Dinner Honors Englewood Scholars
by Thelma Sardin
Last Thursday evening, Cook County Board of Review Commissioner Larry Rogers, Jr. and his father, Attorney Larry Rogers Sr. hosted a congratulatory dinner to honor the valedictorians and salutatorians from Englewood-area schools. Some of the schools represented included Banneker Elementary, Kershaw Magnet, John Hope College Prep and St. Columbanus.
Approximately 150 students and their families were treated to a meal at Lawry's Prime Rib Restaurant located at 100 E. Ontario on Chicagos Magnificent Mile. Among the dignitaries present to help congratulate the students was Chicago Police 1st Deputy Superintendent Al Wysinger, William Garth, CEO & Publisher of Chicago Citizen Newspapers and Judge Stanley L. Hill, Circuit Court of Cook County.
Throughout the evening, awards were given to individuals who support the annual banquet. DeAngelo Tompkins, a student at Urban Prep Academies Englewood campus presented Garth with a plaque of appreciation for his support.
The congratulatory dinner began ten years ago as the brainchild of Chicago Police officer Linda Stanford who works in the Englewood district. Stanford wanted celebrate the academic achievements of students that avoided criminal activity and made their education a priority. Since its inception, the dinner has garnered tremendous support from Englewood police commanders.
Attorney Rogers also discussed the events purpose. Its intended to give the students some encouragement. Its a way for us to say congratulations and thank you for your hard work and to say thank you to the parents, he said.
A bevy of speakers gave the students encouraging words as they prepare to embark on new chapters in their educational careers.
Continue to stay focused, continue to be diligent, continue to listen to your parents and create and choose positive role models, said 1st Deputy Wysinger.
Angela McKinney, a pre-school teacher at Kershaw Magnet read the poem Hey Black Child. She also discussed how she was an average student throughout elementary and high school but decided to make a change in college. I [had] another chance, she said about the revelation that made her strive to obtain a bachelors degree in Elementary Education.
Commissioner Rogers also gave a short speech. He told the scholars that the dinners mission focuses on the positive things children are doing in their community.
We thought it was always important not only to focus on children and aspects of the community that are struggling but [also] celebrate those that are doing things right. Celebrate those that are going to class, doing their homework and doing the things necessary to be successful in life, he said.
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