Searching for compromise
Former Cook County Circuit Judge Garippo moderates forum

by Amanda Criner
Features editor

Jared PetersonThe Daily Illini

Former Cook County Circuit Judge Louis Garippo listens to speakers Friday in Foellinger Auditorium.

Judge Louis Garippo listened to more than 60 people share their views on the Chief for six hours Friday.

The former Cook County circuit judge took an occasionally active role in the debate, asking questions and searching for compromise.

"Everyone assumes that there are just two positions, but if there is a significant third position, I'm duty bound to include it," Garippo said. "It's always talked about in one term or another."

William Roberts, who spoke in place of Faith Smith from the Native American Educational Services College, used only two minutes of the time he was allotted.

He explained the connection he saw between Native Americans with alcoholism and suicide and the Chief.

"My people used to be all up and down these parts," Roberts said. "(Chief Illiniwek) doesn't resemble nothing from them."

"I don't have anything important to say, besides that."

"You had plenty to say," Garippo said.

On Sunday, Garippo said both sides spoke well.

"I was really impressed with the quality of speakers on both sides," he said.