African American Black Business Assoc Juneteenth gala and celebrations

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Celebrating heritage and remembering the travails of prior generations are on the schedule when several Juneteenth events are held in Joliet Wednesday. But on Saturday, the African American Business Association (ABBA) held a Juneteenth gala at the Patrick C. Haley Mansion in Joliet. The group focuses on strengthening African American businesses and the communities they serve. Tracy Stallworth, executive director, said the Juneteenth CEO Celebration and Awards Gala was attended by at least 325 people. More than 15 board of directors and officers were in attendance. “It was absolutely amazing,” said Stallworth about the event on Monday. “But I am a little tired today.” Besides reflecting on heritage, Stallworth said the fund-raising event also is about lauding the accomplishments of African American businesses in the community. The 2024 Longstanding Business of the Year Award was given to Generation Dance Company. Additionally, Kendall Jackson, community development director for the City of Joliet prior to retiring, received the Michael Austin Clark Lifetime Achievement Award in honor of the group’s founder; D’Arcy Motors, Corporate Partnership Award of the Year; Aaron Sain of Insainly Fit Meals was given the Dream Big Award of the Year; and Nate and Erika McCullum of House of Valor...

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