Resident Honored at Village Board Meeting at Daughter's Request

New Lenox resident Cheryl Durbon knows what it's like to be a mother caring for children. And a grandmother caring for grandchildren.

Durbon was honored Monday at the Village Board meeting at the request of her daughter, Kristie Carvotta, because she's cared for Kristie's 7-month-old son Michael while she and her husband were serving in the Army overseas.

"She was a single parent who raised three children," Carvotta said in an e-mail to Mayor Tim Baldermann explaining why she thought her mother should be recognized. "She finally got a break when we grew up but now she's taking care (of Michael)."

Baldermann presented Durbon with a certificate of appreciation at the beginning of the meeting.

"We're honored to have you here tonight," he said. "You're an amazing citizen of New Lenox."

The mayor contacted her late last week asking her to come to the board meeting, but didn't give her details why.

"I spent the last few days seeing what I did wrong," Durbon said. "I made sure I paid my water bills."

Speaking in tears to the board about her recognition in the "home of proud Americans," Durbon remained modest.

"That's what a mom does," she said. "She loves her kids and loves her grandkids. There's nothing a mother wouldn't do for her family."

An earlier version or this announcement incorrectly identified Kristie as her sister, Annie.