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PROPOSED RESOLUTION
HONORING TOM SKILLING'S CONTRIBUTIONS
WHEREAS, Tom Skilling has dedicated over four and a half decades to WGN-TV as its chief meteorologist, serving as a beacon of expertise and reliability for viewers across the Chicagoland area and beyond; and
WHEREAS, his illustrious career began at the tender age of 14 with his first job at WKKD radio station in his hometown of Aurora where he noticed the need for accurate local forecasts; and
WHEREAS, later he joined a TV station in Aurora and then moved to Milwaukee and Orlando before landing his dream job at WGN-TV in 1978; and
WHEREAS, demonstrating his exceptional talent and passion for meteorology early on, he has since become a trusted figure in the field, renowned for his in-depth reports, enthusiasm, and utilization of cutting-edge technology; and
WHEREAS, Tom Skilling is known for reporting in numerous terrains and unbearable conditions, such as, Alaska, Las Vegas, an ice-breaking ship in the middle of Lake Huron and famously chased by a tornado in Oklahoma in 2010; and
WHEREAS, his dedication to accuracy and reliability in forecasting has earned him widespread acclaim, exemplified by his accurate prediction of the Groundhog Day blizzard in 2011, showcasing his unparalleled skill and expertise in the field; and
WHEREAS, his role has been instrumental in establishing the Tribune Weather Center, which has enriched the meteorological resources available to the public through various platforms such as television, radio, and print media; and
WHEREAS, Tom Skilling has won multiple Emmys from the Chicago/Midwest chapter of the National Academy of Television Arts & Sciences and in 2018 accepted the Illinois Broadcasters Association "Broadcast Pioneer award;"and
WHEREAS, his renowned work as an educator and researcher has earned him accreditation through his collaborations with NASA, NOAA, and universities on climate change and other topics, in addition to funds he awards to a scholarship ...
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