Cook County Board of Commissioners met May 22

By Kristine Gonzales-Abella

May 30, 2019

Cook County Board of Commissioners met May 22.

Here is the agenda provided by the board:

PUBLIC TESTIMONY

Pursuant to Cook County Code of Ordinances, public testimony will be permitted at regular and special meetings of the Board. Duly authorized public speakers shall be called upon at this time to deliver testimony germane to a specific item(s) on the meeting agenda, and the testimony must not exceed three (3) minutes. The names of duly authorized speakers shall be published in the Post Board Action Agenda and Journal of Proceedings as prepared by the Clerk of the Board.

CONSENT CALENDAR

Pursuant to Cook County Code, the Secretary to the Board of Commissioners hereby transmits Consent Calendar Resolutions for your consideration. The Consent Calendar Resolutions shall be published in the Post Board Action Agenda and Journal of Proceedings as prepared by the Clerk of the Board.

19-2081

Sponsored by: LARRY SUFFREDIN, TONI PRECKWINKLE (President), ALMA E. ANAYA, LUIS ARROYO JR, SCOTT R. BRITTON, JOHN P. DALEY, DENNIS DEER, BRIDGET DEGNEN, BRIDGET GAINER, BRANDON JOHNSON, BILL LOWRY, DONNA MILLER, STANLEY MOORE, KEVIN B. MORRISON, SEAN M. MORRISON, PETER N. SILVESTRI, DEBORAH SIMS and JEFFREY R. TOBOLSKI, Cook County Board of Commissioners

This Item was deferred at the 4/24/2019 meeting

PROPOSED RESOLUTION

REMEMBERING AND HONORING THE LIFE OF CRYSTAL CARBELLOS

WHEREAS, Crystal Carbellos was a proud and dedicated employee of the Cook County Public Defender’s Office for almost twenty years; and

WHEREAS, Crystal Carbellos passed away on February 22, 2019; and

WHEREAS, Crystal Carbellos earned her bachelor’s degree from University of Minnesota and worked as a Certified Public Accountant; and

WHEREAS, she earned her Juris Doctorate from Chicago-Kent College of Law Illinois Institute of Technology in 1995 and was admitted to the Illinois Bar in 1997; and

WHEREAS, as a law student Crystal Carbellos worked at the Chicago-Kent Law Offices as a clinic student defending those accused of crimes under the tutelage of Professor Richard Kling and found her calling to be the voice and a shield for the accused; and

WHEREAS, after getting her law degree, Crystal Carbellos joined the Cook County Public Defender’s Office as an assistant public defender in May 1997 and dedicated herself to finding justice for her clients; and

WHEREAS, Crystal Carbellos worked in the Traffic Division, Juvenile Justice Division, and Felony Trial Division of the Cook County Public Defender’s Office as an assistant public defender, before joining the special Homicide Task Force Division, where she worked for almost ten years; and

WHEREAS, Crystal Carbellos worked tirelessly to advocate for her clients, became the voice and a shield for her clients, and was a formidable trial attorney for her clients. Her dedication to ensuring equity and justice for her clients was steadfast and her compassion unquestionable; and

WHEREAS, Crystal Carbellos maintained relationships with her former clients, was a mentor to many other assistant public defenders, and was respected by her colleagues for her leadership, advocacy, and compassion; and

WHEREAS, Crystal Carbellos served her fellow assistant public defenders as the Treasurer for AFSCME, Council 31, AFL-CIO, Local 3315 for almost eight years; and

WHEREAS, Crystal Carbellos was born on September 6, 1947in Fort Dodge, Iowa to Richard F. Nekvinda and Olga M. Rubos. Crystal was an avid and loyal Minnesota Vikings and Prince fan; and

WHEREAS, Crystal Carbellos was a mother to four children: Nicole (Carley), Samuel, Reuben, and Adrienne; a grandmother to eight grandchildren: Jacquez, Samarah, Summer, Wynnston, Savannah, Ayden, Isabella, and Rubianna; and

WHEREAS, Crystal was loved and respected by her family, her clients, friends, and colleagues for her compassion, empathy, kindness, grace, strength, creativity, humor, positive spirit, loyalty, commitment to justice, and faith in humanity; and

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Board of Commissioners of Cook County, on behalf of the 5.2million residents of Cook County commemorates the extraordinary life of Crystal Carbellos, and herewith expresses its sincere gratitude for the invaluable and innumerable contributions she has made to the Citizens of Cook County, Illinois; and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that a suitable copy of this Resolution be spread upon the official proceedings of this Honorable Body and that an official copy of the same be tendered to the family of Crystal Carbellos.

19-3321

Sponsored by: TONI PRECKWINKLE (President), Cook County Board of Commissioners

PROPOSED RESOLUTION

MEMORIAL DAY

WHEREAS, Memorial Day, originally called Decoration Day, is celebrated annually on the last Monday of May, and is a day of remembrance for those who have died in our Nation’s service; and

WHEREAS, Memorial Day is a time for the Nation to appropriately remember and honor our American heroes; and

WHEREAS, our service men and women answered the call of duty and made the ultimate sacrifice to maintain the security of our country and the liberties we hold so dear; and

WHEREAS, our Nation is honor bound to remember those who died on distant shores defending our country and our way of life; and

WHEREAS, citizens across Cook County, the State of Illinois and the entire United States will pause to remember the sacrifices of men and women who died in service to our nation; and

WHEREAS, on this Memorial Day, as throughout the year, we pray for the families of the fallen and show our respect for the contributions these service members made to the continuation of American freedom; and

WHEREAS, our grateful Nation honors their selfless service, and we recognize a debt of honor beyond our capability to repay; and

WHEREAS, Americans must never allow ourselves to forget the contributions made by those who served and those who gave their lives to protect the freedom and democracy for our country; and

WHEREAS, it is important to show our gratitude for all our Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen, Marines, Coast Guardsmen, and Merchant Mariners who died in the service of our Nation that we might continue to enjor the liberties we so deeply cherish.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the President and the Members of the Cook County Board of Commissioners, do hereby recognize Monday, May 27th, 2019, as Memorial Day and pay tribute to those who served and those who died with a sense of honor, duty and dedication for the United States of America

19-3333

Sponsored by: TONI PRECKWINKLE (President), Cook County Board of Commissioners

PROPOSED RESOLUTION

HONORING AND RECOGNIZING MAY 2019 AS COMMUNITY ACTION MONTH

WHEREAS, Cook County Board of Commissioners did, in June 1965, designate Community and Economic Development Association (CEDA) to be the Community Action Agency for suburban Cook County; and

WHEREAS, after 54years, CEDA now serves more than 360,000people annually in Cook County to remove the obstacles of poverty and find pathways to financial stability; and

WHEREAS, CEDA is a Community Action Agency that has made essential contributions to individuals and families across Cook County by creating economic opportunities and strengthening communities; and

WHEREAS, CEDA promotes economic stability as an essential aspect of enabling and enhancing stronger communities and stable homes; and

WHEREAS, CEDA promotes community-wide solutions to challenges throughout our cities, villages, towns, and unincorporated areas of Cook County; and

WHEREAS, CEDA delivers innovative services and supports that create greater opportunities for families and children to succeed; and

WHEREAS, CEDA as a Community Action Agency, insists on community participation and involvement ensuring that all sectors of the community have a voice and will be heard; and

WHEREAS, CEDA is part of Community Action which is a robust state and local force connecting people to life-changing services and creating pathways to prosperity in 99% of all American counties; and

WHEREAS, Community Action is celebrating 55years of innovation, impact, and providing proven results for Americans.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the President and the Cook County Board of Commissioners, on behalf of the residents of Cook County, do hereby recognize May 2019to be Community Action Month in recognition of the hard work and dedication of the Community and Economic Development Association (CEDA) and all Community Action Agencies; and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that a suitable copy of this resolution be tendered to the Community and Economic Development Association (CEDA) as a means of communicating our appreciation.

19-3471

Sponsored by: TONI PRECKWINKLE (President), Cook County Board of Commissioners

PROPOSED RESOLUTION

40TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE VETERANS AFFAIRS VETERAN (“VET”) CENTERS

WHEREAS, On June 13, 1979, Congress passed Public Law 96-22establishing the Vet Centers within the Department of Veteran’s Affairs; and

WHEREAS, the Vet Centers were initially designed to provide outreach and specialized treatment and support services to veterans of Vietnam and the Vietnam Era; and

WHEREAS, over the course of time they have evolved, and eligibility expanded in order to provide specialized services for all veterans of conflict zones and for veterans who have experienced military sexual trauma; and

WHEREAS, the Vet Centers provide a wide range of social and psychological services, including professional readjustment counseling to eligible veterans, active duty service members, including National Guard and Reserve component and their families; and

WHEREAS, Cook County has five Vet Centers: Evanston, Forest Park, Chicago Orland Park and Chicago Heights; and

WHEREAS, Vet Centers are community based and part of the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Cook County Board of Commissioners declares the week of June 9th through the 15th as Vet Center Recognition Week in Cook County; and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that a suitable copy of this Resolution be spread upon the official proceedings of this Honorable Body and that an official copy of the same be presented to the five Vet Centers in Cook County.

19-3383

Sponsored by: JOHN P. DALEY, TONI PRECKWINKLE (President), ALMA E. ANAYA, LUIS ARROYO JR, SCOTT R. BRITTON, DENNIS DEER, BRIDGET DEGNEN, BRIDGET GAINER, BRANDON JOHNSON, BILL LOWRY, DONNA MILLER, STANLEY MOORE, KEVIN B. MORRISON, SEAN M. MORRISON, PETER N. SILVESTRI, DEBORAH SIMS, LARRY SUFFREDIN and JEFFREY R. TOBOLSKI, Cook County Board of Commissioners

PROPOSED RESOLUTION

THOMAS C. HYNES, IN MEMORIAM

WHEREAS, Almighty God in His infinite wisdom has called Thomas Hynes from our midst; and

WHEREAS, Thomas Hynes was the dearly beloved husband of 55 years to Judith (Maher), and

WHEREAS, Thomas Hynes was the loving father of Cecilia (Cheever) Griffin, Thomas (Carol Jones), Daniel (Christina) and Matthew (Mari); and

WHEREAS, Thomas Hynes was the cherished grandfather of David, Clare, Matthew, Benjamin, Anna, Charlie, Liam, Finley, Trudie and Thomas Joseph "TJ"; and

WHEREAS, Thomas Hynes was the dear brother of Timothy, Jack, the late Robert, and the late William Hynes; and

WHEREAS, Thomas Hynes was the proud son of Irish immigrants, the late William and Kathleen Hynes (nee Dowd); and

WHEREAS, Thomas Hynes served as Democratic committeeman of the 19th Ward of Chicago; and

WHEREAS, Thomas Hynes was elected to the Illinois State Senate in 1970and served as President of the Illinois Senate in 1977; and

WHEREAS, Thomas Hynes was elected Cook County Assessor in 1978 and re-elected four times; and

WHEREAS, while serving as Assessor, Thomas Hynes was a strong advocate for homeowners and senior citizens and he brought much needed reforms and automation to the Assessor’s Office; and

WHEREAS, Thomas Hynes was known for his honesty, integrity and detailed understanding of public policy; and

WHEREAS, Thomas Hynes touched the lives of many and will be remembered by all who knew him; and

WHEREAS, all who knew him will attest that Thomas Hynes was a kind and compassionate man, virtuous of character and gentle in spirit, admired and respected by his many friends and neighbors, and dearly loved by his family; and

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, by the Board of Commissioners of Cook County that the Board does hereby offer its deepest condolences and most heartfelt sympathy to the family of Thomas Hynes and joins them in sorrow at this time of loss; and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that this text be spread upon the official proceedings of this Honorable Body, and a suitable copy of the same be tendered to the family of Thomas Hynes so that his memory may be so honored and ever cherished.

19-3386

PROPOSED RESOLUTION

DOMINIC DIFRISCO, IN MEMORIAM

WHEREAS, Almighty God in His infinite wisdom has called Dominic DiFrisco from our midst; and

WHEREAS Dominic DiFrisco was the dearly beloved husband of Carol (Loverde), and

WHEREAS, Dominic DiFrisco was the devoted father of Nina (Robert) Mariano; and

WHEREAS, Dominic DiFrisco was the loving grandfather of Pasquale Gianni; and

WHEREAS, Dominic DiFrisco was the dear brother of Carmela Soricelli and Louisa Termini; and

WHEREAS, Dominic DiFrisco was the fond uncle and godfather to many; and

WHEREAS, Dominic DiFrisco proudly served as President of the Joint Civic Committee of Italian Americans where he worked to create the annual Dante Award and Filipo Mazzei Award; and

WHEREAS, Dominic DiFrisco played an important role in the effort to keep the Shrine of Our Lady of Pompeii open in the 1990’s; and

WHEREAS, Dominic DiFrisco was a forceful advocate for many Italian American causes and a proud proponent of the contributions of Italian Americans in Chicago and Cook County; and

WHEREAS, Dominic DiFrisco touched the lives of many and will be remembered by all who knew him; and

WHEREAS, all who knew him will attest that Dominic DiFrisco was a kind and compassionate man, virtuous of character and gentle in spirit, admired and respected by his many friends and neighbors, and dearly loved by his family; and

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, by the Board of Commissioners of Cook County that the Board does hereby offer its deepest condolences and most heartfelt sympathy to the family of Dominic DiFrisco and joins them in sorrow at this time of loss; and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that this text be spread upon the official proceedings of this Honorable Body, and a suitable copy of the same be tendered to the family of Dominic DiFrisco so that his memory may be so honored and ever cherished.

19-3549

PROPOSED RESOLUTION

ANN M. MARONEY, IN MEMORIAM

WHEREAS, Almighty God in His infinite wisdom has called Ann Maroney (nee Bettenhausen) from our midst; and

WHEREAS, Ann Maroney was the dearly beloved wife of the late Francis Maroney; and

WHEREAS, Ann Maroney was the devoted mother of Ann Marie (Allan) Ehrlich, Patricia (Joseph) Maroney-Kogut, and the late Kathleen Maroney; and

WHEREAS, Ann Maroney was the loving grandmother of Sean (Barbara) Ehrlich; great grandmother of Callan and Cooper; and

WHEREAS, Ann Maroney was the devoted daughter of the late Henri and Mary Bettenhausen;, and

WHEREAS, Ann Maroney was the dear sister of the late Henri Louis (the late Rita) Bettenhausen; sister-in-law of the late Mary Fletchall; and

WHEREAS, Ann Maroney was the fond aunt of Michael (Sue) Bettenhausen, Richard (Karen) Fletchall, and John (Susie) Fletchall; great-aunt and nanny of many; and

WHEREAS, Ann Maroney touched the lives of many and will be remembered by all who knew her; and

WHEREAS, all who knew her will attest that Ann Maroney was a kind and compassionate woman, virtuous of character and gentle in spirit, admired and respected by her many friends and neighbors, and dearly loved by her family; and

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, by the Board of Commissioners of Cook County that the Board does hereby offer its deepest condolences and most heartfelt sympathy to the family of Ann Maroney and joins them in sorrow at this time of loss; and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that this text be spread upon the official proceedings of this Honorable Body, and a suitable copy of the same be tendered to the family of Ann Maroney so that her memory may be so honored and ever cherished.

19-3552

PROPOSED RESOLUTION

ALBERT YUM CHIU WONG, IN MEMORIAM

WHEREAS, Almighty God in His infinite wisdom has called Albert Yum Chiu Wong from our midst; and

WHEREAS, Albert Yum Chiu Wong was the dearly beloved husband of Bernarda “Bernie” nee Lo, and

WHEREAS, Albert Yum Chiu Wong was the devoted father of Jacinta Wong; and

WHEREAS, Albert Yum Chiu Wong was the loving grandfather of Tiana Wong and Matthew Reddix; and

WHEREAS, Albert Yum Chiu Wong was the dear brother of Rosalind Young and Suzanna Wu; and

WHEREAS, Albert Yum Chiu Wong touched the lives of many and will be remembered by all who knew him; and

WHEREAS, all who knew him will attest that Albert Yum Chiu Wong was a kind and compassionate man, virtuous of character and gentle in spirit, admired and respected by his many friends and neighbors, and dearly loved by his family; and

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, by the Board of Commissioners of Cook County that the Board does hereby offer its deepest condolences and most heartfelt sympathy to the family of Albert Yum Chiu Wong and joins them in sorrow at this time of loss; and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that this text be spread upon the official proceedings of this Honorable Body, and a suitable copy of the same be tendered to the family of Albert Yum Chiu Wong so that his memory may be so honored and ever cherished.

19-3280

Sponsored by: BRANDON JOHNSON, Cook County Board of Commissioners RECOGNIZING MAY 3, 2019 AS BUILD, INC DAY

WHEREAS, BUILD, began its work in 1969as Chicago's first street gang intervention and outreach program and,

WHEREAS, BUILD’S mission is to engage at-risk youth in the schools and on the streets, so they can realize their educational and career potential and contribute to the stability, safety, and well-being of our communities and,

WHEREAS, BUILD is committed to reducing violence in some of Chicago's toughest neighborhoods serving over 100,000 of Chicago's youth and,

WHEREAS, BUILD celebrates 50years of service, we honor the hard work of the board that has supported and nurtured the organization from its inception and we honor the hard work of the staff who pour out their best into each young person every day and,

WHEREAS, BUILD looks to the future of service, innovation, building relationships, and helping to transform youth and community alike, we celebrate 50 years of incredible service”

NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the Cook County Board of Commissioners recognizes Friday, May 3, 2019as BUILD, Inc Day, in honor of the organization's 50year legacy of service and support to Chicago's children and youth.

19-3365

Sponsored by: BRANDON JOHNSON, Cook County Board of Commissioners HONORING PASTOR CURTIS ALLEN BRITT, SR.

WHEREAS, Pastor Curtis Allen Britt Sr. was born April 30, 1967 in Chicago Illinois. He is the youngest of five children; and

WHEREAS, Pastor Britt Sr. has two sons, one daughter, three granddaughters and one grandson; and

WHEREAS, Pastor Britt Sr. worked at the Cook County Juvenile Detention Center for Twenty years as a Youth Counselor; and

WHEREAS, in 1983, at the age of thirteen, Pastor Britt Sr. joined All Nations Pentecostal House of Prayer #2under the leadership of the late Aquila Sprouls and continuing under the leadership of Pastor Hattie Louden where he was a member for twenty-seven years; and

WHEREAS, in 2008, Pastor Britt Sr. established Youth Outreach Ministries, where he preached biblical truths to inner city youth while teaching basic living skills to broaden their knowledge; and

WHEREAS, in 2009 Pastor Britt Sr. was ordained as a minister of the gospel; and

WHEREAS, in April 2011Minister Curtis Allen Britt Sr., established Restoration Outreach Ministries as Pastor; and

WHEREAS, in June 2012Restorative Outreach Ministries partner with Chicago City Colleges youth program names S.O.A.R. for the advancement of the youth; and

WHEREAS, in January 2018, Pastor Britt Sr. became the overseer of Women Uplifting Women Outreach.

WHEREAS, Pastor Britt continues to proclaim his life scripture as, “I will bless the Lord at all times, his praise shall continually be in my mouth.” - Psalm 34

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Cook County Board of Commissioners hereby recognizes Pastor Curtis Allen Britt Sr., for his monumental contributions to humanity.

19-3603

Sponsored by: DONNA MILLER, TONI PRECKWINKLE (President), ALMA E. ANAYA, LUIS ARROYO JR, SCOTT R. BRITTON, JOHN P. DALEY, DENNIS DEER, BRIDGET DEGNEN, BRIDGET GAINER, BRANDON JOHNSON, BILL LOWRY, STANLEY MOORE, KEVIN B. MORRISON, SEAN M. MORRISON, PETER N. SILVESTRI, DEBORAH SIMS, LARRY SUFFREDIN and JEFFREY R. TOBOLSKI, Cook County Board of Commissioners

PROPOSED RESOLUTION

REMEMBERING AND HONORING THE LIFE OF VILLAGE OF RICHTON PARK TRUSTEE JENNIFER ARTIS

WHEREAS, Cook County joins the Village of Richton Park in mourning Trustee Jennifer Artis, who Almighty God in His infinite wisdom called from our midst on Wednesday, May 8, 2019 at the age of 72; and

WHEREAS, Jennifer served as Village Trustee of Richton Park since 2008, and has been a pillar of the Southland community for many years; and

WHEREAS, Trustee Artis coordinated community and faith-based organizations and residents to develop a regional health care system to address the fragmentation of health care in the southern suburbs for over a decade; and

WHEREAS, Trustee Artis had been the Founder and Chief Executive of the Southland Health Care Forum, and in 1997created the Crossroads Coalition, a coalition of more than 90participants representing community, faith-based and civic organizations where she served as President; and

WHEREAS, in 2006Trustee Artis created The Senior Provider Network, comprised of over 75 individuals representing more than 40senior provider organizations in the southern suburbs, and in 2012 she created Southland Community Care Partners (SCCP) and served as its President as well; and

WHEREAS, she worked closely with southland organizations, legislators, Boards of Directors, including the South Suburban Mayors and Managers and the Southland Chamber of Commerce; and

WHEREAS, Jennifer was a Commissioner on the Cook County Commission on Women’s Issues and previously served on the Advisory Board for the South Suburban Cook County Bureau of Health Services and participated in the Cook County I/We Plan Community Assessment as well as serving on the Advisory Boards of Prairie State and Governors State University; and

WHEREAS, at the time of her passing, Trustee Artis also had affiliations as Board Member of the Prairie Land Region Leadership Board, Illinois Division, American Cancer Society, President’s Advisory Council for Prairie State College, President’s Advisory Council for Governor State University, Advisory Board Directors for Archdiocese of Chicago Catholic Charities, Co-founder and member of South Suburban Hispanic Leadership Council, Suburban Advisory Council Metropolitan Chicago Healthcare Council, Commissioner for Cook County Commission on Women’s Issues, Board Member for Healthcare Consortium of Illinois, Southland Advisory Representative for Chicago Metropolitan Planning Council, Co-founder for South Suburban Senior Provider Network, and Founder for Southland Ministerial Health Network; and

WHEREAS, Jennifer’s honors and awards include: 2006Cook County 6th District Unsung Heroine Award, 2006 Village of Matteson, IL State Representative Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Spirit Award, 2007 Catholic Charities Bertrand Ellis Compassion In Action Award, 2008 Dr. Charles E. Gavin Community Service Spirit Award, 2010City of Chicago Heights Dr. Martin Luther King Community Service Award, 2011Southland Ministerial Health Network Dr. Martin Luther King Community Health Service Award, 2012 Prairie State College Michael R. Monteleone Community Service Award, 2012 Professional Women’s Network Women of Excellence Award, and 2013Chicago Southland Chamber of Commerce Community Service Award; and

WHEREAS, although Jennifer was the recipient of number awards and accolades throughout her career in service to her community, the most important role to Jennifer was being a great mother, grandmother and sister; and

WHEREAS, in addition to her love of helping other, Jennifer loved shopping, fine dining, exquisite wine, spending time with her grandchildren and family; and

WHEREAS, Jennifer Artis leaves behind to cherish her memory, 1 Son, 1 Daughter, 2 Grandchildren, 2 Brothers and 1 Sister; amongst other family and friends;

NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the President and Members of the Cook County Board of Commissioners hereby offers its deepest condolences and heartfelt sympathy to the family and loved ones of Trustee Jennifer Artis; and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED THAT, this text be spread upon the official proceedings of this Honorable Body and a suitable copy be presented to the family of Trustee Jennifer Artis so that her memory may be so honored and ever cherished.

19-3608

PROPOSED RESOLUTION

HONORING CHIEF WARRANT OFFICER 4 (RETIRED) MELISSA FARMER-HILL

WHEREAS, Chief Warrant Officer 4 (Retired) Melissa Farmer-Hill is a native of Chicago, Illinois and has served in the United States Army for over 20 years; and

WHEREAS, after Basic Training at Ft. Dix, NJ and AIT in Fort Belvoir, VA her first duty assignment was with Army Reserve unit 477th Personnel Services Battalion as an Administrative Clerk (71L) at Ft. Sheridan Il from May 1987 until 1992; and

WHEREAS, following a short stint with the Personnel Services Battalion in Forest Park, IL, she decided to join active duty forces and from 1994 - 1995 she served with 2nd Infantry Division, Camp Red Cloud, Korea as a medical retention board clerk; and

WHEREAS, Chief Farmer was then reassigned to Ft. Campbell, KY home of the 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault), where she served as line of duty and casualty NCO from 1995-1998; and

WHEREAS, her next four positions would take her to Germany for five years, where she served as Personnel Reassignments NCOIC in Baumholder from 1998-1999then was reassigned to the 421st Medical Evacuation Battalion as S-1NCOIC in Weisbaden, and within a few months was selected for training and appointed as a Warrant Officer; and

WHEREAS, as a Warrant Officer, Chief Farmer was the Personnel Technician for the 90th Personnel Services Battalion, Bravo Detachment in Bad Kreuznach Germany from 1999-2001, and then was selected to move to Detachment C in Kaiserlautern from 2001-2003; and

WHEREAS, Chief Farmer was reassigned to the 46th Adjutant General Battalion at Ft. Knox, KY as the Adjutant/S1for two years, but later rejoined the 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault) as the Human Resources Technician for the 501st Special Troops Battalion from 2005-2007, and in 2007 was selected as Class Instructor and Advisor for the Warrant Officer Basic and Advanced Human Resource Training Courses at the Soldier Support Institute in Ft. Jackson, SC; and

WHEREAS, from there she went back to Ft. Knox to become the Officer in Charge of the Warrant Officer Recruiting Team at Ft. Knox, Kentucky from 2008-2010, and in 2010was reassigned to the Pentagon and became the Military Assistant to the Secretary of the Army (Hon. John M. McHugh) from 2010 - 2012; and

WHEREAS, Chief Farmer’s final assignment allowed her to return home to the great state of Illinois as the J-1Special Assistant for the United States Military Entrance Processing Command, where she retired in June of 2014; and

WHEREAS, Chief Farmer’s military service awards and decorations include the Bronze Star Medal, the Meritorious Service Medal, the Army Commendation Medal, the Army Reserve Commendation Medal and various unit, campaign and service ribbons, and has also earned the Air Assault Badge, Army Recruiter Badge and Army Staff Badge; and

WHEREAS, Chief Farmer’s accomplishments also include receiving the Douglas McArthur Leadership Award Winner (Germany 2000), Deployments and Kosovo (2001) and Iraq (2005), and is the Author of Army Strong Women (2008) Army Instructor of the Year (2008) and Warrant Officer of the Year for Adjutant General Corps (2008); and

WHEREAS, in addition to her outstanding military career Chief Farmer is also a graduate of Austin Peay State University, with an Associate of Arts in General Studies, Grantham University with a Bachelor of Arts in Business Administration and Roosevelt University with a Bachelor of Arts in Event Planning and Tourism Management; and

WHEREAS, as a veteran Chief Warrant Officer 4 (R) Melissa Farmer-Hill is proud to have served her country;

NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the President and Members of the Cook County Board of Commissioners proudly honors Chief Warrant Officer 4 (R) Melissa Farmer-Hill for her exceptional military career and her service to the country, the community and to Cook County; and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED THAT, this text be spread upon the official proceedings of this Honorable Body and a suitable copy be presented to Chief Warrant Officer 4 (R) Melissa Farmer-Hill as a symbol of our respect and esteem.

19-3618

PROPOSED RESOLUTION

HONORING THE NATIONAL COUNCIL OF JEWISH WOMEN SOUTHERN COOK SECTION

WHEREAS, May is Jewish American Heritage Month, an annual recognition and celebration of Jewish American achievements in and contributions to the United States of America; and

WHEREAS, in light of this celebration it is important to honor the people and organizations that make many contributions in Cook County, such as National Council of Jewish Women (NCJW) South Cook Section; and

WHEREAS, NCJW is a grassroots organization of volunteers and advocates who turn progressive ideals into action. Inspired by Jewish values, NCJW strives for social justice by improving the quality of life for women, children, and families and by safeguarding individual rights and freedoms; and

WHEREAS, the history of NCJW South Cook began in 1921 in Chicago Heights, Illinois and will be 100 years old in 2021. That year, the Jewish Ladies Aid Society of Beth Israel Synagogue joined with the National Council of Jewish Women, Chicago Heights Section with the primary purpose to provide Jewish religious education to the children of families living in the community; and

WHEREAS, the motto of NCJW South Cook is “A Faith in the Future/A Belief in Action”; and

WHEREAS, the members of NCJW are advocates, tutors, readers, art appreciation volunteers, local agency board members, actors and singers who entertain special needs populations, supporters of local emergency shelters, lunch servers, donors, event planners, and so much more; and

WHEREAS, one of the mainstay members is Gloria Lippert, who has been an active member and advocate of NCJW South Cook for many years, and was awarded a Special Volunteer Award in 1996 and again in 2017; and

WHEREAS, Gloria is the recipient of the Iris Dreyfuss Volunteer Recognition Award, which is a special award given by NCJW South Cook in memory of Iris Dreyfuss to a member, who by her service to NCJW has been a model to all, and said award is not given out every year due to the significance of the award to the South Cook Section; and

WHEREAS, Gloria was President of NCJW South Cook from 2002-04, has chaired our Garden Walk from its inception, and does the ads for our directory; and

WHEREAS, Gloria is very focused on our never forgetting how hard-won Roe v Wade was, and how important it is for this generation to not take it for granted and so Gloria doesn’t go anywhere where she does not advocate for our Section and everything we stand for; and

WHEREAS, members are involved in numerous programs and projects that reflect the values of NCJW with the goal of improving the quality of life for women, children and families; and

WHEREAS, NCJW South Cook committee members include: Ellen Kaplan, Debby Pebworth, Debra Borodkin, and President Sharon Johnson; and

WHEREAS, in the past 10years, NCJW South Cook has contributed approximately $500,000to over 15 social service programs that positively impact families and individuals in our community, and as a section locally support the following organizations: South Suburban Family Shelter, Respond Now, Aunt Martha’s, Glenwood Academy, JUF Shalom Over 50s, Israel Granting Program, Prairie State Book Scholarships; and

WHEREAS, it is more important than ever that courageous, compassionate women find a place to come together and take action and NCJW South Cook provides that place; and

WHEREAS, some of their recent public awareness, advocacy and education campaigns include: Exodus Anti-Sex Trafficking Initiative, Voices for Reproductive Choices Campaign, Higher Ground Domestic Violence Campaign, Judicial Nominations Campaign, Plan A Campaign for Contraceptive Access, and Promote the Vote campaign; and

WHEREAS, the members of the Cook County Board of Commissioners are pleased to celebrate Jewish American Heritage Month by highlighting the good work of NCJW South Cook;

NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the President and Members of the Cook County Board of Commissioners proudly honor National Council of Jewish Women Southern Cook Section for their steadfast service to the community, Cook County, and our Country; and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED THAT, this text be spread upon the official proceedings of this Honorable Body and that a suitable copy be presented to Gloria Lippert and President Sharon Johnson as a symbol of our respect and esteem.

19-3157

Sponsored by: KEVIN B. MORRISON, Cook County Board of Commissioners

PROPOSED RESOLUTION

RESOLUTION HONORING VETERAN EUGENE TERMINI FOR HIS MILITARY SERVICE AND VINES SENIOR HOMES’ ACTIVITY DIRECTOR CATHY VADEN FOR HER OUTSTANDING WORK

WHEREAS, Eugene Termini proudly enlisted for the Coast Guard during World War II with his best friend at the age of 17; and,

WHEREAS, he actively served with air and sea rescue in Guam, Pearl Harbor, Panama, and San Francisco on the USS Key West. When he arrived in Guam, it was within a few days of the nuclear bombs being dropped on Japan; and,

WHEREAS, while in Guam he spent two weeks at a time at sea on weather patrol, encountering a typhoon and narrowly escaping to safer waters. After 8 months, he returned to Pearl Harbor and then San Francisco. He looks favorably on his time with the Coast Guard; and,

WHEREAS, he was honorably discharged from active duty status in St. Louis, 1946but never received the medals he was owed; and,

WHEREAS, Eugene tried for 73 years to receive his military medals but was continuously stalled; and,

WHEREAS, no military veteran should be forced to fight for the medals they have earned; and,

WHEREAS, Cathy Vaden, the Activity Director at Vines Senior Homes in Elgin, stepped in to assist Eugene; and,

WHEREAS, without Cathy’s diligence and perseverance Eugene may never have received his medals; and,

WHEREAS, finally, at age 92and 73years late, Eugene Termini was finally presented with his medals by American Legion Elgin Post 57 among family and friends at a patriotic celebration; and,

WHEREAS, Eugene Termini received the American Campaign Medal, the Asiatic-Pacific Campaign Medal, the World War II Victory Medal, a Coast Guard Honorable Discharge pin, and an Honorable Service Lapel Button; and,

THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that we, the Cook County Board of Commissioners, commend Cathy Vaden for her exemplary dedication and work ethic; and,

BE IT FURTHER RESOlved, that we, the Cook County Board of Commissioners, thank Eugene Termini for his service and congratulate him on his five medals.

19-3573

Sponsored by: KEVIN B. MORRISON, Cook County Board of Commissioners

PROPOSED RESOLUTION

HONORING THE FEDERATION OF INDIAN ASSOCIATIONS - CHICAGO

WHEREAS, the month of May is recognized as Asian Pacific American Heritage Month; and

WHEREAS, Cook County celebrates the vast contributions made by Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders in our communities; and

WHEREAS, the Federation of Indian Associations - Chicago is a non-profit umbrella organization of other Indian Associations in the Chicago land and Mid-West representing in excess of 300,000 culturally diverse but united together Asian-Indians; and

WHEREAS, the FIA - Chicago represents and connects various issues of growing Asian-Indian community at the Local, State, and National platform within USA and overseas with Indian Government; and

WHEREAS, the FIA - Chicago was founded by Sunil Shah, Neil Khot, and Onkar Singh Sangha; and

WHEREAS, FIA - Chicago celebrates various events that bring together all Asian-Indian for Indian Republic Day, Indian Independence Day, and Diwali; and

WHEREAS, FIA has member organizations throughout Cook County that contribute to the betterment of our communities and provide opportunities for residents to learn more about and celebrate Indian culture; and

WHEREAS, FIA gives back to our communities by doing outreach events including a successful toy donation drive; and

WHEREAS, Cook County’s strength is in its diversity and FIA - Chicago is an example of that; and

THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that we, the Cook County Board of Commissioners do hereby honor the Federation of Indian Associations - Chicago, all of its member organizations, and contributing individuals for the outstanding work they do in Cook County; and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that suitable copies of this resolution are presented to the Federation of Indian Associations - Chicago.

19-3574

Sponsored by: KEVIN B. MORRISON, Cook County Board of Commissioners

PROPOSED RESOLUTION

DESIGNATING JUNE 15, 2019 COOK COUNTY TOWNSHIP DAY

WHEREAS, Township government is the oldest existing unit of government in the United States, established in 1636 in Providence, Rhode Island; and

WHEREAS, in 1849, the state legislature passed a law enabling counties to adopt a township government by referendum. In that same year, 24 counties voted to adopt a township government; and

WHEREAS, 85of Illinois’ 102counties operate under the Township form of Government and the 1,431 Townships serve more than 8 million citizens; and

WHEREAS, Townships in Cook County offer needed programs and services in the areas of Seniors, Youth, Community Health, Veterans, Mental Health Funding, Property Tax Information, Emergency Services, Unincorporated Roads; and

WHEREAS, Township governments are vital resources to taxpayers with property tax assessments; and

WHEREAS, Township assessors’ main function is to assist residents appeal their assessments. Township assessors also accept and file property tax exemption applications, process building permits and file township assessor inquiries; and

WHEREAS, Township governments work closely with Cook County officials to provide the best services for our constituents; and

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that we, the Cook County Board of Commissioners, honor the work of Township government in providing vital services to the residents of Cook County.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, by the Cook County Board of Commissioners, that June 15, 2019 is Cook County Township Day.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that suitable copies of this resolution are sent by the Cook County Clerk’s Office to the 29 township governments in Cook County.

19-3392

Sponsored by: PETER N. SILVESTRI, Cook County Board of Commissioners

PROPOSED RESOLUTION

DOMINIC DIFRISCO, IN MEMORIAM

WHEREAS, on April 27, 2019, Almighty God in His infinite wisdom called Dominic DiFrisco from our midst; and

WHEREAS, Dominic DiFrisco was the beloved husband of Carol (nee Loverde) and loving father of Nina (Robert) Mariano; and

WHEREAS, Dominic DiFrisco was the proud grandfather of Pasquale Gianni and fond brother of Carmela Soricelli of New York and Louisa Termini of Texas, and uncle and godfather to many; and

WHEREAS, born to Leoluca and Antonina, immigrants from Corleone, Sicily, Dominic DiFrisco was taught the importance of community involvement at an early age; his father’s involvement in many Italian-American causes left a strong impression on him and inspired him to dedicate most of his adult life to the promotion of Italian-American culture and to dispel stereotypes; and

WHEREAS, Dominic DiFrisco began his career at Alitalia Airlines in New York and moved to Chicago as public relations manager for the Midwest; and

WHEREAS, Dominic DiFrisco later made a name for himself helping to build bridges between the public and private sectors as senior consultant at Edelman Chicago, with prominent clients including McDonald’s, the State of Illinois, and the City of Chicago; and

WHEREAS, Dominic DiFrisco was the voice for countless topics important to the Italian-American community and was an early leader of the Joint Civic Committee of Italian Americans, a nonprofit organization that serves as a congress for the Chicagoland Italian-American organizations and represents the community on local, state, national, and international levels; and

WHEREAS, when the Italian-American community was at risk of losing one of its cornerstones-Our Lady of Pompeii Church-Dominic and other Little Italy community members bound together to raise money to save the church, personally petitioning the late Joseph Cardinal Bernardin to allow the church to remain open; and

WHEREAS, Dominic DiFrisco was known by many as the color commentator for decades during the television broadcast of the Columbus Day Parade, displaying his encyclopedic knowledge of Chicago-Italian history; and

WHEREAS, in addition to receiving many awards from the Italian-American community, Dominic DiFrisco has been honored by the African-American and Native-American communities.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Cook County Board of Commissioners does hereby offer its deepest condolences and most heartfelt sympathy to the family of Dominic DiFrisco; and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that this text be spread upon the official proceedings of this Honorable Body, and a suitable copy of the same be tendered to the family of Dominic DiFrisco so that his memory may be so honored and ever cherished.

19-3516

Sponsored by: PETER N. SILVESTRI, Cook County Board of Commissioners

PROPOSED RESOLUTION

HONORING SISTER MICHELLE GERMANSON ON HER TRINITY HIGH SCHOOL

RETIREMENT FROM

WHEREAS, Sister Michelle Germanson will be celebrating her retirement from Trinity High School in River Forest on Wednesday, May 29th, at the high school’s Sister Michelle Germanson Athletic Center; and

WHEREAS, Trinity High School, an all-girl college preparatory high school was founded by the Dominican Sisters of Sinsinawa, Wisconsin, and Sister Michelle Germanson has been a Sinsinawa Dominican Sister for 54 years; and

WHEREAS, Sister Michelle Germanson has ministered through education and leadership roles in Colorado and Illinois, serving as the Dean of Students at Dominican University (formerly Rosary College) before being recruited by Trinity High School; and

WHEREAS, upon assuming her role as president, Sister Michelle Germanson recognized that the challenges facing Trinity were existential to the school-with declining enrollment, flailing finances, and Fenwick High School’s decision to go co-ed, which further drew from Trinity’s population; and

WHEREAS, Sister Michelle was undaunted by these and other challenges. She touted the school’s all-female identity as a strength and implemented block scheduling to allow for more collaborative learning, rightfully believing that her students would thrive in this environment; and

WHEREAS, Sister Michelle also reached out to alumnae, the community, and benefactors to build strong relationships; and

WHEREAS, under Sister Michelle’s leadership, Trinity instituted the prestigious International Baccalaureate program. Trinity was only the second school in Illinois and the first Catholic school to implement the program. In 2017, Newsweek featured Trinity High School as one of the best International Baccalaureate programs in the United States; and

WHEREAS, Sister Michelle, in striving to ensure a well-rounded student body, also undertook projects, such as the construction of a technology center, an athletic facility, and a state-of-the-art health and fitness center; and

WHEREAS, thanks to Sister Michelle’s determination and leadership, Trinity seniors enjoy one-hundred percent college acceptance, and many begin college as sophomores; and

WHEREAS, Sister Michelle says that although she is moving on, she will continue to be one of Trinity’s biggest cheerleaders and avid supporters, and absolutely no one doubts this.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Cook County Board of Commissioners does hereby congratulate Sister Michelle Germanson on her retirement from Trinity High School; and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that a suitable copy of this resolution be tendered to Sister Michelle as a token of our appreciation for her lifelong commitment to the Trinity community.

19-3572

Sponsored by: LARRY SUFFREDIN, Cook County Board of Commissioners

PROPOSED RESOLUTION

HONORING THE LIFE OF RICHARD “DICK” THOLIN

WHEREAS, Richard D. Tholin was a teacher, minister, and activist who brought his faith and his commitments to peace and justice to everything he taught or did; and

WHEREAS, Dick was born on June 28, 1928. He grew up in Downers Grove before moving with his family to Edison Park on Chicago’s northwest side. He attended Taft High School and then North Central College, graduating with a B.A. in Sociology in 1949. In 1952, he graduated from Evangelical Theological Seminary. He was ordained in the Illinois Conference of the Evangelical United Brethren Church in 1953; and

WHEREAS, in 1951, he married Phyllis Eckardt whom he had met at North Central. In 1952, the couple moved to Diversey Parkway Evangelical United Brethren Church where Dick served as Pastor for seven years.; and

WHEREAS, in 1959, he enrolled in Union Theological Seminary where he earned a Master’s degree in World Missions and a Ph.D. in Christian Ethics. He returned to Evangelical Theological Seminary in 1963 as a professor of Church and Community. With the merger of the Evangelical Theological Seminary and Garrett Theological Seminary, he moved with his family to Evanston where he taught at Garrett-Evangelical Theological Seminary until his retirement in 1993. The last eight years of his tenure, he served as Academic Dean and Vice President of Academic Affairs; and

WHEREAS, over his years of teaching, Dick instructed hundreds of soon-to-be-pastors on the importance of understanding and engaging in the social and economic issues of the communities they would serve, both urban and rural; and

WHEREAS, throughout his life, Dick fought for social and racial justice, and for peace, locally, nationally, and internationally, both inside and outside the church; and

WHEREAS, in 1963, he joined a group of ministers on a trip to Jackson, Mississippi, to walk with African American students into White Methodist churches, risking arrest and solidifying his commitment to racial justice in the north; and

WHEREAS, while living in Naperville, he was one of seven plaintiffs who sued DuPage County for promoting racial and economic discrimination in housing, and helped Naperville become the second Chicago suburb to adopt a Fair Housing Ordinance. He worked to organize opposition to the war in Vietnam, stood up for draft-aged young men resisting the draft, and was a leader and board chair of North Suburban Peace Initiative, now called Chicago Area Peace Action; and

WHEREAS, Dick’s work with the United Methodist Church influenced numerous national and international policies and actions. In 1952, he was a delegate to the World Conference of Christian Youth in India. During his 16years on the National Boards of Church and Society and Global Ministries, he worked with African leaders on the development of the United Methodist Church, represented the church in the successful effort to stop Nestle from undermining breastfeeding in developing countries, and helped lead an ecumenical dialogue on death and dying.; and

WHEREAS, after a lifetime of civil disobedience and protest, his first arrest came at the United Methodist General Conference in 2000, while participating in a demonstration in support of LGBTQ rights and an inclusive church. He officiated at same sex unions, prior to and after the legalization of gay marriage; and

WHEREAS, Dick had a passion for Chicago history, over time developing an extensive personal collection of Chicago books and publications, which was donated to the North Central College Library in 2008. Dick played and loved basketball, tennis, and especially handball, which he continued playing with vigor into his 80’s; and

WHEREAS, Dick is survived by his wife, Phyllis Eckardt Tholin; his children Kathryn Tholin (Steve Starr), Barbara Tholin, and David Tholin; and grandchildren Robin Starr Tholin and Ellis Linne Wunsch.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Board of Commissioners of Cook County, on behalf of the 5.2million residents of Cook County commemorates the life of RICHARD “DICK” THOLIN, and herewith expresses its sincere gratitude for the invaluable contributions he has made to the Citizens of Cook County, Illinois; and

https://cook-county.legistar.com/MeetingDetail.aspx?ID=653165&GUID=F8BD9100-D8A3-4CBD-8C8C-AB568A0E20A9&Options=info&Search=

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