GLENWOOD DID YOU KNOW... JULY 2024 ISSUE#6

JULY 2024

ISSUE #6

GLENWOOD DID YOU KNOW...

www.glenwooddidyouknow.com

F I R S T

M A R T Y R

CRISPUS ATTUCKS - FIRST TO DIE FOR THE U.S. -AMERICAN REVOLUNTIONARY WAR

Crispus Attucks - the first to die for the U.S.

*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

The United States of America celebrates Independence Day on the Fourth of July.

Many people of color do not celebrate the day because they feel that the day isn’t celebrating their independence. Although this may be true, one can still be inspired by the progress made upon reflection of the historic bravery of African American men and women who have fought in every war since the American Revolution.

Crispus Attucks is considered to be the First Martyr for the country’s independence.

The courage, leadership, and skills of Peter Salem, Titus Coburn, Salem Poor Seymour Burr, and Peter Hunter should inspire us to keep fighting for independence in our country for housing, fair wages, health care, and respect for all.

While there are many challenges, we can be encouraged by those who went before us and do our best to leave the world a better place for future generations. *Click on the blue links to discover more about the extraordinary men who helped the United States of America gain its Independence!.

We the People of the United States, in Order to form a more perfect Union, establish Justice, insure domestic Tranquility, provide for the common defence, promote the general Welfare, and secure the Blessings of Liberty to ourselves and our Posterity, do ordain and establish this Constitution for the United States of America.

Article I We the People - Schoolhouse Rock Section 1 All legislative Powers herein granted shall be vested in a Congress of the United States, which shall consist of a Senate and House of Representatives.

Section 2 1: The House of Representatives shall be composed of Members chosen every second Year by the People of the several States, and the Electors in each State shall have the Qualifications requisite for Electors of the most numerous Branch of the State Legislature.

2: No Person shall be a Representative who shall not have attained to the Age of twenty five Years, and been seven Years a Citizen of the United States, and who shall not, when elected, be an Inhabitant of that State in which he shall be chosen.

3: Representatives and direct Taxes shall be apportioned among the several States which may be included within this Union, according to their respective Numbers, which shall be determined by adding to the whole Number of free Persons, including those bound to Service for a Term of Years, and excluding Indians not taxed, three fifths of all other Persons. The actual Enumeration shall be made within three Years after the first Meeting of the Congress of the United States, and within every subsequent Term of ten Years, in such Manner as they shall by Law direct. The Number of Representatives shall not exceed one for every thirty Thousand, but each State shall have at Least one Representative; and until such enumeration shall be made, the State of New Hampshire shall be entitled to chuse three, Massachusetts eight, Rhode-Island and Providence Plantations one, Connecticut five, New-York six, New Jersey four, Pennsylvania eight, Delaware one, Maryland six, Virginia ten, North Carolina five, South Carolina five, and Georgia three.

4: When vacancies happen in the Representation from any State, the Executive Authority thereof shall issue Writs of Election to fill such Vacancies.

5: The House of Representatives shall chuse their Speaker and other Officers; and shall have the sole Power of Impeachment.

Section 3 1: The Senate of the United States shall be composed of two Senators from each State, chosen by the Legislature thereof, for six Years; and each Senator shall have one Vote.

2: Immediately after they shall be assembled in Consequence of the first Election, they shall be divided as equally as may be into three Classes. The Seats of the Senators of the first Class shall be vacated at the Expiration of the second Year, of the second Class at the Expiration of the fourth Year, and of the third Class at the Expiration of the sixth Year, so that one third may be chosen every second Year; and if Vacancies happen by Resignation, or otherwise, during the Recess of the Legislature of any State, the Executive thereof may make temporary Appointments until the next Meeting of the Legislature, which shall then fill such Vacancies.

3: No Person shall be a Senator who shall not have attained to the Age of thirty Years, and been nine Years a Citizen of the United States, and who shall not, when elected, be an Inhabitant of that State for which he shall be chosen.

Constitution - source

B l a c k

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Scout who used no chart First man to die For the flag we now hold high (Crispus Attucks)Helped lead lewis and clark Was a redman Was a black man Use of martial arts The ground where we stand In our country got its start With the flag held in our hand By a yellow man Was first the redman's And the leader with a pen Guide of a ship On the first Columbus trip (pedro alonzo nino) Signed his name to free all men Was a white man Was a brown man We pledge allegiance The railroads for trains All our lives Came on tracking that was laid To the magic colors By the yellow man Red, blue and white We pledge allegiance But we all must be given All our lives The liberty that we defend To the magic colors For with justice not for all men Red, blue and white History will repeat again But we all must be given It's time we learned The liberty that we defend This world was made for all men For with justice not for all men God saved his world for all men History will repeat again All people It's time we learned All babies This world was made for all men All children Heart surgery All colors Was first done successfully All races By a black man This world's for you Friendly man who died And me But helped the pilgrims to survive This world Was a redman My world Farm workers rights Your world Were lifted to new heights Everybody's world By a brown man This world Incandescent light Their world Was invented to give sight Our world By the white man This world was made for all men We pledge allegiance Who was the first man to set foot on All our lives the North Pole?

To the magic colors Matthew Henson, a black man Red, blue and white Who was the first American to show But we all must be given the Pilgrims at Plymouth the secrets The liberty that we defend of survival in the new world?

For with justice not for all men Squanto, a red man History will repeat again Who was the soldier of Company G It's time we learned who won high honors for This world was made for all men extraordinary heroism in World War Here me out 1?

Now I know the birthday of a nation Sing Kee, a yellow man Is a time when a country celebrates Who was the leader of united farm But as your hand touches your heart workers and helped farm workers Remember we all played a part in america maintain dignity and respect?

To help that banner wave Caesar Chavez, a brown man First clock to be made Who was the founder of blood In america was created plasma and the director of the Red By a black man Cross blood bank?

Dr. Charles Drew, a black man

W o n d e r Who was the great American heroine who aided the Lewis and Clark expedition?

Sacajewa, a red woman Who was the famous educator and semanticist who made outstanding contributions to education in America?

Hayakawa, a yellow man Who invented the world's first stop light and the gas mask?

Garrett Morgan, a black man Who was the American surgeon who was one of the founders of neurosurgery?

Harvey Williams Cushing, a white man Who was the man who helped design the nation's capital Made the first clock to give time in America and wrote the first almanac?

Benjamin Banneker, a black man Who was the legendary hero who helped establish the League of Iroquois?

Hiawatha, a red man Who was the leader of the first microbiotic center in America?

Micho Kushi, a yellow man Who was the founder of the city of Chicago in 1772?

Jean Baptiste, a black man Who was one of the organizers of the American Indian Movement?

Denis Banks, a red man Who was the Jewish financier who raised funds to sponsor Christopher Columbus' voyage to America?

Lewis D. Santangel, a white man Who was the woman who led countless slaves to freedom on the underground railroad?

Harriet Tubman, a black woman Source: LyricFind Songwriters: Shatema Byrd / Stevie Wonder Black Man lyrics © Sony/ATV Music Publishing LLC

Click on song - Black Man by Stevie Wonder

Highlights from KEYNOTE Speaker

Leon H. Fields, Chairman Underground Railroad Memorial Park

Down through the years our ancestors displayed a great faith.

They were focused on divine intervention. Our History of freedom is a sad story, but it’s one that must be told and taught. Our children must know that although our history is full of dark moments it points to brighter days. A week ago at a Juneteenth Celebration President Biden said Black History is American History, he got it right. I will start at the year 1620 with blacks and whites working as indentured servants. In the Virginia colony three indentured servants two Whites and one Black ran away and were captured, they all received 30 stripes. The two whites were sentenced to serve their masters one additional year and serve the colony three years for a total of four years. The black servant named John Punch was sentenced by the court to serve the rest of his life there or elsewhere.

The door was open for human greed and racism, the Maryland act of 1663 declared all Negroes and other slaves in the Providence or imported into the province and their children shall serve and would remain slaves for the rest of their life for further accounts on common law and constitutional rights and the freedom and liberty or the denial of that liberty of slaves read the book “Slavery in the Courtroom” by Paul Finkelman.

As the African slave trade continued, it is estimated one in every three slaves died, in what is known as the Slave Trade of the Middle Passage. Many Africans died with their faith believing that with death, they would return to their homeland. Speaking of faith, allow me to call the role on some of the Blacks who I consider to be VIPs Crispus Attucks first to die in America for its freedom, Sojourner Truth an abolitionist, and civil rights leader, Nate Turner, who led a rebellion against slavery in Virginia, Frederick Douglas abolitionist, orator, and statesman, Harriet Tubman, the Moses of fugitive slaves who led many by her faith in God out of slavery and eventually led the union army to Carolina to free additional slaves. The list goes on and on, as we stand here in Glenwood at the Underground Railroad Park, we acknowledge those who displayed courage, wisdom, and determination in the movement to freedom, free blacks and whites worked together aiding those slaves to escape from the brutality of slavery to where slavery was illegal. This is our monument to them.

Those aiding the runaway slaves in the underground railroad were ex-slaves, business owners and ministers who supplied food, clothing, protection, and service. We recognize those who help keep the dream of hope alive, ordinary people doing extraordinary things. They got it right.

The slaves found some degree of healing along with coded messages in their songs, as they were sold and separated from their families and brutalized. Songs like ‘Go Down Moses’. With the lyrics ‘Let My People Go’ and other lyrics ‘Before I Be a Slave I’ll Be Rested in My Grave.’ These lyrics and others speak to the opposition and the defiance of slavery and denied the idea that slavery was good for Blacks.

On September 22, 1862 President Abraham Lincoln announced that the emancipation proclamation would go into effect on January 1, 1863 promising freedom to enslave people in all the rebellious parts of Southern states of the confederacy, enforcement of the proclamation came with the advancement of union troops. Texas, as a remote state of the former confederacy, had seen an expansion of slavery because the presence of the union troops was low. The enforcement of the emancipation proclamation had been slow and inconsistent June 19, 1865, was 900 days after the emancipation proclamation went into effect.

On the morning of June 19, 1865 union major General Gordon Granger arrived in Galveston to take command of the more than 2000 federal troops recently landed in the department of Texas to enforce the emancipation of its slave population and oversee reconstruction disrupt all laws passed within Texas during the year by confederate lawmakers the order informed all Texans in accordance with the proclamation from the executive of the United States. All enslaved people were free. The people in Texas were informed that in accordance with a proclamation from the executive of the United States all slaves are free. This involves an absolute equality of personal rights and the relationship between former slaves and masters and the connection becomes that of an employer and hired labor, the Freemen were advised to remain quietly at their present homes, and work for wages.

As we celebrate Juneteenth, let us follow the lead of our ancestors. When those slave ships arrived in Africa and the Africans witnessed their village being burned and were forced onto the slave ships. It is estimated a third died or committed suicide they believed in death they would return to their homeland.

There was a song that lyrics brought comfort in death, speaking of another ship ‘The Old Ship of Zion’ that would take them to an eternal home. There was a bulletin written on June 20, 1878, regarding Juneteenth Celebrations. That stated the color people of Galveston certainly deployed themselves credibly and celebrating their fourth of July so let’s do likewise and let’s bring honor to our ancestors.

Our freedom is in our prayers, in our songs, in our dance, in our religion and churches, in our flag and its colors, in our history and through our ancestors and it is in our souls. Thanks be to God; so let’s celebrate and teach our children not to hate but know we are overcomers. Dare to dream of brighter days.

Remember Never Stop Learning Because Life Never Stops Teaching.

Thank You.

HEAR YE! HEAR YE! THE TAX BILL COMETH The Second Installment of the 2023 tax bill cometh via website https://www.cookcountytreasurer.com/or USPS mail.

Chicago. Historic property tax increases will hit south suburban homeowners’ mailboxes in the coming weeks, according to a new analysis from the Cook County treasurer’s office that found median tax bills there are rising by 19.9% compared with last year, the largest jump in the last 29 years. According to the report, more than 327,500 suburban homeowners who live south of North Avenue will see higher bills this year. About 107,000 south suburban homeowners will see lower bills. Source: Property Tax Hikes A South Suburban resident remains outraged about the 450% tax jump in her taxes, which increased from $1,612 last year to $8,855 this year. She plans to appeal again, though it remains her chances for reassessment remain unclear.

Source: Assessors Office What a shocker!!!! Though tax bills are back on schedule for arriving in time for the August 1st. due date, in most cases, the increase is astronomical!

Hundreds of thousands of homeowners must come up with thousands more dollars to remain in their home. Some homeowners are working several jobs and using credit cards to stay afloat of everyday expenses and now the huge tax hike adds more financial stress..

While taxes continue to increase, many services have decreased. Communities need roads paved and striped, improved infrastructure, senior and youth programs, public safety, clean air, good schools, libraries, parks, and a better quality of life.

Residents must get involved and hold elected officials accountable for prioritizing community needs using taxpayers’ money. This tax bill is indicative of the rough times ahead for south suburban residents. Elected officials must engage residents and residents must avail themselves to work together to survive the economic storm.

We the People have power in our voice and vote to make a difference!

Village Hall meetings: 1st & 3rd Tuesday of the month Brookwood Point 1st Wednesday of the month @ Hickory Glen Fieldhouse - 7PM No July meeting

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

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

ERIC SLAUGHTER CEDA BOARD CHAIR

VILLAGE OF GLENWOOD FINANCE CHAIR There is a board meeting on Tuesday, July 2, 2024 at the Village of Glenwood that I hope that All residents will attend. One of the biggest issues is that the community is Uninvolved in the events taking place in the Village. In speaking with several other Elected Officials in the County it has come to my attention that there is very little oversight in the financial operations of communities like Glenwood and the Only way the attention is spearheaded (like in the case of The City of Dolton), is that the community get involved and outraged by attending village meetings and making their voices known.

Glenwood is a working-class community and therefore most of the residents cannot make most of the meetings; I wonder if this is by design.

Some of the issues the community should be apprised of is the increasing of their taxes which run the Village. The fire department wants to purchase a new fire truck; yes, it is needed, however can the Village afford its purchase? The Villages finances are not up-to par, and we cannot get bank financing at this time. The Finance Committee has requested that the Board hold-off on its purchase until we have a complete and balanced budget as requested by the bank. In our most recent finance committee meeting it was stated that this should take place in/after September as the Village Administrator stated that all finances should be complete by that time. The Village has hired several to assist in its financial updating so this should not be a problem, however we should not spend monies that we don't have in the bank and not borrow from a fund with the hope of replacing some day.

We’re also wondering why the Village continues to fund unprofitable businesses in the village that have no way of repaying their current or future endeavors. Some businesses have come to the Village time and time again requesting TIF funding and extensions of their debt and the Village Trustees and Mayor continue to grant their request. This is YOUR MONEY, Please, Please come to the Village meetings to keep your family informed; we don't want to become like some of our neighboring communities; we MUST hold our Elected Officials accountable.

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 No July meeting

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

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

C l i c k

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

Sec. 62-328. Prohibited conduct.

NO FIRE WORKS Chapter 10ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGES Sec. 10-72.

Parental responsibility

Sec. 110-31. Noxious weeds prohibited; declared a nuisance

Sec. 38-32. 4 e f t h a s o f Ju Enumeration of ea v ly prohibited Ha noises.

afe 4th of s a Ju ve ly a H Sec. 102-33. Obedience to police officers

Sec11.04 Area, display, illumination and content of signs

ED HADNOTT Former Trustee

TIF 101

By now you have received your second installment of 2023 property taxes. Have you wondered how TIFs affect your tax bill? Let us do the math. In tax year 2022 received in 2023 the Village collected a total of $4,689,680.73 from all the seven active TIF Districts in Glenwood. What would have happened to those funds if TIF Districts did not exist?

1. The Village of Glenwood would have received 25.89% of those funds totaling $1,214,158.34 which means that the Village would need 24% less revenue from you the taxpayer.

2. Brookwood District 167 would have received 29.81% which means Brookwood District 167 would have received $1,397,993.80 which means they would have needed less from you the taxpayer.

3. Bloom or H.F High School would have received their allotted portion of property taxes. Bloom is 23.49% which equals $1,101,605.90. HF has a tax rate of 28.69% which equals $1,345,469.30.

4. The Glenwood/Lynwood Library would have received 3.72%. The library would have received $174,456.12.

5. The other taxing bodies would have received their allotted share. TIFs can be helpful but we the people are not benefiting. Here is an example of another incentive commonly provided by the Village of Glenwood known as Class 8. The former Busy Bee now known as Tuscan Gardens is paying $42,682.24 less than the property taxes were 20 years ago. Someone must make up that difference. That someone is you. The Industrial Park TIF has siphoned off $25,478,721.93 from 1991 to 2022. It’s my estimation that TIF Districts which are not beneficial to the people have cost each taxpayer. There is an opinion that homes in and around TIF Districts appreciate. I see NO market evidence that reflects that opinion. There is currently a home on the market in the Manor which is in the South Halsted TIF District. This home pays much less to HF Schools, Brookwood 167, or the Village of Glenwood because 63.92% of the taxes go into the South Halsted TIF instead of going to the other taxing bodies. The Village has wasted TIF funds by making zero percent interest loans to restaurants and forgiving 50% of those loans.

There must be a return on investment on all incentives including TIF Funds.

Top Issues Facing Glenwood Residents - Survey Please click the link to take the survey https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSe4A4UICl8Vp5FseAD_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

ALAN WILSON 42 YEAR RESIDENT fATHER GRANDFATHER U.S. Army Paratrooper CTA RETIREE MENTOR HAT COLLECTOR

I have lived in Glenwood since 1982. I came across Glenwood while living in the city. It was funny. I was looking for a home. We looked in Beverly, Englewood, Roseland. We went to all the communities in Chicago. Then we started going to suburban communities. Then, I said to my wife, “Wait a minute, we go to the meat market out there on Saturdays.” We drove out here because we’d been looking and I was trying to satisfy her. Low and behold, as soon as I came off the expressway, I looked to my right and what used to be just land was now homes. We drove around and sure enough there was a For Sale sign on this one home on 194th Pl. Low and behold that’s where we started in Glenwood in 1982. Back in the 1980s Brookwood Pointe was the area of the home sprinklers. People would say give this area 10-15 years and it’s going to go down and here we are in 2024 Brookwood Point and Glenwood is looking just as pretty and beautiful as it was back then. It’s a beautiful community. Two of my three daughters still reside in Glenwood.

What branch of the did you serve? The Army the 101st Paratroopers. I used to jump out of planes. I went to the service at an early age. I volunteered back when they were drafting. I did my three years.

The excitement and more pay drove me to be a parachutist. I know most people may ask what’s so exciting about jumping out of a nice plane. It was a beautiful experience because I was small and I would get caught up sometimes.

Just the view and peacefulness. The only thing I can compare it to is being on a boat out in the middle of Lake Michigan and the tranquility you experience.

A lot of young people are choosing to go to the military. That’s a beautiful thing . I would share with the younger generation that It will teach you discipline. What you’re running away from, you run to. When to eat, when to get up, how to dress, when to go to sleep. All of those were part of my military training that I now realize was important to me in setting my standards of life.

You retired from Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) Jan. 2007 after 28 years of service.

What did you like most about your job? I liked the job because I started as a bus operator picking up and greeting people. I called it sight seeing because I was driving up and down the street seeing people and getting paid. I liked going to orientation because it provided you opportunities. I can echo that today because I started out as a bus operator, line instructor (I trained students and incoming employees), supervisor and retired as transportation manager.

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

I would encourage people to enter the field. It’s a different job nowadays because the culture of people has changed and so has management at CTA. While working, I would encourage young people coming in the door.

I would tell them CTA is not for everybody. It’s a people business first of all and you’re dealing with people and management.. Come to work on time, don't tear up my equipment, and you will have a job. Which I found to be true. You don’t have to stay at CTA. You can use CTA to further your education, start a business, become a homeowner and use it as a stepping stone. One thing CTA offers that a lot of companies have stopped is a pension. I’ve been retired 17 years and haven’t missed a payday; that pension is the best thing to happen in life.

Community Involvement Glenwood Cougars- What got you interested in volunteering with the youth?

When I moved out here, my youngest daughter became a cheerleader, and I love a program for kids. The Glenwood Cougars was an exciting organization and it still is to this day. I’m still affiliated with them and It gives our kids so much opportunity.

Over the years, I’ve seen kids get college scholarships. I’ve seen progress. There’s a young lady who just graduated from Marian H.S. this year that will be going to Michigan State University. She went for tryouts and made the cheerleading squad at Michigan State University. It all started with being a Glenwood Cougars cheerleader. Another important thing about the organization is the fact that even my grandsons and other younger people who came through the program are now coaches, giving back, and they got their kids in the program.

What do you enjoy most about volunteering with youth?

I enjoy the camaraderie with the kids and showing them there’s a different side to life. Being a part of Brookwood School District 167 Real Men Read Program. The Real Men read with students in 2-4th grade. To see the students progress was great. Male Parent Advisory Committee (MPAC) where we mentored boys in 4-8th grades taking on trips sharing life and come and feel free and the program grew so much that the girls started complaining. What stood out most working with MPAC was the young men so excited to visit the fire station and that came up because we walk past this building everyday. What do they do and what is it for? We took them to the fire station and had a couple of officers come by and talk. I enjoyed the excitement on their faces.

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

It’s a lot. The first thing that comes to my mind, may sound strange, is the technology age. When I was growing up, we couldn't wait until 7 or 8 o’clock in the morning to get outside and play. We had an old saying in the hood -’you better be back home by the streetlight’. But now, we have to make the kids get outside because of technology. It’s a good thing and it’s a bad thing. They experience so much technology that we have to do a lot more correcting than in the past. The technology makes us have to go outside. It’s like a joke. Growing up in my household were 7 brothers and sisters, mom and dad. We all watched the same TV, so whatever was on, we watched and it brought the family together. Now, we got a TV in every room so the hardest part of our life now is trying to get the family to come together. The thing that irritates me most is riding around with my granddaughters in the car and telling them to put away the phone. When we’re sitting eating dinner, no phones are allowed.

The U.S. is celebrating the Fourth of July and many young people feel as though they have nothing to celebrate in this country. You were among millions to serve this country. Though there are many problems, it’s still considered one of the best countries to live in.

Many youth are apathetic about voting as though their vote won’t count anyway. What advice would you offer youth?

Every vote counts. Don't feel upset if you don’t voice your choice. To encourage the young people, we have to go back to our history and the things people suffered and endured to get that right. When we talk to people, we have to realize what the voting rights came in the 1960s; that’s not that long ago. My 18 and 22 year old granddaughters registered to vote. Voting is comparable to having a library card, you should have it whether you use it or not. Voting for me nowadays is like the Civil War because we have so much division in our country now which is the same reason the Civil War occurred.

What advice would you give young people as they began their adult life/ career journey?

Everything you do affects where you are going or what you’re going to be. We have to encourage them as far as hope is concerned because in their peer group the young men that are coming up leave so much to be desired. Those are the things we have to turn around Hobbies- Hats ‘A man wasn’t dressed unless he had his lid’ Do you have a collection? Yes, I do. You have to. You don’t feel like you’re completely dressed without it. In the black community, you have hatters making hats. I have a high school friend who has hats that compliment every outfit.

He’s called ‘Bernard the Hatter’. He gets all of his hats made . If you notice steppers, all of their hats compliment their outfits. More and more ladies are getting into the hat trend where it’s a part of their outfit.

How long have you been into hats? I’ve been into hats since I was a teenager.

What are your hats of choice? Stylish, straw, felt, or other Are you a member of a hat club? No. Are you a stepper? I try to be. Growing up, that’s one thing I never totally conquered. I never totally became a stepper but I will try. It’s almost a must.

Click on - GLENWOOD COUGARS

WILLIE WALTERS

THANK YOU

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

OLE STUFF

C o n g r a t u l a t i o n s !

Broken Arrow Horseback Riding Club for 35 years of

EXCITEMENT

WTTW Ch. 11 preparing Murdock for filming of the event

More on Broken Arrow

EXPERTISE

EXCELLENCE

OUT NUMBERED AND OUT GUNNED, THEY STILL WON

FIERCE

BUFFALO SOLDIERS

AMONG THE MOST LOYAL, DECORATED SOLDIERS OF THEIR TIME

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

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

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

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

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

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

D A Y

RHONDA RUSSELL HENDERSON BLOOM HIGH SCHOOL PRINCIPAL ASSISTANT DIRECTOR OF TEACHER PIPELINE INITIATIVES AT THE MCKEOWN SCHOOL OF EDUCATION AT SALEM STATE UNIVERSITY

“...hold on to your beliefs no matter what might happen.”

What do you cherish most about growing up in Glenwood/What are some of your fond memories growing up in Glenwood?

We moved to Glenwood, when I was 15 from Chicago. This was not my favorite place to be all I knew was Chicago. I transferred my junior year in high school to Bloom Township, which was scary because I knew no one. I came from Chicago Ag Sciences, which was a very small school. So transferring to such a big place was overwhelming. I met some amazing people at the school who helped me learn my way. Hanging at the park was the spot, we could all meet up there and laugh and enjoy each other's company.

I worked at the Nursing home in Glenwood three nights a week in high school, which taught me a lot of lessons on patience, and learning to give back to my elders. Working with the elderly there taught me how so many of them get overlooked once they are placed in a nursing home.

As I moved away my parents remained in Glenwood, which we would visit every weekend. So it was nice to take my children back to some of my hangout spots, or have them be a part of the football and cheerleading programs.

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

I have encountered so many obstacles in life, but my biggest challenge that life doesn’t prepare you for is living after the loss of your parents. Your normal is no longer normal. You get used to having conversation, support and love. Once that is gone you have to create a new normal, traditions and support that it can throw you off balance for awhile.

In education, the one challenge that you encounter is working for or with people that want you to change who you are in order to fit in. That's when you have to know who you are and hold on to your beliefs no matter what might happen.

I have overcome these challenges by having faith and prayer. Also, a great support system that has been there every step of my journey. I learned once you have all of that on your side that there is nothing that you can’t overcome in time.

How did obstacles prepare you for the success you’ve acquired today?

These obstacles have taught me that I’m tough, that I can weather the storm and that I am here for a purpose. Once I learned that my purpose is to catch and support teachers, and to help me drive my work professionally to doing that.

On a personal level, I still am overcoming challenges everyday. I truly want to share moments with my parents. Being a parent of adult children and an almost teenager is different. You want to make sure that you are providing the same love and support to help them reach their full potential.

One thing I did the last couple of years was leap and do something for myself . I wanted to be an elementary school principal, which I served one year in a south suburban school district. This year moving to Massachusetts to accept the position at Salem State. I packed up my car and we moved to the North Shore, with no knowledge of what was to come.

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

I didn’t want to be a teacher, my mother was an educator in the Chicago Public Schools system for 34 years. I wanted to be a biotechnologist. My mother was very persistent, and I have been in education for 26 years . This year, I took a leap and left Chicago to move to Massachusetts.

I am the Assistant Director of Teacher Pipeline Initiatives at the McKeown School of Education at Salem State University. I love my job. This role is brand new, created to retain teachers. My primary responsibility is to develop and retain black and brown teachers in the state of Massachusetts. In the Commonwealth, there are less than 20% of the licensed Teachers are of color. It is such a pleasure partnering with 7 school districts to bring these teachers back to school where they obtain either their initial license or professional licenses to impact the classroom. We also have a mentoring program with the middle school in Salem, Mass. to help guide them with identity and to learn about college and the many opportunities that can come with getting a degree.

One of my proudest accomplishments at Salem State is working with the Educators Scholars of Color program, this community is to support our education majors of color. We provide them funding for MTELS, programming, and mentoring to help them find their paths in the field of education.

What are the most challenging aspects of your profession?

Teaching is hard work and not appreciated by the world. Therefore , it’s hard to retain young people into the profession because they don’t understand the challenges it took to get minorities into teaching. The young generation has so many great ideas that can help transform teaching, but the education system is so rigid that sometimes people walk away before seeing the change.

Would you encourage others to enter the education field and why?

I would encourage others to enter the education field. It’s a rewarding profession, but there are so many opportunities to impact a child’s life without being a teacher. I don’t think we share all the positions there are in the field that are meaningful and needed.

Children these days are different from when I started teaching, and we need more representation in school building of the students. Student connections with people that look like them and they perform better. We need to ensure that the new generations have that representation.

Many young people are apathetic towards voting. What advice would you give young people on voting ?

Voting is how we have choice. There are so many stories of how our ancestors had to die, fight , and protest for that right.

They persisted in having that right to vote. That means something that they keep fighting no matter how many times they were told no. To me voting is a right to represent their voice. Young people might not agree with the candidates but need to understand the issues and how those issues impact our schools, housing , neighborhoods, and treatment.

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

The advice that I would give anyone going to college is to understand what you want out of it before embarking on that journey. Because there are so many outside factors that can take you off your game, if you allow it. Make relationships with faculty and staff because they will help guide you when you think you are lost. Learn to communicate early when you don’t know, so you can get the needed help. It’s also ok to fail and not know because you can get help. It’s worse when you know you need the help but too prideful to ask.

Is there a work-life balance, if so, what’s yours?

Yes there is, I have five kids Four have or are obtaining degrees. My 12 year old is with me and we are learning to explore Massachusetts. She’s a softball player, and loves to find new spots for us to adventure. Also, my partner is great at helping walk away from work, and learning to enjoy nature.

Interest/hobbies My interests are reading more books on Culturally responsive teaching, in order to prepare programming for students for color.

Shopping is my favorite pastime, along with pampering myself.

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

PAINT

PLANT

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

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

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

Click the link Why Gardening is Good for Mental Health

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

PAINT

PLANT

On the corner of Glenwood Lansing Road and cottage Grove there is a disgraceful set of greenery weeds tall grass trees. It looks terrible. What does that say about Glenwood when people see neglected property the perception is these people don’t care now there’s a tire that has been placed there is one of the main roads to Glenwood what do people think about Glenwood and its residence when they see something is atrocious? Is that Glenwood we can do better we need to take beautification serious.

The Village Board was presented with some suggested areas for beautification.

Suggested areas that could represent Glenwood in a positive manner with a village symbol, small flower bed, or both. Attached are the locations entering Glenwood that not only beautify our village but display pride in all our subdivisions.

The Point Cottage Grove South of Glenwood Dyer Road for those traveling Northbound. (symbol) Cottage Grove North of Glenwood Lansing Road for those traveling Southbound.(symbol) Maintain our BPHA sign (Dante) and the Village sign (Glenwood Dyer Road).

Old Glenwood Maintain UGRR Park include symbol Maintain BPHA sign at Rhodes by school.

The Forest Maple & Cottage Grove facing East with symbol The Manor Arquilla at 183rd Street facing West includes a symbol.

Entrances off Halsted and 183rd include symbols.

Better lighting and planters all the way to Robert’s Dr. A sign for the Manor on Strieff with some large flower planters.

The Estates Entrances off Halsted and 183rd include symbols.

CELESTINE BOWMAN United States Army (Ret.) Field Medic Nurse 91 -B

What motivated you to join the Army?

I was flirting with a recruiter.

What did you study in the Army?

I studied nursing. I was a Field Medic Nurse 91 B. What is a Field Medic Nurse?

When soldiers go into the field, they have to have somebody out there to triage in case of injuries. I went to the field to treat others. In the hospital, I did everything a nurse did except give meds.

Would you encourage young people to consider the field? Why/Why not?

Yes. If a person is strong in science and math, I strongly support them because there are so many avenues you can take. You learn so much for free. You’re learning all of this information for free. The difference between college and being in the military is that whatever your subject matter is, that's all you are going to learn . They focus on that subject matter and make sure you’re proficient.

Would you encourage young people to consider the military as an economical means of getting their education?

Yes, most definitely. It’s very beneficial.

What did you enjoy most about the Army?

The travel, friendships, and camaraderie. I had so much fun .Everything was enjoyable to me. You can be whatever you want to be in the Army. There are so many opportunities. There’s no glass ceiling.

How did the Army develop you into the individual you are today?

It made me more disciplined - structured. Thinking without speaking. I was a totally different person during and after the Army because you have to be a critical thinker.

What do you enjoy most about your job?

Being able to help people. Being compassionate. Learning new things every single day from the people and doctors. That’s heartwarming.

Women’s contributions have added to the success of our military.

What skills/characteristics can young ladies get from the military that may help them in future careers?

It builds character and shows how resilient you can be. It brings out strengths and weaknesses. You can build on the strengths and work on your weaknesses.

The village has Veterans’ Memorial Park that could use beautification and young people's involvement Would you be willing to assist?

A community beautification partnership is one of the thrusts of one of the organizations I’m involved in.

Working with veterans and beautification will knock out two stones. Let me know the day and time; and I got the people.

The village doesn’t do a good job of communication. Everyone can’t get on the website. Other villages send out text messages for special events and emergencies. . We need to do the same thing. We need to be more progressive.

As an Army veteran, what advice would you give young people who may be apathetic about voting?

JUST DO IT! Don’t think about it. Our ancestors died for our rights. It should be just like breathing; you don’t think about it, you just do it.

Community involvement You’ve been involved with baseball teams in Glenwood. What motivated you to become involved in volunteering with the team?

I believe in jumping in where needed. Our kids are our future. We need more people in the community to get involved with our kids. Just because they have parents in the household doesn’t mean they do not need the community surrounding and supporting them.

How has the support/mentoring of the team helped our youth?

You look back and see the kids that really built friendships, did well in school, went on further and not just played baseball in this little community. They played baseball in high school and college. That's what you want. You want to see our youth progress and look back at where it started. This is where I started. You have to have a foundation and Glenwood baseball was the foundation.

What is your work/life balance? What is that? I don’t even know what that is. When people say they’re bored, I’m like, I got something for you to do. They don’t want to walk in my shoes.

Hobbies/interest/passion- My passion is life!

“This isn’t a dress rehearsal; you have to live this life with no regrets” - Celestine Bowman

B r y n’e H a d n o t t Brookwood School District 167 Homewood Flossmoor H. Washington University in St. Louis, BA Earth and Planetary Science Johns Hopkins University, MA Earth and Planetary Science Profession: science writer aspiring 3D animator What do you cherish most about growing up in Glenwood/What are some of your fond memories growing up in Glenwood?

My most cherished memories from growing up in Glenwood were biking all over the neighborhood with my friends and getting candy up at Greco’s during summer vacations. I also remember getting to use the fire hose at the summer block party on Pleasant Drive and eating fresh grilled corn at the 4th of July celebration.

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

I was bullied at school and have had a lot of difficulty building up my own self confidence and esteem. With therapy, good friends, and the support of my family, I’ve been able to construct a healthier sense of self and find joy in just being me.

How did obstacles prepare you for the success you’ve acquired today?

Those early obstacles taught me to care less about other people’s opinions of me and to focus on my own self-defined goals/ definitions of success.

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

I enjoy the variety of topics I get to cover as a science writer. I’ve written about environmental science, geology, and even astrophysics for a wide range of audiences from middle schoolers to professional scientists. I dislike having to reach out to people for interviews and coordinate very crowded schedules to find the best time to meet.

What are the most challenging aspects of your profession?

The most challenging part of my job is boiling down complex ideas with long, entangled histories into easy to digest, shareable pieces of information that the general public will enjoy.

Would you encourage others to enter the field and why?

I’d encourage anyone, especially people that don’t see themselves represented in science, to enter science writing. What the field really needs is as many diverse viewpoints and perspectives as possible to explain these arcane topics in terms that pique the interest of folks outside of scientific institutions.

Many young people are apathetic towards voting. What advice would you give young people on voting ?

I’d say that it’s okay to feel apathetic and that apathy comes from a legitimate place of feeling dissatisfied with the current state of politics in this country. I’d encourage young voters to find candidates or leaders that share the same values as they do, and then promote them as much as possible. Work collectively with other young voters to spread the word about candidates that inspire excitement and hope instead of apathy.

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

College is even more expensive than it was when I was going to school and I’d encourage young people to investigate as many options as they can for getting a college education. It’s not necessary to go to a pricey 4 year school and end up deep in debt. Starting at a community college and then transferring to a 4 year institution or working through college part-time are both great ways to offset the increasing costs.

Is there a work-life balance, if so, what’s yours?

I believe in work-life balance. Mine involves working in 30 minute chunks of time with a few minutes of break time in between to avoid burnout and overworking. I also try to take walks throughout the day to break up staring at the computer for hours at a time.

Interest/hobbies My hobbies are writing creative nonfiction, plein- air painting, making artist books, and watching anime/reading manga. I started watching anime in junior high school and still enjoy watching new shows as they come out. I’m inspired by the intensity and creativity of anime as an art form.

GLENWOOD FIRE & POLICE COMMISSION

Did you know: the commission is in recruiting mode NOW. Did you know: the commission WAS being stripped of its duties via an ordinance authored by the Fire Chief & the Village Administrator, TWICE. Did you know: your trustees rejected that 1st ordinance.

Did you know: the Mayor STOPPED the 2nd attempt recently! The preposed ordinance to strip the commission of its duty to appoint new candidates for Firefighters & Policemen.

Did you know: the Fire Chief has proposed another ordinance to reorganize the entire Fire Department. The trustees approved it.

Did you know: the commission system was designed to eliminate discrimination and to QUALIFY First Responders.

Did you know: the Fire & Police Commission system is the established procedure for hiring firemen & policemen nationwide for more than 60 years. “..If it ain’t broke don’t fix it”…

Stay tuned

Greg Ray

TRAIL CONNECTION FOR BROOKWOOD POINT My name is Lorrie Wheeler. I have lived in Glenwood IL, Brookwood Point subdivision for over 30 years.

I have enjoyed having the Forest Preserve as a backdrop of nature to enjoy. We have the enjoyment of what is called the Thorncreek Trail System / Sweetwater Forest Preserve miles of walking and biking trail. In previous years the entry at DANTE and GLENWOOD-LANSING RD had gravel and was cleared of tall grasses and bushes but in the past several years the Forest Preserve has neglected to keep the entry area cleared of tall grasses and bushes and re-graveled.

At several village meetings in the past 2 years I have asked our Village Leaders to look into getting a paved entry at DANTE GLENWOOD-LANSING RD. It is a major safety concern that the entry is not visible. I also believe that a paved entry at COTTAGE GROVE and GLENWOOD-LANSING RD. would add a safe entry for neighbors west and northwest of the trail and added home value. I have taken the lead in contacting FPDCC and successfully met two of three requirements: the third would be local support. It is my desire that the Village of Glenwood IL and residents would support me in providing the necessary documentation of local support.

A safe paved entry would add value to our area and provide more usage to enjoy the trails and the beauty of what the forestry nature has to offer. Our neighbors east of us (Lynwood IL) GLENWOOD-LANSING RD and LAKE LYNWOOD have a safe paved cleared entry we can also.

Sincerely, Lorrie Wheeler

Section 4 of the Flag Code states: The Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag: "I pledge allegiance to the Flag of the United States of America, and to the Republic for which it stands, one Nation under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all.", should be rendered by standing at attention facing the flag with the right hand over the heart. When not in uniform men should remove any non-religious headdress with their right hand and hold it at the left shoulder, the hand being over the heart. Persons in uniform should remain silent, face the flag, and render the military salute."

The stripes represent the original 13 Colonies and the stars represent the 50 states of the Union. The colors of the flag are symbolic as well; red symbolizes hardiness and valor, white symbolizes purity and innocence, and blue represents vigilance, perseverance and justice.

Star Spangled Banner Say, can you see By the dawn's early light What so proudly we hailed At the twilight's last gleaming?

Whose broad stripes and bright stars Through the perilous fight O'er the ramparts we watched Were so gallantly, yeah, streaming?

And the rockets' red glare The bombs bursting in air Gave proof through the night That our flag was still there O say, does that star-spangled banner yet wave O'er the land of the free and the home of the brave Source: LyricFind The stripes represent the original 13 Colonies and the stars represent the 50 states of the Union. The colors of the flag are symbolic as well; red symbolizes hardiness and valor, white symbolizes purity and innocence, and blue represents vigilance, perseverance and justice.

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

U.S. Constitution Fun Facts 1. The oldest signer was Ben Franklin, who, at 81, needed help to put his pen to paper.

2. The Constitution has been amended 27 times.

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

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

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

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

7. Thirty-nine men signed the Constitution.

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

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

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

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

B i l l

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R i g h t s

Amendment I. Freedoms, Petitions, Assembly. ...

Amendment II. Right to bear arms. ...

Amendment III. Quartering of soldiers. ...

Amendment IV. Search and arrest. ...

Amendment V. Rights in criminal cases. ...

Amendment VI. Right to a fair trial. ...

Amendment VII. Rights in civil cases. ...

Amendment VIII. Bail, fines, punishment.

Click the link and

TEST YOUR KNOWLEDGE OF THE U.S. CONSTITUTION