GLENWOOD DID YOU KNOW... OCT. 2024

OCTOBER 2024

ISSUE ISSUE # #9 9

G GL LE EN NW WO OO OD D

DID YOU KNOW... www.glenwooddidyouknow.com www.glenwooddidyouknow.com

E E E S D L L R O O W E E H H T LEETTT

“LET THE WORLD SEE”

-Mamie Till - Mobley

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

Mamie Till- Mobley was a mother, educator, fellow church member, and friend. I’ve had the honor of listening to her share Emmett's story with my children, students, and church.

Mamie’s son, Emmett Till was just a child when he was kidnapped, tortured, and murdered by white supremacists in the Jim Crow South in 1955. They tried to cover it up. Mamie insisted that the world know what they did to her son. She bravely shared Emmett’s story with all who would listen -and fueled a movement that changed the nation.

Much progress has been made since 1955; however, Mamie Till-Mobley’s work is far from over. In order to continue her work, let the world see that we value the brave sacrifices of the past.

Let the world see us inform young and old on the importance of registering to vote and making our voices heard on civil rights, education, housing, business, healthcare and other issues that will impact our future.

Let the world see changing seasons mirror the transformation of society, moving from a state of inequality towards a more just future.

Let the world see as leaves falling together create a beautiful spectacle, the power of a unified movement can bring about significant change.

Let the world see women of courage, resilience, and strength honored on Oct. 5th for continuing Mamie Till-Mobley’s journey for civil rights and fighting for the democracy we all deserve by securing the right to vote and dismantling barriers to the ballot box.

Women of Courage Awards Oct. 5, 2024

VICE PRESIDENTIAL CANDIDATE

VICE PRESIDENTIAL CANDIDATE

Tim Walz

JD Vance

Tim Walz is in his second term as Minnesota

JD Vance was elected to the US Senate

governor and chairs the Democratic

from Ohio in 2022 after receiving a

Governors Association. A onetime high

boost from Donald Trump in a

school teacher and football coach who served

contentious Republican primary. A

in the Army National Guard, Walz later spent

venture capitalist and the author of the

12 years in Congress, representing a

best-selling memoir “Hillbilly Elegy,”

conservative-leaning rural district in Southern

Vance had once been a key voice in

Minnesota. Walz had been an outspoken

the “Never Trump” movement during

defender of Joe Biden, but when the president dropped out, he endorsed Harris and has since emerged as a reliable, energetic and cutting advocate for the campaign.

Read more about Waltz here. Click link

the 2016 election. But he later became a leading MAGA proponent, courting the former president at meetings in Mar-a-Lago and through appearances on Fox News.

Read more about Vance. Click link

Harris/Waltz Promises

Trump/Vance Promises

Kamala Harris-Economic Opportunity Plan

Donald Trump - Economic Plan

VICE PRESIDENTIAL DEBATE Tuesday, Oct. 1, 2024 8 PM CT

YOUR VOTE MATTERS

VOTING ELECTION INFO LINKS

EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT VOTING Check Your Registration

Win with Black Women

Register to Vote Vote By Mail See What’s on Your Ballot Get Election Reminders

Win with Black Men

Pledge to Register

What are key deadlines for the November 2024 election?

Registration deadlines In person during early voting : Sep 26 - Nov 4 In person at designated location on Election Day : Nov 5 Online : Oct 20 by 11:59 p.m. CDT By mail (postmarked by) : Oct 8 Absentee ballot deadlines Request ballot (received by) : Oct 31 Return ballot by mail (postmarked by) : Nov 5 Return ballot in person : Nov 5 by 7:00 p.m.

CST Voting deadlines Early voting : varies by location In-person : Nov 5

Sisters Lead Sisters Vote

Illinois Online Registration

CBS SUNDAY MORNING REALITY CHECKER

How Divided is America Really?

Reality Checker - The Economy

GLENWOOD’S NEWEST GENERATION OF LEADERS

C CO ON NG GR RA AT TU UL LA AT T II O ON NS S tt o o A Am me e rr ii c ca a ’’ s s n ne ew we es s tt v vo o tt e e rr s s !!

Pastor Nellie Briggs and volunteers conducted voter registration with high school students in the Southlands.

Students are empowered to make their voice heard in the historic 2024 election.

online voter registration QR code

Creating Pathways and Access for Student Success Foundation

We are excited to announce that the CPASS Foundation’s Chicago Area Health and Medical Careers Program™ (CAHMCP) is now accepting applications for the 20242025 academic year! We invite eligible students to apply for one of our five impactful initiatives, each designed to support Underrepresented in Medicine (URiM) students on their journey toward a successful health or medical career.

Please share this opportunity with anyone you know who may be interested in pursuing a health or medical career.

Why Apply?

Comprehensive Support: Access Kaplan® test prep courses tailored to help you excel in your health career exams.

Financial Assistance: Receive reimbursement for test registration fees and residency interviewing expenses, reducing the financial burden on your journey.

Available Initiatives (see website/application for requirements) 1. STEP Access Initiative a. Benefits: Free access to USMLE® Kaplan® Step test prep courses 2. Step Pathway Initiative a. Benefits: Reimbursement for USMLE® Step test registration fees 3. MCAT Resource Access Program a. Benefits: Free Kaplan® MCAT Complete 7-Book Test Prep 4. Test Prep + Professional Development Initiative a. Benefits: Access to test prep courses for major health professional school entrance exams (MCAT, GRE, DAT, PANCE, NCLEX, & others) and professional development seminars.

5. Residency Interviewing Resources a. Benefits: Reimbursement for ERAS® fees and residency interviewing expenses.

How to Apply?

Start your application today by visiting our website: CAHMCP. Slots are limited and filled on a first-come, first-served basis, so we encourage you to apply as soon as possible.

We’re here to support you every step of the way. If you have any questions or need assistance with your application, please contact us at (844) 79C-PASS or respond to this email.

Tracie Screven Associate Director T: (312) 761 1494 F: (312) 270 8339 E: tracie@cpassfoundation.org A: 180 N. Michigan Ave | Suite 1200 | Chicago | IL | 60601 W: www.cpassfoundation.org

O O Autumn, Autumn, Autumn!

Autumn!

Effie Effie Lee Lee Newsome Newsome 1885 1885 –1979 –1979

O O Autumn, Autumn, Autumn!

Autumn! O O pensive pensive light light and and wistful wistful sound! sound!

Gold-haunted Gold-haunted sky, sky, green-haunted green-haunted ground! ground!

When, When, wan, wan, the the dead dead leaves leaves flutter flutter by by Deserted Deserted realms realms of of butterfly! butterfly!

When When robins robins band band themselves themselves together together To To seek seek the the sound sound of of sun-steeped sun-steeped weather; weather; And And all all of of summer’s summer’s largesse largesse goes goes For For lands lands of of olive olive and and the the rose! rose!

Effie Lee Newsome was born in 1885 in Philadelphia. One of the first African American poets who primarily published poems for children, she was the author of one volume of poetry, Gladiola Garden (The Associated Publishers, 1940).

GLENWOOD’S GLENWOOD’S NEWEST NEWEST GENERATION GENERATION OF OF LEADERS LEADERS

Elijah Hines

Marian Catholic H.S. Illinois State University Kinesiology, B.S. DePaul University Cybersecurity I attended Marian Catholic High School in 2019 before going on to complete my bachelors degree in Kinesiology at Illinois State University in 2023. Currently, I am pursuing a master’s degree in cybersecurity at DePaul University.

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

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

As a career changer to the information technology industry, the biggest obstacle was the steep learning curve, particularly in mastering technical skills and keeping up with evolving threats. Overcoming this required structured learning through certifications, hands-on labs, and seeking mentorship. I would highly encourage young people to pursue the field due to its rapid growth, job security, and competitive salaries.

Information Technology offers constant learning opportunities and the chance to make a real-world impact by protecting individuals and organizations from cyber threats.

What are the most important areas of concern that the presidential candidates should focus on for young people under 35 beginning their college/career journey? Presidential candidates should focus on issues that resonate with young people under 35, including affordable education and student loan reform, job creation, and workforce development to combat underemployment. Addressing the housing affordability crisis, expanding access to healthcare and mental health services, and taking decisive action on climate change are key concerns. Candidates should also prioritize income equality, digital privacy, social justice, and support for entrepreneurship, while ensuring greater access to voting and civic engagement. These areas reflect the desire for economic stability, sustainability, and social equity.

What advice would you give the presidential candidates on appealing to African American men? To appeal to African American men, presidential candidates should prioritize criminal justice reform, focusing on police accountability and mass incarceration, while also addressing economic empowerment through job creation, wage equity, and support for small businesses. Expanding access to affordable education, healthcare, and mental health services is vital, as is tackling systemic racism in housing, education, and the workforce. Candidates should also focus on community safety, gun violence prevention, and voting rights protection, while ensuring representation and sustained engagement with African American communities to build trust and credibility.

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

Young people today face significant obstacles, including economic uncertainty from rising student debt and a challenging job market, as well as unaffordable housing. Mental health struggles are on the rise, driven by academic pressures, social media, and financial instability. They are also deeply concerned about climate change and the lack of action to address it. Additionally, political and social polarization, along with the challenges of navigating a digital world filled with privacy concerns, further complicate their path to a stable and prosperous future.

This is an election year and many young people are not interested in voting. Many young people are apathetic about voting as though their vote won't count. What advice would you offer young people?

To young people who feel apathetic about voting, I would stress that their vote absolutely matters. Elections shape the policies and decisions that directly impact their lives, from education and job opportunities to healthcare and climate change. By voting, young people have the power to influence the future and hold leaders accountable. While the system may seem flawed, sitting out only allows others to make decisions on their behalf.

Collective action has historically led to meaningful change, and young voters have the numbers to sway outcomes on issues that are critical to their generation. Voting is an essential tool for making their voices heard and ensuring their interests are represented.

What advice/suggestions would you give young people as they embark upon college/career? As you embark on college or a career, be open to exploration and embrace lifelong learning. Build meaningful connections, develop strong time management skills, and seek real-world experience through internships or part-time work. Prioritize your mental and physical well-being, and understand the importance of financial literacy. Stay resilient in the face of setbacks and don’t be afraid to pivot if your path changes. Focus on long-term goals, but enjoy the journey, knowing that growth and adaptation are part of the process.

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

Work-life balance in IT is possible, though it varies by role. Many jobs offer flexibility like remote work, but some positions may require off-hours availability for urgent issues.

Personally, I maintain balance by setting boundaries, managing my time efficiently, and using tools to streamline tasks, allowing for productivity and personal time.

Interest/Hobbies?

My interests and hobbies include reading, watching sports, watching movies, and exercising.

SEPTEMBER 15 - OCTOBER 15 National Hispanic Heritage Month is annually celebrated from September 15 to October 15 in the United States for recognizing the contributions and influence of Hispanic Americans to the history, culture, and achievements of the United States. Wikipedia National Hispanic Heritage Month (Spanish: Mes nacional de la herencia hispana) is annually celebrated from September 15 to October 15 in the United States for recognizing the contributions and influence of Hispanic Americans to the history, culture, and achievements of the United States.[1][2] History [edit] National Hispanic Heritage Week was established by legislation sponsored by Rep. George Brown Jr. of Los Angeles and signed into law by President Lyndon Johnson in 1968,[3][4][5] taking place on the week including both September 15 and 16.[6] In 1988, the commemorative week was expanded to a month (September 15 to October 15) by legislation sponsored by Rep. Esteban Torres (D–CA), amended by Senator Paul Simon, and signed into law by President Ronald Reagan.[3] September 15 was chosen as the starting point for the commemoration because it is the anniversary of the Cry of Dolores (early morning, 16 September 1810), which marked the start of the Mexican War of Independence and thus resulted (in 1821) in independence for the New Spain Colony (now Mexico and the Central American nations of Guatemala, El Salvador, Costa Rica, Honduras, and Nicaragua) which became the Federal Republic of Central America.

The 30-day period also includes many dates of importance in the Hispanic community: Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, and Nicaragua celebrate their anniversary of independence on September 15; Mexico commemorates its independence on September 16; Chile commemorates its independence on September 18; and the celebration Columbus Day or Día de la Raza.

[7] Hispanic Heritage Week was first proclaimed by President Johnson in 1968 in Presidential Proclamation 3869.[8] Presidents Nixon, Ford, Carter, and Reagan gave annual proclamations for Hispanic Heritage Week between 1969 and 1988. National Hispanic Heritage Month was first proclaimed by President George H. W. Bush on September 14, 1989, in Presidential Proclamation 6021.

[9] Since 1989, all Presidents have given a Presidential Proclamation to mark Hispanic Heritage Month.[10] Military commemorations [edit] National Hispanic Heritage Month is a time for the U.S. Military to honor both fallen and active-duty Hispanic Americans who served in the armed forces. Sixty-one people of Hispanic heritage have been awarded the Medal of Honor, two were presented to members of the Navy, 13 to members of the U.S. Marine Corps, and 46 to members of the U.S. Army.[11] During the month, the U.S. Army commemorates the longstanding and remarkable contributions that Hispanics have made in building and defending the nation.[12] As of September 2018, 136,000 Hispanic soldiers serve, composing 13.8 percent of the Army. According to the official Army website, the goal during Hispanic Heritage Month is to celebrate the diverse and inclusive environment of the U.S. Army. Through coordinated efforts throughout the Army, this observance will be used to inform Army audiences and celebrate the contributions of Hispanic soldiers, civilians, and their families.[12] The representation of Hispanic Americans on active duty has increased by 10 percentage points during the past 30 years. In 1985, it was three percent, and by 2016 it was 13.7 percent.[13] The U.S. Navy celebrates Hispanic Heritage Month by honoring sailors of Hispanic heritage whose military service dates back to the Civil War. As of June 2018, approximately 59,000 active and reserve sailors of Hispanic heritage serve in the U.S. Navy and Marines.[11]

Hispanic Heritage Month

23 Influential Hispanic Americans Who Have Made History For Hispanic Heritage Month, discover the accomplishments and lasting legacy of these politicians, entertainers, scientists, and activists.

Hispanic Americans have long contributed to politics, science, movies and TV, the arts, and sports, among many other industries. Latin American talent includes musicians who have exploded onto the scene like Bad Bunny did in the mid-2010s and politicians like Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, who became the youngest woman elected to Congress.

Famous Hispanic actors have taken on beloved fictional roles, like Jenna Ortega did with the iconic character Wednesday Addams, and made Emmys history as Pedro Pascal did after becoming the first Latino to be nominated in the lead actor category in 25 years. And some Hispanic Americans are known for creating masterful works of art like Lin-Manuel Miranda did with his Broadway hit Hamilton.

All of these accomplishments center the stories and experiences of the Latinx community to entertain mass audiences and, in some cases, help shape American history. To celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month, which runs from September 15 through October 15, get to know some of the most notable Latin American figures who have influenced pop culture, politics, and beyond.

Notable Hispanic-Americans

BEAUTIFICATION - C.U.P.P. CLEAN UP

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

PAINT

PLANT

Click the link Why Gardening is Good for Mental Health

BPHA BEAUTIFICATION COMMITTEE Lovey & Robert Maddox Residents: 43 years How long have you two worked on gardening projects/ideas? That's funny.

I’ve always done my yard for over 40 years. When I was younger, I didn't do it as much due to working.

What would be your ideas for beautifying our community? To keep it beautiful, you have to keep it clean. It doesn’t take much to pull weeds, cut grass, scrape peeling paint, trim shrubs, remove garbage cans from the front lawn, and there are inexpensive plants that can beautify and increase our property value.

Young people are the future. If they participate, the community won’t die. If every generation contributes and participates the community will thrive. When only a few people are working, the community won’t withstand it. We must work together.

Would a village/school beautification project benefit the community? A beautification project would be good for teaching our children how to sustain property value and it will teach them how to pass down generational wealth.

Hobbies: I love to decorate inside and outside. I love to shop.

Patrice & James Owens Residents: 40 years How long have you two worked on gardening projects/ideas?

Since the age of 10 years. My grandma in Jamaica, along with my parents, taught me to garden. We planted various flowers and vegetables. My mom could grow anything she planted.

What would be your ideas for beautifying our community? I would reach out to the neighborhood. For us to have a predominantly Black area, I like that we’re willing to band together as a community to keep it looking nice. I love having neighbors that I can call on who will work with others to get the job done.

Are there any mental/relaxing benefits of gardening? Absolutely. It will calm your spirit. When you look back at what you’ve done, you can say, ‘Look at God”.

What advice would you give people interested in gardening but unsure where/how to begin? If you have neighbors who keep their property clean, tell them thank you and get advice on what you need and how you need to do it. As a community, we share our knowledge. I can always reach out to Lovee and Robert for information. Our community has neighbors with a wealth of information ready and willing to share.

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

Brookwood Point Homeowners Association Meeting Wednesday, Oct. 2, 2024 HICKORY GLEN FIELDHOUSE 192nd & Minerva @ 7PM

GOOD GOOD NEIGHBOR NEIGHBOR AWARD AWARD RECOGNITION RECOGNITION

‘Participation Strengthens a Community’

Join today - Dues $36 per household - annually

LIGHT REFRESHMENTS WILL BE SERVED

Top Issues Facing Glenwood Residents - Survey Please click the link or scan QR code to take the survey https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSe4A4UICl8Vp5Fs eAD-_gFqLyGC_EJijXsPGN54q5jY2BNbDA/viewform?pli=1

ENVIRONMENTAL - WATER & AIR STREETS FIRE & EMS TRANSPARENCY LIGHTING INFRASTRUCTURE LEADERSHIP FINANCES OF THE VILLAGES SENIOR & YOUTH PROGRAMS ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT CRIME & PUBLIC SAFETY

Ed Hadnott Former Trustee Op-Ed

You may have noticed that the rat or rats were out at the firehouse and the Village Hall in the last year. The reason they were there is that non union labor was being used and that there are non-prevailing wages being paid to those workers that are competing in the project.

The Illinois Prevailing Wage Act requires any Public Work done by a Public Body to comply with the Act. The Act requires all contractors, subcontractors, laborers to be paid prevailing wage in the County where the work is being performed.

If a Public Body fails to provide proper written notification to a contractor that it is subject to the Prevailing Wage Act, Section 4 (A-3) holds the Public Body financially responsible for any interest, fines or penalties assessed by the Illinois Department of Labor.

TIF Funds do not qualify as Public Funds. However, if a project is undertaken by a Public Body in whole or in part then the project and the Public Body is subject to the Prevailing Wage Act.

Ed Hadnott Former Trustee

AIDA DE JESUS JACKSON & KURT JACKSON Glenwood Estates 10+ yrs Entrepreneurs Lulas Floral & Gifts Floral Design Instructor What attracted you to open your business in Glenwood?

What attracted me to Glenwood is that I’ve lived here for over a decade, and I’m passionate about giving back to the community. By creating jobs, not only will it benefit our business, but it will also contribute to Glenwood's local economy through business taxes and provide employment opportunities, especially for teens, helping to keep them off the streets.

How did you become interested in floral and gifts?

I worked in education as an operations manager but always had a passion for weddings and events. During COVID, when the world came to a standstill, we needed a way to generate more income while also giving back during such an unprecedented time. My husband and a friend suggested I start doing floral work, and that’s when the idea took off.

That’s how Lula’s Floral and Gifts was born.

What motivated you to become a small business owner? Would you encourage young people to pursue the field? Why or why not?

I’ve had an entrepreneurial spirit since my teenage years. I’ve always been skilled with my hands, from crocheting to making jewelry and more. Even after earning my bachelor’s degree, I realized that the traditional academic path wasn’t the right fit for me.

What do you like most about the business?

Being able to serve and give back to my community.

Would you encourage young people to pursue this field? Yes, I would encourage young people to find their niche, commit to it, and work to excel in it. Why? Because it's better to discover your passion early on rather than spending time and money on courses only to realize it’s not what truly drives you.

How did you derive the name Lula for the business?

We named it after my late grandmother to honor the amazing woman she was to me and so many others, and to keep her legacy alive.

Small businesses often face challenges. What challenges, if any, have you encountered?

One of the biggest challenges has been not receiving financial support to open a business in my community.

Additionally, some floral wholesalers won’t give you an opportunity if you don’t have a brick-and-mortar location.

What advice would you give young people interested in becoming an entrepreneur?

Never give up. Keep pushing for what you believe in, no matter the obstacles.

Why are small businesses important to the community's economy?.

I believe creating jobs; it wouldn’t also benefit my business. It contributes to the local economy through business taxes and providing employment opportunities for teens by helping to keep them off the streets.

135 Main St.

Sweetest Day- October 19th is a day to share romantic deeds or expressions, and acts of charity and kindness.

Small businesses often face challenges. What challenges, if any, have you encountered?

One of the biggest challenges has been not receiving financial support to open a business in my community.

Additionally, some floral wholesalers won’t give you an opportunity if you don’t have a brick-and-mortar location.

What advice would you give young people interested in becoming an entrepreneur?

Never give up. Keep pushing for what you believe in, no matter the obstacles.

Why are small businesses important to the community's economy?.

I believe creating jobs; it wouldn’t also benefit my business. It contributes to the local economy through business taxes and providing employment opportunities for teens by helping to keep them off the streets.

What advice would you give the presidential candidates on how to improve small businesses' success rate?

The advice: create more funding for small businesses and clarify stipulations so hey are in black and white.

Black and brown business owners do not get the funding as well as tax breaks needed.

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

No free after school programs. With high taxes in our community, you would think our children would have access to programs. Young people aren’t staying busy with programs that should be provided. They aren’t staying actively engaged due to lack of programs in the community.

This is an election year and many young people are not interested in voting. Many young people are apathetic about voting as though their vote won't count. What advice would you offer young people?

We need to let them know that our vote does count and the way to inform our future. There’s a way for people to hear our voice to make a change in the world and our community.

Is there a work life balance, if so, what is yours? I battle with this. We all battle with it.

I try to take two days out of the week off and dedicate them to my family.

paragraph text FLORAL DESIGN Your CLASSES AVAILABLE

www.Lulasfloralandgifts.com

Weddings

Proms

WWW.EVENTSBYAIDA.COM Corporate Events

Organizations

DARIUS DARIUS & & CANDIS CANDIS JONES JONES Residents of 7 years Parents of two Grocery Retail Manager Supervisor Physical Therapist Assistant Candis’ Cobbler & Cakes Bakery Owner Role Models Mentors Passion for Arts and Media Painting and Drawing What attracted you to Glenwood?

The lower taxes, low crime rate, cleanliness and proximity of family.

Darius : I graduated from college in 2008 at the beginning of the recession. I went into restaurant management.

I lost my dad in 2010 and needed to earn money right away, so I went into the retail business.

Candis: I began Candis’ Cobblers & Cakes in 2015 while working as a Physical Therapist Assistant. I was furloughed due to Covid-19, which allowed me more time to focus on my bakery and young family.

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

Candis: I like helping people and making them happy at the end of the day by getting you back to your best self and feeding your soul delicious desserts. Dislikes - working Darius: I like to see the growth and development of team members. To see team members' confidence build over time is fulfilling in my field.

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

Darius: Work life balance is the biggest obstacle due to the demand of the business- late nights, overnights, weekends, and holidays. We are asked to manage both while at work and outside of work and that can take a toll at times. I was fortunate enough to make a lateral move that would allow time with my family. The company didn’t make it the easiest move but it was done.

Candis: as a small business owner, you come across many obstacles. You’re the baker, accountant, and the marketing department in which I'm learning all on my own. I overcome it by trial and error, family support, and reaching out to online mentors.

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

Candis: Yes physical therapist assistant and bakery owner. The Physical Therapist Assistant program is a two year associate program that you can enroll in with a high school degree and make a living wage a couple years out of high school. Many people don’t even know about the field. The job outlook is high for a Physical Therapist Assistant and there are plenty of settings such as nursing homes, hospitals, schools, outpatient clinics and more.

The sky's the limit with baking. There are so many avenues. You can set your own prices.. You get a lot of freedom and flexibility.

Darius - I encourage young people because of the benefits and perks. If you have a family, it can conflict with your schedule. It’s perfect for someone who is single.

What are the most important areas of concern that the presidential candidates should focus on for young families?

We need incentives for families. I’m a huge fan of the nuclear family. There should be compensation for the first home first child. Daycare assistance for middle class families. There’s already a lot of programs for lower class families and it would be great to include the middle class too. Young families are going into debt due to daycare or one parent now has to stay home because of the cost, which reduces the family from a 2 income household to a 1 income household. The work day should be cut down to four from five to allow more time for family.

What advice would you give the presidential candidates on appealing to African American men?

Darius: Don’t appeal to African American men, just go and get results that will allow us the same advantages and opportunities from U.S. companies without bias.

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

Darius: The inflation is rough and taxing on a family. The cost of living. The lack of knowledge of different career choices - career and vocational schools need to come back. You don’t see many of the vocational schools today. You don’t even see them in the movies anymore. Young people are lost because there isn’t any direction. They’re only going to be what they see. If they only see teachers, lawyers, doctors, etc. that’s only what young people strive to achieve, but there are plenty of career paths that people can embark on that they just don't know about.

This is an election year and many young people are not interested in voting. Many young people are apathetic about voting as though their vote won't count.

What advice would you offer young people?

I would suggest young people do their due diligence to study the federal vote and the outcome and how it affects your vote will affect you locally. Once they understand how the federal vote works you can do better.

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

Darius: be certain of what you want to and be intentional from there. Align yourself with people who are in those fields and have tunnel vision. Also, take advantage of the power of networking as it can open up doors that may be more beneficial to you.

Candis: Plan and research as many careers as you can and broaden your scope.

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

Darius: In retail there isn’t, and that's one reason I decided to change my position at work. I really would love to have a proper work life balance that would allow me to serve myself, my family ,and my community.

Candis: Yes, in physical therapy there is flexibility depending on the setting you work in. A Home bakery allows flexibility in your workload and schedule which allows you more time with family and complete household tasks.

Interest/Hobbies?

Darius: I am a role model and mentor at heart. I have a strong passion for the arts and media. I'm working on a mini series, Open Mic sessions, and I write scripts. With a better work life balance, I can do a lot more.

I am interested in my community and its government as well . I was hurt from work recently so I had enough time to sit in the village board and HOA meetings.

Candis: Painting & Drawing. My skills grow the more I practice.

Sweetest Day- October 19th is a day to share romantic deeds or expressions, and acts of charity and kindness.

Candis Jones Hi. I’m the owner and baker of Candis’ Cobblers & Cakes, established in 2015. I began baking at the age of 10 when I sold my first bag of cookies to classmates and teachers.

My children and customers’ testimonials drive me. I’m married with two small children. It is my goal to leave my children a legacy.

Customers say my pound cake reminds them of their late grandparent’s cake or home down south. It warms their heart, and mine as well because I was able to give that experience.

When I’m not baking, I like to relax on the couch with my husband and catch up on our shows or go out to a local bar and grill.

THE BLACK FOODIES Congratulations to Glenwood’s own Dino and Ms. Coretta on another exciting year of dining and travel!

Recently, they were guests speakers at the Glenwood-Lynwood Library sharing how The Black Foodies began, their love for food and travel, and the secret to staying fit while dining on delicious food.

The Black Foodies have a loyal following. Food lovers from near and far enjoyed the food adventure on the sold out bus tours and food sampling of Chicago’s Black owned restaurants.

Celebrate Sweetest Day dining at one of The Black Foodies recommended restaurants.

Stay tuned to TBF social media for upcoming events.

Sweetest Day- October 19th is a day to share romantic deeds or expressions, and acts of charity and kindness.

T H A N K

Y O U

GLENWOOD ESTATES HOMEOWNERS ASSOCIATION FOR ANOTHER YEAR OF FAMILY FUN FOOD GIVEAWAYS

Nellie Briggs, President Gerald McCullough, Vice President Constance Watson III, Treasurer Evelyn Lewis, Secretary Roderick Murdock, Sergeant at Arms

FIRE & POLICE COMMISSIONER

Did you know: The fire chief and his accomplice (village administrator) presented the ordinance to decommission the Fire and Police Commission only hours before the board meeting- at the last minute? (what a tactic). Fortunately, the Commission caught it the first time. Then, the mayor caught the second attempt months later. Do they think our trustees are stupid or do they control our board?

Did you know: Chief Welsh’s Key Man was fired for secretly video taping the women’s locker room and the related court case was dismissed. (per Chicago Tribune) Did you know: The fire department is made up of part-timers and cadets. We do NOT have any full- time fighters.

Did you know: The Chief’s reorganization of the fire department is not going well.

Did you know: The Fire Chief, Kevin Welsh, controls the outsourced ambulance service.

Did you know: The Chief has ordered a new fire station construction and a new fire truck. ($milliions$) Did you know: The village water system needs replacing. ($milliions$) Did you know: The Village Administrator, Brian Mitchell, does not have a budget after more than two years.

Stay tuned Greg Ray

GLENWOOD-LYNWOOD LIBRARY 50th Anniversary Sneaker Ball and Gala Celebration

THANK YOU FOR 50 YEARS OF OUTSTANDING SERVICE TO THE COMMUNITY!

BOOK RECOMMENDATIONS RECOMMENDATIONS by

by Mary Mary DeBose DeBose BOOK RECOMMENDATIONS by Mary DeBose BOOK

Explore Explore Morton Morton Arboretum Arboretum

Cooking Cooking for for Picasso Picasso

Aubry, Aubry, Camille Camille

Sense Sense and and Sensibility Sensibility

Austen, Austen, Jane Jane

Beartown Beartown

Backman, Backman, Fredrik Fredrik

The The Elegance Elegance of of the the Hedgehog Hedgehog

Barbery,Muriel Barbery,Muriel

Jane Jane and and the the Stillroom Stillroom Maid Maid

Barron, Barron, Stephanie Stephanie

Fall Fall Activities Activities in Illinois Illinois in

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

EYES ON ON EYES ON EYES THE PRIZE PRIZE THE PRIZE THE YOUR YOUR VOTE VOTE YOUR YOUR POWER POWER

AIN’T GONNA GONNA LET LET II AIN’T NOBODY TURN TURN ME ME NOBODY AROUND AROUND