Have you heard of NeighborSpace? It’s an innovative way for the Forest Preserve District of Cook County to support Chicago residents through open space projects that were once considered too small and too urban to be compatible with the District’s system of preserves and natural areas. By design, the Forest Preserves circle the city, an oasis of natural areas and vast open spaces offering an escape from the stress, structure and congestion of urban living. But what about people who don’t have easy access to the Preserves?

The Cook County Board of Commissioners approved an agreement that creates a mutual aid relationship between Cook County and the Illinois Public Works Mutual Aid Network (IPWMAN). As a member of IPWMAN, Cook County will have access to valuable statewide resources that will allow the County to augment its existing arsenal of resources, and improve response times during disasters and emergencies.

One in eight women will be diagnosed with breast cancer in their lifetime. It is the most commonly diagnosed cancer in women, and remains the second leading cause of death among women. The good news is that death rates for this disease have been on the decline since 1990, partially due to better screening and detection techniques, increased awareness and improved treatment options.

The Forest Preserve District of Cook County (FPDCC) has published an early draft of its camping master plan. The plan is available for public viewing online at www.fpdcc.com/camping. The plan is working document, and remains in a conceptual phase. It was presented to the public for feedback during a series of open meetings held on August 22 and August 23. The final version, incorporating public comments and operational assessments, will be complete in October.

Chief Judge Timothy C. Evans and Juvenile Justice Division Presiding Judge Michael P.

Cook County’s new Wellness Council convened for the first time to begin an on-going discussion on ways to build a culture of health and fitness for thousands of county employees, President Preckwinkle announced today. The Wellness Council reflects a cross section of the community and is comprised of individuals dedicated to employee wellness, including representatives from labor unions, the Cook County Health and Hospital System, Blue Cross Blue Shield and the President’s Office.

To date, Cook County Department of Public Health (CCDPH) officials report 23 human cases, 284 mosquito pools and six birds with West Nile virus (WNV) throughout suburban Cook County. These 23 cases do NOT include Chicago, Evanston, Skokie, Stickney Township or Oak Park – these communities have their own state certified local health departments.

Cook County Board President Toni Preckwinkle together with Dr.

Cook County Board of Review Commissioner Michael M. Cabonargi will hold seminars with State Senator John Mulroe, State Representative Michael McAuliffe, Commissioner Peter Silvestri, Mayor Ronald Oppedisano, and Mayor Arlene Jezierny on how homeowners can appeal their property assessment and potentially lower their property tax bills.