5th Annual Job Fair - Hanover Township

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May 3, 2016 - 5th Annual Job Fair. Over 55 Companies! .... Please do not hesitate to contact me or any of your Township
Happenings

2016

WINTER/SPRING

Hanover Township

5th Annual Job Fair Over 55 Companies!

Sprint 2 Spring 5K Run/ Walk!

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Senior Transportation

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Hanover

Happenings

contents

For comments, questions or submissions to Hanover Happenings, please contact:

[email protected]

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TOWN HALL

Mental Health Board Supports Local Agencies

WILLIAM TIKNIS CAMPUS

250 South IL Route 59 • Bartlett, IL 60103 630-837-0301 SENIOR CENTER WILLIAM TIKNIS CAMPUS

240 South IL Route 59 • Bartlett, IL 60103 630-483-5600 ASTOR AVENUE COMMUNITY CENTER 7431 Astor Avenue • Hanover Park, IL 60133 630-540-9085 MENTAL HEALTH COMMUNITY RESOURCE CENTER 1535 Burgundy Parkway • Streamwood, IL 60107 630-837-6445 IZAAK WALTON CENTER & RESERVE 899 Jay Street • Elgin, IL 60120 847-888-8329 EMERGENCY SERVICES STATION #1 218 Main Street • Bartlett, IL 60103

Our mission

is to continuously improve the quality of life of Hanover Township residents by providing a unique array of quality, cost effective, community-based services acting as a dynamic organization that delivers services in a responsible and respectful manner.

p2 Hanover Township 5th Annual Job Fair p4 A Message from our Supervisor p5 Township Clerk’s Note & Calendar Assessor’s Note p6 Township Highway Commissioner’s Note

p7 Passport Services

Township Trustees’ Corner

p8 3rd Annual Sprint 2 Spring 5K Run/Walk p9-14 Department News p15 Emergency Services VISIT US ONLINE: www.hanover-township.org

www.hanover-township.org

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A message from our Supervisor Dear Neighbor, I hope you enjoyed a wonderful holiday season and the milder weather that came with it this year. Once again I witnessed the incredible generosity of you, the residents of Hanover Township. Thanks to your donations the Township was able to make the holidays a little brighter for many of our residents that have fallen on tough times. Hanover Township distributed 609 meal boxes at the Thanksgiving distribution, and another 575 meal boxes at Christmas. These meal boxes were paid for and distributed through the generous donations of funds and hard work from several community organizations and countless residents. Through the toy drive and sponsor-a-family programs, 2,103 Township youth received gifts this holiday season. While the Township staff coordinated and screened recipients, the generosity of the community made this all possible. To those who supported these efforts through donations of money, time and effort thank you for making our community a great place to live. Just before the holiday season Hanover Township was recognized at the Township Officials of Illinois annual education conference with several major awards. The Hanover Township Youth and Family Services Department was recognized as Organization of the Year by the Association of Illinois Township Committees on Youth. The Township was also presented with the Township of the Year award from the Illinois Township Association of Senior Citizens Services Committees (ITASCSC). Clerk Katy Dolan Baumer received the very prestigious William Z. Ahrends Award naming her Clerk of the Year and Trustee Steve Caramelli was presented with the Elected Official of the Year Award from ITASCSC. As I have written before, Hanover Township is fortunate to benefit from a dedicated group of volunteers whom are part of our Auxiliary Staff. The members of the Auxiliary Staff provide countless hours of service by staffing our food pantry, working Township information tables at community events, and performing several other valuable services for Township residents. Each year we say thank you for their service at a dinner and recognize those that have gone above and beyond. This year our Auxiliary Staff Members of the Year were Shirley Schrade and Norma Smith. Both of these women have been long-time members of the Auxiliary Staff and it is an honor that has been overdue for both of them. Congratulations to them and we are lucky to have them volunteering their time at Hanover Township. During this time each year nominations are open for the annual Supervisor’s Community Service Awards. There are countless volunteers, local businesses, and community organizations that provide outstanding work in our communities and this is a great opportunity for them to be honored for all that they do. I encourage you to nominate a person, business, or organization that you think makes Hanover Township great. To view a list of categories, or for a copy of the nomination form, please visit our website at www.hanover-township.org or go to the Town Hall at 250 S. IL Route 59 in Bartlett. All nominations must be received by February 12. Winners will be recognized at an event in April. I appreciate the honor you have given me by allowing me to serve as your Township Supervisor and know I speak for all the Hanover Township officials, staff and volunteers when I say we hope you and your family have a happy, prosperous and safe New Year. Please do not hesitate to contact me or any of your Township officials if we can be of service.

Brian P. McGuire Supervisor Hanover Township Supervisor Brian P. McGuire with auxiliary staff award recipients Norma Smith and Shirley Schrade.

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Hanover Happenings

CLERK'S COMMUNITY

CALENDAR 2016-2016

FEBRUARY 2 – Hanover Township Board Meeting, 7 PM, Township Senior Center 6 – Craft & Vendor Show, 10AM to 3PM, Bartlett Hills Golf Club 11 – Life Line Screenings, 8:30 AM to 5 PM, Township Senior Center 13 – Winterfest, 12PM to 4PM, Bartlett Nature Center 16 – Hanover Township Board Meeting, 7 PM, Township Senior Center

A note from your Township Clerk Katy Dolan Baumer, Hanover Township Clerk The Presidential Primary is March 15. Today, there is no excuse for not voting, with the many ways that are offered. There is the option to vote by mail, where you request a Mail Ballot1 and receive it in the mail. In order to have your vote count, you have to make sure it is postmarked no later than the day before the election. Voting by mail is intended for those in nursing homes, senior living complexes, hospitals, overseas and the military; but, anyone can vote by mail, if they so choose.

MARCH 1 – Hanover Township Board Meeting, 7 PM, Township Senior Center 4 – Relay For Life Kickoff Event, 6:30 PM, Bartlett Fire Barn 5 – Breakfast with the Board, 8:30 AM, Township Senior Center 17/18 – Hanover Township Senior Center Spring Bake Sale, Early Voting is also an option; the time period for Early Voting is 9 AM – 3 PM, Township Senior Center from February 29 until March 4. The closest location for Early 19 – Streamwood Park District Annual Easter Egg Hunt, Voting in Hanover Township is the Streamwood Village Hall. 11 AM, Hoosier Grove Park 21 – Cook County Smart Grid Presentation, 10AM, Forgot to Register to Vote? Don’t worry – we can now register you Township Senior Center at your precinct on Election Day and you can vote immediately. You 22 – Hanover Township Board Meeting, 7 PM, can check your registration status online at the Cook County Township Senior Center . website 24 – Cook County Smart Grid Presentation, 7PM, 2 Township Senior Center Hanover Township will once again host the Cook County elections 26 – Streamwood Park District Brunch with the team Receiving Station for this area during the Primary. If you need Easter Bunny, 10 AM, Hoosier Grove Barn assistance or if you have a group that you would like to help get registered 30 – Hanover Township Job Fair, 10:30AM – 3PM, to vote, please contact me at [email protected]. Township Senior Center

This past November, I was elected to serve the Township Officials of Illinois APRIL Clerks Division as its president for 2016-17. I hope to share all that is 5 – Hanover Township Board Meeting, 7 PM, fantastic about Hanover Township with the clerks from across the state. Township Senior Center November was a big month: not only was I elected to serve by my peers, but 12 – Annual Town Meeting, 7 PM, they also selected me as the 2016 William Z. Ahrends Award winner. This award Township Senior Center is presented to one clerk each year, usually nominated by his or her town board; 13 – Streamwood Community Blood Drive, this year, the clerks of Illinois broke from tradition and nominated me for the 1PM – 7PM, Streamwood Village Hall award. I am honored and pleased to serve. 16 – Senior Services Spring Breakfast, 10 AM, Izaak Walton Center If I can serve you in any way, please do not hesitate to send me an email or call at 19 – Hanover Township Board Meeting, (630) 837-0301. 7 PM, Township Senior Center 29 – Hanover Park Arbor Tree Planting, 1-http://www.cookcountyclerk.com/elections/mailvoting/Pages/default.aspx 10AM, Hanover Park Village Hall 2-http://www.cookcountyclerk.com/elections/voterprofile/Pages/default.aspx 30 – Streamwood Community Relations Commission Art Around the World Event, 12PM, Poplar Creek Library

Visit us online at www.hanover-township.org for more event information.

CONTACT INFO

Phone: 630-837-0301 Fax: 630-837-9064 Email: [email protected]

www.hanover-township.org

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A note from your Township Assessor

Thomas S. Smogolski, Hanover Township Assessor By now everyone should have received their 2015 1st installment tax bill. The amount of your 1st installment tax bill is 55% of the total you paid in 2014. These bills are due by Tuesday, March 1, 2016. The second installment will include all exemptions and any reductions due to an appeal.

ALL SENIOR EXEMPTIONS MUST BE RENEWED ANNUALLY. Renewing seniors should have received their exemption renewal forms in the mail. Seniors who turned 65 anytime in 2015 should come into the Hanover Township Assessor’s office after they receive their 1st installment tax bill for 2015 to file for the senior exemption. Seniors who plan on filing for the freeze exemption need to bring in their income information (for all residents residing in the home) for 2014, with a total gross household income that does not exceed $55,000. Please remember that both Senior and Senior Freeze exemptions must be renewed annually. If you have previously received the Homeowner Exemption, you will be automatically renewed unless you have changed anything with your deed or have sold the home. Remember, you are only entitled to exemptions on the home which is your primary residence. Rental properties may not receive exemptions.

ALL DISABLED PERSON EXEMPTIONS MUST BE RENEWED

CONTACT INFO

Phone: 630-837-0301

Assessor Thomas S. Smogolski with staff, on left, Peggy Deyne, Cindy Christopher and Patty Glascott ANNUALLY. If you are receiving Social Security Disability benefits, you may qualify for this exemption. Call our office to inquire about the requirements. ALL DISABLED VETERAN EXEMPTIONS MUST BE RENEWED ANNUALLY. There have been changes in the Disabled Veteran exemption for tax year 2015. A Disabled Veteran can now qualify for the exemption with a 30% service-connected disability. Beginning in tax year 2015, a $2,500 Disabled Veteran exemption is available to a Veteran with a service-connected disability of at least 30% but less than 50%; a $5,000 Disabled Veteran exemption is available to a Veteran with a service-connected disability of at least 50% but less than 70%; Veterans with a service-connected disability of at least 70% are exempt from paying property taxes on their primary residence. This exemption is available to the unmarried surviving spouse of a service-connected disabled Veteran provided that the Veteran was in receipt of the exemption prior to his/her death. Additionally, beginning in tax year 2015 and thereafter, the unmarried surviving spouse of a service member killed in the line of duty is exempt from paying property taxes on their primary residence.

Fax: 630-837-1059

A note from your

HOURS

wear their seat belts more often and are less likely to speed compared to the other groups of adults and teens. In an ongoing AAA Foundation study, nearly 100% of the respondents disapproved of texting or e-mailing while driving, but 52% of drivers ages 65 to 69 reported talking on their cellphones in the last month while behind the wheel.

Highway Commissioner

As we all know, it can be very tempting to reach for a ringing cellphone while driving, so here are some tips on how all of us in Hanover Township can avoid distracted driving:

P. Craig Ochoa, Hanover Township Highway Commissioner Well, we’re right in the middle of “Good Ole Winter” with all its snow, ice, wind, frigid temperatures and bad road conditions. So our attention to details has to be at our highest levels possible. But now you add all those wireless devices to distract us from doing what we should be doing best...driving safely. These wireless distractions are very dangerous, and often times deadly. For ADULTS, some 66% of drivers think talking on their cell phone hands-free is acceptable while driving (according to a 2014 AAA Foundation report). Not only is it distracting to use hands-free devices, but drivers remain distracted for as long 24 seconds after finishing a task using a voice-command system. Older drivers, our SENIORS, are some of the safest on the road. They

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Hanover Happenings

Monday - Friday 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM, Tuesdays 8:30 to 6 PM

-Turn off your cellphone. Silence, or better yet, power down your cellphone before you begin driving. - Put your cellphone where you can’t see or reach it. If you’re tempted to check your phone, try storing it the glove compartment. -Get support from friends and family. Let them know you don’t respond to calls or texts while driving. -Avoid other common distractions such as admiring the scenery, entering directions into your GPS, eating, paying attention to a pet, or using the rearview mirror to groom. We at Hanover Township value your life and safety way too much to not bring some of these above things to your attention. So please be careful while driving for your sake and for the sake of others around you. Have a good winter!

CONTACT INFO HOURS

Phone: 630-837-0960 Fax: 630-891-1413 Monday - Friday 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM

Township

Trustees’ Corner Mary Alice Benoit Trustee

Steve Caramelli Trustee

The New Year has brought some big changes to the Township! We are excited to announce the launch of our new website. Over the course of last year Township staff researched and interviewed several companies that specialize in designing websites and online features for local governments. The Township Board selected Vision Internet to work with our staff in launching a fresh, redesigned and easy-to-navigate Township website for residents of all ages to utilize. The new website features a homepage with a user-friendly layout, links to the Township’s social media, along with buttons to easily access Township news and meeting agendas and minutes. The Township’s calendar of events is prominently featured on the homepage, searchable by department, with information on all programs and events. The new website will also have a feature for users to translate the content into Spanish,

Craig Essick Trustee

Howard K. Krick Trustee

Polish and other languages for residents to access the site. Finally, a great feature of the new website is responsive design. This allows users to view the site in its entirety and easily when using a mobile device or tablet, without having to adjust the view or zoom in on text and images. We encourage you to visit the new website at www.hanover-township.org and go through the pages to learn more about the Township’s programs; look at photos from Township events and view videos from officials and

staff talking about special features or Township services. Have a suggestion for the new website? Email us your comments at [email protected]. Happy New Year from all of us at Hanover Township!

Passport Services Includes adult and minor first time applicants, and adult and minor renewals $5 passport photos taken onsite Expedited services available Credit cards accepted for some fees** *Processing fee of 2.13% will be charged when using a credit or debit card * State Department requires check or money order for passport application fees

For a complete list of fees and required documents, please call 630-837-0301, visit www.hanover-township.org or stop in!

NO APPOINTMENT NECESSARY

Hanover Township Town Hall, 250 S. IL Route 59, Bartlett IL 60103 Hours, M, W, TH, F 8:30AM – 4:30PM, T 8:30AM – 6PM

Saturday, May 7, 2016 at the Hanover Township Izaak Walton Center 899 Jay Street in Elgin Start Time: 8:00AM Registration: 6:30AM to 7:45AM

To register and for all race information please visit: www.sprint2spring.com or call the Office of Community Health at (630) 483-5665.

Online Registration Closing Date:

Packet Pick Up:

Tuesday, May 3, 2016 @ 11:59PM

Thursday, May 5th (8:30AM to 5:30PM) Friday, May 6th (8:30AM to 4:30PM) at the Hanover Township Izaak Walton Center 899 Jay Street, Elgin, IL 60120

5K Registration Fee: $25.00 through March 31st $30.00 April 1st - May 6th (Day of Race $35.00)

Hanover Township is excited to host the 3rd annual Sprint to Spring 5K run/ walk. This event not only promotes heath and wellness, but also raises funding for the Hanover Township Foundation. All proceeds from the race will go to the foundation to assist Township residents experiencing financial hardship in accessing medical and dental services. www.hanover-township.org

Wicking Wear TT-Shirt Shirt

Youth and Family Services John Parquette, Director

Youth and Family Services received the Association of Illinois Township Committees on Youth “2015 Youth Organization Award” for outstanding contributions in serving youth This past November Hanover Township Youth and Family Services was awarded the 2015 Youth Organization Award from AITCOY, the youth division of the Township Officials of Illinois. This state-wide award recognizes a youth organization who has demonstrated outstanding contributions in: • Helping youth in the community • Impacting the quality of life for youth in the community Youth and Family Services received the award for their solid, effective, responsive and professional services offered to Hanover Township youth and their families. All of our programs and services are focused on meeting our mission, which is: the prevention of juvenile delinquency and the promotion of positive development in young people. We strengthen families, provide outreach to youth at risk of school failure and contribute to the building of a healthier township community. Our core programs and services include: • The After School Open Gym Program • Family Therapy Services • Tutoring Services • The Alternative to Suspension Program • Substance Abuse Prevention Programming Some of the highlights that were recognized in the award included the department’s diversity of staff, expanded and efficient reach of services, and professional responsive programming. Additionally, the leadership provided to our municipalities, School District U-46, Loyola University and various task forces focused on youth initiatives. The department staff are honored to receive this recognition and wish to share this with you. Our work in serving you is what matters most – when you or a loved one is in doubt or struggling with a personal, family, parenting, or school concern, we are here for you. Thank you for your continued support.

ALTERNATIVE TO SUSPENSION PROGRAM BY THE NUMBERS: Annual graduation rate of program participants: 100% 93% average satisfaction rate (youth, parents, principals) Annual average of school connectivity level: 76%

OPEN GYM BY THE NUMBERS: 95% satisfaction rate (youth, parents, and principals)

TUTORING SERVICES BY THE NUMBERS: Teachers reported 70% of students had an increase of 50% or more improvement in identified areas of learning

CONTACT INFO HOURS

Phone: 630-837-0960 Fax: 630-891-1413 Monday - Friday 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM

www.hanover-township.org

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Senior Services

THE CENTER ... AFTER HOURS

Tracy Colagrossi, Director

Dial-A-Bus Service

The Dial-A-Bus service provides transportation to Hanover Township residents that are 55 and older, or individuals 18 and older, with a disability. This service provides a means of transportation to any location in Hanover Township. Some examples include medical appointments, shopping, local park districts, the bank, or even the train station. There are three different times that buses drop-off and pick-up at the Hanover Township Senior Center located on Route 59 in Bartlett. This allows residents to participate in a variety of programs offered at the Center, including ceramics, painting, bingo, and Bunco. It is a suggested donation of a $1.00 one-way, or $2.00 round trip, and residents can purchase a bus pass in advance. To take advantage of the Dial-A-Bus service, call (630)483-5656.

T.R.I.P. Program

The Township Riders Initiative Program (TRIP) is offered to residents age 60 and over, or to individuals 18 and over, with a disability.  This program is for medical purposes only. The hours of operation are Monday-Friday from 5:00 AM-9:00PM, and on Saturday from 7:00AM-4:00PM. This program offers rides to hospitals such as: • Good Shepherd • Rush Presbyterian

• Hines • Stroger

• Loyola • Northwestern • University of Illinois Medical Center

Buses go to the hospitals on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays. The cost is $5.00 per township line crossed, with a maximum of $10.00 one way. A separate registration form is required. To register or schedule a ride call (630) 483-5656.

Volunteer Express

Are you currently driving a friend or family member who has a disability or is a senior to medical appointments or other activities? If so, be part of Hanover Township’s Volunteer Express program. Volunteer drivers in this program are eligible to receive mileage reimbursement federally funded through grant money provided by the Regional Transportation Authority.  This is a great way to become involved in your community and make a difference in the life of someone in need. If interested, please contact our Volunteer and Program Coordinator at (630) 483-5667.

Stars-N-Stripes Café Bucks!

Stop in for lunch and receive $1 coupon to apply to a program at the Hanover Township Senior Center, some exclusions apply. The café offers a choice of two freshly made meals Monday through Friday, 11AM to 1PM at the center. The cost of each complete meal is $6 for ages 59 and younger, $4 for 60 or better! A different choice each day, please check out our menus on the Hanover Township website www.hanover-township.org or call (630) 483-5600 to find out what’s cooking! Coupons may be applied to group exercise classes, arts/computer classes, out trips, and more (excludes Bingo, Casino, AARP programs) for café customers aged 60 and over.

Library of Large Print Books!

Did you know that the Senior Center has a Large Print collection maintained by the Poplar Creek Library? Hundreds of Fiction and Non-Fiction large print books are housed in the Library in the Senior Center. Come in and check out our shelves. The Poplar Creek Library has a book club that meets once a month at the center. Lively discussion and thought provoking insights are shared. Book Club books are available for checkout at the front desk. Check your Club 59 newsletter for the latest book offering. Monday, Wednesday and Friday 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM, Tuesday and Thursday 8:30 AM to 8 PM, Saturday 8:30 AM to 12:30 PM Phone: 630-483-5600 • Fax: 630-483-5690

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Hanover Happenings

Savor the Sixties Tuesday, March 1 5:30PM – 6:30PM                                   Donation: $6 Take food, fun, and informative journey through an extraordinary decade with authors Amy Alessio and Susan Miura. Known for her vintage cooking shows, Amy will discuss popular foods from the 1960s, followed by Susan’s highlights of that decade’s local, national and international culture, entertainment, politics, fashion and more! Sample treats from that decade and receives a 1960s recipe packet. Registration required.

Evening Concert with Mark Dvorak Thursday, March 31, 5:30PM – 6:30PM                                             Donation: $10 Master musician, storyteller & songwriter, Mark Dvorak will perform his popular program, Just Something My Grandma Used to Sing. Enjoy classics from the American songbook, folk favorites and sing-alongs, accompanying himself on guitar and banjo! Be sure not to miss this fantastic show The Chicago Tribune calls “Masterful.” Appetizers will be provided from Moretti’s. Registration required.

Baseball and American Pop Culture Saturday, April 16, 10:30AM – 11:30AM                                                 Donation: $6 Baseball is the National Pastime, not only on the field but in all forms of entertainment. No other sport has inspired so much literature, poetry, film, music, and performance as baseball. Author James Finn Garner explore the historical and literary reasons that drive this American phenomenon and how the tradition continues today. Light refreshments served. Registration required.

Keeping an eye out for these

Upcoming Events! • The Heart of the Matter: Heart Disease Risk Let’s talk about your heart health for February Heart Month. The Office of Community Health will offer an online heart disease risk calculator developed by the Mayo Foundation. You will get your weight and blood pressure screened, and answer a few questions about your medical history, physical activity, and diet. Find out your risk for heart disease and learn what you can do to improve your heart health. Participants will receive the results of the risk calculator to bring to their healthcare provider. Tuesdays at Izaak Walton Center, 9:00AM -4:00PM, Fridays at Astor Avenue Community Center, 9:00AM -4:00PM • Keep your Kidneys Healthy: Manage Diabetes and High Blood Pressure March is Kidney Disease Awareness Month. Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) often has no symptoms until it is very far along. The risks for kidney disease include but are not limited to: being aged 60 or older, certain ethnicities, family history of kidney disease or having certain medical conditions including diabetes, high blood pressure, and heart disease. Diabetes and high blood pressure are the two leading causes of CKD. Have your blood sugar and blood pressure checked for free and learn what you can do to help protect your kidneys.  Receive a Kidney Health Tracker card to bring to your next doctor’s appointment. Tuesdays in March at Izaak Walton Center, 9:00AM -4:00PM, Fridays in March at Astor Avenue, 9:00AM -4:00PM Registration is required

Community Health Kristen Smith, Director

Sprint 2 Spring 5k Run/Walk The Office of Community Health is excited to announce that registration is officially open for the 3rd annual Hanover Township Sprint to Spring 5k! It’s the perfect time to start working towards those New Year’s Resolutions to get healthier and shed some weight. This charitable community run/walk will take place at the Hanover Township Izaak Walton Center & Reserve in Elgin on Saturday, May 7 at 8:00AM. The race route is entirely on pavement and goes through the local neighborhood streets near the Izaak Walton Center. Proceeds from the event will benefit the Hanover Township Foundation which assists residents experiencing financial hardship access needed medical or dental assistance. Participants who register for the race will receive an official 5k event t-shirt. For more information or to register for this fun community event, please visit the official event website at www.sprint2spring.com. In honor of February being Heart Health Awareness Month, we are offering 20% off the registration fee when you use the promo code: HEART. Also, if you’re looking for additional motivation, but don’t know where to start, attend our upcoming presentation Zero to 5k: Preparing for your first 5k race. This inspirational presentation will be given by our Community Health Nurse on March 8 at 10:30AM at the Izaak Walton Center, located at 899 Jay Street in Elgin.

What’s the Deal with Vitamin D?

• Outdoor Walking Club Join the Outdoor Walking Club in 2016. Research has shown that walking for 30 minutes per day can help lower blood pressure, boost your brain health, ease stress, help maintain weight, and much more. Participants can walk alongside others or at their own pace.  On days with inclement weather, the walk will be cancelled. The program will run from April through November. Registration required. Elgin on Tuesdays at 10:30AM: Meet at the Izaak Walton Center and Reserve for a 1 mile loop (2 miles optional) through the neighborhood, Hanover Park on Fridays at 10:30AM: Meet at the Astor Avenue Community Center for a 1.5 mile route through the neighborhood

The dead of winter is among us and the winter blues start to creep in. Don’t be quick to chalk the feelings up to cold weather and being stuck indoors. Research studies have shown that there may be a correlation between Vitamin D deficiency and depression. Vitamin D is a vitamin our bodies need in order to maintain normal health. When our bodies are deficient in it, it can put us at risk for many different diseases including depression. Vitamin D is produced through exposure to the sun or through our diet by eating foods high in Vitamin D. Unfortunately, during the winter and with an unbalanced diet, the body does not always receive proper amounts of Vitamin D. The Office of Community Health offers a simple test for $25 that checks Vitamin D levels. To schedule an appointment, please call our office at (630) 483-5665.

To register for any of these events or programs, please call the Office of Community Health at 630-483-5665.

Phone: 630-483-5665 • Fax: 630-483-5662 Monday through Friday 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM

Tuesdays at the Izaak Walton Center in Elgin Wednesday at the Astor Avenue Community Center in Hanover Park

www.hanover-township.org

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Welfare Services During the holiday season there is typically an increase of families and individuals coming to the Hanover Township Food Pantry. Fortunately for our residents, there were several amazing food collections leading up to the holiday season that ensured our shelves would be stocked with a variety of foods and Sunnydale Ambassadors with their donations supplies. to the Township Food Pantry Last November the Village of Hoffman Estates and the Chicago Mustangs organized a food collection at Mariano’s of Hoffman Estates with individuals from a local Boy Scout Troop, St. Hubert’s Catholic Church and soldiers from a local army recruiting station. Over a two-day period over 7,500lbs of food was collected from Mariano’s customers to benefit the Hanover Township Food Pantry, making it one of the most successful food drives ever for the pantry. At Sunnydale Elementary in Streamwood, students in the Ambassadors Program collected donations for over a month and presented them to the Township at a special ceremony at the school. The Ambassadors is a leadership group that spreads awareness throughout the school while representing Sunnydale in a respectful and responsible manner. Created in partnership with the Hanover Township Department of Youth & Family Services, the group is made up of 27 students and has been active in the school for the past 2 years. In January the food pantry will be installing a walk in freezer and refrigeration unit. This was made possible from funds received by Hanover Township from the Northern Illinois Food Bank Capacity Building Grant. This new refrigeration system will allow the food pantry to stock more frozen and fresh items for residents. Thank you Northern Illinois Food Bank! HANOVER TOWNSHIP JOB FAIR! Are you searching for a new job opportunity? Hanover Township in cooperation with State Representative Fred Crespo and Illinois WorkNet will host their annual Job Fair on Wednesday, March 30 at the Hanover Township Senior Center, 240 S. IL Route 59 in Bartlett. Doors open to veterans beginning at 10:00AM and the general public at 10:30AM, running until 3:00PM. More than 50 vendors will be onsite to interview and offer open positions for opportunities including administrative, health care, industrial and sales. Onsite that day will be employment support agencies like I.D.E.S., Illinois WorkNet Center, and Military Recruiting Officers offering support to residents.

If you are an employer with open positions in your organization and would like to participate in the Job Fair, please contact us at (630) 540-9085 for more information. HOLIDAY SEASON RECAP The Hanover Township sponsor-a-family and toy drive programs provided gifts to 2,103 to Township youth last month. Prior to the Christmas holiday the Township distributed 1,181 meal boxes to families facing financial hardship.

Hanover Township Supervisor Brian P. McGuire handing out supplies at the Township’s holiday meal box distribution. It is only through the continued support of our sponsors, local businesses and dedicated volunteers that allowed the Township to help as many families as we did during this holiday season. St. John the Evangelist and the Knights of Columbus Mary’s Millennium #12801 provided hundreds of toys, as well as significant financial support for hundreds of meal boxes. The Bartlett Lions Club and Jewel Food Stores in Bartlett and Streamwood also provided hundreds of meal boxes for our residents. We would like to especially thank our sponsors Whole Foods, Communities that Care, Claire’s, R&B Youth Foundation, Rydin Decal, Gymkhana as well as many other local organizations including the Bartlett Rotary Club, Streamwood Woman’s Club, Kiwanis Clubs of Streamwood, VFW Post 5151 and VFW Post 11018 that help make this possible year after year.

Hoffman Estates Trustee Michael Gaeta joined Township Trustees Steve Caramelli and Craig Essick at the food pantry collection at Mariano’s in Hoffman Estates

Astor Avenue Community Center - 7431 Astor Avenue, Hanover Park, IL 60133 Phone: 630-540-9085 • Fax: 630-289-1057 Monday through Friday 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM

Food Pantry Hours: Monday 1 PM to 3 PM, Tuesday, 1 PM to 6 PM, Wednesday - Friday 12:30 PM to 3:30 PM, Saturday 9 AM to 11:30 AM

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Hanover Happenings

Mary Jo Imperato, Director

Mental Health Board

Mental Health Board Kristin Vana, Manager

Linda Best Chairwoman

Kathy Biesiadecki Vice-Chair

Kimberly Lemke Secretary

Mary Alice Benoit Meghan Nelson Trustee Liaison Member

National Autism Awareness Month

April is National Autism Awareness Month. Since 1970, the month of April has been used to educate the public about autism. Autism is a complex mental condition and developmental disability, characterized by difficulties in the way a person communicates and interacts with other people. Autism can form during early childhood years (ages 0-3 years) or can be present from birth. This is a lifelong disability with no single known cause. Autism Society of Illinois offers a variety of services and educational resources for both the individual diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder and their family members/caregivers. Since symptoms can vary based on the placement of the individual on the Autism Spectrum no two people with autism will have the same set of symptoms. However, there are several common characteristics found including: • Social Skills: individuals with Autism have problems interacting with others. Children do not have adequate playing and talking skills, in addition to displaying clumsy behavior and/or using offensive and inappropriate comments. • Empathy: Autistic individuals find it difficult to show empathy to others, although they can be taught to acknowledge others feelings. • Physical Contact: some individuals with autism do not like any physical contact such as hugs or physical play with others. • Sudden Changes to Their Environment: a loud noise, a change in intensity of lighting or even a change in smell can affect a person with autism. • Speech: a common speech symptom is “echolalia” in which the person repeats words and phrases that they hear. Speech may be monotonous. In a more extreme diagnosis, a person may not speak at all. • Changes to Behavior and Routine: individuals with autism commonly display repetitive behavior in which they repeat the same action many times over. Any change in behavior or routine can be unsettling, such as re-arranging daily activities like brushing teeth, taking a shower and eating breakfast. DID YOU KNOW?? A new study was released in November by the Center for Disease Control (CDC) National Center for Health Statistics, which identified a prevalence rate of individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) as 1:45. The previous rate was 1:68.

AGENCY SPOTLIGHT: AUTISM SOCIETY OF ILLINOIS The Autism Society of Illinois (ASI) has been around for over 40 years to assist families with information and referrals to help them obtain adequate resources, services, and supports in their communities. They work with people with autism to educate them on their rights to obtain employment, appropriate housing, and the ability to pursue goals and aspirations that are right for them, as individuals. Hanover Township residents can contact the Autism Society at (630) 691-1270 or visit www.autismillinois.org for more information. ASI will also be at the U-46 Special Needs Resource Fair on Saturday March 5, 2016 from 9AM-1PM at the South Elgin High School. Feel free to stop by to visit and learn more!

MENTAL HEALTH BOARD SUPPORTS LOCAL AGENCIES As the State of Illinois completes its seventh month without a budget, local human services agencies continue to suffer the consequences. While some funds have been released, several local agencies have not received any funding from the state since July 1, 2015 or prior. Service providers have been forced to make difficult decisions to keep their doors open, such as no longer accepting new clients, cutting back current services, increasing fees for programming and services, and having to access their reserve funds. The budget impasse has hit home for many area agencies and unfortunately there will be a direct, negative result on our most vulnerable residents. The Mental Health Board is committed to working with local agencies in preventing any disruption of services to our community, as funds allow. As a direct response to the State of Illinois budget impasse, the Mental Health Board has awarded over $150,000 in emergency funding to local human service agencies since May 2015. Emergency funds have been utilized to assist agencies annually funded by the Mental Health Board to sustain services and programming to Hanover Township residents during this time of uncertainty. The Mental Health Board currently funds 31 agencies who provide 43 programs to residents of Hanover Township in the areas of mental health, substance abuse and developmental disabilities. The Mental Health Board meets the fourth Tuesday of the month, at 6:00 PM, at the Township offices located at 250 S. IL Route 59 in Bartlett. For more information regarding the board or the agencies they fund, please contact Mental Health Board Manager, Kristin Vana, at [email protected] or (630) 837-0301.

Phone: 630-837-0301 • Fax: 630-837-0068 Monday through Friday 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM

www.hanover-township.org

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Community and Veterans Affairs

Tom Kuttenberg, Director

Township Veterans Specialist

Veterans Lunch & Movie

Are you a veteran, or do you know a veteran who needs assistance in obtaining the benefits they are entitled to? Stephanie Miller, the Hanover Township Veterans Specialist, is available to meet with veterans and their family members to help them navigate through the programs and forms for assistance.

Hanover Township veterans are invited for a Veterans’ lunch and movie event at the Hanover Township Izaak Walton Center located at 899 Jay Street in Elgin. Join us on Wednesday, March 9 starting at 12:00PM for a viewing of American Sniper. American Sniper follows US Navy SEAL Chris Kyle (Bradley Cooper) who takes his sole mission – to protect his comrades – to heart and becomes one of the most lethal snipers in American history. A free lunch will be provided by the Senior Center’s Stars *N* Stripes Café. Please contact Stephanie Miller, (847) 888-8329 or at [email protected], to RSVP. Seating is limited.

Stephanie can help with issues as they relate to medical care, hospitalization, medication, obtaining a DD214, ID Cards, state and local discounts, outpatient care information, pensions (veterans or widows), disability compensation, burial information and flags. In areas that the Veterans Specialist cannot help, a referral can be made to the proper agency. Stephanie is available Tuesdays and Fridays from 8:30AM – 4:30PM at the Hanover Township Izaak Walton Center, 899 Jay Street in Elgin, (847) 888-8329 and Wednesdays from 8:30AM – 4:00PM at the Township Senior Center, 240 S. IL Route 59 in Bartlett, (630) 483-5600. She can also be reached by email at [email protected].

Veterans Trip The next free Veterans Trip will be a guided tour around the Veteran’s Memorial Hall in Rockford, Illinois on Wednesday, February 3. It stands as a living memorial to the Veterans from all wars, as well as a constant reminder of the sacrifices made by the brave men and women from Winnebago County. The trip will be a guided tour of the facility followed by lunch at the hall. Please note to pack a lunch, lunch will not be provided on this trip. Attendees will meet at the Township Senior Center at 9:00AM, and shuttled by bus to Veteran’s Memorial Hall by 10:15AM. After the tour and lunch, buses will return to the Senior Center by 2:30PM. To register or for additional information, please contact Stephanie Miller at (847) 8888329 or [email protected].

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Hanover Happenings

Free Legal Advice to Veterans On the first Saturday of the month, attorneys Patricia Kelly and Robert E. Olson are available to meet with Veterans to offer free legal advice at the Township Senior Center from 9AM to 10:30AM. The attorneys can assist residents with cases such as qualifying for or denial of benefits. Please bring all relevant paperwork when meeting with the attorneys. For questions, please call 847-888-8329 or email [email protected].

Izaak Walton Center Phone: 847-888-8329 Fax: 847-888-8392 Monday through Friday 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM

Emergency Services William T. Burke, Director

Think Spring – Think Weather Awareness Even though we are still experiencing winter weather, it is important that we remain steadfast in preparation for severe weather. This past December proved once again that while we may expect winter related storms, other severe weather is always possible as demonstrated in the tornados experienced in certain areas. While that type of weather is extraordinary, we do need to be prepared for typical spring weather in the form of severe storms and tornadic activity.

The Hanover Township Emergency Services Department wants to remind you of severe weather preparedness and awareness. It is important as the spring storm season takes hold that you are prepared and aware of the National Weather service and local storm tracking and warnings. Have a weather radio; react to the weather information and instructions on how to ensure the safety of yourself and others.

Have a plan in place and a shelter identified that provides safe haven from storms. Initiate the plan when appropriate and take the necessary precautions. Remember to look out for acquaintances and neighbors that may not be as responsive to changing weather conditions. Review your plan, practice and be willing to take the necessary steps to remain safe.

Hanover Township Emergency Services on

Facebook!

The Hanover Township Department of Emergency Services is on Facebook! Residents can “like” the page to Remember that if and when weather sirens are activated it is time to retreat to safety – they are stay up-to-date on severe activated continuously for three minutes and should send you to a place of safety in the lowest level weather alerts, road closures of your home. A common misconception is that an “all clear” siren will be sounded – that is not true, due to vehicle accidents and monitor weather information for an indication that the weather warning has expired and it is learn more about the recommended that you can leave the area of safety. activities and calls for aid As severe weather approaches, the Emergency Services for the department. To Department will have its team of weather spotters “like” the page, Facebook strategically placed in the Township to monitor weather users can visit conditions. Our volunteers are ready and prepared to www.facebook.com/ monitor weather conditions and to respond to provide HanoverTownship assistance in the event that the Township is impacted. Routine post-storm damage assessments are also conducted by EmergencyServices Emergency Services personnel. and click “like” at the top under the For any other information, please do not hesitate to contact the Hanover Township Emergency Services Department at (630) banner photo. 837-0301 or [email protected]. Remember the differences between weather warning and watches. A weather watch means that conditions exist for the development of severe weather in the form of thunderstorms, tornados and floods. A weather warning means severe weather in the form of thunderstorms, tornadoes and flooding is imminent and retreating to safety should be done immediately.

Become an Emergency Services Volunteer Today! Name ___________________________________________________________________________________________________ Address __________________________________________________________________________________________________ City ___________________________________ State _______________________________ Zip _________________________ Phone ________________________________ E-mail ______________________________________________________

PLEASE RETURN TO: Emergency Services • 250 S. IL Route 59 • Bartlett, IL 60103 or email [email protected]

www.hanover-township.org

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PRSRT STD ECRWSS U.S. Postage PAID Bartlett, IL 60103 Permit #40

www.hanover-township.org

CAR RT SORT POSTAL CUSTOMER LOCAL

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TOWNSHIP OFFICIALS

SUPERVISOR

Brian P. McGuire

CLERK

Katy Dolan Baumer

ASSESSOR

Thomas S. Smogolski

HIGHWAY COMMISSIONER

P. Craig Ochoa

TRUSTEES

Mary Alice Benoit

Steve Caramelli

Craig Essick

Howard K. Krick