feel like work. I am grateful for the kinds of businesses that I own because they allow me to help so many people in various ways. I provide the kinds of services that are essential to the daily lives and needs of many people. I am also able to give back, help unite people, make people feel beautiful, encourage them, make them proud of themselves again, I am able to serve others greatly, and more. I love working in my school district with staff/teachers and the children. I am able to serve my community, see the children of our community in a different light and help them grow to be productive citizens in this community one day. There is a great sense of pride that I have knowing that I am a part of being a solution and making a positive difference in our town.

What if any obstacles did you encounter and how did you overcome them?

When I became the Board President of our condominium association here in Glenwood. It was a mess; no managing agent, no representing attorney, the bank accounts were in the red, no one had any regards for the bylaws or rules and regulations that were in place, and people were selling drugs out of the buildings. I was a property manager myself managing a portfolio of 6 large properties in the River North, Loop, and Downtown areas. I brought my knowledge, experience, connections, and drive to work closely with the Glenwood Police Dept. and elected officials in efforts to help us to gain order and turn Glenwood Oaks Condominiums around. I am truly grateful that I was able to work with two of Glenwood’s greatest police chiefs; Chief Smith and Chief Cook. They took me under their wings, helped us get rid of the bad apples, helped us get order and keep it within our association. I am grateful to work closely with Chief Peddycord, who has continued the relationship I was blessed to start with our former chiefs of police.

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

Yes. I encourage young people to follow their dreams. If being a business owner is something they want to do; I will strongly encourage them to surround themselves with other business owners, get a mentor, be clear about their business, do what they love to do, don’t be afraid to fail or reinvent/rebrand themselves, and trust God. It’s sad, but the enthusiasm for working in education is quickly dying out. Unfortunately, because teachers and staff members are afraid for their safety in schools; let it be due to the gun violence in the schools or physical contact by the students; and they are being physically, mentally, and financially abused and there isn’t much being done to resolve these issues. I would encourage those who have been called to work in education to do so, because these are the individuals who will not give up and will make a difference, these are the individuals that we really need in the schools to help fight and turn things around.

What are the most important areas of concern that the incoming presidential candidate should focus on for children and/or health education?

Get rid of the “No Child Left Behind Act,” take mental health more seriously, put truancy officers back into the schools, hold children and their parents accountable for their actions and grades. There seems to be an increase in students with IEP/505, who need to be in a proper SPED school that they will benefit from. Look more closely at the works of the school boards and superintendents, they are the individuals who also do the students a disservice and set them up for failure.

What are some of the greatest obstacles facing young people today?

Lack of the desire to have or gain knowledge, the anger that they have stored up inside of them, they lack self-confidence. Social media has had a negative effect on them; the bullying is out of control, they believe everything they hear without doing their own research. The young people today seem to be afraid of face-to-face communication. I think if we were to get back to the basics and put down the technology for a while; they would see the beauty and magic of human contact and face-to-face communication.

What advice/suggestions would you give young people as they embark upon college/career?

Take time in your early years of high school to really get to know yourself and what you would like to do; make sure it makes you happy, you’re able to make a difference in the lives of others and your own. Don’t allow others to try to live their life through you. Be a trailblazer and always surround yourself with others who you are able to learn from who are doing great things.

Is there a work life balance, if so, what is yours?

God is first and above all things in my life and doing His will. I am still working diligently to put myself after God; I’m getting better, because I can’t help anyone if I’m down, lol. My family comes after me, and everything else is after them.

Hobbies: Reading, journaling, bowling, roller skating, and trying new things.

Organizations: MsGeneia’s Inspirational Corner - Online Ministry Order of the Eastern Star - Currently Worthy Matron of Bithiah Chapter #1176 Corliss High School Alumni All Class & Family Picnic Committee: Currently Secretary for 6-years Glenwood/Lynwood Public Library Trustee (4 years) - Currently VicePresident Glenwood Oaks Condominium Association (18years) - Currently Board President (for 16 of the 18 years on the board) Brookwood School District #167 PTO - Served for 5-years President for 4years City of Chicago Local School Council & Parent Advisory Council - Served for 12-years and served as President for 7-years (3 at Horace Mann Elementary and 4 at South Shore School Of Leadership)

TOLEDA HART

My decision to run for mayor was born from listening to the voices of Glenwood residents who called for stronger leadership and a brighter future. I’m running to make Glenwood “Strong”—the safest, most prosperous community in the south suburbs. I believe government works best when it prioritizes the people and their needs. The residents of Glenwood deserve experienced, results-driven leadership that unites us and moves our community forward.

I bring over 20 years of leadership experience in public service, guided by integrity, fairness, and empathy. From my work with the Illinois Department of Children and Family Services and the Illinois Department of Corrections, where I serve as District 1 Facility Board Inquiry Oversight Administrator, I’ve tackled complex challenges and delivered solutions that work.

As President and CEO of MYSI, Inc. (formerly Methodist Youth Services, Inc.), I strengthened community engagement, promoted accountability, and focused on improving lives. As an elected Glenwood Trustee and President of the Brookwood

Throughout my career, I’ve developed the skills of listening, mediating, and advocating for fair solutions.

These are the skills I’ll bring to the role of mayor—along with my deep passion for civic responsibility, education, and fiscal stability. I am ready to lead from day one and would be honored to serve as your next mayor.

A Vision for Unity and Progress My vision for Glenwood is rooted in unity and progress.

As Audre Lorde wisely said, “In our world, divide and conquer must become define and empower.” By fostering collaboration, inclusivity, and community, we can build a stronger, safer future for all.

I envision a Glenwood where residents and businesses

School District 167 Board—and through two Treasurer mayoral appointments in Glenwood—I have consistently worked to advance our community’s well-being.

thrive through transparent, inclusive decision-making.

Together, we can create a government that supports

My academic achievements, including a Master’s Degree in Community Psychology and a Senior Executive Certificate in State and Local Government from the Harvard Kennedy School, have further prepared me to lead with knowledge, vision, and expertise.

To build a “Strong Glenwood” and learn more about the Glenwood Strong Party, I invite you to visit our website: www.glenwoodstrongparty.org and follow/like us on Facebook. Discover ways to support, volunteer, and stay connected as we work together toward a brighter future.

I ask for your trust and your vote on April 1, 2025, for the mayor of Glenwood. Let’s move forward with strong, experienced new leadership. Together, we can make Glenwood stronger than ever!

For over 20 years, my husband William and I have proudly called Glenwood home. This long-standing connection fuels my understanding of our community’s needs and my commitment to a brighter future.

Community service is the foundation of my life and career. I’ve inspired future leaders as a Girl Scout troop leader in Glenwood for six years and earned recognition from the Brookwood Point Homeowner Association for my dedication to our community.

safety, prosperity, and opportunity for everyone.

Get Involved

LIMITED SEATING

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

Edwin King 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

C l i c k t h i s l i n k G l e n w o o d V i l l a g e

f o r a l l O r d i n a n c e s

B R O O K W O O D

P O I N T

HOMEOWNERS ASSOCIATION HOLIDAY PARTY WEDNESDAY, DEC. 4 th

6 PM

JOIN US FOR

FOOD

MUSIC

Election of Officers Dues paid members may vote Dues are $36 annually

HOLIDAY GIFT IDEAS

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!

CLICK ON THE LINKS BELOW TO DISCOVER MORE GIFT IDEAS Is there an app to find Black-owned businesses?

BLAPP

BLAPP makes it easy for you to find and support Black-owned businesses across the US. Once you find something that you love, you can jump to Etsy or Yelp to purchase or book it. Our mission is to support all Black-owned businesses and business owners. We achieve this through innovative technology.

Black owned businesses have grown significantly in recent years, but they still make up a small share of firms and revenue in the country. That’s according to an analysis conducted by the Pew Research Center, which looked at Census Bureau data.

According to their research, nearly six-in-10 Black adults say supporting Black businesses is an effective strategy for moving Black individuals toward equality in the United States. Supporting Black-owned businesses, or “buying Black,” can be done year-round, and retailers have tried to center consumers on when they are “buying Black.”

BLACK OWNED BUSINESSES - LINK

LULAS FLORAL AND GIFTS

JEAN LEWIS FINE ART CANDISCOBBLERSNCAKES

SOARCOUTURE Give Black This Holiday

100+ Black-Owned Businesses to Support Today and Always

AROUND TOWN FOR THE HOLIDAYS

Best Chicago Christmas Events 2024

Chicago Holiday Events Guide 2024

Visit Chicago Southland Christmas Events

Holiday Theater in Chicago 2024

Jazz & Blues -Chicago 2024 Holiday

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.

In the stillness of a winter's night, A star shone brightly, pure and white.

Guiding wise men from afar, To a humble stable under that star.

In a manger, soft and low, Lay a child in gentle glow.

Angels sang from heaven's height, Proclaiming peace and love's delight.

Shepherds left their flocks behind, To seek the Savior, God-designed.

In this holy birth, hope was born, On that blessed Christmas morn.

Let hearts be merry, voices sing, Of joy and wonder this birth did bring.

For in this child, so small and mild, Lies the love of Heaven, reconciled.