On Friday, March 15th, Cook County Commissioner Frank J. Aguilar, 16th District Commissioner on Women’s Issues Claudia Ayala, Leyden Township Supervisor Rocco Biscaglio, and Franklin Park Mayor Barrett Pedersen hosted the Third Annual 16th District Women’s Power Brunch to celebrate women leaders throughout Cook County and the 16th District. The event, located at Pescatore Restaurant in Franklin Park, brought over 100 individuals to honor and celebrate Mrs. Fiorito and the other women elected officials and leaders of the 16th District. In attendance were Honored Guests Cook County President Toni Preckwinkle and State Representative Elizabeth “Lisa” Hernandez, State Representative Norma Hernandez, the 16th District Peggy A. Montes Unsung Heroine Award winner Debra Fiorito, and local women elected officials and community leaders throughout the municipalities of the 16th District.  Also in attendance was Mrs. Fiorito’s family, who with the other women elected, were credited by Mrs. Fiorito as the reason she became involved in politics and community service. This ceremony featured a Power Panel of women leaders who discussed their work, goals, and policies they advocate for with state, county, and municipal leadership. On the panel was the 2024 Unsung Heroine Award Winner Debra Fiorito, State Representative Norma Hernandez, and Franklin Park Director of Health and Human Resources Lisa Anthony. After the panel, Franklin Park Village Clerk April Arellano delivered closing remarks.

Photo Credit: The Office of Cook County Commissioner Frank J. Aguilar