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* The Golden Horseshoe Award for best legislative campaign staff director is Will Cousineau, of the House Democratic staff. Will not only got a ton of nominations, but they were the best written and most insistent. His father even chimed in…
My vote is for my son, Will. There are many times that he can not be with us because of his dedication to his job. Other times he may be with us but always takes whatever time is necessary to stay connected to those who count on him at the state. He is dedicated, loyal, strategic and conscientious. I could not dream of a career that he would be more devoted to. You are fortunate to have a person like him in your court.
Frankly, all of the campaign staff directors are solid people and are good at what they do. I respect every one of them. They’re all winners in my book. So, the other three tied for runner-up.
* On to today’s nominees. First up, the Beth Hamilton Golden Horseshoe Award for best House secretary/admin. assistant. We named it after Beth because she kept winning.
And, then, of course, we have the Golden Horseshoe Award for best Senate secretary/admin. assistant.
Have at it, and remember to explain your nomination in full. This is not a game of numbers, it’s about the intensity of the nominations. Thanks much.
...Adding… Try to nominate in both categories, please.
posted by Rich Miller
Wednesday, Dec 14, 11 @ 11:45 am
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Best in the house would have to be Kristin Milligan. She is dedicated, friendly and knows the in and outs of absolutely everything.
Best in Senate, I always have to say Robert Toledo. Not only is he smart, a hard worker, and quick on his feet, but he will make you feel at home anytime you are by his desk.
Comment by Soooo... Wednesday, Dec 14, 11 @ 11:53 am
Jill Rock would have been “BEST” secretary, but she ran off and got married
So let’s go with Bunny Fourez who has been saddled with Senator Link for years.
Bunny also gets a great crush of hallway traffic
and always handles the crowd with grace.
Plus the name is the BEST
Out of respect for Beth we will defer on the House although Ben LaZarre who mans the turnstyle in Room 300 would be the next obvious choice
Comment by AnnonieMoose Wednesday, Dec 14, 11 @ 12:07 pm
I’m going to get my dad to write all my recommendation letters from now on.
Comment by ChicagoR Wednesday, Dec 14, 11 @ 12:19 pm
First, I would just say that Will’s dad should keep a low profile because he may be the next staffer’s parent on McSweeney’s hit list.
For house, i nominate michelle braker in cross’ office. she controls a lot of traffic effectively,deals with as many former reps as she does current reps and in between her outbursts of “serenity now” she manages to keep the m&m jar filled.
Comment by Easy Wednesday, Dec 14, 11 @ 12:36 pm
Patty Williams (Admin Assistant to Senate Democrats Communications Department) because my day is incomplete without her informative emails.
Comment by winner Wednesday, Dec 14, 11 @ 12:52 pm
Sally McDaniel Smith is the nicest, happiest, and smartest administrative assistant in the building. She could do any job in the whole state and she’d still bring back Bento for every person on the house atty staff when she’s done with her lunch hour. I cannot believe she hasn’t been poached. Sally is interesting, hard working, a great person, and I’m beyond glad to know her.
Comment by Rayne of Terror Wednesday, Dec 14, 11 @ 12:52 pm
Sally Smith for the House, although she’s so much more than an administrative assistant. She is one the smartest, hardest working people in this building. Many don’t know her because she’s tied to her chair in Ellis’ office, but this classy lady is the reason that office functions. She’s den mother to the Speaker’s legal staff. She tracks every bill and knows everything that’s going on in this place. She’s priceless.
Comment by SallyForHorseshoe Wednesday, Dec 14, 11 @ 1:11 pm
Carol from Leader Currie’s office. Does not matter if you are one of the “big dog” lobbyist, new staffer or department legislative liasion, she is cordial to everyone, and treats them like they are the most important person in her life. I’ve never seen her have a bad day. She is real pro and credit to the Leader.
Comment by Give Me A Break Wednesday, Dec 14, 11 @ 1:28 pm
Patty Williams gets my vote also. She’s super friendly, intelligent, professional and always ready to help lend a hand. You go, Patty!
Comment by anon Wednesday, Dec 14, 11 @ 1:32 pm
I nominate the assistants to the 2 Dem chief legal counsels, Selena Gorman (Senate) and Sally Smith (House). Everybody wants to talk to the lawyers and persuade them to talk to their leaders. Selena and Sally are very professional and know how to deal with some of the “pushier” lobbyists.
Comment by Gator Wednesday, Dec 14, 11 @ 1:33 pm
I have to pick Patty Williams in the Senate for willingness to always help, but I like Robin Gragg as well…Choices!
Comment by racecar Wednesday, Dec 14, 11 @ 1:37 pm
I am voting for Patty Williams she is sweet as pie to complete strangers
Comment by Dabears Wednesday, Dec 14, 11 @ 1:40 pm
Susie Morris with the Senate Dems’ policy staff is always professional, friendly, and compassionate. She is a truly sparkling person. And here’s another vote for Sally McDaniels Smith on the House side.
Comment by YossarianLives Wednesday, Dec 14, 11 @ 1:41 pm
Patty Williams….she is always friendly and helpful to all!
Comment by bookgirl Wednesday, Dec 14, 11 @ 1:45 pm
Patty Williams. She comes in with the same positive attitude everyday, and lot of days attitude is everything. Patty would do just about anything to help anyone.
Happy to know you Patty!
Comment by anon Wednesday, Dec 14, 11 @ 1:49 pm
Patty Williams is always courteous and friendly on the phone, and her informative e-mails brighten my day!
Comment by Anon Wednesday, Dec 14, 11 @ 2:06 pm
My vote is for The Bulldog Selena Gorman. She has one of the. toughest groups in the capitol to wrangle, the Senate Democrat Legal Review Staff, while also being trusted with highly sensitive material.
Comment by Anon Wednesday, Dec 14, 11 @ 2:14 pm
I forgot a Senate nominee: I echo everything that has been said about Selena Gorman.
Comment by SallyForHorseshoe Wednesday, Dec 14, 11 @ 2:29 pm
My vote would be for Sally Smith for the House. She is the ultimate organizer, editor, and conversationalist around. The office wouldn’t run without her!
Comment by City Slicker Wednesday, Dec 14, 11 @ 2:38 pm
I agree with the Suzie Morris nomination. I have never seen her unhappy. for the House, Joann Sullivan in the Speaker’s office is such a nice person to work with, and a true professional. I wish Sue Staley was still with us, because she would get my nomination every year.
Comment by bored on1 Wednesday, Dec 14, 11 @ 2:38 pm
SInce we cannot vote for Beth anymore I will go with the following
House: Kelly Large Frank Mautinos Secretary. She made an easy tranistion to leadership offices and is great to deal with.
Senate: Natalia Solomon great to talk to and working for the busiest guy in the Capitol this past year (Kwame Raoul) was not easy
Comment by Obamas Puppy Wednesday, Dec 14, 11 @ 2:53 pm
Sally Smith is great. She is personable, energetic, professional, organized and highly effective.
Comment by MJ Wednesday, Dec 14, 11 @ 2:58 pm
Just for the record, if we could still vote for BETH , she would win again!
Comment by Lou Wednesday, Dec 14, 11 @ 3:05 pm
Sally Smith and Selena Gorman should win. There are many wonderful assistants in this building but these two are standouts. I don’t know how they do it. These poor souls are forced to spend ridiculous amounts of time with lobbyists and lawyers. Both are smart, charismatic, wonderful women who remain calm under pressure.
Comment by Endof2011 Wednesday, Dec 14, 11 @ 3:05 pm
Kristen Milligan - for putting up with the throngs of “hangers on” in Skip’s office.
Abby Walsh - had to endure a gubernatorial campaign last year and can’t get away from Bill since she travels back to the district.
Comment by Pink Tomato Wednesday, Dec 14, 11 @ 3:10 pm
Kristin Milligan, Skip Saviano’s secretary, is hand’s down the best. She handles every person (visitor, legislator, lobbyist) with grace and kindness. She is efficient and hard-working. There isn’t a more wonderful right-hand man or woman in the capitol.
Comment by Jerry Wednesday, Dec 14, 11 @ 3:23 pm
Kristin Milligan is the Best in the House. She knows the ins and outs, works or not just one Rep but what seems like all of them, and is willing to do anything for anyone.
Comment by 119 Wednesday, Dec 14, 11 @ 3:26 pm
Best in the house - Kristin Milligan. Whenever there is an issue for a constituent Kristin is always ready willing and able to help regardless if it’s one on Skip’s constituents or not. She is always my best source when I need anything in Springfield. She also should get special recognition for dealing with all of us who hang out in Skip’s office during session. She is great. Go Kristin!!!
Comment by Chryscon Wednesday, Dec 14, 11 @ 3:30 pm
I vote for Kristin Milligan in the House. She is excellent at handling any and all issues that my arise. Wonderful with people.
Comment by Mom knows best. Wednesday, Dec 14, 11 @ 3:36 pm
My vote for the House: Skip Saviano’s Kristin Milligan, hands down. It’s difficult enough to be a legislative secretary for a State Rep. But to be one for a member in leadership….nearly impossible and chaotic. She handles legislative duties, JACAR duties, consituent duties, and puts up with all the staff and lobbyists that have important dealings with Leader Saviano. She always does it with style, patience and a million dollar smile.
In the Senate, Bunny, Senator Link’s legislative secretary. Being the secretary for a senator in leadership takes patience and assertiveness, which Bunny has. She is so friendly, kind and knows everyone.
Comment by eddy Wednesday, Dec 14, 11 @ 3:38 pm
Kristin Milligan, cause she puts up with skip.
Comment by MC Wednesday, Dec 14, 11 @ 3:38 pm
Kristin Milligan should be the winner hands down. She is the smartest, kindest person and I can promise you she knows more about the ins and outs of that place than most anyone there. And come on, she has to put up not only Skip ( which should win her the award instantly anyway) but she has Mike Noonan as a brother-in-law as well. Give the girl the prize….she deserves it!!!
Comment by Anon Wednesday, Dec 14, 11 @ 3:38 pm
Oh and for the senate, I vote for Robert Toledo all the way. He is one friendly, hard working guy with a ton of personality and smarts!
Comment by Anon Wednesday, Dec 14, 11 @ 3:40 pm
I vote for Kristen Milligan for the House and Judy Dowis in the Senate . My brother said they are the most dedicated employees to their respected bosses.
Comment by Lilbro Wednesday, Dec 14, 11 @ 3:41 pm
Kristin because a) she has to put up with more crap than most and b) the end of session party. Well, ok, mostly because of b.
Comment by The Captain Wednesday, Dec 14, 11 @ 3:43 pm
I vote for Kristin Milligan. Simply put she puts up with us and is the best I have ever worked with.
Comment by Jimmy Wednesday, Dec 14, 11 @ 3:44 pm
I’m sensing an organized effort.
People, try to nominate in both categories, please.
Comment by Rich Miller Wednesday, Dec 14, 11 @ 3:44 pm
Kristin Milligan hands down. Not only is she professional, competent, and hard working- she puts up with people (staff, lobbyists, legislators and journalists) basically “squatting” in her office days on end during Session and never loses her cool. She remains friendly and helpful- always lending a hand. She deserves this recognition.
My vote for the Senate is Bunny. She works hard for Leader Link and I’ve never seen her not smiling. Which can be rare around the Capitol!
Comment by Girls Couch Club Member Wednesday, Dec 14, 11 @ 3:48 pm
I have to go with Robin Gragg in the Senate. She is always friendly and helpful, no matter who she’s dealing with. Even though she’s having to wrangle people wanting to see Clayborne or Harmon or who want to see Andy Manar or President Cullerton or who just want to stop by (or call - that phone seems to ring all.the.time), she always has a kind word and a smile for everyone!
I don’t deal with the House as much, so I really don’t have a nomination there. I’ve never dealt with anyone, though, who wasn’t wonderful.
Comment by Katiedid Wednesday, Dec 14, 11 @ 3:48 pm
Kristin Milligan has my vote. Not only does she have a family at home she also has about 30 kids at the Capitol. She makes sure we are all dressed correctly, makes sure we have all eaten and that we are never late to school. And she does all of this not because its her job but because she cares for us all like we were her own. Even if she doesn’t win I would like to thank her for everything she does. Your the best Kristin
Comment by 217 Wednesday, Dec 14, 11 @ 3:50 pm
Sorry, Rich. Didn’t mean to exclude the Senate. I just feel so passionately about Kristin Milligan! As for Senate, Mary Alice. She’s hard working & fills-in for members without a secretary. So great.
Comment by Jerry Wednesday, Dec 14, 11 @ 3:53 pm
Kristin Milligan is absolutely the best in the House. She’s dedicated, patient, smart and kind and we all know puts up with waay too much cray crap from legislators and lobbyists alike - most of whom forget to thank her for their endless demands.
Natalia Solomon for Senate
Comment by Anonymous Wednesday, Dec 14, 11 @ 3:53 pm
Cheryl Sakris (Althoff) on the Senate side. Always extremely helpful and keeps her boss on track.
Carol Shehorn (Currie) on the House side. As someone mentioned above, she always treats everyone very well no matter who they are.
Comment by Bluefish Wednesday, Dec 14, 11 @ 3:56 pm
Yeep Sorry Rich Bunny in the Senate. She knows what is going to happen before the members do and has never not been in a great mood even after all her years of service.
Comment by 217 Wednesday, Dec 14, 11 @ 3:56 pm
For the Senate - Bunny’s great, but I have to go with Robert Toledo too. He works hard, he’s smart, always has a smile and will help ANYONE with ANYTHING. Steans is lucky to have him and I wouldn’t be surprised if even she isn’t surprised he hasn’t moved on yet. He’s all around awesome.
Comment by Liberal Lady Wednesday, Dec 14, 11 @ 3:56 pm
House-Kristin Milligan is the best! Need I say more?!
Senate-Mary Alice.
Comment by Smalls Wednesday, Dec 14, 11 @ 3:58 pm
How has Bunny not won this award before? She always gets tons of votes because she is so amazingly organized, friendly, and on top of things. Add my vote for Bunny Fourez.
Comment by Horseshoe Voter Wednesday, Dec 14, 11 @ 4:03 pm
Senate - Brad Visintin in Senator Holmes’ office. He is extremely kind and knows what he is doing. He’s efficient and he gets the job done, no fuss.
House - Kristin Milligan, she’s honest and straight forward. She’ll help you when she can and tell you if she can’t.
Comment by Jo Wednesday, Dec 14, 11 @ 4:04 pm
Robin Gragg!!!!! She is the best by far of all mentioned:) You will never find a nicer or more helpful person.
Comment by Anon Wednesday, Dec 14, 11 @ 4:05 pm
Senate Robin Gragg- Very friendly always greets you wheather you are walking down the hall or into the Presidents Office.
House Kristin Milligan- Very polite and professional, and a true asset to the House.
Comment by All 102 Counties Wednesday, Dec 14, 11 @ 4:12 pm
Forgot the Senate too.
Has to be Bunny. She keeps Terry in line, and that is not easy. She will go out of here way to help you she does not mind letting you hide in her office when need be.
Comment by Give Me A Break Wednesday, Dec 14, 11 @ 4:19 pm
House: Carol from BFC’s office. A tremendous LA for a tremendous leader.
Senate: Patty Williams, Senate Dems Communication Staff. With grace and refined elegance, no one else exemplifies the moral ethos of proper administrative assistance as does Mrs. Williams. She does a tremendous job keeping things in line and is a genuine, hardworking person that everyone could learn from. The utmost professional in an environment that longs for pros. If the world had more Patty’s, it would be a much better place. Patty Williams for this year’s Golden Horseshoe Award for Senate Administrative Staff.
Comment by Philbert Knutt Wednesday, Dec 14, 11 @ 4:28 pm
House-Kristin Milligan is by far the best and puts up with Skip
Senate-Bunny
Comment by MW Wednesday, Dec 14, 11 @ 4:29 pm
Carol Shehorn in Barb Currie’s office is top notch. She is one of the warmest, sweetest people and will help anyone at any time. She plays gatekeeper for the majority leader, handles the Rules Committee, and keeps 316 fed and watered!!!
On the Senate side, I was partial to Cameron with Sen. Haine but she left the GA. I’d have to second Bunny’s nomination.
Comment by 1776 Wednesday, Dec 14, 11 @ 4:37 pm
Sally Smith. Her institutional knowledge is topflight. She juggles an insane amount of hair-pulling tasks. And like anyone who is great at what they do, makes it all appear effortless.
For the Senate, Selena Gorman as well.
Comment by archibald.jones Wednesday, Dec 14, 11 @ 4:47 pm
I vote for Kristen Milligan (even though I couldn’t pick her out of a lineup) because everyone else seems to be. I learned a long time ago that when there is a herd mentality forming in Springfield, get in on it fast.
Comment by Gary The Rabbitt Wednesday, Dec 14, 11 @ 4:54 pm
For the House I’d have to say JoAnn Sullivan with the Speaker’s office. That’s a tough office to run and she does so gracefully, professionally and with out missing a beat.
With the Senate I just can’t choose between Bunny Fourez and Robin Gragg. Bunny is a master of her trade and treats everyone who walks into her office like family. There’s no bigger heart in that Capitol building. For everyone who has ever encountered Robin knows that she is one of the funniest, most professional, kindest people you’ll cross. She makes everyone feel welcome in a really important office, and will go above and beyond to help anyone that walks through her door. Both of these ladies are beyond wonderful - not only at their jobs, but just at being amazing human beings.
Comment by Elizabeth Wednesday, Dec 14, 11 @ 5:10 pm
House - Kristin Milligan! She not only deals with Skip, but all of us who take over her office every session day. She helps everyone with everything and is basically on call (for all us) 24 hours a day. We love you Kristin!
Senate - Bunny
Comment by Jerry 2 Wednesday, Dec 14, 11 @ 5:20 pm
Kristin Milligan is far and away the best. At all times, she knows pretty much everything going on in the Capitol, yet you can trust her with your life. There is nothing she can’t do. From party organizing to helping constituents to helping track down legislators, Kristin is always willing to help. She is awesome.
Natalia Solomon is the Senate’s best. Not only does she keep up with Sen. Raoul without ever missing a beat, but she also always finds time to help me fix my hem on my dress when I’m having one of those days…then makes me laugh so hard it is no longer one of those days!
Comment by Snazzy Wednesday, Dec 14, 11 @ 5:28 pm
Sally McDaniel Smith is among the most intelligent and caring individuals you have in the capitol. She is a steal at triple the price!
Comment by Keri JO Wednesday, Dec 14, 11 @ 6:10 pm
House-Kristian Milligan (Saviano) has the ability to juggle multiple tasks and complete them ALL. Regardless of who you are, she ensures your question, concern, or favor is handled. She typically handles it, but if she can’t she puts you in touch with whoever can. Thank you Kristin!!!!
Senate- Roseann Vistin (Koehler) She truly attempts to understand your issues and keeps Senator Koehler well informed. Without question- she makes things happen.
Comment by Anonymous Wednesday, Dec 14, 11 @ 6:23 pm
I don’t think Selena would let the Speaker (or the Senate President) past her desk without an appointment.
Comment by Michelle Flaherty Wednesday, Dec 14, 11 @ 6:25 pm
For the Senate, Bunny from Senator Link’s office. She is so warm and kind, and great to staff, their families and visitors to the building.
For the House, Joanne Sullivan. Great smile, attitude and a true pro.
Comment by Get a grip Wednesday, Dec 14, 11 @ 7:50 pm
House:Kristen Milligan
Senate: Robert Toledo HANDS DOWN!
Comment by Nobody's bidness Wednesday, Dec 14, 11 @ 8:33 pm
Kristin Milligan is truly amazing at what she does. I’ve been around the GA a long time, and have yet to work with any legislative assistant that works on as high a level she does consistently.
On the Senate side, Bunny Fourez without a doubt. She’s always in the know and just the nicest person to work with on a bill. I worked on one bill with her for like two years, and she never once lost her patience with me. Bunny FTW.
Comment by The Dude in the Room Wednesday, Dec 14, 11 @ 8:52 pm
Senate: Robin Gragg is sweet, friendly, and helpful, and just generally cheers you up on a bad day.
House: Carol Shehorn is sweet, friendly and helpful, and just generally cheers you up on a bad day.
Comment by Don't Worry, Be Happy Wednesday, Dec 14, 11 @ 8:55 pm
House Sec: Would have to be Jody Aiello(Harris). Jody is not only extremely smart and kind, but she keeps both her members on track, knows that place in and out, and is always extremely helpful…and her baked treats are just amazing!
Senate: Robert Toledo should win for sure! Not only was he the first male LA in the Senate, but he does his job extremely well and always with a big smile. He’s kind, helpful, hardworking, and takes care of a very bright, busy, up and coming member(Steans)…i’m sure not an easy task. Kudos Robert!
Comment by Choosy Moms.... Thursday, Dec 15, 11 @ 11:04 am
House - Has to be Kristin (Saviano) Is always helpful when I call and is a pleasure to work with on issues in our area.
Senate - Bunny what more can you say, she’s the best.
Comment by Cook County Thursday, Dec 15, 11 @ 11:24 am