Community > Press Releases Archive

Wheeling Police Looks to Crack Down on DUI'S During Holidays

Wheeling, Illinois -December 5, 2005-The Wheeling Police in conjunction with the Buffalo Grove Police Department, will be conducting a driving under the (DUI) crackdown called 'Providing a Safe Run on Route 21' for the next two weekends. According to Tom Pilewski, Police Safe Communities Coordinator, the initiative will include a Roadside Safety Checkpoint (RSC) the weekend of December 17-18.

"As part of 'Providing a Safe Run on Route 21' Wheeling Police Officers will be conducting an RSC from approximately 9 am Saturday, December to approximately 2pm Sunday, December 18 along Milwaukee Ave. in Wheeling," Pilewski said. "While we always encourage drivers to be safe and responsible and not drink and drive, we take extra precaution during the holiday season with an increase in traffic due to shopping, parties, etc."

Communities along Milwaukee Ave. from the Chicago city limits to the border will be conducting various 'Providing a Safe Run on Route 21' programs throughout the month of December. This initiative is funded through a grant from the Illinois Department of Transportation. For more information regarding this and other traffic safety programs, call the Wheeling Police at 847-459-2632.

Pavilion Senior Center Hosts 'Achieving Happiness Forum'

Wheeling, Illinois - November 10, 2005 - Our very constitution is founded on the principles of life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness. However, achieving a level of happiness while juggling family, job and general life responsibilities can seem almost impossible to achieve…but it doesn't have to be that way. Jan Christiansen, MSW, Social Worker, will host a Community Awareness Education Forum, 'How to Be Happy,' from 1 to 2 p.m. and 7 to 8 p.m. Wednesday, November 30 at the Pavilion Senior Center, 199 N. First Street, Wheeling. The forum will focus on making ourselves happy, especially in the face of adversity. Christiansen will discuss some quick pick-me-ups as well as some helpful tips on how to strive for happiness at all times in light of trying to create the proverbial 'perfect life.' For more information, contact Jan Christiansen, Social Worker, at 847-459-2670.

Wheeling Fire Department Presented With Safety Award

Wheeling, Illinois - November 10, 2005 - The Wheeling Fire Department was recently named a recipient of a Life Safety Achievement Award for 2004 by the Residential Fire Safety Institute (RFSI). The RFSI is a partnership of the United States Fire Administration, State Fire Marshals and various fire/safety agencies and organizations. For more than a decade, the Life Safety Achievement Award has recognized the local fire prevention activities that contribute to the reduction of lives lost in residential fires.

The Life Safety Award is based upon compliance with the following criteria: Documented fire prevention activities; Documented public education program; No documented fire deaths within the past calendar year.

Wheeling was one of 792 fire departments nationwide to be recognized and has received the Life Safety Award six of the last seven years. This award is a direct result of the department's public education programs, combined with a strong emphasis on code enforcement, that has created a fire safe culture within the community whose benefits are becoming more apparent each year.

"This award is the direct result of fire prevention efforts made by all members of the Wheeling Fire Department," said Keith MacIsaac, Fire Chief. "However, particular attention should be given to the specific efforts of the Fire Prevention Bureau, led by Fire Marshal Milt Lemke, and the Public Education Committee, led by Lt./Paramedic Bart Burns. These two groups have clearly had a profound impact on the relatively low fire incident rate experienced by the Village of Wheeling over the past decade."

Wheeling Partners With Marine Corps Reserve for Toys for Tots

Wheeling, Illinois – November 7, 2005 – Believe it or not, we are in the twilight of another year, meaning the holiday season is upon us. This time of year oftentimes brings out the best in the human spirit, and the Village of Wheeling invites you to participate in an annual tradition that fosters a spirit of peace on earth, goodwill to all.

The Village is once again partnering with the United States Marine Corps Reserve to ensure that every child ‘has a little Christmas.’ Individuals are encouraged to drop off new, unwrapped toys in the front lobby of Village Hall, the Pavilion Senior Center, Public Works Headquarters and the Ram Restaurant and Brewery. Bob Chinn’s Crabhouse will also be collecting toys beginning the Friday after Thanksgiving. Toys will be collected until Friday, December 16.

Over the past 14 years, the Toys for Tots Foundation has collected and distributed more than 55.5 million toys valued at more than $284 million. Last year, more than 40,000 needy children in the Northern Chicago Zone received toys thanks to people just like you; let’s do our part again this year.

For more information, call 847-459-2600 or log onto www.toysfortots.org.

Memorial, Services Scheduled for Wheeling Public Works Employee

Wheeling, Illinois - October 5, 2005 - Visitation for Chris Brown, a Village of Wheeling Public Works employee who passed away Monday, is scheduled for 2 to 8 p.m. Friday, October 7 at Kolssak's Funeral Home, 189 S. Milwaukee Avenue with a memorial service beginning at 8 p.m.

Funeral services are scheduled for 5 p.m., Sunday, October 9 at the Christian Church of Spencer, 157 S. Montgomery Street, Spencer, IN 47460. The West End Parrish Funeral Home is coordinating visitation and services in Spencer [www.westparrishpedigo.com].

Donations are being accepted at Village Hall, 255 W. Dundee Road, Wheeling, IL 60090 for the Haley Brown Education Fund. Checks should be made out to the Village of Wheeling with the memo line stating 'education fund.'

Wheeling Public Works Employee Dies Suddenly

Wheeling, Illinois - October 4, 2005 - A Village of Wheeling Public Works employee collapsed and became unresponsive at approximately 10:45 a.m. yesterday while performing routine maintenance at the Village's south water pumping station. Chris Brown, a Utilities Division Maintenance Operator, was taken by ambulance to Glenbrook Hospital where he was pronounced dead upon arrival. The 37-year-old had been with the Public Works Department since 1997.

"There are no words to express our shock and grief at Chris' sudden passing," said Chuck Spratt, Director of Public Works. "Our thoughts and prayers are certainly with his family during this trying time."

Brown, a native of Spencer, Indiana, was a United States Army veteran who served during the first Gulf War.

The Lake in the Hills resident is survived by his wife, 5-year-old daughter and parents; funeral arrangements are pending.

According to Village officials, the cause of death is unknown and under investigation.

Wheeling Special Census Scheduled; Workers Needed

Wheeling, Illinois - September 27, 2005 - Due to annexations and numerous residential development projects, the Village of Wheeling will be conducting a partial special census this fall. The Village's next official census was not scheduled until 2011 resulting in the decision to contact the United States Census Bureau to conduct this special count.

According to Village officials, numerous employment positions will need to be filled including crew leaders, enumerators and clerical staff. Applicant criteria includes: " Prospective applicants should be at least 18-years-old; persons may be hired at age 16 or 17-years-old if they meet the conditions of employment set by state and local laws, and driving is not a function of the job.

" Prospective enumerators and crew leaders must have a valid drivers license and a vehicle available for their use, have the ability to hear responses and to read questionnaires, be able to work several hours per day (minimum of 20 hours per week) which often includes a lot of walking and climbing stairs, be available for day, evening and weekend work, as needed, and be available to attend a three-day training session. In addition, they must have a private, corded home telephone.

Applicants can begin picking up applications at Village Hall, 255 W. Dundee Road, October 3 and register for position testing. Each applicant will need to register with him or her name, mailing address and telephone number. Applicants will receive a 'Notice to Report for Testing' postcard if they meet all criteria and be given a date/location where they will take the U.S. Census Bureau exam.

"Enumerators will be physically walking from door-to-door counting residents, clerical positions will be tabulating results and crew leaders will be scheduling shifts for enumerators and ensuring they are in the right neighborhoods," said Ken Bonder, Assistant Village Manager. "We anticipate that the special census of the newly annexed areas should mean that our population will increase between 3,000 to 4,000 persons which will result in increased revenue sharing for the Village.

Katrina Efforts Continue; Many Months of Recovery Ahead 

Wheeling, Illinois – September 13, 2005 – Residents, organizations and companies wishing to make monetary donations towards the Hurricane Katrina Relief Fund can drop them off or mail them to the Village of Wheeling, 255 W. Dundee Road. Checks need to be made out to the Village of Wheeling. The memo line of the check should be clearly marked with ‘Hurricane Relief Fund.’ The Village Board has pledged to match 50 cents for every dollar donated, up to $5,000. “Once we’ve raised a significant amount of money, the Village is hoping to designate a particular town within the area of impact to ‘unofficially’ adopt,” said James Lang, Public Relations Director for the Village of Wheeling. “We’ll have our Village President and Board contact the political leaders of whichever town we select to determine the best method to assist them.”  

In addition to accepting donations at Village Hall, residents will have the option to donate via their water bill payment beginning with the next water billing cycle.

At Monday night’s Board meeting, Fire Chief Keith MacIsaac told how Firefighter/Paramedics Steven Mella and David Cafferkey had flown to Atlanta on September 7 as part of a mass deployment of firefighters and emergency technicians from around the country.

“Steve and David have been on a whirlwind trip through Texas helping out at shelters in Austin, Arlington, Irving and Corpus Christi,” said MacIsaac. “As of Monday, September 12, they were scheduled to fly to a small town in south Texas for a few days before going to Orlando for a couple of days of training. Sometime next week they will actually be shipped into the ‘hurricane zone’ to help returning individuals with everything from filling out federal disaster loan applications to attending to day-to-day medical needs.”

Mella and Cafferkey are scheduled to be deployed for approximately 30 days. Lt./Paramedic Mike Burns and Firefighter/Paramedic Bryan Meisinger have received designated FEMA team numbers, but have yet to be activated for deployment.

Annual Water Flushing Scheduled to Begin Soon

Wheeling, Illinois – September 12, 2005 - The Village of Wheeling’s annual fire hydrant flushing is scheduled to begin September 19, weather permitting, and run through the first week October.  

“The flushing is an important preventative maintenance program and is undertaken to remove particulate matter and corrosion from the system,” said Steve Morris, Utility Superintendent. “Residents may notice a little less water pressure and discoloration of their water during the flushing program, however, the water is completely safe to drink.” Residents are advised to check the color of the water before beginning laundry in order to prevent any staining.

Signs will be posted in areas designated for flushing one day in advance of the work.

Village Implements 'Katrina' Relief Efforts

Wheeling, Illinois - September 6, 2005 - As America watches the unfathomable erosion of one of its iconic cities, Village of Wheeling officials are joining municipalities across the country to assist with relief efforts for New Orleans and the surrounding areas.

Residents, organizations and companies wishing to make monetary donations towards the Hurricane Katrina Relief Fund can drop them off or mail them to the Village of Wheeling, 255 W. Dundee Road. Checks need to be made out to the Village of Wheeling. The memo line of the check should be clearly marked with 'Hurricane Relief Fund.' Village officials will work with the American Red Cross and other applicable agencies to ensure the donations are distributed to victims in Louisiana, Mississippi and Alabama. "We've received a lot of calls asking what types of items people can donate," said James Lang, Public Relations Director for the Village of Wheeling. "Red Cross officials have advised that they need financial contributions rather than canned goods, clothing, etc. due to the difficulty in transporting those types of items to the impacted areas."

In addition, beginning with the next water billing cycle, residents will have the option to donate via their water bill payment.

"There has been a tremendous outpouring of support and concern across the country for our fellow Americans in New Orleans and the surrounding areas and Wheeling wants to help as much as possible," Lang added. "The Board of Trustees has pledged to match fifty cents for every dollar donated up to $5,000."

Also, in a mass display of intergovernmental cooperation, fire departments across the country, including Wheeling, have committed to sending two-man teams to the flood-ravaged areas. Firefighter/Paramedics Steven Mella and David Cafferkey are flying to Atlanta Wednesday morning to meet up with battalions of other firefighters who will assist in recovery efforts in the flooded region.

"As soon as the emergency assistance call came in, I had guys willing to leave that day," said Fire Chief Keith MacIsaac. "Steven and David are both experienced, outstanding firefighter/paramedics who will join firefighters and rescue technicians from across the country in what will undoubtedly be a grim recovery process."

Mella and Cafferkey are scheduled to be deployed for approximately 30 days. If necessary, Lt./Paramedic Mike Burns and Firefighter/Paramedic Bryan Meisinger are standing by to be deployed.

Wheeling Artist' Family Dedicates Original Artwork to Village

Wheeling, Illinois - August 8, 2005 - The family of renowned Chicagoland artist William L. Rubin dedicated an original piece of artwork to the Village of Wheeling Board of Trustees during its August 8 meeting. The late artist's daughter, Pamela Brenghause, her husband Henry and children Georgine, Alan and Mitchell were on hand to see a piece of their father and grandfather's legacy officially dedicated to Wheeling.

Mr. Rubin and his wife Sylvia were 20-plus year residents of Wheeling and Ms. Brenghause thought it appropriate to dedicate a piece to the town he loved.

"Even though my father became a renowned artist primarily for his depictions of Chicago, both he and my mother loved Wheeling and were proud to be residents of the community," Brenghause said.

Rubin's ability to transfer reality into art enabled him to transition from a successful businessman to full-time artist in the late 1970's. According to a feature article in the December 12, 1983 Crain's Chicago Business, Mr. Rubin's artwork adorned the walls of corporate giants like Quaker Oats Co. and Dart and Kraft, Inc. In addition, Mr. Rubin was the only artist chosen to exhibit at the city's 150th birthday party. His daughter related that it still not uncommon to see her father's artwork in a variety of venues around town.

"My family and I were having dinner at Harry Caray's Restaurant and I noticed a painting of Wrigley Field that looked familiar," Brenghause said. "Upon inspection, sure enough, there was his signature in the lower right-hand corner; that was a really neat moment."

Although both Mr. and Mrs. Rubin have passed away, their memories will truly live on…meticulously painted over time on canvasses that bridge the past with the present. And the Village of Wheeling is honored to be a part of those memories.

In addition to the original piece dedicated to the Village, six other Rubin originals will be on display at Village Hall, 255 W. Dundee, until August 15.

Governor Blagojevich Officially Extends Crossroads TIF

Wheeling, Illinois - July 25, 2005 - Governor Rod Blagojevich penned his signature to the Tax Increment Financing extension bill into law last week officially extending the Crossroads TIF until 2019. Prior to the extension, the TIF district had been scheduled to end in May, 2008.

"We're thrilled the Governor acted to extend the Crossroads TIF District," said Village President Greg Klatecki. "There are just too many projects in that TIF district that will not be complete by 2008 and this extension will allow us to maximize the potential of some recently acquired properties in the Crossroads District."

According to Michael Mondschain, Finance Director, the extension will allow the Village to pursue a variety of retail, restaurant and mixed-use development and redevelopment projects along Milwaukee Avenue. The Crossroads TIF District encompasses what is commonly known as 'Restaurant Row' and extends north to Strong Avenue and south to Manchester Road.

In keeping with Illinois legislative preferred procedure and policy, the Village sought and received the support of other taxing districts that are affected by the use of TIF districts as development tools. "Both District 21 and 214 as well as the park district gave their approval and support for the extension," Mondschain said. "The Village agreed to begin paying the school districts their share of TIF funds in December, 2005 that neither district would have seen until 2010, making this a win-win situation for all taxing districts involved."

Village Celebrates Nation's Birthday With Two-Day 'Freedom Fest'

Wheeling, Illinois - June 6, 2005 - The Village of Wheeling is having a party and everyone is invited. In honor of Independence Day, the Village is hosting a two-day 'Freedom Fest' celebration, July 3-4 in the field between Village Hall and the Park District Community Recreation Center, featuring live music, food and drink, kids' activities, a parade and spectacular fireworks show.

"The Village Board decided to enhance its annual July 4 celebration by adding an additional day and a few other twists," said James Lang, Public Relations Director. "Staff has worked hard to put together an entertaining and fun-filled two days of food, music and activities and we'll be placing our weather order soon," he added.

The event kicks off at 2 p.m. Sunday, July 3, running until 10:30 p.m. and resumes at 1 p.m. July 4 and concludes with the last firework. Live music for July 3 includes country music group Virgil Kane, 80's cover band Selective Recall, the Blooze Brothers and up and coming rock band, Bellevue Suite. July 4 kicks off with a tribute to the kings (and queens) of Motown by BBI followed by critically acclaimed children's artist, Justin Roberts and the Not-Ready-For-Naptime-Players. Nationally known Elvis-impersonator Ronnie Navarra finishes up the afternoon, leading up to the 6 p.m. parade. Following the parade the Kimi Hayes Band begins the evening's entertainment and one of the most popular Chicago-area bands of the past 15 years, the Underwater People, concludes the two days of musical entertainment.

"We have assembled an outstanding line-up of live music that includes acts who have played venues like House of Blues, Milwaukee's Summer Fest, Cubby Bear, Navy Pier and Taste of Chicago to name a few," Lang said. "From rhythm and blues to rock and roll, there will be something for every type of music lover."

Kids and adults alike will enjoy other scheduled entertainment such as Mike Mauthe, a variety entertainer/magician, balloon artist, stilt-walker, juggler, etc. who will be performing two shows and participating in the parade and the return of the ever-popular Jesse White Tumblers.

A variety of activities such as the giant inflatable slide, moonwalk choo-choo train, wind tunnel crazy caterpillar, trackless choo-choo, Rocky Mountain Climbing Wall and the Extreme Peaks Climbing Wall will be sure to keep the kids entertained. Also scheduled to round out the entertainment are a children's magician and storyteller, Pit-Stop Productions Miniature Racing Cars, 'Seemore the Eagle,' 'Willy the Whale,' 'PW Paws,' 'McGruff the Crime Dog' and other life-size characters and fun activities such as face painting and various midway games.

No festival would be complete without food and drink, and the 'Taste of Wheeling' returns bigger and better than ever. Featured restaurants include: Bob Chinn's Crabhouse, Buca de beppo, The Oven, Tuscany, Golden Chef, Gyros Pit, Market Square, Wa-Pa-Ghetti's, Sauer's Bake Shop, Lupita's, Gators, Rocky Vander's, Knights of Columbus, VFW Post 66, Joe's Pizza and Danny Dogs and I Am Siam. New to this year's event will be a beer garden, provided by Skokie Valley Beverage of Wheeling.

"Some old favorites have returned, such as Sauer's with their funnel cakes, but it's always nice to shake the menu up a little with items like Gators award-winning hot wings and Bob Chinn's gumbo," Lang said. "The 'Taste' features a nice variety, nothing too expensive and items for the kids, such as hot dogs and hamburgers."

Event parking will be clearly identified and include the following lots off of Dundee Roads and Northgate Parkway: Wheeling Park District Community Center and Aquatic Center, Wickes' Furniture Lot and the Metra Station Lot. In addition, patrons can use the lots of Holmes Middle School and Heritage Park off of Wolf Road. "We encourage people to carpool, ride their bikes or walk in order to cut down on any potential traffic problems on Dundee Road and the surrounding areas," Lang said.

"We're extremely excited about this year's event and the chance to celebrate America's independence with both old and new friends," Lang concluded.

Foxboro Apartment Complex Completes Crime-Free Multi-Housing Program Certification Process

Wheeling, Illinois - May 2, 2005 - Wheeling's Foxboro Apartment Complex recently became the first rental property in the Village to complete all three phases of the Crime-Free-Multi-Housing program resulting in complete certification. Foxboro's management began the first steps towards certification last year by taking the initial eight-hour training course. The program is designed to align rental property owners, managers and leasing staff with the police and fire departments in an effort to keep illegal activities out of rental properties.

"It was extremely important to get the first group through the program so we could get word out to other rental properties in town," said Sgt. Pet Panagakis, Crime Prevention Unit Supervisor.

Now that the Foxboro Complex is fully certified, management can post the C.F.M.H. signs on their property. Management can also utilize the C.F.M.H. logo which has achieved a high level of recognition in the United States and Canada. It has proven very effective in attracting honest residents looking for safe housing and has worked equally well in discouraging individuals who may target apartment complexes for criminal activity.

The program is a three-tiered certification process that involves [Phase I] an 8-hour training course, [Phase II] visual inspection of the property to assess physical security and general appearance of the property (must meet minimum security requirements) and [Phase III] the hosting of a safety social that involves property management, residents and police personnel. The success of the program is based entirely on reducing criminal activity at participating properties.

Throughout the certification process, the instructors focus on topics such as understanding crime prevention, common sense self defense, community rules regarding leases, combating crime problems, dealing with non-compliance and partnering with local police and fire personnel.

"The implementation of the procedures taught during the program is an important step towards achieving our goal of decreased crime," Panagakis said. "We encourage the managers to create a Crime Free Lease Addendum which cites specific actions that will be taken by management should a resident, or somebody under a resident's control, is involved in illegal or dangerous activity on or near the rental property. This step is important in that crime prevention measures are in place from the first day a potential resident walks in to sign a lease."

Making Homes, Schools and Workplaces Safer Together - Building Safety Week, May 8-14

Wheeling, Illinois - May 1, 2005 - Building code enforcement is the job of professionals who work in the Community Development Department and the Fire Prevention Bureau. During the week of May 8-14, your local building department will be a part of the worldwide celebration of Building Safety Week. Building Safety Week raises public awareness of building safety to promote the use, enforcement and understanding of building safety and fire prevention codes to protect lives and property. "Making Homes, Schools and Workplaces Safer Together" is the theme of Building Safety Week 2005.

Building code regulations in the Village of Wheeling help to ensure that homes, schools, workplaces and other buildings are as safe as possible. Codes address all aspects of construction including structural integrity, electrical, mechanical, plumbing systems and property maintenance. "Building and code officials are here to help the public understand building safety issues," said James Kelly, Building Director. "In this age of do-it-yourselfers it becomes extremely important for homeowners to work with the Village of Wheeling to make sure their residence fully complies with building safety codes."

The importance of regulating and enforcing building codes is, unfortunately, often overlooked until a catastrophic tragedy occurs. The inspection of buildings during and after construction by inspectors from the Community Development Department and Fire Department helps to ensure that buildings in the community are safe places to live, work, play and learn. The Community Development Department also enforces property maintenance regulations, reviews building plans and issues building permits. Building Safety Week, first observed in 1980, is sponsored by the International Code Council Foundation, an organization dedicated to changing the devastating effects of natural disasters and other building tragedies worldwide by promoting ideas, methods and technologies that encourage the construction of durable, sustainable buildings and homes.

The Village of Wheeling is an active member of the International Code Council, a membership organization dedicated to building safety and fire prevention. The International Code Council develops the codes used to construct residential and commercial buildings, including homes and schools. Most U.S. cities, counties and states that adopt codes choose the International Codes developed by the International Code Council.

Westin-North Shore Looks to Call Wheeling Home

Wheeling, Illinois - March 21, 2005 - Shovels and smiles took center stage at 3:30 p.m. Friday, March 18, 2005 as officials from Village of Wheeling, Mid-America Investment and Development Company and the Harp Group moved the first of what will be many shovels of dirt during the construction of the Westin North Shore Hotel. Actual demolition and construction is scheduled to begin in late spring with an early 2007 grand opening planned.

It was roughly one year ago to the day that developers from Mid-America outlined their proposal to build the estimated $114-million, 441-room Westin-North Shore Hotel to the Village Board, receiving a resounding seal of approval. The hotel, convention center and retail complex will occupy the area where the Wedgewood Riding Stables sit, as well as the vacant lot to the south, the Wonder Bread outlet and AAA Auto Sales on Milwaukee Ave. Mid-America Development has contracts to buy all of the land. The hotel itself will consist of an 18-story, 225-foot high tower and be the anchor of the 410,000 square-foot complex that will include retail and restaurant space, a bank and parking for approximately 900 vehicles.

"The Westin North Shore will be an exceptional facility that sets a new standard of excellence in the northern suburbs," said David Bossy, President of Mid-America. "The adjacent restaurants and retail stores we are developing will help attract guests to the hotel and create an exciting destination for residents of Wheeling and its neighboring communities."

Village officials are confident the hotel will not only enhance the Village's image, but have a dramatic impact on the economic landscape. "This will bring in money without putting the burden on the schools or the library," said President Greg Klatecki.

The project is projected to create 300 to 400 construction jobs and the equivalent of about 1,000 permanent full-time positions. In addition, the hotel and retail complex is expected to generate more than $100 million in real estate taxes, hotel taxes, sales taxes and telecommunications taxes over the next 22 years.

War on Terror Affects Village of Wheeling Administration

Wheeling, Illinois - February 17, 2005 - The effects of the war on terrorism extended to the Wheeling government offices recently as J. Mark Rooney, Assistant Village Manager, and a lieutenant colonel in the United States Army reserve, was activated to serve an 18-month deployment in the middle east. Rooney's swift activation prompted the Village Board to authorize the execution of a contract with Miller Cooper & Company at its February 14 Board meeting for professional consulting services regarding the Assistant Village Manager's position.

Effective February 15, Kenneth M. Bonder will begin assuming the duties previously assigned to the Assistant Village Manager. Bonder is no stranger to the northwest suburbs or government management as his distinguished career included serving as both the Finance Director and Village Manager for Arlington Heights, City Manager for Prospect Heights and most recently Chief Financial Officer for the City of Palatine.

"We will certainly miss Mark and our thoughts, prayers and support go with him and his family as he serves our country in the middle east," said Greg Klatecki, Village President. "In Mark's absence, the Board felt that Ken's familiarity with the northwest suburbs combined with his almost 40-years of experience in government management would enable us to remain on schedule with all of the ongoing projects."

Bonder's first official day on the job is March 1.

Village Proposes Changes To Zoning Ordinance

Wheeling, Illinois - February 14, 2005 - The Village of Wheeling Planning Division unveils its proposed changes to the Village Zoning Ordinance and accompanying map during a public hearing at the 7 p.m. February 24 Plan Commission meeting in Council Chambers, 255 W. Dundee Road. The proposed changes range from minor regulatory changes to the creation of new mixed-use zoning districts. According to Andrew Jennings, Village Planner, the new mixed-use zoning districts would integrate various uses such as residential, commercial and open space and be utilized in three areas within the Village. "The most prominent of the mixed-use districts would be a transit-oriented district intended to promote and jump start the development of Wheeling's Town Center," Jennings said. "Additional mixed-use districts would be located along Wolf Road between Dundee and Lake Cook Roads and along McHenry Road near Weiland Road." Another proposed major revision involves the designation of zoning districts for properties recently annexed into the Village. In most instances, the proposed zoning district matches current uses; however the proposed district along Milwaukee Avenue near the airport will promote commercial development rather than industrial. The last major proposal involves adjusting the boundaries of the single and multi-family zones along Strong Avenue in order to encourage a consistent housing character along each block front. Jennings added that in addition to the major changes, there were proposals for several minor regulatory changes that would be included during the hearing. "The majority of the regulatory changes involve standards and procedures in the zoning code, but two proposed changes will also have an impact on the zoning map," he said. "The two Planned Development Districts known as PD-3 and PD-4 will be consolidated into a single district called PDD and a new single family district called R-3A would be created to accommodate existing neighborhoods characterized by smaller lots." The new R-3A district affects those homes whose lot sizes do not meet minimum lot size requirements, and therefore require a variation for any construction or additions. The proposed small-lot district would allow additions to many homes without requiring the homeowner to go through the variation process. Other minor changes proposed include reducing the number of commercial zoning districts from five to three, introduction of bicycle parking standards, increased landscaping and buffer requirements and an adjustment to parking requirements including an increase in the requirements for multi-family developments.

Cook County Treasurer's Office Partners With Bank One

Wheeling, Illinois - January 31, 2005 - The Cook County Treasurer's Office has entered into a new partnership with Bank One for acceptance of property tax payments. The new partnership replaces LaSalle Bank and takes effect with the first installment property tax bills that will be mailed at the end of January and due March 1, 2005.

This change means that Cook County residents can pay their property tax bills at any of the more than 250 Bank One locations in Chicagoland free of charge. Payment will no longer be accepted at any LaSalle Bank location.

For more information, contact the Cook County Treasurer's Office at 312-603-7117 or log onto www.cookcountytreasurer.com.

Trustee Trevor Lehmann dies after valiant battle against ALS disease

Wheeling, Illinois – January 13, 2005 – After a valiant 10-month fight, Trustee Trevor Lehmann succumbed to amyotrophic lateral sclerosis disease shortly after 3 p.m. Thursday, January 13, 2005. Lehmann, who had served on the Board of Trustees since 1997, was 37-years-old. 

“Today is an extremely sad day for Wheeling as we say good-bye to our friend and colleague,” said Village President Greg Klatecki. “Our thoughts and prayers go out to Trevor’s family as we all mourn the passing of a man who truly loved this Village. Trevor dedicated his life to making Wheeling a better place to live and he will be missed and remembered.”

Visitation is scheduled for noon to 8 p.m. Sunday, January 16, 2005 at Kolssak Funeral Home, 189 S. Milwaukee Avenue, Wheeling. Funeral services will begin at 10 a.m. Monday at Kolssak Funeral Home and conclude with an 11 a.m. mass at St. Joseph the Worker Catholic Church, 181 W. Dundee Road, Wheeling. 

For more information contact: 
James Lang – Public Relations Coordinator – 847-459-2605
Dean Argiris – Village of Wheeling Trustee – 847-845-6990
Lou Kolssak – Director, Kolssak Funeral Home – 847-537-6600 

Village Board Pledges Financial Support for Tsunami Victims

Wheeling, Illinois - January 6, 2005 - The Village of Wheeling Board of Trustees recently pledged $5000 in financial assistance towards the ever-growing relief fund for victims of the devastating tsunami that struck India and other parts of southeast Asia December 26.

Prior to asking the Board for its approval at Monday night's Board meeting, President Greg Klatecki stated that Wheeling's Swaminarayan Hindu Temple was quick to commit financial assistance to the September 11 disaster fund. "Our neighbors at the Swaminarayan Temple offered prayers, condolences and donated money in the aftermath of one of the darkest days in America's history and now, we need to do the same for them in the wake of this tragedy."

According to the Associated Press, the death toll will surpass 150,000 as a result of this unprecedented natural disaster and that the relief and reconstruction process could be more than a decade in duration.

Cash donations may be sent to The Prime Minister's National Relief Fund. Checks should be mailed to Head of Chancery, Embassy of India, 2107 Massachusetts Ave. NW, Washington, D.C., 20008. Envelopes should be marked "PM's National Relief Fund."

Wheeling Fire Department Says Stay Off Ice!

Wheeling, Illinois - December 27, 2004 - The Wheeling area is surrounded by ponds, lakes, retention basins, drainage ditches in-ground pools and rivers. The Wheeling Fire Department encourages people to stay off any frozen body of water. This advice also includes the family pet, as adults and children will follow them onto the ice.

Each year more and more people become drowning victims of ice related accidents. All too often, the victims are children. The attraction of walking on ice is great and it takes less than one-third of a second for a victim to fall through the ice. Once in the water, victims immediately feel the effects of hypothermia. Survival depends on a quick rescue from the icy waters as self-rescue is very unlikely.

The strength of the ice is not determined by the thickness alone. Wind, rain, sunlight, water currents, temperature and temperature fluctuations all affect the strength of ice. Ice seldom freezes uniformly meaning it can be 12 inches thick in one location, and less than one inch thick just a short distance away. The appearance may look similar making a true judgment of thickness difficult. The only absolute in ice safety is to stay off of it.

Remember, the best advice is to stay off the ice unless it is with your ice skates at your local supervised rink.

Wheeling Restricts Use of Motorized Skateboards, Scooters

Wheeling, Illinois – November 3, 2004 – A lack of state regulation as well as the growing potential for accidents prompted the Village of Wheeling to restrict the use of motorized skateboards and scooters within Village boundaries. The scooters, which have increased substantially in popularity with teenagers, are not classified as a license-required vehicle by the state and therefore not regulated by traffic laws.

“The Village has banned the use of all-terrain vehicles (ATV’s) and dirt bikes on Village streets for several years, but the new scooters were not addressed specifically,” said Corporal Joe Schaff, Traffic Unit Supervisor. “Essentially, the scooters became an issue during the last 12 to 15 months due to their increased popularity.”

If an individual is caught riding a motorized skateboard or scooter, the device could be confiscated and a ticket could be issued. As this is a traffic offense, the offender would be required to appear in court and/or pay any associated fines. These devices can only be operated on private property with the owner’s consent.

“Adding motorized skateboards and scooters to the list of restricted vehicles in the Village was for the safety of the operators,” said John Popadowski, Police Chief. “Roadways like Dundee and Milwaukee are heavily traveled and the addition of a small, unregulated vehicle with a youthful operator just had too much potential for danger.”

Wheeling is not alone in restricting the scooters as Rolling Meadows and Cook County recently enacted restrictions on scooters, pocket bikes and motorized skateboards.

Village Kicks off Holiday Season With Lighting of Lights

Wheeling, Illinois - November 1, 2004 - The Village of Wheeling invites all residents to usher in the holiday season and join together at the annual 'Lighting of the Lights' celebration beginning at 6 p.m. November 21 at Village Hall, 255 W. Dundee Road.

The New Dawns from Wheeling High School will perform seasonal selections, a certain couple from the North Pole will drop by and revelers can enjoy hot chocolate and cookies provided by Market Square Restaurant.

The event culminates with the official lighting of the Village with more than 75,000 lights being turned on in the village at the same time. Lights at Village Hall, Friendship Park Fountain, and along Lake-Cook Road and Milwaukee Avenue will be lit simultaneously officially ushering in the holidays. In addition, individuals are encouraged to bring a new, unwrapped toy for donation as the Village once again supports the United States Marine Corps Reserve Toys for Tots holiday toy drive program. For more information, call 847-459-2600.

Village, Wheeling High School Create Television Partnership

Wheeling, Illinois - October 28, 2004 - Oprah and Leno move over, there's a new show coming to TV sets in the near future. The Village of Wheeling's public access cable channel is going primetime thanks to a unique partnership with Wheeling High School. Beginning in November, the Village's public relations department and Wheeling High School's electronic media classes will produce a variety of public safety announcements and a video magazine show highlighting various aspects of the Village. Currently, Channel 17 is primarily used for broadcasting Village meetings and a continuous scroll of local events and happenings. According to James Lang, Public Relations Coordinator, this partnership will dramatically enhance the current program schedule.

"It has been a goal of mine to create a show for Channel 17 that would be less formal than a Board meeting and give our viewers a different look at their Village," Lang said. "When I learned that the high school had an electronic media department with some extremely talented students I decided to at least explore the possibility of creating a production team."

Lang, who has hosted cable shows for previous communities during his career, was admittedly skeptical in that the success of the show would be largely on the shoulders of high school students and not television professionals.

"I was willing to explore the possibility of working together, but didn't know what to expect in terms of production, camera and editing ability from the students," he said. "However, Jeff Bott, Mike Geist and Gary Freund [media department instructors and director] not only assured me their students were talented, but they showed me samples of their work that proved it."

The students currently produce, write, film and edit morning announcements for WCAT along with other projects covering various school-related activities. The production of PSA's and a show for the Village's cable channel will provide 'real-life' experience and insight into producing a variety of shows.

"Wheeling High School is very proud to take part in the partnership with the Village," said Geist. "Our department continually strives to include opportunities for students to engage in "real world" experiences. This type of partnership is extremely unique and allows our students opportunities far beyond any high school media experience I have witnessed."

November's initial production meetings will focus on public safety announcements for the police and fire departments and gradually lead up to the inaugural video magazine show.

Village Hosts Blood Drive, Holidays Traditionally Busy Time For Blood Banks

Wheeling, Illinois - October 28, 2004 - The Village of Wheeling will be hosting a blood drive from 2 to 7 p.m. November 10, 2004 at the Fire Station on Dundee Road adjacent to the Village Hall. From Village Health Officer Mike Boyle: Recently I heard from a friend regarding a personal experience regarding blood transfusions. He told me, "You know how important I feel blood donation is, but it really hit home a little over a year ago when my wife needed 5 transfusions and more than 12 pints over the course of our daughters birth. Then, our daughter needed it off and on during her six-month stay in the hospital. Thanks to those who donated, both are doing well today." His experience truly reinforces the belief that when you donate blood today it may be the gift of life for someone tomorrow. You may not truly realize it when you make your donation, but the blood you give today will be there to help save someone's life tomorrow. In turn, if you ever require blood transfusions at some time in your life, and 50 percent of us will, it will be there for you because someone donated to save yours. Please plan on coming to our drive to donate. Appointments are greatly appreciated and aid us in anticipated the number of people that will attend so that we can properly staff the event. It also helps us to try and prevent too many people from showing up at the same time. If you are coming, but are not able to set an appointment, please call so that you can find out when the hours with the shorter waits will be. For appointments or to let us know that you will walk-in, please call Mike Boyle at (847) 459-2621 or e-mail him at mboyle@wheelingil.gov.

We hope to see you at the blood drive.

Neighborhood Resource Center Hosts Open House, Collects Coats

Wheeling, Illinois - October 20, 2004 - The Wheeling Police Department Crime Prevention Unit invites all residents to a Halloween Open House from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, October 30, 2004 at the Neighborhood Resource Center, 99 N. Wolf Road. This not-so-spooky event will feature child fingerprinting, identification photos, scary raffle prizes and apple cider with ghoulish snacks. Guests will also be treated to Halloween and Bicycle Safety Demonstrations, and visits from our Firefighters and McGruff the Crime Dog. Additionally, the Crime Prevention Unit will be unveiling and dedicating a mural painted by the Wheeling High School Art Department for the Neighborhood Resource Center.

During the Open House, the Crime Prevention Unit will be holding its annual used winter clothing giveaway (hats, scarves, gloves, etc) while supplies last for residents who may not be able to afford these items. Individuals who have winter clothing to donate can drop their items off at the Neighborhood Resource Center, 99 N.Wolf Road or at the Police Department Records Unit, 255 W. Dundee Road during normal business hours. This is a great opportunity to clean out your closets and help our residents in need stay warm this winter.

The open house and winter clothing giveaway would not be possible without the support of the Wheeling Citizens Police Academy Alumni Association and community contributions.

For more information regarding the open house or the winter clothing drive, contact Sgt. Pete Panagakis at (847) 459-2993

Pavilion Senior Center Hosts Inaugural Education Seminar, Understanding Depression: Myths & Moods

Wheeling, Illinois - October 5, 2004 - In an effort to combat the effects depression has on the senior community, the Pavilion Senior Center hosts its inaugural education seminar, Understanding Depression: Myths & Moods in Adults from 1 to 3 p.m. Friday, October 8 at the Center, 199 N. First Street, Wheeling. The free program features guest speakers Ravindra Chand, MD, NeuroPsychiatrist and Colleen Caron, RNC, MS, Older Adult Services Coordinator from Alexian Brother Behavioral Health Hospital. Seniors will have the opportunity to learn about signs and symptoms of depression, differential diagnosis between depression, grief and blues, incidence of depression in older adults, co-morbidity between depression and medical illnesses and the benefits of attending groups and seeking treatment. The program is free and depression screening will be available at the seminar. The program is the precursor to the Pavilion Senior Center's new depression support group, 'Freedom, Forgiveness and Fellowship,' which meets from 1 to 2 p.m. Friday, November 12 and ever subsequent 2nd Friday of the month. This group will be ongoing for older adults who suffer from depression, feel sad or unhappy at times in their lives. Helpful resources, medical updates and guest speakers will be featured. For more information, contact Jan Christiansen, Social Worker, at 847-459-2670.

Wheeling Fire Department, Senior Center Offer Drive-Thru Shots

Wheeling, Illinois - September 28, 2004 - The Pavilion Senior Center is teaming up with Cub Foods and the Wheeling Fire Department to offer a drive-thru flu and pneumonia shot clinic from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, October 9 at the Wheeling Fire Department. The clinic is available for individuals ages 14-years-old and older who are either physically disabled or who have difficulty with mobility.

"This clinic is ideal for individuals who have trouble getting around because the pharmacist and shot technician administer shots to individuals who remain in their vehicles," said Nancy Janssen, Director of Senior Services. In addition to the shots, individuals can have their blood pressure taken and receive Village-oriented information.

Cost is $20 for a flu shot and $30 for the pneumonia shot. Individuals who have Medicare B will not need to bring cash or a check as Cub Food will bill Medicare directly. Individuals without Medicare Part B will need to bring the appropriate payment (no charge cards accepted). For more information, contact the Pavilion Senior Center at 847-459-2670.

Bicycle and Pedestrian Safety Week Slated for Sept. 27 - Oct. 1

Wheeling, Illinois - September 22, 2004 -The Village of Wheeling, Wheeling Police Department Crime Prevention Unit and the Wheeling Bicycle and Pedestrian Task Force have partnered together to promote the inaugural Bike and Pedestrian Safety Week, September 27 thru October 1. The week is designed to place an emphasis on the potentially dangerous relationship between vehicle operators, bicyclists and pedestrians and how everyone can do more to increase safety measures.

According to Officer John Abbio, Wheeling Police Bicycle Unit, most of the accidents involving automobiles and cyclists could have been prevented. "The majority of the accidents involving bikes and automobiles that we respond to occur because one of the operators did something unpredictable such as darting across a street or failing to completely stop at a stop sign."

One organization responsible for creating the safety week has actually undertaken the year-round challenge of making Wheeling a friendlier biking/walking Village. The Bicycle & Pedestrian Task Force, consisting of citizens, police officers, Village and park district staff, is drafting a plan to make Wheeling safer for bikers and walkers as well as encourage more individuals to walk and bike. "We are already focusing on solutions that will improve the walking and cycling environment in our Village," said Steve Boime, Wheeling Bike & Pedestrian Task Force. "We invite anyone interested in creating this strategic plan to join us at 7 p.m. the third Wednesday of each month at the Wheeling Park District Community Center."

Officer Scott Laverd, Wheeling Police Bicycle Unit, indicated that the Wheeling Police Department will take advantage of the safety week to educate drivers, cyclists and walkers on the importance of respecting each other's right to the road. "During the week we will be stopping drivers and bikers who are seen operating in an unsafe manner and reminding them that they each have a responsibility share the road safely," Laverd said.

Wheeling Senior Center Hosts First Flea Market & Craft Fair

Wheeling, Illinois - September 2, 2003 - The Wheeling Pavilion Senior Center will be the site of the first Pavilion Flea Market and Craft Fair running from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. September 13 and 14. The event serves as one of the larger fund raisers used to offset program costs throughout the year.

"We invite everyone to come out and shop for treasures or rent a table and earn a little extra spending money for you," said Nancy Janssen, Director of Senior Citizen Services. Individuals can donate their items to the Pavilion Senior Center to be sold or reserve a table and sell the items themselves. Table rentals are $15 for one day or $25 for the entire weekend.

In addition to the unique retail opportunities, a lunch bar will be available to satisfy the appetite you'll develop perusing new and old items alike. "This is the first year for this event and we're hoping for a great turnout," Janssen said. "Our seniors have worked hard preparing for the weekend and I'm confident everyone who attends will not only have a great time, but be pleasantly surprised with the items for sale."

For more information on the event or to reserve table space, call the senior center at 847-459-2670.

Wheeling Police Crime-Free Multi-Housing Program Graduates 1st Class

Wheeling, Illinois – August 25, 2004 – The Wheeling Police Department’s inaugural Crime Free Multi-Housing class received their graduation certificates recently after completing the eight-hour course. The course is designed to align rental property owners, managers and leasing staff with the police and fire departments in an effort to keep illegal activities out of rental properties.

“It was extremely important to get the first group through the program so we could get word out to other rental properties in town,” said Sgt. Pet Panagakis, Crime Prevention Unit Supervisor. “Our first group of individuals was engaging and inquisitive and really enthusiastic about making their corner of the Village safer.”

The program is a three-tiered certification process that involves an 8-hour training course, visual inspection of the property to assess physical security and general appearance of the property and the hosting of a safety social that involves property management, residents and police personnel. The success of the program is based entirely on reducing criminal activity at participating properties.

“Although the training program was great, I was more impressed with the police department’s earnestness in building an ongoing partnership with us, even after the course was completed,” said Susan Porter, Foxboro Property Manager. “I would highly recommend every property manager in Wheeling take advantage of the resource provided by our police department.”

Throughout the certification process, the instructors focus on topics such as understanding crime prevention, common sense self defense, community rules regarding leases, combating crime problems, dealing with non-compliance and partnering with local police and fire personnel.

“The implementation of the procedures taught during the class is obviously important step towards achieving our goal of decreased crime,” Panagakis said. “We encourage the managers to create a Crime Free Lease Addendum which cites specific actions that will be taken by management should a resident, or somebody under a resident’s control, is involved in illegal or dangerous activity on or near the rental property. This step is important in that crime prevention measures are in place from the first day a potential resident walks in to sign a lease.”

For more information regarding the open house or the resource center, call 847-459-2679.

Wheeling Launches Streaming Video on Website

Wheeling, Illinois - August 25, 2004 - Individuals who want to take a closer look at Wheeling can now do so without driving to the northwest suburbs thanks to a promotional video the Village recently launched on its website, www.wheelingil.gov. The video, which features a welcome from President Greg Klatecki and highlights economic development, parks and recreation/education and shopping and dining was a collaborative effort between CGI Communications and the Village's Public Relations Department.

"It's an extremely creative and innovative way to promote our Village," said James Lang, Public Relations Coordinator. "It was a little challenging being that CGI [Communications] is based in Rochester, New York, but the end product speaks for itself and I am proud to have been a part of the team that produced the inaugural streaming video presentation."

The video is accessible to anyone with internet access and is powered by e-LocalLink Internet TV. Visitors to the Village's website can click on the streaming video icon on the homepage and be immediately taken to the production. The streaming video program automatically detects the visitor's computer and internet connection speeds and launches the video accordingly.

"It's fairly easy to access, even for individuals who might not use a computer that often," Lang added. "The video will change on a monthly basis as new chapters are added and/or updated as the Village continues to grow and evolve."

The cost of the video was completely subsidized by the sale of promotional banners featuring Wheeling businesses and organizations. Installation of the new banners began August 23 with scheduled completion by September 1, weather permitting.

"I am ecstatic with the video and the promotional capabilities are endless, especially as we add chapters throughout the year," said Klatecki. "It's just another example of how Wheeling is trying to continually improve and be more proactive in marketing ourselves….we have a lot to be proud of."

Wheeling Police Host Inaugural Youth Police Academy

Wheeling, Illinois – August 3, 2004 – The Wheeling Police Department hosts its inaugural Youth Police Academy for Wheeling students entering grades 6-8 this fall. The academy is slated to consist of five three-hour sessions beginning Saturday, August 28 and running through Saturday, September 11 (There will not be a session September 4 due to Labor Day).

“This youth academy is patterned after our extremely successful Citizens’ Police Academy with the intent to acquaint our youth with law enforcement’s role in the criminal justice system while providing an increased understanding of the tasks police officers face in our daily work,” said Sgt. Peter Panagakis, Crime Prevention Unit. “This will be the first youth academy and we’re striving to make it a mix of classroom and practical exercises that are pertinent to the environments these youth are in every day.”

The initial class will be an introduction and history of the Wheeling Police Department with the next four sessions covers field operations, tactical operations, investigations, crime scene processing, K-9, traffic and various other police topics. Instructors for each session will be officers from police personnel with years of training and real-life experiences in each specific subject.

“Because this program is made possible through a grant provided by the Local Law Enforcement Block Grant, there will be no cost to the participants,” Panagakis said.

Prospective students must fill out an application filled out and returned to the police department along with parental approval by August 21. Applications are available and can be returned to both the main Police Department, 255 W. Dundee Road and the Police Resource Center, 99 Wolf Rd. Applicants will be notified by the Crime Prevention Unit if selected.

For more information, contact Officer Dorann Swanson, Crime Prevention Unit, at 847-459-2679.

Wheeling Receives Excellence in Financial Reporting Award

Wheeling, Illinois – June 2, 2004 – The Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting has been awarded to the Village of Wheeling by the Government Finance Officers Association (GFOA) of the United States and Canada for its comprehensive annual financial report (CAFR). The Certificate of Achievement is the highest form of recognition in the area of governmental accounting and financial reporting, and its attainment represents a significant accomplishment by a government and its management.

“The Village was recognized because a lot of people were extremely diligent in ensuring financial responsibility was stressed throughout the entire fiscal year,” said Michael Mondschain, Finance Director. “I’m definitely like the manager of a world champion team; I may receive the ‘congratulatory’ letter from the GFOA, but my staff deserves all the credit for their attention to detail and professionalism.”

The CAFR was judged by an impartial panel to meet the high standards of the program including demonstrating a constructive ‘spirit of full disclosure’ to clearly communicate its financial story and motivate potential users and user groups to read the CAFR.

The GFOA is a nonprofit professional association serving approximately 15,000 government finance professionals with offices in Chicago and Washington, D.C.

Wheeling Pavilion Senior Center Hosts Annual Auction Fundraiser

Wheeling, Illinois – June 2, 2004 - The Wheeling Pavilion Senior Center hosts its annual auction fundraiser from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, June 5, 199 N. First Street, Wheeling. The auction features a home bakery, various raffles, luncheon bar and drawings for random prizes.

“This is definitely or biggest fundraiser of the year,” said Nancy Janssen, Director of Senior Services. “We serve over 800 individuals aged 55-years and up through a variety of programs, services and events and the money we make from our annual auction goes a long way towards ensuring we maintain our high-level of service to the community.”

This year’s event is co-sponsored by the Pavilion Advisory Council, American Enterprise Bank, Corus Bank and the Wheeling Countryside – Pioneer Press.

The Pavilion Senior Center is a home-away-from-home to over 800 area older adults who depend on the Pavilion programs to alleviate loneliness, provide supportive services and to offer opportunities for area seniors’ creativity that will help them remain productive and independent members of our community.

For more information, contact Nancy Janssen at 847-459-2670.

Dundee Road Pedestrian Overpass Construction Scheduled to Begin

Wheeling, Illinois – June 2, 2004 - The long awaited rehabilitation of the Dundee Road Pedestrian Overpass will begin during the week of June 7. Dundee Road will be closed the weekends of June 12/13 for demolition of the bridge and June 26/27 for the replacement of the superstructure. The closure will be from Schoenbeck Road to Elmhurst Road (IL RTE 83.) Traffic will be detoured on Schoenbeck Road/Hintz Road/Elmhurst Road. Construction is estimated for completion on August 20, 2004.

A Citizens Patrol member will be in front of the school directing the students to cross with the Crossing Guard at Schoenbeck Road.

If you have any questions, please contact the Engineering Department at 847-459-2985.

Village Begins Clean-Up Effort; Stresses Safety

Wheeling, Illinois – May 27, 2004 – According to Village of Wheeling officials, the Des Plaines River has crested below initial forecasts and will now begin receding. According to the National Weather Service, the river stabilized in Des Plaines at around 6 a.m. and was measured at approximately 3.52 feet above flood level.

Clean-up efforts will begin immediately and efforts to turn on electricity, gas and sewage systems in the Fox Point subdivision could begin as soon as today, water levels permitting. Village inspectors will begin inspecting any homes/buildings affected by the water to determine their habitability.

Displaced residents should not return to their homes until directly notified by Village officials. All Residents are reminded that the river and Wheeling draining ditch are still above flood levels and extremely dangerous and should not be used for recreational purposes.

“We recognize that the end results could have been a lot worse,” said James Lang, Public Relations Coordinator. “However, the river is still extremely dangerous and it will take several days before the water recedes. That being said, we thank our residents for their cooperation during this stressful period and cross our fingers that we’ve seen the most water we’re going to see for awhile.”

Special Olympic Fund Raiser Raises $7,000 for Local Athletes

Wheeling, Illinois – May 25, 2004 – The weekends excessively wet weather couldn’t dampen the spirits at the joint Wheeling/Buffalo Grove Police Department Special Olympics 2004 fundraiser May 22 at Kilcoyne’s in Wheeling. The event was a prelude to the annual Law Enforcement Torch Run scheduled for June 6.

Supporters turned out for the fundraiser, which featured a pig roast and raffle, despite the promise of occasional downpours. According to Bill Benson, Wheeling Police Commander, the event raised $7,000 for local Special Olympians. “The event was a huge success and it wouldn’t have happened without the generosity and support of Joe Kilcoyne [owner of Kilcoyne’s] and Mike Moran, who donated the pig,” Benson said. “The community really opened up their wallets and allowed us to raise $7,000 for Special Olympics.”

Special Olympics is the lone philanthropy supported by law enforcement agencies across Illinois. According to Steve Balinski, Buffalo Grove Police Chief, more than $2 million was raised last year utilizing grass roots fundraising efforts such as the pig roast. “We’ve been supporting Special Olympics and the Law Enforcement Torch Run for the past 16 years and all the effort is worth it because these athletes are really special people in our lives,” said Balinski. “We, as law enforcement professionals, really garner a sense of ownership regarding our support of Special Olympics and the athletes; it is an extremely rewarding partnership.”

Two athletes, Brian Hedlund of Hoffman Estates and Brett Benes of Wheeling, were on hand to meet some of their supporters and assist the two departments with raffle drawings. The athletes will be making the trip downstate to Illinois State University to compete in the Summer Games, June 11-13. A bowling fundraiser is scheduled for June 4 at Hawthorn Lanes in Vernon Hills starting at 6:30 p.m. This is the final fundraiser prior to the annual Torch Run which consists of law enforcement agencies running two-mile legs in their respective communities with the Special Olympics Torch and passing it to the next community. Wheeling’s contingent will receive the torch June 6.

The following businesses, organizations and individuals were instrumental in the success of this fundraiser: Wallace Construction, Market Square, Best Spa, Hackney’s, House of Rental, Chevy Chase Country Club, ADT Security, Town and Country, Anheuser Busch, Oak Terrace Beverage, Sysco, Sam’s Club, Gordon Food Service, Jerry’s Auto Body, Suburban Auto, Four Winds Golf Course, Hang Outs, Madden Communications, Hagg Press, Captain’s Quarters, AJ Services, Skokie Valley Beverage, Bailey, Banks & Biddle, Weld Mart, Old Munich Inn, Best Buy, Kilcoyne’s Redwood Inn, Cathy Austill and Mike Bledde of Vision Marketing.

Wheeling Police Department Honors  D.A.R.E. Graduates in Ceremony
 

Wheeling, Illinois – May 24, 2004 –The Wheeling Police Department honored more than 120 fifth graders at Walt Whitman Elementary School during a Drug Abuse Resistance Education [DARE] graduation ceremony May 21. Police Officer John Abbio, DARE Coordinator at Whitman School, presided over the program that recognized each graduate with a ‘diploma.’

“It is definitely a challenging course to teach in that the kids also have their usual school work, but I’ve run into kids who graduated from the program and years later they still remember everything they learned,” Abbio said. “I’m extremely proud to be affiliated with the program and hopefully the state won’t cut funding so extreme that it becomes extinct. We’ve already been informed that next year’s program will have to be reduced to 10 weeks.”

Ralph Cook, Whitman School Principal, was pleased with the students’ performances throughout the entire program. “It’s a really great opportunity to show them how much we value their work in the program. My hope is that they will carry these life lessons on into middle school and later on in life,” stated Cook.

DARE, founded in 1983, is a 17-week course that teaches kids skills to avoid involvement in drugs, gangs and violence. The police officer-led series focuses on techniques and lessons that will hopefully show students in grades Kindergarten-12th grade ways to resist peer pressure and live productive drug and violence-free lives.

For more information on DARE or any other Wheeling Police Department outreach program, call 847-459-2993.

Wheeling Police Department Hosts D.A.R.E, Graduation, Rockin' W/Cops

Wheeling, Illinois - May 17, 2004 -The Wheeling Police Department kicks off the weekend by hosting a D.A.R.E. Graduation at Walt Whitman Elementary School on Friday and keeps the party going by sponsoring one of its extremely popular Rockin' with the Cops events at the Wheeling Park District Community Center Saturday.

The graduates of the Drug Abuse Resistance Education program walk across the stage at 10 a.m. Friday, May 21 in the school's gymnasium, according to Police Officer and D.A.R.E. liaison John Abbio. "This is an exciting event for the kids and the department because there are countless departments and communities across the state that have had to cut the program," Abbio stated. "We believe strongly in the program and are committed to not only educating the kids about the dangers of drugs while they are in school, but reminding them that 'just saying no' should be a lifetime decision."

The weekend continues with a 'Rockin' with the Cops' youth outreach event that runs from 7 to 10 p.m. Saturday, May 22 at the Wheeling Park District Community Center, 333 W. Dundee Road. The event is designed to give area fifth, sixth and seventh grade students an opportunity to hang out with officers in a social environment. "We started this event last year to allow us [Wheeling Police Officers] an opportunity to not only provide a fun night of games, eating and swimming for the kids, but to really interact with these kids in an unofficial capacity," said Sgt. Pete Panagakis, Crime Prevention Unit. "The kids get to see us as normal people who like to hang out and have fun; not just as individuals in uniform enforcing the rules."

The event is held in conjunction with a grant from the Local Law Enforcement Block Grant [LLEBG] of Cook County. The LLEBG was provided by President John H. Stroger, Jr. and the Cook County Board of Commissioners and the Judicial Advisory Council. This project was supported by the Bureau of Justice Assistance, Office of Justice Programs. "The entire evening is free of charge," Panagakis said. "The kids can enjoy pizza and soda, we'll have a DJ, the indoor aquatic facility will be available and I'm sure there will be some spirited games of basketball and volleyball taking place throughout the night."

Due to an overwhelming response last year, the program is limited to the first 350 kids who sign up. Registration and waiver forms are available at Holmes and London Middle Schools and Wheeling Grade Schools and should be turned into the respective Wheeling Police School Officers or homeroom teachers.

For more information, call 847-459-2993.

Senior Celebration Day Scheduled for Wednesday, May 12, 2004

Wheeling, Illinois — May 4, 2004 — The Wheeling Pavilion Senior Center invites and encourages Wheeling-area seniors to participate in the 16th Annual Senior Celebration Day from 9:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Wednesday, May 12 at the Randhurst Shopping Center in Mount Prospect.

Free health screenings and testing for a variety of health issues including hearing, glaucoma, blood pressure, pulmonary function, stress and oral cancer will begin at 9:30 and run throughout the day. In addition, live entertainment, voter registration, fire and crime prevention safety tips and a variety of senior services informational booths will be available for participants. This year’s special guest speaker is Jesse White, Illinois Secretary of State. Complimentary refreshments from the Egg Factory and Trader Joe’s will be provided for the first 500 people and hourly prize drawings will be held throughout the event.

Bus transportation is available, but reservations must be made by calling the Wheeling Township at 847-259-7743. A $2 donation is requested for bus service. 

For information, call the Wheeling Pavilion Senior Center at 847-459-2670.

Dundee Road East and West Bound To Be Closed For Construction

Wheeling, Illinois – April 20, 2004 - The Village of Wheeling has been informed by Metra that Dundee Road will be closed at the railroad track crossing due to construction [Dundee & Northgate] beginning at 6 a.m. Tuesday, April 27 and is scheduled to remain closed until May 11, weather permitting. The construction is part of Metra’s Capital Improvement Plan that calls for double tracking of the railway up through Antioch, IL. A detour route utilizing Dundee Road, Elmhurst Road, Hintz Road, and Milwaukee Avenue back to Dundee Road (both directions) has been proposed.

As Dundee is obviously a major thoroughfare for both morning and afternoon rush hours, commuters are advised to adjust their travel schedules for the duration of the construction.

For more information, contact the IHC Construction Field Office in Des Plaines at 847-759-1386.

Wheeling Fire Chief Receives Wayne Leucht Memorial Award
 

Wheeling, Illinois – March 29, 2004 – The Northern Illinois Chapter of the National Fire Sprinkler Association and the Illinois Fire Prevention Association recently named Wheeling Fire Chief Keith MacIsaac the fifth recipient of the NFSA’s Wayne Leucht Memorial Award.

The award is named for fallen firefighter Wayne Leucht, Fire Inspector from the Northbrook Fire Department and was created to recognize members of the local fire service who personify the spirit and dedication of the fire service. The recipients are also recognized for their efforts to increase the use and knowledge of the life and property-saving benefits of fire sprinklers in their communities.

“We are very happy to recognize and applaud Keith’s professionalism and dedication to the fire service,” said Don Smith, Chairman of the Northern Illinois Chapter of the NFSA. “Because of Keith’s dedication and hard work, Wheeling is first on the Illinois list of fire-safe municipalities.”

“I’m honored to receive this award,” MacIsaac said. “I knew Wayne for many years and he was a great guy who had a passion and special way of getting his point across.” MacIsaac is only the fifth fire professional chosen by the NFSA for the memorial award. He will receive the award along with a $2,500 donation to the charity of his choice at the Ninth Annual Illinois Burn Prevention Invitational at the Glen Flora Country Club in Waukegan, June 7.

Village Announces Availability of 10th Annual Community Scholarship

Wheeling, Illinois - March 5, 2004 - Village President Greg Klatecki is pleased to announce the availability of the 10th Annual Community Scholarship in cooperation with the Northwest Municipal Conference and the Workforce Board of Northern Cook County. As a result of a joint scholarship development campaign in the business community, the Village was provided with funds to award a scholarship(s) to pursue educational training, upgrading or retraining. "We're honored to partner with the NWMC and Workforce Board of Northern Cook County to provide our young people the opportunity to pursue their dreams via education," said President Klatecki. A President's Committee will select the scholarship winner(s). The scholarship(s) can be applied toward tuition, books and any other commensurate educational expenses.

The candidate must be: a resident of Wheeling; a United States citizen or permanent resident; demonstrate financial need; be a first-time, continuing or returning student and take coursework at an approved Illinois educational institution. Additional information regarding the eligibility and selection criteria for the scholarship is included with the application. Applications are available at Village Hall, 255 W. Dundee and on the Village's website. Completed applications must be returned to Village Hall by 3 p.m. April 30, 2004.

Wheeling Special Events Commission Hosts Annual Spaghetti Dinner

Wheeling, Illinois - March 2, 2004 - The Village of Wheeling Special Events Commission holds its annual all-you-can-eat spaghetti dinner fundraiser from 2 to 6 p.m., March 28 at the AmVets Post #66, 700 Old McHenry Road, Wheeling. Proceeds help offset the cost of special events such as the July 4th Celebration and Taste of Wheeling.

The dinner consists of spaghetti and meatballs, salad, garlic bread and dessert and only costs $7 with children 5-years-old and younger eat for free. Tickets are only available at the door. The Commission sends a special thanks to Joe Mastrototaro and his staff at Wa-Pa-Ghetti's Pizza for once again catering the event and Market Square Restaurant for donating dessert.

For more information, contact Elaine Simpson, Special Events Commissioner, at 847-541-8692.

Village of Wheeling Hosts Community Blood Drive

Wheeling, Illinois - February 26, 2004 - The Village of Wheeling will be hosting a blood drive from 2 to 7 p.m. March 10, 2004 at the Fire Station on Dundee Road adjacent to the Village Hall.

Recently I heard from a friend who received his two-gallon donor pin from LifeSource. He told me, "You know how important I feel blood donation is, but it really hit home a little over a year ago when my wife needed 5 transfusions and more than 12 pints over the course of our daughters birth. Then, our daughter needed it off and on during her six-month stay in the hospital. Thanks to those who donated, both are doing well today. In fact, the other day we were out shopping and happened upon a mobile blood drive and we both donated."

You may not truly realize it when you make your donation, but the blood you give today will be there to help save someone's life tomorrow. In turn, if you ever require blood transfusions at some time in your life, and 50 percent of us will, it will be there for you because someone donated to save yours.

Appointments are greatly appreciated for our blood drive and aid us in anticipating the number of people that will attend so that LifeSource can properly staff the event. It also helps us prevent too many people from showing up at the same time which has created long wait times periodically in the past. If you plan on donating but are unable to set an appointment, please call so that you can find out when the hours with the shorter waits will be. For appointments or to let us know that you will walk-in, please call Mike Boyle at (847) 459-2621 or e-mail him at mboyle@wheelingil.gov.

Wheeling Receives Distinguished Budget Presentation Award

Wheeling, Illinois - January 8, 2004 - The Government Finance Officers Association of the United States and Canada (GFOA) recently awarded the Village of Wheeling with the GFOA's Distinguished Budget Presentation Award for its budget. The award represents a significant achievement for Wheeling as it reflects the commitment of the Village Board and staff to meet the highest principles of governmental budgeting. The recognition was for the Village's fiscal year that began May 1, 2003.

"We are obviously pleased and proud to be recognized by the GFOA for our efforts in creating and maintaining a fiscally responsible budget," said Mike Mondschain, Village of Wheeling Finance Director. "This is the 17th consecutive year the Village has been recognized and only four organizations throughout the entire state have received this award more consecutive years than Wheeling."

Wheeling had to satisfy nationally recognized guidelines for effective budget presentation to be considered for the award. The GFOA determines how the overall budget serves as a policy document, financial plan, operations guide and communications device and must deem each component 'proficient.'

Since the inception of the GFOA's Distinguished Budget Presentation Awards Program in 1984, approximately 900 organizations have been honored. This awards program is the only national awards program in governmental budgeting.

Wheeling Residents Provide Spirit of Holidays for Needy Kids

Wheeling, Illinois - December 22, 2003 - Two members of the United States Marine Corps Reserve showed up at Wheeling's Village Hall last week and did a quick double take. Three boxes had grown to six and the overflow of toys extended down the hall. In the true spirit of the holidays, the residents and businesses of Wheeling had proved the economy was no match for the compassion of the human spirit.

"The toys started to accumulate about 10 days ago and within the last five days we were creating our own storage containers out of old computer boxes," said James Lang, Public Relations Coordinator. "It's impossible to place a price tag on the amount of caring and selflessness those boxes contained. Being involved with the Marine Corps Reserve's Toys for Tots program really helps instill the meaning of the season and dissolve some of the cynicism and commercialism that accompanies this time of year."

Lang went on to say that more than 3,000 toys were donated during this year's campaign which ran from late October until December 18.

"I realize a heartfelt and humble thank you is a little contrite considering the amount of toys we collected, but on behalf of the Village President, Board of Trustees and staff…….thank you Wheeling."

Over the past 13 years, the Toys for Tots program has distributed an average of 9.9 million toys to 4.6 million needy children annually. Last year, more than 34,000 needy children in the Northern Chicago Zone received toys thanks to the efforts demonstrated by the people of Wheeling.

Wheeling Hosts 3rd Community Workshop for Metra Station Area Land-Use Study

Wheeling, Illinois - December 3, 2003 - The Village of Wheeling Metra Station Area Planning Study Project Committee met for what could have been the final time Tuesday evening at the Wheeling Park District Community Center. The committee, comprised of elected and appointed Village officials, Village staff, Park District representatives and local business leaders, has been working with consultants, the Regional Transit Authority, PACE and Metra on a land-use study around the Metra Station since July.

At a September public hearing, S.B. Friedman & Company, lead consultant, sub-consultants The Lakota Group and the Metro Transportation Group presented draft plans and strategies that resulted from the initial workshop conducted in July. The September "listening workshop" sought feedback, ideas and opinions from Village officials and staff, local business owners and organizations, developers, community organizations and residents on the recommended development opportunities and transit oriented district strategies for this study area. Input that was received was implemented into the proposed plan and presented to the committee Tuesday night. The Village Board recently approved a TIF district that encompasses the study area and is designed to support the plan. Village staff hopes to begin utilizing this initiative for development planning around the Metra train station soon.

"This plan is the result of a lot of cooperation and hard work between the committee, RTA, Pace, Metra, concerned residents, business leaders and our consultants," said Bill Whitmer, Director of Economic Development for the Village of Wheeling. "We're extremely pleased with the plan and hope to begin implementing it soon."

According to the committee, the plan is designed to be a 25-year outline for development focusing on the area surrounding the Metra train station.

"Good things happen when people work together for a common goal," said Greg Klatecki, Village of Wheeling President. "I'd especially like to thank the RTA for awarding us the grant that allowed us to create this plan."

Wheeling Officials Host Annexation Meetings

Wheeling, Illinois - November 6, 2003 - The Village of Wheeling will host three information meetings for property owners affected by impending annexations. All affected property owners will receive a letter from the Village verifying their address to be within the annexation borders. The first meeting is 5 p.m. November 11 in the Village Hall Council Chambers, 255 W. Dundee Road. Subsequent meetings occur at 10 a.m. November 18 at Palwaukee Municipal Airport and 7 p.m. that same day in the Village Hall Council Chambers. Key staff members will be available to answer questions and provide information on police, fire, public works and other Village services that will provided upon annexation into the Village of Wheeling.

The Village Board will consider the annexations at 7:30 p.m. December 8 at the regularly scheduled Board meeting in Village Hall Council Chambers. The annexations are being considered under Section 7-1-13 of the Illinois Municipal Code.

Village Kicks Off Holiday Season With Annual 'Festival of Lights'

Wheeling, Illinois - November 4, 2003 - The Wheeling Special Events Commission invites the residents of Wheeling to kick off this year's holiday season with the 7th annual Festival of Lights Celebration.  This year's event begins at 6 p.m. November 23 at Village Hall, 255 W. Dundee Road.

The Holmes Middle School Chorus will perform seasonal selections and revelers can enjoy hot chocolate and cookies donated by Market Square Restaurant. There will also be a special visit by Mr. and Mrs. Claus who will hear all the childrens' wishes for their holiday season.

The grand event is the official lighting of the Village with more than 75,000 lights being turned on in the village at the same time. Lights at Village Hall, Friendship Park Fountain, and along Lake-Cook Road and Milwaukee Avenue will be lit simultaneously......at least that is the plan. In addition, the Wheeling Park District will coordinate its lighting with the Village. New holiday decor will also adorn the fountain and be unveiled that day.  For more information, call 847-459-2666, ext. 4107.

Wheeling Officials Outline TIF Guidelines

Wheeling, Illinois - October 30, 2003 - The Village will host a public hearing November 10 regarding the formation of a Tax Increment Financing District surrounding the Metra train station. The hearing will take place prior to the regularly scheduled Village Board Meeting at 7:30 p.m. in Village Hall Council Chambers, 255 W. Dundee Road. The new TIF would encompass the municipal buildings on Dundee Road and extend west of the Metra train tracks past Elmhurst Road and east of the tracks to the Wheeling drainage ditch.

Village officials conducted a joint review board meeting in early October to inform representatives from the library, park district, schools and other taxing bodies on how the TIF could affect them.

In a TIF, the Village can freeze the amount of property taxes paid to local taxing bodies for 23 years. Properties still pay increases in property taxes, but money generated by appreciation in property value in the district can be used to pay for improving properties within the district.

"The hearing allows residents both within and outside the proposed TIF district the opportunity to voice their opinions or simply learn more about the Village's plans," said Mark Rooney, Assistant to the Village Manager.

Wheeling Asks Residents to Help Others During Holiday Season

Wheeling, Illinois - October 30, 2003 - As the holiday months rush at us like the toy train lapping the tree, it is important to remember that while the holidays are joyous for most, they are also difficult for many. That said, as you count down shopping days and hang lights imitating the Griswold home in 'Christmas Vacation,' the Village would like to ask your support of two programs that would help less fortunate individuals have a brighter holiday.

The Village is once again partnering with the United States Marine Corps Reserve to ensure that every child 'has a little Christmas.' Individuals are encouraged to drop off new, unwrapped toys in the front lobby of Village Hall, 255 W. Dundee Road, and at Bill Stasek Chevrolet, 700 W. Dundee Road beginning October 20 and continuing until December 18. Over the past 13 years, the Toys for Tots program has distributed an average of 9.9 million toys to 4.6 million needy children annually. Last year, more than 34,000 needy children in the Northern Chicago Zone received toys thanks to people just like you; let's do our part again this year.

Another program the Village is supporting this year is the Merlin Muffler and Brake Snug Hugs for Kids. For 12 years, Merlin's has been collecting new and like-new, as well as hand-made winter clothing that is donated to Children's Home and Aid Society of Illinois. Since its inception, the Snug Hugs for Kids program has donated more than 150 tons of winter clothing to needy families.

This year's drive takes place from November 1 through December 10 and individuals are asked to take items directly to the Merlin Muffler & Brake Shop located at 90 Old McHenry Road. The Village thanks you for your support and wishes you and yours many happy returns for your kindness.

Wheeling Fire Department Presented With Safety Award 
 

Wheeling, Illinois - October 30, 2003 - The Wheeling Fire Department has been presented with a Life Safety Achievement Award for 2002 by the Residential Fire Safety Institute (RFSI) as announced by Roy L. Marshall, Director for the RFSI.

For 10 years, the Life Safety Achievement Award has recognized the local fire prevention activities that contributed to reducing the number of lives lost in residential fires. Wheeling qualified for this award because it recorded zero fire deaths in structures during that respective calendar year. Although residential fires in the United States account for only 20 percent of all fires, they result in 80 percent of all fire deaths. The RFSI is committed to reducing that number.

“Experience tells us that fire prevention activity and public education can significantly reduce life and property loss from residential fires,” Marshall stated. “The Life Safety Achievement Award recognizes fire departments for their fire prevention efforts and encourages them to continually improve those efforts.”

“I salute the entire department for a job well done and thank the RFSI for recognizing the pride we take in keeping Wheeling safe,” said Keith MacIsaac, Fire Chief. “It’s always nice to be patted on the back and especially when the award recognizes that no lives were lost due to fire in Wheeling in 2002.”

Spratt Named Public Works Director

Wheeling, Illinois - October 30, 2003 - F. Wallace Douthwaite, Village Manager, announced that Charles Spratt has been named to the position of Public Works Director, effective October 16. Spratt had been the acting director since August 18. Spratt is no stranger to the Wheeling Public Works department, having come on board in November 1995 as a Fleet Services Supervisor. He was promoted to the Building and Fleet Services Supervisor in November 1999 when the Building Maintenance and Fleet Services Divisions were combined. "Chuck is an extremely skilled Public Works professional, obviously familiar with the Village and has the respect of the men and women in our PW Department," Douthwaite said. "He is the right man for the job."

Village of Wheeling Hosts Community Blood Drive

Wheeling, Illinois - October 30, 2003 - The Village of Wheeling Board of Health is pleased to announce that it is hosting a blood drive with LifeSource Blood Services from 2 to 7 p.m. November 12 in the bays of the fire station at Village Hall, 255 West Dundee Road.

If you want to participate in the blood drive, please contact Village Health Officer Michael Boyle at (847) 459-2621 or via e-mail at mboyle@wheelingil.gov to schedule an appointment for donating. If you cannot commit to a time, letting us know that you will be a walk-in will still enable us to plan for sufficient staff to operate the drive efficiently. In either case, please do not hesitate to stop by and donate.

Before coming to the drive, be certain that you eat a solid breakfast and lunch during the day. Also drink plenty of non-caffeinated beverages as well. It has been recommended that by drinking plenty of water in the days leading to the drive that veins become fuller and make the blood donation process easier.

Wheeling Proclaims October 25 as 'Make a Difference Day'

Wheeling, Illinois – October 17, 2003 - In conjunction with Gov. Rod Blagojevich’s dedication and commitment to volunteerism, The Village of Wheeling will mark October 25 as ‘Make a Difference Day.’ Following the lead of the governor, President Greg Klatecki has signed an official proclamation celebrating volunteer efforts throughout Wheeling and the State of Illinois.

‘Make a Difference Day’ is our nation’s largest single day of volunteering. The event is sponsored by USA Weekend magazine in partnership with the Points of Light Foundation and takes place on the fourth Saturday of every October. Last year, more than 3 million people volunteered accomplishing thousands of projects in hundreds of towns and helping more than 25 million people.

“Volunteering comes in many shapes and forms,” said James Lang, Public Relations Coordinator. “Volunteer efforts encompass everything from coat drives and eyeglass collection points to river clean-ups and neighborhood projects like the recent Paint-a-Thon. Although we ‘officially’ celebrate the spirit of the volunteer on October 25, we should all make an effort throughout the year to help those who need it.”

Wheeling Affected by Refuse Collection Strike

Wheeling, Illinois - October 1, 2003 If the Teamsters Local 731 and 301 representing employees of refuse collection companies continue to proceed with a strike, garbage collection in the Village of Wheeling will be impacted. The Village contracts with Waste Management for its refuse and recycling collection. The Union announced the strike October 1, 2003.

Village officials will stay in contact with Waste Management representatives on a daily/hourly basis. If the strike continues, refuse collection will not occur on regularly scheduled pick-up days. If the strike were to be settled within the next 48 hours, pick up could extend to the following day(s).

"We've been monitoring the situation involving a potential strike and Village staff has devised contingency plans should the strike have any substantial duration," said Greg Klatecki, Village President. "Obviously, we're hoping the strike will be resolved quickly and we won't have to enact these plans."

During this work stoppage, residents are encouraged to pay special attention to their garbage and recycle as much of the material as possible. Using containers with tightly fitting lids and attempting to minimize the number of trash bags needed to dispose of your home's waste will reduce the refuse nuisance caused by the strike. Do not leave recyclables, yard waste or refuse at the curb. When the strike is over, normal garbage pickup will resume.

During the strike, the Village will continue to investigate contingency plans to protect resident public health and safety. To voice your concerns regarding the strike, please contact Waste Management at 847-520-0059. Residents can access strike updates as they are made available via the Village's website, www.wheelingil.gov, cable channel 17 and/or by calling 847-459-2666 extension 4200.

Wheeling Hosts 2nd Annual Community Workshop for Metra Station Area Land-Use Study

Wheeling, Illinois - September 8, 2003 - The Village of Wheeling invites the public to participate in the second community workshop regarding the Metra station land use plan at 7:30 p.m. Tuesday, September 23 at the Wheeling Park District, 333 W. Dundee Road, Rooms 204-205.

At the workshop, the consultants will present draft plans and strategies that resulted from the initial workshop conducted several weeks ago. This will be a "listening workshop" in which the consultant team will present the draft plans and strategies for review and feedback from workshop participants. According to Bill Whitmer, Wheeling's Director of Economic Development, the objective of this meeting is to achieve consensus from a variety of participants including Village officials and staff, local business owners and organizations, developers, community organizations and residents on the recommended development opportunities and transit oriented district strategies for this study area. A subsequent draft concept plan will be developed utilizing the input derived from the review workshop.

The Village is conducting this land-use study via a grant from the Regional Transportation Authority's Regional Technical Assistance Program. The public workshop will be led by S.B. Friedman & Company, lead consultant, sub-consultants The Lakota Group and Metro transportation Group and Village Metra Station Area Planning Study Project Committee.

Wheeling Pauses in Remembrance of Victims of 9-11-01 Attacks

Wheeling, Illinois - September 4, 2003 - The Village of Wheeling will pause to remember the victims of the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks at 8 a.m. September 11 in front of Village Hall, 255 W. Dundee Road.

The Wheeling Police and Fire chaplain will deliver a memorial message followed by a wreath-laying ceremony by President Greg Klatecki and the Village trustees. In addition, a trumpeter from Wheeling High School will be on hand to render taps as the Village observes a moment of silence. The public is invited to attend.

Prior to the memorial, President Klatecki will sign an official 'Day of Remembrance' proclamation at the regularly scheduled September 8 Board meeting.

"We planned a memorial with no fanfare in order to focus on the solemnity of the anniversary," said James Lang, Public Relations Coordinator. "Obviously, this is a date that is forever etched in America's mind, reminiscent of Pearl Harbor or Kennedy's assassination. Each of us who are old enough remembers where we were and what we were doing when those aircraft struck the World Trade Center, Pentagon and the field in Pennsylvania. We [the Village of Wheeling] simply want to join Americans everywhere in remembering and reflecting on one of the darkest hours that ever occurred on United States soil."

Wheeling Pavilion Center Host First Annual Flea Market and Craft Fair

Wheeling, Illinois - September 2, 2003 - The Wheeling Pavilion Senior Center will be the site of the first Pavilion Flea Market and Craft Fair running from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. September 13 and 14. The event serves as one of the larger fund raisers used to offset program costs throughout the year.

"We invite everyone to come out and shop for treasures or rent a table and earn a little extra spending money for you," said Nancy Janssen, Director of Senior Citizen Services. Individuals can donate their items to the Pavilion Senior Center to be sold or reserve a table and sell the items themselves. Table rentals are $15 for one day or $25 for the entire weekend.

In addition to the unique retail opportunities, a lunch bar will be available to satisfy the appetite you'll develop perusing new and old items alike. "This is the first year for this event and we're hoping for a great turnout," Janssen said. "Our seniors have worked hard preparing for the weekend and I'm confident everyone who attends will not only have a great time, but be pleasantly surprised with the items for sale."

For more information on the event or to reserve table space, call the senior center at 847-459-2670.

Wheeling High School Recognized for Exemplary Seat Belt Use

Wheeling, Illinois – August 21, 2003 – Wheeling High School representative will receive  recognition awards from both the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) at the 7:30 p.m. August 25 Village of Wheeling Board Meeting at Village Hall, 255 W. Dundee Road.  Wheeling High School earned the dual-recognition for achieving a high seat belt use compliance rate during a recent  ‘Buckle Up America High School Challenge.’ The students were surveyed in June following the May ‘Click It or Ticket’ mobilization campaign and had an 88 percent compliance rate.  

That two-week campaign was coordinated with the State and National ‘Click It or Ticket’ program and concluded with officers conducting a ‘Seat Belt Enforcement Zone’ in late May in front of Wheeling High School on Route 83. “This is a well-earned and deserved recognition for Wheeling High School ; the students, their parents and the administration should be very proud,” said John Popadowski, Chief of Police. “It’s very gratifying to see our young people embracing something that seems so simple, but is proven to save lives.”

Safety Programs like these are funded by the Wheeling Safe Communities Program with a grant from the Illinois Department of Transportation, Division of Traffic Safety.

Wheeling Hosts Community Input Workshop for Metra Station Area Land Use-Study

Wheeling, Illinois - July 9, 2003 - The Village of Wheeling takes the next step in developing its land-use plan for the area surrounding its Metra Station by hosting a community workshop at 7:30 p.m. Wednesday, July 16 in the council chambers room at 255 W. Dundee Road. The Village is conducting this study via a grant from the Regional Transportation Authority's Regional Technical Assistance Program. The public workshop will be led by S.B. Friedman & Company, lead consultant, sub-consultants The Lakota Group and Metro Transportation Group and Village Metra Station Area Planning Study Project Committee.

The workshop is designed to determine goals and objectives of the study from a variety of participants including Village officials and staff, local business owners and organizations, developers, community organizations and residents. This will be a "listening workshop" in which the consultant team will obtain input from participants regarding what they do and do not want included in the station area plan. Depending on attendance, the workshop will be conducted in either a round-robin or sub-group format. "Essentially, we're hoping to gain firsthand knowledge from the people who live and work in and/or near the study area, as well as individuals who utilize the services and businesses that exist in the target area," said Bill Whitmer, Director of Economic Development. "By working together we can form opinions and insights that will help guide the consultant team in its analysis."

The development of the land-use plan began several months ago with a kick-off meeting that outlined the focus area. The approximately 145-acre study area targeted for development includes the area immediately surrounding the station south to the Heritage Lake Tributary and west over the rail tracks to the ComEd high lines. In addition, portions of Dundee Road from east of Northgate Park to the east to the London Middle School east property line on the west; and an area north of Dundee Road to the Wheeling drainage ditch.

Wheeling Police Commander Graduates From FBI National Academy

Wheeling, Illinois - June 20, 2003 - Wheeling Police Commander John Stone recently joined an extremely elite group of law enforcement professionals when he graduated from the FBI National Academy Program t Quantico, Virginia. Stone was one of 234 law enforcement officers from 49 states, the District of Columbia, 20 international countries, three military organizations and four federal civilian organizations to complete the rigorous 10-week course.

Stone joined the Wheeling Police Department in November, 1977. He attained the rank of sergeant in 1989 and commander in 1996 and is currently in charge of the Patrol Division consisting of the Traffic and Tactical Units. According to John Popadowski, Chief of Police, the selection process is extremely competitive.

"Officers nominated to attend the academy undergo an extensive background check and interview process," Popadowski stated. "Admission is very limited with only one-half of one percent of law enforcement officers worldwide invited to attend. Obviously, we are extremely proud of John, his accomplishment and value his contributions to the department and the community."

Internationally known for its academic excellence, the National Academy Program, held at the FBI Academy, offers 10 weeks of advanced investigative, management and fitness training for selected officers having proven records as professionals within their respective agencies. Training for the program is provided by FBI Academy instructional staff, Special Agents and other staff members holding advanced degrees, many of whom are recognized internationally in their fields of expertise.

Since its inception in July, 1935, only 36,519 law enforcement professionals worldwide have graduated from the prestigious school.

'Click It or Ticket’ Campaign Results in Increased Awareness

Wheeling , Illinois – June 19, 2003 – In conjunction with the National ‘Click It or Ticket’ initiative, the Wheeling Police Department conducted its own awareness campaign recently.  This initiative included school speed zone/seat belt enforcement during daytime hours, DUI/seat belt enforcement during nighttime hours, a Roadside Safety Checkpoint over Memorial Day weekend, and a Seat Belt Enforcement Zone May 31 towards the end of the statewide campaign.  659 citations and written warnings were issued including 443 for seat belt violations, 9 for child restraint violations and 83 speeding violations.  31 arrests were made including 8 for DUI, 18 for suspended/revoked or no drivers license, three for drug possession and two wanted on warrants.

“It was an extremely successful campaign,” said John Popadowski, Wheeling Police Chief. “Through the combined efforts of the Police Department, participating schools and citizens we were able to convey the importance of seat belt use and not driving if you’ve been drinking.”

  Three local schools participated in awareness efforts for this campaign and contributed to substantial increases in safety belt compliance rates at all three sites.  Based on Seat Belt Surveys taken this week, Walt Whitman School increased compliance to 76 percent while Mark Twain School was surveyed at 84 percent compliance.  Of special interest is Wheeling High School , which increased its compliance rate to 88 percent from 71 percent the year before.

“These results are not only indicative of our enforcement, but also the dedicated efforts of students and staff at the high school who promoted this campaign with morning video announcements and public service announcements developed and filmed by students in the video department,” said Tom Pilewski, Wheeling Police Safe Communities Coordinator. “We’re greatly appreciative and thank them for their support.”  

Wheeling Police Reminds To ‘Click It or Ticket’;  Don't Drink and Drive

Wheeling, Illinois – May 14, 2003 – The Wheeling Police Department will conduct a two-week School Speed Zone and Seat Belt use enforcement effort beginning Monday, May 19. 

The two-week campaign is coordinated with the State and National ‘Click It or Ticket’ program and will conclude with officers conducting a ‘Seat Belt Enforcement Zone’ on Saturday, May 31 in front of Wheeling High School on Route 83. “It’s a fact that seat belts save lives,” said John Popadowski, Chief of Police. “The ‘Seat Belt Enforcement Zone’ serves as a reminder that not only is it imperative you wear your seat belt for your safety, it is also the law.”

This is the second time the enforcement zone concept will be utilized in Wheeling to create greater awareness about safety belt use and enforce compliance under the Village’s Seat Belt ordinance. 

In addition to the ‘Click it or Ticket’ campaign, officers will conduct a Roadside Safety Checkpoint (RSC) beginning at approximately 10 p.m. Friday, May 23 and lasting until approximately 2 a.m. Saturday, May 24. The primary focus of this event will be DUI enforcement but all other Illinois Vehicle Codes will be enforced as well.

The RSC intentionally coincides with the kickoff of Memorial Day weekend. “Unfortunately, the first holiday of summer has become marked by increased numbers of impaired drivers, traffic crashes, injuries and fatalities both locally and nationwide,” Popadowski stated. “It’s a simple message, and one that we preach on a daily basis not just holidays; if you drink, don’t drive.” Additional DUI selective enforcement patrols have also been scheduled during the entire holiday weekend.

Safety Programs like these are funded by the Wheeling Safe Communities Program with a grant from the Illinois Department of Transportation, Division of Traffic Safety.

Wheeling Senior Center Seeks Volunteer Computer Teachers

Wheeling, Illinois - May 9, 2003 The Village of Wheeling's Pavilion Senior Center seeks volunteers to assist with its extremely popular SeniorNet computer classes. The classes, begun in September 2002, are designed to teach area seniors how to use personal computers.

Due to the popular demand of these classes, the Center needs additional volunteers who will be trained as coaches and instructors. "Volunteers need to have some computer skills, particularly with mouse and keyboard use," said Nancy Janssen, Director of Senior Citizen Services. An information workshop will be conducted at 10 a.m. June 7 to answer any questions potential volunteers may have.

For more information on the SeniorNet program or to inquire about volunteering, call 847-459-2670.

Wheeling Plan Commission Hosts 5th Annual 'Brooms and Blooms'

Wheeling, Illinois - May 7, 2003 - The Wheeling Plan Commission is seeking a few good volunteers to help brighten up the Village in its annual Blooms and Brooms spring clean-up. Participants will gather at Village Hall at 8 a.m. Saturday, May 17 and remove debris from Milwaukee Ave. and then plant flowers at various Village garden sites and key entry points.

This is the fifth year the Plan Commission has solicited volunteers to assist public works employees in cleaning and planting 'high profile' garden locations throughout the Village. "This is a great opportunity for residents to interact with Village officials and employees while knowing they are making a difference in the appearance of their community," said Ken Brady, Plan Commission Chairman.

According to David Kowal, Assistant Director of Public Works, all of the materials including tools, dirt, fertilizer and of course the flowers are provided by the Village for the annual event. In addition, the volunteers are treated to a cookout courtesy of the Plan Commission once the plantings are complete.

As an added feature, the Wheeling Garden Club will hold its annual plant sale that morning from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. in front of Village Hall, 255 W. Dundee Rd. Various types of annuals, hanging baskets, perennials, herbs and vegetables will be on sale.

For more information on volunteering for the event or the Wheeling Garden Club, contact Ken Brady at 847-537-8642.

McHenry Road, Southbound, Closed for Construction

Wheeling, Illinois - May 6, 2003 - The Wheeling Police Department announces that McHenry Road, southbound, will be closed from 5 a.m. to 6 p.m. Friday, May 9 due to road construction/concrete pouring. Only northbound traffic will be permitted to traverse McHenry Road between Lake-Cook Road and Elmhurst Road. The Village apologizes for any inconveniences.

Wheeling Detective Walks for Children's Advocacy Center

Wheeling, Illinois – May 2, 2003 – He’s seen a lot during his 14 years in law enforcement. Domestic disputes, homicides, burglaries…..eventually becoming jaded and cynical - desensitized to the lawlessness he confronted on a daily basis. Yet his hard work earned him a promotion to detective, and with that promotion came the kids.

“Once I was promoted to detective I began investigating a number of cases involving abused children,” said Wheeling Police Detective Jim Plovanich. “Every investigation was a highly emotional experience because I was dealing with kids who had been abused physically, emotionally and sexually…..often times traumatized to the point where communication with them was virtually impossible.”

That’s when Plovanich was introduced to the Children’s Advocacy Center of Northwest Cook County. The C.A.C. is a non-profit organization that interviews and counsels children who are victims of sexual and physical abuse. Essentially, the organization becomes the liaison between the abuse victim and organizations such as the investigating police department, Department of Children and Family Services or the Cook County State ’s Attorney’s Office.

“The Children’s Advocacy Center is invaluable to us when we are attempting to communicate with an abused child,” Plovanich explained. “They are so caring and professional and treat the victims with maternal-like instincts; they rebuild the trust that was destroyed and make it possible for the victims to open up.”

Plovanich became so impressed with the people and mission of the C.A.C. that he decided to undertake a monumental fundraising effort on their behalf. “The C.A.C. exists primarily on the financial generosity of the caring citizens and businesses of the Northwest suburbs,” he said. “I wanted to do something to give back….I know first-hand the importance of the services they provide.”

That ‘Something’ became a ‘Walk Across Wyoming’ to benefit C.A.C. An incredible 400-mile, two-week trek across the rugged and scenic countryside of the state Plovanich became enamored with when he read Mountain Man, by Vardis Fisher. He will average 30-miles per day while carrying everything needed for sustenance on his back.

“I realize it sounds a little crazy for a person to walk across an entire state, but I’m accomplishing two things that are very important to me,” he said. “I have always wanted to embark on this type of adventure and now I have the inspiration [C.A.C.] needed to finally go for it.”

While Plovanich’s inspiration comes from the kids the C.A.C. helps, the people that make up the C.A.C. are pretty inspired by him.

“This is an unbelievable show of commitment and belief in what we do,” said Mark Parr, C.A.C. Director. “Obviously whatever funds he raises will be appreciated, but perhaps more important is the awareness he’s creating for an issue that still exists in our communities. He is an inspiration to everyone within the C.A.C.”

Plovanich begins his journey July 7 and expects to be back in Wheeling two weeks later. Any individuals or businesses interested helping Jim raise as much money as possible for the C.A.C. are encouraged to contact him at  847-459-2648.

Pavilion Senior Center Hosts Annual Family Fun Faire

Wheeling, Illinois - April 29, 2003 - The Wheeling Pavilion Senior Center's annual Family Fun Faire runs from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. June 7. The event is considered the Center's premier fundraiser and will feature silent and live auctions, raffles, clowns, snacks, a bake sale and a luncheon bar.

The Center is seeking appropriate donations or services from local businesses and residents for the auctions. Proceeds from the auctions benefit activities for people over age 55 in Wheeling Prospect Heights and Buffalo Grove. Additional dollar donations will go the Senior Program fund to support various activities and services.

This year's event is sponsored in part by American Enterprise Bank, Century 21-Real Estate Wheeling, Corus Bank, The Countryside Press, Daily Herald and Kenny Construction Company.

For information, call the senior center at 847-459-2670.

Wheeling Township Senior Services Presents Spring Educational Forum

Wheeling, Illinois - April 29, 2003 - The Wheeling Senior Citizens Commission hosts its Spring Educational Forum at 1 p.m. May 8 at the Pavilion Senior Center, 199 N. First Street. The Forum is designed to inform residents about the many services available from Wheeling Township.

Director of Senior and Disabled Services Sue Ellen Burlini will discuss the township's HATS (Help Available to Seniors) program. She will cover such subjects as transportation, the visiting nurse program and Meals-on-Wheels.

Assessor Dolores Stephan will provide information about the Cook county senior homestead exemption, senior tax freeze and the tax-deferred program.

For information, call the senior center at 847-459-2670.

Wheeling to Participate in 16th Annual Paint-A-Thon

Wheeling, Illinois - April 29, 2003 The Village of Wheeling is grabbing its rollers and paint brushes and participating in the 16th Annual Community Paint-A-Thon scheduled for Saturday, September 6, 2003. The annual event is a unique community partnership designed to paint homes owned and occupied by seniors with limited financial resources.

"This is one of the most rewarding events we participate in," said Nancy Janssen, Director of Senior Citizen Services for Wheeling. "It's one day of hard work, camaraderie and an unbelievable outpouring of love."

Although the actual painting day is not until September, Janssen pointed out that interested individuals should begin the application process now. "Qualified home owners must be at least 60-years-old or have a permanent disability and cannot do the work themselves," Janssen said. "In addition, their annual income must not exceed $25,000. The selection committee does take into account excessive expenses like prescriptions and medical bills when determining eligibility."

At the heart of the event is the massive volunteer workforce that assembles for the one-day project. Once the homes are identified, teams of volunteers are assigned to scrape, prime and paint each house. Each team consists of one leader and approximately 20 workers. "There were approximately 650 volunteers at last year's event," Janssen said. "Obviously, this event could not happen without the kindness of many caring people."

Individuals who would like to be considered for the project or who are interested in volunteering can contact Nancy Janssen at 847-459-2670 or stop by the Wheeling Senior Citizens Center, 199 N. First Street.

Wheeling Police Offer Free Car Seat Inspection

 Wheeling, Illinois - April 28, 2003 - The Wheeling Police Department will conduct a free car seat inspection from 1 to 4 p.m. Saturday, May 3 at Target, 1400 E. Lake Cook Road. The event is sponsored in part by Bill Stasek Chevrolet and the Wheeling Safe Communities Coalition.

The event is one of three the department hosts throughout the year. “Results from previous safety seat checks have shown that four out of five car seats are used incorrectly,” said Officer Dorann Swanson. “Car seats can be more tricky to install than you think; people are always surprised when you point out potential problems or accidents waiting to happen.”

Swanson is one of seven certified inspectors in the department. Certified inspectors must complete a stringent course taught by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration in Stevens Point, Wisconsin. “The course basically teaches you how to inspect every nook and a cranny of a car seat and ensure your child is as safe as possible,” Swanson added.

For more information, contact the Wheeling Police Department at 847-459-2632.

Illinois Torch Run Raises Funds for Special Olympics

Wheeling, Illinois - April 25, 2003 – Two miles. Two miles that symbolize heroism, an inspirational spirit and an overwhelming sense of pride in the athletes who participate in Illinois Special Olympics.

Wheeling Law Enforcement Officials will participate in the 2003 Law Enforcement Torch Run for Special Olympics Illinois on June 8. Wheeling officers and staff will man the eighth leg of the annual run that raises funds for the more than 500,000 Special Olympians across Illinois. The Illinois Law Enforcement Torch Run is the single largest year-round fund-raising event benefiting Special Olympics Illinois. Each year, more than 3,000 officers in Illinois run more than 1,500 miles carrying the Flame of Hope through their hometowns and deliver it to the State Summer Games.

Law Enforcement officials from Buffalo Grove will pass the torch to the Wheeling contingent at Lake-Cook and Milwaukee. The runners will proceed up Milwaukee Ave. to Hintz Road where the torch will be handed to officers from Prospect Heights. Each of the 15 to 20 Wheeling officers and staff members carrying the symbolic flame will have raised anywhere from $100 to $1,000 in contributions.

“The sole reason we do this is to raise money for an organization that is invaluable to thousands of physically challenged individuals in Illinois,” said Officer Mike Porzycki, 2003 Wheeling Torch Chairperson. “Collectively, Illinois law enforcement agencies have been able to raise millions of dollars over the years – two miles at a time.”

Commander Bill Benson has been running with the Wheeling contingent for 16 years. During that time he’s not only seen the amount of donations increase, the number of runners has also multiplied. “The first year we participated it was another officer and me,” Benson recounted. “Over the last 16 years we’ve been able to recruit additional runners which meant we raised more funds for the Special Olympics. It’s really an event we look forward to all year and there is such a spirit of camaraderie among each of the different departments that participates; we know we’re helping out a great cause.”

Individuals and/or organizations who are interested in contributing donations to Special Olympics Illinois via the Wheeling Police Department can contact Officer Mike Porzycki at 847-459-2632 or James Lang, Public Relations Coordinator at 847-459-2605. All donations are tax deductible.

“Thanks to the Law Enforcement Torch Run, Special Olympics Illinois is better able to reach more athletes and offer them more year-round training and competition opportunities," says Doug Snyder, Special Olympics Illinois President and CEO.

Wheeling Police Department Hosts 2nd Annual "Rockin' with the Cops"

Wheeling, Illinois – April 18, 2003 – At first glance, the pairing of Wheeling Police Officers and middle-school age kids on a Saturday night might give one the impression something is amiss. Not so on May 3. The Wheeling Police Department hosts its 2nd Annual Rockin’ with the Cops Event from 7 to 10 p.m. Saturday, May 3 at the Wheeling Park District Recreation Center, 333 W. Dundee Road.

The event is designed to give area fifth, sixth and seventh grade students an opportunity to hang out with officers in a social environment. “We started this event last year to allow us [Wheeling Police Officers] an opportunity to not only provide a fun night of games, eating and swimming for the kids, but to really interact with these kids in an unofficial capacity,” said Sgt. John Teevans, Crime Prevention Unit. “The kids get to see us as normal people who like to hang out and have fun; not just as individuals in uniform enforcing the rules.”

The event is held in conjunction with a grant from the Local Law Enforcement Block Grant [LLEBG] of Cook County. The LLEBG was provided by President John H. Stroger, Jr. and the Cook County Board of Commissioners and the Judicial Advisory Council. This project was supported by the Bureau of Justice Assistance, Office of Justice Programs. “The entire evening is free of charge,” Teevans said. “The kids can enjoy pizza and soda, we’ll have a DJ, the indoor aquatic facility will be available and I’m sure there will be some spirited games of basketball and volleyball taking place throughout the night.”

While community outreach programs are common in most police departments, Wheeling takes pride in the fact that they host actual events for the youth. “I’m extremely proud of my officers for taking an active role in the lives of these kids away from the 9 to 5 of the job,” said John Popadowski, Police Chief. “In some cases, these kids do not have many positive adult role models in their lives and their perceptions of police officers are that we are individuals to avoid. Events like ‘Rockin’ with the Cops’ allow the officers and kids a chance to establish relationships based on friendship and trust.”

Due to an overwhelming response last year, the program is limited to the first 350 kids who sign up. Registration and waiver forms are available at Holmes and London Middle Schools and Wheeling Grade Schools and should be turned into the respective Wheeling Police School Officers or homeroom teachers by April 30. 

For more information, call 847-459-2990.

Arbor Day Tree Planting

Wheeling, Illinois - April 15, 2003 - The Village of Wheeling invites you to its annual Arbor Day Celebration at 9 a.m. Friday, April 25 at Holmes Jr. High. Village representatives and students will mark the occasion by joining forces to plant an Autumn Purple Ash.

“This is a great opportunity for our students to interact with representatives of our Village government,” said Loretta Cordova, Holmes Jr. High teacher and Arbor Day Chairperson. “We’re extremely pleased that the Village chose to use Holmes for this year’s planting.”

According to Guy Kolberg, Director of Public Works, the commemorative tree actually replaces a diseased tree that had to be removed. This year’s Arbor Day planting coincides with the Village receiving its first National Arbor Day Growth Award.  Only Tree City USA recipients who demonstrate an increased dedication to not only planting additional trees, but educating the community receive the coveted Growth Award.  The Tree City USA Growth Award is provided by The National Arbor Day Foundation, in cooperation with the National Association of State Foresters and the USDA Forest Service, to recognize environmental improvement and encourage higher levels of tree care throughout America. This award is designed not only to recognize achievement, but also to communicate new ideas and help the leaders of all Tree City USAs plan for improving community tree care.

“We take great pride in the fact that Wheeling has been recognized as being a Tree City USA for the last 13 years,” Kolberg said. “Receiving our first Growth Award is indicative of our commitment to continuing the beautification process throughout our Village.”

Annual Water Flushing Scheduled to Begin Soon

Wheeling, Illinois - April 15, 2003 - The Village of Wheeling’s Water Division will be conducting its annual fire hydrant flushing throughout May.

The Hydrant flushing is scheduled to commence on May 4, weather permitting, between 6 a.m. and 3 p.m. and will continue until all portions of the water distribution system are completed. “The flushing is an important preventative maintenance program and is undertaken to remove particulate matter and corrosion from the system,” said Scott Lark, Water Division Supervisor. “Residents may notice a little less water pressure and discoloration of their water during the flushing program, however, the water is completely safe to drink.” Residents are advised to check the color of the water before beginning laundry in order to prevent any staining.

Signs will be posted in areas designated for flushing one day in advance of the work.

Should any citizens have concerns regarding the flushing program they may contact the Public Works Department at 459-2624 on weekdays from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Village Announces Availability of 9th Annual Community Scholarship

Wheeling, Illinois – April 11, 2003 – Village President Greg Klatecki is pleased to announce the availability of the 9th Annual Community Scholarship in cooperation with the Northwest Municipal Conference and the Workforce Board of Northern Cook County. As a result of a joint scholarship development campaign in the business community, the Village was provided with funds to award a scholarship(s) to pursue educational training, upgrading or retraining. “We’re honored to partner with the NWMC and Workforce Board of Northern Cook County to provide our young people the opportunity to pursue their dreams via education,” said President Klatecki. A President’s Committee will select the scholarship winner(s). The scholarship(s) can be applied toward tuition, books and any other commensurate educational expenses.

For Celina Hidalgo, a 2001 scholarship recipient and current nursing student at William Rainey Harper College, the scholarship represented more than a financial reward. “When I received a Community Scholarship two years ago it made me realize there are people who believe in me and truly want me to succeed in my chosen career,” Hidalgo said. “I encourage any eligible candidate to apply for the scholarship; It has  meant a great deal to me in my pursuit of my nursing degree.”

The candidate must be: a resident of Wheeling; a United States citizen or permanent resident; demonstrate financial need; be a first-time, continuing or returning student and take coursework at an approved Illinois educational institution. Additional information regarding the eligibility and selection criteria for the scholarship is included with the application. Applications are available at Village Hall, 255 W. Dundee and on the Village’s website.  Completed applications must be returned to Village Hall by 3 p.m. May 16, 2003.

Wheeling Tentatively Approves Budget for Revised Fiscal Year

Wheeling, Illinois - April 9, 2003 - The Village of Wheeling has tentatively approved a $37 million budget for a “short” fiscal year, beginning May 1 and ending December 31. The Board of Trustees opted for the revised financial period to align it with the calendar year. The final vote is scheduled to take place at the April 28 regularly scheduled Board Meeting.

“We want to have a better idea of our spending needs so that we can adjust the level of property taxes when levied instead of making estimates based on parts of two different years,” said Village Manager Wallace Douthwaite.

Douthwaite also said the move should save money in that capital-improvement bids can be made at a time when contractors are idle. “If we wait until spring, the contractors' calendars are likely to be full leading to higher costs when they squeeze us into their work schedules.”

The budget covers $6.4 million in capital improvements, including $966,000 for the planned widening and resurfacing of Wolf Rd. from Manchester Dr. to Milwaukee Ave. An additional $142,000 from tax-increment finance (TIF) funds also is earmarked for the project. Although the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) has jurisdiction over Wolf Rd., it requires advance payment to begin work.

The Wolf Rd. contract will be let in September, making it part of the new fiscal year. However, most of the construction will take place in 2004. The widening of the roadway will provide for an 11-foot center turn lane, easing the congestion that now occurs due to motorists making left turns. In addition, new streetlights and an enclosed drainage system will be installed.

The budget allocates $580,000 to acquire flood-prone properties in the Wolf Rd. corridor. It will mark the second year of the acquisition program, which is being funded by a federal grant. Contracts for the current year have been let, but work has not yet begun.

The recent approval of the North TIF District, centering on N. Milwaukee Ave. from Strong St. to Lake Cook Rd., coupled with the planned Prairie Park condominium development, requires additional water delivery to the area. A 16-inch water transmission line costing $1.14 million will be built from Northgate Pkwy. to Wolf Ct. this summer. Funding came from monies originally allocated to the reconstruction of Wheeling Rd. from Dundee to Hintz Rds. That project will be included in the 2004 budget.

Other expenditures include $205,000 for construction of the Wheeling bicycle path from Dundee Rd. to Lake Cook Rd., which is being funded by an IDOT grant. Three firefighters and several administrative positions also will be added.

Wheeling Residents Affected by Upcoming Sidewalk Improvements

Wheeling, Illinois – April 9, 2003 – Wheeling residents residing in the Hollywood Ridge subdivision will soon receive new sidewalks as part of the Village’s 2003 Sidewalk Removal and Replacement Program. The on-going, annual program is designed to remove and replace defective, cracked, heaved and potentially dangerous sidewalk squares. Work is scheduled to commence shortly and be completed in approximately three to four weeks, weather permitting, according to Public Works officials.

The Village is aware of the temporary inconveniences these improvements will undoubtedly cause. Every attempt will be made to minimize inconveniences associated with undesirable construction-related conditions and potential driveway closures during this project.

Some of the sidewalk squares scheduled for replacement are located immediately adjacent to private driveways and aprons. In cases where construction impedes private driveways and aprons, residents will not be able to park or drive on the concrete for 72 hours. Throughout the construction process, the police department will permit overnight parking along all streets located within the affected sections of the Hollywood Ridge subdivision.

Village officials thank the Hollywood Ridge subdivision residents in advance for their patience and cooperation and are confident the completed sidewalk improvements will outweigh any temporary inconveniences.

Lang Named Wheeling Public Relations Coordinator

Wheeling, Illinois — March 26, 2003 — James Lang will join the Village of Wheeling on April 7 as public relations coordinator, Village Manager F. Wallace Douthwaite announced today. The position is new.

Lang, 30, is currently public information coordinator for River Trails Park District, Mt. Prospect, IL. He formerly was communications director for the Vernon Hills Park District

The position will be responsible for developing media news releases, producing the Village newsletter, Village Views, coordinating activities with the Special Events Commission, and other, related activities.

Lang holds a bachelors degree in journalism from Northwestern State University in Louisiana. He is currently a candidate for a master’s degree in business administration at the University of Phoenix.

Wheeling Board OK's Overhaul of "London Bridge"

Wheeling, Illinois — March 20, 2003 — The Wheeling Board of Trustees has agreed in principle to reconstruct the 36-year-old pedestrian crosswalk over Dundee Rd. at Jack London Middle School. The 81-foot superstructure of the so-called “London bridge” will be replaced with a “bow-string” truss construction topped with a protective screen.

Plans call for installing corrugated steel topped with lightweight concrete to form the walkway. The stairs will be refurbished and repainted. The abutments will be faced with fieldstone similar to that used in other public spaces such as Cole Taylor-Friendship Park at Milwaukee Ave. and Dundee Rd.

The trustees approved a reconstruction budget of about $272,000 but excluded a proposal for accent landscape lighting, citing concerns about vandalism. The Public Works Department will install landscaping at a later date. It is estimated the project will be completed by fall.

The crosswalk had been targeted for demolition several years ago in favor of a traffic light at Cedar Dr., a move initially opposed by the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT), which controls Dundee Rd. IDOT later ruled the Village may install a traffic light at that location or keep the overpass — but not both.

“Everyone is concerned about safety at that location,” said Village Manager Wallace Douthwaite. “We’re confident this solution, coupled with crossing guards, will offer maximum protection for children going to and from school.”

About 37,000 vehicles a day pass beneath the structure.

Finance Association Recognizes Village of Wheeling

Wheeling, Illinois — March 20, 2003 — The Government Finance Officers Association (GFOA) has bestowed its Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting on the Village of Wheeling. The award is based on the Village’s comprehensive annual financial planning report.

The certificate is GFOA’s highest recognition in governmental accounting. The organization said the recognition “represents a significant accomplishment by a government and its management.”

A GFOA panel judged the comprehensive annual financial report against an established standard. One of the program’s objectives is demonstrating a “spirit of full disclosure” that motivates users to read the report.

Finance Director Michael Mondschain accepted the award on behalf of the Village.

Petersburg Place to Rise on N. Milwaukee Ave

Wheeling, Illinois — February 12, 2003 — The Wheeling Board of Trustees has approved plans to build a new shopping plaza on N. Milwaukee Ave., next to the Shadow Bend residential complex. To be called Petersburg Place, the center will contain almost 17,000 square feet of office and retail space in two buildings.

The developer, Alexander Babitsky, plans to break ground on the project by spring. He anticipates a September completion date.

Petersburg Place will feature a brick exterior with gabled roofs, echoing other, recently built stores in the Village. The developer plans to attract high-quality retailers similar to the jewelry store already signed to a long-term lease. Negotiations are continuing for a Chicago bookstore and others to relocate to the property.

The plaza is expected to employ 35-50 people when it is fully occupied.

Petersburg Place lies within the Crossroads tax increment finance (TIF) district. The Board has not determined whether TIF funds will be awarded to help finance the $2 million in projected construction costs.

Wheeling Takes Over KMart Lease

Wheeling, Illinois — February 10, 2003— The Wheeling Board of Trustees wants to guard the keys to the former KMart building on Dundee Rd. Toward that end, the Board voted to assume the lease on the building. The arrangement with Kimart, L.P., a Kmart subsidiary, ensures the property will be developed in accordance with existing Village code, the forthcoming comprehensive plan and the trustees’ vision of the changing face of Wheeling.

The 107,000 square foot building has been unoccupied since KMart Corp. announced a nationwide restructuring and closure of many stores two years ago. To date, various organizations have expressed interest in the property, including car dealers, grocery stores, museum and community interests.

Trustees found it in “the public health, safety and welfare” to acquire the lease. They had expressed concern that the building could be leased to a tenant not suitable for Wheeling’s continuing modernization.

The resolution adopting the arrangement said the move will allow the “Village to take an active role in fostering economic development; promoting the economic revitalization of the area in which the KMart Building is located through redevelopment; and by preventing blight.”

Wheeling PD Issues Warning: Beware of Scam Artists

Wheeling, Illinois — January 24, 2003 — The Wheeling Police Department has issued a consumer alert against scam artists who have victimized several village residents. One episode involved deceptive utility repairs, while the other was a variation on a widespread sweepstakes fraud.

In the first scheme, a man masquerading as a utility-company employee approached a resident claiming that, because of problems in the area, he needed to check something in the house, according to Officer Dorann Swanson, of the Wheeling Crime Prevention Unit.

“The man carried an identification badge and a radio. While the homeowner was distracted, a second man entered the home and stole several items of value. The first man then abruptly left in a white van or sport-utility vehicle,” Swanson said.

Another resident fell victim to a telemarketer, who told her she had won the Canadian Lottery. To receive her winnings, however, she had to mail a check to pay the taxes. “The victim eagerly agreed,” Swanson said, “and mailed a money order for several thousand dollars to the address given. After several months and another phone call requesting more money, the victim realized she had been scammed.”

These scams come in different varieties, and the police department has issued guidelines to help residents from being victimized.

Home repair fraud or ruse entry.

•  If someone comes to the door claiming that they are there to "check" on cable connections,
    phone lines, power lines, water or electric meters, request identification. Keep the 'repair
    person' outside, with the door locked, and call the utility company to verify the person’s
    legitimacy. Do not let them in until you can confirm that their presence is authorized.

•  Beware of anyone offering to pave the driveway, repair the roof or paint the house with
    supplies "left over from another job in the neighborhood."

•  Use contractors that have established places of business or those recommended by a friend
    or family member.

•  Never pay cash or pay in advance. Always pay by check or money order.

•  Females may try to enter your home by appearing with a sick child, requesting to use your
    phone, asking for a glass of water or using another ploy. If they get in, they may be there to
    distract you while a confederate looks for valuables.

Sweepstakes scams.

•  Insist on receiving written information about a solicitor’s organization, but don’t be fooled
    by impressive-looking brochures. Check them out with the Better Business Bureau or the
    Illinois Attorney General’s Consumer Affairs Office.

•  Never supply your credit card number, bank account number, Social Security number or
   any personal information over the phone unless you initiate the call.

•  Don’t act hastily. Always take your time to make a decision. If it sounds too good to be
    true, it probably is.

•  If a caller won’t answer your questions, hang up!

The Wheeling Police Department is warning residents to beware of anyone offering to do home repair jobs or claiming to be with a utility company. All utility employees will carry proper identification and will not object if you want to verify them with the company. Immediately report any suspicious behavior to the police.

For more information, contact the Crime Prevention Unit at 847-459-2693.

Klatecki Names Five as Wheeling Commissioners

Wheeling, Illinois — January 20, 2003 — Wheeling President Greg Klatecki has filled five openings on three Village commissions, including the Economic Development Commission, the Human Rights Commission and the Special Events Commission.

Terry Bleecker, general manager of Rich Products Corp., Wheeling, will join the Economic Development Commission (EDC), which guides the Village’s efforts to attract and retain companies that support the business base. Rich Products is a food manufacturer. Also appointed to the EDC is Scott R. Blackwood,  who is vice president of operations at Wheeling-based Dearborn/CDT, a manufacturer of wire and cable products. Bleecker and Blackwood will serve for three years.

The Human Rights Commission will get two new members — Carol Samp, a Village resident for eight-and-a-half years, and Wendy Plotkin, who is in education and research at the University of Illinois, Chicago, Main Library. The Human Rights Commission is responsible for promoting diversity, mutual respect, cooperation and understanding within the Village. Both Samp and Plotkin will serve two-year terms.

Charles C. Spratt, a maintenance supervisor in the Wheeling Public Works Department, becomes the newest member of the recently reorganized Special Events Commission. His term will last for two years. The commission plans and organizes village-wide activities such as the July 4 parade and Taste of Wheeling, the holiday Festival of Lights and similar events.

“I deeply appreciate the willingness of these people, and all who serve on our boards and commissions, to volunteer their time to help move Wheeling ahead,” Klatecki said. “We elected officials, and all of our residents, need the insight, dedication and talent these commissioners provide.”

Wheeling Public Works Modernizes Construction-Planning Tools

Wheeling, Illinois — January 17, 2003 — Remember the surveyors who used to peer through tripod-mounted “telescopes” and wave their arms at pole-wielding assistants down the road or up the hill? Well, there’ll be no more of that in the Wheeling Public Works Department, where the old surveyors’ telescopes, called “transits,” have gone to their Greater Reward.

As part of a larger effort to modernize and update its capabilities, the Department recently added two pieces of equipment, a “total station” and “data collector” to its surveying toolbox. The first device, a digital electronic distance measurement transit, maps the location and elevation of trees, curbs, driveways, sewer manholes, utility and street light poles, sidewalks, and other geographic features.

The transit then passes the information to the data collector. This handheld “electronic field book” stores the information for later downloading to a computer. Once computerized, the data integrate with specialized software to help the Department design roadways, water mains, and sewer projects.

“Now that we have three engineers with CAD [computer aided drafting] capabilities,” said Public Works Director Guy Kolberg, “we can proceed with streamlining our techniques to plan infrastructure projects. This new system will eliminate a lot of tedious manual drafting work.”

It will also save a significant amount of money. The Topcon Total Station and Ranger data collector, which cost less than $10,000, will eliminate the outsourcing previously done by private engineering or surveying consultants whose work can cost as much as $250,000 on a million-dollar job.

Clare Sloan Named Wheeling Assistant Village Planner

Wheeling, Illinois — December 30, 2002 — Clare Sloan has joined the Wheeling Community Development Department as assistant village planner. A recent graduate of the University of Illinois at Champaign, Sloan, 22, holds a degree in regional and urban planning.

A native of Elmhurst (IL), Sloan participated in the planning of a residential neighborhood in Champaign. She also surveyed and analyzed attitudes of residents in a mixed-income housing project in England while studying at the University of Sheffield.

Sloan held an internship with the Commodity Futures Trading Commission in Chicago, where she analyzed trading patterns and conducted floor surveillance for trade irregularities.

Sloan will work with and report to Village Planner Jeff Harris on issues of land use, long-term development goals, and implementing the comprehensive plan currently under development.

The Changing Face of Wheeling: Wheeling Road Construction Tops 2003 Capital Improvements

Wheeling, Illinois — December 17, 2002 — The Wheeling Public Works Department may budget more than $5 million in 2003 on a proposed capital improvement program that encompasses road work, sidewalk replacement, street lighting, new water mains and construction of a bicycle path. The capital improvement program will be presented to the Board of Trustees for its consideration and approval in early 2003.

Topping the list is the scheduled reconstruction of Wheeling Rd. from Dundee Rd. to Hintz Rd. The $2.5 million project will include widening the roadbed from Town St. (at the Metra parking lot) to Hintz Rd. One low-lying section, subject to flooding, will be raised. Plans also call for resurfacing from Town St. to Dundee Rd., and the widening and reconfiguration of the Wheeling-Dundee intersection, depending on land acquisition and final approval from the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT). The area immediately around Town Rd. was rebuilt several years ago when the Metra station parking lot was constructed. It will not be resurfaced in 2003.

The Department will install 20-inch water mains, medians and landscaping on Wheeling Rd., south of Hintz, at a cost of $1 million. Work is targeted for completion by late summer.

New streetlights on Milwaukee Ave., from Hintz to Manchester, will illuminate the remainder of the highway not included in IDOT’s major reconstruction of Milwaukee Ave. six years ago. The Public Works Department will situate 33 poles and lamp standards at a cost of $182,000.

Crews will rework 3.2 miles of streets in the Dunhurst I and II subdivisions. The work will include replacement of some deteriorating curbs as well as resurfacing of the streets. The project will top off the installation of new water mains that took place over the past two years.

Hollywood Ridge, Poplar Grove and parts of the Dunhurst subdivisions will get new streetlights as part of the village’s long-term program to replace aging wood ComEd poles. Public works will spend $195,000 to install modern aluminum poles and light standards that conform to village specifications.

The department has targeted aging sidewalks for replacement throughout the village. Inspectors are presently evaluating the condition of the sidewalks and marking specific squares for reconstruction. The project will cost $100,000.

A long-planned undertaking to build a 1.84 mile bicycle path will take place in 2003. The trail will run from Dundee Rd. to Lake Cook Rd., where it will connect with an existing path north to the Buffalo Grove train station. The U.S. Department of Transportation will defray 80 percent of the $784,000 cost. Wheeling, as the “lead agency,” paid for the design in advance and will front the costs associated with construction inspections. The village will be reimbursed later.

Two additional projects affecting Wheeling, but under the jurisdiction of other agencies, also will occur next year. IDOT will complete the major overhaul of McHenry Rd. begun in 2002. Installation of new culverts to replace open drainage ditches is already under way. The roadbed will be widened to four lanes, plus a center left-turn lane. Additionally, the Rte. 83-McHenry Rd. intersection will be reconfigured. The work is scheduled for completion by late summer.

Canadian National Railway plans to close the Hintz Rd. crossing for about 10 days in early spring. Workers will install an industrial track to accommodate switching operations and clear traffic from the main line. The railroad also will install a new track from Dundee Rd. north to Deerfield Pkwy. as part of its long-term effort to add a second track to Antioch. The entire North Central section of the railroad will be double-tracked by 2005, allowing for twice as many commuter trains as currently possible.

Officers to Teach How It's Done at Wheeling Police Academy

Wheeling, Illinois — December 15, 2002 — Police procedures and techniques will be the subject of the ninth annual Wheeling Citizens Police Academy, which begins Feb. 5 and runs until April 16, 2003. The 10-week program will provide participants with first-hand information on topics ranging from how department units function to law enforcement and community policing.

Academy instructors are drawn from department officers and personnel, who teach their areas of expertise. The instructors have broad training and experience, and the officers bring street experience into the classroom.

The initial session will include an introduction, an orientation and the history and organization of the police department. In the weeks that follow, instructors will explain such units as Patrol, Traffic, Crime Prevention/Community Relations, DARE, and Investigations. Law-enforcement will cover domestic violence, child abuse, use of force, major crimes and community policing.

Participation in the Academy requires a commitment of one night a week for the 10-week period. Classes are held one night a week from 7:00-9:30 p.m. at Village Hall, 255 W. Dundee Rd.

At the end of the Academy participants will ride in a patrol car for one shift to experience first-hand what officers see and hear, and how they apply their training.

Anyone who lives or works in the Village over the age of 21 may apply for the Academy. A criminal background check will be conducted on all applicants.

To apply, call or e-mail for an application. A printable application is available on the Forms and Permits page in the Reference Desk section of the Village Web site:
(/ReferenceDesk/FormsAndPermits.asp#PoliceDepartmentForms).

Applicants will be notified if they are selected for the next session. There is no charge for the Academy.

Wheeling Mines the Salt for Winter

Wheeling, Illinois — December 5, 2002 — The Village of Wheeling is preparing to assault Old Man Winter with upwards of 1,800 tons of sodium chloride this snow season. That’s how much salt may be needed to keep 65 miles of streets clear of ice and snow during a “typical” winter. Over the past two decades, the village has used an average of 1,500-2,000 tons annually.

Thanks to a new storage bin, the village can store nearly 1,000 tons of salt. Previously, the public works department could store only 500 tons at a time.

“That meant we often ran low,” said Street Supervisor Jeff Kopper. “More than once we were only able to get fresh supplies until right before a new storm hit. That’s too close.”

Wheeling deploys 37 pieces of equipment, including six salt trucks, to clear all the streets within its jurisdiction. The village averages 28 salt runs and eight plow runs a year.

The number of streets cleared has remained relatively static, although the village assumed responsibility for Wolf Rd. between Marquardt Dr. and Manchester Dr. in the past two years. The Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) handles the rest of Wolf Rd. between Manchester and Milwaukee Ave. (That stretch will fall under the village’s jurisdiction after IDOT widens and resurfaces it in 2004.) IDOT also clears Wolf Rd. south of Marquardt.

Other local streets are under the jurisdiction of either IDOT or the Cook County Highway Department. In addition to parts of Wolf Rd., IDOT plows Dundee Rd., Elmhurst Rd.,

Milwaukee Ave., McHenry Rd., Palatine Rd., and Aptakisic Rd. For information or to report road-clearing problems, call 847-705-4222.

The Cook County Highway Department (847-827-1164) is responsible for Lake-Cook Rd., Schoenbeck Rd., Hintz Rd., Camp McDonald Rd., Buffalo Grove Rd., Old Buffalo Grove Rd., and Wheeling Rd. south of Palatine Rd.

Wheeling Names 3 Engineer to Public Works Posts

Wheeling, Illinois — November 25, 2002 — The Wheeling Public Works Department has appointed three engineers to open positions as part of a recently announced restructuring and modernization process.

Licensed Professional Engineer Timothy M. Merrihew has become the Wheeling capital projects manager, occupying a position that had been vacant since Guy Kolberg assumed the position of public works director earlier this year.

Merrihew, a Wheeling resident, had worked for the public works department until 1999, when he joined SPACECO, Inc., in Rosemont. While there he worked on a variety of site-improvement plans for residential, commercial and industrial developments. More recently, he was a member of the Glenview Development Department, Engineering Division.

Merrihew holds a bachelor’s degree in civil engineering from the University of Nebraska. He has 14 years experience in engineering design and construction experience, including more than two years in municipal engineering.

As capital projects manager, Merrihew is responsible for overseeing such activities as street repaving, water and sewer maintenance and upgrading, and streetlight installation.

Jayant Shah has joined public works to fill the newly created slot of staff engineer. He had been a member of the Water and Sewer Division with the City of Evanston starting in 1987 before coming to Wheeling. Previously he was a draftsman with B. H. Suhr & Co., of Evanston. His knowledge of computer-assisted drafting (CAD) techniques is significant in that the public works department is planning to upgrade its mapping capabilities from an outdated paper-based system to state-of-the art computerized techniques.

Shah holds a master’s degree in engineering and professional certificates for proficiency in drafting and various computer-related specialties.

Bill Herrmann joined the Wheeling Public Works Department as a civil engineer after stints with various private engineering and construction firms. He has supervised the design, development and construction of projects for Motorola, Waste Management, Harper College and Northbrook Park District. He also acted as village engineer for the Village of Fox Lake (IL), where he designed sanitary sewer, water main, storm sewer and road rehabilitation projects. He has additional municipal experience with the Villages of Arlington Heights, Deer Park, Antioch and Chicago Ridge.

Like Shah, Herrmann brings to Wheeling a knowledge of CAD techniques. He was educated at Southern Illinois University and holds specialty certificates from the University of Wisconsin and the American Public Works Association, among others. He is a member of the American Water Works Association, the American Public Works Association and the American Society of Civil Engineers.  He is a resident of Antioch.

“The addition of these highly qualified engineers is a distinct step forward in meeting the needs of Wheeling residents,” said Public Works Director Guy Kolberg. “Before, we had to contract out for these services. Now, we can upgrade our capabilities, respond more quickly and save significantly in the process.”

Wheeling Reorganizes Special Events Commission

Wheeling, Illinois — November 18, 2002 — The Village of Wheeling has established a new standing committee, the Special Events Commission, to plan and oversee village-sponsored community activities. The nine-member board succeeds the ad-hoc Special Events Committee, which had handled similar activities for five years.

Trustee Judy Abruscato will head the commission and also act as the official liaison from the Board of Trustees. The commission will operate on an allocated annual budget of $150,000.

Events under the commission’s jurisdiction include the annual Taste of Wheeling and 4th of July parade and fireworks, the “Festival of Lights” celebration held in November to kick off the holiday season, and a spring spaghetti dinner. The commission may also develop other events, such as the special commemoration of the September 11 attacks conducted earlier this year.

Trustee Patrick Horcher, who sponsored the measure establishing the commission, said, “The new ordinance provides a recognized structure for this body, effective oversight by the Board of Trustees and accountability for its plans and activities. It also opens to all residents of the village the process of filling commission openings.”

Members of the commission initially will serve terms of one or two years to ensure that all positions do not become open at once. Eventually, all terms will be two years in duration.

Commissioners named to the new panel by Village President Greg Klatecki and their terms include:

Linda Bressett (2)
Patricia Dzierzynski (1)
Clarice Jones -Turman (2)
George G. Hieber (1)
Randy S. Klocke (2)
Candice M. Simmons (1)
Village Clerk Elaine Simpson (2)
Stuart S. Sosin (1)

In another action, Klatecki appointed Georgia C Delaney to serve a two-year term on the Wheeling Senior Commission.

Another Bargain: 2nd Crash Truck Joins Wheeling Fire Dept

Wheeling, Illinois — November 18, 2002 — The Wheeling Fire Department is about to double its firefighting capability for Palwaukee Municipal Airport. The department has purchased a second crash truck, formerly owned by the South Bend (IN) Regional Airport, for less than one-tenth of its estimated value.  Its recent delivery to Wheeling culminates more than six months of negotiations between the two agencies.

The additional M-1500 Oshkosh crash truck carries a water capacity of 1,500 gallons — 50% more than the 1,000-gallon volume of the current P-19 Oshkosh crash truck owned by the village. The vehicle, originally designed for use by the U.S. Force, can apply 1,000 gallons of foam solution per minute from remote-operated nozzles mounted on the front and top of the vehicle.

The latest unit is a 1979 model costing $5,000. The fire department plans to invest an additional $5,000 on minor repairs and modifications that include the installation of light bars, a siren, and lettering. Fire Chief Keith MacIsaac estimates the vehicle’s worth at between $80,000 and $100,000. A similar truck purchased new would cost more than $600,000. The vehicle should be ready for service sometime in December.

“This is part of an ongoing process to continually improve the level of service provided to the community and Palwaukee,” MacIsaac said. “Beyond the airport, these two trucks can be used to fight fires involving chemical tank trucks, chemical loading racks, large fuel spills, and rail car incidents.”

The P-19 crash truck became available four years ago following the closing of Glenview Naval Air Station. Wheeling obtained it for $3.00 through an intergovernmental agreement with the Village of Glenview.

 “This vehicle will increase our ability to adequately handle the newer jet aircraft, such as the Gulfstream 500/550 and the Bombardier Global Express, as well as complement our existing fire suppression capabilities.” MacIsaac said.

Wheeling to Install Emergency Monitoring System

Wheeling, Illinois — November 13, 2002 — A new $29,000 water-monitoring system is about to appear — or, rather, disappear — in the Village of Wheeling. The cell phone- and Internet-based system will keep an eye on the internal condition of storm water-pumping stations and sanitary lift stations (transfer points) to warn operators of emergencies or impending trouble.

The remote transmitting units (RTUs) will track power outages, high-water flows, and various conditions that could cause pumps to fail. Information from the system will be transmitted to the Internet by cell-phone technology. The RTUs also can be programmed to alert the Public Works Department by pager, email, and telephone.

“We could have installed dedicated telephone lines to provide the information, but that’s costly and unreliable since digging can sever phone lines,” said Sewer Division Supervisor Steve Morris, of the Wheeling Public Works Department. “This way, we can go to an Internet site and check ongoing conditions throughout the village. And it will let us identify problems before they become potentially costly emergencies.”

The RTUs will replace an existing system of sensors which activate a red warning light at the trouble site. Police patrols and alert citizens who see the warning lights notify Public Works personnel, who are dispatched to investigate.

“It’s an okay system,” said Morris of the existing installation, “but with the RTUs we won’t have to rely on sometimes fallible human intervention. Besides, we don’t have the resources to station someone at each of these locations 24 hours a day.”

Morris said the relatively small initial cost of the system will pay for itself many times over by preventing expensive pump breakdowns and possible backups onto private property. Additionally, rising water during heavy storms will be monitored at the Jeffrey Ave. bridge over the Wheeling Drainage Ditch and the Checker Storm Water Basin in Buffalo Grove to mitigate flooding.

The Board of Trustees approved the purchase of 10 RTUs from Gasvoda & Associates, of Calumet City. The concept, which is less than four years old, is in place in various communities around the country. However, except for a small pilot installation in the far-south suburb of Peotone, the Wheeling system will be the first of its kind in the Chicago area.

Wheeling President Addresses State of the Village

Wheeling, Illinois — November 6, 2002 — Infrastructure updating, new housing and economic expansion are the engines driving Wheeling’s future, according to Village President Greg Klatecki in remarks prepared for the “Village Views” newsletter.

“We are completing the year-long process of revising and updating the village’s comprehensive plan,” Klatecki said. “It will provide guidance for orderly growth at key locations and marks the first time the plan has been updated since the mid-1980s.”

Klatecki said the plan will guide future efforts to establish a town center complete with housing, shops and possible entertainment facilities. “With the help of the Regional Transportation Authority, we’re conducting a study around the train station to determine the area’s future.”

A new tax-increment financing district is in the planning stage for N. Milwaukee Ave. and will be included in the broader comprehensive plan, according to Klatecki.

Klatecki pointed to the recent resurfacing of Dundee Rd. and the current overhaul of McHenry Rd. as projects that are contributing to the modernization of the village. “Open drainage ditches are being replaced with underground culverts, accompanied by a reconfiguration of the McHenry Rd.-Rte. 83 intersection and widening of the roadbed to connect with four lanes north of Lake Cook Rd.”

Klatecki also mentioned a number of housing developments, saying they will “accommodate an infusion of new arrivals representing a broad spectrum of residents who can contribute to the future growth of the community. Astor Place is under construction on the site of the old Wheeling Nursery and will provide an additional 250 residential units. Park Point, on McHenry Rd., is nearing completion, and a new housing project is in the planning process on the site of the former fence business on Wolf Ct.

Klatecki cited upgrades to the infrastructure as part of a broad effort to modernize village services. “A 10-year streetlight program is illuminating many neighborhoods that were once dark. We’re also replacing deteriorating water mains and storm sewers and looking at improving certain blighted or unimproved areas. Metra will soon add a second track from Wheeling north to expand access to commuter trains and speed the movement of freight through town. The Economic Development Department is working to attract new businesses that will expand the tax base and add to our ability to build on what we have.

Klatecki added that the blend of housing, business and municipal services, and ready access to the variety provided by the Chicago metropolitan area makes Wheeling “truly a community of choice.”

Wheeling Launches Phase 2 of Wireless 9-1-1 System

Wheeling, Illinois — November 1, 2002 — Residents of Wheeling will get a new layer of emergency protection beginning in December. That’s when the Wheeling Fire Department will launch Phase II of its Wireless 9-1-1 service.

Thanks to new computer software and other technological advances, emergency dispatchers will be able to pinpoint to within approximately 1500 feet the location of anyone calling 9-1-1 in the village. Previously, dispatchers could only identify which receiver on a cellular tower was carrying the call but still had to rely on the caller’s description of nearby landmarks to locate the individual’s whereabouts. Each cell tower has three receivers, or “faces”, to receive calls in a 360-degree radius.

The latest implementation of the Wireless 9-1-1 system relies on longitude and latitude data imported into a geographic file that is displayed on a mapping program to define where people are. Triangulation of the caller’s signal strength allows for identification within an approximate quarter-mile area.

“While it isn’t a precise science yet,” said Fire Chief Keith MacIsaac, “it’s more focused and provides a new level of protection and safety to our residents. Our dispatchers will see the caller’s approximate location on a computer-generated map. This, combined with the signal being directly tied to longitude and latitude, is a significant enhancement of the current system.”

Chief MacIsaac said the program should be fully implemented for all cellular providers currently operating within the village during the first quarter of 2003. Wireless 9-1-1 calls that originate in Wheeling are received at the fire and emergency medical dispatch center jointly shared with the Glenview Fire Department. The Wheeling Police Dispatch Center handles all hard-wired, or “land-based,” 9-1-1 calls placed within the village.

The first phase of Wireless 9-1-1 service was introduced about a year ago. The final phase will go into operation sometime in 2004 or 2005. Based on global positioning satellite information, the third phase will pinpoint a caller’s location to within 300 feet.

Funds for Wireless 9-1-1 service come from a state surcharge on every cellular telephone with an Illinois billing address and are distributed according to municipal boundaries.

September 11 Memorial Service Set

Wheeling, Illinois — August 16, 2002 — The Wheeling President and Board of Trustees invite the community to a candlelight service on Sept. 11 to commemorate last year’s terrorist attacks The service, focusing on a theme of “Reflections,” will honor those who died. It will begin at 8 p.m. at Village Hall, 255 W. Dundee Rd.

Noted Chicago sports and radio personality Wayne Messmer will be the featured singer and presenter. He has been the “voice” of the National Anthem for various local sports events, including games for the Chicago Cubs. He also produces “Messmer-izing Moments,” a series of motivational audio essays heard on a local radio station six times each weekday.

Candles for the event will be supplied by the Village of Wheeling.

“Reflections” Candlelight Service

8 p.m., Sept. 11, 2002

Opening remarks

Posting of the colors - Amvets post 66

“God Bless America” - Wayne Messmer

“Reflections” - remarks by Wayne Messmer

A tribute to Wheeling firefighters/paramedics and police officers: Police Chaplains Keith Plummer, pastor of Our Savior Free Church, and Don Medernach, of Abundant Life Worship Center in Arlington Heights.

Silent remembrance

“America the Beautiful” - Wayne Messmer

For further information call Trustee Judy Abruscato at 847-459-2666 ext. 4107.

Wheeling Organizes Emergency Response Unit

Wheeling, Illinois — August 14, 2002 — The Village of Wheeling has developed an emergency response team designed to support police and firefighters in the event of a dislocating disaster. Known as the Community Assistance Relief Effort (CARE), the team will provide temporary shelter and basic living needs for up to 25 people in each of several designated areas in the Village.

Twenty-four CARE members will swing into action in any situation that might force people to relocate temporarily — from a fire or weather emergency, to a train disaster or flood. Team members have been certified by the Red Cross as a result of 20 hours of training in emergency shelter accommodations.

“This program supports police and firefighters by freeing them to deal with the immediate needs of the event that's occurring,” said Health Commissioner Pat Drewes, who has spearheaded the development of CARE.

CARE, Drewes said, is equipped to set up shelter for up to 25 people for up to 48 hours and provide emergency and personal-care needs. If the emergency continues longer than 48 hours, the Red Cross will assume long-term responsibility.

In the event of a more widespread incident, CARE is prepared to shelter up to 75 people at three different locations: the Senior Center, Village Council Chambers, and a third site still under consideration.

The program has been in development for almost two years. It began as a police and fire initiative with representatives of the Pavilion Senior Center to deal with a emergencies involving senior citizens. It evolved into a more comprehensive plan covering the entire village. The planning included developing guidelines for the shelter, food care, medical care.

CARE team members are graduates of the Wheeling Citizens Police Academy. About half are also members of VISION, the volunteer organization that conducts evening patrols for the police department. Several dry runs have helped the team review and test preparedness, including a drill with the Fire Department in June.

In the event of an emergency, CARE members will be notified by the Village’s CityWatch emergency computer system, which allows safety officials to notify the volunteers automatically by telephone.

“We are currently working to expand the program,” said Safe Communities Coordinator Tom Pilewski, who is the police liaison to the CARE effort. “Given Wheeling’s cultural diversity, we want to recruit volunteers in a multilingual format and make sure that we can move quickly in any part of the village during an emergency.”

James Kelly Appointed Wheeling Building Director
 

Wheeling, Illinois — August 7, 2002 — The Village of Wheeling has named James F. Kelly, 47, as its new building director. Previously, He spent five years in a similar position with the City of Prospect Heights. Kelly replaces Dan Ozanich, who was promoted to director of community development two months ago.

Kelly brings 13 years of public-sector experience to his new position. In addition to his tenure with Prospect Heights, he served for eight years as plan examiner for the Village of Buffalo Grove. Prior to that, he owned a Prospect Heights general contracting firm, Midwest Contracting, from 1979 until 1989.

As building director, Kelly is responsible for all new residential and commercial construction in the village. He reviews proposed construction plans to ensure compliance with local building codes. He also oversees a staff of specialists who inspect all structural, plumbing and electrical work

Kelly was educated at Harper College and the University of Wisconsin’s Department of Engineering Professional Development at Madison.

Kelly was president of the Northwest Building Officials and Code Administrators (BOCA) in 1999, when the organization was recognized by the national BOCA as Chapter of the

Year. He is a member of the Illinois Building Commission Communications Subcommittee. He serves on the McHenry County College Code Enforcement Education Advisory Committee and is coordinator for the Harper College Building Codes and Enforcement Certificate Program.

A resident of Arlington Heights, Kelly is married and the father of four children.

The Events of March 1-2, 2002: Wheeling Police Operator Holds It Together

Wheeling, Illinois — August 2, 2002 — Christine Miller is one of those people who help hold things together. She’s a communications officer with the Wheeling Police Dept. She and her colleagues act as the command post, the glue, between residents and patrol officers — fielding telephone calls, responding to radio communications, sending and receiving teletype transmissions, coordinating events that spill across jurisdictions. Sometimes, things get complicated.

Take, for example, the events of March 1-2, 2002. How Christine Miller responded to those events earned her recognition from the Wheeling Police Department and her professional organization, the Association of Public Safety Communications Officials.

Here’s what happened:

Friday, March 1, 2002. Temperature: 33 degrees (F). Conditions: grey, with fog and two inches of snow on the ground.

5:30 p.m. Alan A. Woodhouse, 76, of Wheeling, pulls out of his daughter’s driveway in Inverness, headed for home. He becomes disoriented and makes a wrong turn onto Rand Rd.

Midnight. Checks into a hotel in Fontana, WI., 55 miles northwest of Wheeling, and telephones his wife, Eileen, saying he plans to stay the night and leave late the next morning.

Saturday, March 2, 2002.

11:30 a.m. Checks out of hotel.

1:00 p.m. Wife phones hotel to confirm checkout.

4:30 p.m. Using wireless telephone, tells wife, Eileen, he is stuck in a ditch. Mrs. Woodhouse notifies several law-enforcement agencies, including the Wheeling Police Department. Communication Officer Christine Miller takes the call and dispatches Patrol Officer Scott Laverd to take a missing-persons report. She enters Woodhouse in the “leads computer,” where “I found that several other agencies had already run checks on his license plates.”

6:41 p.m. Fontana is located in Walworth County, WI, so Miller phones the sheriff’s department there to confirm they are looking for Woodhouse.

Shortly, a McHenry County deputy sheriff calls, asking for further information. Almost simultaneously, Laverd radios to say he has Woodhouse on his wife’s telephone.

Miller sets up a three-way conversation with McHenry County and Laverd. Woodhouse describes what landmarks he has passed and what he sees from his position. The connection is broken.

Laverd provides Miller with Woodhouse’s wireless number and his carrier, Cingular Wireless. Miller pages the Cingular on-call worker for critical incidents.

8:15 p.m. Cingular Wireless representative returns call, traces Woodhouse’s number and reports the phone is on roaming status. Miller asks fellow Communications Officer Javier Alanis to apprise Radio Room Supervisor Cpl. Tom Lorenz of the situation and suggest that the Walworth County Sheriff’s Dept. contact US Cellular in Madison, WI, for a trace. Walworth reports US Cellular can’t help.

Miller and cooperating agencies become increasingly convinced Woodhouse is somewhere near the Illinois-Wisconsin border. But where?

Cingular Wireless representative reports she has found the cell code that has been transmitting Woodhouse’s calls. She suggests asking US Cellular to pinpoint the tower.

9:30 p.m. Miller gets the number for US Cellular’s technical-support department. A four-way conversation ensues, involving Miller, Lorenz and two technicians. The transmission tower carrying Woodhouse’s calls is quickly located — Durand, IL, in Winnebago County, 96 miles northwest of Wheeling.

Miller updates Winnebago County Sheriff’s Dept. Winnebago County notifies Illinois State Police and neighboring Stephenson County Sheriff’s Dept. Miller updates other agencies.

10:45 p.m. Winnebago County Sheriff launches a grid search in the areas suggested by US Cellular.

11:35 p.m. Miller obtains a list of Woodhouse’s medications and passes the information to Winnebago County, which announces that Woodhouse has been located, semi-conscious, in his ditched vehicle. Paramedics are dispatched to transport Woodhouse to Rockford Memorial Hospital.

11:48 p.m. Miller advises participants of the development and closes all leads. Woodhouse is hospitalized for observation and treatment of exposure. He had been in the ditch for more than seven hours.

Epilogue. Alan Woodhouse has fully recovered and resumed his life.

Communications Officer Miller has received the Wheeling Police Department’s Lifesaving Award for her actions on March 1 and 2. She also has received special recognition from the Association of Public Safety Communications Officials.

“Christine Miller’s dedication and determination helped save a life,” said Wheeling Police Chief John Popadowski. “Her analytical thinking and mastery of the technology make her a great asset to Wheeling.”

Dundee Rd. Resurfacing Project Delayed

Wheeling, Illinois - July 26, 2002 - The resurfacing of Dundee Rd. in Wheeling has been delayed for about 2½ weeks, according to the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT). The project was scheduled to begin around July 28. However, weather-related delays in Cook County Highway Department's widening of the Lake Cook Rd. railroad bridge had a ripple effect on the Dundee Rd. work.

The Villages of Wheeling and Buffalo Grove, IDOT and Cook County agreed earlier to coordinate and stagger the two projects so that two major east-west highways would not be under construction simultaneously. Cook County Supervising Engineer John Beissel said he expects four lanes to be open by the week of August 12.

The opening of those lanes will trigger the Dundee roadwork. Initially, curb and gutter reconstruction will precede the repaving. The roadbed also will be patched with asphalt. IDOT Area Construction Supervisor Lee Schmidt said much of the patching will be done on weekends to minimize weekday traffic delays. The project involves no night work.

Traffic in the construction zone will be limited to one lane in each direction, Schmidt said. Merchants along the construction zone "will always have in-and-out access. If we have to patch in front of driveways we will provide at least half-access except in circumstances where that isn't possible." Schmidt said concrete curbs and gutters will require two days to cure before they are usable.

The project is expected to take 10 weeks to complete, with a scheduled target date of November 1. "The type of asphalt we're using requires warmer temperatures to cure," Schmidt said, "so we're under some time pressure."

When the Wheeling work section is finished, the resurfacing of Dundee Rd. will be complete. The eight-mile, $5.5 million project extended from work completed last year from Waukegan Rd. east, through Wheeling and Buffalo Grove. to Kennecott Dr. in Arlington Heights. The Wheeling segment is the only portion not yet finished.

Wheeling President Appoints 15 Commissioners, Seeks 4 More

Wheeling, IL -- July 15, 2002 -- Wheeling President Greg Klatecki has reappointed 15 members to seven Village boards and commissions. The members, all residents of Wheeling, serve terms of 2-3 years, depending on their assignments.

"I have made these appointments based on the experience and performance of each individual," Klatecki said. "They've served the village well, and I expect they will build on their records."

The criteria for board-and-commission members include previous public service or volunteer work, relevant job experience, and how well nominees' views of the Village mesh with those of elected officials.

"It's essential to the Village that residents present their views on these boards and commissions," Klatecki said. "They live here and, in many cases, work here. They bring their opinions and the wishes of their neighbors to the public table."

Klatecki invited applications from residents who would like to serve on one of the Village's boards and commissions. Openings exist on the Economic Development Commission, the Board of Health, the Senior Citizens Commission, and the Human Rights Commission.

"We encourage our fellow residents to become involved in these important committees," Klatecki said. "They help guide the Wheeling Board of Trustees in our efforts to move the village ahead."

Committee Appointees (terms shown in parentheses)

Board of Health (3 years) : Pat Drewes, Judith B. Cameron

Economic Development Commission (3) : John R. Flanagan, David Kolssak, Thomas R. Webber

Fire and Police Commission (3): Joseph Ratajczak

Human Rights Commission (2): William Maloney, Gary Hittleman

Plan Commission (3): Steven J. Boime, David S. Cantwell Pam Dorband

Police Pension Board (3) (should be 2 years): Glenn Hartman

Senior Citizens Commission (2): Ida (Dolly) Hein, Virginia Isherwood, Barbara Steinberg

Wheeling Seeks Blood Donors To Help Fill Area-Wide Shortage

Wheeling, Illinois — June 25, 2002 — Levels in Chicago-area blood banks are down, and the Village of Wheeling wants to increase supplies with its July 10 blood drive.

“Many major cities, such as Chicago, typically use more blood than they collect,” said Wheeling Health Officer Mike Boyle. “That means we have to rely on blood shipped from other areas of the country to meet the need. We want to help reduce that reliance with a good turnout next month. Type O-negative, the so-called ‘universal blood type,’ is in especially short supply.”

Donors will be accommodated at the Wheeling Main Fire Station, 255 W. Dundee Rd., from 2:30 until 7 p.m.

Boyle offered several suggestions to make donors’ experience as easy and simple as possible. “People should eat within four hours prior to donating to bring blood levels up in the body,” he said. “Doing so will help make people stable and comfortable for donating.”

Boyle also suggested that donors drink adequate water — up to 12 glasses a day — for several days prior to donating. “Drinking plenty of water hydrates the veins,” he said, “and makes them easier to locate.”

The forthcoming blood drive will be held in cooperation with the American Red Cross, which encourages appointments for the blood drive to provide enough staffing to accommodate donors.

While appointments are encouraged, walk-ins will still be welcome. To make an appointment, call Mike Boyle at 847-459-2621, or e-mail him at mboyle@wheelingil.gov.

Donors must be at least 17 years old. Generally, people in good health are considered acceptable donors, although certain conditions may be grounds for deferral — such as a positive test for HIV (the virus that causes AIDS) , active tuberculosis, history of viral hepatitis after the age of 11, and pregnancy within the preceding six weeks. Other conditions may also cause temporary or permanent deferral.

Wheeling Public Works Department to Reorganize

Wheeling, IL - May 31, 2002 - Winds of change are blowing through the Wheeling Public Works Department. Saddled with a growing list of capital-works projects, the department is moving to streamline its operations with the addition of three engineers, a new Capital Projects Manager, and expanded computer capabilities.

The reorganization, according to Public Works Director Guy Kolberg, will greatly speed the planning and execution of such projects as water main replacement, streetlight installation and the inspection of both public and private improvements. In the process, Kolberg anticipates the Village will save hundreds of thousands of dollars in fees now paid annually to outside consulting firms.

“We need to have instant snapshots of the Village infrastructure,” Kolberg said. “We will gain that capability once maps of streets, storm and sanitary sewers and water mains have been computerized.”

Hiring three engineers familiar with computer-aided-design concepts and software will facilitate the effort to convert paper records to electronic form. Kolberg pointed to the bottlenecks created when such agencies as Illinois Department of Transportation supply the department with plans on computer disks and files. Those files currently can be processed only after they are printed on paper.

“We can’t edit the plans without extensive hand work that slows our efforts and costs money,” Kolberg said.

Kolberg hopes to have the new personnel on board in the next few weeks, in time to support the planning process for the 2003 construction season.

Qualified engineers interested in applying for the new and open positions can obtain an application form by calling the Public Works Department at 847-459-2624.

West Nile Virus Confirmed in Wheeling Dead Crow

Wheeling, Illinois — May 31, 2002 — A dead crow found in Wheeling has tested positive for the West Nile virus, according to Village Health Officer Michael Boyle. It is the second infected bird found in Cook County this year.

The crow had been collected and submitted to the Illinois Department of Agriculture for testing. The Department reported its findings on May 29, Boyle said.

As a result, Village health officials have issued a list of precautionary guidelines to reduce the risk of becoming infected by the virus.  Those guidelines include:

  ·   Stay indoors at dawn, dusk and in the early evening when mosquitoes are most active.

  ·   If you must be outdoors during high-risk times, wear shoes, socks, long pants and a long-
      sleeve shirt.

  ·  Use insect repellent containing 25-35 percent DEET. Apply it sparingly to exposed skin or
     clothing as indicated on the repellent label. Consult a physician before using repellents on
     young children.

  ·  Check residential screens, including porches and patios, and repair any holes.

  ·  Eliminate stagnant water in birdbaths, ponds, flower pots, wading pools, old tires, gutters
     and other receptacles where mosquitoes breed.

  ·  Report any area that remains wet for more than a week to the Northwest Mosquito
     Abatement District at 847-537-2306.

Residents who find dead crows or blue jays should call Mike Boyle at 847-459-2621 or email him at mboyle@wheelingil.gov so the situation can be monitored. Wheeling officials will not collect additional birds.

Residents should dispose of any dead birds. While there is no risk of contracting the virus by handling the remains, health officials still recommend using a plastic bag or shovel to pick up the bird, sealing it in the bag, and depositing it in the garbage for routine pick up.

For more information go to the Wheeling website at www.wheelingil.gov and go to the Public Health Division page, or call Health Officer Michael Boyle at 847-459-2621.

Wheeling Wireless 911 Calls Mushroom

Wheeling, Illinois — May 29, 2002 — Calls are coming in faster, emergency crews are being dispatched sooner, and Wheeling’s emergency response system has moved up a notch. That’s the effect since Wireless 911 went into operation in Wheeling last December at the Fire Department's new dispatch center, which is a joint venture with the Glenview Fire Department.  

"More than two out of three people own wireless telephones,” said Fire Chief Keith MacIsaac. “Before, people had to search for a pay telephone and find the change to operate it. Obviously, that took time. Now we learn about emergencies sooner than we once might have. It saves vital seconds on a call.”

In the last four months, emergency dispatchers have fielded 6,357 9-1-1 calls, of which 4,698 were from wireless sources. From its inception, Wireless 911 surged to around 74 percent of total 9-1-1 emergency calls. That figure jumped to 78 percent in April. Due to the proliferation of wireless telephones, dispatchers have received an average of more than two calls for each incident.

These life-saving advances are only a glimpse of what lies ahead in emergency response. By the end of 2002, dispatchers will be able to pinpoint an emergency location as close as 1,000 feet. Within 3-5 years, MacIsaac estimated, response teams will locate emergencies within 30 feet or less from a caller’s position, thanks to global positioning satellites.

“These future improvements will be a big step forward. They will eliminate the guesswork based on incomplete information from callers who may be under emotional stress. When people tell us they’re near a power tower, for example, we’ll know exactly where to find and help them,” MacIsaac concluded.

Family Fun Faire Scheduled

Wheeling, Illinois — May 9, 2002 — The Wheeling Pavilion Senior Center will hold its annual Family Fun Faire on June 1, from 9 a.m. until 3 p.m. This family event will feature clowns, a rummage sale, raffles and live and silent auctions. An arts-and-crafts sale and a bake sale also will be held. American Enterprise Bank, Corus Bank, Hoyne Savings Bank, Kenny Construction Co. and The Daily Herald are co-sponsoring the Faire. The Senior Center is located at 190 N. First St. For information, call the Senior Center, 847-459-2670.

NW Suburbs to Mark Senior Celebration Day

Wheeling, Illinois — May 9, 2002 — Eight northwest suburbs, including Wheeling, will observe Senior Celebration Day at Randhurst Shopping Center on May 15. The event, scheduled for 9 a.m.-4 p.m., is designed to celebrate the contributions of older adults to the quality of life in local communities. A full range of activities will cover health screenings, legal issues for older adults, voter registration, hearing aid battery checks, identification photos, and fire and crime-prevention tips. Information about senior services will be available. Also on the agenda will be hourly prize drawings, entertainment and complimentary refreshments for the first 500 attendees. For more information, call the Pavilion Senior Center at 847-459-2670.

Dan Ozanich Named Wheeling Community Development Director

Wheeling, Illinois — April 30, 2002 — The Village of Wheeling has filled a top department vacancy by appointing Daniel J. Ozanich as director of community development. He had been acting director since November 2001.

Ozanich, who has been with the Village since 1988, will be responsible for department functions that include building inspection, planning, permits, property maintenance, plan review, zoning,  code compliance, and appearance issues. He will oversee a staff of 16. Previously, he was building director, a position he assumed in 1998.

“The Community Development Director supervises the work of staff members who help assure the long-range planning process, effective project development and building safety throughout the Village,” said Acting Village Manager Jim Grabowski. “Dan Ozanich brings a broad range of experience to the position. His familiarity with the Village ensures an orderly transition and a commitment to Wheeling’s future.”

Ozanich, a 1977 graduate of the University of Illinois, Chicago, is a licensed architect. Prior to joining the Village of Wheeling, he had extensive experience in private-sector enterprises that included manufacturing, construction, engineering and architectural design. He is a Navy veteran who served in the Vietnam conflict.

Wheeling Restaurant Meets with the President

Wheeling, IL — April 25, 2002 — Four staff members of Bob Chinn’s CrabHouse in Wheeling met with President Bush today as part of a group of seven Chicago-area businesses recognized for their efforts to hire former welfare recipients. Chinn’s was the only restaurant chosen by the Welfare-to-Work Partnerships (BizLink - Chicago) to attend the “town hall” meeting at the White House.

The meeting presented the business perspective on welfare reform as part of the Partnerships’ Opportunity to Work Campaign. BizLink reported the initiative will inform Congress, local government agencies, the business community and the public that welfare reform is still a work in progress.

Chinn’s was cited for its Wheeling Retention Project developed in partnership with Inland Die Casting Company, also of Wheeling. The project began about a year and a half ago and includes an English-as-second-language (ESL) component and a food-safety certification program. More than 80 employees have been trained in the ESL classes, while another 26 have received food-safety certification.

“The project has helped us increase productivity and reduce turnover,” said Chinn’s General Manager Frank D’Angelo. “In an industry where turnover can reach 300 percent a year, we haven’t lost a single employee who has finished the program. It gives us a better product and provides people with a sense of purpose.”

ESL participants volunteered for the course and attended classes on their own time. D’Angelo said those who have completed the program “have inspired others to go through it for the first time.”

The Retention Project is seen as a model that can be implemented by the recently organized Restaurant Row Hospitality Group within the Wheeling/Prospect Heights Chamber of Commerce and Industry. The group was formed to promote its 40 member businesses in the hospitality industry and develop educational programs for management and staff.

The hospitality group will produce its first written publication next month in the form of a dining guide to Wheeling dining establishments. The guide and the hospitality group are supported through a partnership with the Village of Wheeling. The dining guide will be available at member restaurants, local convention and visitors bureaus, hotels, banquet halls and many public events.

Mrs. Illinois Recognized by Lt. Gov.

Wheeling, Illinois — April 24, 2002 — Lt. Gov. Corinne Wood has bestowed the Woman of Achievement Award on Wheeling Resident Melissa Kolssak, who was Mrs. Illinois International 2001. Kolssak accepted the award during ceremonies in Chicago.

When Village President Greg Klatecki recommended Kolssak for the award, he pointed to her active support of the hospice ideal. As Wheeling’s representative to the Mrs. Illinois International 2001 pageant, Kolssak was able to carry the hospice message to both a state and an international audience.

Klatecki mentioned Kolssak’s involvement with the family business (Kolssak Funeral Home) as giving her a unique perspective about the need for counseling and support for the families of seriously ill people. She also works with the Rainbow Hospice, in Park Ridge, where she contributes her time at fund-raising events.

Kolssak, 32, has lived in Wheeling for nine years. She grew up in Park Ridge and attended  Main South High School. She is a graduate of Purdue University.

Village Streets and Sidewalks Targeted for Construction

Wheeling, Illinois — April 22, 2002 — Residents in many Wheeling neighborhoods will see infrastructure improvements this year. More than seven miles of roadway are scheduled for work that includes resurfacing improvements, and spot concrete curb and gutter repairs.

A tentative starting date for construction has been set for May 6. The street-paving program will cost $907,000 for work done by Peter Baker & Sons general contractor, of Lake Bluff. The streets affected include those listed below.

STREET LIMITS

Arlington Club:
Arlington Dr.               Entire Roadway – Cobbler Dr. to Cobbler Dr.
Cobbler Ln.                Buffalo Grove Rd. to Arlington Dr.
Hadley Ct.                  Arlington Dr. to cul-de-sac
Brittany Ct.                 Arlington Dr. to Arlington Dr.
Camden Ct.                Arlington Dr. to cul-de-sac
Canbury Ct.                Arlington Dr. to cul-de-sac
Shore Ct.                    Arlington Dr. to cul-de-sac
Nottingham Ct.           Arlington Dr. to Arlington Dr.
Oakmeadow Ct.         Arlington Dr. to cul-de-sac
Orrington Ct.              Arlington Dr. to cul-de-sac
Aldgate Ct.                 Arlington Dr. to cul-de-sac
Cheswick Ct.              Arlington Dr. to cul-de-sac
Fairfield Ct.                 Arlington Dr. to cul-de-sac
Ashton Ct.                  Arlington Dr. to Arlington Dr.
Glengary Ln.               Arlington Dr. to cul-de-sac
Glengary Ct.               Glengary Ln. to cul-de-sac
Tulip Ct.                     Arlington Dr. to cul-de-sac
Braeburn Ct.               Arlington Dr. to cul-de-sac
Seville Ct.                   Arlington Dr. to cul-de-sac
Warwick Ct.               Arlington Dr. to cul-de-sac
Acorn Ct.                    Arlington Dr. to cul-de-sac
Queens Ct.                  Arlington Dr. to Arlington Dr.
Broadway Ct.              Arlington Dr. to Arlington Dr.
Sheridan Ct.                Arlington Dr. to cul-de-sac
Stratford Ct.                Arlington Dr. to Arlington Dr.
Pennsbury Ct.              Arlington Dr. to cul-de-sac
Newburn Ct.               Arlington Dr. to cul-de-sac

Tahoe Village:
Tahoe Circle Dr.          Buffalo Grove Rd.to Lakeview Dr.
Shoshonee Tr.             Lakeview Dr. to West Lodge Tr.
West Lodge Tr.           Shoshonee Tr. to Tahoe Circle Dr.
Pueblo Tr.                   Delaware Tr. to West Lodge Tr.
Delaware Tr.               West Lodge Tr. to dead end
Bow Tr.                       Tahoe Circle Dr. to dead end
Crow Tr.                     South Chippewa Tr. to dead end
Dakota Tr.                   Tahoe Circle Dr. to dead end
Chippewa Tr.               Tahoe Circle Dr. to Tahoe Circle Dr.
Lakeview Dr.               Buffalo Grove Rd. to Lakeview Dr. East

Lakeside Villas:
Lakeside Circle Dr.      Hintz Rd.to Lakeside Circle Dr.
Clearwater Ln.             Lakeside Circle Dr. to dead end
Clearwater Dr.             Lakeside Circle Dr. to dead end
Clearwater Ct.             Clearwater Ln. to Clearwater Dr.
Cedarwood Ln.            Lakeside Circle Dr. to dead end
Cedarwood Ct.            Cedarwood Ln. to dead end
Ivy Ct.                          Barberry Ln. to dead end
Barberry Ln.                 Ivy Ct, to dead end
Bayside Ct.                   Bayside Ln. to Bayside Dr.
Candlewood Ct.           Lakeside Circle Dr. to dead end

Industrial Areas:
Foster Ave.                   Camp McDonald Rd.to Willow Rd.
Willow Rd.                    Wolf Rd. to Foster Ave.
Alderman Ave.              Wolf Rd. to cul-de-sac
Glenn Ave.                     Hintz Rd. to Carpenter Ave.
Shepard Ave.                 Glenn Ave. to dead end

Sidewalk Removal & Replacement Program

For the fifth year, the Public Works Department will remove and replace defective, damaged, and potentially dangerous sidewalk squares. This year the program will focus entirely on the Hollywood Ridge subdivision. Work will begin in late May or early June and will cost$125,000 to complete.

Finance Association Recognizes Village of Wheeling

Wheeling, IL — April 19, 2002 — The Government Finance Officers Association of the United States and Canada (GFOA) has awarded its Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting to the Village of Wheeling.

The association pointed to the Village’s comprehensive annual financial report (CAFR) as meeting the “high standards of the program, including demonstrating a constructive ‘spirit of full financial disclosure’ to clearly communicate its financial story.” GFOA said Wheeling’s approach helps “motivate potential users and user groups to read the CAFR.

The certificate of achievement is the highest recognition in government accounting and financial reporting. This is the 22nd year Wheeling has received the award.

GFOA is a nonprofit professional association serving about 14,000 government finance professionals.

Community Input Sought for Wheeling Comprehensive Plan

Wheeling, Illinois - April 15, 2002 - Wheeling residents will have the chance to help Village planners establish development priorities over the next 10-20 years at a public forum to be conducted by the Plan Commission on May 16. The meeting will begin at 7 p.m. in the Village Hall Councilroom (255 W. Dundee Rd.).

The commission, which has been working since the first of the year to update the Village's comprehensive plan, is seeking input from both long-time residents and newer arrivals, commercial and industrial organizations, community groups and others interested in the Village's future. A variety of issues are under consideration, including:

        *  land-use patterns

        *  development objectives

        *  the possible location of a proposed town center

        *  improving the commercial corridors along Dundee Rd. and Milwaukee Ave.

"This meeting, along with professional guidance from the planning firm Camiros," said Plan Commission Chair Ken Brady, "will help us craft a vision for the future by highlighting Wheeling's strengths, opportunities and challenges as articulated by the community itself."

 Camiros, Ltd., a Chicago-based strategic planning firm with broad experience in comprehensive  and economic planning has laid the groundwork for the May 16 meeting. The company has conducted land-use analyses, identified trends and interviewed members of the Village's boards and commissions.

"What we do," said Jeanne Lindwall, Camiros principal consultant, "provides the 'why' for future activities by identifying what the community wants to see and making recommendations based on that feedback." The plan, when completed early next year, will guide future land use and form the basis for possible realignment of the Village's zoning ordinance.

"We need this plan," said Economic Development Director Bill Whitmer, "to help us focus our efforts in developing the economic infrastructure of Wheeling. The outcome will tell us which sectors need the most attention and where to direct our resources."

Whitmer pointed to the strong commercial and industrial base that already exists in Wheeling as one area that has received attention in recent years. "Those sectors make a significant contribution to the Village tax base," he said. "Without them, residential property taxes would undoubtedly be higher."

Whitmer said the emphasis areas of his department and the EconomicDevelopment Commission will reflect the policy suggested by the comprehensive plan. "If it is the desire of the community for us to center on, say, residential development as a key element for economic growth, that's where we'll go."

Wheeling 2002-2003 Budget in Balance

Wheeling, Illinois — April 15, 2002 — Increasing public safety; maintaining and improving the street, water and sewer infrastructure; and providing top-quality services are the three main priority areas established by the Wheeling Board of Trustees in preparing the 2002-03 Village budget. The $55.3 million budget, which is projected to be in balance, was developed with an eye toward controlling expenditures and maintaining the Village’s fiscal health.

Several indicators provide evidence of Wheeling's financial strength. The rating agencies, Standard and Poor's and Fitch, have recognized Wheeling's financial health with a AA bond rating, one of the highest available to municipalities. In addition, the Village has sufficient reserves to meet three to six months of operating expenditures, and the level of outstanding general obligation debt is well under standards established for communities of similar size.

Where Does the Money Go?

Mostly it goes to areas that directly affect the quality of life for every village resident — streets, sewers, water delivery, police and fire protection. Also included are zoning and planning services, building inspection and plan review, economic development activities, snow plowing, traffic signal and street light maintenance, code enforcement, special events and a number of other services.

Of the total budget, 37.6% ($20.1 million) goes to capital outlay and improvements. Some of the larger projects include:

       • Dunhurst Water main replacement program

       • Street pavement improvements

       • Sidewalk right of way acquisition and sidewalk improvements

       • The acquisition and demolition of flood prone properties

       • Sanitary and storm sewer improvements

       • Completion of the water meter replacement program

       • Funding for an overhead plumbing loan program to reduce sewer
          backups

The budget also provides for the hiring of three firefighter-paramedics and a police officer to provide additional protection for the Village’s growing population.

Where Does the Money Come From?

Property Tax. The Village’s share of the average property-tax bill (about 10 percent) is among the lowest of all taxing agencies.  Property tax revenues, or $7.6 million, represent 14 percent of the total budget.

Sales Tax. Wheeling’s share of the state sales tax, plus the local home-rule sales tax generates $7.1 million, or almost 13 percent of the budget.

Water Sales. The Village receives about $5.6 million (10.1 percent in water and sewer fees. This revenue pays for the cost of delivering water to residents and businesses, as well as the cost of operating and maintaining the water and sewer system.

State Income Tax. The State of Illinois pays the Village $2.5 million as its share of income taxes collected from residents and businesses on a per-capita basis. Telecommunications Tax on telephones, cell phones, fax machines, etc. provides $2.2 million in revenue.

Residents with questions about the budget may call Village Hall, 847-459-2600. A copy of the budget will be available for review at Indian Trails Public Library beginning in June.

Wheeling H.S. Seniors Learn About College Reality

Wheeling, Illinois - March 19, 2002 - Portrayals of college binge drinking and Spring Break excesses may be more myth than reality,  according to the Wheeling Police Safe Communities Program. Armed with a survey of 33 colleges and universities, a team of professionals and students from Eastern Illinois University (EIU) took that message to the senior class at Wheeling High School on March 19.

In a first-of-its-kind program in an Illinois high school, Safe Communities members from the Wheeling Police and Fire Departments arranged for a team of six EIU students to present the findings of a study known as the Illinois Core Baseline 2000, which indicated that stories of heavy drinking on campus are greatly exaggerated.

The study led to the development of an EIU program called SONOR (for "social norms"), in which students provide entertainment and recreational activities as alternatives to risky behaviors. Members of the SONOR program also discuss campus social norms, pointing out
that incoming freshmen shouldn't base their actions on misleading media portrayals.

"Many high school seniors will move on to college campuses next year with a misperception about how college students really act," said Wheeling Safe Communities Coordinator Tom Pilewski. "These incoming college freshmen often get into trouble trying to live up to false expectations."

Pilewski singled out annual media depictions of college students partying during Spring Break. "The reality is that 90 percent of all students work during Spring Break to help pay for their
education," he said, "but that isn't the picture most people see."

In fact, Pilewski said, 35 percent of those responding to the survey said they either did not drink or had fewer than six drinks a year.  Another 42.7 percent reported moderate use, meaning no more than once a week. Averaged across the students who responded, the survey shows that students in the study consume less than four drinks per week.

More than 8,000 Illinois college students participated in the survey by anonymously completing a lengthy questionnaire about many facets of their campus lives, including alcohol use. The survey found that binge drinking is the exception, not the norm, on campus. (Binge drinking is defined as four drinks at one sitting for women and five or more drinks for men in a two-week period.)

More than 1.4 million students nationwide have participated in the Illinois Core Baseline 2000 survey since its inception, with similar results from around the country.

The Wheeling Safe Communities Program is funded through a grant from the Illinois Department of Transportation, Division of Traffic Safety.

Wheeling Fire Department Expands

Wheeling, Illinois — March 14, 2002 — Wheeling Fire Department has added three firefighter-paramedics to staff a new ambulance in the first phase of a three-year expansion. The expansion, when completed, will raise the total emergency personnel in the department to 51 from 42.

“Recent growth in the community and an increase in medical emergency calls has caused paramedics from other departments to fill the gap when our existing ambulances were occupied,” said Fire Chief Keith MacIsaac.  “Additionally, future developments will be of greater density, and we need to be prepared.” The Board of Trustees included money in the General Fund to pay for the expansion, MacIssac said.

The newest firefighter-paramedics include John Bielik, 30, of Arlington Heights, who joins the Wheeling Fire Department after 10 years as certified firefighter in Prospect Heights. Brett Oftedahl, also 30, previously had been a certified firefighter-paramedic in Tinley Park. Matt Pierce, 27, is from Chicago; he had served with the U.S. Navy before accepting his new position in Wheeling.

The second group of three personnel will be hired starting in May, when Wheeling’s new fiscal year begins. The final three will be added later.

This marks the first expansion of the department in 10 years, according to MacIsaac. In addition to the ambulance, personnel also will help staff the department’s ladder tower truck. All emergency personnel in the Wheeling Fire Department are cross-trained as both firefighters and paramedics.

IDOT and Cook County Highway Department Reach Agreement Concerning Coordination of Dundee Road Rehab and Lake Cook Road Bridge Project at Canadian National Railroad

Traffic in Buffalo Grove and Wheeling will flow better this construction season than it otherwise would have, thanks to the coordinated efforts of the Villages of Buffalo Grove and Wheeling and the agencies responsible for arterial roadway construction.

In response to concerns of the Village Boards of Buffalo Grove and Wheeling, Village, County and State officials have reached agreement on coordinating the work schedules for those portions of the Lake Cook Road and Dundee Road construction projects to take place in Wheeling and Buffalo Grove.

Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) has agreed to hold off repair work on the section of Dundee Road between Milwaukee Avenue and Buffalo Grove Road until mid-July when the work on Lake Cook Road has reestablished two lanes in both directions.

Work that is expected to start next month on Dundee Road between Kennicott Road and Waukegan Road is generally planned to be completed by about August 1st, except for the section between Buffalo Grove Road and Milwaukee Avenue, which will start in July and is expected to be completed in September.

This coordination represents a success for the Villages of Buffalo Grove and Wheeling and the Transportation Management Agency of Lake Cook which have been endeavoring to have closer interagency coordination of significant highway improvements.

For additional information, contact:

     ·    John Beissel, Supervising Engineer of the Cook County Highway Department
          (312-603-1612)

     ·    Lee Schmidt, Area Construction Supervisor of the Illinois Department of
          Transportation (847-705-4262)

     ·    Gregory Boysen, Buffalo Grove Director of Public Works (847-459-2547)

     ·    Richard Glenz, Wheeling Village Engineer (847-459-2985)

     ·   William J. Baltutis, Executive Director, TMA of Lake Cook (847-948-4023)

Wheeling to Begin Board Telecasts

Wheeling, IL — February 20, 2002 — The Village of Wheeling will begin televising meetings of the Board of Trustees on March 11. The meetings will be aired live on cable Channel 17 and also taped for later rebroadcast.

The two cameras installed in the Councilroom will be manually controlled. The Village is seeking volunteers to direct the shots and handle such tasks as changing recording media (tape or disk) and other duties as required.

SoundVision of Elgin began installing the cameras, lights and an upgraded sound system in early January. The equipment will automatically determine which microphone is in use and shut off the others. The cameras, which can zoom in and out and pan back and forth, also will be linked to the audio system to focus on the current speaker.

For the present, the videotapes will be archived. Later, the Village anticipates possibly upgrading the system by adding a digital video disk (DVD) recorder for longer recording time and easier storage.

For more information, call Acting Village Manager Jim Grabowski at 847-459-2617.

Road Construction Season:  How it Will Affect Wheeling
 

Wheeling, Illinois — February 13, 2002 — Wheeling’s Dundee Rd. is set for repaving. The McHenry Rd. bottleneck is about to be unblocked. And Wolf Rd. has been targeted for widening.

The Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) plans to begin work on Dundee Rd. in late April or early May. Plans call for patching, milling and repaving the busy Rte. 68 from Kennicott Rd., east of Rte. 53 (Arlington Heights), to Milwaukee Ave. in Wheeling and on to Waukegan Rd. in Northbrook. The project will complete the resurfacing of Dundee Rd. as it connects to a job finished last year from Waukegan Rd. east.

“Since this is not a Village of Wheeling project, unfortunately we have no control over construction schedules,” said Acting Public Works Director Guy Kolberg, “But we recognized the deteriorating condition of Dundee Rd. and encouraged IDOT to resurface the roadbed as soon as practical. There will be temporary dislocation of traffic, but the resulting improvements will provide motorists with smoother driving.”

Plote Construction Co., of Elgin, was the low bidder and has been awarded the $5.5 million contract. Construction is expected to start in early spring, with a completion date set for July 28, 2002. Traffic in the construction zone will be limited to one lane in each direction. Left turns will be prohibited at various times, but so-called “right-in, right-out” turns will not be affected.

Permanent overnight lane closures will occur until July 1 so construction crews can patch the concrete between Kennicott Rd. and Milwaukee Ave. After July 1, crews will work days only, with no nighttime lane closures. IDOT anticipates relatively few repairs to the roadbed, although some manhole covers will have to be raised to be flush with the new surface.

IDOT is also poised to make significant improvements on IL Rte. 83 from Dundee Rd. to Lake Cook Rd. in Wheeling. Construction will begin in late summer or early fall with utility work involving ComEd and Nicor Gas. The $8.1 million project will replace the present current drainage ditches with underground storm sewers. The sewer work will be done in stages, first on one side of the street, then on the other.

The present two-lane roadway will be removed and replaced with four lanes plus a left-turn lane serving both directions. The temporary traffic light at the intersection of McHenry Rd. and Lexington Dr. will become permanent. The intersection of McHenry Rd. and Rte. 83 will be widened and resurfaced. Engineers also will make modifications to the traffic signals. The project will be completed by late fall, 2003, with the exception of tree and shrubbery planting.

The Cook County Highway Department (CCHD) plans to begin work on the highway bridge over the Canadian National Railroad tracks on Lake Cook Rd. as early as mid-February, pending final construction plans. The bridge, between Northgate Pkwy. and Lexington Dr., will be widened, and one additional lane will be built in each direction. A five-foot sidewalk will be installed on the south side of the bridge. An 18-foot sidewalk will be added on the north side to accommodate pedestrians and bicyclists. The north sidewalk will connect with a proposed bicycle trail west of the bridge.

The early sub-structure bridgework will have little impact on traffic. However, CCHD anticipates that, starting in March, traffic will be redirected to two lanes on one side as work proceeds on the remaining two lanes and the construction of a third. The $6.4 million project is scheduled for completion by November 29, 2002.

Looking ahead, IDOT is planning to widen Wolf Rd. with the addition of a left turn lane serving both directions. The work will affect the area between Manchester Dr. and Milwaukee Ave. The project is scheduled for contract letting in late fall, 2003, and will involve the installation of storm sewers and 5-foot sidewalks. The temporary traffic light at the corner of Strong Ave. will become permanent. When IDOT completes the work to the Village’s satisfaction, control of that section will revert to the Village.

Wheeling Plans 2002 Capital Improvements

Wheeling, Illinois — February 6, 2002— Wheeling’s long-term facelift efforts will get a boost in 2002, with the Public Works Department planning several extensive capital-improvement projects.

The Dunhurst I & II subdivisions will see water-main replacement, completing work begun last year. The new  water mains, constructed of ductile iron, replace aging cast-iron pipes that account for a significant failure rate. “This is an ambitious project,” said Water Division Supervisor Scott Lark, "but the residents’ quality of life will improve significantly. We won't have to dig up the parkway anymore, and residents won't lose service when the old mains fail and water service has to be shut off."

Public Works is also embarking on the fourth year of a 10-year program to install street lighting in many neighborhoods. The first three years of the program involved installation of new lighting in areas that were unlit. This year, Public Works may start replacing up to 54 wooden, and often deteriorated, ComEd poles with aluminum poles that are standard elsewhere in the Village. The work will focus on Hollywood Ridge, Poplar Grove and Dunhurst IV subdivisions. State highways under IDOT's control, such as Dundee Rd., are not affected by the lighting program, currently budgeted at $195,000 a year.

"There are no more lighting gaps in the Village. The Village’s subdivisions are fully lighted," said Street Supervisor Jeff Kopper. “Residents appreciate the poles, which are not only brand new but have all the junction wiring enclosed and out of sight.

The recently completed Wheeling Diversion Channel may be modified this year to       accommodate fiber optic cables owned by Ameritech. The phone company wants to install a box culvert at the north end of the channel as a resting place for its cables. Ameritech has committed $275,000 to the project — a joint effort with the Village, whose involvement has yet to be determined.

3 Wheeling Commissioners Take Seats; A Fourth Still Sought

Wheeling, Illinois — February 4, 2002 — Wheeling President Greg Klatecki has named three Village residents to fill vacancies on three commissions.

Steven Boime, 47, formerly a member of the Human Rights Commission, will now sit on the Plan Commission. He is a former president and currently vice president of the Tahoe Village Condominium Association. He is a member of the Willow-Palatine Rd. Community Mobilization Team. An avid bicyclist, Boime is controller of Inplex, custom extruders of plastic tubing and profiles in Des Plaines.

Boime said he wants “to see Wheeling continue to progress and achieve a better quality of life. The Plan Commission is working on the Village’s comprehensive plan, which is a great opportunity to ensure that we are everything we can be in Wheeling.”

David Kolssak joins the Economic Development Commission. A Wheeling resident since age four, Kolssak attended Purdue University, where he received a management degree in 1991. He is managing partner at Turnkey Network Systems in Wheeling. Now 32, Kolssak said,  “I would like to be more aggressive in courting businesses and new technologies to the area. I want to make sure people looking to relocate their businesses look at Wheeling.”

Twenty-eight year resident Barbara Steinberg has taken a seat on the Senior Commission. Before retiring a year and a half ago, she worked for 20 years at Love Controls, an engineering company formerly based in Wheeling. Ms. Steinberg, 64, said she wants to “give back to the community now that our family is grown.” She has been an active volunteer in local schools and at Lutheran Church of the Good Shepherd.

President Klatecki is seeking a suitable replacement to fill Steven Boime’s former seat on the Human Rights Commission.

Wheeling Blood Drive Set for March 13

Wheeling, Illinois — January 22, 2002— The emergency blood supply needs to be replenished. Toward that end, the Wheeling Health Department is hosting a Community Blood Drive on March 13, 2002. The drive will be held at Fire Station 24, 255 W. Dundee Rd., next to Village Hall, from 2:30 until 7 p.m.

“Blood has a limited shelf life,” said Wheeling Health Officer Mike Boyle. “If it isn’t used within 41 days, it must be discarded. Blood that has been ‘turned over’ has to be replaced to maintain a ready supply.”

The forthcoming blood drive will be the first to be held in cooperation with the American Red Cross. The change was made to improve efficiency of the collection process.

Appointments for the blood drive are encouraged, although walk-ins will still be welcome. To make an appointment call Village Health Officer Michael Boyle at 847-459-2621, or e-mail him at mboyle@wheelingil.gov.

“We are interested in attracting both past donors and those who have never donated blood before,” Boyle said. “We need eligible donors.”

Wireless 911 Service Launched in Wheeling

Wheeling, Illinois — January 18, 2002 — Wireless 911 service has arrived in Wheeling for cell phone and personal communication users. The system provides immediate access to both fire and police departments during emergency situations.

Before the system was fully implemented in late December, callers were required to contact their wireless operators, who attempted to route the call to the appropriate public safety agency.  If callers dialed 911 on their cellular phone, they received a recording that the service was not available in this area. Now, the nearest transmission tower takes the wireless 911 call and routes it to the dispatch center.

Wheeling shares its system with the Village of Glenview, which hosts the primary equipment facility. The state-of-the-art installation provides dispatchers with the caller’s wireless number, the name of the registered user, location of the transmission tower, and the direction of the call from the tower (north, south, etc.).

The project required the installation of new receiving equipment and multiple phone lines in the new dispatch center, located in the Glenview Fire Department, as well as development of a computer database based upon the geographic boundaries of the Village of Wheeling.

“Most wireless emergency calls eventually involve the fire department,” said Wheeling Fire Chief Keith MacIsaac. “Police calls are immediately routed to Wheeling Police Department dispatchers.” 

MacIsaac anticipates that, as technology advances, the system will be tied into global positioning satellites within the next five years. “When that happens, we’ll be able to pinpoint the caller’s position within a few feet instead of several yards.”

Begun in 1999, the project required coordination with all wireless providers and potential receivers of calls (such as Cook and Lake County Sheriff’s Departments; Illinois State Police; the Village of Northbrook; and Northwest Central Dispatch, which covers Prospect Heights, Arlington Heights and Buffalo Grove).

During the development period, the number of service providers shrank from 11 to seven due to consolidations and takeovers. The providers currently serving Wheeling include Cingular, Primeco, AT& T Wireless, Voicestream, Verizon, Sprint PCS, and Nextel. The recent conclusion of agreements with two companies gave the Village universal 911 service.

The system is funded with a monthly surcharge of 75 cents on every cellular phone with a billing address in the Village. More than half, 48 cents, goes to Wheeling to pay for the dispatching service and maintenance of dispatch-center equipment.  The balance is retained by the wireless providers to maintain routing equipment and continue enhancing the 911 service.  The funding rate and distribution formula are stipulated by state law.

Wheeling Resident to Compete in the NFL/Gatorade Punt Pass and Kick Contest

Wheeling, Illinois – January 18, 2002 – Wheeling resident Bridget Urbanus will compete in the NFL/Gatorade Punt, Pass, and Kick Contest in Pittsburgh this Sunday morning (January 20), prior to the AFC Divisional Playoff Game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Baltimore Ravens.  Bridget is nine years old.

In order to make the trip to Pittsburgh, Bridget had to win local contests in the Chicago area.  She is one of the four girls who will compete for national honors.  Bridget and the other contestants are scheduled to appear on-field during halftime, with the announcement of the contest winners scheduled to be made between the 3rd and 4th quarters.

The Steelers/Ravens game will be televised on CBS (Channel 2) beginning at 11:30 a.m.

Wheeling Seeks Guidance from Residents

Wheeling, Illinois — January 14, 2002 — The Village of Wheeling is looking for a few, good residents interested in helping guide the Village’s future. Currently, openings exist on the Plan Commission, the Economic Development Commission and the Senior Commission.  All commissions serve as an advisory body to the President and Board of Trustees, with respect to the general welfare of the citizens in the Village

The seven members of the Plan Commission are preparing a comprehensive plan to guide, direct and control growth and development or redevelopment of the Village. The Commission also acts as the Sign Code Board of Appeals and the Appearance Review Commission.

The Plan Commission routinely holds hearings to review proposed site plans for commercial, industrial, and retail developments within the Village. The commission conducts hearings and makes recommendations to the Village Board.

The nine Economic Development Commissioners promote economic growth within the Village. In conjunction with the Director of Economic Development, they identify and evaluate business development or redevelopment, help prepare promotional materials, develop marketing strategies to retain existing businesses and attract new ones. Filling vacant buildings and attracting new companies who want to build on available land are priorities for these commissioners.

Senior Commissioners guide the activities of the Pavilion Senior Center, overseeing the needs of older residents. The commission serves as an advisory body to the President and Board of Trustees, the Village Manager, and other government agencies with respect to the general policies of the Pavilion Senior Center.

Members of Wheeling commissions are appointed by Village President Greg Klatecki. Terms are three years on the Plan and Economic Development Commissions and two years on the Senior Commission.

Applications are available on the Wheeling website at /ReferenceDesk/FormsAndPermits.asp#Municpal. Then click on Municipal Forms. Applications also may be picked up during normal business hours at Village Hall, 255 W. Dundee Rd.

Wheeling Prepares for 2002 Citizens Police Academy

Wheeling, Illinois — December 19, 2001 — How do Wheeling police officers patrol the streets? How does an evidence technician operate? How often do officers qualify in the shooting range? Those questions and many more will be answered during the eighth annual Citizens Police Academy, which begins February 6, 2002. The ten-week program will provide participants with first-hand information on topics ranging from how department units function to law enforcement and community policing.

“The Academy promotes understanding between citizens and the police through education,” said Sgt. Terrie Wisnewski, who heads the Crime Prevention Unit. “We acquaint citizens with the role of law enforcement in the criminal justice system and provide insight into the operations of daily police work.”

Academy instructors are drawn from department officers and personnel, who teach their own areas of expertise. The instructors have broad training and experience, and the officers bring street experience into the classroom.

The initial session will include an introduction, an orientation and the history and organization of the police department. In the weeks that follow, instructors will explain such units as Patrol, Traffic, Crime Prevention/Community Relations, DARE and Investigations. Law-enforcement issues to be covered span domestic violence, child abuse, use of force, major crimes and community policing.

Participating in the Academy requires a commitment of one night a week for the ten-week period. Classes are held one night a week from 7:00-9:30 p.m. at Village Hall, 255 W. Dundee Rd.

At the end of the Academy participants will ride in a patrol car for one shift to experience first-hand what officers see and hear, and how they apply their training. 

Any Village resident over the age of 21 may apply for the Academy. To apply, call or e-mail for an application. A printable application is available on the Forms and Permits page in the Reference Desk section of the Village Web site (/ReferenceDesk/FormsAndPermits.htm#PoliceDepartmentForms). You will be notified if you are selected for the next session. There is no charge for the Academy.

Senior Center Asks Churches to Reach Out

Wheeling, Illinois — December 18, 2001 — The Pavilion Senior Center has enlisted the aid of local churches to help improve the quality of life for older people. At a recent meeting with Pavilion Social Worker Jan Christiansen, the leaders of four churches volunteered to recruit members of their congregations to reach out to those over age 65.  

The clergymen will ask their congregations to provide one-time or occasional services, such as friendly visiting, escort transportation, grocery shopping, or contributing to a Giving Tree for seniors who need help. Christiansen will assess the seniors in need and refer those people to the churches.

Christiansen pointed out that seniors now account for 13 percent of the population. “They’re living longer and staying at home,” she said  

The ministers involved represented Amazing Grace Fellowship, Calvary English Chapel, the Korean Christian Reformed Church and the former Community Presbyterian Church.  

Sabre Joins the Force

Wheeling, Illinois — December 17, 2001 — Sabre is an eager, young pup, raring to go. A genuine German police dog born in Germany, he’s alert and panting with anticipation as Wheeling Officer Mike Porzycki freezes. Sabre halts in mid-pant, waiting, eyes darting warily. Then the command comes: “TAKE him!” Sabre lunges, and Porzycki unleashes the dog.

Sabre is the latest addition to the Wheeling P.D. He and Porzycki have just completed eight weeks of intense training at Tops Kennels in Grayslake, which has been training dogs for 28 years. Tops takes advantage of Sabre’s natural play drive and uses it as motivation to find drugs and pick up human scent.

The cooperation between these two partners is precise. Man and dog are locked on one objective: the suspect. It’s the way they fight crime in the Wheeling Police Department’s 14-year-old Canine Unit. Now, the new team is officially on patrol, where Sabre strikes fear in the hearts of thieves, robbers and raiders. That’s the idea.

“A well-trained dog can detect and locate drugs, find evidence, and apprehend offenders who believe they have outwitted the police,” said Porzcycki.

Dogs have played a significant role in Wheeling’s crime-fighting efforts since 1987. Sabre’s predecessor, Nitro, retired in early 2001. He had reached his golden years, and it was time for a rest. It took from then until now to identify a suitable replacement dog and train him and his handler, Porzycki, for work on the streets that are the precinct of The Night Shift.

“Lots of things go on after dark,” said Porzycki. “Sabre gives us the ears and the nose that we
humans don’t naturally have to detect things that go bump in the night.”

Sabre is a German shepherd, one of the best breeds for this work, born in Germany in 1999. He migrated to the U.S. in 2000 and began his training this year. He attracted the attention of trainers looking for the qualities that comprise a top-quality police dog. He had that alertness, that attention to detail, that play drive.

“Nitro had it for nine years. He earned his place.” said Porzycki. “I anticipate Sabre will serve residents for at least that long.”

Police handlers retire from the Canine Unit when their dogs do. That’s what happened with Nitro and his partner, Officer Randy Olsberg. The dogs, whether on active duty or in retirement, become part of the family. When their crook-hunting days are over, they sprawl by the fire, remembering what it was like when the pup was young and raring to go.

Wheeling Police Enlarge RAD Program

Wheeling, Illinois — December 12, 2001 — The Wheeling Police Department has expanded its Rape Aggression Defense (RAD) program to include elementary-school children. The new classes, conducted exclusively in the schools, are an outgrowth of the two-year-old adult RAD course, in which 12-16 women students learn basic techniques to defend themselves in case they are attacked.

“We don’t teach them to become martial artists,” said Officer Dorann Swanson, one of the instructors, “but we do show them how to become more aware of their surroundings. They also learn a few basic moves to surprise and escape from an attacker.”

Swanson estimates hundreds of women have gone through the adult program since its inception. “The participants have told us they’re more confident they can defend themselves if need be. Just as important, they have a heightened sense of awareness about people around them in public places.”

The four-week program, conducted throughout the year, resumes on January 9 and will be held on four successive Wednesdays. The 12-hour course, taught by three officers and offered without charge to participants, is funded by a Department of Justice Local Law Enforcement Block Grant administered by the Judicial Advisory Board of the Cook County Board of Commissioners.

The children’s RAD program began this year with classes at Mark Twain and Field Elementary Schools. Classes are divided into a section for 5-7-year-olds and another for 8-10-year-old children. Both boys and girls are included.

“The children’s program is aimed at preventing abduction and teaching kids basic safety skills,” said Swanson. “The kids’ program isn’t as physical as the adult classes, although they do learn some physical know-how. Mostly we teach them to beware of friendly strangers and the tactics they use to lure children to go with them.”

To register or obtain more information about the RAD women’s or RAD kids’ program, contact Officer Swanson at 847-459-2693.

Wheeling Police Officers to Greet Christmas Trains

Wheeling, Illinois — December 4, 2001— When METRA Christmas trains begin rolling into Union Station in Chicago on Sunday, December 9, members of the Wheeling Police Department will be on hand to reprise their traveling railroad crossing safety program. Led by Corporal Tom Lorenz, the three-person team will be part of METRA’s fifth annual Safety Train event.

The Wheeling officers will staff an exhibit in the atrium of the downtown railway depot focusing on raising public awareness about the do’s and don’ts of interacting with trains. The Officer McGruff character popular with children will appear.

“We take this exhibit to as many public locations as possible,” said Lorenz, who supervises the Wheeling 911 Center and also is responsible for railroad safety in the village. “METRA representatives saw it at a Randhurst event earlier this year and asked us to participate with the Christmas trains.”

METRA anticipates having a number of booths and activities of interest to families during the day-long occasion, including music, raffles, prizes and safety presentations. Children will receive goody bags filled with coloring books, crayons, candy and toys. Nine trains will operate on six Chicago-area rail lines.

The North Central Christmas train will depart from the Wheeling train station at 12:07 p.m. on Sunday and return at 4:11 p.m. The fare is $3 for round-trip tickets, which must be purchased in advance at any train station with a ticket agent, such as Deerfield, Northbrook or Glenview.

“There have been no railroad-vehicle accidents in Wheeling for a number of years,” said Lorenz, “and we want to maintain that record by regularly educating the public about the need for safety.”

Lorenz will be joined by Sgt. John Teevans and Evidence Property Officer Peter Rodgers.

Wheeling Install Telephone Emergency Notification System

Wheeling, Illinois — December 3, 2001 — The Village of Wheeling has installed a new computer-based system that gives local safety officials the capability to advise residents of emergencies in their neighborhoods.  The “high-speed telephone notification system” can target areas down to individual blocks with pre-recorded messages.

Funded by a $38,000 Local Law Enforcement Block Grant from the U.S. Department of Justice as awarded by the Cook County Board of Commissioners, the system will provide instant communication between officials and residents within an emergency zone. 

Once an area has been defined by geographic mapping software, emergency officials can record a call to all homes in predefined area.  The system will continue dialing in the event of a busy signal, or if it gets no answer, it will keep trying until it does.

“This system,” said Corporal Tom Lorenz, who heads communications for the Wheeling Police Department, “can target specific areas to advise residents of such emergencies as a lost child, flooding, even road closings, in a certain part of town.”

Lorenz said the system is an enhancement of a community-oriented police initiative called “VISION” (Very Important Scouts in Our Neighborhood), which is comprised of citizen volunteers working with the police department in crime detection and prevention.

“The system will, with VISION and Neighborhood Watch groups, improve the flow of information between residents and safety officials,” Lorenz said.

Wheeling Police tested the system on November 25 to alert an estimated 6,500 residents that fireworks would be fired during the annual Festival of Lights celebration at Village Hall. The police department credits the system for reducing to a handful the number of calls to 9-1-1 by concerned residents during the fireworks display.

The system, known as “CityWatch,” was manufactured and installed by Avtex, based in Minneapolis.

Wheeling Resumes Siren Testing

Wheeling, Illinois — November 28, 2001 — The Village of Wheeling will resume monthly emergency-siren tests on December 4, 2001. The tests were temporarily suspended after September 11 to allay public concerns about unusual events.

While other area communities resumed testing on November 6, Wheeling officials opted to wait an additional month because several of the sirens are near schools.

“We wanted people to regain their equilibrium before resuming these necessary tests,” said Fire Chief Keith MacIsaac. “But we also want everyone to be aware of the sirens in the event of a natural or other emergency.”

The tests are conducted statewide on the second Tuesday of every month at 10 a.m.

Wheeling Park Proposal Set for Public Hearing

Wheeling, Illinois — November 26, 2001 — The Wheeling Board of Trustees will hold a hearing on November 26, 2001, to solicit public comments on a new park proposal for the village’s “gateway intersection” at the corner of Dundee Rd. and Milwaukee Ave. The meeting will begin at 7:30 p.m.

“We have looked at various proposals for that intersection,” said Village President Greg Klatecki, “and this one appears promising. But we want to get reaction from residents of the Village. This park — whatever form it finally takes — will be the people’s park, and we’re anxious to hear from them.”

The proposal first surfaced at a board meeting on November 12. If it, or a variation, is finally approved, preliminary work could begin immediately. The target date for completion has been tentatively set for July 4, 2002, depending on planning, engineering, construction and weather.

Wheeling Fire Department Seeks Hydrant Buddies

Wheeling, Illinois — November 20, 2001 — The Wheeling Fire Department is looking for some buddies — hydrant buddies. In a move aimed at keeping fire hydrants clear of snow and debris during the winter months, the department is asking for help with its “Hydrant Buddy” program.

The department is asking students in the village’s grade and middle schools to join the program. Volunteers will choose a fire hydrant near their homes. They will keep a three-foot circle open around the hydrant and a clear path to the street. Certificates will be presented to each Hydrant Buddy who keeps a fire hydrant clear. Young Hydrant Buddies may need adult supervision or help from an older sibling.

“Open access to fire hydrants is essential for firefighters to respond quickly to an emergency,” said Fire Chief Keith MacIsaac. “During snowy weather, they have to search to find covered fire hydrants, which can cause delays in extinguishing a fire.”

Each fire hydrant in the village is numbered and will be assigned to individual participants, who may sign up for more than one hydrant. “But please don’t sign up for more than you can handle,” MacIsaac cautioned.

Anyone interested in becoming a Hydrant Buddy can get more information and request applications from the Wheeling Fire Department at 847-459-2662.

IDOT Lauds Wheeling Safe Communities Coalition

Wheeling, IL — November 19, 2001— The Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) has bestowed its Excellence in Highway Safety Award on the Wheeling Police Department’s Safe Communities Program. The award was presented at the annual Lifesaver Conference held in Springfield, IL

IDOT recognized Wheeling police efforts in lowering traffic-accident injuries, increasing safety belt usage and intensifying enforcement against drunk drivers. IDOT extolled a successful youth summit on alcohol and drug issues conducted last year and the Village’s innovative pre-prom programs

Tom Pilewski, who heads the Safe Communities Program, said, “This award goes to the entire community, not just police enforcement. Many of the education and awareness programs have been spearheaded by the Wheeling Fire Department, Wheeling Neighborhood Watch groups and the Citizens Police Academy Alumni Association.”

Pilewski said businesses participated in community-education activities by notifying employees about various traffic-safety programs throughout the year. Some businesses also joined in the annual pre-prom presentation at Wheeling High School staged by the Safe Communities Program and the Wheeling Fire Department.

“These programs are successful,” he said, “because of the combined efforts of a broad-based coalition of 40 member organizations including government agencies, business groups, the schools, neighborhood groups and the park district.”

A new Safe Communities push will begin the weekend of November 24-25 with a series of roadside safety checks. That effort will lead into the beginning of National Drunk and Drugged Driver Prevention Month, which will see a month of aggressive enforcement against impaired driving. z

On November 26 Wheeling resident John Mikusch will make a presentation to the Board of Trustees thanking police and paramedics for saving his life following a near-fatal car accident on Nov. 26, 2000.Z

“Quick action on the part of police and paramedics not only saved his life but may have prevented him from becoming paralyzed,” Pilewski said.

Wheeling Businesses Expand Facilities

Wheeling, Illinois — November 16, 2001 — Recent business expansions have filled 164,000 square feet of existing space in Wheeling, with an additional 125,000 square feet under construction, Wheeling Economic Development Director Bill Whitmer announced. The expansions will create at least 144 jobs.

Block and Company, a supplier to the banking industry, has leased a 100,000-square-foot building at 311 Gilman St. to increase its warehousing capacity. The company needed the additional capability after rolling the manufacturing operations of Steelmaster/Lit-ning into former warehouse space in Block’s main facility at 1111 S. Wheeling Rd. Block recently purchased Steelmaster/Lit-ning, of North Carolina, from Cardinal Brands Inc. The Gilman St. building had been vacant for nearly a year and a half after the Crate & Barrel housewares chain moved out. The broker for the deal was Ron Behm at Colliers, Bennett and Kahnweiler Inc.

Block manufactures cash drawers, key-control systems, currency counters and counterfeit detectors, among other products. The acquisition and subsequent expansion will add 24 jobs to the Block payroll. Block also maintains another facility, at 370 Alice St., where paper products are printed and warehoused by the company’s MMF Industries unit.

North American Jet, a fixed-base operator at Palwaukee Airport, is constructing a 35,000- square-foot building that will include a 25,000-square-foot hangar and 10,000 square feet of office space to serve an expanded customer base. The addition will more than double the size of the company’s original Palwaukee installation, which was completed in November 1999. North American Jet provides aviation maintenance services at airports in Northern Illinois. The company, which operates a second facility in Kenosha, WI, also offers air-charter services worldwide.

The Burrows Company has signed a three-year lease on a free-standing building at 301 Holbrook Rd. The 64,000-square-foot distribution center joins eight others operating in six states. Burrows provides products and services to the healthcare industry. The move adds an additional 20 employees to the roster at Burrows, which is headquartered at 230 W. Palatine Rd. Don Jaffe at Paine-Wetzel brokered the deal. Wieland Metals, a distributor of fabricated steel products, is adding a 90,000 sq. ft. extension to its existing plant at 567 Northgate Pkwy. The expansion has triggered a search for employees with a technical background.

“Whatever else may be going on with the national economy” said Wheeling Economic Development Director Bill Whitmer, “interest in Wheeling remains high.”

In a related development, Inland Die Casting Corp is currently adding 100 employees as part of a plant expansion that will include connecting buildings and making capital investments in equipment.

Wheeling Festival of Lights Set for November 25

Wheeling, Illinois — November 14, 2001 — The holiday season will get its official launch in Wheeling on November 25, when residents gather at Village Hall for the fifth annual Festival of Lights celebration. Plans are to mark the festivities with a fireworks display on the playing field next to Village Hall. The President and Board of Trustees and Village staff invite all residents to attend the festival at 6 p.m.

“We’re expanding the event this year,” said Trustee Judy Abruscato, who heads the Special Events Committee. “The Holmes Junior Middle School Chorus will sing holiday carols. And in recognition of Hanukkah, we’re happy to have Rhonda Wehner leading a children’s chorus in songs of the season from the Jewish tradition.”

A continuing tradition will be the arrival of Santa and Mrs. Claus and the illumination of the Village’s 75,000 light display. New holiday figures will be added to the carolers, red ribbons and pine roping that have characterized previous displays.

Hot chocolate and cookies will be served. Coloring books and glow necklaces will be available for the children. Crews from the Public Works Department have hung holiday banners bearing a holiday motif on light posts around the Village.

“The holiday season is especially important for us this year,” Abruscato said. “It’s a time for us to celebrate traditional festivities. But it’s also a time for us to come together and appreciate the warmth and solidarity of our community.”

For more information, contact Trustee Abruscato at 847-541-8783.

Task Force to Discuss "Fabulous Fables"

Wheeling, Illinois — October 30, 2001 — Young and old alike will share ideas and swap “Fabulous Fables” on November 5, when they convene for the first meeting of the Wheeling Intergenerational Task Force at Indian Trails Public Library. It is a community-wide effort to give multiple generations a chance to interact and learn from each other.

Maureen Statland, of the University of Illinois Extension office in Rolling Meadows, will headline the program, beginning at 10 a.m. Her presentation, “Aging Diversity,” will discuss how people age differently.

Karolyn Nance, Librarian/Children’s Programmer at Indian Trails, will read a fable to lead into that part of the program. The attendees will be divided into groups to talk about other fables and the moral of each.

The Intergenerational Task Force is a workshop partnership of local organizations that include the Wheeling Pavilion Senior Center, the library, Horizons Children’s Center, Northwest Community Hospital’s Adult Daycare Center and Vanguard School. The Task Force was supported by an education grant from the Illinois Department on Aging, which sought to compile model programs that can be duplicated elsewhere. Six other teams from around the state also were included.

“We plan to meet every other month,” said Nancy Janssen, Wheeling Director of Senior Services. “It’s a terrific way to bring people together across the generations, from little kids and teens to seniors in the Village.”

Two Wheeling Heads Retire

Wheeling, Illinois — October 30, 2001 — The Village of Wheeling is saying good-bye to two veteran department heads. Community Development Director Michael J. Klitzke retired on October 17 after serving in that position for 14 years. Public Works Director Robert D. Gray, Jr., will retire at the end of October.

Klitzke’s tenure in Community Development was signified by advances in Village flood protection. A registered professional engineer and a member of the Association of State Floodplain Managers, Klitzke joined the Village staff as senior engineer in 1979. He received numerous awards for his work in the field of floodplain management. He will become a consultant for the Federal Emergency Management Agency in Wisconsin.

Gray, a graduate civil engineer, joined the Wheeling Community Development Department in 1973 as Senior Engineer. He became Public Works Director five years later. He has overseen a far-reaching public works program from six divisions spanning water, streets, and sewers, to engineering, a fleet of vehicles and maintenance of Village buildings and grounds. During Gray’s watch, an extensive street-lighting program began, miles of storm sewers and water mains were upgraded, and dozens of streets and sidewalks were updated.

Searches are under way to find replacements for the two officials

New Trailer Beefs Up Child Safety-Seat Program

Wheeling, Illinois — October 30, 2001 — A new, $2800 specialty trailer has been added to the Wheeling Police Department’s child safety-seat inspection program.

The trailer, donated by Bill Stasek Chevrolet, will be used to transport the program’s extensive array of training materials that include 55 child safety seats and training manuals supplied by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). Also part of the setup are an automobile bench seat and a captain’s chair used to demonstrate the proper installation of the safety seats.

Previously, Stasek had supplied vehicles for the safety-seat inspections on an as-needed basis. The trailer can remain stocked, eliminating the need to load and unload the materials for each event. The dealership, which purchased the unit from a long-time supplier of truck beds, will continue to provide minivans to pull the trailer. Stasek also donated the signs and lettering that identify the vehicle.

The Wheeling Police program spearheaded the inspection of more than 2200 child seats in the last year. Led by Corporal Michael Rompala and Officer Dorann Swanson, teams conduct car-seat checks at hospitals for prospective parents, at preschools and community events. Additionally, Rompala and Swanson teach a 32-hour NHTSA Child Passenger Safety Technician course at local police departments and colleges.

“We greatly appreciate Bill Stasek’s generosity,” said Rompala. “As a result, the process of conducting these events will become more streamlined and efficient.”

Wheeling Police Grant Tops $200,000

Wheeling, IL — October 30, 2001 — The Wheeling Police Department recently received new and recurring grants totaling $202,612 to fund special programs.

The Village’s traffic-enforcement and traffic-education programs will be partially funded by a Safe Communities grant in the amount of $72,848 from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration and administered by the Illinois Department of Transportation. The grant, matched by $67,678 from the Village, provides for roadside safety checks; child safety-seat inspections; drunk- and drug-driving awareness programs at Wheeling High School; and attention to school-zone enforcement issues.

The State of Illinois’ Criminal Justice Information Authority awarded the department $9,496 as part of its Juvenile Accountability Incentive. The money will pay for a part-time social worker to support juvenile justice initiatives.

“The objective of the program,” said Commander Eric Larson, “is to keep at-risk kids out of trouble by providing for counseling services. The social worker will head that effort.”

A Local Law Enforcement Block Grant from the U. S. Department of Justice
funds Wheeling’s Project BADGE (Balanced Approach to Drug and Gang Elimination) program. Cook County administers the program and awards the funds to 24 suburban communities, Wheeling will receive $51,969. The money pays for outreach programs to Wheeling youth, such as the annual PACT Police and Children Together) Camp, and other mentoring programs.

Wheeling Hunkers Down for Winter

Wheeling, Illinois — October 24, 2001 — The Wheeling Public Works Department has stockpiled 500 tons of salt in preparation for winter snow. It is part of an 1,800-ton total budgeted for the snow season, which normally lasts from November until the end of March.

Last season, crews distributed 2,200 tons of road salt on municipal streets for snow and ice control. “The higher-than average use was due in part to the record snowfall experienced in December 2000,” the department said in its annual report on goals and accomplishments.

Public Works fields 38 pieces of snow-removal equipment that is deployed on 65 miles of Village streets. The department also will clear an additional 1.51 miles of Wheeling Township highways, for which the township will reimburse the Village almost $3,800.

Other local streets are the responsibility of either state or county agencies. The Illinois Department of Transportation (847-705-4222) plows Dundee Rd., Elmhurst Rd., Milwaukee Ave., McHenry Rd., Palatine Rd., Aptakisic Rd. and Wolf Rd. from Manchester Dr. north to Milwaukee Ave. and south of Marquardt Dr.

The Cook County Highway Department (847-827-1164) clears Lake-Cook Rd., Schoenbeck Rd., Hintz Rd., Camp McDonald Rd., Buffalo Grove Rd.., Old Buffalo Grove Rd., and Wheeling Rd. south of Palatine Rd.

More Donors Expected For Wheeling Blood Drive

Wheeling, Illinois — October 23, 2001 — The Wheeling Board of Health anticipates collecting 100 units of blood at its November 14 blood drive. (2:30-8:30 p.m., Fire Station 24, next to Village Hall at 255 W. Dundee Rd.) This compares with 40 units donated during the July campaign.

Health Office Mike Boyle attributed the anticipated increased donor turnout to widespread publicity about the rising need for blood due to the East Coast terrorist attacks.

“For that reason,” he said, “appointments are necessary to ensure that LifeSource, the blood collection agency, has the proper equipment and staff available.”

For information and scheduling, please call the Wheeling Health Department at 847-459-2621.

Capital Improvements Wind Down

Wheeling, Illinois — October 22, 2001 — The Village of Wheeling has partially completed one major capital-improvement project, while a second is targeted for completion in early November.  The conclusion of the projects marks the end of the Village’s major construction activities for 2001.

The Public Works Department contracted with DuroPave Construction Company to complete paving in the Dunhurst subdivision. Work had been delayed for some months due to contractor problems unrelated to DuroPave. Remaining trench materials were removed. The pavement restoration was completed on October 19.

Another project in its final stage involves the William Rogers Memorial Diversion Channel, which was begun in the spring. An additional inlet may be installed near Wolf Ct. to eliminate problems of standing water. It is expected that work, plus seeding and final grading of the channel, will be finished by November 3. The project will provide an outlet for water overflows associated with a 10-year flood.

Engineering plans are under way for the 2002 construction season, when 14,400 feet of water mains will be replaced in Dunhurst as one of the largest water-main projects undertaken by the Village.

Wheeling Officials Suggest Alternatives To Traditional Trick-or-Treating

Wheeling, IL – October 17, 2001 – Wheeling public-safety officials are encouraging parents to oversee their children’s Halloween trick-or-treat activities more closely this year.

Citing current concerns about public health and safety, Police Chief John Popadowski and Fire Chief Keith MacIsaac suggest that parents guide their children to trick-or-treating at the homes of friends, relatives and trusted neighbors. They further recommend adult-supervised neighborhood parties instead of traditional door-to-door visits to homes in unfamiliar neighborhoods.

“We’re making these recommendations to help parents safeguard their children’s best interests,” the two chiefs said. “A few simple precautions will ensure a safe Halloween for small trick-or-treaters.”

The Village has designated 3-7 p.m. as trick-or-treat hours on October 31.

Mondschain Named Wheeling Finance Director

Wheeling, Illinois — October 17, 2001 — Michael Mondschain, anaward-winning municipal finance executive, will become Director of Finance for the Village of Wheeling on October 22.

Mondschain, 33, brings eight years’ experience in municipal finance to the position. He is currently Assistant Director of Finance for the Village of Lombard. The Illinois Government Finance Officers Association has recognized him with its Distinguished Budget Award for budget preparation.  He was educated at Northern Illinois University, where he majored
in political science and sociology. He later earned a Master of Public Administration degree at NIU, with an emphasis in fiscal administration. He also has taken courses in accounting.  

Born in Tampa, FL, Mondschain has lived in the Chicago area since early childhood. Mondschain resided first in Lombard and later in Deerfield before moving with his wife, Melissa, to Wheeling in 2000.

An avid exercise enthusiast, Mondschain plays 12-inch softball and volleyball. He is also a runner who has participated in various foot races. He actively supports Habitat for Humanity, to which he has contributed and done volunteer work rehabilitating an apartment building in downtown Chicago.  “I entered government service because I’m interested in public policy,” he said. “Municipal government is a great place to make a difference in the community.”

Mondschain will replace Robert Fialkowski, who resigned in June.

Wheeling Changes Permit and Ticketing Procedures
 

Wheeling, Illinois — October 16, 2001 — The Village of Wheeling has discontinued the sale of permits and commuter-train debit cards at the Metra train station. All sales will be made at Village Hall, 255 W. Dundee Rd. To accommodate early commuters, the Finance Department will open at 5:30 a.m. the last two Tuesdays of each month. Usual weekday business hours are 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m., and 8 a.m.-7 p.m. on Wednesday.

Concurrently, the Village has installed a second machine in the train station to accept the debit cards. The move came in an effort to improve ticketing procedures.

Palwaukee Airport Set to Begin Weekend Closings

Wheeling, Illinois — October 15, 2001 — Palwaukee Municipal Airport plans to begin reconstruction of its main runway on October 26. The runway will be closed from 10 p.m. Friday until 6 a.m. on Monday, October 29. The initial work, expected to take 3-4 weekends, involves the installation of storm-sewer pipes and electrical ducts across the runway.

It will be the first of 26 anticipated weekend closings. Construction will be suspended for the winter, starting in November, and resume in early May 2002.

The work will encompass significant safety improvements, including the complete reconstruction of the runway, installation of a grooved surface to prevent hydroplaning during inclement weather and the addition of a new runway lighting system.

Also included in the project is the replacement of reflective runway guidance signs with lighted versions. The signs indicate the location of taxiways and runways, and include so-called “distance-to-go” markers, which inform pilots how much runway remains upon landing.

Portions of the runway located within a flood plain will be raised three feet. The runway, which will remain the same length, will be widened to 150 feet from its current 100-foot width.

The Federal Aviation Administration is funding 90 percent of the project’s $9.616 million cost. Five percent, or $480,849, comes from the Illinois Department of Transportation, with the remaining five percent contributed from Palwaukee construction funds. U.S. Senator Dick Durbin was instrumental in acquiring $1.7 of the total. There is no cost to the Village of Wheeling or the City of Prospect Heights, which own the airport.

The runway has not undergone major construction for 20 years. Airport officials anticipate that the project will extend the runway’s life another 20 years.

“The reason for the weekend closings,” said Airport Manager Fred Stewart, “is we want to minimize the impact on Palwaukee users. Closing it for at least two months of continuous construction would cause significant dislocation to the businesses and others who use the airport and a corresponding negative effect on the regional economy.”

Wheeling Donates $40,000 to Terrorist Victims

 Wheeling, Illinois — October 15, 2001 — Residents and organizations in Wheeling have contributed more than $40,000 to disaster-relief efforts under way on the East Coast. The donation drive, part of a joint effort between the Village and the Chamber of Commerce, is expected to continue through the end of this year.

The Swaminrayan Hindu Temple donated $20,000. The Wheeling-Prospect Heights Chamber of Commerce has collected another $20,000, including $10,000 from Bill Stasek Chevrolet. The funds will be given to the American Red Cross.

The Wheeling Board of Trustees voted to send an additional $860, collected during a candlelight vigil held at Village Hall on September 25, to the families of New York police and firefighters.

Anyone wishing to contribute to the local relief fund can send checks to Cole Taylor Bank, 350 East Dundee Rd., Wheeling, IL 60090. Checks should be made payable to the WPH Chamber Disaster Relief Fund.

Wheeling Honors Terrorist Victims With Display of Stars and Stripes

Wheeling, Illinois — September 19, 2001 — The Village of Wheeling has hung 70 banners featuring the U.S. flag from lamp standards on main thoroughfares throughout the Village. The banners, customarily flown during the July 4th time period, honor the terrorist victims along the East Coast. Banners bearing a motif of orange and brown leaves, marking the start of fall, were replaced with those emphasizing a stars-and-stripes theme.

It is expected the banners will remain in place during a 29-day period of national mourning, along with all flags flying at half staff.

"Our hearts go out to those victims in New York, Washington and Pennsylvania," said Village President Greg Klatecki. "We would like to ask that all residents and businesses in Wheeling display flags and those with flag poles fly the flags at half staff to express our sympathy and demonstrate our solidarity as a people."

Dundee Road in Wheeling to Close for a Week

Wheeling, Illinois — September 20, 2001— Dundee Road in Wheeling will be closed for about a week at the Wisconsin Central Railroad tracks beginning September 28. The closing is to accommodate restoration and repairs to the railroad bed and reconfiguration of the highway-crossing approach (“grade crossing”).

Vehicle traffic will be rerouted south on Wheeling Road to Hintz Road, east to Milwaukee Ave., then north or south.

While construction will begin Friday, September 28, no disruption of commuter-rail traffic is anticipated. Track removal and replacement will take place September 29. The operation is expected to take about four hours on Saturday, during a period when freight traffic is light. Scheduled freight trains will not be diverted to other lines but will be halted until the new tracks and rails are installed.

The $95,000 project, carried out with funds from the Illinois Department of Transportation, involves the removal and replacement of existing tracks and ties and installation of new drainage. Additionally, the rubber material currently used to cushion the crossing for vehicular traffic will be replaced with concrete panels, which, according to Wisconsin Central, will provide an improved and longer-lasting solution. The grade-crossing approach will be lengthened to provide for a more gradual slope than at present.

While minor repairs periodically have been made to the crossing, it has not undergone major construction for at least a decade.

It is expected the work will be finished and the crossing reopened no later than October 3, weather conditions permitting.

West Nile Virus Confirmed in Wheeling

Wheeling, Illinois - September 19,  2001 - Two crows found in Wheeling have tentatively tested positive for the West Nile virus, according to Village Health Officer Michael Boyle.

Acting on calls from residents, the Village Health Division had collected and submitted the birds to the Illinois Department of Agriculture for testing. The Department reported its findings on September 17, Boyle said.

As a result, Village health officials have issued a list of precautionary guidelines to reduce the risk of becoming infected by the virus.  Those guidelines include:

Stay indoors at dawn, dusk and in the early evening when mosquitoes are most active.

If you must be outdoors during high-risk times, wear shoes, socks, long pants and a long-sleeve shirt.

Use insect repellent containing 25-35 percent DEET. Apply it sparingly to exposed skin or clothing as indicated on the repellent label. Consult a physician before using repellents on young children.

Check residential screens, including porches and patios, and repair any holes.

Eliminate stagnant water in birdbaths, ponds, flower pots, wading pools, old tires, gutters and other receptacles where mosquitoes breed.

Report any area that remains wet for more than a week to the Northwest Mosquito Abatement District at 847-537-2306.

Residents no longer need to report dead birds to Village offices. While there is no risk of contracting the virus by handling dead birds, health officials still recommend using a plastic bag or shovel to pick up the bird, sealing it in the bag, and depositing it in the garbage for routine pick up.

For more information go to the Illinois Public Health Department’s Web site on West Nile virus at www.idph.state.il.us/envhealth/wnv.htm, or call Health Officer Michael Boyle at 847-459-2621.

Beacons to Light the Night on Wheeling Homes

Wheeling, IL - August 2001 - Obscured house numbers may become less of a problem for emergency crews trying to locate people in distress. The Village of Wheeling has obtained 4,000 flashing emergency beacons for purchase by Village residents.

House numbers not visible at night or difficult to read during bad weather can delay teams responding with emergency help.  The beacons, installed on a porch or front window, can function as a normal night light or, when triggered by two flicks of the light switch, a brilliant flashing marker to help police, firefighters and paramedics easily locate the site of an emergency. The beacons are visible up to 125 yards in daylight, and as far as light conditions permit at night.

"These lights will greatly reduce response times in emergencies when a few seconds may be critical," said Sgt. Terrie Wisnewski, of the Wheeling Crime Prevention Unit.

The beacons are available for $5 each at Village Hall, 255 W. Dundee Rd.All residents are encouraged to take advantage of the program, especially in homes with elderly residents, small children or people with known medical problems.

Palwaukee Prepares 7th Annual Open House

Wheeling, Illinois - August 28, 2001 - Palwaukee Municipal Airport will roll up the hangar doors to provide area residents with a peek into flight operations, maintenance facilities and airplanes galore during the airport’s 7th annual open house. The event will take place September 8 from 10 a.m. until 2 p.m.

This year plans are to assemble an array of airplanes, including antiques, a biplane (“double-winger”), and corporate jets for public inspection. The flight-control tower will be open for tours as will the airport’s maintenance facilities. The tower will be one of five stations served by a free trolley.

The Flight for Life helicopter is scheduled be on display along with news choppers from Channels 9 and 32 that are normally based at Palwaukee. Several Learjets also will be open.

Not to be outdone away from the flight line, the airport will have dozens of model airplanes on display, along with several flight schools and their planes. The fire and police departments from Wheeling and Prospect Heights also will have exhibits.

There is no charge for the event, including free airplane rides on a first-come basis to 400 attendees, parking, raffles and refreshments. However, there will be a nominal fee for helicopter rides. For information, call the airport at 847-537-2580.

Wheeling Grows as Business Attraction

Wheeling, Illinois - August 27, 2001 - Leona’s Pizzeria is coming to Wheeling. So is Midland Paper. Panda Express just arrived. iF Gallery began selling furniture on Dundee Rd. in June. And Los Angeles-based Benihana of Tokyo started operating around the same time. They are among the latest businesses to locate in the Village.

Economic Development Director Bill Whitmer said Leona’s, a longtime Chicago fixture serving Italian food in five restaurants around the city, will prepare its menu in the former Korebel’s Restaurant on Dundee Rd. The location had been vacant since May 14.

Midland Paper, a distributor of fine printing papers, will move into the location at 101 E. Palatine Rd. formerly occupied by V-Tech
Industries. Midland will warehouse and ship papers from the site. The company will shift its 125 headquarters employees to Wheeling from a location it has outgrown in Elk Grove Village. Midland maintains nine facilities staffed by 220 employees around the U.S.

Panda Express, of Glendale, CA, opened its newest store at 300 E. Dundee Rd. Known for its “gourmet Chinese food,” the outlet becomes one of 361 locations in the U.S., including 29 in Illinois. The restaurant features both dine-in and carry-out dishes. Panda bills itself as the “largest Chinese restaurant chain in the nation.”

Benihana of Tokyo, headquartered in Miami, is now operating its 194-seat restaurant near the corner of Milwaukee Ave. and Dundee Rd. As part of the One Milwaukee Place complex, the restaurant is an anchor attraction for diners seeking familiar fare with an Asian accent. The restaurant offers a sushi bar and stir-fried dishes prepared at table-side.

iF Gallery is a startup business for Ike Kim and Harrison Oh. They had been searching for a new location since closing their Chicago store last year. The two men operated an earlier outlet in Buffalo Grove. The store sells “medium to high end” furnishings in its 33,000-square-foot facility at 903 W. Dundee Rd.

“We welcome these businesses to the Village,” Whitmer said. “They recognize that we want to help make them successful.”

New Emergency Phone Systems To Help Protect Wheeling Residents

Wheeling, Illinois - August 20, 2001 - Two new, state-of-the-art emergency telephone systems are being installed in Wheeling to provide residents with greater protection. The first, known as a citywide high-speed notification system, will give emergency personnel the ability  to communicate directly with residents in the event of police and fire actions, as well as natural
disasters.

"When this system is ready, probably by October," said Wheeling Police Commander Eric Larson, "we will be able to reach as many people as may be affected by an emergency."  

The system will be built on geographic-imaging software which can correlate map coordinates with addresses and telephone numbers. Because the software is built on "layers," police and fire personnel will be able to zoom in on map enlargements to isolate areas that may be affected by an emergency.

"In the event of a storm or high water, for example," Larson said, "this system will let us telephone everyone in the affected area with a recorded message telling them about the emergency and providing instructions about what to do."

The system is persistent, too. It will continue to dial a telephone number until it gets an answer or the emergency has been cancelled. 

AVTEX, Inc., of Bloomington, MN, was accepted as the contractor for the $22,400 project, which is funded by a local law-enforcement block grant as offered and managed by the Cook County Board. A second emergency system, Wireless 911, is in the final stage of development by the Wheeling Fire Department. Targeted for completion by November, Wireless 911 will eliminate the sometimes-erratic behavior wireless-phone users encounter when they call 911.  

"Calls currently made to 911 from a cell phone," said Fire Chief Keith MacIsaac, "may not get you assistance. Depending on the cellular-service provider, you may get a recording that service is not available. Once the system is completed, Wireless 911 calls made in the Village of Wheeling will be routed automatically to the fire dispatch center."  MacIsaac said the system will cost the Village about $10,000 for equipment modifications in the dispatch center. Most of the operational costs will be defrayed by the surcharge currently on wireless phone bills.

Wheeling Police to Target Aggressive Driving Near Schools

Wheeling, Illinois — August 17— Wheeling Police are readying a three-week traffic-enforcement and awareness campaign corresponding to the opening of school. The Aggressive Driving Task Force will deploy 8-10 officers to target aggressive drivers, speeders, and those who ignore crossing guards or block school buses.

“After a long summer,” said Cpl. Pete Panagakis, who heads the Wheeling Traffic Unit, “people tend to forget about the concentrations of children crossing streets in the mornings and afternoons, and congregating around schools.”

The campaign includes an awareness program for young drivers in the Wheeling High School drivers’ education department. Flyers and payroll stuffers also will be furnished to the Village’s major employers for distribution to employees, reminding them of the need to slow down and use extra care when driving in school zones.

A similar enforcement effort in 2000 resulted in 469 citations issued, including two arrests for drunk driving.

The campaign will begin the last week of August and continue through the middle of September. It is funded by portions of the Village’s $140,000 Safe Communities grant awarded by the Illinois Department of Transportation.

Wheeling Retail Center Vacancy Drops to 8 Percent

Wheeling, Illinois -  July 16, 2001 -  Wheeling’s retail vacancy rate has dropped to eight percent, according to a survey just completed by the Village’s Economic Development Department, or WEDD. The figure is about half what it was when a similar survey was conducted in February 2000. The current poll covered 21 shopping malls and retail centers.

With guidance from the Wheeling Economic Development Commission, the survey sought to determine which properties could benefit from additional efforts to reduce the eight-percent figure still further.

The survey found that many properties are fully occupied and have no space available. Others indicate a low of three percent vacancy to a high of 32 percent.

“Since the survey was completed,” Economic Development Director Bill Whitmer reported, “the center with 32 percent vacancy rate is now fully occupied.”

The first survey, conducted by the WEDD in November 1998, uncovered a 12 percent retail vacancy rate for the shopping centers but does not include free-standing space. By February 2000, the rate had grown to 15 percent. Since then, however, efforts to market Wheeling as a desirable location have intensified.

“We keep a close watch on retail comings and goings in the Village,” Whitmer said. “We want to help Wheeling grow in a way that will benefit businesses and residents alike.”

Major Disaster Event Seeks Volunteers

Wheeling, Illinois  - July 11, 2001 - The Wheeling Fire Department is seeking volunteers to act as “patients” and “passengers” at a major disaster drill in the Village on Saturday, September 15. The drill will involve about 100 “seriously injured patients” and another 300-400 “passengers”
as bystanders.

The exercise will simulate an accident between a train and a vehicle. More than 40 fire departments, 20 police departments and 12 local hospitals will participate. Representatives from the Federal Railroad Administration and the National Transportation Safety Board also will be involved to enhance their knowledge about the logistics of a commuter rail disaster.

The volunteer “patients” will be made up to simulate injuries. They will be transported from the drill site to local hospitals, which will use the simulation to evaluate their disaster plans.

To register as a volunteer and for more information, call the Wheeling Fire Department at 847-459-2662.

Wheeling Restricts Unlicensed Motor Vehicles

Wheeling, Illinois - June 21, 2001 - The Wheeling Board of Trustees has voted to restrict the use of a variety of unlicensed, motorized vehicles within the village. The new ordinance covers motorized scooters and skateboards, go-karts, minibikes, off-highway motorcycles, all-terrain vehicles and motorcycles.

The vehicles, except for motorcycles, may not be operated on any public streets or parking lots. In addition, all the above vehicles are prohibited from sidewalks, bike paths, private roads and sidewalks, and railroad rights-of-way. Also off-limits is property owned by a public utility, park board, school board or forest-preserve district. The vehicles may not be operated on private property without the owner’s consent.

The action expands the original Wheeling ordinance, which applied primarily to motorized skateboards. The move came as a result of citizen complaints about the intrusion of unlicensed motorized vehicles into residential neighborhoods. Violators are subject to a $500 fine.

“The ordinance is one of the most comprehensive in the northwest suburbs,” according to Village Attorney James Rhodes. “Like our original ordinance, most pertain to only one or two classes of these vehicles. But the technology has changed, and we felt this is the way for the Village Code to keep up with it.”

Wheeling Bonds Rated  "AA" by Fitch

Wheeling, Illinois - June 8, 2001 -  Fitch Research, the international credit-rating agency, has assigned a rating of “AA” to $3 million in general obligation bonds for the Village of Wheeling. The rating is among the highest possible, marking the bonds as “investment grade.” Proceeds from the bond sales, which began May 29, will be used for street, water and sewer improvements in the village.

Citing Wheeling’s overall low indebtedness, Fitch also reaffirmed $13.1 million in existing general obligation debt with the “AA” rating.

The Fitch report cited Wheeling’s “expanding and diversifying economy, above average wealth level, sound financial position and a low debt burden.” Fitch recognized the growing presence of such large retailers as K-Mart, Wal-Mart, Sam’s Club and a forthcoming Target store on Lake Cook Rd., now under construction, for their contributions to the village’s revenue stream.

Additional factors in the Fitch analysis included an unemployment rate consistently lower than state and national averages, with per-capita income equaling 122 percent of the state average and 128 percent of the national average.

Sale of the bonds will close on June 15, with maturity dates ranging from December 15, 2002 to December 15, 2011. The bonds will earn an overall interest rate of 4.22 percent.

“The Fitch rating ensures that Wheeling continues to enjoy ready acceptance in the market for its financial instruments,” said Finance Director Robert Fialkowski. “It also means that we can more efficiently channel tax revenues to areas not readily financed by bonds.”

Hospital Laundry Services to Move 450 Jobs to Wheeling

Wheeling, Illinois - June 1, 2001 - Hospital Laundry Services (HLS) will move its corporate headquarters and Chicago operations to Wheeling, according to Economic Development Director Bill Whitmer. The move, which will immediately bring 450 jobs to the Village, is part of an expansion and consolidation plan centered on a 310,000 square-foot building at 43-47 Hintz Rd.

The Wheeling plant, which HLS intends to purchase, will house state-of-the-art equipment to wash, finish and handle garments.  HLS currently operates its Sterile Recovery Division in Wheeling, where it produces sterile surgical packs. The unit, which employs 80 people, will be folded into the combined facility.

It is expected the relocation, which will unite all HLS operations under one roof, will be completed in May 2002. The company anticipates its work force will total about 600 employees within two years.

The company conducted a protracted search for appropriate sites throughout Chicago and the suburbs and concluded the 16.5-acre Wheeling location best suited its present and future needs. HLS regarded transportation as a key factor in its decision, with Wheeling offering ready access to such outlets as I-294 (the Tristate Tollway) and I-94 (the Edens Expressway).

The company’s current Chicago location is land-locked, surrounded by residential neighborhoods, and cannot be expanded. HLS has occupied the Addison Street location, a general linen rental plant, since 1972.

HLS’s warehouse and purchasing departments will be the first to move in early summer. The corporate staff will follow by early fall.

“With this move,” said Whitmer, “HLS instantly becomes one of the Village’s largest employers. Their arrival is the result of months of searching and negotiating. We welcome them.”

Boeing in Wheeling?

Wheeling, Illinois - May 18, 2001 - When The Boeing Company Chairman Phil Condit told the world his company headquarters is moving to the Chicago area from Seattle, Bill Whitmer took note.

While Boeing chose Chicago, Whitmer, Wheeling's Economic Development Director, is pursuing the aerospace company anyway. He points out that Wheeling has something Boeing needs: Palwaukee Airport, which he regards as the right parking space for Boeing's fleet of corporate jets.

It's one way Whitmer's department, with input from the Wheeling Economic Development Commission, is striving to maintain the village's position as the second-largest industrial headquarters in the northwest Chicago suburbs.

Even as it courts new businesses, Wheeling seeks to retain its existing businesses - the businesses that are already there. "The businesses that drive progress," said Whitmer, "are here for the long haul. We welcome them and want to keep them, whether they've been here for 40 years or are thinking of moving in tomorrow."

To that end, the Economic Development Commission has launched an effort to reach out to businesses operating within the village. "We want to know what they need and when they need it. How can we help?" says Whitmer.  "The intent is to give businesses the services they need to help them remain profitable, and even help pave the way when business and village departments need to resolve differences."

Acknowledging that his department can't meet all the business needs that arise, Whitmer is building a team of business-service agencies. Acting as an intermediary, Whitmer's department seeks to connect businesses with the "right people" at such agencies as Harper College, the Cook County Workforce Board, Pace, the school districts, and ComEd.

"We need to put business people in touch with those who can help solve their problems,," Whitmer said. "Our business-development and -retention efforts are aimed at making life as easy as possible for our commercial residents."

Wheeling Police Department Receives Accreditation

Wheeling, Illinois - May 14, 2001 - The Wheeling Police Department has received a renewed three-year certification from the Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies, Inc. (CALEA) The milestone followed an intensive review of department policies and procedures by a team of police assessors sent by CALEA from around the country.

“The assessors,” said Commander Eric Larson, “talked to people and looked at our work product to make sure what needs to be done is getting done according to professional standards.”

CALEA’s 439 standards cover such areas as a requirement that alert procedures be in place in the event of a holding-cell emergency; the setting of policies covering the discharge of weapons; and the establishment of procedures for staffing criminal investigations, among others.

“The standards include mandatory requirements as well as some optional areas that don’t apply to Wheeling,” Larson said. “We elected to apply 78 of the optional standards. Even though they’re optional, we were assessed for compliance with them.”

CALEA, based in Virginia, is a nonprofit organization formed 25 yrs ago by the International Association of Chiefs of Police, the International Association of Sheriffs, the National

Organization of Black Law Enforcement Executives and the Police Executive Research Forum. Its primary objective is the accreditation of police departments in an ongoing effort to professionalize law enforcement agencies. Just 480 of 35,000 US police forces (less than two percent) have CALEA certification.

“We welcomed the review of our procedures,” Larson said. “It’s a process for building and maintaining a professional police department.”

Klatecki Named to State Board

Wheeling, Illinois — April 30, 2001 — Wheeling Village President Greg Klatecki has been named to the Board of Directors of the Illinois Tax Increment Association (ITIA). He will be part of an 18-member policy-making body which represents more than 200 Illinois cities. All are involved with tax-increment finance districts (TIF).

During his two-year term, Klatecki, who was recently re-elected as Village President, will help guide efforts to raise awareness among state legislators and the public about the usefulness of TIF districts to spearhead redevelopment.

Wheeling currently has two TIF districts. The first, which was created in 1985, includes an area just north and south of the Milwaukee Ave.-Dundee Rd. intersection. The second, formed in 2000, targets an area on both  sides of Milwaukee Ave., north of Hintz Rd., adjacent to the first district.

Tax-increment finance districts allow for the upgrading of underdeveloped property. Necessary improvements are financed from new real-estate tax revenues generated by the property’s increased value after development. TIF money may be used  for any of 12 redevelopment project costs, including environmental cleanup, demolition expenses and various incentives to encourage businesses to locate in these areas.

TIF districts may last for up to 23 years. Currently, more than 700 TIF districts exist in more than 300 Illinois cities and 70 counties.

“Having been one of the earliest communities to adopt TIF financing,” said Klatecki,

"Brazil, Brazil" to Headline Wheeling Festival

Wheeling, IL - April 19, 2001 -  “Brazil, Brazil,” a high-energy South American band, will kick off a day of entertainment at Wheeling’s 2nd annual “Pageant of Nations” multicultural festival. The festival, scheduled for May 6, 2001, next to Wheeling Village Hall, 255 W. Dundee Rd., will feature entertainers representing a variety of world cultures.

“Brazil, Brazil,” playing keyboard, bass guitar and various percussion instruments, celebrates Brazilian rhythms with the samba, bossa nova, baiao and the lambada. They will take to the festival stage at 11 a.m.

Starting at noon, Shreeyash Palshikar will amaze his audience with a display of traditional Hindu magic. Shreeyash has performed widely in the Chicago area and elsewhere. He has spent extensive time studying the work of street magicians in India.

An hour later, at 1 p.m., the Johnny Wagner Band will appear. The group incorporates many traditional and contemporary German polkas and other songs. Yodeling from the Alps will punctuate the band’s performance.

Dahui, a west African drum band, will make its second appearance at the “Pageant of Nations” at 2 p.m. Well received in 2000, Dahui specializes in an energetic, audience-involving performance sure to bring people clapping to their feet.

Taksim West will appear at 3 p.m. The group blends Middle Eastern rhythms with traditional Spanish folk songs and a touch of contemporary jazz. Taksim West performs on keyboard; saxophone; clarinet; the oud, an ancient Persian instrument described as the “grandfather of the guitar; and the dumbek, a small, Egyptian hand-held drum whose origin dates to Biblical times.

The festival’s last act, Danzas Ceremoniales de Mexico will take the stage at 4 p.m., wearing costumes reflecting the pre-Hispanic traditions of central Mexico. The dancers’ movements, accented by drums, beads and rattles, represent elements in nature, deities and sacred actions.

“We want to present an event that will involve, entertain and educate festival goers,” said Bill Maloney, who chairs the Human Rights Commission. “All of these outstanding entertainment groups will do just that.”

The festival will be preceded by a 5K Fun Run, two-mile walk, and kids' dash beginning at 9 a.m.  Participants may register online at www.chicagoevents.com or call 773-868-3010 for an application. Race-day registration will take place at the Wheeling Park District Aquatic Center.

Wheeling Sets May 6 for Multicultural Festival

Wheeling, IL - April 18,  2001 - The Wheeling Human Rights Commission has set May 6, 2001, for the village’s second annual “Pageant of Nations.” The multicultural festival will be held from 11 a.m.-5 p.m. on the playing field next to Village Hall at 255 W. Dundee Rd.

“We’re excited about the growth of the festival from last year until this year,” said Commission Chair Bill Maloney. “It’s bigger and will be better, with the addition of a number of crafts people displaying handmade merchandise from many countries.”

The commission anticipates that almost two dozen craft vendors will be on hand. Six entertainment acts will represent the Americas, Africa, Europe, the Middle East and India. Five area restaurants are expected to serve up ethnic cuisines from around the world.

The Indian Trails Public Library staff will help children make crafts reflecting traditions from around the world. When finished, the children will receive their own "passport" with flag stamps representing those countries.  Parents will be able to register for library cards for themselves and their children.

Festival organizers also are looking to present several sporting events and demonstrations, although final details are still pending.

The Pageant of Nations will be preceded by a 5K Fun Run, Family Walk and Kids’ Dash, which will begin and end near the festival site.

“This is a great opportunity for residents of Wheeling and the surrounding communities to come together, learn about the traditions of many cultures, and have a lot of fun to boot,” said Maloney.

The festival, which is sponsored by the Village of Wheeling, is free of charge.

When the Doors Swing Open:  Wheeling to Hold Open House

Wheeling, IL - April 17, 2001 - The Village of Wheeling will open all the doors on May 5 to give residents a look behind the scenes at how the various departments function. The open house will last from 10 a.m. - 2p.m. It promises variety, information and a glimpse at the day-to-day workings of the Village’s operation centers.

Fire Department. Firefighters will demonstrate how they cut up an automobile and extricate people during an emergency. One of the area’s Flight for Life Helicopters is scheduled for touchdown behind Village Hall. ComEd will display its Electric Safety Town to demonstrate the dangers of climbing on power towers.

Firefighter-paramedics will conduct tours of department equipment, including an ambulance, fire trucks and the crash truck.

Police Department. All areas of the department will be open, including the firing range and holding cells. Visitors can have their fingerprints taken on the department’s digital fingerprint scanner. Metra will present its Operation Lifesaver offering information and videos about train safety. Numerous demonstrations will take place, including evidence gathering and recovery and bicycle safety checks.

Illinois State Police will demonstrate their “rollover vehicle,” which consists of a semi-truck and trailer with a sport utility vehicle inside. The exhibit will show what happens to a vehicle’s occupants in the event of a rollover.

Police exhibits will include a static car safety-seat display, fatal vision goggles, and the traffic patrol’s motorcycles.

Health Fair. Also scheduled during the open house will be a health fair organized by the Village Health Department and the Board of Health. Plans call for a variety of exhibits, including blood-pressure screening, and other information booths providing information relevant to family health.

Public Works Department. All road equipment, including snowplows and the video-equipped vehicle which is used to check for blockages and breaks in sewer lines. Children are welcome to climb into the driver’s seat of each vehicle.

Wheeling Streets, Sidewalks, Watermains to be Upgraded

Wheeling, IL — April 16, 2001 — The Wheeling Public Works Department plans to upgrade a number of Village streets, sidewalks and water mains during the current construction year. All of the projects are ongoing activities and are included in the department’s five-year Capital Improvement Plan.

Streets. The Village’s street improvement program will see resurfacing, reconstruction and improvements made on 6.7 miles of local streets, beginning in early May. Thirty-one streets are involved (see below). The combined projects will cost $1,370,000.

Also this year the Cook County Highway Department will resurface Schoenbeck Rd. The $1 million project will span almost the entire length of Schoenbeck from Camp McDonald to Dundee Rds. Crews also will make drainage improvements. Construction is expected to start by late June and be completed by late September or early October. The project will require intermittent lane closures controlled by flagmen during the day. Both lanes will be open at night.

A second Cook County project will entail major work on Lake-Cook Road between Arlington Heights Rd. and Lexington Dr. The first phase of construction will begin on the outside lanes after July 4th and continue until Labor Day. The second phase will begin after the holiday, with early November targeted for completion. Construction will involve lane closures and result in major delays.

Village of Wheeling Street Improvement Program for 2001
              
Pleasant Run Dr.               Elmhurst Rd. to east limit
Pear Tree Ln.                    Honeysuckle Dr. to Wlllowbrook Dr.
Shady Tree Ln.                 Honeysuckle Dr. to Willowbrook Dr.
Honeysuckle Dr.               Willowbrook Dr. to east end
Weeping Willow Dr.         Honeysuckle Dr. to Wheeling Rd.
Tanglewood Dr.               Willowbrook Dr. to Weeping Willow Dr.
Willowbrook Dr.              Hintz Rd. to Wheeling Rd.
Rose Ln.                          Crimson Dr. to Elmhurst Rd.
Peace Dr.                         Garden Ln. to Blaze Tr.
Blaze Tr.                          Crimson Dr. to Peace Dr.
Crimson Dr.                     Garden Ln. to Blaze Tr.
Garden Ln.                       Crimson Dr. to Peace Dr.
Twilight Ln.                       Sherwood Dr. to Peace Dr.
Sherwood Dr                    Hintz Rd. to south limit (east half only)
Longtree Dr.                      Longtree Ln. to Vera Ln.
Cherrywood Ln.                Longtree Dr. to Vera Ln.
Vera Ln.                           Schoenbeck Rd. to east end
3rd St.                              Strong Ave. to south end
2nd  St.                             Strong Ave. to Mayer Ave.
1st St.                               Mayer Ave. to south end
E. Strong Ave.                  Wolf Rd. to Milwaukee Ave.
Glendale St.                      Wolf Rd. to west end
6th St                               Wolf Rd. to dead end
Center Ave.                      Milwaukee Ave. to 1,085 ft. W. of Wheeling Ave.
Highland Ave.                   Wille Ave. to Park Ave.
E. Manchester Dr.             Wolf Rd. to Milwaukee Ave.
Northgate Pkwy.               Egidi Dr. to Dundee Rd.
S. Chaddick Dr.                Hintz Rd. to Marquardt Dr.
Capri Terr.                        Wolf Rd. to cul-de-sac (remove island)
Deborah Ln.                      East end to west end
1st  St.                               Dundee Rd. to Deborah Ln.

Sidewalks. The Road and Bridge Division will remove and replace defective sidewalk squares throughout the Village. The $100,000 project list for 2001 marks the fourth year of the sidewalk-replacement program. While the effort is Village-wide, this year it will focus on the Poplar Grove, Babiarz and Hollywood Ridge subdivisions.

Water Mains. The Water Division will replace water mains in the Dunhurst I and II subdivisions. The $1.7 million project is a continuation of a 15-year program begun in 1999 to replace older cast-iron pipe with longer-lasting ductile iron pipe. The work is expected to be under way by early May and will continue through late fall.

Wheeling Trustee Receives "Woman of Achievement" Award

Wheeling, IL - April 12, 2001 - Trustee Judy Abruscato has been named to receive the Illinois Lieutenant Governor’s Woman of Achievement  Award. The honor was bestowed at a regular meeting of the Board of Trustees. She was nominated for the award by Village President Greg Klatecki.

Trustee Abruscato was recognized for “many years of public service and her involvement in community activities.” A resident of the Village for 33 years, she has served as a trustee for the last 14 years.

She is recognized for spearheading a revival of the annual July 4th parade and fireworks. She also was key to developing the Taste of Wheeling food fest, also held on July 4th, and the November “Festival of Lights” celebration. She is also behind other community events, such as the annual “Dance into Spring” at Chevy Chase Country Club and the community Spaghetti Dinner held in the spring. She manages the Wheeling branch of Corus Bank.

Born in Chicago, Trustee Abruscato has lived in Wheeling with her husband, Mario, for the last 33 years. She’s the mother of a son, Anthony, and a daughter, Valerie. She also has two grandchildren.

Asked about her community involvement, Trustee Abruscato said, “I love giving to the community. After all, if we don’t give to where we live, we don’t get what we want.”

Diversion Channel Construction to Begin

Wheeling, IL - March 6, 2001 - The Village of Wheeling and the U. S. Department of Agriculture’s Natural Resource Conservation Service (NRCS) will break ground on the Buffalo Creek/Wheeling Ditch Diversion Channel on March 9 at 11 a.m. The ceremony will mark the culmination of extensive planning for the project, which is designed as a supplemental discharge route to the Wheeling drainage ditch for 10-100 year rainstorms.

The $2.4 million dollar project is being largely funded by NRCS. Currently targeted for completion this fall, the 7,200-foot channel will be 70 feet wide at its widest. It will be capable of handling a water flow of 800 cubic feet per minute.

The channel will be of earthen construction, with no concrete along the route except for culverts passing beneath roadbeds. It will start at the Wheeling drainage ditch north of Dundee Rd. and east of the railroad and meander northeast before spilling into the Des Plaines River.

Some of the soil excavated from the channel will be used to build up its sidewalls. The remainder will be sold or disposed of.

Wheeling Capital Improvement Plan Sets Village Construction Priorities

Wheeling, IL - February 16, 2001 - The Wheeling Public Works Department has developed a five-year capital-improvement plan to set priorities and establish preliminary budget needs. Projects span broad areas of Village maintenance, such as roads and bridges, street improvement, water delivery, building maintenance and sewers.

Heading the list of planned projects is the Buffalo Creek/Wheeling Ditch Diversion Channel. Groundbreaking for the project is scheduled for March 9 (see adjacent story). The plan also anticipates that preliminary design and conceptual layout will begin this year for a new Public Works Facility at 77 W. Hintz Rd. Construction is currently planned for 2003-2004.

As recommended by the Wheeling Plan Commission, uniform wooden fences, similar to those on Rte. 83 between Dundee and Hintz Rds., are targeted for design this year. It is anticipated construction will start in 2002. One fence will run along the north side of Dundee Rd. just west of the Elmhurst-Dundee intersection to Cedar Dr. Additional fencing will be installed along portions of the Rte. 83 and McHenry Rd.

Wheeling Rd. is slated for a major overhaul between Hintz and Dundee Rds. Design and right-of-way acquisition will begin this year and extend into 2002. The projected start of construction is 2003.

"The Academy is designed to increase understanding between citizens and the police through education," said Sgt. Terrie Wisnewski, who heads the Crime Prevention Unit. "Our intent is to acquaint citizens with the role of law enforcement in the criminal justice system, and to provide increased understanding of the tasks police officers face in their daily work."

Academy instructors are drawn from department officers and personnel, who teach their own areas of expertise. The instructors have broad training and experience, and the officers also bring street experience into the classroom.

The initial session will include an introduction, an orientation and the history and organization of the police department. In the weeks that follow, instructors will explain such units as Patrol, Traffic, Crime Prevention/Community Relations, DARE and Investigations.

Law-enforcement issues to be covered span domestic violence, child abuse, use of force, major crimes and community policing.

Participating in the Academy requires a commitment of one night a week for the ten week period. Classes are held one night a week from 7:00-9:30 p.m. at Village Hall, 255 W. Dundee Rd.

Upon completion of the ten weeks, Academy members will ride in a patrol car for one shift to experience first-hand what officers see and hear, and what they are trained to do under various circumstances.

Any Village resident over the age of 21 may apply for the Academy. To apply call or e-mail us for an application. A printable application is available on the Forms and Permits page in the Reference Desk section of the Village Web site (/ReferenceDesk/FormsAndPermits.asp#PoliceDepartmentForms). You will be notified if you are selected for the next session. There is no charge for the Academy.

Wheeling Police Scheduled for On-Site Assessment for Reaccreditation

Wheeling, IL - December 27, 2000 - The Wheeling Police Department is scheduled for an On-Site Assessment as part of a program to achieve Reaccreditation by verifying it meets professional standards.

Administered by the Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies, Inc. (CALEA), the accreditation program requires agencies to comply with state-of-the-art standards in four basic areas; policy and procedure, administration, operations, and support services.

As a part of the On-Site Assessment, agency employees and members of the community are invited to offer comments at a Public Information hearing on Monday January 8, 2001 at 7:00 p.m. The hearing will be conducted at the Wheeling Park District Recreation Center located at 333 West Dundee Road, Wheeling, Illinois.

Agency employees and the public are also invited to offer comments by calling 847/520-2025 on Monday January 8, 2001 between the hours of 1:00 p.m. and 5:00 p.m. Comments will be taken by the Assessment team.

Telephone comments as well as appearances at the Public Information Hearing are limited to 10 minutes and must address the agency’s ability to comply with CALEA’s Standards. A copy of the Standards is available at the Wheeling Police Department. Please contact Deputy Chief Michael Hermes.

Anyone wishing to submit written comments about the Wheeling Police Department’s ability to comply with the Standards for Accreditation may sent them to the Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies, Inc. (CALEA), 10306 Eaton Place, Suite 320, Fairfax, Virginia, 22030-2201.

Wheeling's Horizons Center to Train Day-Care Owners

Wheeling, IL - December 27, 2000 - Wheeling’s Horizons Children’s Center is looking for a few good people to open child-care homes in the Village. To that end, Horizons is launching a program to train prospective owners in the mechanics of obtaining a license and operating a child-care home.

An introductory meeting is scheduled for January 10 at 7 p.m. in the Village Councilroom, 255 W. Dundee Rd. A licensing representative from the Illinois Department of Children and Family Services will explain the requirements and processes for licensing.

There is no cost for the program, and anyone who opens a child-care home after completing the training will receive a $100 stipend. The program is funded by a $25,000 grant from the Illinois Department of Commerce and Community Affairs.

"There are only five child-care homes licensed in the Village," said Suzan Tash, director of the Horizons Center. "We would like to see four or five more to meet the growing demand."

Wheeling Blaze Called "Accidental"

Wheeling, Illinois - December 18, 2000 - The Wheeling Fire Department has determined that a million-dollar fire which destroyed a manufacturing company in early December was accidental. Although the Fire Marshal has not identified the exact source of the blaze, there is no evidence of foul play.

Fire Chief Keith MacIsaac pointed to the fire as an example of the dangers involved with do-it-yourself firefighting. "All big fires start small," he said. "The fire at the plant apparently began in a cardboard-storage area, and employees tried to fight it themselves. They thought they had extinguished it when they decided to air smoke from the building. That gave the smoldering fire what it needed — oxygen. By the time firefighters arrived, fire had spread through most of the building."

The fire chief said it will be difficult for the machining company to rebuild a similar facility. The site of the 40-year-old building is too small to meet the requirements of current Village codes. Damage to the building is estimated at more than $1.2 million.

MacIsaac said the "key to minimizing damage and protecting lives" is to call the fire department first, "then decide if it’s safe for you to fight the fire. We don’t mind coming out; that’s why we’re here. It’s much easier to deal with fires when they are small. The bigger the fire the more difficult it is to control."

For anyone who decides it’s safe to take action, MacIsaac provided two basic rules: "(1) always make sure you have an escape route, and (2) know how to use fire extinguishers before fires occur. Point the nozzle at the base of the burning material and sweep from side to side. Don’t aim the nozzle at the flames."

The first line of defense against fire is operational smoke alarms. "While most people know they should change the batteries in their smoke detectors once a year," MacIsaac said, "many don’t realize they should replace detectors every 10 years. They’re appliances, like any other, and they do wear out."

Wheeling Safety Officials Issue Ice Warning

Wheeling, Illinois - December 15, 2000 - The Wheeling Fire and Police Departments have issued a Community Emergency Advisory cautioning residents to stay off frozen bodies of water. Snow covering ponds, creeks and rivers creates the illusion that the water below is frozen and safe for outdoor recreation.

"Not so," said Fire Chief Keith MacIsaac. "The ice layer hasn’t adequately formed and won’t safely support an individual’s weight. Falling through ice into cold water can quickly lead to hypothermia. And it’s virtually impossible to rescue yourself."

Safety officials caution against sledding down inclined areas surrounding ponds or other bodies of water. They warn further against letting pets wander onto frozen water because children often follow or try to rescue their pets if they fall through the ice. The ice advisory was issued in anticipation of the winter break from school, when children are at play — sometimes without adult supervision.

"If someone should fall through the ice, don’t try your own rescue," warned Police Chief John Popadowski. "Call 9-1-1, return to the scene and provide emergency personnel with as much information as possible when they arrive. Never attempt to rescue anyone who has fallen through the ice."

Wheeling Fire Department Lauded for Sprinkler Law

Wheeling, Illinois - December 13, 2000 - The Illinois Fire Inspectors Association has bestowed its Fire Recognition Award on the Wheeling Fire Department for "meritorious and distinguished service" for sprinkler requirements that recently went into effect.

The award was made following passage earlier this year of a local ordinance requiring that all new construction — residential, commercial, industrial — must be equipped with sprinklers. The law also requires that residential property that is expanded by more than 50 percent must be retrofitted with sprinklers. Owners of other buildings are obligated to install sprinklers whenever they undertake expansion of any kind.

The Fire Inspectors Association recognized the Wheeling Fire Department "for furthering the aims and ideals of fire safety by adopting home sprinkler requirements that provide the best possible life safety to the citizens of Wheeling."

"The Wheeling Fire Department has long been a leader in fire safety," said Chief Keith MacIsaac. "This award recognizes the forward thinking of a team of dedicated professionals."

New Law Helps Families Make Quality-of-Life Decisions

Wheeling, IL — December 12, 2000 — When long-term illness or the debilitating effects of aging strike, patients and family members often must make difficult decisions. One of those decisions pertains to the quality of the last days of life.

A new Illinois law, which goes into effect on January 1, 2001, provides a clear path for people to follow in the terminal stages of life. The law provides for an orange "Do Not Resuscitate Order" bearing the seal of the Illinois Department of Public Health.

A completed form will now be required in the event emergency medical personnel are called to treat anyone whose long-term prognosis is poor. Previously, a doctor’s order on the physician’s prescription pad or letterhead was acceptable in such cases. The new law requires completion of the form in addition to any last directives such as a living will or a durable power-of-attorney.

"This process," said Wheeling Fire Chief Keith MacIsaac, "is intended for a very limited number of people, such as AIDS or cancer patients, for whom the end of life is imminent. But the time to execute the form is in advance, not when the paramedics are on the way."

MacIsaac emphasized that the law requires emergency medical personnel to resuscitate patients in the absence of the Do Not Resuscitate Order.

"Even though the family may know of the patient’s wishes not to be resuscitated, without the properly completed form, we must initiate life support," MacIsaac cautioned.

The form requires the name and signature of both patient and physician, plus the names, signatures and addresses of two witnesses. However, in case the patient lacks decision-making capability, the form may be completed by a legal representative (such as someone holding a legally executed durable power-of-attorney) Names, signatures and addresses of two witnesses are also required.

The Illinois Department of Health has notified all physicians of the new rules. Forms are available from Wheeling Fire Department, hospitals and physicians.

Wheeling and PACE Considering New Employee Bus Routes

Wheeling, IL - November 16, 2000 - PACE Suburban Bus will take the wraps off a plan to develop new bus routes and improve transportation service for people commuting to and from Wheeling on Nov 16. The plan, based on surveys of businesses and employees, will be presented to employers at a meeting scheduled for 8 a.m. in the Councilroom at Village Hall.

The surveys to were conducted to determine worker and employer transportation needs and provided information about where people live and how they get to work. Employees who travel to and from Wheeling from the north on the Metra Central Line also were surveyed to ascertain their commuting patterns and how best to serve them.

The data lay the groundwork for implementing such options as vanpooling and new bus routes. It is part of an ongoing effort by the Wheeling Economic Development Department and PACE to improve the commute for workers. Another organization, BizLink, will be part of the meeting to help employers retain their workforce and attract new people.

Under consideration are two new bus routes. The first, between the Rosemont CTA station and Wheeling, has been funded by a grant from the U.S. Department of Labor as part of its Welfare to Work Partnership. It is estimated the route will cost $268,000 to operate. Service should begin after January 1, 2001.

A second route, not yet fully funded, would operate from the Wheeling Metra station along a route serving the largest possible number of village employers. That route is currently partially funded by a grant from the Federal Transportation Administration, which requires matching funds. PACE is discussing the possibility of matching funds with Metra. Annual operating costs are estimated at $59,000.

BizLink is a nonprofit service which helps employers recruit, identify, hire and train their workforce. By supplying mentoring and other programs, BizLink’s goal is to increase job retention.

"This is a good example of how a public-private partnership can work," said Economic Development Director Bill Whitmer. It’s a partnership between businesses, the Village of Wheeling, PACE and BizLink where a problem is being solved."

Beware of the Soliciting Stranger

Wheeling, IL - October 25, 2000 - The Wheeling Police Department has issued a consumer alert, cautioning residents to "beware of telemarketers." Of particular concern are those soliciting donations to a "police association." The department "strongly urges residents not to donate money to telemarketers," said Chief John Popadowski.

"These people often want a big donation — the one they might take from your bank or credit-card account if you give them access," Popadowski said. "Sadly, telephone solicitors often target senior citizens."

Police advise against donating to any charity without investigating its legitimacy. Request information in writing from any solicitor about the purpose of the charity, including a verifiable address (no post-office boxes). Charitable organizations can be verified through the Illinois Attorney General’s Office.

"The Wheeling Police Department does not engage in telemarketing solicitations from residents," said Chief Popadowski.

Wheeling Fire Dept.  Beefs Up Emergency Response Capability

Wheeling, IL — October 23, 2000 — Five marked staff vehicles in the Wheeling Fire Department are being equipped with automatic electronic defibrillators (AED). In what is thought to be a unique program among local fire departments, the defibrillators will give the department an instant-response capability for anyone who goes into cardiac arrest.

"People sometimes flag down our marked staff cars to report emergencies," said Fire Chief Keith MacIsaac. "These AEDs will allow personnel, wherever they may be — in a store, at a meeting, even driving down the street — to treat people on the spot."

MacIsaac described the defibrillators as "quick to set up and simple to use However, specialized training is required to use them." Training for the fire chief, deputy chief and Fire Prevention Bureau personnel is underway now, he said.

The units activate only when they sense cardiac rhythm patterns that would benefit from cardio-electrical stimulation. Similar units are currently in use in airports and such public places as Chicago’s Navy Pier. The five Wheeling defibrillators cost $14,464.

"With an aging population and high population density, there’s a growing potential these units may see use in the near future," MacIsaac added.

Burn Simulators Installed at Combined Area Fire Training Facility

Wheeling, IL - October 19, 2000 - Firefighters from the Village of Wheeling and three other fire departments have a new tool at their disposal — a computer-based "burn simulation" system recently installed at the Combined Area Training Facility on Deerfield Parkway in Buffalo Grove. The natural gas-fed installation will speed training, provide greater safety and eliminate pollution associated with the burning of wood, paper and other materials.

The $395,000 system centers on two common household "props" — a living room couch and a bed. Fuel fed to the props is directed by a training officer using a hand-held control unit. As firefighters douse the flames, sensors feed vital information to a central computer, which measures room temperature, the fuel-air mixture, and the rate at which the fire builds and is contained. The computer also calculates how much water is applied and determines if it is sufficient for the type and size of fire. The training officer has an instant-off switch at his disposal for added personnel safety. Smoke generated by a smoke machine provides realism.

"The burn simulators will be a boon to our training programs," said Wheeling Fire Chief Keith MacIsaac. "The system allows quicker turnaround because there’s almost no setup time and we can immediately rebuild the fire for each wave of trainees. When the fire is out, a ventilator clears the room for added firefighter safety. Plus, there’s no ash and dirt generated by the fire, so there’s no cleanup afterward."
The system was designed and built by Symtron Systems, Inc., of Fair Lawn, NJ, which has installed training props at military bases and large civilian airports around the world — including O’Hare Airport. All but $30,000 of the cost was defrayed by a grant from the state’s Build Illinois program. The remainder had been set aside for this purpose from the facility’s original construction budget.

The Joint Training Facility, now about two years old, is operated by the Wheeling and Buffalo Grove Fire Departments, and Long Grove and Lincolnshire/Riverwoods Fire Protection Districts.

Village of Wheeling Introduces New Electronic Services

Wheeling, IL — October 17, 2000 — The Village of Wheeling has expanded its electronic services to include payment of water and sewer bills, and delivery of timely information to residents. Both programs are Internet-based. A new pay-by-phone option also has been added. The electronic-payment program is a cooperative effort with the Illinois State Treasurer's Office E-PAY system.

To use the Web option, go to . Then click through to Village Services, Finance and Administration, and Direct Pay. Follow the link to the E-PAY page ("clicking here"). Enter "Village of Wheeling" in the box labeled "Find Government Unit." Once there, just follow the on-screen instructions. Payment can be made by credit card or debit card.

The Village also has established a direct bank-withdrawal system from checking accounts. The authorization form needed for direct withdrawal also is available on the Web site. Quarterly payments are automatically deducted from a resident’s bank account credited to that person’s water and sewer account at the Village of Wheeling on the 20th of the month.

Touch-tone telephone payment with a credit card is also possible now by dialing, toll-free, 877-455-3729. For further information call the Wheeling Finance Department at 847-459-2607.

The Village also has introduced an information-delivery system for residents to automatically receive Board of Trustee agendas and minutes, news releases, crime alerts, and community bulletins. A simple sign-up form on the Web site will launch the service.

To subscribe, click on the scrolling message board when the message promoting the service appears, or click on Village Services, then Finance and Administration. Then click on Village Information Service a the top of the page. Unsubscribing is just as easy.

Double Track Hopes Boosted for Metra North Central Line

Wheeling, IL - October 13, 2000 - Recent action by the U.S. Congress has raised prospects that the North Central Metra rail line, which bisects Wheeling, will be expanded with the addition of a second track. Such expansion would allow for a doubling of commuter train traffic along the Wisconsin Central Railroad’s north-south right of way.

A House-Senate Conference Committee endorsed full funding and earmarked $35 million for the 2001 budget. The funds will cover expanding or extending three lines which Metra operates, including the North Central line. It has not yet been determined how the funds will be allocated.

Two sets of rails currently narrow into a single track north of the Wheeling train station. The 10 commuter trains currently using the line share space with heavy freight traffic. "It’s a logistical problem to keep freight and commuter trains apart and still move them on time," said Frank Malone, a Metra spokesperson.

Metra anticipates signing an agreement with the Federal Transit Administration late this year or early next year that will provide greater assurance — although no guarantee — that the project will receive full funding.

Even though the North Central line runs from Chicago’s Union Station to Antioch, current plans call for additional tracks in specific locations. The longest stretch will be the eight miles from Wheeling to Mundelin.

Metra is entering the early stage of final engineering, which will take about a year to complete. The bidding process could add an additional six months to the timetable. Officials are hopeful construction will begin in late 2001 or early 2002. The project could take until 2004-2005 to complete.

Village President Greg Klatecki said, "Wheeling’s residential base keeps growing. We need additional capacity from Metra to help meet the needs of people commuting into and out of Wheeling."

Wheeling Firefighters Take Down Houses

Wheeling, IL - September 11, 2000 - Four houses on Old McHenry Rd. in Wheeling are being razed to make way for new development. And the Wheeling Fire Department is helping. Park Pointe Condominiums will rise on the site once firefighters demolish the houses.

In a training exercise sanctioned by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, firefighters go through a range of realistic situations. For example, smoke-filled residential rooms provide an opportunity for real-world uses of the department’s recently acquired low-light, infrared cameras.

The firefighters have taken down one house. Two more are scheduled for Wednesday, September 13, beginning at 8 a.m. and continuing throughout the day. This could be a community photo opportunity for you, especially since change is coming to that part of Wheeling.

Motorcycle Cops Hidden in Plain Sight

Wheeling, IL - August 29, 2000 - Wheeling Police Department has launched the first motorcycle patrols in the department’s 100-year history. They began after the Village took delivery on two units as part of a special police program from the dealer, Woodstock Harley-Davidson.

The department leases the motorcycles for $100 each. The only additional cost to the Village is for equipping the "bikes" and training officers. The program calls for the dealer to exchange the motorcycles each year for two new units.

The motorcycle officers, Cpl. Mike Rompala and Jeremy Hoffman, have extensive motorcycle experience, a requirement for the positions. However, both officers also received special police motorcycle provided by the Northwestern Traffic Institute and Harley-Davidson.

The motorcycles provide a "stealth approach" to traffic enforcement, able to go where no patrol car has gone before. "We can use the growing network of Village foot paths to access places that most people don’t associate with police patrols," said Rompala.

Police can observe — and ticket — drivers who effectively don’t see an officer on a motorcycle. "It’s like being hidden in plain sight," Rompala added.

The cycles, valued at about $18,000 each, are usable up to eight months a year, depending on weather conditions. Only rain and snow keep them off the roads.

Wheeling Seminar to Train Landlords 

Wheeling, IL - August 25, 2000 - Preventing blight and retaining satisfied tenants will be the subject of a half-day "Landlord Training for Crime and Drug-Free Rental Housing" scheduled for September 13, from 8 a.m. -noon at Hawthorne School, 200 Glendale St. Sponsored by the Village of Wheeling, the seminar will focus on crime prevention, maintenance and legal issues.

Representatives from the Wheeling Police, Legal and Community Development Departments will discuss tenant screening, indications of possible criminal activity, lease addendums and evictions, apartment security, crime prevention through environmental design, and the Wheeling residential rental inspection ordinance.

The seminar was designed to help landlords improve their clientele, increase property values, reduce property damage, promote a sense of community for residents, and establish a working relationship with the Village.

"We’re encouraging all owners of residential rental property in Wheeling to attend this training," said Police Chief John Popadowski. "It’s a cooperative effort between the Village and landlords to reduce crime, improve safety and maintain their properties. Everyone will benefit — from property owners and tenants to Village departments and the community at large."

There is no cost for the seminar, but registration is required. For more information, call Officer Kate McInerny in the Crime Prevention Unit at 459-2693. The registration deadline is September 8.

Wheeling to Host Tax-Appeal Seminar

Wheeling, Illinois - August 25, 2000 -Homeowners questioning their property taxes can learn how to file appeals from their assessments at a workshop scheduled for 6:30p.m., January 2, 2001, at the Wheeling Village Hall council chambers, 255 W. Dundee Rd.

Maureen Murphy, a commissioner with the Cook County Board of Review, will conduct the seminar as part of her countywide effort to inform citizens how to gather evidence for an appeal, complete the appropriate form, and how long it takes for a board decision.

According to the Board of Review, Cook County is the second largest county in the U.S., with nearly 1.6 million parcels of property assessed each year. The appeal process starts with the county Assessor’s Office. Assessments may be further appealed to the Board of Review and, ultimately, the Illinois Property Tax Appeal Board.

The deadline for filing an appeal is January 8. Residents attending the seminar are encouraged to take their property-tax bill, tax-assessment notice or property identification number so they may complete the form and submit their appeal that evening.

Wheeling President Names Commissioners  

Wheeling, IL - August 23, 2000 - Twenty-six members of Wheeling's nine boards and commissions have been appointed or reappointed by Village Board President Greg Klatecki. Members serve each body for varying terms.

Reappointed to the Board of Health are Ricki Reznick, Perry Wells and Jackie Goldberg. Returning to the Economic Development Commission for another term are Frank D'Angelo, Bruce Taylor and Willam Bogenski.  

Returning to the Human Rights Commission are William J. Maloney and Gary Hittleman. Plan Commissioners Terry Steilen, Otis Hedlund and Dean Argiris will continue in their present positions as will Glenn Hartman on the Police Pension Board.

Ida Hein, Virginia Isherwood, Karolyn Nance and Mitchell Fox were reappointed Senior Citizens Commissioners; and John McKechan and Stu Shapiro to the Zoning Board of Appeals.

Klatecki's new appointments include Kenneth D. Ross to the Economic Development Commission, while Lynn M. Nutoni, Ellen Anderson and Rocco Malandrino will join the Board of Ethics.

Michael J. Moran was named to the Police & Fire Commission, and Raymond Soto to the Zoning Board of Appeals. Newly appointed to the Human Rights Commission are Henry Hackney Jr. and Ricardo Carranza.

Residents interested in serving on a board or commission should contact Chris Brady at Wheeling Village Hall, 255 W. Dundee Rd., or download an application from the Village Web site.

Avalon Sienna Park Gets Green Light  From Wheeling Board

Wheeling, IL – August 21, 2000 – The Wheeling Board of Trustees has approved bids for the construction of a park and playground in the Avalon Sienna subdivision. The move came following discussions between the Village and area residents about the need for recreational space in the development.

Bordered on the north by heavily traveled Palatine Rd., on the west by Woodland Creek Apartments, and on the east by the Illinois Central Railroad, Avalon Sienna has limited access to other parks in the Village. The developer, Concord Development, of Arlington Heights, donated $150,000 to maintain a 50-acre plot as open space, a portion of which will be used to construct the park.

The Village will act as liaison with the developer and the architect and assure the park's construction by closing any gap between project costs and available funds. Maintenance of the area will be the Village's responsibility.

However, trustees strongly encouraged the residents to establish a Neighborhood Watch program. Concerned about deterioration, especially of an anticipated gazebo, the trustees want Avalon Sienna residents to participate in safeguarding the park and its structures. No date for construction has been established.

Trustees Approve New Redevelopment District

Wheeling, IL – August 18, 2000 – The bells have tolled for the southeastern quadrant of Wheeling. The Village Board of Trustees voted unanimously to establish a new Tax Increment Finance (TIF) district as part of a long-term effort to revive Milwaukee Avenue, the village's de facto eastern border.

Formally known as the "South Milwaukee Avenue/Manchester Drive Area TIF Redevelopment Plan and Project," the area includes the soon-to-close Wheeling Nursery and properties directly across the street on Milwaukee Ave. The Board envisions the property becoming the keystone for an infusion of new businesses that will revitalize the redevelopment area and provide additional revenue for the village.

According to the plan prepared by the firm Kane, McKenna and Associates, Inc. describing the district, the intent is to:

• anchor the south portion of the community with new, high quality land development

• improve the appearance of the area

• control consistent development

• upgrade the village's flood and storm management efforts

• eliminate "inappropriate" land uses

• promote public access to the Des Plaines River

Following procedures encoded in state law, the village has conducted a step-by-step process that included public hearings and a determination that a number of properties within the
zone are deteriorated or abandoned, have long-term vacancies, or otherwise do not meet current building codes. The law permits municipalities to encourage revitalization by using property taxes generated from the zone to make improvements, assemble property or incur other costs to stimulate added development. There is no tax impact on existing businesses and residences.

The final step in the process was completed when the Board enacted three new ordinances. The first approved the plan; the second designated the specific zone for inclusion in the district; and the third officially adopted tax-increment financing for the village. A TIF district expires 23 years after approval, although local authorities may terminate it before then.

The board action creates Wheeling's second TIF district. The first, which expires in eight years, includes Milwaukee Ave. from Manchester Dr. to Strong Ave. Since it was established in 1985, the area has seen extensive demolition of dilapidated properties, the rise of new businesses and housing, and beautification efforts targeted at the village's "gateway intersection" of Milwaukee Ave. and Dundee Rd.

Wheeling Builds Unique Fence on Elmhurst Rd.

Wheeling, IL – August 18, 2000 – What is thought to be one of the longest fences ever built by a municipality is being constructed on Elmhurst Rd. in Wheeling between Hintz and Dundee Rds. Two fences now line either side of the highway. Combined, the fence project is 5,963 feet long. The Public Works Department believes only state-built fences are longer. 

The Village undertook the $289,000 project as part of ongoing beautification efforts. The new fence replaces an uneven mix of chain link, wooden and other fences with a uniform appearance. Shrubbery that was pruned during the 1998-99 reconstruction of Elmhurst Rd. will, when mature, provide a pleasing parkway appearance.

Erected by Fence Connection Inc., of Hanover Park, the fence is anchored by eight-inch posts sunk six feet into the ground. It was designed to provide an average height of 6-6½ feet above the level of the road pavement 

The fence is the first such project undertaken by the Village. Public Works expects the structure to last 25-30 years. Plans are underway to weather-protect the fence this fall.

Wood Chips Available at Wheeling Village Hall 

Wheeling, IL – May 22, 2000 – Just in time for the Spring gardening season, the Village of Wheeling is giving away mulched wood chips at Village Hall. As a result of the storms last week, the Village has an abundance of wood chips, created from downed tree limbs throughout the Village.

The chips are located behind Village Hall, and are free to anyone. People wanting the pick-up chips must bring their own containers and load the chips themselves. The Wheeling Village Hall is located at 255 West Dundee Road.

Talks with Pace Aimed at Reducing Congestion  

The Wheeling Economic Development Department has opened a dialog between Pace, the suburban bus-transit system, and Village businesses aimed at improving employee access to public transportation.

At a recent meeting among Pace, nine employers, and Village staff, transportation was identified as essential to attract and retain employees. The information exchange revealed that only a handful of businesses provide transportation to and from the Wheeling Metra station.

With exact figures lacking about origins and destinations of Metra riders using the Wheeling station, Pace plans to conduct a survey to determine how employees get from there to their jobs and back. The Economic Development Department anticipates hosting additional transportation-related meetings with other businesses.

3rd Annual "Blooms and Brooms" to Spruce Up Wheeling  

Wheeling, IL - May 8, 2000 - Brooms and flowers will be out in force on May 20 in Wheeling. The date will mark the third annual "Brooms and Blooms" event to tidy up and beautify the Village. Members of the Plan Commission's Streetscape Committee, the Wheeling Garden Club and volunteers will fan out to pick up debris accumulated along Milwaukee Ave. and Dundee Rd.

As the clean-up is under way, other residents will plant flowers at key locations around the Village. The Wheeling Plan Commission, which organizes the event, has sent letters to local businesses asking them to participate by removing trash and planting flowers at their locations.

One business, Meyer Material, provided funds last fall for the planting of flowers in three large concrete urns at Meyer's Dundee Rd. location. The remainder of those funds will also pay for a similar planting this spring. 

Adding to the day's activities, the Garden Club will sell flowers from 9:00am - 2:00pm at Village Hall, 255 W. Dundee Rd.  "Let's flower up the area," said Plan Commission Chair Dean Argiris, "We'd really like to have a lot of residents volunteer to help with Blooms and Brooms so we can all share in a more attractive Wheeling."

Wheeling Receives $100,000 Grant to Fight Gangs, Drugs  

Wheeling, IL - May 2, 2000 - The Wheeling Board of Trustees voted to accept a $100,000 Local Law Enforcement Block Grant awarded by the Cook County Board of Commissioners to pay for a series of community-outreach programs aimed at combating gang and drug crime. The funding will allow the department to expand its outreach efforts to enlist graduates of the Citizens Police Academy and Neighborhood Watch groups as additional eyes and ears on suspicious behavior, establish better communication with the community, and provide liaison between police and youths at risk.

Based on funds originating with the U.S. Department of Justice, the grant will underwrite both existing efforts (in the form of overtime paid to officers involved in gang- and drug-related arrests) and the new outreach programs.

The department anticipates enhancing its communications equipment to establish a "Reverse, Enhanced 911" emergency response capability. Similar to a reverse caller-ID system, the new equipment will sharply reduce notification times to specific sections of the village that might require notification in the event of criminal activity or public emergency. A Reverse, Enhanced 911 system can reduce notification and feedback times.

Community crime-prevention programs will be expanded because of the new funding. In a proposed program called VISION (Very Important Scouts in Our Neighborhood), graduates of the Citizens Police Academy and members of Neighborhood Watch groups will spend up to four hours a night patrolling the Village. Driving their own vehicles and equipped with two-way communications, they will keep an eye out for such activities as suspicious gatherings that could indicate gang or drug activity. They will notify the police dispatcher about what they find so a patrol officer can investigate.

The grant also provides the wherewithal to continue the week-long Police and Children Together (PACT) camp, which is intended to provide a positive experience for youths at risk of gang and other criminal pressure. 

"We want to help them have a good summer," said Youth Investigator Mike Porzycki. "If they stay out of trouble this is how they can expect to enjoy their lives. It's also a powerful way to build trust between the officers and the kids."

Wheeling was selected to receive the money after its success with a similar grant in 1999.  Those funds provided for last year's Rape Aggression Defense training for women, among other things.

"All activities and initiatives undertaken under the grant will be reviewed and evaluated for success and possible continuation into the future," said Commander Eric Larson, who heads the Wheeling Support Service Division.

Diversity of Activities Planned to Celebrate Wheeling Multicultural Month 

Wheeling, IL — April 29, 2000 — The Village of Wheeling, local businesses, Indian Trails Public Library and Wheeling High School will kick off a flurry of activities beginning May 1 to mark the arrival of Multicultural Month in Wheeling. Established by a proclamation from the Board of Trustees, Multicultural Month will be commemorated by events designed to lower barriers and promote understanding among the village's many cultural groups.

Corus Bank plans to assemble an employee-built display of dolls and curios from other cultures. "We have many employees from different cultures and ethnic backgrounds," said Trustee Judy Abruscato, who manages the Wheeling bank branch.

The Wheeling office of stock brokerage Edward Jones is developing an essay-writing contest for students under the age of 18 on the theme "How Embracing Diversity Improves Economic Conditions." Entries should be mailed to or dropped off at Edward Jones, 848 Wheeling Rd., no later than May 18. The winner of the contest will be notified by May 23 and receive $50.

Senior executives at Orval Kent, the Wheeling-based national supplier of fresh salad products, will put on aprons to prepare lunch for the company's 225 local employees, approximately 65 percent of whom are Hispanic. The lunch will occur on May 5 to celebrate Cinco de Mayo, a traditional Mexican holiday.

Indian Trails Public Library will herald Multicultural Month with a series of events beginning May 1 and culminating on May 13. The library's Multi-Cultural Festival will include everything from a slide tour of China and storytelling to music, dancing and crafts.

Wheeling High School's ethnic-interest groups will present their annual "Display of Cultures" for students and the community on May 12 featuring dancing from many lands.

On May 13, the Village of Wheeling will stage "Pageant of Nations — A Multicultural Event. the festival, organized for the first time this year, will be held from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. behind Village Hall, 255 W. Dundee Rd. The schedule: 11 a.m.: Mexican Mariachi music; Noon: dancers from Wheeling High School's "Display of Cultures"; 1 p.m.: Japan Big Drums; 2:15 p.m. Allegrias Mexicanas dancers, St. Joseph the Worker church; 3:15 p.m.: World Beat Rhythms.

The festival will also feature magic, a variety of art, crafts, hands-on demonstrations for the kids and food from around the world provided by Rajput Indian Pakistani Cuisine, Mt. Prospect; Taqueria Alamo, Wheeling; and Taste of Hunan, Wheeling.

Wheeling Seeks Scholarship Candidates

Wheeling, IL - April 6, 2000 - Wheeling President Greg Klatecki today announced the availability of the Village's Seventh Annual Community Scholarship.

Awarded in conjunction with the Northwest Municipal Conference and The Workforce Development Council, the scholarship will be conferred on a promising Wheeling resident who meets certain financial criteria.

Additionally, the scholarship rules stipulate that the winner must have established education or career goals and shows an interest in completing courses that support those goals. Applicants also must demonstrate the ability to complete those courses. Coursework supported by the scholarship must be taken at an approved Illinois educational institution.

The scholarship fund is maintained exclusively from funds contributed by local businesses.  The exact amount of the scholarship award will be based on the level of contributions.

In the past, scholarship recipients have attended such institutions as University of Illinois at Champaign-Urbana; Northern Illinois University; Northeastern Illinois and others. Scholarship support also may be applied to community college courses and for all education-related costs such as books, tuition and fees.

Application forms for the scholarship are available on the Village website and at Village Hall, 255 W. Dundee Rd., Wheeling. The deadline for filing the application and two references is 3:00pm, April 21, 2000.  The recipient will be notified by May 12, 2000.

Wheeling Resident Receives "Woman of Achievement Award" 

Wheeling, IL - March 17, 2000 - Lt. Gov. Corinne Wood has honored long-time Wheeling community participant Pat Drewes with the Illinois Woman of Achievement Award. Drewes, who currently chairs the Wheeling Board of Health and is its former vice-chair, was nominated for the award by Village President Greg Klatecki.

Drewes was recognized for "her accomplishments...contributions to the community, and...dedication to the advancement of women and girls."  President Klatecki cited Drewes' 27-year residence in the Village, during which time she spearheaded the police department's KIDWATCH program that teaches safety and health awareness to school-aged children. Drewes also has done volunteer work at the Wheeling Pavilion Senior Center, twice conducted the Walk Across Wheeling for Children with AIDS, and worked for five years on the annual Make a Difference Day celebration.

Klatecki also mentioned Drewes' past work with Public Action to Deliver Shelter, where she collected goods and money for the organization. Additionally, Klatecki recognized her participation in the development of the Wheeling 2000 and Beyond strategic plan.  

"Residents of the Village of Wheeling are fortunate to have Pat Drewes for all that she gives to the community," Klatecki said.

Wheeling Cops Help Raise $66,000 for Kids

Wheeling, IL - March 17, 2000 - Twenty-four members of the Wheeling Police Department took off their hats and put on their bowling shoes to help raise $65,987 for Big Brothers Big Sisters of Metropolitan Chicago.

The police-keglers were among 945 bowlers from the Cook County Sheriff's Office, the State's Attorney's office and other local police departments. The annual Cops for Kids bowl-a-thon was held at nine Chicagoland bowling alleys.

The Wheeling team helped raise $11,726 in pledges at Elk Grove Bowl in Elk Grove Village.  Top bowlers from Wheeling were Corporal Mark McInerney, who rolled a 614 for the series. Patrol Officer Jim McCarrick was second with a 436 series.

The 2000 bowl-a-thon marked the 18th year that representatives from law-enforcement went out to raise money for the Big Brothers-Big Sisters organization.

Wheeling Board Declares May "Multicultural Month"

Wheeling, Illinois - February 9, 2000 - The Wheeling Board of Trustees has designated May 2000 as Multicultural Month in the village.  In a proclamation passed at their February 7 meeting, trustees pointed to the village's history "steeped in the traditions of many cultures and nationalities where more than two dozen languages are spoken."

The proclamation came in anticipation of a variety of multicultural events planned for the month of May.  The village is sponsoring "Pageant of Nations," a multicultural art festival scheduled for May 13 at Village Hall.  Wheeling High School will conduct its traditional "Display of Cultures" on May 12.  And Indian Trails Public Library will stage its Multicultural Festival during the first two weeks of May.  The events also will coincide with Cinco de Mayo, the Mexican day of independence.

The proclamation recognizes Wheeling's "positive reputation of many fine restaurants offering food from many lands."  It further asserts that the village "benefits from the diversity of people and thought...as a vital strength of the community."

In signing the proclamation, Village President Greg Klatecki called "upon the citizens of the Village of Wheeling to support this worthy endeavor."  Klatecki also encouraged all business entities within the village to mark the month with their own commemorative activities.  "To make this a truly community-wide event," Klatecki said, "businesses may wish to sponsor musical groups, exhibits or other celebrations."

The village plans to provide businesses with a menu of possible endeavors that would both promote their enterprises and mark Multicultural Month.  Businesses may also choose to develop their own events.