Briefs: Snow removal change

Geneva public works has changed its snow removal and salting practice. When snowfall is less than 1 inch, and plowing operations are not necessary, salt will be applied lightly to snow emergency routes, school areas, hills, curves and intersections that have stop signs. And secondary streets, cul-de-sacs, alleys and dead-end streets will receive less salt this year overall. Geneva does not mix sand in to stretch its salt because sand is not a de-icing agent, it damages the stormwater sewer system, it bounces off the pavement into the curb area and has to be cleaned up in the spring, according to the policy, which can be found on the city's Web site, geneva.il.us, under the "streets and sidewalks" page.

Sprawl book talk

Author Gina Olszowksi will lecture about her book, "Now Coming to a Town Near You," at noon today at the Geneva History Center, 113 S. Third St. Olszowksi's book tells the story of small towns that are being forever changed by sprawl. The story is told through the eyes and words of farmers, mayors, environmentalists and regular residents. Admission is $3 for nonmembers and $2 for members. You can bring a lunch; coffee and cookies will be provided.

Group gives $67K to schools

During American Education Week in November, the Geneva Academic Foundation presented Geneva School District with a check for $69,468.47. The items being funded by the grants include educational resources for parents, a digital microscope, yearbook cameras, laptop computers, a camcorder and microphone, pedometers, a computer-controlled engraving machine, hanging microphones for a cafeteria/auditorium stage and book browsers for classrooms.

Collection for pets

Fox Valley Park District has partnered with the Fox Valley Animal Welfare League to collect items for dogs and cats in the league's shelter. Items such as pet food and treats, harnesses, collars, leashes, grooming tools, toys, and cleaning and storage items are being accepted at Eola Community Center, 555 S. Eola Road, Aurora; Prisco Community Center, 150 W. Illinois Ave., Aurora; Vaughan Athletic Center, 2121 W. Indian Trail, Aurora; and the park district's administrative offices at 712 S. River St., Aurora. Call (630) 859-8606.