PROCLAMATION FOR WORLD POLIO DAY 2024
WHEREAS, the Rotary Club of Bartlett is a member of Rotary International, the world' s first, and still one of its largest, non- profit service organizations, founded in Chicago, Illinois, in 1905; and

WHEREAS, the Rotary motto " Service Above Self' inspires members to provide humanitarian service, encourage high ethical standards, and promote good will and peace in the world; and

WHEREAS, Rotary, a global service organization with over 1. 4 million members, has been at the center of the worldwide effort to eradicate polio for over 35 years. Rotary has contributed more than $ 2. 6 billion and countless volunteer hours to protect nearly 3 billion children in 122 Countries; and

WHEREAS, Polio is a paralyzing and potentially deadly infectious disease that most commonly affects  children under the age of 5. The virus spreads from person to person, typically through contaminated water; and

WHEREAS, members of the Rotary Club of Bartlett continue to contribute their time and their resources to support PolioPlus and the Global Polio Eradication Initiative; and

WHEREAS, their efforts are providing much needed operational support, medical personnel, laboratory equipment and educational materials for health workers and parents;

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Kevin Wallace, President of the Village of Bartlett, do hereby proclaim October 15, 2024, as World Polio Day in Bartlett, and do hereby encourage all residents to join the Rotarians of our local club in the fight for a polio-free world.

Dated this 15th day of October 2024

Proclamation Arts DuPage - A DuPage Foundation Initiative

WHEREAS, Arts DuPage has regularly issued official proclamations to all the cities and villages in DuPage County on an annual basis, designating October as Arts DuPage Month; and

WHEREAS, the arts embody much of the accumulated wisdom, intellect and imagination of humankind; and

WHEREAS, the arts enrich us as individuals and play a unique role in the lives of our families and our  communities; and

WHEREAS, the arts promote a better understanding of the diversified cultures within our communities and unify us regardless of age, race and ethnicity; and

WHEREAS, the arts sector in DuPage County consists of 2, 272 arts -related businesses and accounts for 4.2 percent of the total number of businesses in the region — a larger share of the economy than  transportation, tourism, agriculture and construction; and

WHEREAS, the arts provide full- time employment for over 15, 000 workers in DuPage County; and

WHEREAS, the arts improve our economy, enrich our civic life, drive tourism and commerce, and exert a profound positive influence on the education of our children; and

WHEREAS, the arts helped lead us through the darkest times by lifting our spirits, unifying communities and providing entertainment. The arts also play a vital role in enlivening our communities, driving the economy, and elevating the appeal of our County.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that I Kevin Wallace, Village President, do hereby proclaim October 2024 as Arts DuPage Month in the Village of Bartlett and call upon our community members to celebrate and promote the arts in DuPage County.

Dated this 1st day of October 2024

PROCLAMATION FOR NATIONAL THINK TRAIN WEEK
WHEREAS, Think Train Week is to be held across the U.S. from September 23-29, 2024; and

WHEREAS, 2,192 railroad crossing collisions resulted in 765 personal injuries and were responsible for 248 fatalities in the United States during 2023; and

WHEREAS, 1,378 pedestrian trespassing casualties have occurred in the United States resulting in 663 pedestrians being killed and another 715 injured while trespassing on railroad property rights of way during 2023; and

WHEREAS, educating and informing the public about rail safety (reminding the public that railroad right of ways are private property, enhancing public awareness of the dangers associated with highway rail grade crossings, ensuring pedestrians and motorists are looking and listening while near railways, and obeying established traffic laws) will reduce the number of avoidable fatalities and injuries caused by incidents involving trains and citizens; and

WHEREAS, the International Association of Chiefs of Police, National Operation Lifesaver Inc., United States Department of Transportation, and all local, state, county, and railroad law enforcement officers, first responders, and railroad corporations commit to partnering together in an effort to educate at a national level all aspects of railroad safety, to enforce applicable laws in support of National Think Train Week;

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Kevin Wallace, President of the Village of Bartlett, do hereby attest my full support proclaiming September 23 to September 29, 2024, National Think Train Week and I encourage all citizens to recognize the importance of rail safety education.

Dated this 17th day of September 2024.

Proclamation National Night Out 2024 August 6, 2024

WHEREAS, the National Association of Town Watch (NATW) is sponsoring a unique, nationwide crime, drug and violence prevention program on Tuesday, August 6, 2024 entitled “National Night Out”; and

WHEREAS, the “41st Annual National Night Out” provides an exceptional opportunity for Bartlett, Illinois to join forces with thousands of other communities across the country in promoting cooperative, police-community crime prevention efforts; and

WHEREAS, the Village of Bartlett plays a vital role in assisting Bartlett Police Department through joint crime, drug and violence prevention efforts in Bartlett, Illinois and has supported “National Night Out” locally since 1993; and

WHEREAS, it is essential all citizens of the Village of Bartlett be aware of the importance of crime prevention programs and understand the impact their participation can have on reducing crime, drugs and violence in Bartlett, Illinois; and

WHEREAS, police-community partnerships, neighborhood safety, awareness and cooperation are essential themes of the “National Night Out” program;

NOW, THEREFORE, I, VILLAGE PRESIDENT KEVIN WALLACE, do hereby call upon all citizens of Bartlett, Illinois to join the VILLAGE OF BARTLETT and the National Association of Town Watch in supporting the “41st Annual National Night Out” on Tuesday, August 6, 2024.

FURTHER, LET IT BE RESOLVED THA I, VILLAGE PRESIDENT KEVIN WALLACE, do hereby proclaim Tuesday, August 6, 2024 as “NATIONAL NIGHT OUT” in Bartlett, Illinois.

A PROCLAMATION RECOGNIZING EXECUTIVE SECRETARY LORNA GILESS UPON HER RETIREMENT FROM THE VILLAGE OF BARTLETT

WHEREAS, Lorna Giless was hired as a secretary for the Village of Bartlett Finance Department in May of 2007 and eight years later moved to the Administration Department as the executive secretary; and

WHEREAS, Lorna also is currently serving in her fourth term as the elected Bartlett Village Clerk and will continue in that official capacity until 2025; and

WHEREAS, during her 17-year tenure with the village and her dual public service roles, Lorna likely has prepared, organized and otherwise managed just about every document, report, ordinance, budget, and other public record for the village; and

WHEREAS, Lorna’s exceptional time-management skills, her easy flexibility and her incomparable ability to multi-task in a municipal environment that is sometimes fast-paced and other times snail-paced have proven to be invaluable to me, to the trustees, to our village administrator and all of our departments. Her tireless efforts keep us mostly on time and always on track; and

WHEREAS, the Village is forever appreciative that Lorna has made the smooth and efficient operation of Bartlett’s administration office and the support of our municipal government her full-time job for 17 years;

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Kevin Wallace, President of the Village of Bartlett, Cook, DuPage and Kane Counties, offer our many, many thanks to Executive Secretary Lorna Giless for her service. We are proud to have had you as an employee in the Village of Bartlett and we wish you a retirement free from worries about agendas and minutes and filled instead with a calendar of fun travel to warm and sunny places and many years of good health and much happiness.

Dated this 21st Day of May 2024

NATIONAL PUBLIC WORKS WEEK PROCLAMATION MAY 19-25
“ADVANCING QUALITY OF LIFE FOR ALL”

WHEREAS, public works professionals focus on infrastructure, facilities and services that are of vital importance to sustainable and resilient communities and to the public health, high quality of life and well-being of the people of the Village of Bartlett; and

WHEREAS, these infrastructure, facilities and services could not be provided without the dedicated efforts of public works professionals, who are engineers, managers, and employees at all levels of government and the private sector, who are responsible for rebuilding, improving, and protecting our nation’s transportation, water supply, water treatment and solid waste systems, public buildings, and other structures and facilities essential for our citizens; and

WHEREAS, it is in the public interest for the citizens, civic leaders and children in the Village of Bartlett to gain knowledge of and to maintain an ongoing interest and understanding of the importance of public works and public works programs in their respective communities; and

WHEREAS, the year 2024 marks the 64th annual National Public Works Week sponsored by the American Public Works Association;

NOW THEREFORE, I, Kevin Wallace, Village President, do hereby designate the week May 19 - 25, 2024 as National Public Works Week; I urge all citizens to join with representatives of the American Public Works Association and government agencies in activities, events, and ceremonies designed to pay tribute to our public works professionals, engineers, managers, and employees and to recognize the substantial contributions they make to protecting our national health, safety, and advancing quality of life for all.

Dated the 21st of May, 2024

PROCLAMATION
NATIONAL POLICE WEEK MAY 12 - 18, 2024

WHEREAS, the Congress and President of the United States have designated May 15th as Peace Officers Memorial Day, and the week in which it falls as National Police Week; and

WHEREAS, the members of the Bartlett Police Department play an essential role in safeguarding the rights and freedoms of the citizens of Bartlett; and 

WHEREAS, it is important that all citizens know and understand the duties and responsibilities of their police department, and that members of our police department recognize their duty to serve the people by safeguarding life and property, by protecting them against violence and disorder, and by protecting the innocent against deception and the weak against oppression or intimidation; and

WHEREAS, the Bartlett Police Department has grown to be a modern and nationally accredited law enforcement agency which unceasingly provides a vital public service; 

Now, therefore, I, Kevin Wallace, Village President, call upon all citizens of Bartlett and upon all patriotic, civil and educational organizations to observe the week of May 12th through 18th, as National Police Week to commemorate police officers, past and present, who by their faithful and loyal devotion to their responsibilities, have rendered a dedicated service to their communities and, in doing so, have established for themselves an enviable and enduring reputation for preserving the rights and security of all citizens.

I further call upon all citizens of Bartlett to observe Wednesday, May 15th, as Peace Officers Memorial Day to honor those peace officers who, through their courageous deeds, have lost their lives or have become disabled in the performance of duty, and let us recognize and pay respect to the survivors of our fallen heroes.

Dated the 7th day of May 2024

A PROCLAMATION RECOGNIZING BARTLETT RESIDENT ROY ENGSTROM, WINNER OF THE 2023- 2024 GOVERNOR' S VOLUNTEER SERVICE AWARD

WHEREAS, the Governor' s Volunteer Service Award recognizes individual volunteers in order to highlight the importance of volunteerism and community service; and

WHEREAS, unsurprisingly to us, no candidate was more deserving of the 2023- 2024 Governor' s Award than Bartlett resident Roy Engstrom, whose decades of selfless volunteerism is unmatched in our community and whose positive impact on our village continues to resonate through the generations -- past, present and future; and

WHEREAS, in 1970, when the population of Bartlett was 716 and the park district was less than a decade old, Roy established the Bartlett Little League, an organization that grew to be one of the largest little leagues in the state. Not only was he president of that organization for 10 years, he initiated construction of our community' s first baseball diamond in 1972 and was instrumental in the construction of Ruzicka Park, Apple Orchard Park, Leiseberg Park and the Jensen Pavilion, donating labor and materials to their construction; and

WHEREAS, the Bartlett Lions Club, one of our oldest civic groups, has enriched our community through eye glass collections and eye health screenings, coordination of the annual visit from Santa, the Independence Day Parade and more. And Roy has been right there with them, a Lions Club member for 50 years, who has done everything from flipping flapjacks at their pancake breakfasts to organizing the Lions Club Charity Golf Outing for over 25 years; and

WHEREAS, Roy is also a founding member of the Bartlett 4th of July Committee, and 30 years later continues to serve this all -volunteer community group that organizes and manages a multi -day Independence Day celebration that never fails to make joyful family memories and strengthen the fabric of our community; and

WHEREAS, the list of volunteer activities mentioned here, just scratch the surface of everything Roy has done to connect our community and stoke the " hometown" feelings that nourish our residents.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Kevin Wallace, President of the Village of Bartlett, Cook, DuPage and Kane Counties, offer our many, many thanks to Bartlett resident, lifelong volunteer and valued friend Roy Engstrom for his many decades of generous service to the Village of Bartlett.

Dated this 7th Day of May 2024

VILLAGE OF BARTLETT PROCLAMATION RECOGNIZING MAY 2024 AS BIKE MONTH

WHEREAS, the bicycle provides a viable and environmentally sound form of transportation and is an excellent tool for recreation and enjoyment of the Village of Bartlett' s scenic beauty; and

WHEREAS, The Village of Bartlett' s application to become a Bicycle Friendly Community received an honorable mention by the League of American Bicyclists;

WHEREAS, the Village of Bartlett' s Bike and Run Advisory Committee promotes safe bike and pedestrian activities on the Village' s bike path system and encourages participation in Bike to Work Week May 13- 19 and Bike to Work Day on May 17th; 

WHEREAS, Ride Illinois is educating cyclists and motorists as to the proper and safe operation of bicycles at www. rideillinois. org/ safety/ bike- safety- quiz; and WHEREAS, The Village of Bartlett, Bartlett Park District, DuPage County Forest Preserve, Spin Doctor Cyclewerks and independent cyclists throughout our Village are promoting greater public awareness of bicycle operations and safety education in an effort
to reduce accidents, injuries and fatalities for all. 

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Kevin Wallace, Village President of the Village of Bartlett, Cook, DuPage and Kane Counties, Illinois, do hereby proudly proclaim the month of May, 2024 as Bike Month in Bartlett.

Dated this 7th day of May, 2024

A PROCLAMATION RECOGNIZING IT COORDINATOR CHRIS HOSTETLER UPON HIS RETIREMENT FROM THE VILLAGE OF BARTLETT

WHEREAS, Chris Hostetler was hired as an administrative assistant for the Village of Bartlett in 1996, and for 28 years has deftly aligned his strengths, his interests and his professional role with both the pressing and the emerging administrative and information technology needs of the village; and

WHEREAS, Chris earned a master of public administration degree from NIU with an academic focus on information management, database management and information systems and government, and after gaining experience as the " unofficial network administrator and technical support specialist" for the village, he pivoted to his formal position of IT Coordinator; and

WHEREAS, with patience and persistence, Chris guided our village government from an analog world to a digital one, from implementing and designing the first network in Public Works and the first e- mail system to overseeing Bartlett' s very first website to his always diligent introduction of new technologies and modern software to ensure the efficient delivery of village services; and

WHEREAS, his strong work ethic and his quiet reliability as a problem solver has always made Chris invaluable, perhaps his greatest strength is his ability to work equally well with department heads, employees, and vendors alike; and

WHEREAS, the Village is forever appreciative that Chris has made the maintenance of Bartlett' s IT infrastructure and the support of our municipal government his full- time job for 25- plus years;

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Kevin Wallace, President of the Village of Bartlett, Cook, DuPage and Kane Counties, offer our many, many thanks to Information Technology Coordinator Chris Hostetler for his service. We are proud to have had you as an employee in the Village of Bartlett and we wish you a retirement free of worries about malware and cybersecurity and filled with many years of good health and much happiness.

Dated this 7th Day of May 2024

A PROCLAMATION RECOGNIZING POLICE OFFICER MANNY PEREZ UPON HIS RETIREMENT FROM THE VILLAGE OF BARTLETT

WHEREAS, Officer Manny Perez was sworn in as a Bartlett Police Officer on March 2, 2004; and

WHEREAS, for over 20 years of dedicated service, Manny served in many roles at the police department including Patrol Officer, Directed Patrol Team, DuPage Metropolitan Enforcement Group, Honor Guard, Recruitment Team, and DEA Task Force; and

WHEREAS, Manny participated in many supporting capacities within the department throughout his career as a Drug Investigator and Gang Specialist; and

WHEREAS, Manny belonged to the Midwest Gang Investigators Association and the Illinois Tactical Officer Association, as well as received certifications in Electronic Criminal Surveillance and DEA Narcotics and Dangerous Drugs, which directly affected the overall professionalism and effectiveness of officers serving
the Village; and

WHEREAS, the Village is forever proud of Manny' s many accolades and awards during his career which include: a 2008 Certificate of Commendation, a 2011 Meritorious Service Award, multiple Shift Citations, and MADD' s ( Mothers Against Drunk Driving) Award; and

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Kevin Wallace, President of the Village of Bartlett, Cook, DuPage, and Kane Counties, offer our sincere gratitude to Officer Manny Perez for his 20 years of service to the Bartlett community. His extraordinary service and dedication to the police department and the Village of Bartlett have positively
impacted many lives throughout his career. We wish him a retirement filled with good health and much happiness.

Dated this 7th Day of May 2024

WHEREAS, Rita Fletcher began her career with the Bartlett Park District in 1986 as a recreation supervisor, was promoted to assistant superintendent of recreation and then superintendent of recreation before being named executive director of the park district in 2005; and

WHEREAS, in 2011 Rita was named the Distinguished Professional of the Year by the Great Lakes Network of the National Recreation and Park Association for the leadership, accomplishments and significant contributions she had already earned as Bartlett Park District director at that time; and

WHEREAS, in October 2010, she successfully led the park district to pass the IPRA/IAPD Distinguished Accredited Agency Program, which uses standards to evaluate and identify agencies throughout the state that provide exceptional park and recreations services; and

WHEREAS, in quick succession, she steered the passing of an $18 million bond referendum in November 2010, to renovate and expand the then 18-year-old Bartlett Aquatic Center and to purchase and renovate the 138-acre, Villa Olivia golf course, banquet and ski facility, making Bartlett the only park district in Illinois with a ski hill; and

WHEREAS, in 2016, when The Illinois Park & Recreation Association selected Rita as its Board Chair-Elect, the organization’s executive director said, “Rita’s leadership style is to always ask good questions - why are we doing something, how will that be perceived by our members and the public, and what problem are we trying to solve” and concluded by saying that Rita has a passion for parks and recreation, which we here in Bartlett have always known and more importantly have always benefitted from; and

WHEREAS, during her park district career, Rita has been a tireless public servant, an attentive financial overseer; a faithful steward for our open space, a respected leader, colleague and friend, and an exceptional engineer of FUN, who has more than earned our high regard and admiration; and

WHEREAS, the Village of Bartlett will remember fondly every year that we have worked beside Rita to reach a common goal and will always recognize the important role she played in making Bartlett the community it is today, a great place to live and a fun place to play;

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Kevin Wallace, President of the Village of Bartlett, Cook, DuPage and Kane Counties, do hereby extend our deep appreciation to Bartlett Park District Director Rita Fletcher for her many years of service to our village and wish her great health and much happiness in her retirement.

Dated this 2nd day of April 2024

 
WHEREAS, autism, or autism spectrum disorder, refers to a broad range of conditions characterized by challenges with social skills, repetitive behaviors, speech and nonverbal communication; and

WHEREAS, each individual living with autism experiences it differently, according to the Centers for Disease Control, in the United States today, autism affects an estimated 1 in 36 children and 1 in 45 adults; and

WHEREAS, every April since 2007, when the United Nations General Assembly first designated April 2nd as World Autism Awareness Day, the advocacy group Autism Speaks has been celebrating World Autism Month, sharing stories and providing opportunities to increase understanding and acceptance of people with autism; and

WHEREAS, this developmental disability is still misunderstood, and autistic individuals continue to face obstacles when seeking employment, health care, education, and housing. It is our obligation to affirm and promote the full realization of all human rights and fundamental freedoms for autistic people and to move beyond raising awareness to promoting acceptance and appreciation of them and their contributions to society; and

WHEREAS, this World Autism Month and beyond, let’s join Autism Speaks to “fearlessly stand for a world where autistic people are recognized and have the opportunities they deserve; to respect and support those with autism; and to be true friends and advocates of the full autistic community;’’

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Kevin Wallace, President of the Village of Bartlett, Cook, DuPage and Kane Counties, do hereby proclaim today, April 2, as World Autism Awareness Day in Bartlett and call upon everyone in the village to honor April as World Autism Month and work together to help create a world in which autistic individuals are fully supported, championed and celebrated.

Dated this 2nd Day of April, 2024

A PROCLAMATION RECOGNIZING POLICE OFFICER JAMES ZEFO UPON HIS RETIREMENT FROM THE VILLAGE OF BARTLETT 

WHEREAS, Officer James Zefo was sworn in as a Bartlett Police Officer on April 16, 1996; and

WHEREAS, for 28 years of dedicated service, James served in many roles at the police department, including Patrol Officer, Elderly Services Officer, and Juvenile Officer; and

WHEREAS, James participated in many supporting capacities within the department throughout his career, including a Crash Investigator and Hostage Negotiator; and

WHEREAS, the Village is forever proud of James' many accolades and awards during his career, which include: 1 Life Saving Award, 1 Blue Knight Award, 8 Employee of the Month Awards, 4 Unit Shift Citations, and MADD' s ( Mothers Against Drunk Driving) Hero; and

WHEREAS, most notably over his 28 years of service, James identified and arrested over 500 motorists who were operating their vehicles while intoxicated, which directly affected the overall safety of other motorists traveling within the Village;

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Kevin Wallace, President of the Village of Bartlett, Cook, DuPage and Kane Counties, offer our sincere gratitude to Officer James Zefo for his 28 years of service to the Bartlett community. His extraordinary service and dedication to the police department, and the Village of Bartlett has positively
impacted on many lives throughout his career, and we wish you a retirement filled with good health and much happiness.

Dated this 6th Day of February 2024

WHEREAS, the Village of Bartlett is enriched by its diverse cultural, ethnic, and religious landscape, including a significant Hindu American population; and

WHEREAS, the Village of Bartlett appreciates the valuable contributions of Hindu Americans in various fields like education, science, law, medicine, and technology, and acknowledges their profound community service; and

WHEREAS, 2023 marks significant anniversaries related to Hinduism's impact on the United States, including Swami Vivekananda's 1893 address at the World’s Parliament of Religions in Chicago; and

WHEREAS, Hindu Americans uphold the principles of tolerance, pluralism, and religious freedom, and contribute positively to Bartlett’s vitality and well being; and

WHEREAS, the Hindu community celebrates various cultural events and festivals in Bartlett, including Diwali, which promotes the message of triumph of good over evil and light over darkness; and

WHEREAS, Hindu Americans are engaged in selfless service, known as "seva," towards their fellow human beings, which enhances the social fabric of Bartlett; and

WHEREAS, Ahimsa, a foundational principle of noninjury and nonviolence in Hinduism, aligns with Bartlett’s commitment to fostering a community of respect and unity; and

WHEREAS, Hindu Americans continue to face instances of discrimination, harassment, and hate crimes, underscoring the need for increased awareness and understanding; 

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT PROCLAIMED, that I, Kevin Wallace, Village President of the Village of Bartlett, along with the Village Board, do hereby designate the month of October 2023 as Hindu American Awareness and Appreciation Month in the Village of Bartlett, reaffirming our dedication to diversity, inclusivity, and mutual respect.

Dated this 17th Day of October 2023

PROCLAMATION FOR WORLD POLIO DAY 2023

WHEREAS, the Rotary Club of Bartlett is a member of Rotary International, the world's first, and still one of its largest, non-profit service organizations, founded in Chicago, Illinois, in 1905; and

WHEREAS, the Rotary motto “Service Above Self" inspires members to provide humanitarian service, encourage high ethical standards, and promote good will and peace in the world; and

WHEREAS, Rotary, a global service organization with over 1.4 million members, has been at the center of the worldwide effort to eradicate polio for over three decades. Every year, through a funding partnership with the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, Rotary has contributed more than $2.6 billion and countless volunteer hours to end polio forever.

WHEREAS, the recent detection of the vaccine-derived poliovirus type 2 case in New York and isolates in several environmental samples collected in London are stark reminders that as long as polio exists anywhere, it is a threat everywhere; and

WHEREAS, members of the Rotary Club of Bartlett continue to contribute their time and their resources to support PolioPlus and the Global Polio Eradication Initiative; and

WHEREAS, their efforts are providing much needed operational support, medical personnel, laboratory equipment and educational materials for health workers and parents;

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Kevin Wallace, President of the Village of Bartlett, do hereby proclaim October 17, 2023, as World Polio Day in Bartlett, and do hereby encourage all residents to join the Rotarians of our local club in the fight for a polio-free world.

Dated this 17th day of October 2023.

WHEREAS, the arts embody much of the accumulated wisdom, intellect and imagination of humankind; and

WHEREAS, the arts enrich us as individuals and play a unique role in the lives of our families and our communities; and

WHEREAS, the arts promote a better understanding of the diversified cultures within our communities and unify us regardless of age, race and ethnicity; and

WHEREAS, the arts sector in DuPage County consists of 2,272 arts -related businesses and accounts for 4.2 percent of the total number of businesses in the region — a larger share of the economy than transportation, tourism, agriculture and construction; and

WHEREAS, the arts provide full- time employment for over 15,000 workers in DuPage County; and

WHEREAS, the arts improve our economy, enrich our civic life, drive tourism and commerce, and exert a profound positive influence on the education of our children; and

WHEREAS, the arts helped lead us through the darkest times by lifting our spirits, unifying communities and providing entertainment. The arts also play a vital role in enlivening our communities, driving the economy, and elevating the appeal of our County.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that I Kevin Wallace, Village President, do hereby proclaim October 2023 as Arts DuPage Month in the Village of Bartlett and call upon our community members to celebrate and promote the arts in DuPage County.

Dated this 3rd day of October 2023

A PROCLAMATION RECOGNIZING MICHAEL POREMBA FOR HIS SERVICE
ON THE BARTLETT POLICE PENSION FUND BOARD OF TRUSTEES

WHEREAS, the Bartlett Police Pension Fund Board of Trustees oversees the administration of the police pension fund that benefits Bartlett police officers and their beneficiaries upon the conclusion of their service to the community; and

WHEREAS, Mike Poremba is a long-time Bartlett resident who holds a degree in accounting from DePaul University and has professional experience in the financial field working first for Kemper Insurance and currently as a vice president for Zurich North America; and

WHEREAS, Mike’s tenure on the Pension Board coincided with a period of great turnover and transition for the police department and he generously shared his time, his insight and his input to help direct the fund’s investments and distributions for the welfare and well-being of our police officers; and

WHEREAS, Mike’s demonstrated commitment to serving our community calls forth our great pride in calling him a Bartlett resident and one of our tremendous civic volunteers;

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Kevin Wallace, President of the Village of Bartlett, Cook, DuPage and Kane Counties, extend our deep appreciation to Mike Poremba for his distinguished service on the Police Pension Fund Board and offer him our continued best wishes.

Dated this 3rd Day of October 2023

A PROCLAMATION TO REMEMBER LONG-TIME RESIDENT AND
BARTLETT RAIDERS CO-FOUNDER AND COACH GEORGE WERDERICH

WHEREAS, commercial airline pilot George Werderich and flight attendant Anita Schaeffer were married in 1969, moved to Bartlett in 1971, quickly planted roots in their new community and raised their four children Bob, Wally, Annette and Margie in that first house they bought in the village; and

WHEREAS, George studied journalism in college, his lifelong passion for sports and especially football began with his time on the reserve squad at Waller High School in Chicago, continued when he played 3rd string lineman for Montana State University and the club team at the University of Chicago and then coached various kinds of teams in Blue Island, Mokena, Hanover Park and Bartlett; and

WHEREAS, in 1972, George and a small group of Bartlett friends began the Bartlett Athletic Association, a youth football program that incorporated on September 26 of that year. The first teams, the heavier Raiders and the light-weight Shadows, were accepted into the Elgin Pop Warner League in the summer of 1973; and

WHEREAS, George organized and coached the Raiders for the next 12 years, his coaching legacy also includes time coaching at Elgin High School, Larkin High School, and Tefft Middle School as well as being a baseball coach for Bartlett State Bank Little League; and

WHEREAS, in addition to coaching youth sports, George wore many other hats, including that of a flight instructor who could point to more than 100 professional pilots who in some way can trace their aviation tutelage back to him. He was also a train and model train enthusiast and, most importantly of all, a loving husband, father and grandfather;

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Kevin Wallace, President of the Village of Bartlett, Cook, DuPage and Kane Counties, ask everyone in the community to join me in extending heartfelt condolences to George’s family for their loss. Please know that he will always be appreciated for his exceptional service and will be fondly remembered as a kind and caring friend to the Village of Bartlett.

A PROCLAMATION RECOGNIZING POLICE K- 9 DOG LUTHER' S RETIREMENT
FROM THE VILLAGE OF BARTLETT

WHEREAS, Police K- 9 Dog Luther joined the Bartlett Police Department as a basic service dog and in canine narcotic contraband detection in June of 2014 after completing the 380- hour training program through TOPS in Dog Training Corporation and the Northeast Multi - Regional Training; and

WHEREAS, for over 9 years of loyal and dedicated service, our esteemed Police K- 9 Luther has exemplified the highest standards of duty and courage while serving the Village of Bartlett; and

WHEREAS, Police K- 9 Luther served on the Northern Illinois Police Alarm System Mobile Field Force K- 9 Team to provide member agencies with a rapid, organized, and disciplined response to civil disorder, crowd control, or other tactical situations; and

WHEREAS, Police K- 9 Luther participated in various police and community presentations and special events; and

WHEREAS, Police K- 9 Luther was credited with reuniting family members on numerous occasions after being deployed to search and locate missing or endangered individuals; and

WHEREAS, Police K- 9 Luther was responsible for the successful apprehension of suspects wanted for  residential burglary in 2016, a suspect wanted for burglary in 2016, a suspect in a retail theft/ resisting arrest incident in 2016, a suspect wanted for kidnapping with a firearm in 2018, and a suspect wanted for resisting arrest, as well as on an outstanding warrant for domestic battery in 2022; and

WHEREAS, Police K- 9 Luther was responsible for locating and the recovery of firearms used in the commission of various crimes, as well as over 600 grams of cannabis, cocaine, and other illegal controlled substances; and

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Kevin Wallace, President of the Village of Bartlett, Cook, DuPage and Kane Counties, offer our sincere gratitude to Police K- 9 Luther for his 9 years of service to the Bartlett community. As he transitions into retirement, we extend our heartfelt wishes for a joyous and well-deserved life of relaxation, comfort, and companionship with his handler, Officer Michael W. Kmiecik, and his family.

Dated this 15th Day of August 2023

A PROCLAMATION RECOGNIZING POLICE OFFICER MICHAEL W. KMIECIK
UPON HIS RETIREMENT FROM THE VILLAGE OF BARTLETT

WHEREAS, Officer Michael Kmiecik was sworn in as a Bartlett Police Officer on July 9, 1999; and

WHEREAS, for over 24 years of dedicated service, Michael served in many different capacities for the police department including Patrol Officer, Traffic Unit Officer, Crime Prevention Officer, D. A. R. E. Officer, Juvenile Officer, Mobile Field Force Lieutenant, and Round Table Team member; and

WHEREAS, for the past 19 years, Michael served as a Police K- 9 handler for Brewster and Luther, who apprehended three burglary suspects in 2006, an armed robbery suspect in 2007, a homicide suspect in 2008, two attempted homicide suspects in 2010, three arson suspects in 2011, two burglary suspects in 2012, two armed robbery suspects in 2013, a residential burglary suspect in 2016, and a kidnapping with firearm suspect in 2018; and

WHEREAS, Michael served as an in- house use of force and range training instructor, during which time he served a critical role in the training and mentoring of our police officers and helped establish several of the certified training programs within the police department after the SAFE- T Act was implemented in 2020; and

WHEREAS, Michael helped plan and organize the Village of Bartlett' s 1st place National Night Out celebration in 2004; and

WHEREAS, the Village is forever proud of Michael' s many accolades and awards during his career which include the 2011 Police Officer of the Year, Cook County Sheriffs Merit Award, two Meritorious Service Awards, 2014 Life Saving Award, five Unit Citations, ten Employee of the Month Awards, and a Certificate of Commendation;

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Kevin Wallace, President of the Village of Bartlett, Cook, DuPage and Kane Counties, offer our sincere gratitude to Officer Michael Kmiecik for his more than 24 years of service to the Bartlett community. His extraordinary service and dedication to the police department and the Village of Bartlett has positively impacted many lives throughout his career and we wish you a retirement filled with good health and much happiness. 

Dated this 15th Day of August 2023

PROCLAMATION RECOGNIZING TAMMY SCHULZ FOR HER 30 YEARS OF SERVICE TO THE VILLAGE OF BARTLETT

WHEREAS, on June 10, 2023, Sergeant Tammy Schulz celebrated her 30th anniversary with the Village of Bartlett; and

WHEREAS, Tammy was sworn in as a Bartlett police officer on June 10, 1993, and then promoted to the rank of sergeant on September 11, 2020; and

WHEREAS, Tammy obtained her bachelor’s degree in criminal justice management in 2006, and then her master’s in organizational leadership in 2008; and

WHEREAS, Tammy served in many different capacities within the police department during her 30 years of dedicated service including a patrol officer, detective, school resource officer, evidence technician, crime prevention officer, D.A.R.E. instructor; and

WHEREAS, Tammy was instrumental in creating several of the police department’s past and current community-based policing programs including the D.A.R.E. car washes, Stranger Danger Puppet Shows, and D.A.R.E. Family Fishing Derby; and

WHEREAS, the Village and its stakeholders are eternally grateful for Tammy’s service, her passion, and her commitment to fulfill the police department’s mission to “Serve with
Care and Protect with Confidence”; and

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Kevin Wallace, President of the Village of Bartlett, Cook, DuPage, and Kane Counties, Illinois hereby proclaim a happy anniversary of thirty years to Sergeant Tammy Schulz.

Dated this 18th day of July, 2023

NATIONAL PUBLIC WORKS WEEK PROCLAMATION
MAY 21 - 27, 2023
“CONNECTING THE WORLD THROUGH PUBLIC WORKS”

WHEREAS, public works professionals focus on infrastructure, facilities and services that are of vital importance to sustainable and resilient communities and to the public health, high quality of life and well-being of the people of the Village of Bartlett; and

WHEREAS, these infrastructure, facilities and services could not be provided without the dedicated efforts of public works professionals, who are engineers, managers, and employees at all levels of government and the private sector, who are responsible for rebuilding, improving, and protecting our nation’s transportation, water supply, water treatment and solid waste systems, public buildings, and other structures and facilities essential for our citizens; and

WHEREAS, it is in the public interest for the citizens, civic leaders and children in the Village of Bartlett to gain knowledge of and to maintain an ongoing interest and understanding of the importance of public works and public works programs in their respective communities; and

WHEREAS, the year 2023 marks the 63rd annual National Public Works Week sponsored by the American Public Works Association;

NOW THEREFORE, I, Kevin Wallace, Village President, do hereby designate the week May21-27, 2023 as National Public Works Week; I urge all citizens to join with representatives of the American Public Works Association and government agencies in activities, events, and ceremonies designed to pay tribute to our public works professionals, engineers, managers, and employees and to recognize the substantial contributions they make to protecting our national health, safety, and quality of life.

Dated the 16th of May, 2023

A PROCLAMATION CELEBRATING THE RETIREMENT OF PASTOR SUSAN TYRREL OF IMMANUEL UNITED CHURCH OF CHRIST

WHEREAS, Immanuel United Church of Christ Pastor Susan Tyrrel earned her Bachelor of Arts degree from Elmhurst College, a UCC affiliated college, and went on to earn her Master of Divinity degree from Andover Newton Theological School, near Boston; and

WHEREAS, Reverend Tyrrel first served as an associate minister, from 1984 until 1988, at St. Paul UCC in Elgin, where she and her husband Arthur live and where they raised their two children, while she simultaneously filled in for clergy all over the Fox Valley area and took on a variety of wider church roles; and

WHEREAS, Reverend Tyrrel also served as adjunct minister at Immanuel UCC in Streamwood from 1994 to 2007; as the part-time youth minister at St. Paul UCC, Elgin, from 2005 to 2008; and as a hospital chaplain intern at Advocate Good Shepherd Hospital in Barrington during 2009; and

WHEREAS, since 2010, Pastor Susan Tyrrel has joyfully served Immanuel United Church of Christ and has been instrumental in continuing this congregation’s practice of being both a "united and uniting church,” sponsoring Boy Scout Troop 26, extending its facilities to other local groups, like AA and embracing the wider Bartlett community by joining in village celebrations and events; and

WHEREAS, during her 13-year tenure Pastor Sue kindly presided over the blessing of pets at Bartlett Park during Heritage Days; merrily opened the church doors each year for a holiday open house, granny’s attic, craft sale and bake sale to accompany the village’s annual tree lighting; and supported the work of the Bartlett History Museum by making the archival records of Bartlett’s oldest continuing congregation readily available and helping to increase residents’ knowledge and awareness of our rich heritage;

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Kevin Wallace, President of the Village of Bartlett, Cook, DuPage and Kane Counties, offer ou rmany, many thanks to Pastor Susan Tyrrel fo rher years of
compassionate ministry and church leadership and for generously including our Bartlett community with Immanuel United’s community of faith and fellowship. We wish you a retirement filled with good health and much happiness.

Dated this 16th day of May 2023

PROCLAMATION NATIONAL POLICE WEEK MAY 14-20, 2023
WHEREAS, the Congress and President of the United States have designated May 15th as Peace Officers Memorial Day, and the week in which it falls as National PoliceWeek; and

WHEREAS, the members of the Bartlett Police Department play an essential role in safeguarding the rights and freedoms of the citizens of Bartlett; and

WHEREAS, it is important that all citizens know and understand the duties and responsibilities of their police department, and that members of our police department recognize their duty to serve the people by safeguarding life and property, by protecting them against violence and disorder, and by protecting the innocent against deception and the weak against oppression or intimidation; and

WHEREAS, the Bartlett Police Department has grown to be a modern and nationally accredited law enforcement agency which unceasingly provides a vital public service;

NOW THEREFORE, I, Kevin Wallace, Village President, call upon all citizens of Bartlett and upon all patriotic, civil and educational organizations to observe the week of May 14 through 20, as National Police Week to commemorate police officers, past and  present, who by their faithful and loyal devotion to their responsibilities, have rendered a dedicated service to their communities and, in doing so, have established for themselves an enviable and enduring reputation for preserving the rights and security of all citizens.

I further call upon all citizens of Bartlett to observe Monday, May15th, as Peace Officers Memorial Day to honor those peace officers who, through their courageous deeds, have lost their lives or have become disabled in the performance of duty, and let us recognize and pay respect to the survivors of our fallen heroes.

Dated the 2nd day of May, 2023.

BUILDING SAFETY MONTH PROCLAMATION

WHEREAS, the Village of Bartlett is committed to addressing the critical issues of safety, energy efficiency, and resilience in our residential, commercial and industrial buildings that serve our
citizens, both in everyday life and in times of natural disaster; and

WHEREAS, our confidence in these buildings is achieved through the diligence of the building safety and fire prevention officials, architects, engineers, builders, tradespeople, design professionals, laborers, plumbers and others in the construction industry, who work year-round to ensure the safe construction of buildings; and

WHEREAS, modern building codes include safeguards to protect the public from natural disasters, such as hurricanes, snowstorms, tornadoes, wildland fires, floods and earthquakes; and

WHEREAS, Building Safety Month is sponsored by the International Code Council to remind the public about the critical role of our communities’ largely unknown protectors of public safety -- our local code officials -- who assure us of safe, sustainable, energy efficient and livable buildings that are essential to America’s prosperity; and

WHEREAS, “Safety for All: Building Codes in Action," the theme for Building Safety Month 2023, encourages all Americans to become more aware of th eimportance of safe and resilient construction; fire prevention; disaster mitigation, energy conservation; water safety; training the next generation; and new technologies in the construction industry; and

WHEREAS, each year, in observance of Building Safety Month, Americans are asked to consider projects to improve building safety at home and in the community, and to acknowledge the essential service provided to all of us by local and state building departments and federal agencies in protecting lives and ensuring the safety of the properties where we live, learn, work, worship and play.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Kevin Wallace, President of the Village of Bartlett, Cook, DuPage and Kane Counties, do hereby proclaim the month of May 2023 as BUILDING SAFETY MONTH in the Village of Bartlett.

Dated this 2nd day of May, 2023

PROCLAMATION RECOGNIZING POLICE OFFICER ERIC L. ROGER UPON HIS RETIREMENT FROM THE VILLAGE OF BARTLETT

WHEREAS, Officer Eric L. Roger was sworn in as a Bartlett Police Officer on May 4, 1999; and

WHEREAS, for 24 years of dedicated service, Eric served in many roles at the police department including Patrol Officer, Directed Patrol Team Officer, Traffic Unit, Investigations, Field Training Officer, Juvenile Officer, and Truck Enforcement Officer; and

WHEREAS, in 2014, Eric served as an investigator on the newly created MCAT’s Serious Traffic Accident Reconstruction Team that specialized in major traffic crash investigations. For nine years, he played a critical role in the investigations of and positive resolutions of many high-profile fatal crashes within Bartlett and throughout the surrounding area communities.

WHEREAS, Eric was also responsible for completing an intense application for the Illinois Traffic Safety Challenge, which our police department was presented with a second-place award and a third-place award in the municipal police agency with 51-65 police officers’ category, as well as the railroad crossing safety award; and

WHEREAS, Eric participated in many supporting capacities within the department throughout his career as an Evidence Technician, Crisis Intervention Team Member, Round Table Team Member, Policy Review Committee Team Member, Crash Reconstruction Specialist, and Crash Investigator; and

WHEREAS, the Village is forever proud of Eric's many accolades and awards during his career which include: 2006 Police Officer of the Year, 2007 Cook County Sheriffs Merit Award, a Life Saving Award, two Shift Citations, a Unit Citation, a Certificate of Commendation, IDOT Achievement Letter for 75 DUI’s, Alliance Against Intoxicated Motorists Award for DUI Enforcement, and five Employee of the Month Awards;

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Kevin Wallace, President of the Village of Bartlett, Cook, DuPage and Kane Counties, offer our sincere gratitude to Officer Eric L. Roger for his 24 years of service to the Bartlett community. His extraordinary service and dedication to the police department, and the Village of Bartlett has positively impacted many lives throughout his career and we wish you a retirement filled with good health and much happiness.

Dated this 2nd Day of May 2023

A PROCLAMATION RECOGNIZING POLICE OFFICER CHRIS PEARSON
UPON HIS RETIREMENT FROM THE VILLAGE OF BARTLETT

WHEREAS, Officer Chris Pearson was sworn in as a Bartlett Police Officer on April 4th, 2003, and;

WHEREAS, during his 20 years of service, Chris has served in capacities of Patrol Officer, Evidence Technician, Juvenile Officer, and Crisis Intervention Team Officer; and

WHEREAS, during his career with the Bartlett Police Department, Chris has been awarded Employee of the Month honors on multiple occasions and received a Shift Citation in 2019; and

WHEREAS, Chris has lent his creative talents and technological skills to the creation of commemorative class videos for many Citizen Police Academy classes, thereby contributing to lasting memories and building of meaningful community relationships; and

WHEREAS, Chris has trained, educated and mentored many police recruits and future successful police officers in his roles throughout the years as a Field Training Officer and Suburban Law Enforcement Academy Class Supervisor; and

WHEREAS, Chris has contributed in immeasurable ways to the safety and wellness of dozens of our officers over the years by serving as an Emergency Vehicle Operator’s Course Instructor;

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Kevin Wallace, President of the Village of Bartlett, Cook, DuPage and Kane Counties, offer our many, many thanks to Bartlett Police Department’s Chris Pearson for his twenty years of service. We are proud to have had you as a police officer in the Village of Bartlett and we wish you a retirement
filled with good health and much happiness.

Dated this 18th Day of April 2023
Kevin Wallace, Village President

ARBOR DAY PROCLAMATION

WHEREAS, in 1872, J. Sterling Morton proposed to the Nebraska Board of Agriculture that a special day be set aside for the planting of trees; and

WHEREAS, this holiday, called Arbor Day, was first observed with the planting of more than a million trees in Nebraska; and

WHEREAS, Arbor Day is now observed throughout the nation and the world; and

WHEREAS, trees can be a solution to combating climate change by reducing the erosion of our precious topsoil by wind and water, cutting heating and cooling costs, moderating the temperature, cleaning the air, producing life-giving oxygen, and providing habitat for wildlife; and

WHEREAS, trees are a renewable resource giving us paper, wood for our homes, fuel for our fires, and countless other wood products; and

WHEREAS, trees in our village increase property values, enhance the economic vitality of business areas, and beautify ou rcommunity; and

WHEREAS, trees, wherever they are planted, are a source of joy and spiritual renewal.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Kevin Wallace, President of the Village of Bartlett, Cook, DuPage, and Kane Counties, Illinois, do hereby proclaim April 28, 2023 as Arbor Day in the Village of Bartlett, and urge all citizens to celebrate Arbor Day and to support efforts to protect our trees and woodlands,; and

FURTHER, I urge all citizens to plant trees to gladden the heart and promote the well=being of this and future generations.

Dated this 18th day of April 2023
Kevin Wallace, Village President

BARTLETT WOMAN'S CLUB 85-YEAR ANNIVERSARY PROCLAMATION 

WHEREAS, Bartlett's Bide-a-Wee Club was organized in 1936 by nine women who discussed the problems of the day while needles and thimbles clicked and crochet hooks flew; and 

WHEREAS, that original club changed its name to the Bartlett Woman's Club on December 30, 1937, beginning the 85 years of "service to the community, promotion of good fellowship and the advancement of intellectual culture" that we celebrate here tonight; and 

WHEREAS, each decade of Bartlett's history since 1937 bears the stamp of the helping hands and philanthropic efforts of the Bartlett Woman's Club; and 

WHEREAS, club members collected "Bundles for Britain" and raised $1,000 for the construction of Bartlett Park's Log Cabin in the 1940s; purchased playground equipment and bike racks following the formation of the Bartlett Park District in the 1960s; began an ongoing scholarship program for high school seniors and women returning to the work force in 1976; and helped our Village celebrate its 100th birthday with a generous contribution towards the centennial gazebo in 1991; and 

WHEREAS, at this milepost in the group's history, multiple generations of women, mothers and daughters, aunts and cousins have served and socialized side by side, hosting craft fairs and bunny lunches, fashion shows and candidate nights, always ready to support the next worthy cause with the club's unique mix of fund raising and just plain fun; 

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Kevin Wallace, President of the Village of Bartlett, Cook, DuPage, and Kane Counties, Illinois, do hereby congratulate the extraordinary ladies of the Bartlett Woman's Club, Bartlett's oldest service organization and thank them for the many years of kindness and dedication that they have shown us. 

Dated this 6th day of December 2022 
Kevin Wallace, Village President

A PROCLAMATION RECOGNIZING POLICE OFFICER CHRISTOPHER MEADE
UPON HIS RETIREMENT FROM THE VILLAGE OF BARTLETT 

WHEREAS, Officer Christopher Meade was sworn in as a Bartlett Police Officer on January 9, 2003; and
 
WHEREAS, for 20 years of dedicated service, Christopher served in many different capacities for the police department including Patrol Officer, Directed Patrol Team Officer, Detective, Crisis Intervention Team Member, Juvenile Officer, Computer Crimes Officer, Gang Specialist, Officer-in-Charge, and Field Training Officer; and 

WHEREAS, Christopher was a valued member of several multi-jurisdictional task forces including Cook County's Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force, Secret Service Cyber Crimes Task Force, DuPage County's Metropolitan Emergency Response and Investigations Team, Cook County's Major Case Assistance Team (MCAT); and 

WHEREAS, Christopher was appointed to the position of Deputy Director of MCAT in 2015; and 

WHEREAS, Christopher's steadfast dedication to serving the most vulnerable in our population has led to over 600 years in total sentenced prison times relating to child pornography and child exploitation cases; and 

WHEREAS, the Village is proud of Christopher's many accolades and awards during his career which include the following: a Certificate of Commendation, a Chicago Police Department Joint Operations Award, Unit Citations, Employee of the Month nominations and awards, two Meritorious Service Awards; and 

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Kevin Wallace, President of the Village of Bartlett, Cook, DuPage and Kane Counties, offer our sincere gratitude to Officer Christopher Meade for his 20 years of service to the Bartlett community. His service and dedication to the police department and the Village of Bartlett have positively impacted many lives throughout his career and we wish him a retirement filled with good health and much happiness. 

Dated this 18th Day of October 2022 
Kevin Wallace, Village President

A PROCLAMATION RECOGNIZING COMMUNITY SERVICE OFFICER JOHN TEEVANS
UPON HIS RETIREMENT FROM THE VILLAGE OF BARTLETT 

WHEREAS, John Teevans was hired as a Community Service Officer on June 6, 2014 after retiring from the Wheeling Police Department after 28 years of service; and

WHEREAS, for more than eight years of dedicated service, John served in many different capacities within the police department, which include the following: a Certified Child Safety Seat Technician, Community Service Officer, Field Training Officer, Round Table Team member, and Emergency Management Team member; and 

WHEREAS, the village is proud of John's many accolades and awards that he earned during his career which include the following: Employee of the Month award, two Civilian Employee of the Year awards, and three Unit Citations; and 

WHEREAS, John has become the face of the police department who has consistently brought pride and distinction to the entire village by his social media appearances; 

WHEREAS, John has been an invaluable employee of the Village of Bartlett, and his unwavering commitment has not gone unnoticed by the community, his coworkers, and village personnel. His friendly, outgoing character truly exemplifies his willingness to do things the Bartlett way to serve our community, and we will miss him dearly; and 

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Kevin Wallace, President of the Village of Bartlett, Cook, DuPage and Kane Counties, offer our sincere gratitude to Community Service Officer John Teevans for his more than 8 years of service to the Bartlett community. We wish him a retirement filled with good health and much happiness. 

Dated this 181h day of October 2022 
Kevin Wallace, Village President

A PROCLAMATION CELEBRATING THE 50TH ANNIVERSARY OF BARTLETT PUBLIC LIBRARY DISTRICT 

WHEREAS, a lending library was set up in 1968 in the Bartlett municipal building by a Volunteer library association, the official start of the Bartlett Public Library District was in 1972, when village residents voted to establish the district; and 

WHEREAS, the first formally recognized Bartlett Public Library opened in village hall at 228 S. Main Street in 1973 with Ruth Stuenkel selected as library director the following year; and 

WHEREAS, the library space was expanded to 3,100 square feet in 1975, when the old post office building at 301 W. Railroad was purchased for the growing service; and 

WHEREAS, Bartlett Public Library moved again in 1983 to its current address at 800 S. Bartlett Road, where the originally constructed 7,100 square foot building has been enlarged twice, first with a 4,500 square foot addition in 1988 and then a two-story, 22,000 square foot addition completed in 1995. The library building also underwent a complete remodel in 2008 - 2009 and another renovation in 2015 to create additional study rooms, conference rooms and an art room; and 

WHEREAS, in addition to the changes in its physical space, the library has also updated its online catalog and introduced downloadable materials, has expanded its circulation department and has formed the Friends of the Bartlett Library and established the Bartlett Public Library District Foundation to further serve the needs of our community; and 

WHEREAS, the village is proud to have this modern, full service library district working for all the children, teens and adults in Bartlett, providing us with books, DVDs, CDs, video games, magazines, newspapers and other reading material, games and family resource kits, access to computers and other digital materials and resources, as well as a wide variety of programs and events to enrich our lives and add to our personal enjoyment. 

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Kevin Wallace, President of the Village of Bartlett, Cook, DuPage and Kane Counties, do hereby wish Bartlett Public Library District and all of its patrons and friends a very happy 50th anniversary, and furthermore, we thank this outstanding civic body for everything it does to fulfill its vision "of becoming an essential place in community life" and its mission "to be the Best Place to Learn & Discover." 

Dated this 18th day of October 2022 
Kevin Wallace, Village President

Proclamation - Arts DuPage

WHEREAS, Arts DuPage has regularly issued official proclamations to all the cities and villages in DuPage County on an annual basis, designating October as Arts DuPage Month; and 

WHEREAS, the arts embody much of the accumulated wisdom, intellect and imagination of humankind; and 

WHEREAS, the arts enrich us as individuals and play a unique role in the lives of our families and our communities; and 

WHEREAS, the arts promote a better understanding of the diversified cultures within our communities and unify us regardless of age, race and ethnicity; and 

WHEREAS, the arts sector in DuPage County consists of 2,272 arts-related businesses and accounts for 4.2 percent of the total number of businesses in the region - a larger share of the economy than transportation, tourism, agriculture and construction; and 

WHEREAS, the arts provide full-time employment for over 15,000 workers in DuPage County; and 

WHEREAS, the arts improve our economy, enrich our civic life, drive tourism and commerce, and exert a profound positive influence on the education of our children; and 

WHEREAS, the arts helped lead us through the darkest times of the pandemic by lifting our spirits, unifying communities and providing entertainment. Now, the arts are playing a vital role in rebuilding our communities, jumpstarting the economy, and leading us back to normalcy. 

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that I, Kevin Wallace, President of the Village of Bartlett, Cook, DuPage and Kane Counties, do hereby proclaim October 2022 as Arts DuPage Month in the Village of Bartlett and call upon our community members to celebrate and promote the arts in DuPage County. 

Dated this 4th day of October, 2022 
Kevin Wallace, Village President

PROCLAMATION FOR WORLD POLIO DAY 2022

WHEREAS, the Rotary Club of Bartlett is a member of Rotary International, the world's first, and still one of its largest, non-profit service organizations, founded in Chicago, Illinois, in 1905; and 

WHEREAS, the Rotary motto "Service Above Self' inspires members to provide humanitarian service, encourage high ethical standards, and promote good will and peace in the world; and 

WHEREAS, Rotary, a global service organization with over 1.4 million members, has been at the center of the worldwide effort to eradicate polio for over three decades. Every year, through a funding partnership with the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, Rotary has contributed more than $2.6 billion and countless volunteer hours to end polio forever. 

WHEREAS, the recent detection of the vaccine-derived polio virus type 2 case in New York and isolates in several environmental samples collected in London are stark reminders that as long as polio exists anywhere, it is a threat everywhere; and 

WHEREAS, members of the Rotary Club of Bartlett continue to contribute their time and their resources to support PolioPlus and the Global Polio Eradication Initiative; and 

WHEREAS, their efforts are providing much needed operational support, medical personnel, laboratory equipment and educational materials for health workers and parents; 

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Kevin Wallace, President of the Village of Bartlett, do hereby proclaim October 4, 2022, as World Polio Day in Bartlett, and do hereby encourage all residents to join the Rotarians of our local club in the fight for a polio-free world. 

Dated this 4th day of October 2022. 
Kevin Wallace, Village President

A PROCLAMATION CELEBRATING THE 130th ANNIVERSARY OF BARTLETT CEMETERY 

WHEREAS, Bartlett residents went to the polls in April of 1892 and voted 35 to 4 in favor of purchasing land for a municipal cemetery; and 

WHEREAS, a board committee consisting of August Schick, Charles F. Schultz and John C. Carr immediately took steps to procure a suitable piece of property to serve as a final resting place for the people of this new community; and

WHEREAS, on May 9, 1892 the village board of trustees agreed to issue bonds totaling $1,000 to complete the purchase of a 6-acre tract at the end of North Avenue from Bartlett shopkeeper and former trustee Henry Waterman and in October of that same year, the site was officially dedicated as Bartlett Cemetery; and 

WHEREAS, prior to the dedication, trustees passed Ordinance No. 38, which contained 21 sections concerned with the many aspects of running and caring for the new cemetery, including setting values for the lots, which ranged from $5 to $30, and creating the office of village sexton, whose duties included reporting all cemetery deeds and internments under oath to the board and also hiring a designated grave digger; and 

WHEREAS, since Rev. Gustav Hagemann, the first minister of what is now Immanuel United Church of Christ, became the first adult to be buried at Bartlett Cemetery, it has become the burial ground for young and old, citizens and civic leaders, including George Struckman, Bartlett's first village president, who died on May 23, 1920, as well as five other village presidents, John J. O'Brien, Charles F. Schultz, Ben Schultz, William Tiknis, and John Buelting and multiple village trustees; and 

WHEREAS, for many decades, Bartlett Cemetery has always shined brightest during the annual Memorial Day Walk and Remembrance, when residents, family and friends turn out to honor the many, many local veterans, our village heroes, who are at rest there. 

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Kevin Wallace, President of the Village of Bartlett, Cook, DuPage and Kane Counties, do hereby call upon everyone to commemorate the 130th anniversary of Bartlett Cemetery. May it continue to serve our community as a beautiful place for people to come together to celebrate, mourn, reflect and remember what is sacred in life. 

Dated this 6th day of September 2022 
Kevin Wallace, Village President

A PROCLAMATION CELEBRATING THE 50th ANNIVERSARY OF VILLAGE CHURCH OF BARTLETT 

WHEREAS, this September, Village Church of Bartlett will celebrate 50 years since it was formed in the village and began its local mission of building trust, building bridges and serving the Bartlett community; and 

WHEREAS, for the Village of Bartlett, this 50th anniversary is another chance to recognize the vital partnership that has grown between the church and the Bartlett Police Department; a collaboration that began in 2019 as the Bartlett Community Care Initiative and then was expanded to other local communities and relaunched as Bartlett Community Care Collective (BC3); and 

WHEREAS, the BC3 partnership not only allows the church community to directly support the police department on the ground with tangible needs, through BC3, Village Church of Bartlett also provides for neighbors helping neighbors. It has organized both community­wide volunteer opportunities, such as days of service, blood drives and food drives, as well as individual partnerships to help with tasks like regular yard work, ongoing food needs and in-home visits; and 

WHEREAS, since 1972, Village Church has grown its congregation and has added to its ministries in order to provide for people's need at every stage of their life, men and women, moms, kids, students, young adults and perennials; and 

WHEREAS, for five decades, this welcoming place of worship has been a resource and a hub for the mental, physical and spiritual well-being of Bartlett, serving the community with unlimited kindness and compassion. 

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Kevin Wallace, President of the Village of Bartlett, Cook, DuPage and Kane Counties, do hereby proclaim a very, very happy milestone birthday to Village Church of Bartlett. May this community of fellowship and faith forever be a part of our village. 

Dated this 16th day of August 2022 
Kevin Wallace, Village President

A RESOLUTION RECOGNIZING CHIEF PATRICK ULLRICH 
UPON HIS RETIREMENT FROM THE VILLAGE OF BARTLETT 

WHEREAS, Patrick Ullrich, began his career with the Bartlett Police Department as a Community Service Officer on July 18, 1994 and continued in that role until August 6, 1995; and 

WHEREAS, Ullrich was sworn in as a Bartlett Police Officer on June 29, 1998; and

WHEREAS, Officer Ullrich was promoted to the rank of Sergeant on June 28, 2004, and appointed to the ranks of Commander on May 19, 2006, Deputy Chief on June 26, 2009, and Chief of Police on January 4, 2017; and 

WHEREAS, during his more than 25 years of dedicated service, Patrick Ullrich served in many different capacities for the police department including Patrol Officer, Juvenile Officer, Truck Enforcement Officer, Crime Prevention Officer, D.A.R.E. Instructor, and Emergency Vehicle Operator Course Instructor; and 

WHEREAS, Chief Ullrich extended his steadfast leadership to include service as a member of the DuPage County Chiefs of Police Association's Executive Board and as a Team Commander on the DuPage County Police Incident Management Assistance Team; and 

WHEREAS, during his five-year tenure as Chief of Police, Patrick not only brought innovations and advancements to the police department's physical space and technology but also enhancements and improvements to the well-being of officers, police staff and the Bartlett community. He oversaw construction of the brand new, state-of the art 48,982 square foot police facility and the implementation of the STARCOM21 interoperable radio communication system. He introduced the part-time social worker program, the police department's facility dog, and PERF's Integrating Communications, Assessment, and Tactics (ICAT) training for defusing critical incidents. He also was instrumental in the adoption of the Ten Shared Principles designed to build trust between law enforcement and communities of color; and 

WHEREAS, Chief Ullrich looked at many of the successful community-based policing programs in the department, such as the Police Department Open House, the award ­winning National Night Out celebrations, and the CALEA accreditation process and elevated them to the next level; 

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Kevin Wallace, President of the Village of Bartlett, Cook, DuPage and Kane Counties, offer our many, many thanks to Chief Patrick Ullrich for his service to the Bartlett community. His unwavering career commitment to the police department and the Village of Bartlett have positively impacted so many lives and we wholeheartedly wish him a retirement filled with good health and much happiness. 

Dated this 19th Day of July, 2022 
Kevin Wallace, Village President

A PROCLAMATION THANKING AARON REINKE FOR HIS SERVICE TO THE VILLAGE OF BARTLETT 

WHEREAS, the Village of Bartlett has benefitted from the hard work and commitment of Trustee Aaron Reinke during his nine years on the village board; and 

WHEREAS, Reinke was first elected as a village trustee in May 2013 and was re­elected again in 2017 and 2021; and 

WHEREAS, from day one, Aaron showed his readiness to confront the tough issues and work collaboratively for the betterment of our community, helping to speed up the village's development process, implementing the Bartlett Economic Development Assistance (BEDA) program and continuing to encourage commercial and industrial investment in Bartlett, including the Streets of Bartlett redevelopment project; and 

WHEREAS, during his tenure, Trustee Reinke's steady leadership and guidance enabled the village's successful completion of two major capital projects - the transition to Lake Michigan water and the construction of a new police facility that meets the needs of a modern law enforcement agency; and 

WHEREAS, he also worked to improve municipal transparency and open up communication with residents through increased board meeting information on the village website and an enhanced FOIA request system; and 

WHEREAS, Aaron's ties to the community were strengthened further by his enthusiastic civic service with the Bartlett Lions Club, the Bartlett Rotary, as the attorney for the Bartlett Area Chamber of Commerce and as a Bike and Run Plan Advisory Committee member; 

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Kevin Wallace, President of the Village of Bartlett, Cook, DuPage and Kane Counties, do hereby proclaim our many thanks to Trustee Aaron Reinke for his dedication to our village and offer him our very best wishes. 

Dated this 19th day of July, 2022 
Kevin Wallace, Village President

A PROCLAMATION RECOGNIZING PLANNING & DEVELOPMENT SERVICES DIRECTOR ROBERTA GRILL UPON HER RETIREMENT FROM THE VILLAGE OF BARTLETT 

WHEREAS, Roberta Grill, who holds a master's degree in city and regional planning from Memphis State University, was hired as the village planner in April 1990; and 

WHEREAS, Roberta was promoted to assistant community development director in 2000, was appointed acting community development director in 2018, and in March of 2019, became the village's first ever director of planning and development services when the building and community development departments were combined; and 

WHEREAS, it must have been predestined that Grill, whose maiden name is Roberta BARTLETI, early on in her career worked as a planning assistant for the City of BARTLETT, Tennessee and now, after 32 exemplary years here, is concluding her professional life in the Village of BARTLETI; and 

WHEREAS, Grill's vast knowledge of planning, zoning and community development made her an integral part of the team that guided the village through a boom in residential growth during which Bartlett added many high quality, desirable single and multi-family subdivisions, nearly doubled its population and then layered in senior and assisted living that will meet the needs of the village for generations to come; and 

WHEREAS, her experience with economic and urban development helped the Village to successfully attract business and commercial projects, such as the flourishing Brewster Creek Business Park and the many retail, dining and service businesses that make up the Route 59 corridor, and that she also has continued to skillfully shepherd the redevelopment of Bartlett's downtown, leading the way on a modern, transit oriented development plan and the highly successful revitalization of the Streets of Bartlett shopping center; and 

WHEREAS, during her long tenure with the village, she has seen the addition of Bartlett's first and second Starbuck's as well as its first backyard chicken coops; she has weighed in on the allowed height of fences and the regulations for business signs; she has been a witness to both the demolition of notable properties that were beyond repair and the construction of a new commuter train station, new civic buildings and is significantly ending on a high note with the full building permit application for Bartlett's new craft brewery, MORE Brewing, as the last official plan review of her career; and 

WHEREAS, the village is forever appreciative for the hand Roberta has had in shaping Bartlett for more than three decades, always balancing our economic growth with our residents' desire for a family-friendly community; 

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Kevin Wallace, President of the Village of Bartlett, Cook, DuPage and Kane Counties, offer our many, many thanks to Planning and Development Services Director Roberta Grill for her service to our municipality. We are proud to have had you as an employee in the Village of Bartlett and we wish you a retirement filled with family fun and leisurely pursuits and an abundance of good health and happiness. 

Dated this 7th day of June, 2022 
Kevin Wallace, Village President

PROCLAMATION 
NATIONAL PUBLIC WORKS WEEK MAY 15- 21, 2022 

WHEREAS, public works professionals focus on infrastructure, facilities, emergency management and services that are of vital importance to sustainable and resilient communities and to the public health, high quality of life and well-being of the people of the Village of Bartlett; and

WHEREAS, these infrastructure, facilities and services could not be provided without the dedicated efforts of public works professionals, who are federally mandated first responders, and the engineers, managers, and employees at all levels of government and the private sector, who are responsible for rebuilding, improving and protecting our nation's transportation, water supply, water treatment, forestry, public buildings and other structures and facilities essential for our residents; and, 

WHEREAS, it is in the public interest for the residents, civic leaders and children in the Village of Bartlett to gain knowledge of and to maintain ongoing interest and understanding of the importance of public works first responders and public works programs in their respective community; and, 

WHEREAS, the year of 2022 marks the 62nd annual National Public Works Week, sponsored by the American Public Works Association; 

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Kevin Wallace, Village President of the Village of Bartlett, Cook, DuPage and Kane Counties, do hereby proclaim May 15 - 21, 2022 as NATIONAL PUBLIC WORKS WEEK in the Village of Bartlett. I urge all citizens to join with representatives of the American Public Works Association and government agencies in activities, events and ceremonies designed to pay tribute to our public works professionals, engineers, managers and employees and to recognize the substantial contributions they make to protecting our national health, safety, and quality of life. 

Dated this 17th day of May, 2022
Kevin Wallace, Village President

PROCLAMATION 
PROCLAIMING MAY 9- MAY 13, 2022 AS ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT WEEK 

WHEREAS, the International Economic Development Council is the largest professional economic development organization dedicated to serving economic developers, and 

WHEREAS, the International Economic Development Council provides leadership and excellence in economic development for communities, members, and partners through conferences, training courses, advisory services and research, in-depth publications, public policy advocacy, and initiatives such as the Accredited Economic Development Organization program, the Certified Economic Developer designation, and the Entrepreneurship Development Professional, and 

WHEREAS, economic developers promote economic well-being and quality of life for their communities by creating, retaining, and expanding jobs that facilitate growth, enhance wealth, and provide a stable tax base, and 

WHEREAS, economic developers stimulate and incubate entrepreneurism in order to help establish the next generation of new businesses, which is the hallmark of the American economy, and 

WHEREAS, economic developers are engaged in a wide variety of settings including rural and urban, local, state, provincial, and federal governments, public-private partnerships, chambers of commerce, universities, and a variety of other institutions, and 

WHEREAS, economic developers attract and retain high-quality jobs, develop vibrant communities, and improve the quality of life in their regions, and 

WHEREAS, economic developers that work in the Village of Bartlett have sparked a new era of development in the Village of Bartlett with more to come;

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Kevin Wallace, President of the Village of Bartlett, Cook, DuPage and Kane Counties, do hereby proclaim the week of May 9 through May 13, 2022, as Economic Development Week, and remind individuals of the importance of this community celebration which supports expanding career opportunities and making lives better. 

Dated this 17th day of May 2022 
Kevin Wallace, Village President

Bulding Safety Month Proclamation

Whereas, the Village of Bartlett is committed to addressing the critical issues of safety, energy efficiency, and resilience in our residential, commercial and industrial buildings that serve our citizens, both in everyday life and in times of natural disaster, and; 

Whereas, our confidence in these buildings is achieved through the diligence of the building safety and fire prevention officials, architects, engineers, builders, tradespeople, design professionals, laborers, plumbers and others in the construction industry, who work year-round to ensure the safe construction of buildings, and; 

Whereas, modern building codes include safeguards to protect the public from natural disasters, such as hurricanes, snowstorms, tornadoes, wildland fires, floods and earthquakes, and; 

Whereas, Building Safety Month is sponsored by the International Code Council to remind the public about the critical role of our communities' largely unknown protectors of public safety -- our local code officials -- who assure us of safe, sustainable, energy efficient and livable buildings that are essential to America's prosperity, and; 

Whereas, "Safety for All: Building Codes in Action," the theme for Building Safety Month 2022, encourages all Americans to become more aware of the importance of safe and resilient construction; fire prevention; disaster mitigation, energy conservation; water safety; training the next generation; and new technologies in the construction industry; and 

Whereas, each year, in observance of Building Safety Month, Americans are asked to consider projects to improve building safety at home and in the community, and to acknowledge the essential service provided to all of us by local and state building departments and federal agencies in protecting lives and ensuring the safety of the properties where we live, learn, work, worship and play. 

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Kevin Wallace, President of the Village of Bartlett, Cook, DuPage and Kane Counties, do hereby proclaim the month of May 2022 as BUILDING SAFETY MONTH in the Village of Bartlett. 

Dated this 3rd day of May, 2022 
Kevin Wallace, Village President

PROCLAMATION FOR ANITA WERDERICH FOR HER LEADERSHIP IN SCOUTING 

WHEREAS, Anita Werderich is honored for her many years of leadership with both the Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts in Bartlett, and 

WHEREAS, Anita is a lifetime member of the Girl Scouts. She has generously given 50 years of her time in the Boy Scouts of America and 47 years in the Girl Scouts, and 

WHEREAS, her service in boy scouts includes: serving as a den mother for Cub Scouts, then as Cub Scout Master. As such she was the committee chair for Cub Scout Pack 26, setting the calendar and goals; served as Scoutmaster for Boy Scout Troop 26, and again Committee Chair and/or Committee Member for a period of over 30 years; participated in the Council Advancement Committee; served as co-chair of the Three Fires Council Advisory Board; served as staff member for Wood Badge training; led groups of youngsters to Philmont Scout Ranch for week long no-impact camping for 5 years, and 

WHEREAS, Anita has received numerous awards including an award of merit from the Two Rivers Council, the Silver Beaver Award from the Three Fires Council, and three years ago the Veteran's Award for 47 years of service, and 

WHEREAS, in Girl Scouts she served: 3 years as a Daisy Scout leader; 6 years as a Brownie Scout leader; 6 years as a Junior Scout leader; 6 years as a Cadette Scout leader (The girls in her troop all earned the Silver Award); 6 years as a Senior Scout leader. She received many leadership awards in Girl Scouts, so many, in fact, that she has lost track of specifics, and 

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Kevin Wallace, President of the Village of Bartlett, Cook, DuPage, and Kane Counties, Illinois, do hereby extend our deep appreciation to Anita Werderich for her distinguished service to the community. 

Dated this 3rd day of May 2022 
Kevin Wallace, Village President

VILLAGE OF BARTLETT PROCLAMATION RECOGNIZING MAY 2022 AS BIKE MONTH 

WHEREAS, for more than a century, the bicycle has been an important part of the lives of most Americans; and 

WHEREAS, today, millions of Americans engage in bicycling because it is a viable and environmentally sound form of transportation, an excellent form of fitness and provides quality family recreation; and 

WHEREAS, the Village of Bartlett's Bike and Run Advisory Committee promotes safe bike and pedestrian activities on the Village's bike path system; and 

WHEREAS, Ride Illinois is educating cyclists and motorists as to the proper and safe operation of bicycles at www.rideillinois.org/safety/bike-safety-quiz; and 

WHEREAS, The Village of Bartlett, the Bartlett Park District and the DuPage County Forest Preserve and independent cyclists throughout our Village are promoting greater public awareness of bicycle operations and safety education in an effort to reduce accidents, injuries and fatalities for all. 

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Kevin Wallace, Village President of the Village of Bartlett, Cook, DuPage and Kane Counties, Illinois, do hereby proudly proclaim the month of May, 2022 as Bike Month in Bartlett. 

Dated this 3rd day of May, 2022 
Kevin Wallace, Village President

A PROCLAMATION CELEBRATING THE 20th ANNIVERSARY OF ARTS IN BARTLETT 

WHEREAS, on Monday, April 29, 2002, about 60 people gathered at Bartlett Public Library to explore the possibility of a local arts council that would encourage education, participation and appreciation of the cultural arts in the Village of Bartlett; and 

WHEREAS, after just two public meetings to gauge community support for such a group, "Arts in Bartlett" was born and quickly recruited a board of directors, secured $2,000 in seed money from a philanthropic donor and began working to attain nonprofit status and gain widespread exposure in the village; and 

WHEREAS, since its start, Arts in Bartlett has been the cultural arts anchor in the community, bringing us monthly exhibits in the art gallery at Bartlett Village Hall; partnering with the village to help establish Miaoli City as our Sister City in Taiwan; supplementing art education in Bartlett elementary schools; and helping to bring public art to the downtown; and 

WHEREAS, the all-volunteer organization has grown and changed during its 20-year history, moving four times, until in 2014 it opened the Bartlett Center for the Arts in our downtown, which allows for expanded services to the community in the form of larger gallery space, children's art teachers, music studios offering piano, voice, and cello lessons, a fashion design stylist and a community room for networking events and performances; and 

WHEREAS, Arts in Bartlett mounted the village's first-ever juried art fair in August of 2003, that by 2017 had evolved into the Global Arts Festival, a colorful, exciting, inclusive weekend of multicultural music, art, crafts, dance and food, celebrating the diversity and the many nationalities within our community and this summer planned for June 11 & 12 at the Bartlett Park District's Jim Jenson Pavilion; and 

WHEREAS, the Village of Bartlett has a proud record of supporting and promoting Arts in Bartlett, recognizing the vital role it plays in our civic and economic well-being. 

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Kevin Wallace, President of the Village of Bartlett, Cook, DuPage and Kane Counties, do hereby wish Arts in Bartlett and all of its members and friends a very happy 20th anniversary, and furthermore, we thank this outstanding group for everything it does to fulfill its mission, "to celebrate the arts and personal creativity so that the community and each individual is enriched." 

Dated this 19th day of April 2022 
Kevin Wallace, Village President

ARBOR DAY PROCLAMATION 

WHEREAS, in 1872, J. Sterling Morton proposed to the Nebraska Board of Agriculture that a special day be set aside for the planting of trees, and 

WHEREAS, this holiday, called Arbor Day, was first observed with the planting of more than a million trees in Nebraska, and 

WHEREAS, Arbor Day is now observed throughout the nation and the world, and 

WHEREAS, trees can be a solution to combating climate change by reducing the erosion of our precious topsoil by wind and water, cutting heating and cooling costs, moderating the temperature, cleaning the air, producing life-giving oxygen, and providing habitat for wildlife, and 

WHEREAS, trees are a renewable resource giving us paper, wood for our homes, fuel for our fires, and countless other wood products, and 

WHEREAS, trees in our village increase property values, enhance the economic vitality of business areas, and beautify our community, and 

WHEREAS, trees, wherever they are planted, are a source of joy and spiritual renewal. 

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Kevin Wallace, President of the Village of Bartlett, Cook, DuPage, and Kane Counties, Illinois, do hereby proclaim April 29, 2022 as Arbor Day in the Village of Bartlett, and urge all citizens to celebrate Arbor Day and to support efforts to protect our trees and woodlands, and 

FURTHER, I urge all citizens to plant trees to gladden the heart and promote the well-being of this and future generations. 

Dated this 19th day of April 2022 
Kevin Wallace, Village President

VILLAGE OF BARTLETT PROCLAMATION 
Celebrating Hakka Month and 12 years of Bartlett's Sister City Relationship with Miaoli City, Taiwan 

WHEREAS, the Sister City Program, administered by Sister Cities International®, was initiated by President Dwight D. Eisenhower in 1956 to encourage greater friendship and understanding between the United States and other nations through direct personal contact; and 

WHEREAS, members of the Bartlett International Chorus and Arts in Bartlett arranged for the international Hakka Blue Shirts chorus to visit the Village of Bartlett in August of 2009; and 

WHEREAS, the mutual respect gained from that visit led to the establishment of Bartlett's sister city relationship with Miaoli City, Taiwan in 2010; and 

WHEREAS, friendship among people of different countries and cultures is a great force in creating peace, tranquility, harmony and understanding; and 

WHEREAS, during the past dozen years, we have shared art and photo exhibits, exchanged gifts and visits, and engaged in lively conversations with our Hakka friends that taught us that though we live many miles apart, we are more alike than we are different; and 

WHEREAS, at the beginning of the COVID-19 Pandemic Miaoli Mayor Cheng-Chun Chiu and his staff provided the village with an invaluable gift of 10,000 surgical masks to show "that Taiwan cares and Miaoli can help;" and 

WHEREAS, the Village of Bartlett wishes to acknowledge the 12-year relationship with our sister city, Miaoli City, Taiwan; 

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Kevin Wallace, President of the Village of Bartlett, Cook, DuPage and Kane Counties, do hereby Proclaim the Month of March as Hakka Month in the Village of Bartlett.

Dated this 15th Day of March 2022
Kevin Wallace, Village of Bartlett

A PROCLAMATION RECOGNIZING BARTLETT FIRE PROTECTION DISTRICT and BARTLETT PUBLIC WORKS CREWS FOR GOING ABOVE & BEYOND BATTLING A MASSIVE WAREHOUSE FIRE 

WHEREAS the fire at a 250,000 square foot document storage facility on Humbracht Circle in the Brewster Creek Business Park began at approximately 10 a.m. on Thursday, February 3, when a "few boxes" reportedly ignited; and 

WHEREAS the warehouse was stacked floor to ceiling with boxes of documents that provided substantial fuel for the fire that escalated quickly and burned for six days after tumbling storage racks blew firefighters "off their feet," took out the sprinkler system, and seriously compromised the structural integrity of the building; and 

WHEREAS a rotation of about 40 firefighters at a time worked around-the-clock during the multi-day fire, battling not only the blaze but single-digit temperatures that caused pumps, waterlines and the surrounding ground to freeze; and 

WHEREAS indomitable Bartlett Fire Chief William Gabrenya said "he has never experienced anything like what his agency dealt with" that week and remains grateful, as we all do, that no injuries occurred, adding also that "a lot of people really stepped up," including dozens of neighboring fire departments that assisted with equipment and personnel and community members who dropped off food and beverages; and 

WHEREAS the fire district received invaluable assistance with traffic direction, equipment, lighting and setting up portable toilets and warming tents from Hanover Township emergency services, Bartlett public works and police, PW crews deserve a special, loud shoutout for helping to maintain vital water levels when the fire district, at times, was using an estimated 2,000 to 3,000 gallons per minute; and 

WHEREAS all of these remarkable first responders did not just meet their responsibilities during this municipal emergency, they far exceeded expectations, overcoming challenging conditions, risking their own health and safety and working without pause to ensure the safety and well-being of our community. 

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Kevin Wallace, President of the Village of Bartlett, Cook, DuPage and Kane Counties, do hereby call upon all Bartlett citizens to recognize and honor the Bartlett Fire Protection District and everyone who supported them during this critical event; and to furthermore extend our immense gratitude to each and every one of these heroic and selfless individuals. 

Dated this 1 st Day of March 2022 
Kevin Wallace, Village President

A Proclamation Recognizing Patrol Commander Michael McGuigan upon his Retirement from the Village of Bartlett 

WHEREAS, Michael McGuigan began his career with the Bartlett Police Department as a Community Service Officer on May 5, 1995; and 

WHEREAS, Michael McGuigan was sworn in as a Bartlett Police Officer on June 24, 1996; and 

WHEREAS, Michael was promoted to the rank of Sergeant on June 20, 2003, and to the rank of Commander on June 26, 2009; and 

WHEREAS, for over 26 years of dedicated service, Michael served in many different capacities for the police department including Community Service Officer, Patrol Officer, Directed Patrol Team Officer, Honor Guard Member, Tactical Medical Officer, Public Information Officer, Round Table Team Member, Patrol Sergeant; and 

WHEREAS, Michael served in numerous supervisory and management roles within the police department to include: Bicycle Patrol Commander, Honor Guard Coordinator, Illinois Law Enforcement Alarm System (ILEAS) Coordinator; and 

WHEREAS, Michael trained dozens of police officers and village employees in life-saving measures as a lead instructor for CPR, First Aid, and AED use; and 

WHEREAS, Michael proudly represented the Bartlett Police Department as a Class Supervisor at the Suburban Law Enforcement Academy and as the Incident Management Assistance Team Commander of the Metropolitan Emergency Response and Investigative Team (MERIT); and 

WHEREAS, Michael served over a decade assisting in responses to large-scale events, developing disaster plans, and fostering an environment of safety, preparedness, and cooperation as the village's Emergency Management Team Coordinator; and 

WHEREAS, the village is proud of Michael's many accolades and awards during his career which include the following: Employee of the Month nominations and awards, several Unit Citations, two Life Saving Awards, the Cook County Sheriff's Award of Valor; and the Bartlett Police Department's Leadership Award; 

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Kevin Wallace, President of the Village of Bartlett, Cook, DuPage and Kane Counties, offer our sincere gratitude to Commander Michael McGuigan for his 26 years of service to the Bartlett community. His service and dedication to the police department and the Village of Bartlett have positively impacted many lives throughout his career and we wish him a retirement filled with good health and much happiness. 

Dated this 21st Day of December 2021 
Kevin Wallace, Village President

A PROCLAMATION HONORING BARTLETT RESIDENT RUTH BECKNER ON HER 90TH BIRTHDAY 

WHEREAS, one of our prominent residents Ruth Beckner recently celebrated her 901h birthday with family, friends and neighbors; and 

WHEREAS, it is our good fortune that as a young couple Ruth and her late husband Earl chose to make their home and raise their family in the Village of Bartlett; and 

WHEREAS, during her decades in the village, Ruth hasn't just watched the growth and development of our community, this tremendous civic volunteer has made Bartlett exponentially better through her dedication to the Bartlett Woman's Club, Arts in Bartlett, the Bartlett Historical Society and by her always reliable presence and participation in our community events and activities; and 

WHEREAS, Ruth's nonstop energy and her kind and generous spirit continues to be an inspiration to everyone in Bartlett who knows and loves her - and trust me when I say that is no small number; and 

WHEREAS, it is the hope of all of us, Ruth, that each of those 90 candles on your cake represents a sweet moment, a happy milestone, a memorable day filled with love and laughter, and it is our wish that there are many more cakes with many, many more candles in your future; 

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Kevin Wallace, President of the Village of Bartlett, Cook, DuPage and Kane Counties, on behalf of the village, wish you a very, very Happy 90th Birthday and many more years of health and well-being. 

Dated this 16th day of November, 2021 
Kevin Wallace, Village President

A Proclamation Recognizing Police Sergeant Jessica Crowley upon her Retirement from the Village of Bartlett 
WHEREAS, Sergeant Jessica Crowley was sworn in as a Bartlett Police Officer on September 21st, 1994; and 

WHEREAS, during 27 years of dedicated service, Jessica served in many different capacities for the police department including Patrol Officer, Directed Patrol Officer, and Suburban Law Enforcement Academy Class Supervisor; and 

WHEREAS, Jessica mentored and trained dozens of police officers as a Firearms Instructor, a Field Training Officer, and a Radar Instructor; and 

WHEREAS, Jessica was promoted to the position of Sergeant in 2003 during which time she supervised a generation of officers during her tenure as a Patrol Supervisor, Crisis Intervention Team Supervisor, Property Control Supervisor; Evidence Technician Supervisor, Elderly Services Supervisor, and Sexual Assault Response Team Coordinator; and 

WHEREAS, Jessica most recently was instrumental in assisting in the development of the facility dog and part time social worker programs; and she also helped facilitate the creation of the Bartlett Community Care Collective program with other community partners; and 

WHEREAS, the Village is proud of Jessica's many accolades and awards during her career which include 3 Life Saving Awards, a Certificate of Commendation, 5 Unit Citations, 7 Employee of the Month awards, 1 Cook County Merit Award, 1 Leadership Award, 1 Fire Department Outstanding Achievement Award; and a Police Officer of Year Award in 2013, 

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Kevin Wallace, President of the Village of Bartlett, Cook, DuPage and Kane Counties, offer our sincere gratitude to Sergeant Jessica Crowley for her 27 years of service to the Bartlett community. Her service and dedication to the police department and the Village of Bartlett have positively impacted many lives throughout her career and we wish her a retirement filled with good health and much happiness. 

Dated this 2nd day of November 2021 
Kevin Wallace, Village President

A PROCLAMATION TO RECOGNIZE THIS YEAR'S CELEBRATION OF DIWALI -THE FESTIVAL OF LIGHTS

WHEREAS, more than one billion celebrants worldwide, including Hindus, Sikhs, Jains and Buddhists, reverently observe the annual festival of Diwali, the "Festival of Lights" symbolizing the victory of dharma and good over evil; and 

WHEREAS, this year, Diwali falls on Thursday, November 4, in accordance with the lunar calendar and brings together families, friends and communities around the world and here in Bartlett, in goodwill, peace and a shared sense of renewal; and 

WHEREAS, the shared Indian holiday of Diwali is a time for dana (charitable giving) and seva (selfless service) and it signifies a special time of peace and serenity with the hope of building bridges of understanding and tearing down barriers of intolerance; and 

WHEREAS, we are filled with appreciation for the strong bridge of friendship that our Indian community has built in our village, with your generous spirit you have enriched Bartlett, sharing your culture, good food, joyous music and colorful traditions; and 

WHEREAS, Diwali is a festival of lights during which celebrants light small oil lamps, placing them around the home, and pray for knowledge, peace and universal well-being, so we too, in unity, are lighting up village hall, our municipal home;

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Kevin Wallace, President of the Village of Bartlett, Cook, DuPage and Kane Counties, do hereby recognize the religious, historical and cultural significance of Diwali, and I ask all of Bartlett to join me in wishing everyone who celebrates the Festival of Diwali an auspicious year ahead, filled with an extraordinary abundance of light and love.

Dated this 2nd day of November 2021
Kevin Wallace, Village President

PROCLAMATION FOR WORLD POLIO DAY 2021

WHEREAS, the Rotary Club of Bartlett is a member of Rotary International, the world's first, and still one of its largest, non-profit service organizations, founded in Chicago, Illinois, in 1905; and 

WHEREAS, the Rotary motto "Service Above Self" inspires members to provide humanitarian service, encourage high ethical standards, and promote good will and peace in the world; and 

WHEREAS, Rotary in 1985 launched PolioPlus and spearheaded the Global Polio Eradication Initiative, which today includes the World Health Organization, U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, UNICEF and the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, to immunize all the children of the world against polio; and 

WHEREAS, polio cases have dropped by over 99.9 percent since 1988, and the world now stands on the threshold of eradicating this dreaded disease and thereby eliminating the threat of polio-caused paralysis to every child in the world; and 

WHEREAS, members of the Rotary Club of Bartlett continue to contribute their time and their resources to support PolioPlus and the Global Polio Eradication Initiative; and 

WHEREAS, their efforts are providing much needed operational support, medical personnel, laboratory equipment and educational materials for health workers and parents; 

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Kevin Wallace, President of the Village of Bartlett, do hereby proclaim October 19, 2021, as World Polio Day in Bartlett, and do hereby encourage all residents to join the Rotarians of our local club in the fight for a polio-free world. 

Dated this 19th day of October 2021. 
Kevin Wallace, Village President

A Proclamation Recognizing Parking Enforcement Officer & School Crossing Guard Shirley Evans upon her Retirement from the Village of Bartlett 

WHEREAS, Shirley Evans served as a School Crossing Guard for the Bartlett Police Department since August 18, 1995; and 

WHEREAS, she served as a friendly, reliable crossing guard who provided parents peace of mind while their students walked or rode their bicycles to and from school; and 

WHEREAS, Shirley served as the Parking Enforcement Officer for the Bartlett Police Department since December 4, 2000; and 

WHEREAS, Metra commuters were always greeted by her warm and welcoming smile while she patrolled and performed her duties at the train depot; and

WHEREAS, Shirley has been an invaluable, dedicated employee of the Village of Bartlett for over 25 years, and her unwavering commitment has not gone unnoticed by the community, her coworkers and village personnel. Her friendly, patient, upstanding character truly exemplifies her willingness to serve our community with pride, and we will miss her dearly; and 

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Kevin Wallace, President of the Village of Bartlett, Cook, DuPage and Kane Counties, offer our sincere gratitude to Parking Enforcement Officer & School Crossing Guard Shirley Evans for her many years of service to the Bartlett community. We wish her a retirement filled with good health and much happiness. 

Dated this 19th Day of October 2021 
Kevin Wallace, Village President

A Proclamation Recognizing Police Officer Gary Mitchell upon his Retirement from the Village of Bartlett 

WHEREAS, Officer Gary Mitchell was sworn in as a Bartlett Police Officer on September 14, 2001; and 

WHEREAS, for 20 years of dedicated service, Gary served in many roles at the police department including Patrol Officer, Directed Patrol Team Officer, Detective, Officer In-charge, Field Training Officer; and 

WHEREAS, for 11 years of his career Gary served as a Major Crime Assistance Team Investigator, during which time he played a critical role in the investigations of and positive resolutions of many high-profile crimes within Bartlett and throughout the surrounding area communities; and 

WHEREAS, Gary participated in many supporting capacities within the department throughout his career as an Honor Guard member, Crisis Intervention Team Member, Round Table Team Member, Recruitment Team Member, Emergency Management Team Member, and Bicycle Patrol Team Member; and 

WHEREAS, the Village is forever proud of Gary's many accolades and awards during his career which include: 2005 Police Officer of the Year, Cook County Sheriff's Merit Award, 2 Life Saving Awards, multiple Shift Citations, Certificate of Commendation, and 8 Employee of the Month Awards; 

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Kevin Wallace, President of the Village of Bartlett, Cook, DuPage and Kane Counties, offer our sincere gratitude to Officer Gary Mitchell for his 20 years of service to the Bartlett community. His extraordinary service and dedication to the police department, and the Village of Bartlett has positively impacted many lives throughout his career and we wish you a retirement filled with good health and much happiness. 

Dated this 19th Day of October 2021 
Kevin Wallace, Village President

A PROCLAMATION CELEBRATING THE 150th ANNIVERSARY OF IMMANUEL EVANGELICAL LUTHERAN CHURCH 

WHEREAS, on September 19th, Immanuel Evangelical Lutheran Church held a service and open house to celebrate its 150th anniversary; and 

WHEREAS, originally organized as a Lutheran Society, the Immanuel congregation held its first worship service on January 1, 1871 in a church building in Bloomingdale Township, that just five years later was placed on logs and moved to Ontarioville; and 

WHEREAS, Immanuel joined the Lutheran Church-Missouri Synod in 1899; and 

WHEREAS, on Christmas Eve 1959, because Immanuel's membership had outgrown the old church building, the congregation began holding worship services at Set Screw & Mfg. Co. in Bartlett, a temporary arrangement made possible by company president and church member Calvin Brown; and 

WHEREAS, July 5, 1964 marked the beginning of a new era for the Immanuel Evangelical Lutheran Church congregation, when church members dedicated their new church building on Devon Avenue in Bartlett on a five-acre site donated by Mr. and Mrs. William Leiseberg; and 

WHEREAS, Immanuel Church has steadfastly served Bartlett families during 150 years that have included the challenges of two pandemics, two world wars, the Great Depression, the threat of nuclear destruction in the Cold War as well as conflicts in Korea, Viet Nam and the Middle East; 

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Kevin Wallace, President of the Village of Bartlett, Cook, DuPage and Kane Counties, do hereby proclaim a very, very happy milestone birthday to Immanuel Evangelical Lutheran Church. May the church that once held its worship services unblinkingly in a Bartlett factory and its community of fellowship and faith forever be a part of our village. 

Dated this 5th Day of October 2021 
Kevin Wallace, Village President

A Proclamation Designating October 2021 as Arts DuPage Month in the Village of Bartlett 

WHEREAS, the arts embody much of the accumulated wisdom, intellect and imagination of humankind; and 

WHEREAS, the arts, furthermore, enrich us as individuals, fostering discipline, creativity, imagination, self-expression and problem-solving skills while also helping to develop a heightened appreciation of beauty and cross-cultural understanding; and 

WHEREAS, the arts sector in DuPage County consists of 2,272 arts related businesses and accounts for 4.2 percent of the total number of businesses in the region, a larger share of the economy than transportation, tourism, agriculture and construction; and 

WHEREAS, in addition to providing full-time employment for more than 15,000 workers in DuPage County, the arts drive tourism and commerce, enrich our civic life and exert a profound positive influence on the education of our children; and 

WHEREAS, even during the challenging times of the coronavirus pandemic, which had a devastating impact on DuPage County's creative sector, the arts helped collectively lead us through the darkest days -providing entertainment and lifting our spirits, and no doubt will play a vital role in rebuilding our communities, helping to jumpstart the economy and lead us back to normalcy; 

WHEREAS, the Village of Bartlett has a proud record of supporting and promoting Arts in Bartlett, our local arts organization, which since its start in the homes of volunteers 19 years ago has been the cultural arts anchor in the village, mounting art fairs and festivals; providing gallery exhibits and bringing public art to our downtown; spearheading choral, music and theater programs; supplementing art education in Bartlett elementary schools; and opening the new Bartlett Center for the Arts on Main Street with its larger gallery space, artist and musician studios, lesson space and a spot for networking events; and 

WHEREAS, Arts DuPage is a countywide arts council operating under the umbrella of the DuPage Foundation to draw attention to the arts and the vital role they play in our lives and in our communities; 

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Kevin Wallace, President of the Village of Bartlett, Cook, DuPage and Kane Counties, do hereby proclaim October 2021 as Arts DuPage Month in the Village of Bartlett and I call upon all citizens to celebrate the artistic offerings available in our village and to continue to work together with Arts in Bartlett and our many artists to "build community through the arts." 

Dated this 5th day of October 2021 
Kevin Wallace, Village President

COMMUNITY PLANNING MONTH PROCLAMATION

WHEREAS, change is constant and affects all villages, cities, towns, suburbs, counties, boroughs, townships, rural areas, and other places; and 

WHEREAS, community planning and plans can help manage this change in a way that provides better choices for how people work and live; and 

WHEREAS, community planning provides an opportunity for all residents to be meaningfully involved in making choices that determine the future of their community; and 

WHEREAS, the full benefits of planning requires public officials and citizens who understand, support, and demand excellence in planning and plan implementation; and 

WHEREAS, the month of October is designated as National Community Planning Month throughout the United States of America and its territories, and 

WHEREAS, the American Planning Association endorses National Community Planning Month as an opportunity to highlight how planning is essential to recovery and how planners can lead communities to equitable, resilient and long-lasting recovery; and 

WHEREAS, the celebration of National Community Planning Month gives us the opportunity to publicly recognize the participation and dedication of the members of the Plan Commission, Zoning Board of Appeals, and other citizen planners who have contributed their time and expertise to the improvement of the Village of Bartlett; 

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED THAT, the month of October 2021 is hereby designated as Community Planning Month in the Village of Bartlett in conjunction with the celebration of National Community Planning Month. 

Dated the 5th day of October, 2021 
Kevin Wallace, Village President

Proclamation National Rail Safety Week

WHEREAS, 1,889 rail grade crossing collisions resulted in 678 personal injuries and were responsible for 201 fatalities in the United States during 2020; and 

WHEREAS, 1,088 trespassing incidents have occurred in the United States resulting in 532 pedestrians being killed and another 556 injured while trespassing on railroad property right-of-ways during 2020; and 

WHEREAS, educating and informing the public about rail safety, reminding the public that railroad right-of-ways are private property, enhancing public awareness of the dangers associated with highway rail grade crossings, ensuring pedestrians and motorists are looking and listening while near railways, and obeying established traffic laws will reduce the number of fatalities and injuries; and 

WHEREAS, the International Association of Chiefs of Police, National Operation Lifesaver, United States Department of Transportation, and all local, state, county, and railroad law enforcement officers, first responders, and railroad corporations commit to partnering together in an effort to educate at a national level all aspects of railroad safety, to enforce applicable laws in support of National Rail Safety Week; 

THEREFORE, I, Kevin Wallace, Village President, hereby attest my full support proclaiming September 20-26, 2021, National Rail Safety Week and I encourage all citizens to recognize the importance of rail safety education. 

Dated this 21st day of September 2021
Kevin Wallace, Village President

A Proclamation Recognizing Police Sergeant Michael Tavolacci upon his Retirement from the Village of Bartlett 

WHEREAS, Sergeant Michael Tavolacci was sworn in as a Bartlett Police Officer on September 17, 2001; and

WHEREAS, for 20 years of dedicated service, Michael served in many different capacities for the police department including Patrol Officer, Crime Prevention Officer, Detective, Crisis Intervention Team Member, Juvenile Officer, Patrol Sergeant and the Support Services Sergeant; and 

WHEREAS, Michael was appointed as a Crime Prevention Officer from 2005 until 2008 during which time he positively influenced a future generation of our community's youth by teaching them D.A.R.E.; and 

WHEREAS, Michael helped the Village of Bartlett earn first place in its National Night Out celebration back in 2007; and

WHEREAS, Michael developed and trained many of our police officers in firearms instruction, defensive tactics, and physical skills throughout his career as the Range Supervisor and In-House Training Instructor; and 

WHEREAS, the Village is proud of Michael's many accolades and awards during his career which include the following: a Life Saving Award, Certificate of Commendation, Unit Citations, Employee of the Month nominations and awards; and 

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Kevin Wallace, President of the Village of Bartlett, Cook, DuPage and Kane Counties, offer our sincere gratitude to Sergeant Michael Tavolacci for his 20 years of service to the Bartlett community. His service and dedication to the police department and the Village of Bartlett have positively impacted many lives throughout his career and we wish him a retirement filled with good health and much happiness. 

Dated this 21st Day of September 2021
Kevin Wallace, Village President

A PROCLAMATION CELEBRATING THE 130th ANNIVERSARY OF 
IMMANUEL UNITED CHURCH OF CHRIST 

WHEREAS, Immanuel United Church of Christ is Bartlett's oldest continuing congregation, celebrating its 130th anniversary this year; and 

WHEREAS, in the late 1800s, no longer wanting to travel to Ontarioville or Hoosier Grove to worship, families in and around Bartlett met on August 15, 1891 and approved plans for their own church; and 

WHEREAS, soon thereafter, two lots at the corner of North and Western Avenues were purchased for $150 from August Schick; the church was incorporated on September 21; the cornerstone was laid on October 1; and the 32-foot by 50-foot clapboard structure was built for $1,825 and dedicated, debt free, on March 13, 1892; and 

WHEREAS, the church has always made the education of our children a priority, organizing a Sunday School and constructing a parochial school in 1892; confirming its first class of young people, including George Struckman's daughter Ida and future Bartlett police magistrate Henry Hoth, on June 5, 1892; and more recently, serving Bartlett's families with All God's Children Preschool from 1995 until 2016; and 

WHEREAS, by 1916, records show that 91 marriages had taken place at Immanuel thus far, including the union of Bartlett families whose surnames, such Schick, Tatge, Krumfuss, Humbracht and Harmening, show how closely this village church's history is intertwined with Bartlett's own; and 

WHEREAS, as stated on its website, this congregation continues to be a "united and uniting church," sponsoring Boy Scout Troop 26, extending its facilities to other local groups, like AA and celebrating its anniversary five years ago with a special worship service and an outdoor, community welcoming "old fashioned picnic;" 

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Kevin Wallace, President of the Village of Bartlett, Cook, DuPage and Kane Counties, do hereby proclaim a very, very happy milestone birthday to Immanuel United Church of Christ. May the church with the red door and its community of fellowship and faith forever be a part of our village. 

Dated the 7th day of September, 2021. 

A Proclamation Recognizing Bartlett Building Director Brian Goralski
upon his Retirement from the Village of Bartlett 

WHEREAS, Brian Goralski joined the Village of Bartlett as a building inspector in June 1987; and 

WHEREAS, he quickly rose through the ranks, earning his appointment to a newly created position of assistant building commissioner by 1990 and promotion to building commissioner/building director in March 1991; and 

WHEREAS, during his tenure with the village Brian has seen Bartlett's population more than double and our land uses grow dramatically to include not only many additional residential subdivisions but multiple commercial shopping areas and large business parks; and 

WHEREAS, we can fully credit decades of safe and healthy structures in our community to Brian's hard work, thoughtful guidance and diligent oversight of the department's permitting and inspection programs; and 

WHEREAS, he was instrumental in Bartlett's adoption of modern and up-to-date building codes and standards, ensuring not only the safety but the economic value of the homes, buildings and infrastructure that serve our citizens; and 

WHEREAS, it was with Brian's help that Bartlett was able to earn a SolSmart Gold designation for its work to improve solar energy growth and advance clean energy practices in the village; and 

WHEREAS, he is a consummate professional, who served as the president of the Suburban Building Officials Conference in 1997-1998 and has received many complimentary letters over the years from Bartlett residents regarding the exceptional service he provided; and 

WHEREAS, the Village is forever appreciative that Brian made "Building a Safer Bartlett" his full-time job for 34 years; 

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Kevin Wallace, President of the Village of Bartlett, Cook, DuPage and Kane Counties, offer our many, many thanks to Building Director Brian Goralski for his service to our community. We are proud to have had you as an employee in the Village and we wish you a safe and sound retirement free of leaky pipes and loose wires and filled with good health and much happiness. 

Dated this 15th day of June 2021 

A Proclamation Recognizing Police Officer Rich Bosh upon his Retirement from the Village of Bartlett 

WHEREAS, Officer Rich Bosh was sworn in as a Bartlett Police Officer on December 5, 1994; and 

WHEREAS, for over 26 years of dedicated service, Rich served in many capacities for the police department including Patrol Officer, Directed Patrol Team Officer, DuPage County Metropolitan Enforcement Group Officer, Detective, Honor Guard Member, and Crisis Intervention Team Member; and 

WHEREAS, for the past 15 years, Rich dedicated his career to serve in a critical leadership role as Bartlett High School's Resource Officer, where he acted as a mentor and role model for students, developed and nurtured critical relationships between staff and school district officials and provided a safe and secure campus on a daily basis; 

WHEREAS, Rich helped establish the High School Teen Citizen Police Academy and a Student Safety Task Force allowing students to participate in law enforcement education opportunities; and 

WHEREAS, the Village is forever proud of Rich's many accolades and awards during his career which include the following: 2015 Police Officer of the Year, Cook County Sheriff's Merit Award, a Meritorious Service Award, the Illinois MEG Director's Award, several Life Saving Awards, Shift Citations, Certificates of Commendation, and Employee of the Month Awards, and graduating from the Delinquency Control Institute at the University of Southern California; 

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Kevin Wallace, President of the Village of Bartlett, Cook, DuPage and Kane Counties, offer our sincere gratitude to Officer Rich Bosh for his 26 years of service to the Bartlett community. His extraordinary service and dedication to the police department, Bartlett High School and the Village of Bartlett has positively impacted many lives throughout his career and we wish you a retirement filled with good health and much happiness. 

Dated this 1st day of June 2021 

PROCLAMATION - NATIONAL PUBLIC WORKS WEEK MAY 16 - 22, 2021 

WHEREAS, public works professionals focus on infrastructure, facilities and services that are of vital importance to sustainable and resilient communities and to the public health, high quality of life and well-being of the people of the Village of Bartlett; and, 

WHEREAS, these infrastructure, facilities and services could not be provided without the dedicated efforts of public works professionals, who are engineers, managers, and employees at all levels of government and the private sector, who are responsible for rebuilding, improving and protecting our nation's transportation, water supply, water treatment, forestry, public buildings and other structures and facilities essential for our residents; and, 

WHEREAS, the health, safety and comfort of a community greatly depends on these facilities and services; and, 

WHEREAS, the quality and effectiveness of these facilities, as well as their planning, design and construction, is vitally dependent upon the efforts and skill of public works officials; and, 

WHEREAS, it is in the public interest for the residents, civic leaders and children in the Village of Bartlett to gain knowledge of and to maintain a progressive interest and understanding of the importance of public works and public works programs in their respective community; and, 

WHEREAS, the year of 2021 marks the 61 st annual National Public Works Week, sponsored by the American Public Works Association; 

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Kevin Wallace, Village President of the Village of Bartlett, Cook, DuPage and Kane Counties, do hereby proclaim May 16 - 22, 2021 as NATIONAL PUBLIC WORKS WEEK in the Village of Bartlett. I urge all citizens to join with representatives of the American Public Works Association and government agencies in activities, events and ceremonies designed to pay tribute to our public works professionals, engineers, managers and employees and to recognize the substantial contributions they make to protecting our national health, safety, and quality of life. 

Dated this 18th day of May, 2021
Kevin Wallace, Village President

PROCLAMATION TO OBSERVE MOTORCYCLE AWARENESS MONTH IN THE VILLAGE OF BARTLETT 

WHEREAS, motorcycles are a common and economical means of transportation that reduce fuel consumption and road wear and contribute in a significant way to the relief of traffic and parking congestion; and 

WHEREAS, Illinois is proud to be a national leader in motorcycle safety, education and awareness; and 

WHEREAS, safety on our highways and streets is also one of the highest priorities for the Village of Bartlett; and 

WHEREAS, the members of A.B.A.T.E. of Illinois, Inc., (A Brotherhood Aimed Toward Education) continually promotes motorcycle safety in both high school drivers' education programs and to the general public and has presented motorcycle awareness programs to more than 102,000 participants in Illinois in recent years; and 

WHEREAS, all motorcyclists should join with A.B.A.T.E. of Illinois, Inc. in actively promoting the safe operation of motorcycles to the citizens of Bartlett; and 

WHEREAS, during the month of May, all roadway users should unite in the safe sharing of streets and roads in the village and throughout the state; 

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Kevin Wallace, President of the Village of Bartlett, Cook, DuPage, and Kane Counties, Illinois, in recognition of the continued hard work of A.B.A.T.E. of Illinois, Inc. and the other 638,000 registered motorcyclists statewide, do hereby proclaim the month of May 2021 as MOTORCYCLE AWARENESS MONTH in the Village of Bartlett and urge all motorists to consciously promote and improve safety and awareness on our roadways. 

Dated this 18th day of May, 2021 
Kevin Wallace, Village President

A PROCLAMATION RECOGNIZING THE VOLUNTEERS AND PARTNERING AGENCIES FOR THEIR WORK ON THE VILLAGE VACCINATION EVENT 

WHEREAS, The Village of Bartlett partnered with the Bartlett Park District, Bartlett Fire Protection District, Bartlett Library District, Jain Society of Metropolitan Chicago, Jewel-Osco, and over 80 volunteers to provide a vaccination event on April 13 and May 4 to vaccinate 3, 148 residents of Bartlett and surrounding communities; and 

WHEREAS, With the assistance of Hanover Township, DuPage County Health Department, Rana Meal Solutions, Greco & Sons and Cheese Merchants of America the village was able to reach local seniors and essential food production employees in need of vaccinations; and 

WHEREAS, The village received numerous compliments about the organization of the event. From the moment a person stepped out of their vehicle, they were introduced to a member of the golf cart team. If a ride was provided, a friendly conversation was had. If a person needed a wheelchair, they were handled with genuine concern and care; and 

WHEREAS, Jewel, Jersey Mikes, Trackside Diner, Dunkin Donuts and Girl Scout Troop 76 participated in providing meals and refreshments to the volunteers and staff during the events; and, 

WHEREAS, The greeters engaged everyone who entered and many interactions led to friendly conversations. One could see people smiling through their masks before they even entered the gymnasium. The check in team interacted with families and it was common for them to take a moment to put them at ease before moving onto the next line; and 

WHEREAS, Our volunteers in the vaccination lines were kept busy keeping the lines moving, but would be seen take the time to provide encouragement when needed. After receiving the vaccine, their wait time was filled with entertainment from volunteers as they danced to the music, shared laughs, and passed out stickers. At one point, all of the people waiting were clapping with the music and at our dancing volunteers; and 

WHEREAS, From start to finish, we worked as a large team to provide a positive experience for our community. We cannot thank you all enough for your hard work, compassion, and kindness you showed throughout the event; and, 

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Kevin Wallace, President of the Village of Bartlett, Cook, DuPage and Kane Counties, extend our deep appreciation to our volunteers and partnering agencies, for truly representing community spirit, teamwork, and "The Bartlett Way". We are so appreciative of all of you. 

Dated this 181h day of May, 2021 
Kevin Wallace, Village President

VILLAGE OF BARTLETT PROCLAMATION RECOGNIZING MAY 2021 AS BIKE MONTH

WHEREAS, for more than a century, the bicycle has been an important part of the lives of most Americans; and

WHEREAS, today, millions of Americans engage in bicycling because it is a viable and environmentally  sound form of transportation, an excellent form of fitness and provides quality family recreation; and

WHEREAS, the Village of Bartlett's Bike and Run Advisory Committee promotes safe bike and pedestrian activities on the Village's bike path system; and

WHEREAS, Ride Illinois is educating cyclists and motorists as to the proper and safe operation of bicycles at www.bikesafetyquiz.com ; and

WHEREAS, The Village of Bartlett, the Bartlett Park District and the DuPage County Forest Preserve and independent cyclists throughout our Village are promoting greater public awareness of bicycle operations and safety education in an effort to reduce accidents, injuries and fatalities for all.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Kevin Wallace, Village President of the Village of Bartlett, Cook, DuPage and Kane Counties, Illinois, do hereby proudly proclaim the month of May, 2021 as Bike Month in Bartlett.

Dated this 4th day of May, 2021
Kevin Wallace, Village President



1

A Proclamation Recognizing Police Sergeant Michael Rummell upon his Retirement from the Village of Bartlett

WHEREAS, Michael Rummell started his employment with the Village of Bartlett as a Police Officer in 1997,  was subsequently promoted to Police Sergeant in 2009, and has served the village and its community for more than 24 years in those positions; and

WHEREAS, during those more than 24 years of service, Michael has served in capacities such as Evidence Technician, Juvenile Officer, Range Supervisor, Training Manager, NIPAS Emergency Services Team Member, Patrol Sergeant, Directed Patrol Team Sergeant; and

WHEREAS, Michael was appointed as Eastview Middle School's Resource Officer from 2000 to 2004 during which time he was able to positively influence a future generation of our community's youth while helping to provide a safe and secure learning environment for them to thrive in; and

WHEREAS, Michael has been instrumental in training and mentoring many police officers over the years as a Police Academy Class Supervisor, Field Training Officer and Field Training Program Coordinator; and

WHEREAS, in his role throughout the years as an In-house Instructor, Michael has been responsible for  training dozens of Bartlett police officers in the disciplines of physical skills, defensive tactics, use of force, firearms instruction; and

WHEREAS, Michael was responsible for overseeing the department's traffic safety grant program, which helped increase overall traffic safety throughout the village by providing additional traffic enforcement for serious traffic offenses like driving under the influence, distractive driving, speeding and occupant restraint violations; and

WHEREAS, the Village is grateful for his contributions to the policing profession and his fellow officers; and

WHEREAS, the Village is forever proud that Michael has received numerous Employee of the Month awards, Unit Citation Awards, and a Life Saving Award;

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Kevin Wallace, President of the Village of Bartlett, Cook, DuPage and Kane Counties, offer our many, many thanks to Bartlett Police Department Sergeant Michael Rummell for his many years of service to our community. We are proud to have had you as an employee in the Village of Bartlett and we wish you a retirement full of good health and much happiness.

Dated this 4t h  Day of May 2021
Kevin Wallace, Village President

A Proclamation Recognizing Police Officer Jean "Gina" Walsh upon her Retirement from the Village of 
Bartlett

WHEREAS, Officer Gina Walsh joined the Bartlett Police Department as a community service officer in 
1990 and became a sworn officer in 2001 when there was only one other female officer in the 
department; and

WHEREAS, during her nearly 31 years with the department, Walsh, who is half Korean, has gladly 
witnessed an increased number of minorities joining law enforcement and is proud to be retiring 
from a department where women make up 22% of Bartlett's police force today; and

WHEREAS, with officer Walsh's retirement, the Bartlett Police Department is not only losing its 
longest serving member out of 80 sworn and civilian employees but also someone who has consistently 
brought pride and distinction to the entire village; and

WHEREAS, during her years of service, Gina has served in capacities such as Court Liaison, Property 
Control Custodian, Evidence Technician, Bike Patrol Officer, Juvenile Officer, Elderly Services 
Officer, and Honor Guard member; and

WHEREAS, in her role throughout the years as a Crossing Guard Trainer, Gina has been both directly 
and indirectly responsible for the safety and welfare of our community's youth by training dozens 
of Crossing Guards who have gone on to safely and successfully assist children in their daily 
journeys to-and-from school during the scholastic year; and

WHEREAS, during part of her tenure, Walsh was the school resource officer at Eastview Middle School 
where she helped establish a Service-Over-Self program that taught students the value of 
volunteering and working together to make a difference in people's lives and she also taught 
Project Alert at the middle school, which is designed to educate 7th and 8th graders how to make 
good decisions regarding bullying, alcohol and drugs; and

WHEREAS, Gina's steadfast  commitment to these programs,  her passion for serving as  a mentor and 
role model for students and her unwavering belief in the importance of building positive police 
interactions with the community earned her DuPage County's 2017 Juvenile Officer of the Year Award 
and the Bartlett Police Department's Spirit Award the same year;

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Kevin Wallace, President of the Village of Bartlett, Cook, DuPage and Kane 
Counties, offer our many, many thanks to Bartlett Police Department's Gina Walsh for her three plus 
decades of service. We are proud to have had you as a police officer in the Village of Bartlett and 
we wish you a retirement filled with good health and much happiness.

Dated this 20th Day of April 2021

ARBOR  DAY PROCLAMATION

WHEREAS, in 1872, J. Sterling Morton proposed to the Nebraska Board of Agriculture that a special 
day be set aside for the planting of trees, and

WHEREAS, this holiday, called Arbor Day, was first observed with the planting of more than a 
million trees in Nebraska, and

WHEREAS, Arbor Day is now observed throughout the nation and the world, and

WHEREAS, trees can reduce the erosion of our precious topsoil by wind and water, cut heating and 
cooling costs, moderate the temperature, clean the air, produce life-giving oxygen, and provide 
habitat for wildlife, and

WHEREAS, trees are a renewable resource giving us paper, wood for our homes, fuel for our fires, 
and countless other wood products, and

WHEREAS, trees in our village increase property values, enhance the economic vitality of business 
areas, and beautify our community, and

WHEREAS, trees, wherever they are planted, are a source of joy and spiritual renewal.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Kevin Wallace, President of the Village of Bartlett, Cook, DuPage, and Kane 
Counties, Illinois, do hereby proclaim April 30, 2021 as Arbor Day in the Village of Bartlett, and 
urge all citizens to celebrate Arbor Day and to support efforts to protect our trees and woodlands, 
and
FURTHER, I urge all citizens to plant trees to gladden the heart and promote the well-being of this 
and future generations.

Dated this 20th day of April 2021





Kevin Wallace, Village President

BUILDING SAFETY MONTH PROCLAMATION
Building  Safety  Month  -  May 2021

Whereas, The Village of Bartlett is committed to recognizing that our growth and strength depends 
on the safety and economic value of the homes, buildings and infrastructure that serve our 
citizens, both in everyday life and in times of natural disaster, and;

Whereas, our confidence in the resilience of these buildings that make up our community is achieved 
through the devotion of the building safety and fire prevention officials, architects 
engineers, builders, tradespeople, design professionals, laborers, plumbers and others in the 
construction industry­ who work year round to ensure the safe construction of buildings, and;

Whereas, our nation benefits economically and technologically from using the International Codes  
that are developed by a national, voluntary consensus codes and standards developing organization, 
our government is able to avoid the high cost of complexity of developing and maintaining these 
codes, which are the most widely adopted building safety and fire prevention codes in the world:

Whereas, these modern building codes include safeguards to protect the public from hazards such as 
hurricanes, snowstorms, tornadoes, wildland fires, floods and earthquakes, and;

Whereas, Building Safety Month is sponsored by the International Code Council to remind the public 
about the critical role of our communities' largely unknown protectors of public safety - our local 
code officials - who assure us of safe, sustainable, energy efficient and livable buildings that are 
essential to America's  prosperity, and;

Whereas, "Prevent, Prepare, Protect. Building Codes Save," the theme for Building Safety Month 
2021, encourages all Americans to raise awareness about the importance of safe and resilient 
construction; fire prevention; disaster mitigation, energy conservation; water safety; training the 
next generation; and new technologies in the construction industry.

Whereas, each year, in observance of Building Safety Month, people all over the world are asked to 
consider the commitment to improve building safety, resilience and economic investment at home and 
in the community, and to acknowledge the essential service provided to all of us by local and state 
building departments, fire prevention bureaus and federal agencies in protecting lives and 
property.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Kevin Wallace, President of the Village of Bartlett, Cook, DuPage and Kane 
Counties, do hereby proclaim the month of May 2021 as BUILDING SAFETY MONTH in the Village of 
Bartlett.

Dated this 20th day of April, 2021





Kevin Wallace, Village President