October 5 2004 Resolutions

04-R-

RESOLUTION

WHEREAS, Cook County Recorder of Deeds Eugene “Gene” Moore, hereby requests permission to open a second bank account at Amalgamated Bank, Chicago, Illinois; and

WHEREAS, only fees collected for copies of documents through the internet will be deposited to this bank account; and

WHEREAS, Amalgamated Bank offers reliable computerized on-line banking services and Amalgamated Bank is adequately equipped to address the unique internet requirements for the Cook County Recorder of Deeds Office; and

WHEREAS, Amalgamated Bank agrees to pledge collateral at a rate of 110% to insure deposits of the Recorder of Deeds; and

WHEREAS, all internet fee deposits are disbursed monthly to the Cook County Treasurer and the bank account shall be periodically audited by the Cook County Auditor.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the President and Cook County Board of Commissioners hereby gives the Cook County Recorder of Deeds Office the authority to open a second bank account at Amalgamated Bank; and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that Amalgamated Bank will be the new bank for the Recorder of Deeds Office to deposit and disburse internet fees. The following are names of those persons who are authorized to sign checks:

1. Eugene “Gene” Moore (Facsimile), Recorder

2. Darlena Williams-Burnett, Chief Deputy Recorder

3. Casey Griffin, Deputy Recorder

4. Reatha Sue Henry, Administrative Assistant to the Recorder

Approved and adopted this 5th day of October 2004.

04-R-

RESOLUTION

Sponsored by

THE HONORABLE FORREST CLAYPOOL, GREGG GOSLIN, ANTHONY J. PERAICA,

MIKE QUIGLEYAND LARRY SUFFREDIN, COUNTY COMMISSIONERS

Co-Sponsored by

THE HONORABLE JOHN P. DALEY, ELIZABETH ANN DOODY GORMAN,

ROBERTO MALDONADO, JOAN PATRICIA MURPHY, PETER N. SILVESTRI

AND DEBORAH SIMS, COUNTY COMMISSIONERS

THE LOBBYIST CONSOLIDATION RESOLUTION

WHEREAS, different branches of Cook County government employ non county employee paid outside lobbyists to lobby on county issues before the state legislature; and

WHEREAS, the Cook County Board of Commissioners approves more than $400,000 a year from the budget for contracts to retain separate lobbyists for branches of Cook County government; and

WHEREAS, because the lobbying agenda is not centrally managed, the county’s message is often diluted or inconsistent; and

WHEREAS, sometimes County officials use paid outside lobbyists to promote positions in direct opposition to those of the Cook County Board; and

WHEREAS, Cook County needs to present a unified front on pending state legislation; and

WHEREAS, the Cook County Board of Commissioners has oversight authority over all branches of Cook County government and the responsibility for the prudent budgeting and management of tax dollars; and

WHEREAS, trying to maintain a balanced budget, the Cook County Board of Commissioners should not authorize the payment of large lobbyist contracts; and

WHEREAS, constitutionally Cook County elected officials can deploy trained County staff to monitor pending legislation if they so choose; and

WHEREAS, a plethora of lobbyists make it impossible for the County to speak with one unified voice in Springfield; and

WHEREAS, the Office of the President of the Cook County Board of Commissioners currently employs two lobbyists who should solely represent the interests of Cook County.

NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED:

Beginning July 1, 2004, following the end of the Illinois General Assembly spring session, the Cook County Board of Commissioners will no longer approve lobbying contracts submitted by branches of Cook County government. The Office of the President of the Cook County Board of Commissioners, with approval from the Board, will retain two lobbyists to represent Cook County on pending state legislative matters. No lawyer or lobbyist hired to represent the County may represent, as private counsel on non-government issues, any County elected official or political committee of any County elected official while they represent the County.

Approved and adopted this 5th day of October 2004.

04-R-

RESOLUTION

Sponsored by

THE HONORABLE GREGG GOSLIN, COUNTY COMMISSIONER

Co-Sponsored by

THE HONORABLE JERRY BUTLER, FORREST CLAYPOOL, EARLEAN COLLINS,

JOHN P. DALEY, ELIZABETH ANN DOODY GORMAN, CARL R. HANSEN,

ROBERTO MALDONADO, JOSEPH MARIO MORENO, JOAN PATRICIA MURPHY,

ANTHONY J. PERAICA, MIKE QUIGLEY, PETER N. SILVESTRI, DEBORAH SIMS,

BOBBIE L. STEELE AND LARRY SUFFREDIN, COUNTY COMMISSIONERS

AUTHORIZING RFP FOR BUREAU PHARMACY SERVICES

WHEREAS, the Cook County Bureau of Health Services operates five out-patient pharmacies at various locations including the Ruth M. Rothstein Core Center, Provident Hospital of Cook County, Oak Forest Hospital of Cook County and two at Stroger Hospital of Cook County; and

WHEREAS, in 2003 the Bureau of Health Services pharmacies filled 2.2 million prescriptions; and

WHEREAS, the Cook County Bureau of Health Services must cope with a chronic shortage of pharmacists and it has become increasingly difficult to fill pharmacy positions due to a high demand in both the public and private sectors; and

WHEREAS, the private sector is currently experiencing rapid expansion of free-standing pharmacy outlets throughout the region which has significantly increased the number of pharmacies currently located in neighborhoods throughout Cook County; and

WHEREAS, this expansion is fueled, in part, by competition among three major pharmacy chains.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that in an effort to control costs and develop efficient delivery of medicine to Bureau of Health Services patients the Cook County Board of Commissioners does hereby authorize the Bureau of Health Services to issue a Request for Information from private sector entities for the pharmacy needs of the Bureau of Health Services, and report to the Board of Commissioners on the feasibility of implementing a program.

Approved and adopted this 5th day of October 2004.

04-R-

RESOLUTION

WHEREAS, the Cook County Board of Commissioners has adopted a Real Property Assessment Classification 6b that provides an applicant a reduction in the assessment level for an industrial facility; and

WHEREAS, the County Board of Commissioners has received and reviewed an application from Accord Carton Company (AJC Distribution, LLC) and the Resolution from the Village of Alsip for an abandoned industrial facility located at 6155 West 115th Street, Alsip, Cook County, Illinois, Property Index Number 24-20-301-009-0000; and

WHEREAS, the Class 6b requires the validation by the County Board of the shortened period of qualifying abandonment in cases where the industrial facility has been abandoned for less than 24 consecutive months upon purchase; and

WHEREAS, the Cook County Board of Commissioners has determined that the building was abandoned for 18 months at the time of purchase, and that special circumstances are present.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, by the President and Board of Commissioners of the County of Cook, State of Illinois, that the President and Board of Commissioners indicate their approval for the filing of an application for a Cook County Real Estate Classification 6b abatement incentive to the company for an abandoned industrial facility located at 6155 West 115th Street, Alsip, Cook County, Illinois, under the provision for abandonment of less than 24 months; and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the County Clerk is hereby authorized and directed to forward a certified copy of this Resolution to the Office of the Cook County Assessor.

Approved and adopted this 5th day of October 2004.

04-R-

RESOLUTION

Sponsored by

THE HONORABLE JOHN H. STROGER, JR.

PRESIDENT OF THE COOK COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS

WHEREAS, the salary of the Public Defender, an Officer of the County of Cook, has been increased to $149,630.00 annually, effective July 1, 2004, pursuant to Illinois State Statute 55 ILCS 5/3-4004-2 (d).

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the new salary of the Public Defender of Cook County, as amended in accordance with aforesaid Resolution, be approved by the Cook County Board of Commissioners.

Approved and adopted this 5th day of October 2004.

04-R-

RESOLUTION

Sponsored by

THE HONORABLE CARL R. HANSEN, COUNTY COMMISSIONER

Co-Sponsored by

THE HONORABLE JOHN H. STROGER, JR., PRESIDENT, JOHN P. DALEY,

PETER N. SILVESTRI, JERRY BUTLER, FORREST CLAYPOOL, EARLEAN COLLINS,

ELIZABETH ANN DOODY GORMAN, GREGG GOSLIN, ROBERTO MALDONADO,

JOSEPH MARIO MORENO, JOAN PATRICIA MURPHY,

ANTHONY J. PERAICA, MIKE QUIGLEY, DEBORAH SIMS, BOBBIE L. STEELE

AND LARRY SUFFREDIN, COUNTY COMMISSIONERS

DECLARATION OF FRIENDSHIP AND COOPERATION

BETWEEN THE COUNTY OF COOK IN THE STATE OF ILLINOIS, U.S.A.

AND THE PROVINCE OF PALERMO IN THE REGION OF SICILY, ITALY

WHEREAS, the County of Cook, in the State of Illinois, has formed many mutually beneficial relationships with local governments around the world; and

WHEREAS, these relationships are forged in order to extend and strengthen the existing ties of commerce and friendship of these governments; and

WHEREAS, the products of such friendship agreements between the County of Cook and other similar local units of government include, but are not limited to, the exchange of information, export, import and investment promotion, and cultural and educational exchanges; and

WHEREAS, the Province of Palermo in the Region of Sicily, Italy has expressed an interest in forming such a relationship with the County of Cook; now therefore

BE IT RESOLVED, that the County of Cook does hereby accept and reciprocate this interest of the Province of Palermo to form a relationship of friendship and cooperation, and will formalize this relationship through the execution of an agreement of friendship and cooperation (referred to as the “Declaration of Friendship and Cooperation between the County of Cook in the State of Illinois, U.S.A. and the Province of Palermo in the Region of Sicily, Italy.”

DECLARATION OF FRIENDSHIP AND COOPERATION

BETWEEN THE COUNTY OF COOK IN THE STATE OF ILLINOIS, U.S.A.

AND THE PROVINCE OF PALERMO IN THE REGION OF SICILY, ITALY

The Government of Cook County in the State of Illinois, U.S.A. and the Government of the Province of Palermo in the Region of Sicily, Italy, (referred to as the “Parties”), are prompted by the wish to extend and strengthen the existing ties of commerce and friendship between the areas of the County of Cook in the State of Illinois (referred to as “Illinois U.S.A.”) and the Province of Palermo of the Region of Sicily (referred to as “Sicily Italy”).

The Illinois U.S.A. and Sicily Italy have developed an important economy that can be the object of useful exchanges for the citizens and businesses of the communities. To further enable the Parties to achieve their purpose, the Parties hereby execute the following Declaration of Friendship and Cooperation.

The friendship and cooperation referred to in this Declaration will apply to industrial, manufacturing, commercial, scientific and technical enterprises, in both the Illinois U.S.A. and Sicily, Italy, as well as cultural and educational exchanges.

The Parties agree to promote relations and exchanges aimed at developing projects of mutual interest, including specific business agreements. The cooperation shall provide foreign investment protections and security and shall be based on the Italian and United States’ existing laws and regulations, whichever is most effective, within the framework of the participating Parties’ powers.

The Parties intend to develop the broadest cooperation for the mutual benefit of the Parties economically and financially in the industrial, manufacturing and commercial fields by cooperating in organizing agreements by and between the companies within the Areas, and throughout the entire U.S.A. and Italy including, but not limited to the following sectors: high technology, textiles, clothing, leather goods, jewelry, marble, plants and flowers, agricultural and industrial machinery, electronic equipment, medical/surgical instrumentation, plastics, automotive, pharmaceutical and food products.

Methods to carry out this cooperation include the following:

· exchanges of information and professional internships

· organization of classes, seminars, symposia, meetings, conferences, etc.

· trade missions

· export, import, and investment promotion

· trade show assistance and partnership

Additionally, the Parties may agree on additional forms of collaboration pursuant to this Declaration.

The Parties shall make every effort to foster and promote relationships and exchanges between the citizens and businesses of every region of the U.S.A. and every region of Italy, particularly in the industrial, manufacturing, commercial, scientific, and technical areas.

Funding as may be needed for the implementation of the programs in accordance with this Declaration, may be provided by businesses within the U.S.A. and Italy and by either of the Parties in its sole discretion in the form of grants, donations or otherwise for the mutual benefit of the Parties.

In the event of expansion of the programs, agents may be required to fulfill the implementation of the programs in accordance with this Declaration for the mutual benefit of the Parties.

This Declaration shall be drafted and executed in both English and Italian and may be executed in counterparts.

Chicago, October 2004

For the Government of Cook County in the State of For the Province of Palermo in the

Illinois, U.S.A. Region of Sicily Italy

____________________________________ ____________________________________

JOHN H. STROGER, JR. Francesco Musotto

Cook County Board President President, Province of Palermo

Approved and adopted this 5th day of October 2004.

04-R-

RESOLUTION

WHEREAS, the County Board of Commissioners has received and reviewed an application from Rosehall Investments, Inc. and the Resolution from the Village of Schaumburg for an abandoned industrial facility located at 2324 Palmer Drive, Schaumburg, Cook County, Illinois, Property Index Number 02-33-401-015-0000; and

WHEREAS, Class 6b requires the validation by the County Board of the shortened period of qualifying abandonment in cases where the industrial facility has been abandoned for less than 24 consecutive months upon purchase; and

WHEREAS, the Cook County Board of Commissioners has determined that the building was abandoned for 16 months at the time of application, and that special circumstances are present.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, by the President and Board of Commissioners of the County of Cook, State of Illinois, that the President and Board of Commissioners indicate their approval for the filing of an application for a Cook County Real Estate Classification 6b abatement incentive to the company for an abandoned industrial facility located at 2324 Palmer Drive, Schaumburg, Cook County, Illinois, under the provision for abandonment of less than 24 months; and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the County Clerk is hereby authorized and directed to forward a certified copy of this Resolution to the Office of the Cook County Assessor.

Approved and adopted this 5th day of October 2004.

04-R-

RESOLUTION

WHEREAS, the Cook County Board of Commissioners has adopted a Real Property Assessment Classification 8 that provides an applicant a reduction in the assessment level for an industrial facility; and

WHEREAS, the County Board of Commissioners has received and reviewed an application from BI Building, LLC, and the Resolution of the City of Blue Island for an abandoned industrial facility located at 13601 South Western, Blue Island, Cook County, Illinois, Property Index Numbers 28-01-202-005-0000, 29-06-103-008-0000 and 29-06-103-009-0000; and

WHEREAS, Class 8 requires the validation by the County Board of the shortened period of qualifying abandonment in cases where the commercial facility has been abandoned for less than 24 consecutive months upon purchase; and

WHEREAS, the Cook County Board of Commissioners has determined that the building was abandoned for 2 and 1/2 months at application, and that special circumstances are present.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, by the President and Board of Commissioners of the County of Cook, State of Illinois, that the President and Board of Commissioners indicate their approval for the filing of an application for a Cook County Real Estate Classification 8 abatement incentive to BI Building, LLC for an abandoned industrial facility located at 13601 South Western, Blue Island, Cook County, Illinois; and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the County Clerk is hereby authorized and directed to forward a certified copy of this Resolution to the Office of the Cook County Assessor.

Approved and adopted this 5th day of October 2004.

04-R-

RESOLUTION

WHEREAS, the County Board of Commissioners has received and reviewed an application from 1931 East 177th Street, LLC, and the Resolution of the Village of Lansing for an abandoned commercial facility located at 1931 East 177th Street, Lansing, Cook County, Illinois, Property Index Number 29-25-301-046-0000; and

WHEREAS, the Cook County Board of Commissioners has determined that the building was abandoned for 12 months at the time of application, and that special circumstances are present.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, by the President and Board of Commissioners of the County of Cook, State of Illinois, that the President and Board of Commissioners indicate their approval for the filing of an application for a Cook County Real Estate Classification 8 abatement incentive to 1931 East 177th Street, LLC for an abandoned commercial facility located at 1931 East 177th Street, Lansing, Cook County, Illinois; and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the County Clerk is hereby authorized and directed to forward a certified copy of this Resolution to the Office of the Cook County Assessor.

Approved and adopted this 5th day of October 2004.

04-R-

Resolution

WHEREAS, the Cook County Board of Commissioners has adopted a Real Property Assessment Classification 8 which provides an applicant a reduction in the assessment level for an commercial facility; and

WHEREAS, the County Board of Commissioners has received and reviewed an application from Gerald Seida (Riverdale Body Shop), and the Resolution of the City of Chicago Heights, for an abandoned commercial facility located at 311 North Halsted, Chicago Heights, Cook County, Illinois, Property Index Number 32-09-101-032-0000; and

WHEREAS, the Cook County Board of Commissioners has determined that the building was abandoned for 16 months at the time of purchase, and that special circumstances are present.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, by the President and Board of Commissioners of the County of Cook, State of Illinois, that the President and Board of Commissioners indicate their approval for the filing of an application for a Cook County Real Estate Classification 8 abatement incentive to Gerald Seida for an abandoned commercial facility located at 311 North Halsted, Chicago Heights, Cook County, Illinois; and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the County Clerk is hereby authorized and directed to forward a certified copy of this Resolution to the Office of the Cook County Assessor.

Approved and adopted this 5th day of October 2004.

04-R-

RESOLUTION

WHEREAS, the Cook County Board of Commissioners has the legal authority to authorize its departments and offices to open and maintain checking and savings accounts at various banks; and

WHEREAS, it is now necessary to update those persons who are authorized signatories.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Use Tax NOW account at Amalgamated Bank be updated; and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the following are the names of those persons who are authorized to sign checks, wire or otherwise transfer funds from the depository account to the Office of the Cook County Treasurer/Collector approved investment vehicles:

1. Thomas J. Glaser, Chief Financial Officer

2. Walter K. Knorr, Cook County Comptroller

3. Barbara Bruno, Director of Revenue

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the following name as a signatory on the account shall be deleted:

1. John F. Chambers, Cook County Comptroller (retired)

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Cook County Auditor be directed to audit the NOW account of said institution at the close of each Fiscal Year or at anytime the Cook County Auditor sees fit, and to file reports(s) thereon with the Cook County Board; and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that any funds drawn on said NOW account for deposit with the Cook County Treasurer/Collector shall be transmitted to the Cook County Comptroller with an itemization of collections and designation of the account in the Office of the Comptroller.

Approved and adopted this 5th day of October 2004.

04-R-

RESOLUTION

Sponsored by

THE HONORABLE LARRY SUFFREDIN, COUNTY COMMISSIONER

Co-Sponsored by

THE HONORABLE JOHN H. STROGER, JR., PRESIDENT, JERRY BUTLER,

FORREST CLAYPOOL, EARLEAN COLLINS, JOHN P. DALEY,

ELIZABETH ANN DOODY GORMAN, GREGG GOSLIN, CARL R. HANSEN,

ROBERTO MALDONADO, JOSEPH MARIO MORENO, JOAN PATRICIA MURPHY,

ANTHONY J. PERAICA, MIKE QUIGLEY, PETER N. SILVESTRI, DEBORAH SIMS

AND BOBBIE L. STEELE, COUNTY COMMISSIONERS

HONORING DR. J. FREDRICK NORWOOD

WHEREAS, Dr. J. Fredrick Norwood will celebrate 28 years of service as pastor to the Mount Zion Missionary Baptist Church and the Evanston community on October 15, 2004; and

WHEREAS, Reverend Norwood was born on November 28, 1926 in Darlington, South Carolina, to Reverend John Ruben and Benenza McCurry Norwood who instilled in their children the value of service to others and the community; and

WHEREAS, Reverend Norwood has been the foundation of his church and the cornerstone of the community since he moved to Evanston, taking part in a myriad of civic and cultural boards, commissions and events; and

WHEREAS, as Pastor of Mount Zion Church, Reverend Norwood has been instrumental in significantly increasing the membership, expanding the church’s ministries, spearheading structural changes and improvements, and reorganizing the church’s auxiliaries and boards; and

WHEREAS, Reverend Norwood has always made youth a priority, devoted himself and the resources of Mount Zion Church to helping children live up to their fullest potential, inspired youth leadership both in the church and the community, and has ministered to youth in need of guidance and support; and

WHEREAS, Reverend Norwood strives to be a forward thinker and problem solver who works tirelessly to advocate on behalf of social justice issues and encourages his congregation and community members to participate in the civic life of the community; and

WHEREAS, Reverend Norwood’s leadership and accomplishments have been honored by countless civic and religious organizations including the United Methodist Church, NAACP and the Evanston City Council and Police Department; and

WHEREAS, Reverend Norwood is respected and loved by his congregation, colleagues, and all those in the community that have been blessed to know or work with him.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Board of Commissioner of Cook County does hereby congratulate Dr. J. Fredrick Norwood on 28 years of service to Mount Zion Missionary Baptist Church and thanks him for his lifetime of service to others; and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that a suitable copy of this Resolution be tendered to Reverend J. Frederick Norwood as a symbol of this auspicious occasion and let it also be spread upon the official proceedings of this Honorable Body.

Approved and adopted this 5th day of October 2004.

04-R-

RESOLUTION

Sponsored by

THE HONORABLE BOBBIE L. STEELE, DEBORAH SIMS

AND EARLEAN COLLINS, COUNTY COMMISSIONERS

Co-Sponsored by

THE HONORABLE JOHN H. STROGER, JR., PRESIDENT, JERRY BUTLER,

FORREST CLAYPOOL, JOHN P. DALEY, ELIZABETH ANN DOODY GORMAN,

GREGG GOSLIN, CARL R. HANSEN, ROBERTO MALDONADO,

JOSEPH MARIO MORENO, JOAN PATRICIA MURPHY, ANTHONY J. PERAICA,

MIKE QUIGLEY, PETER N. SILVESTRI AND LARRY SUFFREDIN

COUNTY COMMISSIONERS

WHEREAS, our homes should be places of safety and comfort, Domestic Violence can and does turn many homes into places of torment; and

WHEREAS, Domestic Violence may occur in the seclusion of private residences, its impact costs our nation from $5 to $10 billion annually in medical expenses, police and court costs, shelters and foster care, sick leave, absenteeism and non-productivity; and

WHEREAS, a child’s exposure to the father abusing the mother is the strongest risk factor for transmitting violent behavior from one generation to the next; and

WHEREAS, Bishop T.D. Jakes has created the WOMAN, THOU ART LOOSED ministry to address the problem of Domestic Violence and its effect on children, families and communities; and

WHEREAS, he has assembled a gifted crew of performers and filmmakers to create the film adaptation of the best selling novel and stage play, WOMAN, THOU ART LOOSED; and

WHEREAS, the movie tells the story of a young woman raised in an environment of abuse and molestation at the hands of the mother’s boyfriend. And these circumstances lead the young woman into the abyss of drugs, prostitution and prison; and

WHEREAS, this movie educates people about the long term impact domestic violence has on children and our communities; and

WHEREAS, pastor, community advocate, author and playwright, Bishop T.D. Jakes has endeavored to expose the crime of domestic violence, offer encouragement to victims and heighten the support of National Domestic Violence Awareness Month by releasing his movie on October 1, 2004.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that we, the President and the Members of the Cook County Board of Commissioners, do support and encourage widespread viewing of the movie, WOMAN, THOU ART LOOSED, as a means of exposing the abuse that takes place in seclusion and calling us to the front lines to work daily to eliminate this scourge from our nation; and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that a suitable copy of this Resolution be spread upon the official proceedings of this Honorable Body and that a copy of same is tendered to Bishop Thomas D. Jakes, Sr. of Potter’s House Ministries.

Approved and adopted this 5th day of October 2004.

04-R-

RESOLUTION

Sponsored by

THE HONORABLE BOBBIE L. STEELE, COUNTY COMMISSIONER

Co-Sponsored by

THE HONORABLE JOHN H. STROGER, JR., PRESIDENT, JERRY BUTLER,

FORREST CLAYPOOL, EARLEAN COLLINS, JOHN P. DALEY,

ELIZABETH ANN DOODY GORMAN, GREGG GOSLIN, CARL R. HANSEN,

ROBERTO MALDONADO, JOSEPH MARIO MORENO, JOAN PATRICIA MURPHY,

ANTHONY J. PERAICA, MIKE QUIGLEY, PETER N. SILVESTRI, DEBORAH SIMS

AND LARRY SUFFREDIN, COUNTY COMMISSIONERS

WHEREAS, Almighty God in His infinite wisdom has called Mr. Hezekiah Davis from our midst on September 23, 2004; and

WHEREAS, he lived his life in full accordance with biblical and spiritual principles by humbling himself under the mighty hand of God so that He could lift him up; and

WHEREAS, Mr. Davis gained valuable life principles from observing his mother and her diligent work ethics she relied on to provide for her family; and

WHEREAS, he secured a quality education through pursuing his voracious appetite for reading, observing and listening despite not obtaining formal training in school; and

WHEREAS, he appreciated the family structure and demonstrated this through his life as a loving husband and compassionate father; and

WHEREAS, Mr. Davis committed his ways unto the Lord and served his church as a Deacon, Church Secretary, Sunday School Teacher and devotional leader; and

WHEREAS, he was blessed with good health to work full-time as a farmer until the age of 87 and retire to become an educator at Morris Booker College; and

WHEREAS, this great man maintained a reputation as an activist and community leader until his time of transition. He promoted education throughout the community, organized a farm co-op, and encouraged African Americans to vote and campaign for public office; and

WHEREAS, Mr. Davis continued his political involvement and activities to include his participation in the 34th Annual Congressional Black Caucus Convention, September 7-12, 2004. His beloved son, Congressman Danny K. Davis, is a member of the Caucus.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the President and Members of the Board of Commissioners, on behalf of the more than five million residents of Cook County, do hereby extend to the family of the late Mr. Hezekiah Davis our deepest condolences and heartfelt sympathies. Their loss is shared by this Honorable Body and the people of 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 a copy of same be tendered to the family of the late Mr. Hezekiah Davis in honor of his dedicated life.

Approved and adopted this 5th day of October 2004.

04-R-

RESOLUTION

Sponsored by

THE HONORABLE BOBBIE L. STEELE, DEBORAH SIMS

AND EARLEAN COLLINS, COUNTY COMMISSIONERS

Co-Sponsored by

THE HONORABLE JOHN H. STROGER, JR., PRESIDENT, JERRY BUTLER,

FORREST CLAYPOOL, JOHN P. DALEY, ELIZABETH ANN DOODY GORMAN,

GREGG GOSLIN, CARL R. HANSEN, ROBERTO MALDONADO,

JOSEPH MARIO MORENO, JOAN PATRICIA MURPHY, ANTHONY J. PERAICA,

MIKE QUIGLEY, PETER N. SILVESTRI AND LARRY SUFFREDIN

COUNTY COMMISSIONERS

WHEREAS, Domestic Violence Awareness Month evolved from the first Day of Unity observed in October 1981 by the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence (“NCADV”); and

WHEREAS, the efforts of the NCADV grew and more people joined in the efforts to address this crisis, the first Domestic Violence Awareness Month was observed and the National Hotline was established in October 1987; and

WHEREAS, the social blight of domestic violence continues to burden our country and this is evidenced by statistics of dreadful incidences; and

WHEREAS, the National Domestic Violence Hotline has received more than 700,000 calls for assistance since February 1996; and

WHEREAS, 31% of American women report physical or sexual abuse by a husband or boyfriend at some point in their lives; and

WHEREAS, studies show that child abuse occurs in 30%-60% of family violence cases that involve families with children; and

WHEREAS, in 92% of all domestic violence incidents, crimes are committed by men against women; and

WHEREAS, between 1976-1996, 31,260 women were murdered by an intimate; and

WHEREAS, family violence costs the nation from $5 to $10 billion annually in medical expenses, police and court costs, shelters and foster care, sick leave, absenteeism and non-productivity; and

WHEREAS, husbands and boyfriends commit 13,000 acts of violence against women in the workplace every year; and

WHEREAS, one in five female high school students reports being physically or sexually abused by a dating partner.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that we, the President and the Members of the Cook County Board of Commissioners, do support and recognize October as Domestic Violence Awareness Month 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.

Approved and adopted this 5th day of October 2004.

04-R-

RESOLUTION

Sponsored by

THE HONORABLE JOHN P. DALEY AND PRESIDENT JOHN H. STROGER, JR.

COUNTY COMMISSIONERS

Co-Sponsored by

THE HONORABLE JERRY BUTLER, FORREST CLAYPOOL, EARLEAN COLLINS,

ELIZABETH ANN DOODY GORMAN, GREGG GOSLIN, CARL R. HANSEN,

ROBERTO MALDONADO, JOSEPH MARIO MORENO, JOAN PATRICIA MURPHY,

ANTHONY J. PERAICA, MIKE QUIGLEY, PETER N. SILVESTRI, DEBORAH SIMS,

BOBBIE L. STEELE AND LARRY SUFFREDIN, COUNTY COMMISSIONERS

WHEREAS, the Honorable Norman Mineta, United States Secretary of Transportation, has successfully negotiated a new bilateral aviation agreement between the United States of America and China, providing for expanded routes and more convenient scheduling options for air travel from the U.S. to mainland destinations in China; and

WHEREAS, Cook County is a center of international business and commerce, and China is one of its largest and fastest growing trade partners, with millions of dollars in goods and services imported and exported every day; and

WHEREAS, with its central location, Cook County is home to the second-largest number of national trade associations in the nation, and more than 50% of America’s industrial economy can be accessed from the region by truck or train in less than 24 hours; and

WHEREAS, Cook County is an international financial center and the capital of risk management for its international exchange markets; and

WHEREAS, one out of every four manufacturing jobs in Illinois is dependent upon exports, with Illinois exports to foreign markets recently topping $37 billion, the majority of which is channeled through the international transportation hub of Cook County; and

WHEREAS, continued economic growth for Cook County’s international trade sector is dependent upon convenient and frequent commercial air service between Chicago and the world’s top business destinations; and

WHEREAS, as a center for industry and commerce in China, the City of Shanghai plays a vital role in the growing trade relationship between Cook County and China; and

WHEREAS, American Airlines is seeking to offer new, daily nonstop service between O’Hare International Airport and Shanghai International Airport, beginning in 2005; now therefore

BE IT RESOLVED, by the Board of Commissioners of Cook County, that the Board does hereby offer its congratulations to Secretary Mineta on the successful adoption of a bilateral aviation agreement with China, and does hereby lend its support to American Airlines plan to provide new service between Chicago and Shanghai; and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that this text be spread upon the official proceedings of this Honorable Body, and a suitable copy of same be tendered to Secretary Mineta of the United States Department of Transportation.

Approved and adopted this 5th day of October 2004.

04-R-

RESOLUTION

Sponsored by

THE HONORABLE JOHN P. DALEY AND PRESIDENT JOHN H. STROGER, JR.

COUNTY COMMISSIONERS

Co-Sponsored by

THE HONORABLE JERRY BUTLER, FORREST CLAYPOOL, EARLEAN COLLINS,

ELIZABETH ANN DOODY GORMAN, GREGG GOSLIN, CARL R. HANSEN,

ROBERTO MALDONADO, JOSEPH MARIO MORENO, JOAN PATRICIA MURPHY,

ANTHONY J. PERAICA, MIKE QUIGLEY, PETER N. SILVESTRI, DEBORAH SIMS,

BOBBIE L. STEELE AND LARRY SUFFREDIN, COUNTY COMMISSIONERS

WHEREAS, in 1921, on Christmas Day, a Mass was celebrated in an Oak Lawn home at 95th and 52nd Avenue; and

WHEREAS, from these humble beginnings, the parish of St. Gerald began to take shape, with a congregation of ten families holding Mass in a vacant hall at 95th and Tully; and

WHEREAS, in response to the growing needs of the Catholic community, ground was broken for a new church at 95th and Minnick on Thanksgiving Day, 1922, and just five months later, the first Mass was celebrated at the new St. Gerald Church at that location; and

WHEREAS, on September 15, 1929, the parishioners gathered at 94th and Central to watch as the cornerstone was installed at a newer, larger church, and the first Mass was celebrated there on the Feast of the Immaculate Conception; and

WHEREAS, St. Gerald’s Mission became a full parish in 1934 when Reverend Loras Welsh was appointed pastor by Cardinal Mundelein; and

WHEREAS, continued growth and success required construction of yet another new church at the present location, and the dedication on May 18, 1958, by the Most Reverend Raymond Hillinger, Auxiliary Bishop of Chicago, was a joyous occasion indeed; and

WHEREAS, since its proud beginning St. Gerald Catholic Church has continued to grow and serve the needs of the community, and has continued to build upon the traditions of family, education and Catholic leadership that have been so important to the parish and the Village of Oak Lawn; and

WHEREAS, over the decades, St. Gerald has been blessed by the capable leadership of four outstanding pastors, Reverend Loras Welsh, Monsignor William McNichols, Reverend William White and Reverend Richard LoBianco; and

WHEREAS, this occasion marks the 75th Anniversary of St. Gerald Catholic Church and the 70th Anniversary of St. Gerald’s Catholic School; now therefore

BE IT RESOLVED, by the Board of Commissioners of Cook County that the Board does hereby extend its congratulations to all the parishioners, past and present, of St. Gerald Catholic Church on the joyous occasion of its 75th Anniversary, and 70th Anniversary of the school; and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that this text be spread upon the official proceedings of this Honorable Body, and an official copy of same be presented to the parish of St. Gerald, to commemorate this historic milestone.

Approved and adopted this 5th day of October 2004.