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PROPOSED RESOLUTION
CELEBRATING PROJECT RAINBOW'S INAUGURAL BOOKMARK DESIGN CONTEST AND HONORING STUDENT WINNERS AVA PIA AND MYRA MENDONCA
WHEREAS, Cook County is committed to inspiring its youngest residents through creative, educational, and community-focused initiatives that foster curiosity, literacy, and civic engagement; and
WHEREAS, Cook County recognizes and celebrates October as National Book Month; and
WHEREAS, Cook County's Emmy Award-winning and free Project Rainbow initiative; launched its first-ever Bookmark Design Contest for the 2025-2026 school year, inviting students in kindergarten through sixth grade to express their love for reading and community through art; and
WHEREAS, the Bookmark Design Contest serves as an innovative extension of Project Rainbow's mission to introduce youth to the government in a creative and meaningful way, encouraging artistic expression, literacy, and civic pride among Cook County's youngest learners; and
WHEREAS, students from across the County submitted original designs inspired by themes of books, reading, and community pride, showcasing their imagination and talent; and
WHEREAS, the 2025-2026 contest winners are:
* Ava Pia, a sixth grader at Colin Powell Middle School, whose bookmark design features turtles and the joy of reading. Ava shared, "I drew what I did because I like turtles and reading. I think people should read more and I want my bookmark to help spread that message and read what they like, no matter what."
* Myra Mendonca, a first grader at Mark T. Skinner West Elementary School, whose artwork captures the beauty of Chicago through her eyes. Myra explained, "I wanted to draw it to show the beauty of Chicago seen through my eyes. I could see rain, sun, and a rainbow all together on this day and wanted to share it through a bookmark that would reach all kids. I love Chicago and love seeing all weathers together, all modes of transport together too!"
WHEREAS, Project Rainbow's mission to a...
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