With last week's blizzard having left us with a near record-breaking accumulation of snow, I would like to commend residents for their efforts and cooperation in assisting village employees as they worked endlessly to rid our streets of snow.

I would like to acknowledge employees of the public works, recreation, fire and police departments for working around the clock since Saturday evening to ensure the safety and comfort of our residents and businesses. In complimenting each of these employees for the fine job that they did, I also want to acknowledge members of the Volunteer Fire Department who remained on standby duty at fire headquarters well into Sunday evening. We thank each of the fine people for the sacrifice that they have made in leaving their families in their time of need to attend to the welfare of our residents.

A reminder to residents that if you are unable to shovel snow or are going to be away, make arrangements to have the snow cleared from your sidewalk.

Please clear snow away from all hydrants so that the fire department can reach them without delay.

If you have a school bus stop on your corner, please be kind enough to clear the snow and ice.

I have recently received inquiries from several residents asking how they can donate a bench, tree, shrub, etc. to the incorporated village as a lasting memorial to a friend or family member. Prior to answering this question, I want to thank the many residents who have made contributions toward the purchase and installation of trees, benches, etc. They have been located throughout the village and have been enjoyed by residents and visitors to our beautiful community.

Those interested in making a donation of a bench or tree may do so by contacting the village administrator's office at village hall (465-4051). The current price of a bench is $675 and depending on the species of the tree the cost is $275.

Thank you for your generosity and for adding attractive accessories to our community.

On behalf of the board of trustees I wanted to take this opportunity to thank all residents, past and current, who volunteer on the village's boards and commissions as well as members of our Special Police and Volunteer Fire Department. While there is great personal satisfaction to all who serve it comes with major sacrifices by their families as well as the volunteers who spend time away from their families - missing birthdays, concerts, etc. It is with this in mind that we extend a special word of gratitude to their spouses and families who share in this wonderful community spirit. Unfortunately we often take for granted the tremendous time, talent and effort extended by all of those residents who participate as officers and directors in our four property owners associations. It is the result of their efforts that perpetuate our unique community agreement form of government.