Moving Forward with Strength,

 Legacy, and Unity

Cook County proudly celebrated Lunar New Year, the Year of the Horse, honoring the strength and cultural contributions of our Asian American and Pacific Islander communities. The Horse represents determination and forward momentum, values reflected throughout the 3rd District.

We also recognize Black History Month, honoring the legacy and impact of Black leaders who have shaped our nation and neighborhoods. This month, we continue uplifting excellence, expanding opportunity, and advancing equity across Cook County.

As we celebrated Valentine’s Day, we were reminded that love is not only personal, but powerful. Love for our families, our neighbors, and our community strengthens the bonds that move the 3rd District forward.

We pause to remember Rev. Jesse Jackson, whose lifelong fight for civil rights and justice leaves a lasting legacy. As he reminded us, “I am somebody.” We recommit to building communities where every voice matters.

The 3rd District remains strong because of you. My team and I remain dedicated to connecting residents to vital resources, economic opportunities, and essential county services.

Inside this newsletter, you’ll find important updates, events, and resources designed to inform and empower.

Thank you for staying engaged and helping us build stronger, healthier communities together.

Honoring the Life and Legacy of

Reverend Jesse Jackson

Today, I join countless others across our nation with a heavy heart as we reflect on the extraordinary life of Reverend Jesse Jackson. He was far more than a civil rights leader, he was a moral compass for generations, a fearless advocate for justice, and a voice for communities too often pushed to the margins.

Reverend Jackson dedicated his life to expanding opportunity, challenging injustice, and reminding us that progress requires persistence. He embodied courage rooted in faith and demonstrated what it truly means to speak truth to power. His work strengthened families, opened doors that had long been closed, and inspired a movement grounded in dignity and hope.

On a personal level, his leadership profoundly shaped my understanding of service. He showed us that true leadership demands compassion, conviction, and the resolve to continue forward even when the path is difficult. My family and I feel this loss deeply. We mourn not only a public figure, but a man whose example influenced our lives and our commitment to community.

As I continue my work in the 3rd District, I carry forward the lessons he modeled so powerfully: stand firm in faith, fight boldly for justice, and never forget that every person has value. Reverend Jackson’s legacy will endure in the lives he touched and in the ongoing pursuit of equity for all.

May he rest in power, and may we honor him by continuing the work.

#RevJesseJackson

#CivilRightsLeadership

#LegacyOfJustice

#FaithInAction

#3rdDistrictStrong

Honoring Tradition, Inspiring the Future

As we welcome the Year of the Horse, we reflect on the values it represents — determination, resilience, forward momentum, and bold leadership. I was honored to stand alongside Josina Morita, Nicole Lee, and fellow Cook County leaders to recognize this meaningful cultural celebration.

The Lunar New Year gathering served as a powerful reminder of the enduring contributions of Asian American communities across Cook County. From entrepreneurship and public service to culture and community leadership, their impact continues to strengthen our neighborhoods and shape our collective future.

Advancing Equity and Celebrating Culture

Lunar New Year is not only a time of celebration, but also a time of reflection and renewal. It calls on us to recommit ourselves to building a more inclusive and equitable Cook County — one where every culture is honored, every tradition respected, and every resident has a seat at the table.

As we move forward into this new year, I remain steadfast in my commitment to advancing equity, uplifting diverse voices, and fostering opportunities that allow all communities to thrive.

Wishing you and your families a year filled with purpose, progress, prosperity, and shared success.

Click here to view the full video

https://www.youtube.com/live/FGiyJHBK8bA?si=TPfvM1pWbbQ27c2g

#LunarNewYear

#YearOfTheHorse

#CelebrateCulture

#CookCountyStrong

#EquityInAction

Marking 100 Years of Recognition

Wednesday marked a powerful and unforgettable celebration of Black history. The vibrant colors that surrounded us were bold, unapologetic, and deeply meaningful, symbolizing the strength, resilience, and brilliance of a people whose contributions have shaped this nation in immeasurable ways.

This was more than a date on the calendar. It commemorated the 100th year of formally recognizing and honoring Black history, a century dedicated to acknowledging the struggles endured, the barriers broken, and the excellence that continues to rise despite adversity. Reaching this milestone reminds us that progress is built on perseverance, courage, and unwavering faith in a better future.

As we reflect, we pay tribute to the trailblazers who came before us, those who fought for justice when it was denied, who strengthened communities when systems sought to weaken them, and who dared to envision a future rooted in equity and opportunity. Their sacrifices and leadership laid the foundation for generations to thrive.

Black history is American history. It is living, evolving, and ongoing. It challenges each of us to continue the work with intention, purpose, and pride, ensuring that the legacy of resilience and excellence continues for the next 100 years and beyond.

Click here to view the full video

https://www.youtube.com/live/iZ9OtcvLakQ?si=swWsh1saJVj2lqCU

#BlackHistoryMonth

#100YearsOfBlackHistory

#HonoringOurLegacy

#BlackExcellence

#HistoryInTheMaking

Celebrate Your Birthday with the Gift of Health!

Cook County Health is giving the ultimate birthday gift – the gift of health! 🎉 Eligible Cook County residents can schedule free breast and prostate cancer screenings during their birthday month.

Here’s how it works:

✅ For Uninsured Residents: Screenings are provided at no cost.

✅ For Insured Residents: Screenings are billed to your insurance plan.

Who’s Eligible?

🩺 Breast Cancer Screening (Women, 40–74): Must not have had a mammogram in the past 2 years. Includes consultation, assessment, and follow-up.

🩺 Prostate Cancer Screening (Men, 45–69): Must not have had a prostate screening in the past 2 years. Includes consultation, assessment, and follow-up.

The Impact of Birthday Screenings

🎯 Mammograms & PSA Screenings: Nearly 22,000 screenings completed in 2025 – a 17% increase from last year.

🎯 Uninsured Patients: Birthday screenings resulted in a 54% increase in mammograms for those without insurance.

🎯 All Populations: A 17% increase in mammograms overall.

🎯 Breast Cancer Screening Goal: Among women aged 45–75, screenings now exceed the stretch goal at 62.5%.

🎯 Blood Pressure Screenings: Hypertension control (<140/90) is trending upward at 60%, surpassing goals.

Why Screenings Matter

Early detection saves lives by catching cancer before it causes serious problems. Even if you feel fine, screenings can help identify risks before symptoms appear.

🎥 Hear Commissioner Bill Lowry speak about the impact of his Birthday Resolutions initiative here: YouTube Link

Celebrating Community, Connection,

and Our Seniors

This week, I had the pleasure of attending the Be Mine Bingo Valentine’s celebration hosted by Jeanette Taylor and Ward 20. It was truly an unforgettable afternoon filled with joy, laughter, and a beautiful display of community spirit.

There is something incredibly powerful about seeing our seniors gathered together in a warm and welcoming space, enjoying a classic game of bingo, sharing stories, and celebrating love in all its forms. From exciting raffles and delicious food to friendly competition and heartfelt conversations, the energy in the room was uplifting and inspiring.

Events like Be Mine Bingo remind us that community is built on connection. It is about creating moments where our elders feel valued, appreciated, and surrounded by care. I am grateful for leaders like Alderman Taylor who continue to invest in meaningful opportunities that bring neighbors together and strengthen the bonds that unite us.

To everyone who attended and helped make the day special, thank you. It was a beautiful celebration where love truly led the way.

#BeMineBingo

#LoveInCommunity

#SeniorCelebration

#StrongerTogether

An Afternoon of Love and

Appreciation in the 5th Ward

I recently had the honor of attending the 5th Ward Senior Valentine’s Day Luncheon at the Don Nash Community Center, and what an incredible afternoon it was. From the moment I walked into the room, I could feel the warmth, joy, and love all around. Our seniors were smiling, dancing, enjoying great food, and most importantly, celebrating life together.

I want to commend 5th Ward Alderman Desmon Yancy for being the true heart of his community. His leadership and commitment to ensuring that seniors feel valued and appreciated truly matter, and that dedication was on full display. It was a blessing to fellowship, take photos, share laughs, and honor the incredible men and women who paved the way for all of us.

Our seniors deserve to be celebrated not just on Valentine’s Day, but every single day. I left inspired and grateful for the opportunity to stand in unity with the 5th Ward and show love to those who have given so much to our city.

#5thWard

#SeniorValentines

#CommunityLove

#LeadershipWithHeart

#3rdDistrict

An Afternoon of Joy, Fellowship, and Gratitude

I was truly honored to attend the 8th Ward Seniors Valentine’s Luncheon hosted by Michelle Harris on February 13th. The room was filled with joy, laughter, and love, a powerful reminder of what makes Cook County such a remarkable place to call home.

Our seniors are the heart of our communities. Their wisdom, resilience, and lived experiences continue to guide and inspire us each and every day. Seeing everyone dressed in red, smiling, and celebrating together reflected our residents at their very best.

I am deeply grateful to Alderman Harris and the entire 8th Ward team for organizing such a beautiful and meaningful gathering. It was an honor to share in this special moment and to celebrate love, fellowship, and the enduring spirit of our seniors.

#3rdDistrictStrong

#CookCountySeniors

#ValentinesLuncheon

#CommunityUnity

#ServingWithHeart

Applications are now being accepted for the Chicago Cook Technology Academy, a dynamic workforce training program designed to equip veterans with the critical skills needed to thrive in today’s technology industry.

Through a partnership between the Cook County Department of Veterans Affairs, Microsoft, and the National Able Network, this free, 13-week program provides hands-on training in:

Cloud Development

Cloud Administration

Professional Career Readiness Support

Opportunities to interview for full-time tech positions

This initiative is focused on expanding access to high-demand careers and supporting veterans as they transition into the tech workforce.

Apply by February 20th for the cohort starting March 2nd

Apply by February 27th for the cohort starting March 9th

Learn more and apply:

https://www.cookcountyil.gov/.../chicago-cook-technology...

Veterans who are ready to take the next step in their careers are encouraged to apply and share this opportunity with others who may benefit.

#CookCounty #VeteransInTech #WorkforceDevelopment #ChicagoTech #CareerOpportunities

Central West SBIF Applications Open March 1



The Small Business Improvement Fund (SBIF) opens for applications in March in the Central West TIF district. Apply on the SBIF site by March 30, and register for an informational webinar at 1 p.m. on Wednesday, March 4.

Stay informed and engaged with the work of

the Cook County Board of Commissioners.

This section gives you the opportunity to review recent Board meetings and see how policies, resolutions, and investments move forward to serve Cook County residents. From community initiatives to budget decisions and legislative actions, these meetings reflect the ongoing work being done on your behalf.

By revisiting past Board meetings, you can better understand how decisions are made, track issues that matter to you, and remain connected to the progress shaping our communities.

Featured in the News

I’m honored to have my work and community efforts highlighted in various news outlets. Each feature reflects the dedication, collaboration, and impact made through service in Cook County’s 3rd District. Take a look at some of the stories that showcase our continued commitment to uplifting our communities.

Watch Our Story on YouTube

Check out some of the amazing moments we’ve shared across Cook County’s 3rd District! From community events to powerful conversations, these videos highlight the people, partnerships, and passion that keep us moving forward. Grab a seat, hit play, and see the difference we’re making, together!