RESOLUTION
WHEREAS, President Barack Obama has named Ernie Banks, a Chicago sports legend, as one of sixteen recipients of the Presidential Medal of Freedom for 2013; and
WHEREAS, The Chicago City Council has been informed of this honor by Alderman Edward M. Burke; and
WHEREAS, Ernie Banks played Major League Baseball with the Chicago Cubs from 1953 to 1971 after starting his career in the Negro American League with the Kansas City Monarchs,; and
WHEREAS, A fan favorite known affectionately as "Mister Sunshine" and "Mr. Cub", Ernie Banks was also the first National League player to win Most Valuable Player honors two years running; and
WHEREAS, Ernie Banks was chosen for the All-Star Team eleven times; and
WHEREAS, A powerful hitter with more than 500 home runs over his nearly two decades with the Chicago Cubs, Ernie Banks earned many distinctions for his talent and performance, including a Gold Glove Award in 1960; and
WHEREAS, Having won the- hearts of fans as a player and coach, Ernie Banks proudly took his place in the Baseball Hall of Fame in 1977, his first year of eligibility, and had his number, 14, officially retired by the Chicago Cubs in 1982; and
WHEREAS, Ernie Banks has inspired many with his love of life and tireless commitment to the "Great American Pastime"; and
WHEREAS, Ernie Banks lends his support to many worthy charitable and social causes; and
WHEREAS, Friends, family, colleagues and distinguished guests will gather later this year at the White House to honor Ernie Banks as he receives our nation's highest civilian honor, the Presidential Medal of Freedom; now, therefore
BE IT RESOLVED, That we, the Mayor and the members of the Chicago City Council, assembled this eleventh day of September, 2013, do hereby commend Ernie Banks on receiving the Presidential Medal of Freedom; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, That a suitable copy of this resolution be presented to Ernie Banks.
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Alderman - 14th Ward