Stroger hosts peace fest, book giveaway at Robbins library

Patrons at the public library in south suburban Robbins take note of all the books donated to the library as part of Cook County board President Todd Stroger’s book giveaway there.

Cook County Board President Todd H. Stroger began his annual Peace Fest by hosting a book giveaway June 10 at the south suburban Robbins public library. Stroger has constructed a program entitled “Peace Fest” which host various events for the summer geared toward giving children an alternative to violence and life on the streets.

The event was held days before Juneteenth -June 19 – which commemorates the abolishment of slavery in the United States.

“With many of our children literally being caught in the crossfire of gun violence, today we offer these students books that are gifts of love, peace and a set of powerful tools that show the path to an alternative way of life-one that can help keep them from harms way,” Stroger said. The giveaway was held at William Leonard Public Library in the tiny suburb, and looked to promote reading and education among the youth. Attending the event were Robbins Mayor Irene Brodie, Cook County Commissioner Deborah Sims, Former Chicago Bulls player Bob “Butterbean” Love and Joseph D. Saunders.

Saunders, a youth rapper and counselor from St. Sabina Church on the city’s South Side, offered encouraging words to the children in attendance.

“It is nothing impossible that you can do, but it starts now,” Saunders said. “Whatever you strive to do in the future, read about it.”

Many of these guests, including Brodie and Sauders, donated hundreds of books to support the event. Books were also donated by Third World Press and the U.N.

Copyright 2010 Chicago Defender.

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