Crossing guards at pool may be reassigned
Since Sunset Pool opened in 1995, there's been a crossing guard on Western Avenue at Cheever Street, making sure young swimmers from the neighborhood can get there safely.
But you may not see one there this summer, as the Geneva Park District thinks it can be handled otherwise.
Instead of a human being, staff members are thinking of installing a flashing-yellow-light pedestrian crossing signal, similar to one near Western Avenue Elementary School. The signal also would have a sign telling drivers to slow down to 20 mph when children are present.
Sheavoun Lambillotte, recreation and leisure superintendent, said it would be more cost-effective, as few children cross unaccompanied. Children in the district's day camps, which use Dryden Park on the east side of Western, are accompanied by counselors.
"Even then (in 1995) I don't know how many young kids were crossing without their parents," Lambillotte said.
The crossing guards, who also work as "hall monitors" year-round for other district activities, would likely be given other duties.
Dino reminder
Monday is the last day to see the "Dinosaur Days" exhibit of a replica of the skull of a Tyrannosaurus rex named Sue, at Peck Farm Park, 38W100 Kaneville Road. Hours are 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. today, Saturday and Monday.
Green for green thumbs:
The Geneva Garden Club is offering a $2,000 scholarship this year for Geneva residents who intend to continue their education in fields of study relating to horticulture, conservation, agriculture, outdoor education and certain types of engineering.
Scholarship applications are available in the guidance office of Geneva High School and at private and local junior colleges Geneva residents might attend. Applications may also be obtained by contacting Ruth O'Brien at (630) 845-1656. Applications are due March 30. The winner will be announced in April.
New water soon
Really. Any day now.
Geneva expects to turn the faucet on at its new water treatment plant momentarily. It's just tweaking a few things.
City officials promise to send out a press release to newspapers, notices to users, and post an announcement on the city Web site when it finally happens.
The new plant, at Peck and Kaneville roads, features a reverse-osmosis procedure that reduces the hardness of the water. Patrons should not need to use as much water-softener salt once it is up and running.