Long time Vernon Hills senior group president honored

Vernon Hills resident Edward Sychta recently was honored by village officials for his long service to the Vernon Hills Seniors Organization.

Following is an edited version of the proclamation given to Sychta to honor his retirement at the Feb. 19 village board meeting:

The Organization was established in 1995 to assist the village board with serving the interests of the senior citizens by providing advice and recommendations as to the needs, desires, and goals of all senior citizens within Vernon Hills.

Sychta began his term as president about Jan. 1, 1997, and during his tenure played a pivotal role in the success of the organization, overseeing the growth of its membership and increase in activities and events.

He was involved in all aspects of the organization and actively participated as liaison between the organization, the village board and staff.

His leadership and guidance were paramount in establishing a relationship with Vernon Hills High School and Stevenson High School, which led to many events and activities being held to honor and support the seniors of our community.

Under Sychta’s leadership, the Seniors Organization, through its fundraising efforts, was able to give back to the community through donations to A Safe Place/Lake County Crisis Center, other not-for-profits groups and charities.

He coordinated the move to the new Senior Center facility in April 2002, which resulted in increased membership and activities that served the seniors in Vernon Hills.

As his hard work and dedication to the Vernon Hills Senior Organization will be missed, Mayor Roger L. Byrne and the board of trustees express their sincere appreciation to Sychta for his years of faithful and dedicated service to the senior organization and the village.