Lake County briefs
Route 83 contract
Work is expected to get under way next month on a major improvement of Route 83 from Petite Lake Road in Lake Villa, through Antioch to the Wisconsin border. State Sen. Michael Bond announced Wednesday the Illinois Department of Transportation awarded a $13.4 million contract to Lake County Grading Company for the more than four-mile stretch. Plans call for widening the road, adding a turn lane, improving the drainage system and modernizing traffic signals. The project was announced by Bond last fall. Work is scheduled to be completed in October 2010.
Warren board member quits
Veteran Warren Township High School District 121 board member Roberta Pfeiffer has quit her position. Jeanette Thommes, another board member at Gurnee-based District 121, read Pfeiffer's resignation letter at a meeting Tuesday night. Pfeiffer, 58, was appointed to the Warren board in 1998 and was sent back to her post in three elections. Pfeiffer was re-elected in 2007. Pfeiffer said District 121 board members should not have individual agendas, according to the letter read by Thommes. Warren board President John Anderson said while they did not always agree on issues, he appreciated Pfeiffer's service to the school district.
Adopt a Highway
Volunteers from business, civic, social, youth and not-for-profit organizations can adopt a highway from the Lake County Division of Transportation. The program allows groups to work together as a team, twice a year, to pick up litter on both sides of their adopted stretch of county highway and make a personal contribution for a cleaner environment. The county has more than 300 miles of roads, and welcomes volunteer help. High-visibility vests, trash bags and safety information are provided. Call (847) 377-7400 for an application through Aug. 31. Participants must be at least 10 years old, and those under 18 require adult supervision. Visit the transportation section of the county Web site at www.lakecountyil.gov.
Food pantry in need
The Vernon Township food pantry is reporting a surge in requests for help due to the decline in the economy. The pantry is in need of nonperishable food, such as cans of fruit, soup and peanut butter and jelly. Donations can be made at the Vernon administration building, 3050 N. Main St., Buffalo Grove, from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. weekdays.
Men's Card Club in Lindenhurst
The Lindenhurst Park District is hoping to start a Men's Card Club. If you enjoy playing cards and talking about the old days and current events, this is for you. All card games are welcome. If interested, call Jo at (847) 356-6011 on Monday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. The club will meet Tuesdays from 1 to 4 p.m. in the Senior Room at the park district building at 2200 E. Grass Lake Road.