Each year since its incorporation in 2001, the Village commemorates its anniversary by planting a tree. As part of the celebration, Homer Glen also recognizes its citizens who generously donate their time and expertise by volunteering on various committees, commissions, agencies, and task forces throughout the year.
Tree Planting Ceremony
On May 17, 2005, Mayor Russ Petrizzo and the newly elected Village Board joined other village officials, staff, volunteers and citizens for the Fourth Annual Anniversary Tree Planting Ceremony to commemorate the Village's fourth anniversary as a village. The site selected for the tree planting this year is Culver Park on Parker Road and 146th street and is located by the pond for all to enjoy. The turnout this year was great with over 40 people coming out to this year's celebration. The tree, an Autumn Blaze Maple, was donated by A Touch of Green.
Volunteer Recognition
At a recent village board meeting in May, Homer Glen celebrated its 4th annual Volunteer Recognition ceremonies. All 106 volunteer names were announced and each volunteer was awarded a gold volunteer pin and a Homer Glen t-shirt with the Village's logo. Homer Glen gave special recognition to five individuals this year for Outstanding Volunteer of the Year and each one was also awarded a plaque in thanks of their special commitment to the village. Each volunteer of the year has gone beyond the duties expected by committee, task force or commission members in taking on extra responsibilities and tasks.
Mayor Petrizzo stated, "This community would not be what it is today without the hundreds of volunteers who have offered their time and efforts to help this village succeed. We very much appreciate their dedication, hard work and their many diverse talents they bring to the village."
The following five people are the award winners for 2005 Outstanding Volunteer of the Year:
Larry Conrath
Larry was recently appointed chairman of the Public Safety Committee and is a past member of the Administration and Finance group having worked on the creation of a purchasing policy, the hiring of a village manager and creating the Village's first budget. Most recently, Larry helped to create an emergency management handbook with critical information and contacts for local agencies.
David Krivickas
David is a member of Homer Glen's Emergency Management Agency. David gives many hours of his personal time dedicated to the safety of residents, whether it be directing traffic at accidents or large events or helping to equip emergency vehicles. David is always there when there is an emergency call out and the first person to volunteer for special details.
Joe Maska
Joe is currently on the Plan Commission, Sign Task Force and was a past member of the Comprehensive Plan Committee. Joe is an original member of the Plan Commission and dedicates countless hours pouring over plans for development within the village. He is always willing to pitch in and his contributions are always thoughtful and fair.
Candace Rose
Candace has been the Recording Secretary for the Plan Commission for over three years. Candace attends all meetings, is very punctual and takes very articulate notes, as it is very important to have an accurate record of minutes on this Commission. Candace freely gives her input in regard to development and is an integral part of the process.
Bill Ward
Bill is a member of the Storm Water Task Force and the GIS Committee. Bill has attended village board meetings and given presentations to the Villae Board and residents on the importance of storm water management practices to protect Homer Glen from creating flooding issues in the future. Bill is very well versed in floodplain and wetland restoration, ordinances and researches many issues for the village.