Oct 7, 2025

Thefts / e-bikes / Arts & Crafts

 Recent police activity:

The following items were recently posted by the Buffalo Grove Police

Retail Theft -- A male subject stole $79 in merchandise from Woodman’s Market, 1550 E. Deerfield Pkwy. Police say this investigation is ongoing.

Vandalism – Police say unknown offender(s) graffitied the top floor of the garage 2150 E Lake Cook Rd., which is the Riverwalk 1 office building. Details of the vandalism were not provided.

The sign said stop --- But that didn’t stop a 30-year-old Des Plaines woman who blew past a school bus while it was loading/unloading in the 700 Ridge Ave. You'd think she would know better, but, as it has been said “wait, there’s more.”  She was also ticketed for driving on a suspended license, and operating an uninsured motor vehicle. She’s due in court Nov. 14.

Busy month – The Buffalo Grove police listed 146 incidents during September. Included in their efforts to serve and protect, were

            ** Two counts of battery.

            ** Four reports of burglary: one in the 1400 block of west Dundee Road, one in the 1500 block of west Dundee Road, one in the 300 block of west Half Day Road and one in the 400 block of Raphael Ave., which was the only residential burglary listed

            ** Five reports of criminal damage to property in the following locations: the 200 block of north Buffalo Grove Road, the200 block of Sandalwood Road, the 300 block of McHenry Road, the 0 – 10 block of McHenry Road, and the 800 block of Trace Drive.

            ** Four reports of disorderly conduct, which includes harassment by electronic device.

            ** 16 driving violations

            ** Four DUI violations

            ** Five reports of fraud, which include bad checks, online theft by deception, and “false personation” of public officials and employees.

            ** 80 contacts of incidents that are listed as “local code” including well-being checks, reports of suspicious persons, reports of lost or found property, customer-manager disputes, accidental damage to property and public complaints about various issues, such as dumping or littering.

            ** 20 reports of theft, which include retail thefts and thefts from residences which include package thefts.

In Other Community News

Board told regulating e-bikes is not an easy task

            Regulating e-mobility devices, such as electric scooters and bikes is not a simple matter.

            That’s what Buffalo Grove Village Board members learned during Monday night’s Committee of the Whole meeting.

            Deputy Police Chief Tara Anderson said the myriad of devices and the variance of how they perform make it a challenge to regulate.

            E-bikes, Anderson noted, fall into three categories designated by the state. The categories include:

            ** Class 1, which Features pedal-assist only, meaning the motor only provides assistance when you are pedaling. It cuts out once the bike reaches 20 mph. 

            ** Class 2, which includes a throttle that allows the rider to pedal without pedaling. The motor provides assistance up to 20 mph. 

            ** Class 3, also known as speed pedelecs, these are pedal-assist only, but the motor assistance continues up to 28 mph. They must also be equipped with a speedometer. Riders of this class must be at least 16 years old.

            Anderson said that while the village does not have guidelines, other jurisdictions, including the Park District, area forest preserves and school districts do.

            Without village guidelines, Buffalo Grove Police cannot issue citations. If the rider of an e-bike violates a state law, such as riding on a state roadway like Dundee Road, Half Day Road or Rt. 83, they can receive a ticket.

            Anderson said that while e-bikes are allowed on roadways, riders must follow traffic laws.  She pointed out that e-bikes are not allowed on sidewalks.

            Should the village develop a local ordinance establishing guidelines for e-bikes, Anderson said there are four key components that should be included:  Safety, clear legal definitions, ability to enforce and support for mobility options.

            The possibility of a state law governing e-bikes and scooters in the near future seems remote. If the state legislature gives the thumbs up to a law during the 2026 session, chances are it would not go into effect until Jan. 1, 2027.

            Additional coverage by The Daily Herald can be found here.

Vernon Twp. Republicans rebuff Democrats’ claims on shutdown

            The Vernon Township Republicans (VTR) have taken issue with statements by Democratic representatives regarding the shutdown of the Federal government.

            “The “Schumer Shutdown” has begun and our local Democrat representatives want you to think this is a Republican shutdown, Vernon Township Republican Chairman Jay Swidler, says.

            “It is not a Republican shutdown,” he says.

            Swidler says Democrats like Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer and House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries are attempting to use this moment to try to add $1.5 trillion in spending and remove provisions recently passed in the One Big Beautiful reconciliation package.

            “Our so-called “leaders” are liars. We are told that it is illegal for non-citizens to receive benefits, but we know differently,” Swidler noted in his statement. “The non-citizens here in Illinois have been given generous welfare benefits, “free” housing and “free” healthcare courtesy of we the taxpayers. And the “candidates” who are running for our 9 and 10 Illinois congressional offices currently spend their time rioting and harassing law enforcement in Broadview to fight for the “rights” of these illegal aliens who have taken so much from our communities - most notably the poorest amongst us with the fewest resources.”

            He says that If local LEOs (law enforcement agencies) were allowed to cooperate with ice and just hand over the criminals they are looking for, none of this drama or these “collateral arrests” would be necessary - a fact that is either lost on these perennial pot stirrers or is precisely the point of their “protests”.

            Swidler contends that “Schumer & Co. are shutting down the government to appease the far- left fringe of the Democratic party because they know they have lost nearly every other voting bloc that used to be in the middle.”

            He adds that these voters have chosen to walk away from a party they no longer recognize as the platform continues to defend the rights of criminals over those of law-abiding citizens. “Seven years of (Illinois Gov. JB) Pritzker has given us front row seats to what our future will be if we allow the Democrat party to continue their campaign of deception.

            “Illinois is no longer safe, affordable or prospering because of the direct impact of super majority Democrat lawmakers in Springfield which give us things like the Safe T Act and never-ending taxes and fees on every good and service families and small businesses need to survive.”

            According to Swidler, Vernon Township Republicans are hosting a panel discussion of the One Big Beautiful Bill at 5:30 p.m. on Thursday, Oct. 9 at 2900 N. Main St. Buffalo Grove. Voters are invited to representatives from Wirepoints, Americans for Prosperity and Illinois Policy.

            Later this month, on Wednesday, Oct. 29, the Libertyville American Legion will host a community forum at 715 Milwaukee Ave., Libertyville. Daniel Shane (Chief Judge 19 Judicial Circuit of Illinois) will speak about the Safe-T-Act.

            “I hope many voters in Lake County will take advantage of these amazing opportunities to find out more about awful Democrat policies and how they are directly impacted by them. Democrats hold the super majority in Illinois. Republicans have no fingerprints on these disasters,” Swidler says.

Arts & crafts fair Saturday

            The Park District is holding its annual Arts & Crafts Fair from 10 a/m. to 3 p.m. on Saturday, Oct. 11 the Community Arts Center, 25 N. McHenry Rd.

            A variety of local crafters and business owners sell original handmade items for the holidays or for your home. For more information, contact Aly Stanczak at 847-850-2105.

‘Howl-O-Ween’ event Oct. 18

            Dogs and their owners can enjoy a fall day at the park at the Park District’s Howl-O-Ween Canine Costume Contest from 10:45 to 11:45 a.m. on Saturday, Oct. 18 at Willow Stream Park, 651 Old Checker.

            Prizes and awards will be given to the most unique and creative costumes; categories include best costume and best family-themed costume. Day of registrations will be accepted. The event is free and will be near the Dan Schimmel Pavilion. For more information, contact Mike Pfeiffer at 847-850-2108.

Used book sale Oct. 11

            The Indian Trails Library is holding a “Bag O' Books” used book sale from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday, Oct. 11.

            Residents can fill a bag of books for $5. Bags will be provided. Due to limited space, the use of ISBN scanners is only allowed from noon to 2 p.m. The event is hosted by the Foundation for the Indian Trails Library. All proceeds benefit the library, which is located at 355 Schoenbeck Rd., Wheeling.

BGPD collecting pet supplies

            The Buffalo Grove Police Department is collecting pet supplies this month to support A Safe Place domestic violence shelter.

            A Safe Place recently expanded its services to provide a dedicated space for pets while survivors of domestic violence and human trafficking transition to new housing. The police department is collecting essential pet items to help the comfort and care of pets while their owners seek refuge.

            Items being accepted include: cat litter; dog and cat food; dog and cat toys; leashes; collars; bedding; grooming supplies; potty pads; treats; and waste bags. Items must be new and unopened.

            Donations can be dropped off 24 hours a day in the police department lobby, 46 Raupp Blvd., Buffalo Grove.

Township offering holiday giving opportunities

            Vernon Township is once again inviting residents to spread cheer by participating in the Holiday Sponsor-A-Family Programs.

            Community members can choose to donate a Thanksgiving basket, a holiday meal, and/or holiday gifts to provide support to local families in need. Thanksgiving baskets usually include non-perishable foods and a grocery gift card for a turkey or fresh produce.

            Winter Holiday Sponsors are provided with a holiday gift wish list that may include clothing, household essentials, or other necessities.

            A new feature this year gives donors an opportunity to provide holiday meals (in addition to Thanksgiving baskets or gifts, or in lieu of them). After signing up, the Township’s Food Pantry staff will match sponsors with individuals and families and provide anonymous details along with suggested items.

            For more information, click here.

Trick or Treat hours, events set

            Trick-or-Treat hours will be from 3-8 p.m. on Oct. 31. In addition to trick or treaters going door-to-door, the Fire Department will also once again host a Trick-or-Trick Drive Thru event from 2 to 4 p.m. on Oct. 31 at Fire Station 26, 1051 Highland Grove Drive.

 

Need a Reason to Celebrate?

Oct. 8

Emergency Nurses Day

International Newspaper Carrier Day

National Stop Bullying Day

National Bring Your Teddy Bear to School Day

Oct. 9

International Beer and Pizza Day

National Moldy Cheese Day

Curious Events Day

Oct. 10

Local Government Day

National Angel Food Cake Day

World Egg Day

Oct. 11

I Love Yarn Day

National Chess Day

National Spread Joy Day

Oct. 12

Day of Respect For Cultural Diversity

National Freethought Day

Harry Potter Book Day

Oct. 13

International Skeptics Day

National Kick Butt Day

National M&M Day

National Transfer Money to Your Son Day

Oct. 14

Be Bald and Be Free Day

National Face Your Fears Day

National I Love You Day

Oct. 15

Global Handwashing Day

I Love Lucy Day

National Cheese Curd Day

Oct. 16

National Boss's Day

National Liqueur Day

Global Cat Day

Oct. 17

National Clean Your Virtual Desktop Day

National Mulligan Day

National Pasta Day

National Pay Back a Friend Day

Oct. 18

International Raw Milk Cheese Appreciation Day

National Chocolate Cupcake Day

National Mashed Potato Day

 

 

The usual stuff…

· Got News?-- If you have news about your club, school, church, synagogue or other community organization, please submit news, information and story ideas to BuffaloGroveNews@Gmail.com.Articles should include a contact name, email and phone number. Commentary articles are also welcome. They should be limited to 350 words and should include contact information as noted above. All submissions may be edited for style, spelling, and libelous content.

· Subscribe by email -- If you want to receive the Buffalo Grove Report (Buffalo Grove News & Information) by email, send your email address to BuffaloGroveNews@Gmail.com.

· If you didn’t know -- The Buffalo Grove Report (Buffalo Grove News and Info), is locally and independently produced by Buffalo Grove resident Stan Zoller. A longtime journalist and journalism educator, Zoller covers Buffalo Grove and monitors news and information about the village, its schools, park district and community events. The Buffalo Grove Report is not affiliated with any municipal body. Zoller is a member of the Society of Professional Journalists and the Chicago Headline Club. He is also on the Board of the Citizen Advocacy Center.

Oct 1, 2025

Schneider, Schakowsky address shutdown

         Congressional representatives Brad Schneider (D-10) and Jan Schakowsky (D-9) ripped the Republican party and Trump administration for their handling of government shutdown, which went into effect at midnight.

            In his statement, Schneider said “President Trump and Congressional Republicans just purposefully shut the government down – putting our economy, security, and critical government services at risk. They did so simply to protect their cruel healthcare cuts and make it harder for working people to afford their everyday needs.

            “Republicans have full control of the House, Senate, and White House. While Democrats stayed in Washington to seek a solution, Republicans took an extended vacation at home. This shutdown could have easily been averted, and the responsibility for it lies solely on President Trump and the Republicans’ shoulders.

            “There is still a way out of this mess. I call on Congressional Republicans to come back to D.C., put the American people over their extreme agenda, and negotiate in good faith a bipartisan budget that lowers costs and prevents a full-blown healthcare crisis.”

            In her statement, Schakowsky said “This is an utter failure of Republican leadership — it will substantially impact our communities and our economy and will drive up health care costs for millions of people.

            “This shutdown was avoidable. It will hurt real people right here in the 9th District. Federal employees will miss their paychecks, families will experience delays in necessary services, and small businesses that rely on federal permits, loans, and contracts will suffer.

            “I will vote for a bipartisan, negotiated budget that not only protects the vital programs we depend on, like Medicaid, disaster relief, telehealth access, and food assistance, but also extends health insurance tax credits and protects Americans from price increases. However, I refuse to rubber stamp a Republican proposal that continues to give tax breaks to their wealthy donors while families pay more to visit the doctor.”

            Schneider and  Schakowsky both serve portions of Buffalo Grove.

Smash and grab / Student-run village / Trick or Treat hours

 Recent police activity:

The following items were recently posted by the Buffalo Grove Police

** Retail Thefts -- A man was apprehended after stealing groceries from Woodman’s Market. Police say he was issued an adjudication citation for retail theft and given a trespass warning. In a second incident at Woodman’s, police say a woman stole $276.85 worth of groceries. She was identified by police and issued an adjudication citation for Retail Theft, and given a trespass warning.

** Smash and Grab Burglaries: Three businesses were burglarized Sept. 14 by having their windows broken. Police say “miscellaneous merchandise and currency was stolen” and that the investigation is continuing. The businesses are located at 314 W Half Day Rd. 497 E Dundee Rd. and 1505 W Dundee Rd

** Weapons charge filed: A 33-year-old Bartlett man is due in Cook County Circuit Court in Rolling Meadows Oct. 9 on charges that he was in possession of brass knuckles which were discovered by officers during a traffic stop.

** Stolen car – A resident in the 1400 block of Rolling Hills Court reported that his BMW was stolen from inside the garage. The vehicle was recovered in Zion.

** Fleeing and eluding -- A male subject refused to stop for police for a moving violation near Lake Cook and Weiland roads. No charges have been filed. Police say this investigation is ongoing.

In Other Community News

‘Board’ approves enhanced fire safety gear

            The Village Board Monday night voted in favor of a proposal by the Buffalo Grove Fire Department for and updated life safety rope and hardware. The purchase will, according to the proposal, “allow for the purchase of rope and associated rescue hardware to meet the current safety standard”.

            The proposal was one of four heard by members of the Board. However, the Board didn’t include Village President Eric Smith, Village Clerk Jan Sirabian or any of the six village board members.

            That’s because the board consisted of 18 students from Buffalo Grove and Stevenson High School who participated in the annual Civics Forum coordinated by Sirabian.

            In addition to the Fire Department’s request, the student board also considered a proposal for a 75-inch touch monitor by the Community Development Department, live translation earbuds by the Police Department, and a 3D EnviroScape drinking water/wastewater & watershed educational model by the Department of Public Works.

Pictured above: Fire Chief Larry Kane, Stevenson High School student Carmen McCasey (ASHS) and Deputy Fire Chief Shawn Collins discuss the Fire Department's proposal.

Trick or Treat hours, events set

            Trick-or-Treat hours will be from 3-8 p.m. on Oct. 31. In addition to trick or treaters going door-to-door, the Fire Department will also once again host a Trick-or-Trick Drive Thru event from 2 to 4 p.m. on Oct. 31 at Fire Station 26, 1051 Highland Grove Drive.

School route input sought

            The Public Works Department is planning an engineering study for schools in Buffalo Grove through the Illinois Safe Routes to School Program. To facilitate this, the village is seeking input from parents and guardians to indicate how their student(s) get to and from school.

            The village wants to know if students walk, bike, ride the bus or are driven to school. The survey takes 5 to 10 minutes and is available at this link.. All responses are anonymous and confidential.

Perk up!

            In recognition of national coffee day on Oct. 3, Buffalo Grove Police officers will be at the McDonald’s, at 1200 N Arlington Heights Road, from 9 - 10 a.m. serving up coffee with a smile.

            Residents can bring their public safety questions or concerns, or just stop in to chat with officers and enjoy a free cup of coffee, compliments of the Buffalo Grove Police Department and McDonald’s.

Village czars to speak at Chamber event

            The Buffalo Grove-Lincolnshire Chamber of Commerce is sponsoring its State of the Villages luncheon on Tuesday, Oct. 7.

            The luncheon will feature presentations from Lincolnshire Mayor Elizabeth Brandt and Buffalo Grove Village President Eric Smith. Both will discuss growth, development, and upcoming initiatives in their respective communities.

            The event is sponsored by 25N Coworking Buffalo Grove in its conference center at 475 Half Day Road in Lincolnshire  

            Space is limited. Registration closes on Oct. 2. Registration is available at this link.

BGPD holds successful fundraiser

            The BG Police Department raised more $5,000 for Special Olympics Illinois athletes at its recent bowling event. The department cited sponsors of the event, including The Continental Restaurant & Banquets, Galbi House, Hillside Service, Long Grove Confectionery, OLIMP, Roy Mason of Edward Jones in Buffalo Grove, Liftomatic, Jack M. Shapiro and SAFX.

Library observes national Hispanic Heritage Month

            The Indian Trails Public Library District is celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month through Oct. 15 with a variety of cultural programs and displays.

            Residents can visit the 2-sided book display in the lobby for a book to check out and can visit The Branch in October and for a short story in Spanish from the Story Cube.

            Patrons can also add a photo of a loved one for the Day of the Dead Ofrenda which will be on display from Oct. 27 through Monday, Nov. 3. Photos can be submitted here. The deadline for photo submissions is Thursday, Oct. 23. For additional information, contact Wheeling Social Services Division at 847-469-2606 or email humanservices@wheelingil.gov.

Monthly memory café offered

            Memory Café, a free, monthly event held at the Alcott Center, 530 Bernard, provides individuals living with memory loss and their caregivers an opportunity for connection and conversation. Each cafe features an activity and socialization time.

            Memory Café is sponsored by Belmont Village Senior Living Buffalo Grove, Buffalo Grove Community Foundation, Buffalo Grove Park District, Buffalo Grove Police Department, Indian Trails Public Library District, Sunrise Senior Living and Vernon Area Public Library.

            The next Memory Café is Oct. 23 from 2 - 3 p.m. Registration is required. Find more information and register here.

RV restrictions in place

            Residents who own a recreational vehicle (RV) or trailer, are reminded that as of Oct. 1, RVs and may only be parked on a driveway for a maximum of 15 days through May 14.

            RV and trailer storage guidelines are available at this link.

Need a Reason to Celebrate?

Oct. 1

International Coffee Day

International Day of Older Persons

International Walk to School Day

National Coffee with a Cop Day

Oct. 2

National Custodian Day

National Fried Scallops Day

National Name Your Car Day

Oct. 3

Kids Music Day

National Body Language Day

World Smile Day

Oct. 4

Improve Your Office Day

Kindness to Animal Day

National Taco Day

Oct. 5

National Be Nice Day

National Get Funky Day

World Teachers' Day

Oct. 6

Mad Hatter Day

National Child Health Day

National Noodle Day

Oct. 7

National Fruit at Work Day

World Cotton Day

National Inner Beauty Day

Oct. 8

Emergency Nurses Day

International Newspaper Carrier Day

National Bring Your Teddy Bear to School Day

 

 

The usual stuff…

· Got News?-- If you have news about your club, school, church, synagogue or other community organization, please submit news, information and story ideas to BuffaloGroveNews@Gmail.com.Articles should include a contact name, email and phone number. Commentary articles are also welcome. They should be limited to 350 words and should include contact information as noted above. All submissions may be edited for style, spelling, and libelous content.

· Subscribe by email -- If you want to receive the Buffalo Grove Report (Buffalo Grove News & Information) by email, send your email address to BuffaloGroveNews@Gmail.com.

· If you didn’t know -- The Buffalo Grove Report (Buffalo Grove News and Info), is locally and independently produced by Buffalo Grove resident Stan Zoller. A longtime journalist and journalism educator, Zoller covers Buffalo Grove and monitors news and information about the village, its schools, park district and community events. The Buffalo Grove Report is not affiliated with any municipal body. Zoller is a member of the Society of Professional Journalists and the Chicago Headline Club. He is also on the Board of the Citizen Advocacy Center.

Sep 16, 2025

Disorderly conduct / Lake-Cook roadwork ending / Civics Forum ahead

 Recent police activity:

Thefts / e-bikes / Arts & Crafts

  Recent police activity: The following items were recently posted by the Buffalo Grove Police Retail Theft -- A male subject stole $79...