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PROPOSED RESOLUTION
RECOGNIZING 12 YEARS OF SERVICE BY DICK RINER, SITE STEWARD OF BARTEL GRASSLANDS
WHEREAS, Dick Riner played an instrumental role in building community support for the 640 acre, one square mile, Bartel Grassland and helped to establish the Bartel Grassland Volunteers who guide and support the restoration and monitoring of this site; and
WHEREAS, Dick Riner’s creativity, positive attitude and nuanced understanding of complex ecosystems have made him a natural leader in local restoration and outreach efforts; and
WHEREAS, Dick Riner, a retired elementary school teacher, brought his love of teaching to each and every volunteer day at Bartel Grasslands and introduced hundreds of children from all backgrounds to the incredible nature of the Forest Preserves of Cook County; and
WHEREAS, Dick Riner inspires countless people to take a closer look at nature, at birds, at prairies, and at what each of us can do to heal the environment; and
WHEREAS, Dick and Peggy Riner “The Mad Baker of Bartel” have welcomed countless individuals and groups to Bartel Grassland over their many years at the site.
WHEREAS, Dick Riner has maintained stewardship equipment, been on site day after day, season following season, to monitor, work and advocate for Bartel Grassland; and
WHEREAS, Dick Riner’s dedication and leadership resulted in Bartel Grassland being awarded the Chicago Wilderness Conservation and Landscaping Award in 2014; and
WHEREAS, Dick Riner is a shining star and partner of the Forest Preserves of Cook County’s Ecological Stewardship Program; and
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Cook County Board of Commissioners does hereby recognize Dick Riner’s 12 Years of Outstanding Volunteer Service; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that ceremonial copies of this resolution be sent to Dick Riner.
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