Title
Proclamation commending Plum Senior Community Center employee Toni Franco for her life-saving efforts on February 21, 2008.
Body
WHEREAS, the Plum Senior Community Center is blessed to have a caring, dedicated staff that enriches the quality of the programs offered at the Center; and
WHEREAS, Ms. Toni Franco has served as the Home Delivered Meal Coordinator and Nutrition Coordinator at the Plum Senior Community Center for the last 8 ½ years and recently distinguished herself as a true hero when she saved the life of a Community Center member; and
WHEREAS, on February 21, 2008, Ms. Franco, who was speaking to a colleague and County Councilman Nicholas Futules at the time, noticed a woman holding her throat and putting her head down; and
WHEREAS, Ms. Franco's concern prompted her to ask the individual if she was choking and if she could talk, to which the woman shook her head “no,” confirming that she was choking; and
WHEREAS, Ms. Franco quickly helped the woman up and performed the Heimlich Maneuver on her several times. When the woman was still unable to expel the item, Ms. Franco wisely changed her approach and began to speak calmly, which allowed the woman to relax and finally swallow the item she had been choking on; and
WHERAS, the actions taken by Ms. Franco showcased her commitment to providing the Plum area's senior citizens with a safe venue to socialize and spend time with members of their community;
NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, Allegheny County Council wishes to commend Ms. Toni Franco for the lifesaving efforts that she demonstrated on February 21, 2008 at the Plum Senior Community Center. You have proven yourself to be a true asset to the Plum community and on behalf of all of the citizens of Allegheny County, we thank you.