Easterseals Joliet Region holds annual meeting

JOLIET – The annual meeting for Easterseals was held Sept. 22 at Easterseals Regional Pediatric Center on Barney Drive in Joliet.

Wayne Chesson, State Farm agent from Channahon, presided as chairman.

Edna Brass, retired director of special services, Joliet Township High School, continues as vice chairman.

Dr. Michael Cohen, orthopedic surgeon, continues as treasurer.

Pamela Heavens, executive director, Will-Grundy Center for Independent Living, continues as secretary.

New directors installed are: Jean Bunce, Enrique Cabrera, Deb Schimerowski, Cathy Schley, and Ralph Schultz.

Kris Honiotes, president of Joliet Junior Woman’s Club, was installed as honorary.

Continuing board members are Past Chairman Don Theobald, Christopher Chesson, Joyce Donahue, Timothy Gallagher, Jody Glotfelty, John Greenwood, Debbie Highland, Lyle Hughart, Bryan Kasprisin, Pamela Mott, Robert Narvick, Leslie Newbon, Ronald Szymczyk and Keith Winfrey.

Dave Silverman was recognized for 12 years of service. Easterseals thanked Brian Talley and Cindy Cook for their board service.

Wayne Chesson, chairman, presided over the outdoor recognition of the Exelon Generation/Braidwood Station “Fishing for a Cure” Committee, presenting a plaque for the group’s generous fundraising for Easterseals followed by the pledge of allegiance at the Flagpole dedication to veterans and military families.

Mike and Mary Grady were recognized as the “Old Glory Sponsor” and Harrah’s Casino as the “Stripes Sponsor." K&D Landscaping installed the Veterans' Brick Paver garden as an in-kind contribution.

President/CEO Debra Condotti highlighted Easterseals service to more than 3,450 individuals. Don Theobald, Theobald and Associates, represented the Dr. Scholl Foundation in Easterseals dedication of the Autism Family Resource Center.

Staff were recognized for service to Easterseals as follows:

• 15 years of service – Devita Doss, Linda Edwards, Diane Sanchez, Chrystal Sanders

• 10 years of service – Mary Belle Hinton  Alma Rolon

• 5 years of service – Stephanie Berk, Dana Christian, Norma Contreras. Kristianne Dierkes, Amy Domingo, Kristin Kappel, Lisa Meyer, Ashley Nelson, Lateasha Patrick, Amanda Schilling, Michael Towles, Nicole Underhill

Easterseals acknowledges the retirement of Eunice Jones.

Easterseals Joliet Region includes Will, Grundy, Kendall, Kankakee, Ford and Iroquois Counties and has provided local direct services for more than 67 years to children and adults with disabilities, those with special needs and their families, affecting the lives of countless individuals.

For more information regarding Easterseals, including the Loveable Lilies Childcare Program, call 815-725-2194. For those interested in becoming foster parents or caregivers, call 815-741-5531.