Teamwork, technology are cornerstones of Village

SOUTH HOLLAND TODAY
MARCH 2005 1
S O U T H
HOLLAND
TODAY
MARCH 2005
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Published by the Village of South Holland • 16226 Wausau Ave.• South Holland, IL 60473 • (708)210-2900
Teamwork, technology are cornerstones of Village
By South Holland Today staff
South Holland is a successful community, where property values continue to rise,
businesses flourish and multiply and
residents thrive. It’s a Village that has
found strength in continued diversification
and has remained at the forefront of
progress.
One of the keys to that success occurs
behind the scenes, at Village Hall and on
residential neighborhood streets. It’s teamwork and a strong sense of community
spirit which can be found just about
everywhere, from neighbors getting together to shovel an elderly resident’s
sidewalk to members of various Village
departments working together to alleviate
an emergency or to organize a community
event.
Mayor Don De Graff said maintaining
that sense of community and togetherness
continues to be one of his goals.
“Our mission in South Holland is a unity
of purpose, intended to serve each other
and in doing so seek to provide for the
highest quality of life for our residents,” he
said.
For example, every summer, residents
and officials alike get together for Heritage
Fest, a fun outing to be sure, but one which
requires the combined efforts of the
Technology key to
progress
By Marlene Cook
Through a team approach, the Village administration works efficiently and accomplishes
more. South Holland Today peeked in on a recent meeting in which the Administration
team and department heads from Police, ESDA, Parks & Rec., and Public Works worked
together on a project.
Communications Department, Parks and
Recreation, Public Works, the Police and
Fire Departments, and ESDA. The same
effort exemplified by the Village’s signature event can also be found nearly every
day, throughout South Holland.
For example, when the freeze and thaw
cycle cause a water main to break in the
middle of the night in some corner of the
Village, the Public Works crew is on the
ISS ...
M
Join Mayor De Graff,
T
T
N’ VEN
O
Sen.
Rev. James Meeks and
E
D IS
H
State
Rep. David Miller
T
as they present
‘RESHAPING SCHOOL FUNDING’
REDUCING THE TAX BURDEN OF PROPERTY OWNERS.
A FORUM ON HB 750.
Thursday, March 31, 2005, 7:00 P.M.
South Holland Community Center
501 East 170th Street
SPEAKER: Ralph Martire, Executive Director
Center for Tax and Budget Accountability
QUESTION & ANSWER FORUM
State and local officials will be in attendance. Learn what is being proposed
to provide school finance reform and property tax relief.
Sponsored by The Village of South Holland
scene working to restore service to
residents quickly. And now, through the
use of the Global Positioning System
(GPS), a device that marks the location of a
water main break or a pipe leak, the Public
Works team is sure to be more efficient in
their restoration efforts.
But also on the scene there may be ESDA
members, police officers or firefighters
(continued on page 2)
South Holland is at the forefront of new
technology, using new tools to make life
easier for residents and save taxpayers
money.
“The Village has been very successful in
integrating technology into municipal
operations,” said J. Wynsma, Village
Administrator. “With new technology, we
are working smarter and increasing our
productivity. With new and exciting
enhancements on the horizon, such as
online payment of water bills and online
permit applications, we look forward to
sharing the benefits of these forthcoming
upgrades with our residents.”
In addition to the REVERSE 9-1-1 and
GPS technology (see feature story), the
Village has implemented many other
technologies, including:
• Alpha-numeric pagers now keep everyone informed. Instant messages can be sent
to individuals, teams, groups, paramedics,
hazardous material teams, officers, and any
and all administrators from the Mayor to
employees.
(continued on page 2)
High School District 205 hopes
for successful referendum
By Cindy Cruz
Next month voters in High School
District 205 will be asked to support a tax
increase for the third time since last March,
and parents and district officials hope the
third time will be the charm.
Faced with a growing deficit, the board
of education approved $8.2
million in cuts for the 2004-05
school year which included a 20
percent reduction in staff,
significant cuts in sports and
extracurricular activities, a
freeze on technology purchases
and reductions in purchased
services and building supplies.
Since 1998, the district has cut
more than $20 million from the budget,
resulting in a shortened school day, a
reduced number of classes, a reduction in
athletics, activities and after-school programs and salary freezes.
Thornwood senior Derrick TillmanKelly believes it is important to support the
referendum because it will ensure that
students receive a well-rounded education
that involves more than just academics. “I
have friends who will be at Thornwood
next year and I would hate to see them go
through a new round of cuts,” he said.
Tillman-Kelly personally felt the effect of
the cuts this year because of fewer
academic choices and the elimination of AP classes which he
said has hindered his ability to
compete for college scholarships.
The district is currently operating with a $4.5 million deficit,
according to Ken Parchem,
director of business operations.
Voters are being asked to
approve a 70 cents increase per $100 of
assessed valuation to bring the education
fund tax rate from $2.70 to $3.40. Passage
would result in a $145 yearly increase for
the owner of a home with a market value of
$100,000. Since the last rate increase in
1992 the district has lost more than $25
million in revenue due to a loss in industry,
(continued on page 3)
2
MARCH 2005
SOUTH HOLLAND TODAY
Boy honored as local hero
By Cindy Cruz
At the recent Volunteer Appreciation Dinner, Mayor Don De Graff praised the team spirit
and dedication of 275 volunteers who serve on various boards, commissions and
committees. Pictured with Mayor De Graff are the chairpersons of these working groups.
Teamwork
(continued from front page)
ensuring safety for workers and residents.
If warranted, the Communications Department gets involved to alert the
community about any possible interruptions to the water supply by way of the
Public Access system which post notifications on cable stations. And now with the
implementation of REVERSE 9-1-1, an
interactive communication system, the
Village can alert residents of emergency
situations, such as severe weather, evacuations and hazardous materials.
It’s a matter of pulling together in the
face of adversity, and that spirit is a
historical tradition throughout the entire
Village and its administration, be it a large
snowfall, a traffic accident, or as in days
gone by when Thorn Creek overflowed its
banks and threatened area businesses and
Mayor Don De Graff and volunteers roll
up their sleeves and work together for the
Village’s annual “Take A Bite Out Of
Grime” initiative. This year’s T.B.O.G.
will be May 14.
homes. Along with flood-threatened residents, one would likely find Village
officials and workers laboring side by side
to fill sandbags in an effort to save a home
from damage.
That sense of teamwork goes all the way
to the top, where the Village Board, rather
than fighting itself to gridlock, works
together to the benefit of all residents.
“In an arena normally characterized by
individuals being territorial or trying to
build kingdoms, South Holland is the exact
opposite,” said Trustee Arthur L. Bennett.
“Here we have an atmosphere of cohesiveness, unity and mutual respect.”
“What I have observed is that respect is
shared by nearly everyone associated with
the Village, from volunteers to department
heads to the administration and the Village
Board,” shared Mary Ann Thornton,
Director of Communications. “The spirit of
cooperation exists due to the highest regard
held for one another in the capacity in
which we serve the people of South
Holland,” she continued.
And even the unpaid workers, those that
care enough about the Village to share their
time to help, are teammates in that regard.
In fact, 275 volunteers who serve on
various boards, committees and commissions were recognized at the recent
Volunteer Appreciation Dinner hosted by
the Village
Trustee Frank Knittle said the positive
spirit that is so evident now in South
Holland is bound to grow. “We have such
positive momentum as a Village Board and
administration,” he said. ”That’s why we
work so well together and are able to get
things done.” ■
(continued from front page)
• Digital
cameras in police cars can
transmit details of any traffic stop to station
computers. Each time the squad lights are
turned on, the activity is recorded and can
be seen in real time or researched later.
Village Board at a Feb. 22 meeting,
receiving a 9-1-1 Local Hero award. He
also received an American Hero Beanie
Baby from the Fire Department, which he
proudly displays on his dresser.
“When I read him the letter from the
Village commending his action, he just
smiled. I just thank God Jarrett was there to
help,” Elmore said. ■
By Cindy Cruz
When you place requests in a
suggestion box you may often wonder if
anyone is listening. Well, the staff at the
South Holland Fitness Center is. The
center recently acquired new state-ofthe-art weight training equipment.
Fitness Center Manager John Keenan
said the equipment purchased was
requested by members and includes a
Roman chair, bicep curl machine, hip
adduction/abduction machine, bent knee
sit-up bench and power strength balls.
New equipment at the fitness center is
receiving rave reviews from members.
Courtney Housman enjoys using the Hip
Adduction/Abduction Machine.
The purchase was funded through the
Community Center’s Tree of Life
Endowment Fund. The fund, established
to support the Community Center, has
received donations, including a $250,000
commitment from MB Financial Bank,
according to Trustee Art Bennett.
Keenan said the response to the
equipment has been very positive. He
stressed the importance of members
continuing to make suggestions so the
center can meet their needs. ■
• Every
• The
• A sophisticated computer system main-
Five-year-old Jarrett Elmore, accompanied
by his parents, was presented the Local 9-1-1
Hero Award by Village Board President Don
A. De Graff (r) and Deputy Chief of Police
Robert Stegenga (l).
Fitness Center acquires new equipment
maintenance. It can remotely increase the
pressure when the demand is greater, such
as during a fire. In the past, a water operator
would be called out to manually adjust the
pumps. This method saves time and money.
Technology
Fire Department is now using
thermo imaging cameras. "With them we
can find victims, possibly a child that is
hiding in a closet or under a bed even
though the house may be filled with
smoke,” Fire Chief Jim Wiley said. “We
can see hidden fires behind walls to prevent
smoldering fires from re-igniting after
we've gone."
When we think of local heroes we don’t
usually envision children, but that is
exactly the distinction bestowed upon fiveyear-old Jarrett Elmore. In mid-December,
Jarrett immediately came to the aid of his
critically ill grandfather who had fallen out
of bed. Dialing 9-1-1 and giving details of
what happened and his location, paramedics arrived in minutes to stabilize his
grandfather.
Jarrett’s father, Otis Elmore, is very
proud of his son but not surprised by his
actions.
“My wife and I are sheriffs and my
father-in-law was a retired Chicago police
officer so we were adamant about teaching
Jarrett how to help himself and others. We
often did practice drills with him so he
would know what to do in an emergency,”
Elmore said.
Jarrett’s grandfather who had been
receiving hospice care at the Elmore home
has since passed away but his grandson’s
actions gave the family a few more weeks
with him.
Jarrett was honored as a local hero by the
With new automated control systems, Dan
Jansma remotely maintains and gathers
data on water tank levels and pump speeds
throughout the Village.
tains and gathers data on water tank levels
and pump speeds, allowing for better
house and business is equipped
with a computerized water meter that
transmits the usage to a specially equipped
van as it is driven down the street.
Collecting water meter readings can now be
completed in hours instead of weeks.
Furthermore, the computerized system
eliminates the need for someone to enter
homes and businesses to read the meters.
• Remote
technology allows Parks and
Recreation officials to operate mechanical
systems (heating, air conditioning and pool
pump) with a laptop computer from
anywhere in the country.■
Bob Roche works out with the bicep curl
machine.
SOUTH HOLLAND TODAY
MARCH 2005 3
included an intergenerational, interracial
potluck dinner on Christian Unity Sunday
and the S.H. Ministerial Association’s
Community-Wide Church Picnic. Blaauw
was also commended for demonstrating a
passion for interdenominational,
intergenerational and interracial community development.
“I am grateful to serve in a Village where
not only the mayor, but many leaders
govern and lead us with Christian
integrity,” he said.
Pictured with Mayor Don De Graff (second from left) at the Village’s Volunteer
Appreciation Dinner are the 2005 Mayor’s Award recipients: Rev. Heino Blaauw, Cindy
Miston and Maurice Roberts.
Village honors Mayor’s Award recipients
By Cindy Cruz
Conveying a message of gratitude to
those who unselfishly give their time and
talent, the Village last month recognized
three outstanding residents at its Volunteer
Appreciation Dinner. During his welcome,
Mayor Don De Graff commended the 20
boards, committees and commissions and
the 275 participants who volunteer their
time to serve on them.
Mike Nylen, chairman of the Communications Commission, said the awards given
for leadership in the areas of faith, family
and future celebrate service. “While virtue
Referendum
(continued from front page)
tax caps and a change in the state aid
formula. Public schools are currently
funded primarily by property taxes. On an
average South Holland tax bill, approximately 68 percent goes towards school
funding, of which 38 percent is allocated to
District 205. Illinois ranks 48 out of 50
states in education funding. This means that
in the United States, Illinois ranks second to
last in the level of funding it provides to
public schools.
‘While we clearly respect
those taxpayers who
because of conviction will
vote no, we hope that
group is the minority...’
John Bradley
Parchem said if the referendum fails the
district would have to reduce the budget by
$3.5 million in 2006-07 to maintain a
manageable deficit in the $4 million range.
Recommendations for cuts would be made
by the district’s Strategic Planning Committee for Finance. If the referendum
passes the district would place priority on
the restoration of academic programs with
consideration given to extracurricular
activities. The rate increase would generate
$7.5 million. John Arrington, director of
human resources and community relations,
said the district operates in a fiscally
responsible manner “always looking for
may be its own reward, we think it is
important to recognize virtue publicly,” he
said.
Heino Blaauw
Rev. Heino Blaauw, pastor of First
Reformed Church, received the Mayor’s
Award for Faith Leadership. Recognized
for his support in coordinating the Village’s
One Book/One Body community-wide
Bible reading campaign, which involved
1,500 people, he also designed and led
events that would bring people from
different backgrounds together. These
ways to tighten our belt” and will continue
to do so if the referendum is approved.
In addition to the increase, the district is
involved in a statewide effort in support of
House Bill 750 which would make
significant changes to Illinois’ tax system
and generate approximately $7 billion per
year in additional state revenue to be used
for additional school funding, closing the
state’s “structural deficit,” providing tax
credits for low income individuals and
property tax relief.
Parchem said the ideal scenario would be
the passage of both the referendum and
House Bill 750 because it would ensure that
the district would operate without a deficit.
Failure of the referendum and the defeat of
House Bill 750 would place the district in
dire financial straits.
John Bradley, a member of Citizens for
District 205, said the increase would
eliminate the deficit, maintain a quality
educational program and stabilize property
values throughout the area.
“While we clearly respect those taxpayers who because of conviction will vote no,
we hope that group is the minority, not the
majority. Our goal is to increase the yes
vote, not fight the no vote,” Bradley said.■
HOUSE BILL 750
Those wanting to learn more
about House Bill 750 are invited
to attend the next meeting of the
South Holland Central Committee
to be held on March 31 at 7 p.m. at
the Community Center.
Cindy Miston
Described as a giver who asks nothing in
return, Cindy Miston was given the
Mayor’s Award for Family Leadership.
Miston is a fifth grade teacher at Calvary
Academy, one of the founding members of
the Neighborhood Groups Organizing
Committee and a member of the Village’s
Central Committee. Active in her church,
Miston organizes and conducts small group
‘My dad taught me to
invest in the things that
are important to me...
It is an honor to invest
in people’s lives.’
Cindy Miston
Bible study and counsels and mentors
young girls. She also helps with “Angel
Tree” that assists male inmates in providing
Christmas gifts to their children. In
addition, Miston takes part in Restoration
Ministries’ “Bread of Life” program which
provides food to the residents of Tabitha
House and Harvey House.
“My dad taught me to invest in the things
that are important to me,” she said. “It is an
honor to invest in people’s lives.”
Maurice Roberts
South Holland Police Officer Maurice
Roberts received the Mayor’s Award for
Future Leadership. Roberts, a school
resource officer, was lauded for developing
a comprehensive educational program after
the Village learned the Illinois State Police
would no longer support the DARE antidrug education program. Roberts developed BEWARE (Being Educated With
Awareness, Responsibility and Enthusiasm) to educate youth about their role in
maintaining a healthy drug-free life. He
also volunteers his time to work with the
Seton High School Boys Basketball Team.
Roberts thanked the Village for the
opportunity to work with the schools. “I let
the kids know that there is hope and that
there are people who care about them. That
open relationship will keep us going
towards the future,” he said.
Mayor De Graff extended his thanks to
all the volunteers on behalf of the board and
administration.
“South Holland is indeed a community
that exemplifies a heritage of faith, a
community that places extreme emphasis
on family values and a community that
values honesty, integrity and morality. I ask
you to continue this endeavor as we march
forward together,” he said. ■
RESIDENT YOU SHOULD KNOW
Robert Fletcher
Using the past to
brighten the future
By Deidra Somerville
Growing up in Chicago’s Ida B. Wells
public housing complex, Robert Fletcher had
an advantage over many of his peers: a father
who wanted to make sure his son would some
day go to college.
“My father said to me, ‘Son, one day you
are going to have to support a family.
Therefore, you are going to need all the
education you can get,’” Fletcher said. “Dad,
he was my hero.”
A resident of South Holland since 1989,
Fletcher is now an educator who is passing
along life lessons of his own as a counselor at
Monroe Elementary School. And the lessons
he offers are appreciated by students and
parents alike. They recently voted him one of
12 educators who made a difference and had
a positive impact on children. He was
featured in a school year calendar titled
“School Heroes Making a Difference.”
“I’ve always been a people person,” he
said.
After graduating from college, he became
a social group director at Chicago’s
Abraham Lincoln Center and formed a girl’s
basketball team. He also started a club, the
Imperial Play Boys, where he provided a safe
haven for boys. Some of those young men are
still in touch with him today.
“I thought at the time that if I could save at
least one of these boys, then I was doing
well,” he said.
Fletcher returned to education in 1993 at
the suggestion of his wife, Dorothy, herself a
veteran educator now retired.
“Education is the key to success,” he said.
“You can show the students things that
you’ve been through, even though they may
not be from the same culture. Education
crosses cultural lines.”
On the bulletin board of his office he
displays a “value trait of the month,”
featuring people who express a particular
virtue. In February, George Washington and
Abraham Lincoln were featured for truthfulness and honesty.
He also chaperones 8th graders to
Washington, DC and 7th graders to
Springfield, to expose them to ideas that will
stay with them for a lifetime, all the while
reinforcing the values of character education.
Fletcher treasures the ability to make an
imprint on his students.
“Some of them come from single-parent
homes or working families that really don’t
have the time to instill these values in their
children,” he said. “These lessons play a
major part in the lives of children as they
grow up and mix in society. It means a lot.”
Looking forward to retirement, Fletcher’s
plans are to become a public servant of South
Holland.
“I like the values that South Holland stands
for,” he said. “It has good educational
facilities and the community principles that I
believe in.” ■
4
MARCH 2005
SOUTH HOLLAND TODAY
SOUTH HOLLAND
SALUTES
By Marlene Cook
Congratulations to Elliot Lee who was
recently recognized by UPS for working 13
years without an accident. He’s based at the
UPS Hub in Hodgkins.
Fhalyn S. Gilbert, daughter of Patricia
Carson, is a business marketing major at
Northern Illinois University and has been
nominated to participate in the 2005
International Mission on Business to be held
in China in May. She has been named to the
National Dean’s List and is included in Who’s
Who Among College Students.
Torquesia Smith, daughter of Sheneiqua
and Harold Fuller, will participate in the
People to People Student
Ambassador Program in
Australia this summer. She
will build leadership skills
through meetings with government officials and interaction with other students.
Smith
Upon her return, she plans
to share her experiences with local schools
and organizations.
Kyle Smith, son of Eric and Miriam Smith,
recently participated in the National Young
Leaders Conference in Washington DC. A
12th grade student at the University of
Chicago Laboratory School, Kyle spent six
days interacting with a variety of people in
government and the media.
Keenan Nelson Klein-Winters, a sophomore at Morehouse College, was named one
of seven winners of the Cirilo A. McSween
New York Life Rainbow-PUSH Excel award.
Mischa L. Crosby, Terrance M. Ross and
Jill Ann Stamborski received bachelor’s
degrees recently from Southern Illinois
University at Carbondale.
Tracy Barnes, daughter of John & Cheryl
Pollard, graduated with honors from the
University of Illinois and has accepted a
teaching position at Northwestern Memorial
Hospital.
Gretchen Widmer, daughter of Wayne and Mary
Widmer and granddaughter of
John and Gert Widmer, ranked
first in her class at the College
of Law at University of
Widmer
Illinois, Urbana.
John Dunlop, baseball coach at Thornwood
High School, was named to the Illinois
Baseball Coaches Association Hall of Fame.
Delphine and Barney Zielinski were
among 12 senior citizens honored by the
South Suburban Council on Aging for their
volunteer services. They were nominated by
the Thornton Township Senior Center.
India Ladon Washington received a
bachelor’s degree from Northern Illinois
University.
Air Force Airman Amanda Taylor is
stationed at Minot Air Force Base, ND as a
personnel apprentice assigned to the 741st
Missile Squadron.
Navy Fireman Aaron D. Johnson, son of
Aaron Johnson, embarked with the USS
Essex Expeditionary Strike Group deployed
to Japan, is assigned to the USS Harpers
Ferry. He is a 2001 grad of Thornwood High
School. ■
Students create museum
Greenwood School created its own AfricanAmerican Museum in observance of Black
History Month. The museum featured a wide
array of items loaned to the school by staff
and parents. Stacey Magee and Renay Orr,
who coordinated the project, explain some of
the items to first grade students.
Fourth grade students at Calvin Christian School recently studied how to begin and run a
business by holding their own doughnut sale.
CALVIN CHRISTIAN STUDENTS
RUN A BUSINESS
C.O.S. hosts open house
Christ Our Savior hosted an Open House
during Catholic Schools Week. Parents of
students and prospective students had the
opportunity to tour the school and talk with
teachers.
Mrs. Boerman-Cornell and Mrs. Breem’s
4th grade class recently studied how to
begin and run a business. After a class vote,
“Gallons of Glaze” was born, in our terms,
a Krispy Kreme doughnut sale. Each
student was given a task to perform in the
promotion of the sale, including designing
t-shirts, managing, counting the profit, etc.
The class profit was $147 and they decided
to send half to the tsunami victims and will
use the other half for a special field trip.
The school also held “A Soul Food
Extravaganza” on Thursday, Feb. 24 in
observance of Black History Month. The
event featured games, music, dance and a
special lunch.
MCKINLEY BANDS PERFORM
South Holland Today
presents
‘STUDENT OF THE MONTH’
By Cindy Cruz
DANA HILL
8TH GRADE, CHRIST OUR SAVIOR
Parents: Tiann and Dennis Hill
How long have you been a resident of
South Holland? 13 years.
Activities involved in at school: “I am
currently on the girls basketball team
and serve as a lunch monitor for
kindergarten.”
Activities involved in outside of school:
“I participate in karate, kickboxing and
serve as a teen helper at a Bible camp.”
Favorite Subject: “My favorite subject
in school is social studies because I
enjoy learning about history.”
Insight into school: “I really like Christ
Our Savior. The consolidation of the
schools was a big step up. It really
wasn’t a big adjustment for me because
I had attended St. Jude.” ■
Several performances of the McKinley
Bands are scheduled during March. The
McKinley Jr. High Jazz Band will
participate in the South Suburban College
Jazz Festival on March 10 (tentative). The
Symphonic Band will participate in the
District Band Contest at Central Middle
School in Tinley Park on March 12. The
Concert Band will perform at the Band
Parent Association General Meeting at
7:30 p.m. on March 15. The Jazz Band will
perform at the 1st School District Poetry
Competition at Thornridge High School on
March 22, which is sponsored by State
Representative David Miller.
THORNWOOD STAFF
RECEIVE RECOGNITION
Thornwood High School faculty members received Disney Hand Teacher awards
and three educators received recognition as
Educators of Distinction from the National
Society of High School Scholars. Albert
Butler, Gary Lester and Shelly Lester
received Educator of Distinction recognition. Disney Hand award recipients are:
Brian Evans, Jennifer Galloy, Suzanne
Garcia, Candice Justice, Susan Kotora,
Donna Kyner, L.G. Kyner, Shelly Lester,
Karen Haupert, Charles Siegel, Christina
Lyttle, Kathy Metro, Shelly Peretz,
Marilyn Ragland, Jerry Styrsky, Steve
Traylor, Greg Tuftie, Jeanette Rogers and
Daryle Ann Gasparovich.
MCKINLEY TO HOLD READ IT
AND SLEEP
Fourth and fifth grade students at
McKinley Elementary School will participate in Read It and Sleep on March 18.
Students spend the night at the school
enjoying pizza, reading and participating in
various events designed to promote
reading. Each classroom will have a theme
with costumed volunteers directing activities. The event is sponsored by the P&TA.
GREENWOOD’S SCIENCE FAIR SOARS
Greenwood Elementary School recently
hosted the 2nd Annual Science Fair. More
than 250 parents and students had an
opportunity to view the students’ projects
and meet the future scientists. More than
115 second grade students completed
projects. Some of the unique projects were:
Which Juice Has More Acid; The Breath of
Life: How Do Our Lungs Breathe?; How
Does a Tsunami Happen; and How the Sun
Affects the Earth.
Greenwood Science Fair winners pose for a photo.
(continued on following page)
SOUTH HOLLAND TODAY
MARCH 2005 5
Ministerial Association honors Mayor
‘One Book / One Body’ Bible reading
campaign, Mayor De Graff’s support
and participation in that program was a
tremendous encouragement to me.”
Mayor Don De Graff receives honor.
Wonderfully Designed
Students from Madison School in District 151 recently attended the Black History Program
at the First Reformed Church. The program, Wonderfully Designed, featured an exhibit
and presentations by the Organization of Black Designers. Above left: Vernon Lockhart,
artist/designer and chairman of the group’s Chicago Chapter, helps a student create a
picture of herself. Above right: after having their image traced students completed the
project by painting their picture.
(continued from page 4)
TEENPACT VISITS
SOUTH HOLLAND C.H.E.S.S.
South Holland CHESS (Christian Home
Educators of the South Suburbs) welcomed
TeenPact to their January meeting. TeenPact
is a national organization that holds classes
in more than 30 state capitols to teach
leadership skills, citizenship, and a Biblical
view of government. TeenPact alumni from
South Holland CHESS are Rachel, Roselyn,
and Justin Dekker, and Mark and Kent
Uittenbogaard. They joined Mrs. S.
Farmer, Illinois State Coordinator, and
other alumni to present a program about
TeenPact. The presentations included a
mock legislature session using correct
parliamentary procedure and a skit regarding the various kinds of lobbyists.
Students who attend TeenPact spend
their week in the State Capitol Building
attending classes, participating in field
experiences, meeting state officials, and
learning about government in a “hands-on”
educational environment. A one-day program is available for younger students.
TeenPact encourages students to return
home to become active citizens within their
community.
SSC OFFERS COLLEGE FOR KIDS
South Suburban College’s Continuing
Education department is offering courses to
help fill springtime with activities that will
entertain and challenge both children and
young adults. The College for Kids
program provides a fun learning environment for kids of all ages. Many classes
begin in early March. The College for Kids
program offers the opportunity for children
to improve their academics through a widerange of enrichment programs in English,
computers, arts, workshops and much
more. An assortment of classes are also
offered just for fun. For more information
or to register contact the Continuing
Education Office at 596-2000, ext. 2231.■
Flood-proofing pays off for residents
With springtime rains just around the
corner, Fred Block, Flood Assistance
Coordinator, reminds residents that a
Flood Assistance Rebate program is
available to qualified applicants for preapproved flood-proofing projects.
For example, residents planning to
install overhead sewers in their homes to
alleviate flooding problems may be
eligible for a grant to cover a portion of
the project costs.
According to Block, the grant offers
residents a 25 percent rebate, to a
maximum of $2,500, for the following
flood-control projects:
SURFACE WATER PROJECTS
‰ Diversion of downspout water
‰ Flood walls
SEWER BACKUP PROJECTS
‰ Overhead sewers (repairs and installation)
‰ Removal of sump pump and down
spout connections from sanitary
sewers
‰ Back flow valves
SUBSURFACE PROJECTS
‰ Interior and/or exterior drain tile
‰ Crack repair and/or waterproofing
foundation walls
It is imperative that those planning to
apply for a grant contact Fred Block at
16240 Wausau, or call 210-2915, before
beginning any flood-control project.
“I will meet with the resident, inspect
their property and assist in completion of
the necessary grant application,” he said,
“I also can provide a list of contractors
who are licensed to do business in South
Holland, if requested.”
Block advises homeowners not to wait
until the last minute, but to allow plenty of
time to secure the required pre-approval
and minimum of two bid proposals from
contractors.
“I think that it’s a great program and I
think that a lot of people have been really
thankful that the Village has had this
program,” he said. „
The South Holland Ministerial Association presented a plaque to Mayor
Don De Graff last month in honor of his
Christian leadership, support and
service to the residents and churches of
South Holland.
Commenting on the honor were:
Willard High, SHMA President,
Pastor, Worldwide Church of God:
“The South Holland Ministerial
Association
wanted to express appreciation to Don De Graff
for his self-sacrificing
Rev. High
service to the residents
and churches of the Village. We felt
moved to recognize him for this quality
since Jesus linked greatness to our
service of others.”
Rev. Heino Blaauw,
First Reformed Church
of South Holland: “As a
South Holland Ministerial leader in 2004’s
Rev. Alfonzo Surrett,
Calvary
Reformed
Church: “Not many villages are blessed to have
a Mayor as sensitive to
the needs of all citizens. Rev. Surrett
Mayor De Graff is committed to serve
our community and the kingdom of
God.”
Dr. John Sullivan, Spirit of God
Fellowship: “I am honored to be part of this
group of ministers as we
recognize and honor our
Dr.Sullivan
Mayor Don De Graff.”
Rev. Georgina Ayala, Pastor, Life
Builders International: “I
have found Mayor Don
De Graff to be a man of
integrity as well as a
visionary that includes
all cultures and ethnic Rev. Ayala
backgrounds.”
Rev. Dr. Carl E. King, Sr., Pastor,
Christ
Community
Church: “The Village of
South Holland is fortunate to have a leader like
Don De Graff. His leadDr. King
ership is a holy trust we
can all depend on.”■
Rev.Blaauw
ABSENTEE VOTING
Absentee voting is a convenient way of casting a ballot if you’re unable to make it
to your polling place on Election Day. In most cases, voters choose to vote absentee
when they will be out of town on Election Day or are physically disabled. You can
vote absentee by mail or you may cast ballots in person at the Village Hall.
To vote absentee you must:
➢ Be a registered voter
➢ Be eligible to vote absentee
➢ Submit a completed absentee ballot application
Please note: If you are a first-time voter, you CANNOT vote absentee by mail if you
registered to vote by mail (the only exception is for overseas and military voters).
Applications are available at Village Hall or you can download an application at
www.voterinfonet.com.
The applications must be at the County Clerk’s office by March 31, 2005.
IMPORTANT DATES TO REMEMBER:
March 8, 2005 ...................................... Last day to register to vote
March 14, 2005 .... In-person absentee voting begins at Village Hall
March 31, 2005 .... Last day for County Clerk’s office to receive an
application for absentee ballots
April 4, 2005 ............................... In-person absentee voting ends
APRIL 5, 2005 ................................................... ELECTION DAY
Poll hours 6:00AM-7:00PM
Hours for Village Clerk’s Office: 8AM - 5PM, Monday - Friday;
8AM – Noon, Saturday.
For more information contact the Village Clerk’s Office at 210-2910.
6
MARCH 2005
SOUTH HOLLAND TODAY
EDITORIAL PAGE
WISDOM
& ENCOURAGEMENT
FROM OUR CHURCHES
By Pat Mahon
Happiness is a goal that
can be shared
I have decided that today is going to be the
first day of the rest of my life; a day that feels
good because I’m determined to find balance
by making time to do things that are good for
my health, my family and me.
I came to that decision after some great and enlightening discussions with
various people. Among other things, these discussions made me realize
people are essentially self-preservationist. Most people tend to put their own
needs, wants and ambitions before all others. I suppose that’s not such a bad
thing, except when that's all there is to a person.
Sometimes it’s surprising to me to hear the more practical side of human
nature. I understand that power and money are strong motivating factors for
some and that many people are driven by selfish desires. I also understand
that not everyone bestows acts of kindness for altruistic reasons. However, it
may sound naïve, but I like thinking people will do for others because it’s the
right thing to do. I like thinking that people perhaps consider others before
themselves. I like promoting harmony and harmonious relationships.
Moreover, I like giving of myself to others.
What I don’t like is when people take advantage of generosity and hard
work for their own selfish gain. I don’t like it when one expects things instead
of appreciating what’s already given. I don’t like it when human nature rears
its ugly head, and the more a person does, the more they’ll be asked to do.
And I don’t like when kindness is mistaken for weakness.
The South Holland Ministerial Association, in
support of South Holland’s Village theme of
“Faith...Family...Future” endorses this monthly
column.The viewpoints expressed herein are
those of the writer and do not constitute official
endorsement by South Holland Today or the
South Holland Village administration.
Reach out of the box to
change the world
A phrase in our vernacular these days is
“out of the box.” The implication is that we
cannot continue to do the things we do the
same way over and over. Life is changing
too quickly and we must continually be
searching for new ways of approaching life.
One example of ministering “out of the
box” was exhibited by Jesus when he began
His public ministry and focused on the
needy of that day – the sick, the prostitutes,
the tax collector, etc. He went to those in
need, the sick who needed a physician
rather than the religious pharisees of that
day.
I believe He established a principle by
which we are expected to live our lives. We
are to be prepared and willing to go to
Ask . . .
In some ways, I envy those who are selfish because they will usually get
what they want, whether it’s from me or someone else like me. It probably
makes for less stress in their lives because after all, they have no one else to
think about but themselves.
For me, though, it’s difficult to not help others, and it’s unsettling to realize
that I cannot do for everyone all the time. The downside is that people get
used to you always doing and always being there – even if it’s not what is best
for you. However, I’m quickly getting over the feeling of not being able to
do it all for everyone. Those who truly know me know where my heart is and
will understand.
I realize I am not the first, nor the last to face life’s challenges, but maybe
I can learn from those who have come before me and those who have
managed to find simplicity in their lives. What I know for sure is that I take
my role in life and in the community seriously. But my happiness is not the
means to an end, it is the end, which lies in a balanced lifestyle with good
health and a great family.
South Holland Today!
By Marlene Cook
Q What are those slim, small lights on
top of police cruisers? I think they are
LEDs. What are the benefits and will
they be added to all police cars?
A
You are right, the new light bars are
LEDs. The new technology makes the
lights much easier to see from greater
distances and they last longer. They also
take less “juice” from the car’s electrical
system that is shared with the new
computers in the cars, thus reducing auto
maintenance. The department plans to put
them on all cars as funds allow.
Q We have an alarm system on our
THE PEOPLE SAY:
Proud to be a resident
Mayor De Graff has given me a reason to
continue to feel proud that I reside in South
Holland. He has shown that the word
"team" works: Together, Everyone Accomplishes More.
I am continuing to learn through Art
Bennett and others that a good follow
through is just as important in management
as it is in bowling, tennis and golf. Follow
through is the bridge between good
planning and good results.
I have learned after my retirement most
people stay motivated for two or three
months. A few more can stay motivated for
two or three years, but a winner can stay
motivated for as long as it takes to win.
– Eddie Harris
where the need is greatest. The day of being
a spectator is over.
Who will go to our cities? Who will go to
the addict, the alcoholic, the prostitute,
those incarcerated, the crack babies, the atrisk kids, the gang bangers, the elderly shutins, and the struggling young moms?
In the sixth chapter of Isaiah, The voice
of the Lord said, ‘Whom shall I send? And
who will go for us?” and Isaiah said, “Here
am I. Send me!”
Today, the voice of the Lord continues to
call each of us. It’s not just the pastor, an
elder or the staff, but each of us. So, let’s
open our eyes to see what the needs around
us are. See the kingdom of God in our
midst.
One person’s definition of insanity is
doing the same thing over and over and
expecting different results. For too many
of us, we are the box!
South Holland, the greatest Village in the
world, is very fortunate to have you!
Imagine the unimaginable for yourself.
Take responsibility. Be involved. Together we can make our Village a light to
the world.
– Dr. John F. Sullivan
Spirit of God Fellowship
house. When the alarm sounded, someone called the police and they came out to
investigate and then we received a bill.
Why is that?
A
Village ordinance states that
homeowners and business owners may not
install, operate or maintain an alarm system
in the Village without obtaining a permit.
False alarms or malfunctions on more than
three occasions in any calendar year are
charged to the owner. The fine is $100 for
each of the next two false alarms and $150
for each false alarm thereafter. Precise
information can be obtained on the Village
website, www.southholland.org. Click on
“government” and on the drop-down
“other” and then “Village code of
ordinance.” Then select “licenses and
business regulations.” ■
S O U T H
HOLLAND
TO DAY
Managing Editor Patricia R. Mahon
Editor Mary Ann Thornton
Assistant Editor Paul Eisenberg
Production Manager Phyllis Pallay
Photographer Doris Morrissette
Correspondents
Marlene Cook, Cindy Cruz
Deidra Somerville
Printed at Park Press
SOUTH HOLLAND TODAY is published
ten times each year by the Communications
Department of the Village of South Holland
and distributed by bulk mailing to all postal
customers in South Holland Zip Code 60473.
Additional copies are available free of charge
at the Communications Department located
at the municipal complex at 16226 Wausau
Ave. South Holland Today does not accept
paid advertising.
SOUTH HOLLAND TODAY aims to
provide beneficial information to present and
potential residents, businesses, and municipal
employees so that community pride is
enhanced, investment and reinvestment in the
community are encouraged, participation in
community events is stimulated, and public
dialogue about issues affecting community
life takes place.
SOUTH HOLLAND TODAY
MARCH 2005 7
Economic
Development
‘Between Five and Seven’
A new talk show, “Between Five and Seven” will feature four pastors
from the South Holland Ministerial Association and will be moderated by
Communications Commission Chairman Mike Nylen. The program is currently available on
Public Access television this month. The first edition focuses on
last November’s election and features religious leaders (from left) John Sullivan,
Alfonzo Surrett, Nylen, Carl King and Heino Blaauw. A new show will be
aired every month.
Grand opening
Ezekiel’s Restoration owner Lyndon Jackson restores the beauty of two aged chairs.
Business makes old look new again
By Marlene Cook
To Lyndon Jackson, owner of Ezekiel’s
Restoration, restoring antiques is more than
just maintenence, it’s an artform in itself.
He learned the trade from his father,
Ezekial, whom the business is named after.
"People sometimes call me Zeke, but
Ezekiel is my Dad. I'm Lyndon," he said.
He restores furniture to its original
significance and, in the process, finds out
not only the stories told by its owners, but
the history of the piece itself.
"I love the stories. Especially those about
a piece handed down through generations,”
he said. “I can tell how old a piece is by its
smell. Wood over 100 years old smells
different. I don't know how I learned that,
my dad can't do it, but I can. You can also
tell the age by the way it's made and the kind
of wood."
The elder Jackson began restoring
furniture when he was only 17 years old.
He's now 80 years old. Lyndon began
working with his dad as a small child in
Jamaica where Ezekiel now spends the
winters and still runs his original business.
"My dad had me sanding and buffing
after school when I'd rather be playing
soccer. He'd say, ‘when you finish this
piece, you can go play soccer.’ But, by the
time I finished, it was time for bed. So, I
really didn't like the job much."
Lyndon left Jamaica to attend New York
University where he became a junior
draftsmen. He took a job with an architect
but when he was laid off, he took a job with
Anatoli Restoration in New York.
Lyndon said, "I told them I'd only stay for
three months but I stayed six years. I
learned that I really loved seeing old things
come alive again, and I was good at it. I
didn't know it was such a big deal then, but
we did work for celebrities that included
Larry Hagman, Angela Lansbury and
Michael Douglas. I restored a school desk
that was James Cagney's in third grade. I
also did Al Capone's wheelchair."
Lyndon met his wife, Carla, while she
was vacationing in Jamaica. From Chicago,
she and Lyndon kept in touch and when he
went to New York, she went to see him
again. They married soon after. When she
wanted to come back to Chicago, Lyndon
took a job at Atlas Furniture. Soon after he
and his dad opened their own shop.
Now Lyndon's daughter Marley, 10, can
be found sanding and buffing beside her
Dad, just as he did before. Her younger
sister Kennedi, 5, also seems to be taking an
interest in the business and asks a lot of
questions. Lyndon's brother Orville operates a similar business in London.
One of the jobs in which Lyndon takes
great pride is a lobby on Lake Shore Drive
in Chicago.
"The entire lobby had a 1920s wood
look. It had to be totally stripped and
redone,” he said. “At first I didn't think I
could do it. It was a big job and 40 feet high.
I accepted the job and then looked up and
said, ‘Hey God, how am I going to do this?'
But I began to work in faith and I did it,
mostly in the dark when they took the
chandelier down. I couldn't believe it when
I came back after it was all done. I did this?
Wow!"
Lyndon illustrates his craft with an old
painted door. He refinished the top and left
the bottom as it was. The top is beautifully
grained and has a piano finish.
"I really have no competition for what I
do," he said. "This work takes time. All
depends on the wood, the finishes, what the
customer is looking for, etc. But if it's
wood, I can make it like new, no matter
what condition it's in when it comes to
me." ■
Mayor Don De Graff assisted owners of Avalar Real Estate & Mortgage
Network in celebrating the company’s grand opening in February. Also on
hand were Village trustees, members of the administration and members
of the South Holland Business Association.
REVERSE 9-1-1 IN ACTION
Open House and Brunch
Experience the Reverse 9-1-1 system firsthand
and learn how it can benefit you!
An open house and brunch showcasing the new system
takes place from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. March 19 at the South
Holland Community Center, 501 E. 170th St.
Interactive demonstrations will be available.
RSVP via email at [email protected].
8
MARCH 2005
Celebrate St. Pat’s
at the Library
➤ Looking for some fun, traveling and
music for St. Patrick’s
Day? The South Holland
Library may have just what
you’re searching for. Come
and hear the Dyed in the
Wool Band Monday,
March 7 at 7 p.m. The
band mixes the wonderful sounds of
American folk and Celtic music. Registration is required for this program.
➤ Join Michelle Paluch-Mishur who will
discuss “Jacqueline Kennedy: The White
House Years” Tuesday, March 15 at 7 p.m.
Paluch-Mishur will examine Kennedy’s
impact on the culture in America during her
years as first lady. The slide lecture will
cover the style, grace and fashion of the
former First Lady. This presentation
coincides with an exhibit currently at the
Field Museum.
➤ Young children can come and enjoy
“Mother Goose and Friends,” an interactive story time with Mary Jane Haley,
March 19 at 11 a.m. Children under 6 must
be accompanied by an adult. Registration
begins March 5.
➤ John Hojek is returning to teach “Basic
Microsoft Word Level 1” Monday, March
21 from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Limited seating is
available and registration is necessary. A
$20 cash deposit is required at the time of
registration, to be returned after attending
the class or canceling by March 14.■
Fire Dept. rating
saves residents
money
By Marlene Cook
The South Holland Fire Department
has one of the highest rated ISO
(Insurance Service Offices) in the south
suburbs.
The ratings come after inspectors
spend a week to 10-days evaluating
every aspect of firefighting and then
rating the department. The ratings
determine the property insurance premiums for all homeowners within that
jurisdiction. The ratings are listed on
each homeowner insurance policy.
The ratings go from one to 10, one
being the best, 10 the worst. South
Holland is rated a three. No village in
the south suburbs earned a higher rank
and only Oak Forest and Tinley Park
share the rank of three.
When rating departments the ISO
inspectors take into consideration
manpower, availability, number and
location of stations, number of trucks
and equipment, training, how alarms
are handled, how the dispatch center
operates and technology.
Also in the mix are the number of fire
hydrants, water supply and pressure.
South Holland has one hydrant every
300 feet.
Fire Chief Jim Wiley is confident that
the next time the inspectors come to
visit, the ratings will be even better
since more technology has been
implemented for . ■
SOUTH HOLLAND TODAY
VILLAGE OF
SOUTH HOLLAND
Kudos to Valley Kingdom
Mayor Don De Graff and the Village
Board were recently invited to Valley
Kingdom Ministries International
Church where they applauded Apostle
H. Daniel Wilson and the active
ministries of the church for their ability
to reach out to others, such as people
impacted by HIV.
http://www.southholland.org
DON A. DE GRAFF, President
15962 Louis Ave. • 339-8707 • 210-2911
SALLIE D. PENMAN, Clerk
16753 Paxton • 895-0854
ARTHUR L. BENNETT, Trustee
17100 Jeffery Ave. • 418-5532
N. KEITH CHAMBERS, Trustee
17305 Windsor Court • 251-5010
Prevent house fires with these tips
By Marlene Cook
Fires hit South Holland hard recently,
resulting in loss of life and property.
So South Holland Fire Chief Jim Wiley
wants residents to help him fight back.
“Make sure your detectors are working,”
he said. “And if your smoke detector is more
than 10 years old, get a new one.”
He also stressed the importance of
cleaning out dryer vents after each load.
“And every once in a while take the back
off the dryer and vacuum the lint from it too.
Check the hoses to make sure there is no lint
blocking the exhaust.”
Fire Inspector Randy Stegenga added,
“Never leave the kitchen while there is
something cooking on the stove, and never
leave your house with candles burning.”
Following are tips targeting the safety of
children:
✔ Store matches and lighters out of
children’s reach and sight, preferable in a locked cabinet.
✔ Teach toddlers to tell you
when they find a match or
lighter.
✔ When a child is
curious about fire or has
been playing with fire, calmly and firmly
explain that matches and lighters are tools for
adults to use carefully.
✔ Never use matches or lighters as
amusement. Children will imitate.
✔ Practice and teach fire safety behaviors
in your home.
LARRY W. DeYOUNG, Trustee
507 Betty Lane • 339-4535
CYNTHIA L. DOORN, Trustee
16407 Michigan • 339-6891
FRANK E. KNITTLE, Trustee
15900 Woodlawn East Dr. • 339-8815
JAMES H. VELD, Trustee
455 East 163rd Street • 333-1322
BETH HERMAN, Treasurer
16714 Greenwood Ave. • 596-1604
Village Board Meetings
Municipal Building • 16226 Wausau Ave.
First and Third Mondays of each month, 8:00 PM
Village Administrator
J. Wynsma • 210-2913
Deputy Village Administrator
Patricia R. Mahon • 210-2906
Director of Communications
Mary Ann Thornton • 210-2918
✔ Keep children away from the stove when
cooking.
Dir.of Planning, Development
& Code Enforcement
Warren DeGraff • 210-2915
✔
Flood Assistance Coordinator
Fred Block • 210-2915
Don’t overload outlets. ■
Economic Development Coord.
Virgil O. Jordan, Jr. • 210-2915
Dir. of Parks & Recreation
Wally Widelski • 331-2940
WHAT’S GOIN’
ON IN TOWN?
By Marlene Cook
ANOTHER NEW BUSINESS
Cobalt Holdings LLC, maker of rubber
playground padding, is planning to take over
the vacant Midwest Fastener property at 665
Armory Drive and has spent $40,000 on
building upgrades.
CONTINUING TO GROW
The Village Board approved January
building permits representing $842,197 of
investment that includes build-outs for new
businesses, Mak Mortgage, Avalar Realty
and Advance Group Care Products, as well as
upgrades at All Steel Structure and for a third
addition to Gibraltar Chemical.
HOP TO IT
South Holland Parks and Rec. is planning
its annual Easter Egg Hunt on
March 19, 10 a.m. at Veterans
Park and is asking businesses
and organizations to donate
$10 for a basket, or donate a
basket of equal value. Last
year, 215 baskets were distributed. Phone
331-2940 for more information.
HAIR TODAY, GONE TOMORROW
The South Holland Fire Department has
volunteered to assist St. Baldrick’s Celebration to raise funds for the National Childhood
Cancer Foundation. Businesses in town that
post the largest donation or most pledges get
to help shave the head of Fire Inspector Joe
Konicek. To learn how you can contribute, go
online to www.stbaldricks.org or
www.iaff4109.org. For additional information, contact Tom Farr at the Fire Dept., 708331-3123.
THAT’S SUCCESS
OnLine Auction has been in business only
six months and continues to grow each
month. Hundreds of items have been sold for
clients through e-Bay, but the most significant is an antique car, a 1969 Hemi Road
Runner, sold to someone in Portland, Oregon
for $86,000.
TAX AID AVAILABLE
AARP Tax-Aide helps taxpayers with
middle and low income or those over age 60
with tax counseling and preparation service.
Locations include Thornton Township Senior Center in Calumet Center and Thornton,
Calumet City, Dolton and Riverdale Libraries. Phone 1-888-227-7669 for information.
LET’S GO!
The new 2005 Chicago Southland Visitors
Guide can be requested by phone, 895-8200,
or by e-mail at info@visitchicago
southland.com.
YOUTH JOB FAIR SCHEDULED
Thornton Township’s 8th annual Youth
Job Fair for young adults ages 16 to 21 will be
held Wednesday, March 23, 3 to 6:30 p.m. at
South Suburban College Field House, 159th
& State St., South Holland, IL. For more
information call 708-596-6040.
WHATEVER HAPPENED TO:
Longtime South Holland resident Marty
Russo has been appointed chief executive
officer and senior vice chairman of Cassidy
Associates, the largest non-lobbying firm in
Washington DC. The former congressman
was elected in 1974 and served the 3rd
Congressional District for 18 years. ■
Dir. of Public Works
Edward Wilmes • 339-2323
Police Chief
Warren Millsaps • 331-3131
Fire Chief
James Wiley • 210-2922
Fire Inspector
Randall Stegenga • 331-3123
Dir. of Emergency Services
Disaster Agency
John Thomas, Jr. • 210-2919
Village Engineers
Robinson Engineering • 331-6700
Village Attorney / Prosecutor
Hiskes & Dillner • 333-1234
Public Access TV Coordinator
Herb DeYoung • 339-2744
Librarian
Alma DeYoung • 331-5262
Regularly Scheduled Meetings
Village Board Committees ....................... 1st Mon., 7 PM
Cable Commission ........................... Call for information
Local Ordinance Hearings ..................... 3rd Tues., 7 PM
Housing Hearings .................................. 3rd Tues., 5 PM
Parking Hearings .............................. 3rd Tues., 6:30 PM
Economic Develop. Commission ....... 1st Tues., 7:30 PM
Planning & Develop. Commission ...... 1st Wed., 7:30 PM
Flood Control Liaison Committee ..... Call for information
Communications Commission ................ 4th Tues., 7 PM
Home Equity Assurance Committee ............ 1st Mon. of
Feb., 7:30 PM
Community Development Committee ...... 3rd Mon., 7 PM
Neighborhood Groups Committee ........ 4th Sat., 8:30 AM
Mediation & Reconciliation Cmsn. .... 4th Thurs., 6:00 PM
bimonthly
Because special meetings are sometimes scheduled
and cancellations and changes frequently occur, it is
always wise to call 708/210-2900 ahead of time to
confirm individual meetings.
POLICE - FIRE - PARAMEDICS
9-1-1
Non-Emergency: Police • 331-3131 Fire • 331-3123
VILLAGE CLERK’S OFFICE
Phone • 210-2910
FAX • 210-1019
COLLECTOR & WATER BILLING
16226 Wausau Ave. • 210-2900
Office hours: Mon. thru Fri., 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM;
Sat., 8:00 AM to Noon