“Cutting-Edge Wastewater Researchers to Gather at 2013 WERF Research Forum,” Digital Journal
Topic: MWRD participation in the 8^th Annual Water Environment Research Foundation Research Forum
http://www.digitaljournal.com/pr/998728

“Preventing the Potential Poop-pocalypse Under Our Feet,” Chicagoist Blog
Topic: Increased investment in sewer upgrades and green infrastructure needed
http://chicagoist.com/2013/01/06/preventing_the_potential_poop-pocal.php

“Veeck park soccer fields ready to reopen,” Chicago Tribune
Topic: Hinsdale saves $10,000 by using MWRD biosolids to restore soccer fields
http://www.chicagotribune.com/news/local/suburbs/hinsdale/ct-tl-hinsdale-field-20130108,0,3285999.story

“Cook County in talks to fix its pension gap,” Chicago Tribune
Topic: Cook County may end up taking its own agreed-on pension plan to Springfield just as the MWRD did last year.
http://articles.chicagotribune.com/2013-01-06/news/ct-met-cook-county-pensions-0106-20130106_1_pension-fund-pension-gap-county-commissioner-bridget-gainer

“Cutting-Edge Wastewater Researchers to Gather at 2013 WERF Research Forum,” Seattle PI
Topic: Director of Monitoring & Research Dr. Thomas Granato speaking at the Water Environment Research Foundation’s 8^th Annual Research Forum.
http://www.seattlepi.com/business/press-releases/article/Cutting-Edge-Wastewater-Researchers-to-Gather-at-4168655.php

“River, Front and Center,” American Planning Association Magazine
Topic: Executive Director David St. Pierre interviewed for article on the Chicago River
Planning_mag_jan_2013_article1_highres.pdf

“From Rooftop Gardens to Deep Tunnels,” American Planning Association Magazine
Topic: Public and Intergovernmental Affairs Officer Allison Fore authored story on stormwater issues in Cook County
Planning_mag_jan_2013_article2_highres.pdf

“South, West sides mark MLK holiday early,” Chicago Tribune
Topic: Vice President Barbara McGowan pictured.
http://articles.chicagotribune.com/2013-01-13/news/ct-met-mlk-birthday-commemorations-20130114_1_bus-tour-interfaith-breakfast-mlk

“Chicago River’s ‘open sewer’ image going down the drain,” Chicago Sun-Times
Topic: The Chicago River is 70% treated water; the historic image of the river as an open sewer is no longer valid.
http://blogs.suntimes.com/backtalk/2013/01/chicago_river_open_sewer.html

“Chicago Wilderness panel sheds light on future of Chicago area waterways,” Polish Daily News
Topic: Commissioner Debra Shore and Executive Director David St. Pierre at 2012 Chicago Wilderness Congress.
12 1212_PolishDailyNews_Chicago Wilderness.pdf

“Chicago River reversal nothing to be concerned about, experts say,” Northwest Indiana Times
Topic: Reposting of Medill story; Executive Director David St. Pierre interviewed.
http://www.nwitimes.com/niche/shore/environment/chicago-river-reversal-nothing-to-be-concerned-about-experts-say/article_55ac675f-0828-52af-8338-94bc78e72eb1.html

“Local Voices Community Bulletin, Jan. 14-22," LaGrange Patch
Topic: Re-link to MWRD press release about the Dr. Martin Luther King Board resolution
http://lagrange.patch.com/articles/local-voices-best-blog-posts-of-the-week-jan-14-22

“MWRD Board elects Spyropoulos Chair of Finance,” The Hellenic News of America
Topic: MWRD’s Board of Commissioners unanimously elected Commissioner Mariyana Spyropoulos as Chairman of Finance during the first Board meeting of the new year on January 3, 2013.
http://www.hellenicnews.com/index.php/omogenia-a-national-issues/item/457-mwrd-board-elects-spyropoulos-chair-of-finance

;“Chicago River played a critical part in city's development,” Northwestern Univ. Medill Reports
Topic: Describes MWRD’s role in a historical account of the city of Chicago’s development.
http://news.medill.northwestern.edu/chicago/news.aspx?id=214797

“Chicago River flowing backwards would be least of region’s concerns,” Bloomberg News
Topic: MWRD Exec. Director David St. Pierre was interviewed for a national story about the future of the Chicago River’s health.
http://www.bloomberg.com/news/2013-01-31/chicago-river-flowing-backwards-would-be-least-of-region-s-concerns.html

“A Delicate Balance,” Northwest Indiana Times
Topic: A number of impacts beyond the control of Asian carp need to be considered when looking at the separation of the Great Lakes and Mississippi River watersheds.
http://www.nwitimes.com/business/local/a-delicate-balance/article_a203d415-208d-58e6-a02b-a3746d36575c.html?comment_form=true

“Wastewater treatment plant serving SE Side, south suburbs receives engineering award,” Northwest Indiana Times
Topic: Report based on MWRD press release.
http://www.nwitimes.com/news/local/illinois/chicago/wastewater-treatment-plant-serving-se-side-south-suburbs-receives-engineering/article_b19f75ac-536b-5c48-922f-fa3913350570.html

“MWRD Executive Director Participates on Storm Water Panel,” Storm Water Solutions
Topic: Reposting of MWRD press release.
http://www.estormwater.com/mwrd-executive-director-participates-storm-water-panel

“Evanston Receives $580,000 Grant to Rehab the Ladd Arboretum Trail,” Evanston Patch
Topic: MWRD land along the North Shore Channel will be rehabilitated with funding from the Illinois Transportation Enhancement Program.
http://evanston.patch.com/articles/evanston-receives-580-000-grant-to-rehab-the-ladd-arboretum-trail

“Governor Quinn Announces Clean Water Project to Create 2,000 Jobs and Protect Environment,” Illinois Government News Network
Topic: Illinois Clean Water Initiative will invest $250 million to update MWRD facilities, reduce flooding and clean up Chicago Area Waterways.
http://www3.illinois.gov/PressReleases/ShowPressRelease.cfm?SubjectID=2&RecNum=10917

“Quinn Initiative Funds Clean Water Project To Create Jobs,” NBC 5 Chicago
Topic: Governor awards $250 million low-interest loan to MWRD.
http://www.nbcchicago.com/blogs/ward-room/Quinn-Initiative-Funds-Clean-Water-Project-To-Create-Jobs-190710611.html

“Water district gets $250 million state loan,” Crain’s Chicago Business
Topic: State of Illinois lends $250 million to the MWRD.
http://www.chicagobusiness.com/article/20130211/BLOGS02/130219989/water-district-gets-250-million-state-loan

“Chicago clean water projects may create 2,000 jobs,” Chicago Business Journal
Topic: Governor Pat Quinn said Illinois will lend $250 million to the MWRD to improve the area’s water infrastructure; the loan could lead to creating as many as 2,000 construction jobs.
http://www.bizjournals.com/chicago/news/2013/02/12/chicago-clean-water-projects-2000-jobs.html

“Illinois water district projects to create 2,000 jobs,” Associated Press
Topic: A $250 million low-interest loan will allow the MWRD to improve public health, clean up area rivers and upgrade the region’s water infrastructure.
http://www.bnd.com/2013/02/11/2491890/water-district-projects-to-create.html

“Wastewater plant on Little Cal River to get upgrade,” Northwest Indiana Times
Topic: The MWRD Calumet Pumping Station will be among the first projects for renovation paid for by a $250 million loan from the Illinois Clean Water Initiative.
http://www.nwitimes.com/news/local/illinois/chicago/wastewater-plant-on-little-cal-river-to-get-upgrade/article_c5e9cd59-a116-5671-b301-2894b4c874a4.html

“Chicago-area waterways slated for a clean-up,” WBEZ 91.5 FM
Topic: Illinois Governor Pat Quinn announces a quarter billion dollars in funds for clean water and infrastructure in the Chicago area.
http://www.wbez.org/news/chicago-area-waterways-slated-clean-105467?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+wbez+(WBEZ+91.5fm)

“MWRD projects to create jobs, clean rivers,” Southtown Star
Topic: $250 million low-interest loan to create 2,000 construction-related jobs and support an additional 8,000 jobs.
http://southtownstar.suntimes.com/news/18165797-418/gov-mwrd-projects-to-create-jobs-clean-up-waterways.html

“Photos of February 11 Clean Water Project press conference,” Harvey S. Tillis Photography
Topic: Illinois Clean Water Initiative will invest $250 million to update MWRD facilities, reduce flooding and clean up Chicago Area Waterways.
http://yep.it/clnwater

“Lemont Water Reclamation Plant benefits from $30 million loan to improve storm water management,” My Suburban Life
Topic: The Lemont WRP will benefit from a $30 million Wet Weather Treatment Facility to help improve storm water management.
http://www.mysuburbanlife.com/2013/02/12/lemont-water-reclamation-plant-benefits-from-30-million-loan-to-improve-storm-water-management/acpb76i/

“Governor Quinn Announces Clean Water Project to Create 2,000 Jobs and Protect Environment,” Water World
Topic: Governor’s press release awarding $250 million low-interest loan to the MWRD.
http://www.waterworld.com/news/2013/02/12/governor-quinn-announces-clean-water-project-to-create-2-000-jobs-and-protect-environment.html

“Why Can’t We Start Building The World’s Deepest Building?” Forbes
Topic: Mention of the MWRD’s Tunnel and Reservoir Plan.
http://www.forbes.com/sites/quora/2013/02/11/why-cant-we-start-building-the-worlds-deepest-building/

“Purdue Job Fair welcomes more than 100 employers,” Northwest Indiana Times
Topic: MWRD’s Human Resources Department participates in Purdue’s job fair.
http://www.nwitimes.com/business/local/purdue-job-fair-welcomes-more-than-employers/article_6ef30e3a-244c-59bc-ba56-cc53e89aa880.html

“Water district projects to create 2,000 jobs,” Fox 32 News
Topic: Updated report on February 11 press conference.
http://www.myfoxchicago.com/story/21110654/water-district-projects-to-create-2000-jobs

“MWRD Engineering Staff Judge Future City Competition,” StormWater Solutions
Topic: Re-posting of MWRD press release.
http://www.estormwater.com/mwrd-engineering-staff-judge-future-city-competition

“Local Voice Community Bulletin, Feb. 11-19,” Patch.com
Topic: Relinks to MWRD press release regarding Governor’s press conference
http://westernsprings.patch.com/articles/local-voices-community-bulletin-feb-11-19

“Worldview: The sequester and the military, art and revolution in Syria, and the hazards of flushing medication,” WBEZ 91.5 FM
Topic: Commissioner Shore discusses proper disposal of pharmaceuticals along with representatives from EcoMyths Alliance and Alliance for the Great Lakes.
http://www.wbez.org/programs/worldview/2013-02-25/worldview-sequester-and-military-art-and-revolution-syria-and-hazards

“Fitch Affirms Metro Water Reclamation District of Greater Chicago, IL GOs at ‘AAA’; Outlook Stable,” Yahoo Finance
Topic: Fitch Ratings press release.
http://finance.yahoo.com/news/fitch-affirms-metro-water-reclamation-182600502.html

“Millennium Reserve partnership brings open space, jobs,” Northwest Indiana Times
Topic: MWRD is a partner in the Millennium Reserve project.
http://www.nwitimes.com/news/opinion/columnists/guest-commentary/editorial-advisory-board-millennium-reserve-partnership-brings-open-space-jobs/article_d7f04660-235a-55da-82ed-575d44c453c1.html

“Elmwood Park flood relief project work starts next month,” Elm Leaves
Topic: An Elmwood Park flood mitigation project will cost about $20 million and about $5 million will come from the MWRD.
http://elmwoodpark.suntimes.com/news/18785947-418/elmwood-park-flood-relief-project-work-starts-next-month.html

“Golden Glove Boxer receives honor,” Lawndale News
Topic: Commissioner Patrick Daley Thompson and Commissioner Frank Avila recently presented a Memorial Resolution to Bonifacio Contla in honor of Golden Gloves Champion, Johnny Lira, and the photo is featured.
http://www.lawndalenews.com/2013/02/golden-glove-boxer-receives-honor/

“Fight against Asian carp still targeting Chicago River,” Medill Reports
Topic: Governmental agencies, including the MWRD, and other organizations are working together to tackle invasive species and water quality issues.
http://news.medill.northwestern.edu/chicago/news.aspx?id=218961

“Drop Your Drugs Off,” Friends of the Chicago River
Topic: Reprint of MWRD press release.
http://mailthis.neotericdesign.com/t/ViewEmail/r/E4441BD88666598E2540EF23F30FEDED/88AAEECF4FBC4A4E981D23A7722F2DCD

“Cook County plan includes Miller Meadow dog park” Riverside-Brookfield Landmark
Topic: Cook County Forest Preserve District Recreation Master Plan includes amenities at Miller Meadow, formerly a TARP construction site.
http://www.rblandmark.com/News/Articles/3-26-2013/Cook-County-plan-includes-Miller-Meadow-dog-park/

“Metropolitan Water Reclamation District of Greater Chicago recognizes HACIA’s 34^th Annual Banquet” Hispanic American Construction Industry Association
Topic:Reposting of MWRD press release photo.
http://asoft9137.accrisoft.com/hacia/index.php?src=news&srctype=detail&category=HACIA_NEWS&refno=38

“Spyropoulos to speak to Southwest Kiwanis Club” Beverly Review
Topic: Commissioner Spyropoulos speaking about the proper disposal of pharmaceuticals at the April 16 Southwest Kiwanis Club meeting.
13 0403_Beverly Review.pdf

“Nicholas Melas, longtime MWRD president, dies at 89” Chicago Tribune
Topic: Obituary for former MWRD president.
http://www.chicagotribune.com/news/local/ct-met-melas-obit-20130410,0,4594374.story

“MWRD: Thirsty to keep water clean” Chicago Minority Business Report
Topic: Vice President McGowan and MWRD staff are highlighted in an articles about the work of the MWRD.
http://www.powellpreviews.com/ChicagoMSDC/CMBR_April2013/

“Minority Business Enterprise Input Committee 2013 Awardees” Chicago Minority Business Report
Topic: Vice President McGowan is an honoree of the Chicago Minority Supplier Development Council
http://www.powellpreviews.com/ChicagoMSDC/CMBR_April2013/

“Massive Rain Fills Deep Tunnel Flood Control System,#8221; CBS Chicago
Topic: The huge amount of rain over the past 24 hours has filled the large underground flood control system known as Deep Tunnel.
http://chicago.cbslocal.com/2013/04/18/massive-rain-fills-deep-tunnel-flood-control-system/

“Mobilizing a Flood Response,#8221;WTTW 11 Chicago
Topic: Executive Director David St. Pierre on “Chicago Tonight.”
http://chicagotonight.wttw.com/2013/04/18/mobilizing-flood-response

“Chicago Flooding,” WTTW 11 Chicago
Topic: Video of MWRD gates at Chicago River Controlling Works.
http://chicagotonight.wttw.com/2013/04/18/chicago-flooding

“Water Reclamation District: 109 miles of deep tunnel reach water capacity,” WGN 9 Chicago
Topic: MWRD’s Tunnel and Reservoir Plan prevents 2.3 billion gallons of additional flooding.
http://wgntv.com/2013/04/18/water-reclamation-district-109-miles-of-deep-tunnel-reach-water-capacity/

“Did Chicago’s Deep Tunnel help during Thursday’s flood?,” CLTV
Topic: MWRD’s Tunnel and Reservoir Plan prevents 2.3 billion gallons of additional flooding.
http://cltv.com/2013/04/18/did-chicagos-deep-tunnel-help-during-thursdays-flood/#axzz2Qv4qDECu

“Massive Rain Fills Deep Tunnel Flood Control System,” CBS 2 Chicago
Topic: MWRD’s Tunnel and Reservoir Plan prevents 2.3 billion gallons of additional flooding.
http://chicago.cbslocal.com/2013/04/18/massive-rain-fills-deep-tunnel-flood-control-system/

“Green infrastructure could give Chicago’s sewer system a break,” Medill Reports
Topic: MWRD and USACE engineering projects keep Chicago dry, however, major rains overwhelm traditional infrastructure.
http://news.medill.northwestern.edu/chicago/news.aspx?id=220373

“Update from the Metropolitan Water Reclamation District,” Westchester-il.org
Topic: Village of Westchester reposts MWRD statement.
http://www.westchester-il.org/index.aspx?NID=299

“Chicago officials announce tunnel project in neighborhood hit hard by flooding,” Associated Press
Topic: City of Chicago and MWRD moving forward with Albany Park tunnel project.
http://www.therepublic.com/view/story/b7bac2fe7594412aa2fa0c8f104c246c/IL--Spring-Flooding-Chicago

“Emanuel: Planned pipeline aims to pull plug on Northwest Side flooding,” Chicago Sun-Times
Topic: City of Chicago and MWRD moving forward with Albany Park tunnel project.
http://www.suntimes.com/news/metro/19629549-418/story.html

“Cleanup begins after record-high river levels,” Chicago Tribune
Topic: Flooding reports from around the Chicago area; City of Chicago and MWRD moving forward with Albany Park tunnel project.
http://www.chicagotribune.com/news/local/breaking/chi-cleanup-begins-after-recordhigh-river-levels-20130421,0,1440068.story

“New Albany Park Tunnel Project Will Prevent Future Flooding, City Says,” DNA Info
Topic: City of Chicago and MWRD moving forward with Albany Park tunnel project.
http://www.dnainfo.com/chicago/20130421/albany-park/new-albany-park-tunnel-project-will-prevent-future-flooding-city-says

“Metropolitan Water Reclamation District Provides Flood Protection,” Water & Wastes Digest
Topic: Reprint of MWRD press release.
http://www.wwdmag.com/metropolitan-water-reclamation-district-provides-flood-protection

“Mayor Emanuel and Metropolitan Water Reclamation District Announce Albany Park Tunnel Project Moving Forward,” Office of the Mayor, City of Chicago
Topic: Critical project designed to prevent flooding events that have occurred twice in five years.
http://www.cityofchicago.org/content/dam/city/depts/mayor/Press%20Room/Press%20Releases/2013/April/4.21.13Flood.pdf

“Albany Park pipeline getting new attention after recent flooding,” Chicago Business Journal
Topic: Albany Park Flood Control Project is expected to cost about $55 million and could be paid for with a combination of money from the MWRD, city state, and federal governments.
http://www.bizjournals.com/chicago/news/2013/04/22/albany-park-pipeline-new-attention-flood.html

“Reorganized golf association heads toward economic stability,” The Daily Northwestern
Topic: Commissioner Shore discusses the possibility of supplying effluent for irrigation.
http://dailynorthwestern.com/2013/04/22/city/reorganized-golf-association-heads-toward-economic-stability/

“MWRD sets activities for Earth Month,” The Beverly Review
Topic: MWRD promoting the value of water conservation and clean water at numerous Cook County community events during April.
http://www.beverlyreview.net/news/community_news/article_9cbe492a-ac41-11e2-9514-001a4bcf6878.html

“Prescription Take-Back event could mean cleaner water, experts say,” Medill News
Topic: MWRD to host prescription drug take back day Saturday
http://news.medill.northwestern.edu/chicago/news.aspx?id=220483

“Elgin student creates first Water Day,” Daily Herald
Topic: Commissioner Debra Shore to take part in Elgin Water Day.
http://www.dailyherald.com/article/20130426/news/704269934/

“Partners,” Chicago Symphony Orchestra
Topic: MWRD is a partner as the Chicago Symphony Orchestra celebrates the Chicago area waterways through concerts and special events.
http://csofeatures.org/rivers/partners/

“Pill round-up: MWRD wants your unused medication,” WBEZ 91.5 FM
Topic: The MWRD participates in the national drug take-back day to help cut back on water contamination by inviting Chicagoans to anonymously dispose of their unused and unwanted medication.
http://www.wbez.org/blogs/chris-bentley/2013-04/pill-round-mwrd-wants-your-unused-medication-106866

“Prescription Take-Back event could mean cleaner water, experts say,” Medill Reports
Topic: MWRD drop-off sites promoted.
http://news.medill.northwestern.edu/chicago/news.aspx?id=220483

“MWRD Officials Join Chamber on Ingredion Tour,” Chicagoland Chamber of Commerce
Topic: On Tuesday, April 23 the Chicagoland Chamber facilitated a tour of Ingredion’s Argo plant in Bedford Park for Commissioners Debra Shore and Patrick Thompson.
http://chicagolandchamber.org/wdk_cc/innovation_and_knowledge_/2013_news/2013_april/mwrd_officials_join_chamber_on_ingredion_tour.jsp

“Thompson to address group,” The Beverly Review
Topic: Commissioner Patrick Thompson to address the Men of the Castle group on Monday, May 6, regarding the proper disposal of pharmaceuticals.
http://www.beverlyreview.net/news/article_dc53a41a-b1b2-11e2-aa2a-001a4bcf6878.html

“440 pounds of unwanted medication collected,” Associated Press
Topic: Article based on MWRD press release
http://www.sfgate.com/news/science/article/440-pounds-of-unwanted-medication-collected-4481789.php
http://www.chron.com/news/science/article/440-pounds-of-unwanted-medication-collected-4481789.php
http://www.therepublic.com/view/story/7137f4cd60b34b62bfe1af7fa1b4b5e9/IL--Medication-Disposal

“05-01-13 MWRD Deep Tunnel Tour,” The Shopper Online
Topic: The Southeast Environmental Task Force and staff at the MWRD will conduct a tour of the Deep Tunnel project at the Calumet wastewater treatment plant before departing by coach bus to visit deep below the earth at the Thornton Quarry.
http://www.shoppersource.com/articles/2013/05/01/news/050113-mwrddeeptunnel.txt

“Three Chicago WWTPs collect 440 pounds of unwanted medications,” WaterWorld
Topic: Reprint of MWRD press release.
http://www.waterworld.com/articles/2013/05/mwrd-removes-440-pounds-of-medications-from-environment.html

“Water Dist. may soon make power out of poop,” Skyline (Illinois)
Topic: Commissioner Thompson speaks at Lake View Kiwanis Club.
13 0430_Skyline_Thompson.pdf

“Evanston launches expanded National Drinking Water Week celebration,” The Daily Northwestern (Illinois)
Topic: Evanston hosts second annual celebration of National Drinking Water Week; Commissioner Shore quoted.
http://dailynorthwestern.com/2013/05/06/city/evanston-launches-expanded-national-drinking-water-week-celebration/

“Commissioner calls for increased transparency at county’s water agency,” The Daily Whale
Topic: More complete project information requested at May 2 Board meeting.
http://www.dailywhale.com/articles/commissioner-calls-increased-transparency-county%E2%80%99s-water-agency

“Report: Drop money in the river, watch it float back,” WBEZ 91.5 FM (Illinois)
Topic: A new report commissioned by Friends of the Chicago River and Openlands says each dollar invested in the river provides a 70 percent return; Commissioner Debra Shore comments on the importance of green infrastructure.
http://www.wbez.org/blogs/chris-bentley/2013-05/report-drop-money-river-watch-it-float-back-107107

“Why should anyone care about Wilmette Harbor?,” Wilmette Life (Illinois)
Topic: Praise for MWRD lease awarded to Wilmette Harbor Association.
http://wilmette.suntimes.com/opinions/letters/19813326-474/why-should-anyone-care-about-wilmette-harbor.html

“Household hazardous waste collection set for June 1 at Rich South High School,” Patch.com (Illinois)
Topic: Reprint of MWRD press release on 95 community blogs.
Household hazardous waste collection set for June 1 at Rich South High School

“Urban Flooding is Chronic and Costly, but not Correlated with Floodplains,” Center for Neighborhood Technology Report
Topic: The Center for Neighborhood Technology released a report that addresses the challenges and potential solutions associated with urban flooding. They point out that the MWRD is taking steps to protect properties and encourage smarter stormwater management by developing a Watershed Management Ordinance.
www.cnt.org/water

“IIT Students Honored by Metropolitan Water Reclamation District of Greater Chicago for 2013 EPA Campus RainWorks Challenge Win,” IIT Today
Topic: MWRD Board of Commissioners issued a resolution to honor IIT students who won the US EPA’s Campus RainWorks Challenge.
http://www.iit.edu/news/iittoday/?p=15201&utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=iit-students-to-be-recognized-at-may-16th-board-meeting-of-the-mwrdgc-metropolitan-water-reclamation-district-of-greater-chicago

“Deep Tunnel update pictures,” Chicago Tribune
Topic: Photos taken during the Southeast Environmental Task Force tour of the Thornton Reservoir and Calumet WRP Friday.
http://galleries.apps.chicagotribune.com/chi-130517-deep-tunnel-update-pictures/

“Can cities keep up in bad weather?,” CNN Radio
Topic: David St. Pierre interviewed on climate change in the Chicago area.
http://cnnradio.cnn.com/2013/05/20/can-cities-keep-up-with-bad-weather/

“Reversal of Fortunes and the Chicago River,” Curbed Chicago (Illinois)
Topic: MWRD reversal of the River; more public access points than ever demonstrating a newfound enthusiasm for Chicago’s second shoreline.
http://chicago.curbed.com/archives/2013/05/21/reversal-of-fortunes-and-the-chicago-river.php

“Chicago Veggie Pride Parade June 1,” Windy City Times (Illinois)
Topic: Reprint of MWRD press release.
http://www.windycitymediagroup.com/lgbt/Chicago-Veggie-Pride-Parade-June-1-/42863.html

“Executive Director of the Metropolitan Water Reclamation District to hold Informational Meeting July 2^nd 7:15 pm,” Village of Stickney (Illinois)
Topic: David St. Pierre speaking at community meeting July 2^nd.
http://www.villageofstickney.com/index.php/4-budget/101-executive-director-of-the-metropolitan-water-reclamation-district-to-hold-informational-meeting-july-2nd-7-15pm

“New nutrient removal research presented at microbiology conference,” WaterWorld
Topic: Reprint of MWRD press release.
http://www.waterworld.com/articles/2013/05/nutrient-research-presented-by-mwrd-environmental-microbiologist.html

“South Suburban College Sustainability Committee Tours Quarry,” eNews Park Forest
Topic: Members of the South Suburban College Sustainability Committee recently participated in the MWRD Deep Tunnel & Thornton Quarry Tour during Urban Biodiversity Week.
http://www.enewspf.com/latest-news/school-news/43545-south-suburban-college-sustainability-committee-tours-quarry.html

“Efforts to plug Chicago sanitary canal get boost from Gov. Pat Quinn,” Milwaukee Journal Sentinel (Wisconsin)
Topic: Illinois Governor Pat Quinn endorses separation, suggests funding should come from the federal government.
http://www.jsonline.com/news/wisconsin/efforts-to-plug-chicago-sanitary-canal-gets-boost-from-gov-quinn-b9929572z1-210720141.html

 “South Suburban College Sustainability Committee Tours Quarry,” The Shopper Online (Illinois)
Topic: Members of the South Suburban College Sustainability Committee recently participated in the MWRD Deep Tunnel & Thornton Quarry Tour during Urban Biodiversity Week.
http://www.shoppersource.com/articles/2013/06/07/news/060513-southsuburbancollege.txt

“Deep Tunnel, shallow thinking?,” Chicago Tribune (Illinois)
Topic: Overview of efforts to minimize flooding in the Chicago area is explored; Executive Director David St. Pierre explains the need for a cultural change in thinking about water.
http://www.chicagotribune.com/news/local/ct-met-flooding-runoff-20130612,0,6431837.story

“Letter to the editor,” Chicago Tribune
Topic: Once completed, TARP reservoirs will provide massive stormwater storage and significantly reduce wastewater releases into Lake Michigan.
http://www.chicagotribune.com/news/opinion/letters/chi-more-changes-needed-to-reduce-flooding-20130613-kudrna_briefs,0,4654385.story

“Spring Target To Fill Levee 37 Gap,” Journal & Topics Newspaper
Topic: MWRD's project at Heritage Park may be completed earlier than anticipated.
http://www.journal-topics.com/news/article_10cd5ec6-d4fd-11e2-ac06-0019bb30f31a.html

“MWRD holds collection drive,” Beverly Review
MWRD commissioner Frank Avila recently participated in MWRD’s pharmaceutical collection.
http://www.beverlyreview.net/news/community_news/article_76023456-d840-11e2-bb34-001a4bcf6878.html

“Reorganized golf association heads toward economic stability,” The Daily Northwestern
Topic: One way the Evanston Wilmette Golf Course association could cut down its bills would be by using water from the North Shore Channel to irrigate its golf fields rather than relying on treated water from Evanston; the MWRD could potentially sell or provide treated wastewater.
http://dailynorthwestern.com/2013/04/22/city/reorganized-golf-association-heads-toward-economic-stability/

“Josh Ellis – Video letter to the editor re: stormwater coordination,” Metropolitan Planning Council
Topic: Metropolitan Planning Council video cites work of the MWRD in managing stormwater.
http://www.metroplanning.org/multimedia/video/690

“North Shore officials: Cooperation, information on flooding important,” Pioneer Local
Topic: MWRD’s executive director spoke at a League of Women Voters forum in Wilmette.
http://wilmette.suntimes.com/news/20859492-418/north-shore-officials-cooperation-information-on-flooding-important.html

“Flood control cooperation is forum draw,” Pioneer Local
Topic: MWRD’s executive director spoke at a League of Women Voters forum in Wilmette.
http://glencoe.suntimes.com/news/20849467-418/flood-control-cooperation-is-forum-draw.html
http://wilmette.suntimes.com/news/20849467-418/more-than-120-north-shore-residents-and-officials-filled-a-meeting-room-july-19-at.html

“Six tunnels hidden under Chicago’s Loop,” WBEZ
Topic: MWRD’s deep tunnel is one of the many tunnels under the city, and the reporter plans to take a tour in the future for another story.
http://www.wbez.org/series/curious-city/six-tunnels-hidden-under-chicago%E2%80%99s-loop-107791

“MWRD supports science fair,” Beverly Review
Topic: MWRD participated in Chicago science fair competition, and the Board of Commissioners presented resolutions to student scientists.
13 0619_Beverly Review_Science Fair.pdf

“MWRD holds collection drive,” Beverly Review
Topic: Commissioner Avila participated in the MWRD’s pharmaceutical disposal collection at Calumet WRP.
13 0619_Beverly Review_Avila_drug collection.pdf

“Thompson to address group,” Beverly Review
Topic: Commissioner Thompson addressed the Men of the Castle group.
13 0501_Beverly Review_Thompson.pdf

“O’Connor named to post,” Beverly Review
Topic: Nicholas O’Connor was named the new administrative assistant to President Meany.
13 0522_Beverly Review_OConnor_Thompson_Meany.pdf

“Water Reclamation District targets Chicago school asphalt,” Daily Whale
Topic: Agenda items brought up at the MWRD Board of Commissioners meeting on June 20 are discussed.
http://www.dailywhale.com/articles/water-reclamation-district-targets-chicago-school-asphalt

“North Shore officials: Cooperation, information on flooding important,” Wilmette Life
Topic: Wilmette and Glenview officials agreed with MWRD’s executive director who spoke at a League of Women Voters forum in Wilmette.
http://wilmette.suntimes.com/news/20859492-418/north-shore-officials-cooperation-information-on-flooding-important.html

“Register by July 10 for Calumet Water Reclamation Plant trip on August 18,” ILbirds Yahoo group
Topic: The Evanston North Shore Bird Club is co-sponsoring a tour to Calumet WRP to offer excellent views of migrant shorebirds.
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/ILbirds/message/63032

“Women voters eye stormwater solutions,” Trib Local
Topic: MWRD's executive director spoke at League of Women Voters stormwater management event
http://www.chicagotribune.com/news/local/suburbs/wilmette_kenilworth/

“Congress allocates $35M for Cook County reservoirs,” Associated Press
Topic: MWRD will receive $35 million from the federal government to complete McCook and Thornton Reservoirs.
http://www.enquirerherald.com/2013/06/26/2551231/congress-allocates-35m-for-cook.html

“Heavy rains cause Chicago area flooding,” WTTW
Topic: The role of the MWRD’s stormwater engineers in the MOB control room during yesterday’s rain event is explained.
http://chicagotonight.wttw.com/2013/06/26/heavy-rains-cause-chicago-area-flooding

"Morton Grove deluged by another major storm," Morton Grove Champion
Topic: The MWRD is building the TARP tunnels which will increase stormwater storage capacity.
http://mortongrove.suntimes.com/news/20983788-418/morton-grove-deluged-by-another-major-storm.html

"Future of water infrastructure funding to be discussed in major DC meeting," Water World Magazine
Topic: Exec. Director David St. Pierre to participate in a nationwide gathering to discuss the future of water infrastructure funding at the Eisenhower Executive Office Building in Washington, D.C., on July 1
http://www.waterworld.com/articles/2013/06/water-infrastructure-funding-to-be-discussed-by-white-house-epa-mwrd.html

“Hazardous waste collection tops 10,000 pounds,” Southtown Star
Topic: Tons of household hazardous waste products were collected during a special event coordinated by the Illinois Environmental Protection Agency, South Suburban Mayors and Managers Association, Village of Richton Park and the Rich Township High School District 227.
http://southtownstar.suntimes.com/neighborhoodstar/matteson/20939098-521/hazardous-waste-collection-tops-10000-pounds.html

“Chicago water, energy costs expected to be reduce with new partnership,” Water World Magazine
Topic: Water and energy costs across Chicago are expected to be reduced with a new partnership between the MWRD and the Public Building Commission of Chicago (PBC).
http://www.waterworld.com/articles/2013/07/water-energy-costs-to-be-reduced-with-new-partnership.html

“4 Area Mayors Huddle Once Again To Resolve Flood Levee Differences,” Journal & Topics
Topic: IDNR’s Arlan Juhl met with mayors to discuss Heritage Park, and Juhl said he would receive confirmation from the MWRD on when it anticipates work on compensatory storage at Heritage Park in Wheeling will be completed.
http://www.journal-topics.com/news/article_741fb95c-e352-11e2-b7fd-001a4bcf6878.html

“Off the record: Time for Mt. Prospect to cool down on gap issue,” Journal & Topics
Topic: Editorial encourages municipalities along the Des Plaines River to try working together to arrive at solutions to flooding and supports the MWRD's readiness to work with municipalities.
http://www.journal-topics.com/opinion/article_856d7200-e42c-11e2-8ac7-001a4bcf6878.html

“Launch announcement; BUILDING Chicago/Greening the Heartland Conference,” Wall Street Journal
Topic: The MWRD will be among the participants at a conference that offers sessions on sustainable design.
http://www.marketwatch.com/story/launch-announcement-buildingchicagogreening-the-heartland-conference-attendees-to-network-with-green-conscious-companies-2013-07-03

“Fen ecosystem in Elgin a treat and a treasure,” Chicago Tribune
Topic: A rare wetland grows on property that the MWRD previously owned.
http://www.chicagotribune.com/news/local/ct-x-0710-outdoors-fen-20130710,0,1680891.story

“MWRD dealing with rainy weather,” Beverly Review
Topic:  MWRD works to minimize flooding; Pres. Meany is quoted.
http://www.beverlyreview.net/news/community_news/article_40530a8e-e8c5-11e2-92ab-001a4bcf6878.html

“MWRD Commissioner Spyropoulos, HACIA observe sustainable achievements during Millennium Park tour,” One News Page.com
Topic: Reposting of MWRD press release.
http://www.onenewspage.us/n/US/74vxq8yre/MWRD-Commissioner-Spyropoulos-HACIA-observe-sustainable-achievements-during.htm

“MWRD Prez speaks about storm flooding,” The Regional News
Topic: Pres. Meany explained the work of the MWRD as storms hit the area on April 18.
http://www.theregionalnews.com/index.php/newsx/police/31881-mwrd-prez-speaks-about-storm-flooding

“Contamination in the Water and on the Beach Along the Lake Michigan Front,” Chicago Talks
Topic: The MWRD Board of Commissioners voted to implement disinfection technology to make sure the amount of raw sewage spilling into Lake Michigan drops.
http://www.chicagotalks.org/2013/07/11/contamination-in-the-water-and-on-the-beach-along-the-lake-michigan-front/

“Homeowners’ assistance seminar July 22,” Sun Times (Norridge)
Topic: State Rep. Robert Martwick, State Senator John Mulroe and Chicago Ald. Tim Cullerton are hosting a homeowners assistance seminar on July 22, from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. at the Austin-Irving Public Library. The MWRD will be one of the speakers to discuss programs that offer assistance flood prevention
http://norridge.suntimes.com/lifestyles/21088367-423/homeowners-assistance-seminar-july-22.html

“MWRD to hold public meetings on storm water legislation,” Daily Whale
Topic: MWRD’s public meetings to receive input on the draft watershed management ordinance are highlighted.
http://www.dailywhale.com/articles/public-meetings-flesh-out-sprawling-mwrd-storm-water-legislation

“Thornton Reservoir completion expected in less than 3 years,” Northwest Indiana Times (Indiana)
Topic: MWRD press release as story source.
http://www.nwitimes.com/news/local/illinois/thornton/thornton-reservoir-completion-expected-in-less-than-years/article_9fc8c244-7ed6-5d6c-90aa-a082c8cc45a7.html

“Water reclamation boat crew recognized for river rescue,” Marina City Online (Illinois)
Topic: MWRD press release used as story source.
http://www.marinacityonline.com/news/rescue0717.htm

“Day of Prayer celebrates environmental renewal,” The Beverly Review (Illinois)
Topic: Commissioner Frank Avila recently participated in the “Heal the River: Healing the Waters of the World” ceremony at the sixth annual Interfaith Day of Prayer held at the Cal-Sag Channel waterfall, in Blue Island. 
http://www.beverlyreview.net/news/community_news/article_2792fe70-ee45-11e2-b702-0019bb30f31a.html

“Cook County Watershed Management Ordinance,” Audubon Society, Illinois Chapter
Topic: MWRD’s Watershed Management Ordinance public meeting announcement
https://secure.sierraclub.org/site/Advocacy?cmd=display&page=UserAction&id=11593

“MWRD dealing with rainy weather,” Beverly Review (Illinois)
Topic: President Meany discussed the work of the MWRD during April flooding.
13 0710_BeverlyReview_Meany.pdf

“Day of Prayer celebrates environmental renewal,” Beverly Review (Illinois)
Topic: Commissioner Avila recently participated in the “Heal the River: Healing the Waters of the World” ceremony at the sixth annual Interfaith Day of Prayer held at the Cal-Sag Channel waterfall in Blue Island.
13 0717_Beverly Review_Heal the River.pdf

“Hearings set on tougher flood-control law,” Southtown Star (Illinois)
Topic: MWRD hosting a series of public meetings on the proposed Cook County watershed management ordinance, which aims to reduce flood damage in the county.
http://southtownstar.suntimes.com/news/21344257-418/hearings-set-on-tougher-flood-control-law.html

“MWRD Seeks Input on Watershed Management Ordinance,” CityofEvanston.org (Illinois)
Topic: The first of four meetings will be held at the Northlake Village Hall on Wednesday, July 24 from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. The purpose of the WMO is to establish uniform stormwater management regulations for Cook County.
http://www.cityofevanston.org/news/2013/07/mwrd-seeks-input-on/

“As Elsewhere, Chicago River a Tale of North, South,” 5 NBC Chicago (Illinois)
Topic: The south branch of the Chicago river requires more intense planning to make it tourist-friendly.  The MWRD has made great advances in river quality and continues to do so with the decision to disinfect at O’Brien and Calumet.
http://www.nbcchicago.com/investigations/marin-chicago-river-216535161.html

“Heritage Park flood control project end in sight,” Daily Herald
Topic: Heritage Park project is halfway completed.
http://www.dailyherald.com/article/20130723/news/707239781/

“MWRD to hold public meeting,” Beverly Review
Topic: MWRD will host public meetings to present the draft Cook County Watershed Management Ordinance (WMO) for public review.
http://www.beverlyreview.net/news/community_news/article_92efcc16-f3b3-11e2-b5f7-0019bb30f31a.html

“MWRD Seeks Input on Watershed Management Ordinance,” City of Evanston
Topic: Reprint of MWRD press release.
http://www.cityofevanston.org/news/2013/07/mwrd-seeks-input-on/

“Calm Down! Chicago is not Detroit,” Crain’s Chicago Business
Topic: Opinion piece explains how Chicago’s financial condition is not as bad as Detroit’s. It also describes how the MWRD, CTA and Chicago Park District, as special purpose districts, can manage and improve their own bottom lines, unlike these same services in Detroit.
http://www.chicagobusiness.com/article/20130726/OPINION/130729849/calm-down-chicago-is-not-detroit

“Greening Infrastructure Initiative,” Chicago Wilderness newsletter
Topic: Chicago wilderness members are encouraging members to submit comments to the MWRD’s request for public input on the Watershed Management Ordinance.
http://us4.campaign-archive2.com/?u=1d9ae98bf407acf02abdfdcd7&id=48911d4bc3&e=2090704c64

“Water reclamation district looks at ways to reduce run-off from developments that contribute to flooding,” Trib Local (Mt. Prospect)
Topic: The MWRD is accepting public comment on the draft Watershed Management Ordinance.
http://www.chicagotribune.com/news/local/suburbs/mount_prospect_prospect_heights/ct-tl-ns-0801-mwrd-ordinance--liebenson-20130729,0,4563469.story

“Wilmette residents invited to comment on watershed management ordinance,”Chicago Tribune (Illinois)
Topic: The village of Wilmette is encouraging its residents to participate in MWRD’s proposed watershed management ordinance public hearings.
http://www.chicagotribune.com/news/local/suburbs/wilmette_kenilworth/briefs/chi-jns-510170686-wilmette-20130731,0,5567259.story

“07-24-13 Blasting continues at Thornton Reservoir,” Shopper Online
Topic: Reprint of MWRD press release pertaining to ongoing work at Thornton Reservoir
http://www.shoppersource.com/articles/2013/07/31/news/072413-blastingcontinues.txt

“Recipients of the 2013 WEF Awards Announced,” Water Online
Topic: Commissioner Debra Shore will be presented the “Public Officials Award” during WEFTEC 2013, WEF’s 86th Annual Technical Exhibition and Conference, this October in Chicago, Ill.
http://www.wateronline.com/doc/recipients-of-the-wef-awards-announced-0001

“SSC makes sustainability a priority with goals,” Southtown Star (Illinois)
Topic: The South Suburban College Sustainability Committee recently participated in the MWRD’s Deep Tunnel and Thornton Quarry tour.
http://southtownstar.suntimes.com/neighborhoodstar/chicagoheights/21028398-521/ssc-makes-sustainability-a-priority-with-goals.html

“Recipients of the 2013 WEF Awards Announced,” Water Online
Topic: Commissioner Debra Shore will receive the “Public Officials Award” during WEFTEC 2013, WEF’s 86th Annual Technical Exhibition and Conference, this October in Chicago, Ill.
http://eponline.com/articles/2013/08/02/wef-2013-ward-winners.aspx

“MWRD, PBC working on savings,” Beverly Review
Topic: Summation of MWRD’s partnership with the Public Buildings Commission. Chairman of Finance Spyropoulos is quoted.
http://www.beverlyreview.net/news/community_news/article_9d7c114c-feb9-11e2-906f-0019bb30f31a.html

“New fund aims to improve Calumet, Chicago rivers,” Associated Press
Topic: A new public-private fund will begin accepting proposals for projects to improve the Calumet and Chicago rivers as part of a sweeping plan to improve quality of life and the economy in the Chicago area and northwest Indiana, partners in the effort said Wednesday.
http://www.dailyherald.com/article/20130808/business/708089937/
http://www.adn.com/2013/08/07/3012904/new-fund-aims-to-improve-calumet.html
http://www.therepublic.com/view/story/94d6cc5cf5564e4ca42731642234e1c6/IL--Chicago-Waterways-Fund
http://abclocal.go.com/wls/story?section=news/local&id=9198929
http://www.kansascity.com/2013/08/07/4395950/new-fund-aims-to-improve-calumet.html

“More green help for Chicago area waterways,” Sun Times
Topic: Summary of the new Chi-Cal Rivers Fund and preview of the MWRD’s Cook County Watershed Management Ordinance public hearings throughout the county.
http://voices.suntimes.com/early-and-often/backtalk/more-green-help-for-chicago-area-waterways/

“Village officials concerned by proposed county flood rules,” Chicago Tribune
Topic: On June 24, the MWRD unveiled an updated stormwater management ordinance proposal, and the MWRD believes it will improve stormwater drainage and detention and will also protect wetlands and riparian areas.
http://articles.chicagotribune.com/2013-08-07/news/ct-tl-0815-s-tinley-mwrd-watershed-management-ordi-20130807_1_dale-schepers-downtown-development-mwrd

“Protect Our Streams from Stormwater,” Friends of the Chicago River
Topic: Friends of the Chicago River are encouraging their supporters to let the MWRD know that they support passing the Watershed Management Ordinance by this Friday, August 9.
http://www.chicagoriver.org/get-involved/take-action/protect-our-streams-from-stormwater

“MWRD green-lights contracts for Chicago River disinfection,” Daily Whale
Topic: Plans to disinfect the Chicago River are moving forward after the MWRD Board of Commissioners signed off Thursday on a pair of contracts with companies that will install disinfection facilities for portions of the river system.
http://www.dailywhale.com/articles/mwrd-green-lights-contracts-chicago-river-disinfection

“Rubber Ducky Derby draws thousands to Chicago River,” Marina City Online
Topic: MWRD boats assisted the Special Olympic’s rubber ducky derby yesterday.
http://www.marinacityonline.com/news/ducky0809.htm

“Reversal of Fortune,” 99% Invisible Radio Show
Topic: The Reversal of the Chicago River.
http://99percentinvisible.org/post/57747785222/episode-86-reversal-of-fortune

“MWRD seeks applicants for Sustainable Landscaping & Biosolids User awards,” Water & Wastes Digest
Topic: Reprint of MWRD press release.
http://www.wwdmag.com/mwrd-seeks-applicants-sustainable-landscaping-biosolids-user-awards

“MWRD awards long awaited disinfection contracts,” Patch.com
Topic: MWRD press release is posted on numerous community blogs.
http://palatine.patch.com/groups/allison-fores-blog/p/mwrd-awards-long-awaited-disinfection-contracts

“Luxury apartments coming to Wheeling,” Daily Herald
Topic:  Wheeling is moving forward on a new 288-unit apartment complex that will cater to young commuters looking to rent luxury living. The modern apartments will be on about 20 acres at 100 and 250 Northgate Pkwy. In addition to the location, the developer was drawn to Wheeling partly because of the work of the MWRD.
http://www.dailyherald.com/article/20130819/business/708199794/

"Skokie trustees won’t ban beekeeping: Board seeks to regulate, not eliminate, backyard hives," Skokie Review
Topic: Despite recommendations for a backyard beekeeping ban by Skokie’s Health Department and village manager, Village Trustees Monday decided to try to regulate rather than prohibit the hobby. Commissioner Shore spoke at the meeting.
http://skokie.suntimes.com/news/government/beeban-SKO-08222013:article

“Glenview Park Golf Club renovations draw rapt audience,” Chicago Tribune
Topic: Golf course designers and Glenview park district staff presented plans to the public for the Glenview Park Golf Club's estimated $4.2 million renovation. The designs are 75% completed. The MWRD will review the design and construction plans, which will be submitted to the Village of Glenview and the Park Board for approval in March. Construction is scheduled to begin next summer.
http://articles.chicagotribune.com/2013-08-26/news/ct-tl-n-0829-glenview-golf-course-20130829_1_tee-boxes-doug-myslinski-golfers

“Legislators in attendance at Oakton College presentation on climate change,” Niles Herald-Spectator (Illinois)
Topic: Commissioner Debra Shore speaks to more than 100 attendees were at Oakton Community College’s Skokie Campus on August 27 for the update of the film, “An Inconvenient Truth.”
http://niles.suntimes.com/news/schools/legislators_in_attendance_at_oakton_college_presen-SKO-08292013:article

“Good News!,” Clarifier (publication of the IL Water Environment Assoc.)
Topic: Commissioner Debra Shore has been selected by the Water Environment Federation Board of Trustees as one of the 2013 recipients of the Public Official award and will receive her award in October.
Summer 2013_IWEA Clarifier_Shore.pdf

“Q+A with David St. Pierre,” Daily Whale
Topic: MWRD Executive Director St. Pierre is profiled in the Daily Whale.
http://www.dailywhale.com/features/profiles/qa-david-st-pierre

“Plant Tour,” Clarifier (publication of the IL Water Environment Assoc.)
Topic: IWEA members toured Stickney WRP on June 27.
Summer 2013_IWEA Clarifier_Tour.pdf

“Member Profile,” Clarifier (publication of the IL Water Environment Assoc.)
Topic: Retired MWRD engineer Ted Denning was profiled in the IWEA publication.
Summer 2013_IWEA Clarifier_Denning.pdf

“Army releases study of Des Plaines River flooding,” Daily Herald (Illinois)
Topic: The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers released for public comment Tuesday a study calling for spending another $13 million on projects to limit flooding damage on the Des Plaines River, with half the money coming from the federal government. The study was completed in partnership with the IDNR, Lake County Stormwater Management Commission, Cook County, MWRD and Kenosha County.
http://www.dailyherald.com/article/20130903/news/709039716/

“Oak Park village board gets updates on flood mitigation efforts,” Oak Leaves
Topic: The village of Oak Park has been taking a comprehensive look at what can be done to mitigate flood damage from major rain events. Village staff recently provided the city council with an update which includes encouraging downspout disconnections and providing financial assistance for homeowners who install overhead sewers or backflow preventers. Sewer capacity of local and the MWRD’s system was discussed.
http://oakpark.suntimes.com/news/flo_odplan-OAK-09122013:article

“Army corps releases Upper Des Plaines River and Tributaries assessment,” Rock River Times
Topic: The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers released for public comment the “Upper Des Plaines River and Tributaries, Illinois and Wisconsin Integrated Feasibility Report and Environmental Assessment” which outlines a variety of potential flood risk management and ecosystem restoration projects that could be implemented along the Upper Des Plaines River — an area that extends approximately from Racine, Wis., to Riverside, Ill. The study was completed in partnership with the Illinois Department of Natural Resources (Office of Water Resources), Lake County Stormwater Management Commission, Cook County, MWRD and Kenosha County.
http://rockrivertimes.com/2013/09/04/army-corps-releases-upper-des-plaines-river-and-tributaries-assessment/

“USA: Contract awarded for levee work in Mount Prospect,” Dredging Today
Topic: The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers awarded a $2.4 million contract on Aug. 31, 2013, to Fuel Tank Maintenance Company LLC to fill in levee gaps in Mount Prospect and Prospect Heights, Ill.  The firm-fixed-price construction contract is for work on Levee 37 that extends from Euclid Avenue to Palatine Road. The compensatory storage facility constructed by the MWRD consists of three separate storage basins near Wolf Road at Heritage Park in Wheeling and will provide the necessary 120-acre feet of storage to offset the impact of building Levee 37.
http://www.dredgingtoday.com/2013/09/10/usa-contract-awarded-for-levee-work-in-mount-prospect/

“River Forest sewer system rebuild gets green light from board,” Forest Leaves
Topic: A major rebuild and reconfiguration of the sewer system under north River Forest received informal village board approval Aug. 26, and the MWRD can expect a permit application from the Village soon.
http://riverforest.suntimes.com/news/river_forest_sewer_system_rebuild_gets_green_light-RFO-09072013:article

“Chicago Water District hires Black & Veatch to build plant,” Bloomberg News
Topic: The MWRD has selected Black & Veatch and Ostara Nutrient Recovery Technologies to design and build a new nutrient recovery system at its Stickney Water Reclamation Plant in Cicero, IL. The facility will improve water quality in local rivers, lakes and streams. It will also produce commercial fertilizer from recovered resources.
http://www.bloomberg.com/news/2013-09-12/chicago-water-district-hires-black-veatch-to-build-plant.html

“Black & Veatch and Ostara to Design-Build New Nutrient Recovery System for World's Largest Water Reclamation Plant,” Wall Street Journal
Topic: The MWRD has selected Black & Veatch and Ostara Nutrient Recovery Technologies to design and build a new nutrient recovery system at its Stickney Water Reclamation Plant in Cicero, IL. The facility will improve water quality in local rivers, lakes and streams. It will also produce commercial fertilizer from recovered resources.
http://www.marketwatch.com/story/black-veatch-and-ostara-to-design-build-new-nutrient-recovery-system-for-worlds-largest-water-reclamation-plant-2013-09-12

“MWRD, partners to break ground on major IL disinfection project,” Water World
Topic: Reprint of MWRD press release pertaining to disinfection ground-breaking.
http://www.waterworld.com/articles/2013/09/governor-quinn-mwrd-us-epa-iepa-to-break-ground-on-skokie-disinfection-project.html

“MWRD’s New Nutrient Recovery System at Stickney Water Reclamation Plant to be built by Black & Veatch and Ostara,” AZO Clean Tech News
Topic: The MWRD has selected Black & Veatch and Ostara Nutrient Recovery Technologies to design and build a new nutrient recovery system at its Stickney Water Reclamation Plant in Cicero, IL. The facility will improve water quality in local rivers, lakes and streams. It will also produce commercial fertilizer from recovered resources.
http://www.azocleantech.com/news.aspx?newsID=18930

“Best selfies on Facebook: Water Reclamation District photos,” WBEZ
Topic: MWRD posts vintage images on Facebook weekly to showcase the agency's early work.
http://www.wbez.org/blogs/lee-bey/2013-09/best-selfies-facebook-water-reclamation-district-photos-108684

“Deep tunnel project nears completion on south side,” ABC 7 Chicago
Topic:  The MWRD’s Thornton Reservoir will have its last blast on Sept. 23.
http://abclocal.go.com/wls/story?section=news/local&id=9253533

“New Skokie plant to play key role in upgrading area waterways,” Skokie Review
Topic: MWRD’s disinfection groundbreaking at the O'Brien plant, along with five photos, is featured.
http://skokie.suntimes.com/news/mwr_d-SKO-09192013:article

“Big Blast Expected at Thornton Quarry Monday; Final explosion will prepare 7.9-billion-gallon reservoir for Southland's flood control efforts,” Lemont Patch
Topic:  The MWRD’s Thornton Reservoir will have its last blast on Sept. 23.
http://lemont.patch.com/groups/politics-and-elections/p/big-blast-expected-at-thornton-quarry-monday_c1b6bcb5

“Big blast at Thornton Quarry to help relieve flooding problems,” WBBM
Topic: Last blast held at Thornton Reservoir.
http://chicago.cbslocal.com/2013/09/23/big-blast-at-thornton-quarry-to-help-relieve-flooding-problems/

“From Waste to Resource Recovery,” Water & Wastes Digest
Topic: MWRD is working to transform the Stickney WRP from a waste facility into a resource recovery facility.
http://www.wwdmag.com/waste-resource-recovery

“Serving the second city,” Water & Wastes Digest
Topic: MWRD Board President Kathleen Meany and Executive Director David St. Pierre spoke about the District’s latest initiatives and what WEFTEC.13 attendees can expect to see.
http://www.wwdmag.com/serving-second-city

“MWRD breaks ground at O’Brien WRP disinfection project,” Water & Wastes Digest
Topic: MWRD breaks ground on disinfection project at O’Brien WRP.
http://www.wwdmag.com/disinfection/mwrd-breaks-ground-o%E2%80%99brien-wrp-disinfection-project

“Blast at Thornton Quarry propels Deep Tunnel project,” Chicago Tribune
Topic: Work will create reservoir to hold billions of gallons of stormwater and sewer water overflow.
http://www.chicagotribune.com/news/local/ct-met-thornton-quarry-20130924,0,2589408.story

“Thornton Quarry operations to yield to stormwater reservoir,” Southtown Star
Topic: The Thornton Quarry will be a component of the Metropolitan MWRD’s expansive Tunnel and Reservoir Plan for flood control, better known as “Deep Tunnel,” which began in the early 1970s and won’t be completed until 2029.
http://southtownstar.suntimes.com/22749546-522/thornton-quarry-operations-to-yield-to-stormwater-reservoir.html

“Officials witness last blast at Thornton Quarry,” Northwest Indiana Times
Topic: The MWRD conducted what they called the “last blast” Monday in the southwestern corner of the north half of the Thornton Quarry.
http://www.nwitimes.com/news/local/illinois/thornton/officials-witness-last-blast-at-thornton-quarry/article_7903a332-0361-5eb1-8d3e-16b045bcd510.html

“The Last Blast,” Northwest Indiana Times
Topic: Video from the final blast at the Thornton Composite Reservoir to remove the last 36,000 tons of rock from the southwest corner of the reservoir.
http://www.nwitimes.com/digital/video/the-last-blast/youtube_537b5760-ac22-5448-97b7-5aae9275c7aa.html

“Big blast at Thornton Quarry to help relieve flooding problems,” CBS Chicago/WBBM
Topic: the last blast was held at the Thornton Reservoir.
http://chicago.cbslocal.com/2013/09/23/big-blast-at-thornton-quarry-to-help-relieve-flooding-problems/

“Cleaning up the Chicago River,” Illinois Sierra Club
Topic: The Illinois Sierra Club produced a video of the Sept. 16 groundbreaking ceremony in honor of two new disinfection facilities at the O’Brien Wastewater Reclamation Plant and Calumet Wastewater Reclamation Plant.  “Using UV technology and chlorination, these facilities will significantly reduce un-disinfected water flowing into the Chicago River and Calumet River.  Honored speakers and attendees were in high spirits to celebrate the economic and environmental gains from the project.”
http://sierraclubillinois.wordpress.com/2013/09/23/cleaning-up-the-chicago-river/

“U.S. Rep. Quigley urges federal lawmakers to take action on climate change,” Progress Illinois
Topic: Commissioner Debra Shore joined U.S. Rep. Mike Quigley to push for an urgent response to the effects of climate change.
http://progressillinois.com/quick-hits/content/2013/09/23/us-rep-quigley-urges-federal-lawmakers-take-action-climate-change

“Water District completing excavation of Thornton Reservoir to prevent flooding,” Daily Whale
Topic: The MWRD is close to completing excavation efforts on the second of three planned reservoirs under its Tunnel and Reservoir Plan.
http://www.dailywhale.com/articles/water-district-completing-excavation-thornton-reservoir-prevent-flooding

“Blast marks end of excavation, start of reservoir work in Chicago,” American Society of Civil Engineers
Topic: The MWRD is close to completing excavation efforts on the second of three planned reservoirs under its Tunnel and Reservoir Plan.
http://www2.smartbrief.com/servlet/encodeServlet?issueid=32CBA56E-82AE-4851-A2E9-BAF81966F357&sid=00cdac0c-ac25-4d2e-b442-63dc395338d1

“Video: Deep Tunnel Construction Continues With Thornton Quarry Project,” The Chicagoist
Topic: The MWRD is close to completing excavation efforts on the second of three planned reservoirs under its Tunnel and Reservoir Plan.
http://chicagoist.com/2013/09/26/video_deep_tunnel_construction_cont.php

“Blast sends limestone flying at Thornton Reservoir,” The Chicago Tribune
Topic: Video of the Last Blast.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oTXuVLA0IhM

“MP Supports Dog Park Plan,” Journal & Topics Newspapers
Topic: The Mount Prospect Park District will construct a dog park within Melas Park, MWRD property.
http://www.journal-topics.com/news/article_92484ea6-26e3-11e3-be47-0019bb30f31a.html

“Chicago Area Wastewater to Finally be Disinfected,” Sustainable Chicago: Fall 2013
Topic: The MWRD’s recent groundbreaking on the disinfection facilities at O’Brien WRP.
http://www.sustainable-chicago.com/media/2013-Fall/#/24/

“WEF - Water Environment Federation: September 30, 2013 High Profile Speakers Headline Key Events at WEFTEC 2013,” 4-Traders
Topic: President Kathleen Meany will be among the featured speakers during WEFTEC.
http://www.4-traders.com/news/WEF-Water-Environment-Federation--September-30-2013-High-Profile-Speakers-Headline-Key-Events-at--17309411/

“Krishna Pagilla and Debra Shore are national WEF Award Winners!,” IWEA Newsletter
Topic: Commissioner Debra Shore has been selected by the WEF Board of Trustees as one of the recipients of the Public Officials Award.
13 1001_IWEA_Shore.PDF

“3-Hidden Giants,” 66 Magazine
Topic: Lockport Powerhouse is featured.
13 0930_Route 66 Magazine.PDF

"Water stewardship advocate Robert Kennedy Jr among WEFTEC speakers," Filtration and Separation.com
Topic: The line-up of high profile national and international speakers have been confirmed to headline some of the most highly anticipated events of the event, the Water Environment Federation’s 86th Annual Technical Exhibition and Conference which will be held during October 5-9, 2013 at McCormick Place, Chicago. MWRD President Kathleen Meany will discuss the planned 2015 launch of the world’s largest nutrient recovery facility, which will be built at Chicago’s Stickney Wastewater Treatment Plant.
http://www.filtsep.com/view/34817/water-stewardship-advocate-robert-kennedy-jr-among-weftec-speakers/

"Public gets rare opportunity to see historic Schweikher House," Daily Herald
Topic: The public is invited to tour the Schweikher House in Schaumburg. The village of Schaumburg bought the house in 1999 from the MWRD.
http://www.dailyherald.com/article/20131001/news/710019884/photos/AR/

“10-02-13 ‘Last Blast’ at Thornton Reservoir,” The Shopper Online
Topic: Reprint of MWRD press release regarding Last Blast at Thornton Reservoir
http://www.shoppersource.com/articles/2013/10/02/news/100213-last%20blast.txt

“Stormwater Management Topic of Oct. 10 Program at The John Marshall Law School,” Digital Journal
Topic: Brendan O'Connor, MWRD principal attorney, will be participating on a stormwater management panel for members of the Environmental Law Society at The John Marshall Law School at 4:45 p.m., Oct. 10 at the law school, 315 S. Plymouth Ct., Chicago.
http://www.digitaljournal.com/pr/1504595#ixzz2gfNZFj6e

“With a Boom and a Thud and a Round of Applause, Explosives Make Chicago’s Water Safer,” Chicago Architecture Blog
Topic: Includes photos and a reprint of the press release from the Last Blast at Thornton Reservoir
http://blog.chicagoarchitecture.info/2013/10/03/with-a-boom-and-a-thud-and-a-round-of-applause-explosives-make-chicagos-water-safer/

“A tour of MWRD - MPC's most excellent adventure!,” The Connector
Topic: The Metropolitan Planning Council writes about their tour of MWRD facilities.
http://www.metroplanning.org/news-events/blog-post/6794

“Water Reclamation District to fund major flood relief project in Glenview,” Pioneer Local
Topic: The MWRD will be funding a flood control system that will help more than 1,100 single-family homes east of Harms Road in Glenview.
http://glenview.suntimes.com/news/harms-GLA-10102013:article

“10/5 Reading, Writing, and Rain Gardens,” City of Chicago Newsletter
Topic: Announcement of 2pm ribbon cutting and rain garden construction at John C. Haines Elementary School, 247 W 23rd Pl., Chicago, IL as part of WEFTEC. 
http://campaign.r20.constantcontact.com/render?llr=eyslxrcab&v=001HyWuGvOOR8hNOVNibcaCgmpgua15fKRSdxAuxCak5d7lZbPZYZynvGJdFM7d0kD9YQGEXhz1NQBRhMtzfDdkio3EPiN5zW40EfAST6q_8B8nhD5fMdccBquu3DK6BDFnaFvJHF_TUb2T54DlKnCZ3g%3D%3D

“Quarry operations to yield to stormwater reservoir,” Lake County News Sun
Topic: Continued coverage of the Last Blast at Thornton Reservoir.
http://newssun.suntimes.com/news/22755776-418/quarry-operations-to-yield-to-stormwater-reservoir.html

“Robert F. Kennedy Jr. to speak at the WEFTEC Global Center,” Water Environment Federation E-News
Topic: Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. and the MWRD are announcing a new phosphorus partnership.
http://echo4.bluehornet.com/hostedemail/email.htm?CID=24093472280&ch=16DEF000E02C1B8B860D62BDE9990342&h=dfbbd0d21bf59f43de98b32209b726a3&ei=T1zPQyA-N

“Robert F. Kennedy Jr. and Chicago’s Metropolitan Water Reclamation District Discuss Nutrient Recovery’s Crucial Role in Combating Water Pollution,” [various]
Topic: Comm. Spyropoulos, Exec. Director St. Pierre officially announce installation of Ostara's nutrient recovery technology at the MWRD's Stickney Water Reclamation Plant.
Globe Newswire:
http://globenewswire.com/news-release/2013/10/08/578949/10051714/en/Robert-F-Kennedy-Jr-and-Chicago-s-Metropolitan-Water-Reclamation-District-Discuss-Nutrient-Recovery-s-Crucial-Role-in-Combatting-Water-Pollution.html

Virtual-Strategy Magazine:
http://www.virtual-strategy.com/2013/10/08/robert-f-kennedy-jr-and-chicagos-metropolitan-water-reclamation-district-discuss-nutrient

“Robert F. Kennedy Jr. to speak at the WEFTEC Global Center,” Yahoo Finance
Topic: Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. and the MWRD are announcing a new phosphorus partnership.
http://finance.yahoo.com/news/robert-f-kennedy-jr-chicagos-144824429.html

“Water Environment Research Foundation Honors Metro Wastewater Reclamation District in Denver with Award for Excellence in Innovation,” Digital Journal
Topic: The Water Environment Research Foundation (WERF) honored the Metro Wastewater Reclamation District in Denver (Denver-MWRD) with its Award for Excellence in Innovation for advancing a new technology at their Robert W. Hite Treatment Facility. Denver-MWRD received the award for its collaboration with the MWRD to explore and evaluate a shortcut in the wastewater treatment process.
http://www.digitaljournal.com/pr/1515585#ixzz2hGVDHjLl

“New technology will turn water pollution into fertilizer,” Medill News
Topic: Robert F. Kennedy Jr. and the MWRD announced that a new technology planned for the Stickney Water Reclamation Plant will remove nutrients from wastewater and convert it into pellets to be sold as fertilizer for crops and lawns.
http://news.medill.northwestern.edu/chicago/news.aspx?id=224628

“Chicago elementary school selected for rain garden construction,” Storm Water Solutions
Topic: (Reprint of MWRD media advisory) Water professionals from throughout the U.S. congregeted in Chicago for the Water Environment Federation’s (WEF’s) 86th Annual Technical Exhibition and Conference, WEFTEC 2013. One highlight of the conference is a community service project, and this year, dozens of participants were offered the chance to spend Saturday, Oct. 5, constructing a rain garden at Haines Elementary School, 247 W. 23rd Pl., Chicago. Construction began at 9 a.m., and a ribbon-cutting ceremony was held at 2 p.m.
http://www.estormwater.com/chicago-elementary-school-selected-rain-garden-construction

“Oak Park giving over $600,000 to school districts as part of annual deal,” Oak Leaves
Topic: The MWRD will be receiving part of a $48.8 million settlement reached in 2011 after the Oak Park and River Forest High School District 200 filed a lawsuit alleging the village of Oak Park did not abide by a 2003 agreement that extended the TIF district from 2006 to 2018.
http://oakpark.suntimes.com/news/surplus-OAK-10172013:article

“Robert F. Kennedy Jr. and Chicago's Metropolitan Water Reclamation District Discuss Nutrient Recovery's Crucial Role in Combatting Water Pollution,” Globe News Wire
Topic: Reprint of MWRD/Ostara press release announcing new partnership
http://globenewswire.com/news-release/2013/10/08/578949/10051714/en/Robert-F-Kennedy-Jr-and-Chicago-s-Metropolitan-Water-Reclamation-District-Discuss-Nutrient-Recovery-s-Crucial-Role-in-Combatting-Water-Pollution.html

“In Chicagoland there is no downhill,” Metropolitan Planning Council
Topic: Commissioner Debra Shore writes about the Watershed Management Ordinance.
http://www.metroplanning.org/news-events/blog-post/6808

“New rain garden, native plantings to reduce flooding on Haines Elementary School playground,” Water World Magazine
Topic: Reprint of MWRD press release regarding rain garden construction during WEFTEC.
http://www.waterworld.com/articles/2013/10/new-rain-garden-native-plantings-to-reduce-flooding-on-haines-elementary-school-playground.html

“Engineering invites more employers to job fair,” NIU Today
Topic: The MWRD will be participating in Northern IL University’s College of Engineering and Engineering Technology job fair from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Thursday, Oct. 24, in Room 354 of the Engineering Building.
http://www.niutoday.info/2013/10/15/engineering-invites-more-employers-to-job-fair/

“Lemont Police Station wins sustainability award,” My Suburban Life
Topic: The MWRD presented a green landscaping award to the Village of Lemont for its design on the new Police Station. The new facility features green infrastructure components, including rain gardens, vegetated bio-swales to manage run-off and permeable pavers. The award was presented during the MWRD's Sustainability Summit on Sept. 26.
http://www.mysuburbanlife.com/2013/10/14/lemont-police-station-wins-sustainability-award/avri1fy/

“Chicago WWTP discovers how to harness extra energy of weir-falling water,” Water World Magazine
Topic: Reprint of MWRD press release regarding innovative pico technology.
http://www.waterworld.com/articles/2013/10/mwrd-squeezes-extra-energy-from-water-at-treatment-plant.html

“Agribusiness: Fertilizer made from polluted water,” WHOTV (Iowa)
Topic: A new technology is planned for the MWRD’s water reclamation plant in Cicero, Illinois that would remove nutrient pollution from wastewater and convert it to pellets to be sold as fertilizer for crops and lawns.
http://whotv.com/2013/10/15/agribusiness-fertilizer-made-from-polluted-water/?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+wholocalnews+(WHOtv.com+-+Iowa+headlines) 

“Legislators tour MWRD plant,” Beverly Review
Topic: President Meany hosts a tour of Stickney for State Senator Bill Cunningham and State Representative Fran Hurley.
13 0918_BeverlyReview_Meany_legislator tours.pdf

“In the Law Schools,” Chicago Daily Law Bulletin
Topic: MWRD’s Brendan O’Connor speaks at John Marshall Law School’s Environmental Law Society program on stormwater management issues and initiatives.
13 1007_ChicagoDailyLawBulletin_OConnor.pdf

“A Big Deal For Chicago Wastewater… And The Future Of Nutrient Recovery,” Water Online
Topic: Editorial by Water Online editor encouraging other wastewater treatment utilities to follow MWRD’s lead in implementing phosphorus recovery.
http://www.wateronline.com/doc/a-big-deal-for-chicago-wastewater-and-the-future-of-nutrient-recovery-0001

“WEFTEC 2013 makes history with record-setting attendance,” Pollution Solutions Online
Topic: Summary of WEFTEC 2013 includes MWRD press announcement with Robert F. Kennedy, Jr.
http://www.pollutionsolutions-online.com/news/water-wastewater/17/weftec/weftec2013_makes_history_with_record-setting_attendance/27223/

“Resident works to make Norridge sustainable,” Norridge-Harwood Heights News
Topic: Frank Avino of Norridge and his MWRD Sustainability Summit award are highlighted.
http://norridge.suntimes.com/people/avino-NOH-10182013:article

“Skokie to host national prescription drug take back program,” Lincolnwood Review
Topic: MWRD’s unwanted medicine collection is highlighted.
http://lincolnwood.suntimes.com/news/skokie_to_host_national_prescription_drug_take_bac-LWR-10222013:article

“Western Springs residents planning community garden,” My Suburban Life
Topic: Residents in the Forest Hills subdivision are hoping to turn a plot of land next to a stormwater structure into a community garden. The Fair Elms Lift Station, which pumps water into Flagg Creek during storms, is located on Fair Elms Avenue in the middle of the subdivision. The structure used to be owned by the MWRD but was given to the village several decades ago. 
http://www.mysuburbanlife.com/2013/10/16/western-springs-residents-planning-community-garden/antbk33/

“Last blast marks milestone in Thornton, IL visionary project,” Construction Equipment Guide
Topic: MWRD and Hanson Material Service celebrated the Last Blast.
http://www.constructionequipmentguide.com/Last-Blast-Marks-Milestone-in-Thorton-Ill-Visionary-Project/21438/

“LaGrange forum outlines green initiatives,” Doings LaGrange
Topic: Representatives of six villages and Lyons Township outlined green initiatives in their communities since 2008 during the How Cool Is Your Village forum sponsored by the La Grange Area League of Women Voters. A number of new efforts were reported as well, including Hinsdale’s use of MWRD biosolids in parks and athletic fields.
http://lagrange.suntimes.com/news/cool-LAG-10252013:article

“Record numbers attend WEFTEC,” World Pumps
Topic: A record number of 22,589 registrants and 971 companies participated in the Water Environment Federation’s 86th Annual Technical Exhibition and Conference. WEFTEC also served as the venue for a special announcement from environmental advocate Robert Kennedy, Jr. and the MWRD.
http://www.worldpumps.com/view/35310/record-numbers-attend-weftec/

“2013 IWEA/CSWEA Biosolids Seminar,” Illinois Water Environment Association
Topic: The MWRD will be hosting an IL Water Environment Assoc. and Central States Water Environment Assoc. biosolids seminar for industry professionals at the Stickney WRP on November 20.
http://iweasite.org/Conferences/BiosolidsSmr.html

“Glenview projects commencing to decrease flooding,” Pioneer Local
Topic: MWRD biosolids will be spread on Glenview soccer fields because the Chicago Park District and several suburban districts use them, and the biosolids stringently meet regulations under the U.S. EPA. If the biosolids work on the soccer fields, Glenview may use them on other athletic fields in the park district.
http://glenview.suntimes.com/news/gallery-GLA-10312013:article

“$6 Million Project Would Tackle Floods East Of Harms,” Journal & Topics
Topic: Glenview village trustees discussed capital project funding that would dedicate $2.5 million for flood abatement projects per year for the next five years at last night’s (Tuesday) budget workshop. An MWRD project is also in the works that would go a long way to fight flooding in the problematic East of Harms Road neighborhood on Glenview’s far east side.
http://www.journal-topics.com/news/article_8fb9255e-4199-11e3-9c5a-0019bb30f31a.html

“Revolutionary Wastewater Disinfection System – TrojanUVSigna – Selected By Greater Chicago,” Water Online
Topic: The MWRD selected TrojanUVSigna to install disinfection equipment at the O’Brien Water Reclamation Plant. Out of the top 30largest wastewater treatment plants in the United States, Chicago is the first to use UV technology.
http://www.wateronline.com/doc/revolutionary-wastewater-disinfection-trojanuvsigna-greater-chicago-0001

“Water resources, environment benefited by National Prescription Drug Take-Back Day,” WaterWorld Magazine
Topic: MWRD’s unwanted medicine collection is highlighted.
http://www.waterworld.com/articles/2013/11/mwrd-collects-231-pounds-of-unwanted-drugs-for-proper-disposal-during-national-take-back-day.html

“Loop group makes no small plans at Cal-Sag,” The Regional News
Topic: Developers presented a revitalization plan for the northeast corner of 119^th and Harlem in Palos Heights, and they plan to work with the MWRD to lease property.
http://www.theregionalnews.com/index.php/newsx/local-news/32480-loop-group-makes-no-small-plans-at-call-sag

“Chicago to Add Nutrient Recovery to Largest Plant,” Civil Engineering Magazine
Topic: In-depth look into the MWRD’s new phosphorus recovery project.
http://www.asce.org/CEMagazine/Article.aspx?id=23622328526

“MWRDGC’s Sewer Rats Places Third at WEFTEC Operations Challenge,” IWEA Newsletter
Topic: The IWEA sponsored team placed third in a division of thirty-one teams. Members John Conry, Josh Filler, Matt Jurjovec, and Miguel Vallejo competed in five events: lab, process control, collections, maintenance, and safety.  The team brought home third place trophies in two individual events also: the lab and process control test.
http://iweasite.org/index.html

“Water commissioner honored for work,” Skokie Review
Topic: Commissioner Shore recently won the Public Officials Award from the Water Environment Federation for her contributions to water improvement.
http://skokie.suntimes.com/people/shore-SKO-11072013:article

“From wastewater treatment to resource recovery,” WaterWorld Magazine
Topic: The father of phosphorus removal and recovery, Dr. James Barnard, explains how he made his important discovery; the Metropolitan Water Reclamation District of Greater Chicago will be using this process by 2015.
http://www.waterworld.com/articles/print/volume-29/issue-11/departments/viewpoint/from-wastewater-treatment-to-resource-recovery.html

“Made in Chicago,” WBBM 780 and 105.9 FM
Topic: How the District saved the city by reversing the river.
\\Mustang\Gen Admin\PUBLIC\Radio_Interview

“Fitch Rates Illinois Finance Authority’s State of IL Clean Water Initiative SRF Revs at ‘AAA’,” Rock Hill Herald (South Carolina)
Topic: Fitch Ratings assigned a 'AAA' rating to approximately $135.6 million State of Illinois clean water initiative revolving fund revenue bonds, series 2013, issued by the Illinois Finance Authority under its 2013 Master Trust Agreement (MTA). The bonds are expected to price via negotiation the week of Nov. 18. Bond proceeds will be used to fund loans to local governments for clean water and drinking water projects, to refund certain outstanding series of bonds including all of the series 2002 and 2004 Bonds (2002 MTA), and to pay for the cost of issuance.
http://www.heraldonline.com/2013/11/08/5387466/fitch-rates-illinois-finance-authoritys.html

“Park Ridge hears options for biggest flood relief projects,” Trib Local Park Ridge
Topic: Park Ridge residents afflicted by flooding during the last several years learned about options to alleviate flooding in the Mayfield Estates, Northwest Park, and Park Ridge Country Club neighborhoods, with price tags ranging from just over $1 million to almost $49 million. One option would install a powerful pump station on Elliott and adding a new 36-inch stormwater sewer that could tie into the planned storm sewer that the MWRD will build beneath Dempster Street in 2015.
http://www.chicagotribune.com/news/local/suburbs/park_ridge_niles/ct-tl-park-ridge-committee-of-whole-1111-20131114,0,1561255.story

MWRD creates online historical database about beginnings," Water World Magazine
Topic: MWRD offers trip back in time through new database.
http://www.waterworld.com/articles/2013/11/mwrd-offers-trip-back-in-time-through-new-database.html

"Arab engineers group presents public service award," Suburban Life
Topic: Commissioner Mariyana Spyropoulos was awarded the Public Service Award by the Arab American Association of Engineers & Architects at its annual awards dinner Nov. 13 in Oak Brook.
http://www.mysuburbanlife.com/2013/11/14/arab-engineers-group-presents-public-service-award/aae0499/

“Illinois taps squeaky clean water bonds,” Crain’s Chicago Business
Topic: Taxpayers will save money as the MWRD takes advantage of low interest loans negotiated by the Illinois Finance Authority.
http://www.chicagobusiness.com/article/20131118/NEWS02/131119815/illinois-taps-squeaky-clean-water-bonds#

“Building projects fuel 2014 Glenview budget,” Glenview Announcements (Sun Times)
Topic: Several major building projects and other revenues will fuel the 2014 village plan in Glenview without increasing property taxes. Revenues in sales and utility taxes will slightly grow, and a significant increase in building permits is expected. Despite the recent economic fallback, Glenview was able to invest in flood control and road projects, one of which is a partnership with the MWRD, which is expected to provide $6.5 million for the project and is due to start construction next year. Work will remove regional stormwater from the local system and provide new detention east of Harms Road.
http://glenview.suntimes.com/news/bud_get-GLA-11282013:article

“Building developments bolster Glenview’s 2014 budget,” Glenview Announcements
Summary: Improvements east of Harms Road and the Middle Stem of the North Branch of the Chicago River will remove regional storm water from the local system and provide new detention. The MWRD is expected to provide $6.5 million for the projects, due to start construction next year.
http://glenview.suntimes.com/news/bud_get-GLA-12052013:article

“Argonne and MWRD Participating in Chicago River Microbe Study,” Suburban Life Media
Summary: Scientists from the U.S. Department of Energy’s Argonne National Laboratory are partnering with the Metropolitan Water Reclamation District of Greater Chicago (MWRD) to research the microbial content in Chicago-area waterways. The agencies will be measuring and recording changes in microbial communities as the MWRD begins disinfecting its secondary treated water at the O’Brien and Calumet Water Reclamation Plants and as parts of the Tunnel and Reservoir Plan—the Thornton reservoir and the McCook reservoir—are completed. The study will take seven years; samples taken in 2013 and 2014 will serve as a baseline, and more will be collected until 2019. For more information, visit the Argonne National Laboratory website.
http://www.mysuburbanlife.com/2013/12/02/argonne-participating-in-chicago-water-microbe-study/ag93zcx/

“Chicago River Microbe Population Analyzed in New Partnership,” Water World
Summary: The U.S. Department of Energy's Argonne National Laboratory and the MWRD will soon conduct research on microbial content in Chicago-area waterways. The agencies’ co-sponsored plan will measure and record changes in microbial communities as the MWRD starts to disinfect its secondary treated water at the O'Brien and Calumet Water Reclamation Plants and as parts of the Tunnel and Reservoir Plan—the Thornton reservoir and the first phase of the McCook reservoir—are completed.
http://www.waterworld.com/articles/2013/11/chicago-river-microbe-population-studied-in-new-partnership.html

“Rock Blasting to Begin Soon at Lemont Water Reclamation Plant,” Lemont Patch
Summary: Rock blasting operations will be starting in December 2013 at the Lemont Water Reclamation Plant in Lemont, IL. Staff at the plant will issue warning sirens and then nearby residents and businesses will experience blasting reverberations. The blasting sets in motion work on a $30 million Wet Weather Treatment Facility project to improve storm water management. The project is part of ongoing upgrades to the region’s waste-water treatment facilities’ infrastructure.
http://lemont.patch.com/groups/around-town/p/rock-blasting-to-begin-soon-at-lemont-water-reclamation-plant

“Chicago water under the microscope,” Phys.Org
Summary: The U.S. Department of Energy's Argonne National Laboratory and the MWRD will soon conduct research on microbial content in Chicago-area waterways. The agencies’ co-sponsored plan will measure and record changes in microbial communities as the MWRD starts to disinfect its secondary treated water at the O'Brien and Calumet Water Reclamation Plants and as parts of the Tunnel and Reservoir Plan—the Thornton reservoir and the first phase of the McCook reservoir—are completed.
http://phys.org/news/2013-12-chicago-microscope.html

“The Grid: The Stickney Water Reclamation Plant,” Gapers Block
Summary: The Stickney Water Reclamation Plant is profiled through a video tour. The video links to the MWRD website.
http://gapersblock.com/thegrid/2013/12/02/stickney-water-reclamation-plant/index.php

“WEFTEC 2013 Highlights,” Clarifier
Summary: At the recent annual WEFTEC conference held in Chicago sponsored by the Illinois Water Environment Federation, MWRD Commissioner Debra Shore received WEF’s Public Official award. Also of note were the MWRD Sewer Rats, third-place winners of WEFTEC’s Operations Challenge.
Fall 2013 Clarifier_WEFTEC review.pdf

“Civic Federation’s Report Praises MWRD Budget,” Civic Federation
Summary: In its report Metropolitan Water Reclamation District FY2014 Tentative Budget: Analysis and Recommendations, the Civic Federation applauded the District’s responsible pension fund practices and fiscally sound operations: “The Federation commends the MWRD for continuing to use long-term financial planning to guide its operations and future projects. We also commend the District for adhering to its fund balance policy and maintaining substantial reserves in its Corporate Fund fund balance.” Sarah Wetmore, vice president and research director of the nonpartisan, government research organization attended the District’s public hearing on December 11 and provided a recap of the Federation’s analysis of the MWRD’s $1.2 billion tentative budget.
http://www.civicfed.org/civic-federation/publications/MWRD_FY14_BudgetAnalysis

“MBBR System Upcoming at Egan Plant—A First for MWRD and Illinois,” WaterWorld
Summary: A new moving bed biofilm reactor (MBBR) system is set to be installed at the MWRD’s Egan Water Reclamation Plant in Schaumburg, IL. The system is the first of its kind to be implemented in the state. The MWRD awarded a contract to Kruger, a subsidiary of Veolia Water Solutions & Technologies, to improve treatment of centrate streams between WRPs in the region and to substantively reduce costs incurred in biosolids management. Currently, the Egan plant dewaters the biosolids from both the Egan and Kirie WRPs, producing a centrate stream with high ammonia concentrations. According to Kruger, the MBBR system will remove 75 percent of the ammonia and 65 percent of the total nitrogen in water reclamation processes. With a large percentage of nitrogen removed by the new system, effluent can be returned to the mainstream treatment process at Egan. This provides the MWRD with an ideal solution that treats waste streams resourcefully while lowering operating costs at the same time.
http://www.waterworld.com/articles/2013/12/first-anita-mox-moving-bed-biofilm-reactor-mbbr-system-installed-in-il.html

“Kruger Presents ANITA™ Mox MBBR In Chicago: The First Of Its Kind,” Water Online
Summary: A new moving bed biofilm reactor (MBBR) system is set to be installed at the MWRD’s Egan Water Reclamation Plant in Schaumburg, IL. The system is the first of its kind to be implemented in the state. The MWRD awarded a contract to Kruger, a subsidiary of Veolia Water Solutions & Technologies, to improve treatment of centrate streams between WRPs in the region and to substantively reduce costs incurred in biosolids management. Currently, the Egan plant dewaters the biosolids from both the Egan and Kirie WRPs, producing a centrate stream with high ammonia concentrations. According to Kruger, the MBBR system will remove 75 percent of the ammonia and 65 percent of the total nitrogen in water reclamation processes. With a large percentage of nitrogen removed by the new system, effluent can be returned to the mainstream treatment process at Egan. This provides the MWRD with an ideal solution that treats waste streams resourcefully while lowering operating costs at the same time.
http://www.wateronline.com/doc/kruger-presents-anita-mox-mbbr-in-chicago-the-first-of-its-kind-0001

“Officials Witness ‘Last Blast’ at Thornton Quarry,” Northwest Indiana Times (IN)
Summary: Reprint of September 23, 2013 Thornton Reservoir blast article is featured on Public Works Magazine website.
http://www.pwmag.com/business/video-ka-boom-worlds-largest-stormwater-reservoir-prepares-for-2015-debut.aspx?utm_source=newsletter&utm_content=jump&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=PWBU_122513&day=2013-12-25

“Alderman Sayad Believes MWRD Has Sniffed Out Odor Problem,” Journal & Topics
Summary: At a meeting held on December 18, 2013 at the Frisbie Senior Center, Des Plaines, IL Ald. Dick Sayad thinks the 14-year-old problem of unusually strong odors in the area of Golf and Mt. Prospect Roads may soon be licked. Sayad and approximately 40 residents were told by the MWRD that the issue of foul odors might stem from a sewer problem to the north in the vicinity of Kensington and Central Roads.
http://www.journal-topics.com/news/article_37b96380-6cc0-11e3-b05b-0019bb30f31a.html

“2013 in review: From leases to beaches, lakefront was on several agendas,” Wilmette Life
Summary: Wilmette’s waterfront location generated several stories in 2013, including the MWRD’s lease of the Wilmette Harbor.
http://wilmette.suntimes.com/news/yelakefr-WIL-12262013:article

“Construction Begins On Disinfection Facilities at Two Chicago Treatment Plants,” Civil Engineering Magazine
Summary: Construction of disinfection facilities at both the O’Brien and Calumet WRPs marks a milestone in efforts to improve water quality within the roughly 100 miles of canals and modified streams that make up the Chicago Area Waterway System.
13 1227_Civil Engineering_Disinfection.pdf

“The Top Stories in the South Suburbs,” NWI Times
Summary: The MWRD’s “Last Blast” explosion at the Thornton Composite Reservoir in September 2013 is named as one of the top stories of the year in the south suburbs.
http://www.nwitimes.com/news/local/illinois/calumet-city/the-top-stories-in-the-south-suburbs-for/article_39adbf76-9d5b-5495-bb40-79010df54d22.html