Buffalo Grove honors public safety employees
The Buffalo Grove village board this week recognized several police officers and firefighters, with Frank Horbus named 2011 Buffalo Grove Police Department Employee of the Year, an honor sponsored by Buffalo Grove Rotary.
Horbus is a 12-year veteran and currently works in the department’s traffic unit.
In the presentation by Rob Seitz from Rotary, Horbus was recognized for his work ethic, initiative and productivity, as well as for being a team player involved in organizing and setting up training both for himself and others in the department.
Seitz said that in the area of driver’s education, he has given a number of public presentations and made local public safety radio announcements. Within the department, he serves on the technology, budget and records management committees. He has also created an iPod app that reduces the amount of paper applications. He is a firearms defense tactics rapid deployment and emergency vehicle instructor.
He is a member of the Lake County Major Crash Assistance Team, teaches at the Northwestern University Center for Public Safety, and is a co-leader of a regional motorcycle proficiency training program and conducts training for a number of police departments. On the state level, he was involved in implementing a statewide civilian motorcycle safety program.
“It’s really an honor to serve. Thank you very much,” Horbus said.
Effie Harris, an 11-year veteran assigned to the records division, got a special commendation for enthusiasm in her efforts to assist in computer technology issues within the agency.
Eight officers received DUI awards from the Illinois Department of Transportation: Brian Hansen, Crystal Bowen, Derek Hawkins, Ashley Krozel, Brian Spolar, Dan Dimeler, Cpl. Anthony Moran and Anthony Turano.
Sgt. Robert Heer, who recently retired after serving Buffalo Grove since 1978, was honored for his long service, including his work with students at Buffalo Grove High School as liaison officer, and with senior citizens at the Alcott Center as a crime prevention officer.
Village President Jeffrey Braiman read a proclamation, citing Heer’s “character, integrity and professionalism.”
On the fire side, George Michehl, deputy fire marshal, received the 2011 Excellence in Fire & Life Safety Award, sponsored by the International Code Council and the International Association of Fire Chiefs Fire Life Safety Section. The award honors those who have dedicated themselves to saving lives and property through the development of codes, fire prevention practices and leadership techniques.
Fire Chief Terry Vavra said that Michehl has been an advocate for sprinklers for all buildings, as well as a strong opponent of novelty lighters, fighting for a state ban to keep them out of the hands of children.