During his childhood, Robert Horton (top left) was inspired to write poetry by his older brother, Fred. Poetry has always been a way for Robert to express his inner thoughts and feelings. Robert has successfully authored three books of poetry, Inspired Poetic Messages, (2015), Miscellaneous Pieces, (2017), and FAME, (2020). He is currently working on his fourth.

Steven Richie is a native of Springfield, Illinois. He wrote his first book, entitled, ShoeBox Chicken in 2011. His second book, Boston Richie, (top right), is dedicated to the memory of his uncle and father, Boston Richie Jr. and Oscar Richie, and their untiring work to make a living for themselves as well as their families, and provide employment opportunities to many men in their Springfield Community.

Shatriya Smith (bottom left) is a Springfield resident and a graduate of Springfield High School. She is the Executive Director of the Garvey-Tubman Cultural Arts and Research Center, a community activist, and spoken word artist. She has said, “Being able to be conduit for progress is a blessing, and I look forward to the future actionable activities for the youth of Springfield and beyond”. A formal compilation of her poems is forthcoming.

Donna Salazar is a Masters-Level Licensed Therapist; a Certified Family Trauma Professional; and a Clinically Certified Forensic Counselor. She is the Founder and C.E.O. of Child Consulting by Donna, LLC., a private therapy practice centered on treating children and families, and is also the co-founder of Ladies of Victory and Excellence (L.O.V.E.) She is the co-author of Living by Design Program Journal and Workbook (bottom right).

Dr. Khadijia White-Thomas is a progressive leader and educator with an entrepreneurial approach to problem-solving. She is the Founder and C.E.O. of Decree Consulting & Publishing, L.L.C., which helps businesses transform and implement strategies for success and sustainability. Dr. Khadijia is also the Co-founder of Ladies of Victory and Excellence (L.O.V.E.), L.L.C., and has a passion for mentoring and empowering young adults through Behavioral Mentoring for attaining goals and their potential for success. Dr. Khadijia is passionate about growth: personally, spiritually, professionally, and academically and believes in investing in the development of others. She is the co-author of Living by Design Program Journal and Workbook (bottom right).

The Springfield and Central Illinois African American History Museum (AAHM) is announcing a “Celebrate Kwanzaa” event with Shatriya Smith, Executive Director of the Garvey-Tubman Cultural Arts and Research Center. The event will be held on Tuesday, December 28, 2021, from 5:30PM until 7:30PM at the Museum, 1440 Monument Ave. The event will explore the symbols and meaning of Kwanzaa and will include African art and gift making activities.