Harwood Heights Illinois Chamber of Commerce

Adam Andrzejewski, executive director of ForTheGoodof Illinois.org, speaks to the members of the Harwood Heights Chamber of Commerce at their monthly meeting. He brought to the attention of chamber members the need for local governments, especially public school districts, to allow easier access to their financial records that are already by law open to the public. He specifically spoke about Ridgewood High School District 234's failure to pass a referendum to increase school funding which he, in part, attributes to a lack of transparency and openness. He suggested that the school check ledger, which is already prepared for the monthly school board meetings, be posted on line for access by Internet users.

Ridgewood High School Senior Natalie Kozlowski accepts a scholarship check from Anthony Pinnello, President of the Harwood Heights Chamber. Natalie will be attending Georgetown University this fall.

The Harwood Heights Chamber of Commerce Scholarship is a one-time, non-renewable $1,500 award that is open to Ridgewood High School students The scholarship is payable to the community college, university/college, or post-secondary (technical or trade) degreed program of the student's choice.

The goal of this scholarship is to support the postsecondary educational/career plans of a graduating senior who has demonstrated a commitment to personal integrity, ethics, and community service. This year's topic was How access to higher education will prepare me for the future. "As president of the Harwood Heights Chamber Of Commerce I am really proud the Chamber could start involving itself in the community and further young entrepreneurs. Our hope is that these students can one day, give back and be involved in the Chamber. It's like sowing a seed."