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PROPOSED RESOLUTION
CELEBRATING CLEVELAND WASHINGTON’S 100TH BIRTHDAY
WHEREAS, Cleveland Washington, at 100 years old, is deeply loved and respected by his family, fellow church members, and the residents of Chicago’s West Side community, where he has lived for more than seven decades; and
WHEREAS, Cleveland Washington has faithfully served as an usher at Metropolitan Missionary Baptist Church for an extraordinary 81 years, demonstrating unwavering dedication, humility, and commitment to his congregation, and he is also a respected member of the State Ushers; and
WHEREAS, Cleveland Washington was born on January 22, 1926, in Lelahatchee, Alabama, and raised in Montgomery, Alabama, where he completed his elementary and high school education; and
WHEREAS, after graduating from high school, Mr. Washington proudly served his country in the United States Navy during World War II; and
WHEREAS, following his honorable discharge in 1946, Mr. Washington relocated to Chicago, where he built a life grounded in faith, family, and service to others; and
WHEREAS, it was in Chicago that he met and married the love of his life, Addie, and together they shared 57 years of marriage until her passing; and
WHEREAS, Mr. Washington has lived at the same address since 1949, contributing to the stability, strength, and spirit of his community for generations; and
WHEREAS, Cleveland Washington is the proud patriarch of a large and loving family, including two daughters, three grandchildren, six great-grandchildren, and one great-great-grandson; and
WHEREAS, even at 100 years old, Mr. Washington continues to live an active and vibrant life-he still drives, maintains a garden, cares for his yard, walks daily, and cooks for himself and his loved ones; and
WHEREAS, Cleveland Washington is known for his sense of humor, generosity, and unwavering support for his family, who affectionately say, “He is hilarious and the family’s biggest supporter- to know him is to love him”; now, therefore
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Cook County Board of Commissioners does hereby proudly recognizes and celebrates Cleveland Washington on the extraordinary occasion of his 100th birthday and extends heartfelt gratitude for his lifetime of service, faith, and dedication to his family and community; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that a suitable copy of this resolution be presented to Cleveland Washington and his family as a symbol of admiration, respect, and congratulations on this remarkable milestone.
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