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Riverwoods Village Voice
Riverwoods
V V I I LL LL AA G
G EE V
V O
O I I CC E E
Gardeners
July/August 2021
consumed by other animals, and so
Volume 25/Issue 4 it goes up the food chain. Without
VillageofRiverwoods.com
Play a Role in plants, ecosystems collapse. But not
just any plant will do.
Creating Wildlife
Corridors
By Ann Whitman
By now you’ve heard the message to
add native plants to your landscape.
The urgency of that message and the
potential impact of each person’s
contribution hit home for me in a
lecture by Douglas Tallamy, author of
the groundbreaking book, Bringing Yellow warblers need a steady supply of
caterpillars and other insects to raise
Nature Home: How You Can Sustain their young.
Wildlife with Native Plants. He
explained how the cumulative efforts
of individuals across the country
Why Native Matters
planting wildlife-friendly gardens Adult monarch butterflies, for
and landscapes can begin to reverse example, can sip nectar from many
the habitat destruction and species flower species. But their caterpillars
loss that has occurred over the last only eat milkweed plants. They
century. And it starts right in my discern the chemical signature of
backyard. food plants through sensors on their
feet. If the chemistry doesn’t match,
Tallamy, a professor of entomology they don’t recognize a plant as food.
and wildlife ecology at the University No milkweed? No Monarchs. Many
of Delaware, showed us why native insect species will only eat plants
plants are critical to the survival of with which they co-evolved. That’s
our most cherished animal species. why native plants play such a critical
That’s because all ecosystems begin role in healthy habitats.
with plants, which harness the sun’s
energy through photosynthesis. Unfortunately, the majority of the
Animals consume the plants and large and diverse natural habitats
transform the energy into tissue that’s Continued on page #10
LETTER FROM THE MAYOR
A Reminder to in Riverwoods. The Storm Water
Management committee is
just being formed, and more
Preserve the information will be forthcoming.
If you have comments for
Uniqueness of the committee, please email
Stormwater@villageofriverwoods.
com.
VILLAGE
Riverwoods This Village is not the same place
it was when my husband and I
GOVERNMENT moved in some 40+ years ago,
It has been two short months since
taking office, and it’s been a real when horse barns outnumbered
All Village Board Meetings are held at
educational experience! I have swimming pools and tennis courts.
the Village Hall at 300 Portwine Road.
said, it is one thing to watch the With road expansions, and the
Meetings are open to the public and Mayor and another to actually BE increase in retail and residential
residents are encouraged to attend. the Mayor. So true! building, the surrounding
communities have had an
Riverwoods Village Board From establishing a special enormous impact on Riverwoods.
1st and 3rd Tuesdays at 7:30pm. Aug. committee for Storm Water This serves as a reminder to us
3, 17, Sept. 7, 21 and Oct. 5 and 19. Management, to working on that we must act and behave as
Riverwoods Plan Commission the upcoming opening of the a community in order to preserve
1st Thursdays at 7:30pm. Flatwoods Heritage Center, the uniqueness of Riverwoods that
Aug. 5, Sept. 2 and Oct. 7. coordinating staff, consultants, drew us here, and to accommodate
and digging into many other changes that have enhanced our
administrative and procedural identity.
G E T I N V O LV E D “weeds”, it has been a busy time.
IN RIVERWOODS
Respectfully,
With respect to the special
Riverwoods Preservation committee for Storm Water
Council (RPC) Management, I believe we are
David Shimberg, President
all aware that the management
RiverwoodsRPC@gmail.com
of storm water flows is becoming
Kris Ford
Riverwoods Residents increasingly important as we
Association (RRA) Mayor of Riverwoods
are subject to more severe rain
Jill Kaplan events than in the past. While
847-945-0062 the first half of 2021 produced
jedma1@yahoo.com
extreme drought conditions in
Riverwoods Book Club Riverwoods, the last two weeks in
June Melber June produced drenching rains
847-940-7086 and heavy downpours. Although
argos501@aol.com most properties in Riverwoods do
Plant Sale Committee not have drainage ditches, storm
Sheila Hollander water flows across all properties in
847-945-4879 its journey to those ditches, and
sheilahol@comcast.net eventually to the two waterways
Brushwood Center that flow through the Village.
at Ryerson Woods
I have appointed Trustee Rick
Catherine Game
Jamerson to lead this very
Executive Director
cgame@brushwoodcenter.org important committee to review
the current storm water situation
2
VILLAGE OF RIVERWOODS BOARD OF TRUSTEES
Riverwoods Village full meeting that Mayor Norris will
preside over. On behalf of the Village
RIVERWOODS
VILLAGE BOARD OF
Board of Trustees and Trustees, Trustee Haber thanked
TRUSTEES
Meeting Notes Mayor Norris for all of his years of
dedicated service to the Village of
Kris Ford
Mayor/Board President
Riverwoods both as President and as 847-945-3990
The following is a summary of ordinances, kford@rvillageofriverwoods.com
a Trustee. During his tenure, Mayor
resolutions, and non-routine matters
considered by the Board of Trustees from Norris showed great leadership and
the meeting minutes of April 20, May 18 accomplished the following: VILLAGE TRUSTEES
and June 1. Read the entirety of these • Extended the sewer system
minutes, including the current Police into south Riverwoods Michael Clayton
Reports, and Plan Commission Reports on • Extended the water and placed Economic Dev./Finance/Capital Planning
224-813-1263
the Village of Riverwoods website at www. fire hydrants in various locations mclayton@villageofriverwoods.com
villageofriverwoods.com. including north Riverwoods to address
Liliya Dikin
fire protection Communications
April 20 • Implemented SSAs for road 847-945-3990
repair ldikin@villageofriverwoods.com
SENIOR TRANSPORTATION • Oversaw initial development of Andrew Eastmond
PROGRAM the southeast corner of Milwaukee and Woodlands/Ecology
847-945-3990
Deerfield Roads
Mayor Norris noted at the last aeastmond@villageofriverwoods.com
• Secured an alternate water
Board of Trustees meeting, that the Michael Haber
source from Northbrook resulting in a
Trustees disestablished the senior Legal/Police
considerable cost savings for the Village 847-940-1957
transportation program. Trustee
• Oversaw construction of the mhaber@villageofriverwoods.com
Hollander had asked to re-establish the
new Village Hall Henry Hollander
program as a needs-based program.
• Oversaw creation of the Village Roads/Land Use
The County has some needs-based 847-945-4879
campus
programs where the recipient would hhollander@villageofriverwoods.com
• Acquired public space
have to meet the following criteria: Rick Jamerson
across from the Village as well as the
• Be at least 65 years of age Building/Utilities
Hermann Wildflower Farm on Deerfield
• Have lived in the home for at 847-370-6565
and Portwine rjamerson@villageofriverwoods.com
least two (2) years
• Developed an outdoor space
• Household income of $65,000
and education center at Deerfield and
or less COMMUNITY
Saunders Roads SERVICES
• Implemented a cost share
Mayor Norris noted the Village has a
program to enhance the ecology of the Russ Kraly
couple programs to rebate gas tax and
Village of Riverwoods and protect the Director of Community Services
sewer charges. The County and/or State
woodlands 847-945-3990
qualifies the people for the programs. rkraly@villageofriverwoods.com
• Oversaw the passage of the
There is virtually no overhead to
Riverwoods Preservation Ordinance Bruce Dayno
the Village. Mayor Norris noted the Chief of Police
• Leaves the Village in very good 847-945-1130
former program had a limit of a $5
fiscal order notwithstanding all the bdayno@villageofriverwoods.com
reimbursement and a maximum of
improvements listed above Tom Krueger
three (3) trips per month.
Fire Chief
The Board voted to re-establish the The Board is very thankful for his Lincolnshire/Riverwoods
leadership. Trustee Clayton added Fire Protection District
senior transportation program on an 847-634-2512
as-needed basis for those that qualify Mayor Norris also represented
for the assessment freeze. the Village at SWALCO, initiated
administrative hearings and revised
GOOD OF THE ORDER
the Village’s financial procedures and
Trustee Clayton noted this was the last processes. He reported John Norris has
3
VILLAGE OF RIVERWOODS BOARD OF TRUSTEES
also been friendly, a man of principal would be illicit discharge. There will
and dedicated to doing what is best for not be a lot of inspections, but Gewalt
the Village. Hamilton, consultant civil engineers,
would follow up with them. Trustee
On behalf of the Village, Chief Dayno Jamerson noted there will be more salt,
presented Mayor Norris with a which the Village will have to watch.
Waterman pen set and commemorative
COMMUNITY SERVICES
plaque.
Director of Community Services Russ
Kraly reported that the home at 1
May 18
Woodland has been abandoned for two
years and is in very poor shape. The
ENGINEER’S REPORT
person who lived there passed away
RIVERWOODS Village Engineer Pat Glenn showed and the bank owns the house. The
VILLAGE VOICE the annual NPDES (National Pollution pool pump and fence were installed
Discharge Elimination System) and some dead greenery was removed
Riverwoods Village Voice is
presentation, which is the annual today. The Village will have the lawn
published bimonthly by the Village
of Riverwoods. It’s purpose is to update on the MS4 (Municipal Separate maintained every few weeks. Trustee
provide a communication forum and Storm Sewer) program. The Village Hollander asked if the Village could
information for residents. The views submitted a notice of intent to the purchase the property very reasonably.
expressed in the newsletter are not IEPA on February 26, 2021. The NPDES Mr. Kraly will contact the bank.
necessarily those of the Mayor or
regulations require a permit for Mayor Ford suggested taking steps to
members of the Board of Trustees.
the discharge of storm water from determine when health and safety
Editor: Jackie Borchew. an MS4. The permit requirements issues have been resolved then filing for
Any resident wishing to become a include developing, implementing and receivership.
newsletter staff volunteer please call
enforcing a storm water management
the Village Hall at 847-945-3990
and leave your name and phone
program plan, implementing SMPP Mr. Kraly is working with Mr. Glenn
and tracking progress and reporting and Chief Dayno on the shabby looking
annually on that progress. fire hydrants. Trustee Jamerson noted
SEND IN THOSE
LETTERS!
in the past that the Village has been
There are six minimum control diligent about removing signs from
Letters from residents and measures in the plan including roadways and noticed a lot of signs for
Riverwoods homeowners’ public education and outreach real estate tax help showing up. Mayor
associations are invited and on storm water impact, public Ford suggested also asking the SSAs to
encouraged. Preferred length: participation and involvement, illicit pull up the signs. Trustee Hollander
approximately 250 words or less, discharge detection and elimination, suggested the police officers pull
typed. All letters must include the
construction site storm water runoff up the signs when they are driving
author’s name, address and phone
number. Letters may be printed, control, post-construction storm water through the Village.
space permitting, but may be edited management for new development
for grammar, clarity and length. If and redevelopment, and pollution Mayor Ford noted the Village previously
controversial topics are addressed, prevention / good housekeeping for had a clean-up day. She suggested
the editor will seek opposing municipal operations. having a community event next year.
viewpoints for balance.
Trustee Jamerson noted the RPC was
Trustee Jamerson asked if Lake County in charge of the clean-up day but
Deadline for the
September/October issue: would put in culverts, curbs, etc. when stopped because there were not enough
August 16, 2021 they work on Deerfield Road. He also volunteers.
Send to: asked if it would fall under the Village’s
Editor INFORMATION ITEMS FROM
purview. Mr. Glenn explained it would
Riverwoods Village Voice THE PRESIDENT
fall under the Village’s purview.
300 Portwine Road
During construction, the County is Update of Deerfield Road Corridor
Riverwoods, IL 60015
or jackie@borchew.com responsible. Once construction is done, Project – Trustee Hollander reported
there is not a high likelihood there on the Deerfield Road Corridor Project.
4
VILLAGE OF RIVERWOODS BOARD OF TRUSTEES
There were several complaints from Opening Village Hall and Board departments have a program for
residents about the appearance of the Meetings – Mayor Ford suggested wellness checks and discussing job
sound wall. He explained the criteria waiting to hear Governor Pritzker’s stressors at a cost of $2800. Chief Dayno
has been met, but the Village is limited orders regarding reopening plans asked the Trustees to sign an agreement
in what they can do. The Village has before making any decisions. She does with First Responders Wellness Center
some influence on the visual impact not anticipate making any changes this to perform these services.
and materials. The County has spent a month; which means that the Village
significant amount of time addressing Hall is still closed and those entering The Trustees believe these services are
the issue. Trustee Hollander noted Village Hall are asked to wear masks part of the Village’s existing health
some residents have received letters as and maintain social distance. plan. Chief Dayno explained the Village
their property may be impacted by the has an Employee Assistance Program
widening of Deerfield Road. Village Campus is Open – Trustee (EAP), but it is different. Chief Dayno
Hollander announced that the Village would like to make the First Responders
Trustee Clayton noted the RPC had a Campus is available for residents to Wellness Center services mandatory
meeting to go through an assessment use. He suggested publicizing it in the training while officers are on duty. He
of the work that has been done. The Village Voice, on the Village website explained this program specializes in
conversation was extensive. He urged and on the LED entry sign. He noted first responders while the EAP program
anyone that has comments to submit residents do not need to reserve the is more reactionary and does not have
them to the County as part of the pavilion at this time. the evaluation techniques for first
Public Hearing process. responders. Mr. Huvard added the
Mayor Ford indicated Phase I EAP makes referrals while the First
Village Donation to Deerfield High construction is complete. Trustee Responders Wellness Center is more
School After-Prom – The Village received Clayton expressed concern that the specialized.
a request for a donation. In the past, Discovery Center was not built and the
the Village has donated $1000, which western pathways are not handicapped The Board voted in agreement to
falls under the Mayor’s spending limit. accessible. Mr. Huvard explained approve the wellness contract for the
Mayor Ford asked the Trustees for their the consultants walked through the police department.
opinions. campus with Mayor Emeritus Norris
APPROVAL OF ELECTRICAL
and there should be a report on the
AGGREGATION CONTACT
The Trustees do not have an objection final walkthrough. The Trustees
to this donation, as it has been done want to ensure the campus meets Trustee Jamerson introduced Mike
for many years; however, they want to safety requirements; however, there Mudge from Rock River Energy
reiterate that the process for donations is nothing precluding people from Company. Mr. Mudge explained that
should be followed. Mr. Huvard using the campus before an official Rock River Energy gets rates from
suggested making this donation under announcement is made. Mayor Ford alternative energy suppliers and
the Mayor’s discretion, as the Trustees will meet with Trustees Clayton and everyone in Riverwoods would get that
did not have any objections. Jamerson after reviewing the final rate if they do not opt out. The program
walkthrough report. Trustee Haber saved residents three quarters of a
believes the Village should hold a million dollars in the first few years.
June 1
grand opening as part of the Village The current contract is up on August 1,
branding and celebration of the 2021. There are different options now,
INFORMATION ITEMS FROM
Village. including solar energy, but they require
THE PRESIDENT
residents to opt in and are not seamless.
Anticipated 2021 Projects – Mayor Ford New Business
If the Village continues with electrical
is looking into two large projects that aggregation, the Trustees need to act
may be expensive. One is the website. WELLNESS CONTRACT
tonight. Rates change daily.
Trustee Dikin will take the lead on FOR POLICE DEPARTMENT
amending the Village website. Mayor Chief Dayno noted it has been a tough There are three options. (1) Dynegy
Ford is also looking at making the year to be a police officer. There has had the lowest bid for the traditional
contracts and Resolutions easier to find been an increase in officer suicides aggregation program. Their current
and accessible via the Village website. and mental health issues. Other rate is 6.947 cents while the current
5
VILLAGE OF RIVERWOODS BOARD OF TRUSTEES
(2) ComEd rate is 6.985 cents. ComEd The Board voted to reappoint Laurie
changes their rates twice a year. Rate Breitkopf as the chairperson of the Plan
could go up or down. The Village Commission.
program would be locked in, but
residents can leave the program Trustee Hollander moved to reappoint
without any fee. The second option is members of the Zoning Board of
a hybrid option. Residents would pay Appeals and appoint Mike Marshall
the current. (3) The third option is with and Tim Buzzard to the ZBA and Sherry
Community Solar. Residents would Graditor as Chairperson. The Board
have to opt-in and there are high opt- voted in favor.
out fees and long-term commitments. STANDING COMMITTEE REPORTS
Communications & IT – Trustee Dikin
The Village could do a municipal
reported the committee will have
aggregation program and do more
a long agenda and try to work on
research for a solar energy program.
standardizing branding with electronic
The Village could then direct residents
signatures. She is also working on
how to opt into this program. One issue
changes to the website.
is that residents would receive two
bills, which is somewhat confusing.
some would opt out of the aggregate Woodlands & Ecology – Trustee
program. Trustee Hollander noted that Eastmond met with Mayor Ford about
Trustee Dikin asked about peak time
last time, there were significant savings the woodlands and will meet with
savings hours between May and
as a community, making the decision Village Ecologist Steve Zimmerman
October. In addition, ComEd has
easier. The Trustees discussed the about enforcement. Mayor Ford
publicized they are giving relief to
possibility of a civic grant, where rates explained this committee will be
customers. Mr. Mudge explained a
are bumped up by a thousandth of a responsible for the relationships with
resident would have to be on ComEd
cent and the grant money is given to the RPC and Brushwood.
directly for those programs. He noted
the current rate is close to the ComEd the community. Mr. Mudge explained
the previous Board wanted the Trustee Jamerson noted there has been
rate, but it would be locked in for three
residents to save as much as possible. a lot of turnover in south Riverwoods
years. In the past, when the aggregate
The Trustees want to provide as many and residents think they can do what
rate was higher than the ComEd
options to residents as possible. they want. The Village needs to educate
rate, they sent out letters to residents
new residents as they come into the
informing them of the rates.
The Board voted to approve the three- Village. Laurie Breitkopf suggested
tier electrical aggregation contract hosting a new resident party with
Mr. Mudge suggested locking into
with Dynegy, subject to review by the an RPC representative and Village
the aggregate program. He noted
Village attorney. Ecologist, Steve Zimmerman. Trustee
the Community Solar program is an
Eastmond believes that would be
individual sign-up program that would COMMITTEE ASSIGNMENTS AND
welcoming and a good way to educate
require solar panels. The program APPOINTMENTS INCLUDING STORM
new residents.
requires residents to be on ComEd WATER MANAGEMENT TASK FORCE
directly. Mr. Mudge can research
Mayor Ford noted there is a change Roads & Land Use – Trustee Hollander
and find a solar provider without
in committee assignments. Trustee wants a determination of how the
high termination fees and long-term
Jamerson will be the Village’s drought is affecting well depths.
commitments. The Village could then
representative to the DBR Chamber of
put that information on the website.
Commerce. Mayor Ford also reminded Finance & Economic Development
the Trustees to be mindful of the Open – Trustee Clayton reported the
The Trustees discussed the time
Meetings Act. She urged the Trustees Brushwood program on backyard
crunch due to legal requirements. Mr.
to refresh what needs to be done when habitats was very successful and
Mudge explained that if the Village
there is a committee with volunteers. had excellent participation from
does not act tonight, he would have
Mayor Ford wants to have clear records Riverwoods residents.
to put everyone back on ComEd and
on appointments to commissions.
6
THE VILLAGE OF RIVERWOODS
Director of Community Services Police Report
That Woodland Project Area Ruse Burglaries
May Require A Permit
There have been several ruse burglaries occurring in North
Suburban communities recently, including one that took
place on Hoffman Ln. in Riverwoods.
By Russell Kraly
In a typical ruse burglary, a lone suspect knocks on the
Hope everyone is enjoying the summer. We finally have door and tells the potential victim he is doing work in the
some rain and the flowers are blooming, vegetables are area. He typically lures the victim to the backyard to show
growing and the grass is finally turning green instead of them where work needs to be done or to point to where
looking like hay!! he is doing work at a neighbor’s home. While the victim
is distracted in the yard, other suspects enter through the
We’ve noticed that some people have lined their ditchlines
front door and steal valuables.
with stones/rocks. This is not allowed, you effect the
drainage of the storm water. A few people have lined In other versions, the suspect identifies himself as a village
their ditchline with plastic/fabric, this is against what the or utility worker and distracts victims by showing them
ditchline is designed for. It designed to collect water during false plumbing or electrical problems in or outside their
storms and then move it along its designated path until homes. The common theme is that they show up without
it’s dispersed. Sometimes it takes a while for it to go away, an appointment and distract victims while their unseen
but part of the process is it will soak into the ground and partners burglarize the home.
disappear quicker. If you line the ditchline with anything it
removes an important part of the drainage action, soaking Never let people into your home or be lured outside by
into the ground. The engineers have been driving around people you don’t know. Keep your doors locked. Dial 911
and letting people know that they need to remove these immediately if anyone tries to talk you into letting them in
implements so the storm water system can do what it’s or showing you something outside. Village employees and
designed to do. contractors carry Village ID’s. Police should be called if you
are not certain of their identity.
Also, we’ve had some people removing trees (because they
thought they were dead) and some natural plant growth The groups that commit these crimes almost always prey on
because they thought they were weeds. Please, before you the elderly. Please share this article with elderly neighbors,
do anything, get in touch with our Village Ecologist Steve, friends and relatives.
and let him tell you what you can and can’t do. We have
For questions contact:
ordinances covering these type of things and the fines can
Bruce Dayno, Riverwoods Chief of Police
be pretty substantial if you violate them!
847-945-1130
Hope everyone has a great summer, enjoy the weather and bdayno@villageofriverwoods.com
the outdoors and …..oh yes…..please stay safe!!
Village Stewards for the Woodlands
We need your help to save our woodlands, our most valuable resource. As a part of the Village's
programs to protect our woodlands, we are looking for residents to volunteer as Village Stewards for
the woodlands. This special group will help the Village with ideas and be trained to communicate with
residents about the value of our woodlands. If you are interested or want more information, please call
the Village Hall directly at 847-945-3990.
7
THE VILLAGE OF RIVERWOODS
Electric Municipal
Aggregation Program
Rick Jamerson, Trustee
In 2012, the Village of Riverwoods entered into an Electric
Municipal Aggregation Program. During the first three-year
contract under the program with an alternative electricity
supplier, the program saved the participating residents over
$1,000,000 collectively. Energy pricing has undergone
many changes since then. Our current aggregation contract
expires August 1, 2021. The Village solicited bids from
seven electricity suppliers and has chosen Dynegy as our in the coming months. Under the current statues, residents
supplier for the next three years. Dynegy is the current wishing to join a Community Solar program need to join
aggregation supplier for the Village of Riverwoods. individually. Since there isn’t an early termination fee with
the Dynegy aggregation program, residents may switch to a
As a reminder to residents familiar with the program and for
solar provider at any time.
new residents unfamiliar with the program, the aggregation
process allows the Village to acquire fixed rates for all of Residents with questions should call the Village at 847-
the residents in the Village that wish to participate in the 945-3990.
program. Residents can opt out of the program at any time,
without charge. Residents in the program will receive only
one bill for their electricity. ComEd will bill for both the Private Well Levels to be
electricity distribution, provided by ComEd, and for the
energy usage, provided by Dynegy. Monitored Again
Rick Jamerson, Trustee
The Village received two rates for electricity from Dynegy.
The Traditional Power Rate Program is $0.06947 per The Village of Riverwoods will begin to monitor water levels
kWh (kilowatt hour) and the Renewable Power Program at several locations in Riverwoods. Well levels were tracked
is $0.07323 per kWh. These rates are fixed until August for many years, but the tracking was discontinued in late
2024. The cost differential between the traditional and 2012. There is concern that well levels are decreasing
100% renewable power program is less than one half of with our changing weather. Aquifers across our region
one cent per kWh. For a home using 1000 kWh per month, are stressed and replenishing them is not just a matter of
this amounts to $3.76 additional cost to have your home additional rainfall in the local area. A good portion of the
powered by 100% renewable energy. Since Riverwoods is a Village is served by private wells. Monitoring the water
unique environment, please consider the Renewable Power levels will allow the Village to carefully consider future
option. To enroll in the Renewable Power Program, please water strategies.
call Dynegy at 844-351-7691 and request the “Green”
option. The Village has purchased equipment to measure the
water level in a well. We have selected seven wells located
All residents and small businesses in Riverwoods should throughout the Village to monitor. The equipment should
have received a letter from Dynegy explaining the program arrive soon, and we expect monitoring to begin within
along with Frequently Asked Questions and an opt out the next 30 days. The well levels will be checked on a
postcard. Residents on special ComEd pricing programs, monthly basis, recorded, and then graphed. While we
such as time of day usage, need to remain with ComEd as still have the old data, some of those wells have been
their energy supplier. These special pricing programs are abandoned and comparisons between different wells are not
not available under the aggregation program. useful. Well levels vary from property to property as well
as month to month. Well depths also vary from property to
The Village is also reviewing Community Solar providers.
property. It will take some time for trends to emerge. As
Our goal is to investigate the different suppliers and their
data is collected, the Village will report the findings on a
terms and then recommend the best suppliers to the Village
regular basis. If you have questions about the upcoming
residents. We expect to be able to make recommendations
monitoring, please contact the Village at 847-945-3990.
8
RIVERWOODS PRESERVATION COUNCIL
The Des Plaines River River) protects wildlife habitat and native plants, provides flood
management, prevents erosion, and acts as a buffer against
– A Local Gem development along the River and floodplain.
In addition, the Greenway is an important flyway for migrating
Riverwoods residents are fortunate to live close to a significant birds. According to Allison Frederick of the Lake County Forest
waterway that is home to a wide variety of plants and animals. Preserve: "Animals and plants, through their seed and pollen,
Walk along the Des Plaines River Trail and Greenway and you are not cut off from each other and are less restricted in their
will see evidence of the beaver’s handiwork, footprints of deer, movement. For such things as tiny frogs, rare butterflies and
raccoons and coyotes in the soft mud at the river’s edge, and delicate wildflowers, which stay strong only through a genetic
possibly an American toad or leopard frog as it hops across the mix with other groups of their kin, the Greenway is crucial."
path. Irises bloom in the damp floodplain in spring, and owls, The remaining 24% of the land bordering the Des Plaines River
ducks, herons, and songbirds can be seen and heard as you is private and commercial property.
walk. Huge bur oaks, swamp oaks, silver maples, and black
walnuts are among the many species of trees that flourish in Recreation - Residents with cartop boats, canoes, kayaks,
this wet area. paddleboards, or other small non-motorized watercraft may
use the carry-in boat ramp on Route 60, just east of Milwaukee
Des Plaines River Trail - Since 1961, the Lake County Forest Avenue, on the west side of the River. Launching is free and
Preserve District has been building a trail along the river, piece parking is available.
by piece. In 2015 the 31.4 miles of trail, winding through 12
forest preserves, were completed, and hikers, birders, runners, Fishing and ice fishing are available but a license is required for
horseback riders, cross-country skiers, and bikers now are able ages 16 and older.
to travel from south through the Cook County portion of the
And during winter months, the local forest preserves are a great
trail to north all the way to the Wisconsin border. Bridges and
site for ice skating, sledding, snowmobiling, and cross-country
underpasses allow travel on the entire route without crossing
skiing.
any major roads.
For details about the Des Plaines River Trail and Greenway, the
The Des Plaines River Trail and Greenway protects more than
many other trails in the Lake County forest preserves, and the
76% of the Lake County portion of the Des Plaines River.
various recreational opportunities, check out the Lake County
While the gravel trail provides recreational opportunities, the
Forest Preserve website at www.lcfpd.org.
Greenway (i.e. the undeveloped natural area surrounding the
9
THE VILLAGE OF RIVERWOODS
Wildlife Cooridors; Continued from the cover counting water birds) feed their offspring? Hint:
It’s not seeds, not berries and not earthworms. The
that once existed in the U.S. have been lost or answer? Bugs.
fragmented into small pockets, broken up and Insects and arthropods (spiders and related species)
altered by cities, farms, industry and other human provide the rich source of protein that young birds
activity. Home landscapes with broad expanses need for rapid and healthy growth. Without a steady
of sterile lawns and non-native plants add to the supply of bugs, the vast majority of our beloved
problem. Huge areas of complex ecosystems that songbirds would vanish. In fact, many of them already
once supported thousands of species have been have.
reduced to islands of habitat in a sea of inhospitable
terrain. Separated from other suitable habitats, Small Steps, Big Impact
wildlife in these pockets have nowhere to go should
natural or man-made disasters threaten. Add that to Tallamy isn’t asking you to tear up your landscape and
the fact that individual species populations weaken spend thousands of dollars on new plants. Instead,
from inbreeding and you have a recipe for species he recommends making small changes, one plant at a
decline. time. For the biggest impact, especially in small
Creating Corridors
What’s a gardener to do? My first “aha!” moment
during Tallamy’s talk came when he explained how
planting native trees and shrubs could reconnect our
fragmented habitats to one another to form larger,
more complex and diverse ecosystems. Backyard
by backyard, neighborhood by neighborhood, when
gardeners add native plants to their landscapes they
create stepping stones connecting formerly isolated
habitat islands. Biologists call these “wildlife
corridors,” and they’re critical for species to find the
food, shelter, and breeding opportunities they need
to thrive. And once a native garden is established,
there’s no need for pesticides, fertilizers, or excessive
watering or mowing. Every backyard, no matter how
small, becomes part of the solution.
The Role of Insects Great Spangled Fritillary adults feed on the nectar of many
flowering plants, but their caterpillars can only eat violets
My second “aha” moment during Tallamy’s (Viola species). Photos: Ann Whitman
presentation came when I learned that plant-eating
insects comprise 37 percent of all terrestrial animal
species on the planet. That’s a pretty important link suburban yards, select plants that support the greatest
in the food chain and illustrates what a huge role number of species. Trees and shrubs sustain more
insects play in healthy habitats. species than perennials and are the best place to
start. When it’s time to replace a non-native Norway
So, the first step is to choose native plants that maple (Acer platanoides), for example, choose a native
support diverse insect species. The National red or silver maple (Acer rubrum or A. saccharinum).
Audubon Society and other groups have been Replace burning bush (Euonymus alata) with highbush
warning for decades that North American songbird or rabbit-eye blueberries, fothergilla, red chokeberry
populations are in steep decline and habitat loss (aronia) or enkianthus. If you have room for a majestic
is a primary culprit. Here’s a pop quiz: What do shade tree, Tallamy recommends oaks, which support
96 percent of bird species in North America (not 534 species in the mid-Atlantic states.
10THE VILLAGE OF RIVERWOODS
Mark Your Calendars!
Reuse/Recycle-O-Rama
Saturday, October 2, 2021
9am–12pm
Riverwoods Village Hall
All items are intended for reuse so please make
sure that they are clean and in good usable
condition. Wet, dirty or moldy items will not
be accepted.
Acceptable Items
One third of our food supply depends on insect pollinators,
such as bees. They need pesticide-free flowering plants and
shelter to raise their young.
Clothing / Coats and jackets, dresses, Halloween
Suburban homeowners can do themselves and the costumes, hats and scarves, jeans, suits and tuxedos,
environment a big favor by replacing grass lawns sweaters and ties
with native plants. The trouble is that too many of us
feel peer pressure from neighbors to use weedkillers, Textiles / Bedspreads, duvets, comforters, curtains,
fertilizers and other chemicals to maintain manicured table linens and towels / No fabric scraps, pillows,
lawns. Raise your hand if you have ever felt your mattresses, rugs, carpets or electric blankets
lawn feels overgrown the moment a neighbor mows
Shoes / Paired, bagged and marked “Shoes” Please
their yard. Americans also use way more water and
fertilizer on their lawns than farmers use to grow corn, tie shoes together with the laces or secure with a
soybeans and other crops. Lawn care is a $76 billion rubber band / No ice skates or roller blades
a year industry. Accessories / Purses, handbags, hats, belts, jewelry,
Replacing an entire yard with native plants all at back packs and duffle bags / No luggage on wheels
once might seem overwhelming and impractical. The Eyeglasses
solution may be to encourage people to think about
digging up sod in sections and slowly transforming Hearing Aids
their lawns into more natural areas. Keys
There are huge benefits to using a lawn mower less Plush Toys / Stuffed animals and dolls
often. Running a lawn mower for one hour creates the Sports Equipment / No skis, bikes or exercise
same amount of pollution as driving the average car
machines
for 350 miles.
Musical Instruments / No keyboards, pianos or drums
Good things happen when you remove the choking
thatch of grass and let the earth breathe. It would
be amazing if entire neighborhoods were filled with This event is sponsored by
yards that looked more like natural prairies than the The Riverwoods Preservation Council
outfield at Guaranteed Rate Field. Once you plant just The Village of Riverwoods
a couple native things, the wildlife finds you, which is and SWALCO
kind of amazing.
11RIVERWOODS RESIDENTS ASSOCIATION
The Riverwoods Residents was the name used by early residents of the Deerfield
area to refer to the beautiful woodland area where they
Association (RRA)and its role in frequently picnicked and hunted.
the founding of Riverwoods The Riverwoods area grew slowly, a few settlers at a time,
until after WWII. In the early 1950s there were about 40
In the Beginning – In 1836, after the peaceful families in unincorporated Riverwoods, about 300 in the
Pottawatomie and Illini Indian tribes signed a treaty early 1960s and about 1600 in the early 1970s. People came
giving the lush woodlands, swamps and O-Plain (Des for the trees, the space and the freedom. Many built or
Plaines) River lands (now Riverwoods) to the U. S. helped build their own houses.
government, non-Indian traders, trappers, hunters and
woodsmen were allowed to travel or settle on the land. In Riverwoods Moves Toward Independence – Three major
1841 the first land purchase was recorded in what is now things happened in the 1950s to move Riverwoods
Riverwoods. Other settlers followed, along Luther Road towards independence. First, in 1954 the Riverwoods area
(Riverwoods Road) near Deerfield Road. residents voted to leave the Aptakisic-Tripp School District
and join the Deerfield School District, increasing taxes
Many Chicagoans came to the popular Clybourn Park from $9 to $100 on one acre of vacant land. Second, the
Amusement Center that was established on Milwaukee Riverwoods Residents Association (RRA) was formed to give
Avenue, just north of Deerfield Road, in 1893, thus residents a stronger voice in county decisions concerning
exposing more people to the natural beauty of the unincorporated Riverwoods. Third, RRA went to court to
area. The area was popular with North Shore residents, stop a developer from subdividing the area that is now
as well, many camping by the Des Plaines River in the Country Club Estates and Ravinia Green and Deerfield Golf
summertime in the 1900s-1920s. Some built summer Clubs into small city-sized lots. Residents were concerned
cabins along the river. The Izaak Walton League of that the smaller lots would destroy the look and feel of
Winnetka bought 5,277 acres in 1928 for their boy Riverwoods and cause taxes to go higher.
and girl scouting organization.
Riverwoods The $20,000 legal fees and expenses for the court
fight needed to be paid, and some people felt that
incorporating Riverwoods as a village was a solution.
The first vote, led by RRA president Max Hoffman, was
taken in 1958. Approximately 200 families voted and the
decision was defeated. A year later, RRA president John
Davenport led a second incorporation vote on December
12, 1959, in the home of Hank and Norma Conedera and
the vote passed 99 in favor, 40 against. Riverwoods would
become an incorporated village in the state of Illinois.
The first village officers were: Bob Clendenin, president;
Lucille Billeter, Vern Rutter, Sugurd Gaugland, Hank
Conedera, Gunnar Sundvahl and Clarence Pontius, board
members; and Russ Benedict, village clerk.
RRA Launches Arts & Riverwoods – On the first weekend
of October 1960, the first Arts & Riverwoods was held.
An art exhibition of juried artists whose art was shown
in private homes throughout the village over a single
weekend. It’s purpose was to raise funds to pay off the
$20,000 legal expenses the RRA had occurred in the
long court battle over lot size. With $50 funding from
RRA and Norma Conedera as the chairman of the first
show, it surprised nearly everyone involved by raising
$2,000 toward paying off the legal fee debt. Within
a few more years, the entire debt was paid by
12proceeds from Arts & Riverwoods, and the show became
the fund-raising committee of the Riverwoods Residents CLIMATE
Association (RRA) which incorporated as a non-profit JUSTICE
AND
corporation in the state of Illinois in 1958. HEALING
The original RRA committee consisted of a representative
from each section of Riverwoods (approximately 20
residents) and its mission was to be the conduit between 38th Annual
the residents and the Village Board of Trustees. With
Smith Nature Symposium:
the establishment of the popular Arts & Riverwoods,
the committee could now raise funds and look at other
community projects.
Climate Justice & Healing
Programming Now Through October
Arts & Riverwoods funds bought 11 acres of land along
Riverwoods Road for $11,000. The Village passed a
resolution in 1963 legally vacating the land and forever
holding it for public use.
Arts & Riverwoods funds paid the $60,000 bill for the
5 acres the Village Hall occupies on Portwine and the
building itself (the relocated Izaak Walton League log
Masters of Ceremonies:
cabin lodge). Bill Kurtis and Donna La Pietra
Proceeds from annual Arts & Riverwoods shows have also
been used for the development of bike paths and many
other worthwhile community projects in Riverwoods. The
Village Hall was enhanced with a large trillium painting
in the meeting room and a metal deer sculpture for the
2021 Environmental Leadership
grounds. And back then the proceeds paid for new signs at
all entrances to the Village. Award Recipient
Over a span of 40 years, proceeds have also been used for Winona LaDuke
art scholarships, art education and art purchase awards “Let us be the ancestors our
for local schools, libraries, community centers, hospitals, descendants will thank.”
etc. Proceeds funded Arts & Riverwoods Scholarships given
at Senior Awards Night to deserving, talented art students
LIVE-STRE AMED AT 7 PM
at Deerfield and Stevenson High Schools to help further
SATURDAY, OCTOBER 2
their art education.
The RRA Today – The RRA has organized and hosted an Join the call for change.
annual village clean up day, plant sale and community The 38th Annual Smith Nature Symposium
BBQ, taken responsibility for funding the caucus, and explores climate justice and healing through
provides village vehicle stickers for residents. the power of community. Learn from artists,
Over the years, the RRA has offered Riverwoods residents, scientists, leaders, and activists during this
older and younger, recent and long-time residents, series of programs, exhibitions, and concerts
an opportunity to bond together into a “community”. running through October. Help our community
Unfortunately, due to a lack of volunteers over the recent emerge from the pandemic with collective
years, the RRA only hosts the plant sale (although not in strength, empathy, and renewed passion for
2020 and 2021 due to the pandemic). the people and nature we love.
Wouldn’t it be wonderful if we could resurrect our FOR A FULL EVENT SCHEDULE
previous RRA activities, and build community with new AND SPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNITIES, GO TO
resident volunteers and their ideas. SMITHNATURESYMPOSIUM.ORG
13IN THE KITCHEN WITH GALE GAND
lemon zest, salt, and baking powder
and beat together until the batter is
well mixed. Add the flour alternating
with the milk, mixing on low till
combined. Spread the mixture in the
loaf pan, pushing it into the corners.
Bake the cake in the oven until risen,
golden brown, and a toothpick or
bamboo skewer inserted in the center
comes out clean, 45-55 minutes.
Meanwhile, make the drizzle by
whisking together the lemon juice and
In the Kitchen
powdered sugar.
mixing bowl in the saucepan, with the
bowl’s base resting above – not in – Remove the cake from the oven and
the simmering water (pour out some let cool 5 minutes. Poke holes in the
with Pastry Chef water if necessary). Cook, whisking
occasionally, until the mixture is
thickened and custardy, about 10
cake top every ½ inch with a skewer.
Pour the drizzle over the cake while
Gale Gand
it’s still warm. Leave the cake until
minutes. cooled, about 45 minutes, then lift it
out of the tin, wrap it tightly and store
Meanwhile, half-fill a large bowl
at least two days (if your family will
Lemon Curd with ice and cover with cold water.
wait that long-mine won’t). Peel off
Raspberry Blossoms Remove the bowl with the custard in
it from the hot water and whisk in the
the parchment paper before serving.
The best part of Lemon Drizzle Cake
Makes 12 butter until melted. Rest the bottom
is the end pieces.
of the bowl in the ice bath and let
1 piece ready-made pie crust
cool, folding the mixture occasionally
1 recipe Lemon Curd
to cool and thicken it.
½ pint raspberries
Powdered sugar
Using a daisy shaped cookie cutter Lemon Drizzle Cake
3-inches in diameter, cut out flowers 12 tablespoons unsalted butter,
of pie dough and gently push them at room temperature
into a mini muffin tin. Bake at 400 1 cup sugar Gale Gand is a pastry chef and was a
degrees for 9 – 12 minutes, till 2 eggs founder and partner in the Michelin two-star
golden brown. Let cool. Using a pastry Grated zest of 2 lemons restaurant, Tru, in Chicago. She hosted Food
bag, fill with Lemon Curd and top ½ salt Network’s long running show “Sweet Dreams”,
with a raspberry. Dust with powdered 1½ teaspoons baking powder is the author of eight cook books, and worked
sugar if desired. ¼ cup milk with Julia Child on her book and PBS series,
1¼ cups flour “Baking with Julia”. Gale teaches cooking
Lemon Curd
classes all over the country and is an artisanal
2 eggs For the drizzle
soda pop maker producing Gale’s Root Beer
½ cup sugar Juice of 2 lemons
which is sold nationally. She has received two
Freshly grated zest of ½ lemon 1 cup icing sugar
1/3 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice James Beard Awards, has been inducted into
(from 2 to 3 lemons) 3 ¾ x 7 ¾ x 2 ½ inch loaf pan the American Academy of Chefs and Chicago
2 tablespoons unsalted butter (4 cup capacity) Chefs Hall of Fame and was schooled in Paris
at La Varenne. Gale appears at many food
Bring about 2 inches of water to a Heat the oven to 350ºF and set the and wine festivals across the country and
simmer in a large saucepan. In a rack in the middle of the oven. Line is a professional Pie and Food Competition
mixer fitted with a whisk attachment a loaf pan with parchment paper. In Judge. She is the mother of three and plays
(or using a hand mixer), whip the a mixer with a paddle attachment, the ukulele. Fun fact-She once made a Peach
eggs and sugar together until very cream the butter, add the sugar and Cobbler for Aretha Franklin. For more info on
light yellow and fluffy. Mix in the beat until fluffy, about a minute. Gale go to: www.galegand.com.
lemon juice and lemon zest. Rest the Add the eggs one at a time, then the
14AROUND THE VILLAGE
BRUSHWOOD CENTER
Riverwoods Coyotes Kids’ Band CALL FOR ART:
Rocked the Neighborhood Our Future: Youth Perspectives
on The Environment
By Mitch Kranitz
It all started with a post on NextDoor, the community-
based social media port as a local mom asked whether
there were any kids in Riverwoods that might be Across the world, youth are rising up in defense of
interested in starting a rock and roll band. our shared planet. From youth-led organizations like
Zero Hour, the U.S. Climate Strike, and the Sunrise
Three young Riverwoods musicians - Katherine (Katya) Movement, young climate activists are leading marches,
Dikin (age 12) on bass guitar. Anthony (Antosha) rallies, summits, and lobby days. Young leaders are
Dikin (age 10.5) on drums and Milo Kranitz (age 10) building strong coalitions across sectors, borders, and
on electric guitar - met with their parents and quickly demographics, demanding that our government, and
identified a few songs that they knew how to play. The governments around the world, take action on climate.
first rehearsal happened shortly afterwards. Wonderfully To celebrate and elevate these youth voices, Brushwood
off-key with each player bringing their own interpretation Center is creating the “Our Future: Youth Perspectives
to the same song, it was clear that these guys needed on the Environment '' exhibition. We invite young artists
a bit more cohesion to polish their chosen set list: in the Chicago region, ages 12 - 22, to submit work
“Believer” by Imagine Dragons, “Seven Nation Army” by reflecting on climate justice and healing through the
the White Stripes, and “Iron Man” by Black Sabbath. power of community. Artists may explore many themes
within this topic area including nature, environmental
Sasha Brusin, a local guitarist, instructor and band justice, climate change, and/or their own experiences
director, along with Mich Shirey another local guitar engaging in the outdoors.
instructor, agreed to take over weekly coordination of
band activities and individual instruction to Katya and We are accepting work in all media and styles that
feature or are in some way related to this theme,
Milo. On June 17, 2021, the Riverwoods Coyotes made
including paintings, drawings, sculpture, digital artwork,
their debut in front of over fifty guests.
video, performances, poetry, and music.
The Riverwoods Coyotes will be seeking additional band
Submission Deadline: September 1, 2021
members for the fall season. Participants must be ages
Artist Notification: September 3, 2021
11-15, with a minimum of two years of private lessons in
Drop off: Accepted artwork should be dropped off at
the instrument of their choice, ability to collaborate and
Brushwood Center between September 8 and the 15.
meet once per week for band rehearsals and to continue
Exhibition Opening and Celebration: Sunday, September
lessons with their private instructors to work on the
19, Art Reception from 1-2 p.m.; Family Concert from
band’s chosen repertoire. If you are interested in joining,
2-3 p.m.
check out how to register for an audition at tinyurl.com/
kidsrockband. For more details: www.brushwoodcenter.org
15PRESORTED
STANDARD
US POSTAGE
PA I D
Village of Riverwoods PERMIT #63
300 Portwine Road DEERFIELD, IL
Riverwoods, Illinois 60015-3898
60015-3898
VILLAGE OF RIVERWOODS
SAVE THE DATE!
July 31, 2021
11:30am-2pm
Celebration Honoring
Mayor Emeritus John Norris
& Campus Grand Opening
Food Provided by
Cheesie's Food Truck
Activities for KIds and Adults
FUN! FUN! FUN!You can also read
